How to connect FireWire devices into a Windows PC with Thunderbolt 3/USB-C

In this video, I show the few options you have to connect older FireWire 400/800 devices to a Windows PC that has a Thunderbolt 3/USB-C port. These devices could be a video camera/camcorder, audio mixer, audio interface, etc. Below are time stamps and links to the hardware and software you'll need.
If you have Windows 11 or Thunderbolt 4, the process in this video may not work. In that case, please see my updated video here: • How to capture DV & HD...
Time Stamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:40 - Why not USB
02:20 - What you'll need
04:06 - How to connect
05:00 - Drivers
05:40 - Demo
07:12 - Capturing the video
08:10 - Software
09:42 - Wrap up
10:28 - End
Links to the items mentioned in the video:
Apple Thunderbolt 3 and 4 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 1 and 2 Adapter:
amzn.to/2O6rB10
Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire adapter: (if unavailable, watch • How to use FireWire WI... for more info)
amzn.to/2W0FX68
FireWire 800 to 400 mini plug cable:
amzn.to/2TCSGz1
FireWire 400 to 800 cable:
amzn.to/2UE0XiO
FireWire 400 to 800 adapter:
amzn.to/2u518Ih
FireWire 400 mini to 400 mini cable:
amzn.to/3uci1Av
FireWire 400 mini to 400 full size adapter:
amzn.to/3FTI2tS
Have a desktop with a PCI/PCIe card slot, or a laptop with a ExpressCard/PCMCIA card slot:
amzn.to/3DGUBq9
Laptops with Thunderbolt/FireWire:
amzn.to/3JpAw8M
Other items I recommend:
www.amazon.com...
(note the links above are affiliate links that help support my channel. Your price stays the same but a small commission may come back to me if you decide to purchase anything using my links. It's a win-win for everyone!)
Software Mentioned:
WinDV: www.videohelp....
HDV Split: www.videohelp....
Windows Movie Maker: movies.blaines...
ffdshow: ffdshow-tryout....
ffmpeg: ffmpeg.org/
VLC Player: www.videolan.o...
Handbreak: handbrake.fr/
OBS Studio: obsproject.com...
Other videos that may help you:
How to connect a FireWire Audio Interface to a Mac or PC with Thunderbolt 3/USB-C
• How to connect a FireW...
How to connect FireWire devices into new Mac's with Thunderbolt 3/USB-C
• How to connect FireWir...
How to connect FireWire devices to a new M1 Mac with Apple Silicon
• How to connect FireWir...
How to capture DV & HDV video tapes on a Windows 11 PC using FireWire to Thunderbolt/USB-C
• How to capture DV & HD...
Troubleshooting
If you are having issues with your PC connecting to the device, there are a few things you can try.
1. Ensure your PC has a Thunderbolt port (not just a USB-C/charging port). Visit the support page of your computer (support.dell.com, support.lenovo.com, etc) and verify that your drivers are up to date. Sometimes the Thunderbolt driver is separate and needs to be installed manually. Also check that your BIOS is up to date. If you're getting blue screens when you plug in, this is the solution.
2. Check the settings in your BIOS as there may be a setting in there to allow data over the Thunderbolt port. Here is an example link that shows the settings: www.dell.com/s... There is also usually an app within Windows called the "Thunderbolt(TM) Software " and make sure it is set to "Always Allow" like this: www.caldigit.c...
3. If your device still does not communicate, then you may need to install a driver for the camcorder, audio interface, or whatever device you are trying to connect. If a driver can not be found, then your device may be too old and no longer compatible with newer operating systems like Windows 10. Here is a good webpage that may help you troubleshoot FireWire specific drivers: www.studio1pro... Additionally if you installed a special FireWire driver you may want to uninstall it and try the built in Windows driver as that may be all you need. You can also try installing a legacy FireWire driver by following these directions: www.startech.c...
4. For video cameras, here is a good guide from Sony which has a few other troubleshooting steps: www.sony.co.uk...

[@jayrayone7393]

Just want to say that this still works in 2022. I’ve successfully connected my M-Audio FireWire 1814 using this method..!! Thanks..!!

[@cupofsun]

I’m trying to do a M-Audio Profire 2626, praying this works too!

[@jayrayone7393]

@@cupofsun It should..!!

[@neovincibeats]

Man I think my laptop can't do this

[@gregormarszalkowski5436]

Worked on windows 10 ?

[@jayrayone7393]

@@gregormarszalkowski5436 Yes it does..

[@DavidGuggenheim]

Scott - Thank you and well done. In the end I was successful but not before nearly giving up due to a Thunderbolt 3 Windows issue. My camera (Sony HVR-A1U) appeared to connect successfully but no software (WinDV, HDV Split, Adobe Premiere) recognized it. I almost gave up. The solution was to run the Thunderbolt Software (just click Start, Thunderbolt); if you have Thunderbolt 3 you'll have the software on your PC. The software displays device(s) connected via Thunderbolt 3. My camcorder was listed but with the message, "The Thunderbolt device you are using is not certified for PC use." The fix was to (1) Run the Thunderbolt Software; (2) In the system tray, right-click the Thunderbolt icon (3) Click Settings (4) Clear the checkbox that says "Only allow Thunderbolt Devices that have been certified for PC."

[@ScottSchramm]

Thanks for providing the detailed solution which fixed your problem. I know some other people had similar problems and your solution sounds like the correct fix.

[@Snafu4WD]

Yep that worked for me, Thank you very much. Sony HDR-TD20V Camera, HP ZBook Studio G5, Windows 10. I also installed the 1394_OHCI_LegacyDriver but no evidence of it actually being installed. Adobe Premiere 2019 can see it but not control the camera, But WinDV can control the camera and preview the video as it comes in. Works great. (I do also have an old Win7 Laptop with a firewire port for a backup).

