Transferring digital video from a camcorder to a computer is a simple process. You must use a computer program to "capture" the footage. Capturing is done in real time, meaning that the video footage will play at normal speed and be recorded by your computer. The method in which you do this depends on what type of computer you have, and what type of digital camcorder you are trying to connect to it.
Instructions
1. Connect your digital camcorder to your computer. This is often accomplished through an included USB or FireWire link cable. One end of the cable plugs into the appropriate input on your digital camcorder, while the other plugs directly into your computer.
2. Open your digital video management software. If you're using Microsoft's Windows operating system, a program called "Windows Movie Maker" comes pre-installed. It is accessible through the "Programs" menu. If you're using a Mac, iMovie comes pre-installed. There are also a number of pay programs you can purchase, like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro, which are all capable of capturing video.
3. Make sure that your digital camcorder is on and is in "Review" mode. This is the mode you would put the camera in to review footage on the camcorder's built-in screen.
4. Rewind the tape in the camcorder to the beginning.
5. Select the "Capture" option in whatever digital video management software you are using. This will cause the tape in the camcorder to begin to play, at which point it will be recorded to your computer in the form of a computer file. Let the tape play all the way to the end to make sure that you capture all of the footage.
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