Rookie DV to computer to DVD questions

[rjack]

Quick questions from the rookie that just purchased Roxio Easy VHS to DVD (blue box):

I am downloading movies from both hi8 and miniDV camcorders using S-video and composite audio cables. Video is ok. Having to start and stop recording because I don't think Roxio has editing.

Both cameras have a DV port (4 pin). Do the make a fire wire cable that has a DV on one end and USB on the other that can I plug directly into the computer? If so will that give me a better picture? Or am I getting a digital video signal already through the S video?

I could only find fire wire that has 6 pin to 4 pin. My computer does not have a 6 pin plug.

Thanks - Rookie

[edDV]

Quick questions from the rookie that just purchased Roxio Easy VHS to DVD (blue box):

I am downloading movies from both hi8 and miniDV camcorders using S-video and composite audio cables. Video is ok. Having to start and stop recording because I don't think Roxio has editing.

Both cameras have a DV port (4 pin). Do the make a fire wire cable that has a DV on one end and USB on the other that can I plug directly into the computer? If so will that give me a better picture? Or am I getting a digital video signal already through the S video?

I could only find fire wire that has 6 pin to 4 pin. My computer does not have a 6 pin plug.

Thanks - Rookie

You should be using the IEEE-1394 connection.You don't need the blue box.

If you don't have an IEEE-1394 port on your computer add one on a PCI or PC card.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&DEPA=0&Order=BESTMATCH&Descr...tion=IEEE-1394

[rjack]

Thanks edDV. So the S cable I am currently using is not digital video? Both cameras say digital. If not....

if I purchase the IEEE, I will then have a better picture (and digital)?

[edDV]

Thanks edDV. So the S cable I am currently using is not digital video? Both cameras say digital. If not....

if I purchase the IEEE, I will then have a better picture (and digital)?

S-Video is an analog NTSC connection. IEEE-1394 gets you a quality digital connection.

For MiniDV, you get an exact first generation copy to the computer of the data on the tape.

[rjack]

Got it. Last question. If I don't need the "blue box", what do I use to edit video after I download video to computer? I don't need anything expensive or with bells and whistles. The Roxio "blue box" doesn't allow for much mid-stream/mid-tape editing.

[JohnnyMalaria]

For no frills, start with Windows Movie Maker since you already have it. It can do the capture for you, too.

On XP, you can find it at:

Start Menu\All Programs\Windows Movie Maker

I use it when I need to do something fairly simple really quickly.