[@richardgraham2248]

In WIndows 11 the Thunderbolt Control Center app has a setting for connected devices that appears to default to 'Do Not Connect'. Changing this to 'Always connect' results in Pinnacle Studio being able to capture video data from my Canon GL2 MiniDV digital camcorder.

[@bengtforsberg9116]

The videos inspired me to save all my DV-tapes on my Windows 11 PC and DVD's. Bought the Apple devices, connector and cable. Didn't work with the suggested software but I decided to check further and found that I had to install the drivers for my Thunderbolt 3/USB-C port, just Googled Thunderbolt and found the drivers. After installing the drivers my Sony DCR-HC96 was detected by the PC and WIN-DV. I was also pleased to see that my old Adobe Premiere Pro CS3 found the camera and that I could control the camera from within Premiere Pro, Thank you for inspiring me!.

[@saxfantastic9925]

This is the only KZbin video I have found that enables me to go out and purchase exactly the cables and adapters to transfer mini DV tape from my Sony P120 cam to my Lenovo P1 laptop. I’ve removed the four pin to 6 pin adapter and gone straight for the four pin to FireWire 800 cable plus the two Apple adapters. Seriously hoping that this works !

[@avanmeijgaarden]

Did it work? I was thinking of doing the same.

[@saxfantastic9925]

@@avanmeijgaarden It did ! I have the 2 Apple adapters and the one Firewire 800 to 400 cable and have been able to control my old camcorder from within Adobe Premiere Pro. Very happy :-)

[@psychoprof1966]

@@saxfantastic9925 I know I'm replying 9 months after your post, but this is very helpful as I came to the same conclusion viewing Scott's video. I will proceed to purchase just the three cables/adapters. Thank you!

[@saxfantastic9925]

@@psychoprof1966 It all worked perfectly and im so happy with the solution

[@ThomasTomchak]

Awesome. You just answered a question I've been struggling with for weeks. Nicely done and I'm more than happy to use your affiliate links.

[@cottonbomb8272]

I am a long time M-audio 610 user, which is a solid soundcard that ended selling at 2013. It uses 1394A the 6pin one. Its such a powerful yet compact soundcard with 24bit-192khz HiRes DSP mixing with 6in10out which is kinda crazy. Nowadays their newest similar product is M-Track Duo, which has only 48Khz, 2-channel USB Audio Interface with 2 Combo Inputs. I can't believe they are stepping back on the product capability, its unreal. Anyway, your video saved my 610 so now I dont need to buy another worse product just for that USB connection. Cheers

[@billrooney9465]

Like a previous commenter, I wanted to confirm that this process works in Feb 2024. Thanks! I was able to purchase a reconditioned camcorder of the same brand that I had. My touchscreen was broken, so I was able to buy a camera on eBay and use my existing cables. Cost was a little over $100. I also purchase a PCI FireWire card that was recommended in this video. Since I already had a FireWire cable, I didn’t need the special Apple to Thunderbolt connection shown in the video. I have a pretty old PC running Windows 10 Home, but it recognized the FireWire card immediately and works great. WinDV works great and it actually split my miniDV tape into a bunch of individual files, using the dates that were initially recorded, making it a lot easier to edit them together. (So a tape from Christmas 2006 was labeled 06-12-25, with additional numbers added since I had multiple clips on the same day.) I then processed the AVI files into MP4s using Handbrake, which worked like a charm. And I also followed the advice to use the VLC player, which easily opens the AVI and MP4 files as well as many more formats. Once I was able to digitize the tapes, I used Microsoft’s free video editing software, ClipChamp, which seems to be the successor to Moviemaker, which I used back in the day. Thanks again for posting this!

[@ScottSchramm]

Awesome! Thanks for taking the time to post about your success!

[@thefullenergychannel2879]

i connected my hdv camcorder but my laptop isn't picking it up i have all the cables mentioned above as can not understand why it doesn't work

[@aycahatipoglu5531]

you just prevented me from wasting money on a solution that would not have worked, so thank you good sir

[@aycahatipoglu5531]

update for anyone who is in the same predicament that I find myself in. i need to connect a dinosaur scanner to a new windows PC. the new PC only has a USB C 3.1 Gen2 port which thanks to Scott we know is incompatible with firewire since its not a thunderbolt port. replacing PC or scanner would cost thousands of dollars since we have to do this for 8 machines. however if you are using a desktop they do have slots to add ports in the back. I have ordered a PCIe connected firewire port thingymajig. When it arrives I will test and update here on whether this is a valid solution or not. New laptops, both windows and mac, often have thunderbolt ports so this is really for if you have to connect device to a desktop.

[@willsvideos5742]

Can confirm this works with my Sony DCR-TRV250E, filming on Digital 8. I connected it with WinDV and it is fully recognised. Plug and Play, didn't seem to have any driver issues. HDVSplit didn't recognise the camera, but that could be because it is DV standard and not HDV. Opened it in WinDV and no issues whatsoever. Time to Transfer my tapes - properly! Thank you again for such a thorough and easy to follow video.

[@starsdealer3473]

Hey man i wanna ask a question ,i have sony dcr hc 36 ,is that camera have a same thing like in this video for transferring the file

[@willsvideos5742]

@@starsdealer3473 Yes, from what I can Google, that camera is MiniDV. Meaning it captures digital video (similar to our phones recording) and saves it to tape. I'm pretty sure that model will follow the same process as this video. You should have a square little output plug. My outlet has 'DV' above it on my camera and a lowercase 'i' next to it. Sony referred to FireWire as 'iLink'.

