mini dv to pc

[JonFC]

I inherited a Canon XL2 that uses firewire to transfer. However, my HP Touchsmart 300 doesn't have a firewire port and it can't be added. Does anybody have any recomendations to get the files onto the pc? I've considered a portable hard drive w/ firewire. will that work? Anything cheaper or easier, or both?

[Selur]

I've considered a portable hard drive w/ firewire.

Nope.
But when googling for 'Canon XL2 USB' and looking at the results, it sound like buying a cable like:

For the Canon XL2 Camcorder: Digital Camera Data Cable USB 2.0 Olympus CB-USB4, Nikon UC-E4, Kodak U-5A, Canon IFC-300PCU,IFC-400PCU ,Sony VMC-14UMB2,Pentax I-USB6,SAMSUNG AH39-00498AG)for you to use to connect your digital device to your laptop, PC computer to transfer photos and other files that support by the digital device.
With the charging function, you can also charge your digital device via a USB port.
The USB2.0 certified cable supports data transfer rates up to 480 Mbps and are fully backwards compatible with all USB 1.0 and 1.1 devices.
Easy to use, plug and play. Or refer to your digital device provide to get the available software.

source: http://www.cellularfactory.com/camcorder/CANON/4/35617/306480/
is probably the easiest solution.

[JonFC]

I have been told that a firewire to usb doesn't work.

[Selur]

4$ for a cable might be worth a try,.... (if you got an electronic store not too far from your place you could ask them if the let you try the cable before you buy it,..)
other than that you would probably need something like a 'Moviebox' from Pinnacle, afaik these should allow to connect DV Cams to it and copy the content to a pc,..

[julitomg]

4$ for a cable might be worth a try,.... (if you got an electronic store not too far from your place you could ask them if the let you try the cable before you buy it,..)

I don´t think it will be worth it. JonFC is correct, simple USB to firewire adapter/cables just won´t work (not for transfering DV camcorder video anyway)
I don´t know if there are many other choices but this one does work, I have used it succesfully for such a task:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/681351-REG/Pinnacle_8230_10068_41_Studio_Moviebo...ollection.html

[JonFC]

The moviebox is a great idea. That is an all around solution for me. Thanks

[JonFC]

Just wanted to let you know that the Pinnacle MovieBox works great. It was easy to install, computer detects the camera, and imports film quickly. Thanks for help.

[smrpix]

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