Convert mini-dv & Digital 8 tapes to You Tube and Flash drives

[jstevens30]

I have many mini-dv tapes and Digital 8 tapes that I’d like to convert to my YouTube channel and Flash drives for future restoration. What is the best way to go about doing this? I have a Dell Laptop PC that has an HDMI connection but no firewire connection. I am willing to get a new PC but not sure what is the best way? Please let me know your ideas as this is my goal for 2023.

[Bwaak]

You know the right answer: you need Firewire or at least Thunderbolt. On a Windows PC you can have Thunderbolt 3, and it is proven to work with DV and HDV camcorders through a series of dongles (the dongles are expensive). But native Firewire would be better. You can get a refurbished Windows PC in a late-2000s configuration for about $150, just add a Firewire card for $10 and you are good.

[jagabo]

Be sure to get a Firewire card based on the Texas Instruments chip. Those usually cost around US$30. Cards with other Firewire chips often don't work with video.