[@starsdealer3473]

@@willsvideos5742 thxyou man for answering

[@ronstewtsaw]

Scott, I spent hours going through videos that were either Mac-centric or assumed my PC was old enough that I could install a PCI capture board. Thank you for this. I got the Apple products from Craigslist to save a pile of money, so I'm sorry that I didn't use your affiliate link. My camera is an Canon HV30, and my PC, a brand new Windows 10 desktop with a Thunderbolt 3 port. At first the computer complained a lot about the adapters, and it wouldn't recognise the camera. Finally, I did a clean boot, waited a couple of minutes, plugged in the first Thunderbolt adapter (TB3 to TB2), waited a minute, plugged in the second Thunderbolt adapter (TB2 to FW800), and then the rest of the adapters and wires. Then I turned on the camera, and it was recognised. WOOO WOOO WOOOOOOO! Scenalyzer could control my camera, but it couldn't recognise the video output. Premiere Pro could capture, but could not show a preview while capturing, and the software documentation acknowledges this. HDV Split (demoed in this video) would not show a preview like it does in your video. I decided that I was not going to waste any more time with codecs, as long as the captured files would play, which they do. I recommend getting a head cleaning tape and using it first (10 seconds only!), if your camera has been sitting around for years. Thank you very much for this video, Sott!

[@ScottSchramm]

Awesome, I'm glad this video helped you!

[@andrewclarke9467]

​@@ScottSchramm Hi thanks for your videos...... my laptop only has USB Super Speed. Is this port no good ? Thanks for any info

[@ScottSchramm]

@@andrewclarke9467 No, that will not work with FireWire. Check my newer videos for some alternatives.

[@andrewclarke9467]

​@@ScottSchramm thanks I will have a look through 👍🏻

[@chriseasley3499]

Thank you! Worked for me after your tip of updating the thunderbolt drivers for my Dell laptop. Using 4 pin to 9 pin firewire cable from my Sony DCR-PC100 Mini DV Camcorder to the two Apple Thunderbolt adapters into the USB-C Thunderport port on my Dell laptop. Using Win DV software to capture into .avi files. Currently on my 10th Mini DV Tape!

[@jampstudios3314]

Finally someone shows The cables and type of connections! Ty! Thats what i need! The problem is that stuff is só expensive ( The adaptors)

[@HansEisenman]

If this works, I may put you in my will. Seriously, I have been fumbling around trying to figure this out myself and then found your awesome video. Super well organized and gets right to it. Will take me a bit to get all this together. I'll try and post an update. Thanks again!

[@user-tk8fg3lu9m]

Same! Lol

[@user-tk8fg3lu9m]

It worked for me

[@alzimme86]

Worked for me, too.

[@_RedRanger]

any updates?

[@MarkAzali]

Thank you for posting a very modern how-to video for this process. Lots of dongles but your setup definitely works for laptops that have this functional USB-C port

[@timmyhutt7126]

Hey Mark, how did you manage to do it with only a usb-c port in your computer? I thought you needed a thunderbolt 3 port?

[@maradin9319]

Hello Mark How did you managed to do this? I hav usb-c wiuth thunderbolt 3 but it doesn't work

[@MarkAzali]

@@maradin9319 I ended up using my desktop with a firewire card since I don't have a laptop with the right port.

[@beyaz4beyaz]

If you guys have a regular windows desktop, just buy a FireWire PCI card, I believe it’s much cheaper compared to 4 separate cables including APPLE branded ones. For a laptop it’s a lifesaver though, nice video.

[@markedwards7137]

This was perfect. I have a Canon ZR950. I bought most of the suggested items but only needed three: Tripp Lite FireWire 800 IEEE 1394b Hi-speed Cable (9pin/4pin) 6-ft.(F019-006) black Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter Was able to import using Power Director.

[@weproject5177]

Great video! I was struggling trying to find the right connectors. Crossing fingers my minidv camcorder can still connect. It's an awesome little device and still works great!

[@theresapimentacointheglove8760]

Great video. Though, the only thing I'd recommend against is re-encoding the video, which will always result in lower-quality video (when going from 'lossy' to 'lossy'). Memory is cheap, why not keep the original? If you prefer a more widely supported container, like 'MPEG' or 'MKV', a free program called 'Xmedia Recode' can 'copy' the video and audio into those containers without actually converting anything.

[@robertaweir6687]

I recently acquired an HP Envy 13 with a thunderbolt 3 connection and have had an HDR-FX7 video camera for a few years. The items your recommended are being shipped from Amazon and hopefully I selected the right link so you will get credit. Thank you for sharing.

[@video2000ification]

How did it go?

[@kas2388]

Any update?

[@robertaweir6687]

@@kas2388 I'm good! Now learning how to download and edit. Thanks for your help.

[@alzimme86]

After months of failed tries with over the counter solutions (Elgato), this worked to perfection first try! Thank you so much. Old Sony camcorder full of videos can now be saved or uploaded. Found every cable at Microcenter in one trip, too.

[@swilhelm3180]

So you did it without genuine Apple cables/adapters?

[@alzimme86]

@@swilhelm3180 used genuine.

[@benjaminjacobson3729]

Thanks man, this works! I’ve been trying to do this for a long time and I’m finally able to transfer my DV footage to my pc.

[@middles7209]

Do you know if this works for all camcorders like the trv900, vx1000 etc...?

[@ezpainting4697]

Thank you. I have a vx2100e sitting around for more than a decade, I will repair it and give it a try.

[@wrenchvx8376]

have work for you ?

[@ezpainting4697]

@@wrenchvx8376 sorry for late reply, no it spoilt unfortunately.

[@gopinathv4098]

²

[@psychic_digit]

Holy mackerel, this video is very well made! This solved virtually all the questions I had

[@pregenderneutral]

IT WORKS!!!! Seconding the comment about checking your Thunderbolt settings.

[@GregMatses]

Thanks - this worked great for me connecting my MOTU 828 mkII FW to a new Dell Precision running Windows 10!

[@AdrianRAHorus]

i´ve a MOTU 828 mkII in W10, what adapters used ? Please. the 2 conversors of video?

[@usaroman]

Came looking for a comment on the motu 896hd mkI. I hope this works.

[@riz94107]

Sony's version was called "i.Link". You got i-triple-e from "IEEE 1394", which is the actual interface standard.

[@kilianhekhuis]

Thanks for pointing me in the right direction! Wouldn't have managed without this vid. HDV Split only supports Canon camera's, but luckily WinDV works perfectly, even though it can't control the camera itself.

[@scott.ballard]

You're a lifesaver and a memory saver! This worked like a charm. I used your affiliate links so hopefully you get a little $$ for your efforts.

[@HansMeulenbroek]

Thanks Scott. I use a desktop PC with firewire card to capture with Magix. Your solution for the MAC works fine on my new Macbook Pro. This was really helpfull! This solution works also for Digital 8 camera's. For analogue captures I use the Canopus ADVC110 connected to PC or Mac via firewire.

[@swilhelm3180]

Could you network the two together to transfer data?

[@HansMeulenbroek]

@@swilhelm3180 I have no need for this. I capture AVI on the desktop PC and MOV on the Macbook Pro. Captured files are written direct to connected (customers) external drives.

[@montxsuz]

Thanks for that Scott. I got my 2 Apple adapters today. I will use it for Audio, but will also try it with Audio. I have an old Audio interface with FireWire but no USB. BTW, the Startech TB3 -> TB2 adapters work very well, I have two of them which I use with ThunderBolt 2 Audio interfaces on my laptop and desktop computers. Very reliable so far, touch wood. A bit more expensive than the Apple version.

[@ZORAN_vgj]

did you get your firewire audio interface to work? im struggling with Saffire pro 24 dsp and have the adapters on my USB-C but my interface wont start or turn on .. i dont know what to do

[@montxsuz]

To be honest I haven't tried yet. I plugged the old Motu Firewire device into my new Motu Thunderbolt device via ADAT and that works fine. So not using Firewire any more - but I did test it with a Firewire video camera - that works.

[@jolaoh]

Thank you for creating your video and providing all the links and information. I have a Sony DCR-HC96 which can accept NTSC signals. It was broken so I sent it for repair. My first video I digitized was on a VHS tape from around 1985. I have many many more tapes of various formats to go. I'm using a slightly old Dell Precision 7520.

[@frankcoffey]

If you have a desktop you can get a PCIe Firewire card, just make sure you get the TI chipset, that's the only one that worked well for me. Windows 10 found the card right away so I didn't have to install any special drivers. I was able to capture Sony Digital 8 tapes using Adobe premiere. Magix Video Edit or Vegas as also good options for your editing. Thanks again for this video it's great to know there is a solution for laptops now. There are still a lot of useful Firewire devices out there folks might still have, audio interfaces and camcorders for example.

[@JorgeCanela]

Actually I have had the exact opposite experience in Windows 10. TI chipsets will work only on about 10% of the devices, and VIA chipsets will work on 90% of the devices. But it may vary with different devices/types of devices. I tried mainly audio interfaces and cameras.

[@ZakWolf]

Yeah, the problem I've noticed is that while all Macs on the market have Thunderbolt 3 ports, not many Windows PCs do. It's just like how for much of the 2000s all Macs on the market had FireWire ports while many Windows PCs did not (but you could often upgrade the towers or ExpressCard-equipped laptops with a FireWire card to achieve this.)

[@ScottSchramm]

Most business laptops have Thunderbolt because its used for high performance docking stations.

[@BillsCountry]

@@ScottSchramm Ok here's a good question.. Are the Thunderbolt connections the same as the USBC ports? I know they use the same type of connector..

[@ScottSchramm]

@@BillsCountry Thunderbolt can be USB-C, but USB-C can NOT be Thunderbolt.

[@BillsCountry]

@@ScottSchramm Question still remains. How would I know that the USBC port on my Windows is actually a Thunderbolt connection. I have the same cable hook up that you described hooked to my Mac, and I had to buy Final Cut Pro to get it to work, I want to make sure that I am able to hook it up to Windows 10 OR my Windows 11... I am sure that there is a way to determine that in the Device Manager??

[@ScottSchramm]

@@BillsCountry If you have Thunderbolt, then it would be listed in the Device Manager. If you don't see the Thunderbolt controller then you don't have Thunderbolt.

[@Knyte77]

Going to give this a whirl. Wish me luck! I'll let you know how I get on - thank you!!

[@andrewahiakpor8611]

So far I only needed three of the wires to connect successfully - the two apple cords, and the firewire to miniplug cable...

[@RealXFool]

I just bought old ThinkPad laptop with firewire port, windows 10, for 100$ Then just installed WinDV software, plug in camera with cable (4 pin male to 4 pin male) then press play on camera and reboot laptop and launch WinDV software and it captures your video. Biggest pain in the ass was figuring everything out and understanding how this old tech works, but at least I've learned something, don't know if I'm gonna need this knowledge but at least I have my old videos digitalized.

[@ScottSchramm]

Old ThinkPads are great for these kind of projects!

[@adammanthos2589]

Thank you for this very informative and clear video and for listing the links for us! Makes things so much easier.

[@mikeysrants4527]

Hi Scott! I have an older Sony HVR-Z1E and was wondering if this process will maintain the same audio quality that the camera captures from its XLR shotgun mic setup, or will I have to use additional software. This video earned you a sub from me!

[@ScottSchramm]

Yes, whatever quality the camera is capable of will be sent over the FireWire. It’s the highest quality available.

[@crisc1107]

Thank you, I've been looking for someone to covert mini DV into PC, but my question is, my computer is kinda old too, I only have UBS outlet, will this work on a computer that only have UBS outlet?

[@ScottSchramm]

Regular USB 2.0/3.0 will not work. You need either Thunderbolt or FireWire. If you only have a few tapes, it may be easier for you to send them to a 3rd party service and have them do the capture.

[@tilu3303]

I'm finally building a new daily driver pc after using my 2012 built pc till now. I had thought I might be retiring it but I rely on firewire capture regularly, and looking at the daisy chain you put together makes me think that old pc won't be retiring anytime soon because it supports it natively.

[@bilalnachabeh]

I recently bought an Mbox pro interface for a ridiculous low price and the catch was that it only has firewire 400 input. your video is really helpful but these apple adatpers cost like 40$ each!

[@christywhite6429]

i agree with robbie c thank you for bringing me back to sanity! dude i just got this samsung mini dvsc-d353 and truly after the joy came the wtf do i do now freak out. Also, for converting on Mac would I use the same programs? Do you have the same video for Mac users? thank youuuuuu

[@ScottSchramm]

Here is a similar video for Mac users: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i4iVc5WklLSdhKM You can just use iMovie for capturing the videos, you shouldn't need any special codecs as iMovie will export to MPEG4 built in.

[@sircandypants6147]

Thank you for the clear explanation! Now all I need is a laptop with a thunderbolt 3 connector... 😅

[@DelbyDank]

for over 15 years ive just been buying emac's for the sole purpose of capturing dv this iis way more elegant

[@vardansimonian7503]

Very useful. I just watched the video, haven't tried anything yet, but got answers to a few questions I was struggling with

[@davidkempton2894]

Many thanks for sharing this information 👍

[@ZzZ-qd1zo]

This is just what I was looking for, thank you!

[@gorjnjch]

Great, informative video, thanks! There is another option for recording DV video (and not only DV, but also, for example, recording from a VHS cassette) on a computer running Windows. There are external cards for capturing video signals via HDMI and transmitting the signal to the USB3 port of the computer. Uncle Ali sells these capture cards for less than the cost of the required adapter cable from a well-known company. For recording, the OBS Studio program is used, for example. This is an option for recording video from the HDMI output to the USB3 input. This option does not make sense if we already have a saved video file. But if we have a VHS video cassette, and a VHS or Super VHS video recorder, then using a 3 RCA, CVBS to HDMI converter, and an HDMI to USB3 converter, it becomes possible to capture video from a VHS tape. The cost of the first and second converters is slightly lower than the cost of the required cables - adapters. Of course, this topic has already been discussed on KZbin, and there are many videos. As for the option described by the author of this video, I have already found the necessary cables on sale, and I want to try this option. Moreover, I have a Panasonic NV-MX500 video camera and miniDV cassettes.

[@ScottSchramm]

Most camcorders do not have an HDMI output. Mine does because it shoots in HDV but I still wouldn't rely on it. The HDMI capture will remain digital, but there still may be a little quality loss vs capturing the stream directly. It would depend on the quality/bitrate the capture card supports. To give a different example, lets say you wanted to save my KZbin video. You could play it full screen while using screen recording software, or you could use a KZbin downloader and just save the video directly. The quality will be better by downloading it directly vs screen recording it. The same kind of thing would apply here. Doing it direct with FireWire will save the original data from the tape directly vs capturing the playback of it over HDMI.

[@gummybear41283]

thanks for your help, I bought the 2 Apple cables and the firewire

[@imark7777777]

Awesome video so far, I have been wondering the exact topic. And well I now have the Apple adapters I don't have a Windows computer with a thunderbolt port yet so have been unable to test. My theory was always yes as long as it's not a USB-C port witches the same port used with thunderbolt. And Sony used to call it "iLink" as well. They're also used to exist a DV video to USB capture adapter cable, it had a lump in the middle with essentially a Scan converter and USB Capture chip. I have a lot of Firewire peripherals that aren't DV video as in hard drives (USB 1.1 and 2.0 was so slow in real world use) and I came into contact with a lot of audio interfaces. So they were mandatory adapters to add to my collection of Apple dongle's, I originally got them for compatibility with my former work computer and now I'm saving up for another apple 12 your laptop.

[@reachdpk]

firewire mini > firewire 400 > firewire 800 > thunderbolt , wow 4 connectors

[@joshymcdaniel9233]

Thanks for taking the time to make a detailed video’ Unless u r dead set on using your modern laptop for about the same cost as all these adapters…. I just found an old apple laptop I believe from 2003-2008 all apple laptops have the FireWire port’ Also if u have a express card slot or a pcmcia slot u can buy A express card to firewire’ Hope that helps someone’ if u can pick up an old apple laptop for $75-100 much easier’ New tech doesn’t always play well with old tech’ 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@ScottSchramm]

You are correct but for the same price, I would rather buy the adapters for a new computer then buy an older system that could have other problems like a slow processor, small hard disk, etc. For people that already have an older system or can find one for free, that may be the better way to go.

[@joshymcdaniel9233]

Out of curiosity i wonder if you could use a an external pcmcia to usb adapter Then plug a pcmcia card with firewire curious if that would work?

[@grahamjohnson99]

Thanks for good video. This worked for me on a Lenovo X1 Carbon running Windows 10 (using WinDV for the capture).

[@roccobunko]

Maybe I'm missing it in the video but I don't hear you mention firewire PCi cards but you have them linked in the description. Do I need one if I'm using the cable combination you use in the video? I don't see why i should seeing as the cable that is connecting to my PC is a thunderbolt C. Apologies if you already stated this somewhere

[@ScottSchramm]

I added the links to the PCI cards after making the video because some viewers had desktop computers and wanted a solution. If you already have Thunderbolt 3, then you are correct, you only need the adapters and cables like I shown in the video, you would not need the PCI cards.

[@brianrudolph3594]

Excellent video! I can't thank you enough for all of the information and all of the links. I just clicked on all of the links on Amazon. One of the cables is out up stock but I believe I have that one anyways. Everything else I ordered and I can't thank you enough! Keep up the great videos!

[@jasoncroasdell8212]

this method works for me on windows 11.

[@ScottSchramm]

Links to some software recommendations are in the video description.

[@timothylarson3558]

Thank you so much! I am going to test using WinDV. Mac OS broke the option to import via Firewiare with the latest update... All I want to do is get my old tapes digitized before it's too late.

[@sk8nicolas1]

Dude skateboarders love you

[@evrrrLn]

Amazing explenation, but please - will it works even if I have just USB 3.1 ? Or do I have to need some more adapters ?

[@ScottSchramm]

It will not work, it needs to Thunderbolt. This is explained in the video.

[@samuelg7673]

No fucking way Scott, I didn't expect to see you when I looked up this.

[@ScottSchramm]

Are you the Sam that used to troll me all the time in college?

[@johnnypeloso]

I have that same camcorder! Ordered parts and hoping they work!

[@mspacific25]

I have a Panasonic GS400 miniDV camera. Luckily I can connect the USB for transfer of the video. In fact the manual lists both USB and Fire wire as options for video capture. I don't have a firewire port on pc so I used usb. My questions is there a difference between the quality? I mean is the USB capturing at the same quality as the firewire? It's sort of bugging me a little. Really helpful video. Thanks.

[@ScottSchramm]

You seem to have one of the very few camcorders that can do video over USB! It looks like Panasonic is making that work by some kind of "video stream" driver. My guess is that it is lowering the quality to QVGA (320x240) as that is what the specifications list for the webcam mode. If you are after the highest/original quality video, I would use FireWire. Otherwise if you are happy with the quality that USB mode is giving you then stick with that.

[@mspacific25]

@@ScottSchramm Thanks for the prompt reply! Now interestingly within the cameras menu system it does ask whether I wanted to use the USB for Webcam or for Motion DV. Obviously I picked the latter since I never use it as a webcam. Using Premiere Pro, I captured the footage to the native miniDV resolution 720x576 (PAL) at 25fps. It's possible it might be upscaling it but I doubt it since I'm not changing any settings and it's automatically detecting this resolution. Also it's worth noting it only provided a USB Cable inside the box.

[@mspacific25]

I've just gone ahead and tested the webcam for the first time ever. It records at 320 x 240 and the quality between this and the Motion DV USB capture is quite obvious. So I suspect the USB is outputting at the full resolution but I suppose there maybe other factors that could be involved between the USB or FireWire capture which impacts the quality...etc.(?). Maybe you can answer that? Also I forgot to mention that the NV-GS400 requires a USB 2.0 connection. If I recall USB 2.0 was competing quite close with FireWire.

[@ScottSchramm]

@@mspacific25 Correct USB and FireWire are very close in specs. I explained a little bit more about this in one of my other videos: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZnbLq5-nfZ6Zg9E. Basically USB 2.0 is a little bit faster, but there is a lot of overhead which makes bad for real-time applications like capturing video streams. My guess is the special driver/software from Panasonic is allowing for a "buffer" and then it is using the CPU to process it as the buffer fills. Kind of like how anti-skip CD players work.

[@mspacific25]

@@ScottSchramm Great, thanks for that information! Yes I think it seems likely it's doing that. I'll check out your other work. Do you have any videos of improving the quality of miniDV footage so it looks better on HD televisions?

[@user-tk8fg3lu9m]

Thanks Scott! This video helped me a lot!!

[@tonz0phun]

i just found my canon hv20 and a bunch of tapes, this is going to useful! Thanks!

[@brucebugg]

Thank you. I have a relatively new Asus laptop with two Thunderbolt 4 ports. I still have my Canon GL-1 and a stack of Mini DV tapes that I want to move to a more modern format. Note that the Amazon link is updated to a 6 foot FireWire 4 pin to FireWire 800, so I only (ha!) needed three things in the daisy chain. WinDV worked for me, not sure why HDVSplit didn't. I've just transferred my first video, a family video of my late mother narrating some family history. Have run the videos through HandBrake (I already had it) and now stitching them together. I was worried that I would have to buy a desktop just to get the FireWire card.

[@ScottSchramm]

Thanks for sharing your experience, I'm glad this still works with a Thunderbolt 4 PC. Your camcorder is miniDV (not HDV) so that is why the WinDV software works instead of HDVSplit. Sounds like you got this process down now. Good job preserving your family history.

[@Mudge07]

I’d an old pcmia card adapter fed from a 2-port FireWire dongle, but that was at least a 20-year-old solution, the bespoke edge connectors mean that unless you’re retaining a particularly old, slow, laptop or PC then they’re scrap. So when I needed to archive some DV tapes with the minimum of editorial fuss your demo seemed like a good, albeit more expensive, route to success. The USB dongle I’ve also tried for VHS tape (or video and stereo cable inputs) was effective in capturing the images but doesn’t have the auto-segmentation aspect in the software like the Mac FireWire protocols.

[@ScottSchramm]

You can certainly use the analog output from the camcorder and a USB capture device like you used but you will be loosing quality compared to doing it digitally with the FireWire and adapters.

[@JacobCenteno]

I see you have recommended pci cards on your amazon. I have pretty much all the different laptops. Should I install one of the pci card adapters in to my 12th gen intel desktop or does it also not process? I also have the m1 mac book air. So, do you recommend the adapter approach or pci approach? Thanks for continuing to make videos on this subject! I really appreciate it Scott.

[@ScottSchramm]

I’ve heard mixed results on the PCIe cards working with the newer generation. On the other hand, since you have a Mac I would go that route that the dongles still work even with M1 Mac. I have another video on my channel showing that working.

[@achilles6221981]

Dude, you are awesome. Great video!

[@NevilleStyke]

With my two Windows10 desktop PCs, I just bought PCI-e firewire cards, for £10 each, and plugged them into the motherboard and that works fine for firewire capture of video, in both SD and HDV. It's a shame that Apple and others no longer supply such a cheap solution for their laptops (they used to, when laptops had an expansion slot which you could fit a firewire card in. but nowadays they expect you to buy a new laptop, rather than just expand the one which you already have).

[@ScottSchramm]

Apple did make a dongle for over 10 years but just recently continued it.

[@Knight-Merc]

Is there a way to do this on a PC that doesn't have Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ? My PC only has USB 3 ports

[@ScottSchramm]

No

[@PeradocePt]

Thank you so much! :) Just a tip about how does it seams to work only on Apple branded adaptors: « [IEE 1394] was developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s by Apple in cooperation with a number of companies, primarily Sony and Panasonic. Apple called the interface FireWire.» (Wikipedia)

[@verbage432]

so question for the part at 4:25 why did u connect it to the mini connection adding an additional dongle to the process instead of just using an 800 to 400 cable u linked in the description?

[@ScottSchramm]

I used the cables I already had. I later realized there was a more efficient way which is the one I linked to on Amazon.

[@mannyv2270]

Great explanation, thanks! QUESTION: Is there any loss of video / audio quality when we connect all these adapters / cables?

[@ScottSchramm]

The digital signal is simply passed through, so there is no loss or compression.

[@laureldc]

Thank you for explaining this so well. I was getting overwhelmed with all the talk of gadgets that convert to usb. Do you have a suggestion for converting vhs?

[@ScottSchramm]

Some Digital8/MiniDV camcorders had an analog pass through feature that worked great for this. You would connect your VCR’s output to the input of the camcorder and then from the camcorders FireWire to the computer and that would digitize the signal for the computer to capture. You would need to find an old camcorder with this feature or buy a capture card with the yellow/white/red RCA connections (called composite) to do that.

[@imark7777777]

DV video was a fairly standardized standard and was supported more widely than multi channel audio interfaces which tended to come with custom drivers due to the lack of built-in compatibility on windows. I will also add that DV Video is a real-time protocol for transferring video and in most cases it's not a drag-and-drop file Drive (even though some devices for that exist).

[@ScottSchramm]

Correct, since the video is on tape you have to play it back and capture it in real time.

[@monkeymanthai]

Good..what is the model of Dell notebbok that you use in this video?..I would like your advice: which is the best notebook between this Dell and the Lenovo Thinkpad T490 to acquire from minidv with these two Apple thunderbolt-firewire adapters?..Many thanks

[@ScottSchramm]

Dell Latitude 7490. The “best” option would actually be something older that has FireWire on board so you don’t need the adapters. Watch my latest video for more info on that approach.

[@henrydreiling61]

Hey Scott. Thanks for the very helpful video. Do you have link for the first item you list? The 4-pin firewire to full size firewire adaptor. None of the links appear to go to that specific one. Thank you!

[@ScottSchramm]

Hey there, I just added a link to the description. Here you go: FireWire 400 mini to 400 full size adapter: amzn.to/390k40c If you are starting out and don't have any cables or adapters, then I recommended getting this one: FireWire 800 to 400 mini plug cable: amzn.to/2TCSGz1 This way you can convert directly to 800 for the Apple adapter without having the extra adapter like in my video.

[@tomgrasso4818]

This was a great video, it helped me out so much. I do just have one question...why not do this on a table or a desk? Why on the carpet? Sorry I had to ask

[@ScottSchramm]

Haha I've been making videos from the floor for years and you're the first person to question it! Previously I was living in a very small studio apartment and on the floor in front of my couch was the only "free space" I had. I recently moved into a bigger apartment and have more space now but still use the floor because it's clean and confortable I guess. It also has the best lighting there! I'll try and mix it up in a future video.

[@imark7777777]

@@ScottSchramm that's what I assumed, sounds like it's now your trademark.

[@JulieShepherd-w1b]

I have a JVC GR-D850U miniDv camcorder. I am trying to transfer video to computer. It does have a DV port on camcorder. My camcorder seems to work other than the LCD screen lighting up so I can press play etc.. I am wondering if it's possible to still transfer data from the miniDVs to computer without using the LCD screen?

[@ScottSchramm]

Yes it will still be possible as the video will be displayed on the computer and you shouldn’t need the built in screen. Alternatively if you do need to access the menus of your camcorder you can use the analog output connected to a TV. Just don’t use that for video capture as it will be reduced quality.

[@DJMathieuGodbout]

Would it be possible to use this cam as a ''web cam'' with obs for exemple? I have an old HVX200 with Firewire 400 4 pin port. Could I use it as my streaming camera? I dont have HDMI output

[@ScottSchramm]

I don't think this is possible unless the manufacture has some software or driver to make that possible. Worth a try though.

[@imark7777777]

it Used be possible for a firewire device to act as a WebCam but That was dependent on both the device and computer software.

[@jaymo8206]

Question: My laptop only has regular USB. No Thunderbolt USB-C inputs. How do I attach a vintage 1393 Firewire 400 device [e.g. Mini Dv camcorder-DVD player-recorder] to my Windows laptop? Which cables, drivers, video app, card etc would I need to capture video ? I used to have everything Mac 10 years ago, so no issues. But now it's back to Windows.

[@ScottSchramm]

It's not compatible with USB-A. Go back to Mac as they all have Thunderbolt these days and would work.

[@nknguyen2877]

I'm wondering whether if the driver you mentioned does support 60i/50i recording or it only capped at 30 frames.

[@ScottSchramm]

The driver does not limit that. Your camcorder is what decides the frame rate.

[@fluxus_tr]

Great video - however this doesnt work MOTU UltraLite Hybrid 3 - Am using all apple adapters, and have Thunderbolt 3 input on PC laptop with correct drivers installed. The laptop reads that a device is connected, but there are more detailed connectivity issues - if anyone has successfully paired their old firewire MOTU with a newer PC via thunderbolt/usb-c please let me know. Thank you.

[@marksaywood1913]

When downloading my Sony camcorder mini dv tapes directly to my 2020 Mac Pro, can I do that directly into iMovie or will I need additional software as you mention in video? ...thank you

[@ScottSchramm]

iMovie is perfect for that. You don't need any other software.

[@Mudge07]

Used this set up one April 2022 evening on a M1 Mac, the next day after an interim software update it failed. Got new cables and another cam to try and verify that my original hardware was ok, but the software OS said, NO. Yes it was Apple devices that I bought and the OS recognised them before and after the update but as to transfer to Apple iMovie or a similar app, it wasn’t recognising the terminal device (camera). So I used my Win10 laptop and a legacy adapter rather than FireWire.

[@ScottSchramm]

You probably ran into the bug with macOS 12.3 and 12.3.1.....update to 12.4 and it will work again. I made a video about it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/naTFYmafq8msh6s

[@wintersprite]

Thanks for the video. I did buy a Roxio converter set but this can be helpful too.

[@terencemcculloch3294]

Mpeg2 codec is a common standard used In DVD's and digital TV broadcasts.

[@ScottSchramm]

You are correct!

[@hermanheesakkers5501]

Thanks for this video, I understand the principle but still some ambiguities. I have purchased an older Hasselbvlad camera H4D31 and it has a FireWire 800 connection how do I get it connected to my Windows PC with a USB C port.... I have a FireWire 800/800 connection with an adapter to Apple Tunderbolt but I don't have that connection. So what/what steps should/can I take to connect my device to my PC.

[@noahsantisteven3219]

Thank you so much, great video.

[@larrykraft2743]

@Scott Schramm, Your Amazon store does not have the little mini Firewire to full size Firewire 400 adapter mentioned in your video but it has a cable that looks like it goes straight from a mini Firewire to full sized firewire 800. And the description on Amazon says nothing about 400, only 800. Does this mean I can now get away with one less item in the “chain”between the camcorder and my laptop? Thank you SO MUCH for this video! It really makes me think I’m on the way to accomplishing something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time!

[@ScottSchramm]

Yes, you can use the third link in my video description and go from the big FireWire 800 to the small FireWire 400.

[@larrykraft2743]

It worked!!! I’m super thrilled to have accomplished my first test capture from a mini DV tape to my laptop! Thank you so much! I was happy to support you by using your Amazon links. Keep up the good work!

[@yousef5886]

Do you know of any cheap Mini DV camcorders that have the 4-pin Mini FireWire port that I could buy second-hand? Thank you so much for this video - I've been asked by a family member to digitise some old Mini DV tapes and didn't know what equipment/cables/software I'd need to do it...until now! 😄

[@ScottSchramm]

Check eBay. Pretty much every camcorder that takes miniDV will have a FireWire connection.

[@BrianBrownrigg]

2024 now...looks like the TB2 to FW 800 connector has been discontinued. I may have to spend over $100, but if anyone has a good suggestion/source, would love to know!

[@ScottSchramm]

Updated video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gom7hI2ahL-VY80

[@BrianBrownrigg]

@@ScottSchramm Yeah, saw that, and thank you. I'm trying to avoid sourcing a new (old) machine. I've got three of four cables/adaptors now, it's just that last one. If anyone has a good source, would appreciate any leads! Thanks again, Scott. The videos are great.

[@jianwang4983]

Hi Scott, I have been struggling for days, trying to make the connection work between my old Panasonic Digital Video Camcorder (PV-GS59) and my computer (Dell Inspiron 15 5000 Series). This video of yours, I feel is the closest to solving my problem. But my concern is the ports, which seem different from the ones on your computer. With what I have, will I be able to accomplish what I need to do ( I have at least a dozen MiniDV tapes to transfer)?

[@ScottSchramm]

If you have Thunderbolt on your laptop then you should be fine.

[@amyrosejax]

I have this exact camera and a new laptop pc that has no firewire. How did it go?

[@user-ru8gk4bj3c]

The Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter (MD464) is now discontinued as of early December 2023. Can you suggest an alternative adapter?

[@ScottSchramm]

There are zero other adapters. The Apple one is the only one that works. If you can't find anyone selling the adapters new, then look for a used one on eBay.

[@ScottSchramm]

Hurry, Amazon has the FireWire adapter back in stock: amzn.to/47fYX4J

[@user-ru8gk4bj3c]

@@ScottSchramm Thanks! Although what I ended up doing instead was to buy an old 24" 2008 iMac for $20 off Facebook marketplace, less than the cost of the adapters :) Had a Firewire 400 port right on it, no need for any adapter

[@auklandca]

@@ScottSchramm Welp, I missed it :-/

[@ScottSchramm]

@@user-ru8gk4bj3c That's a good way to go. In fact, I'm about to make a new video dealing the options for using an old computer instead of a newer one.

[@HiNickCares]

My DV camera shows up in device manager but the Win DV software can't see it. Device manager says the drivers are up to date.

[@ScottSchramm]

Check the troubleshooting section in my video description. You might need to uninstall the driver and revert back to the Windows default one.

[@lejeffe1663]

Can this be done with presonus interface for recording multy channel audio?

[@ScottSchramm]

Yes! Check out this video for more specific directions on audio interfaces: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZnbLq5-nfZ6Zg9E

[@GabeGX]

Any chance you can connect the adapters to your PC without the camera attached as well? Does "IEEE 1394 host controller" show up under device manager?

[@ScottSchramm]

Just tested and yes, that does appear. Under ""IEEE 1394 host controller" it lists "LSI 1394 OHCI Compliant Host Controller" with a driver by Microsoft dated 6/21/2006.

[@swilhelm3180]

What about getting an old PC, installing a firewire PCI card, then networking that machine to your modern laptop?

[@ScottSchramm]

You can install a FireWire PCI card and do it that way, but you can't capture video over the network. You could capture the video on the old PC, then transfer those files over the network if you wanted.

[@stevekennedy3794]

Windows 10 Pro, Build 19043.1645 crashes when the FireWire 800 to THunderbolt 2 adapter is connected (to the already plugged into laptop) Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 adapter. Evidently Windows no longer makes drivers for Firewire 800

[@ScottSchramm]

This is a common issue and has to do with drivers. Read the troubleshooting section at the end of my video description for the fix.

[@dbrownofficial]

I’ve got a 1394b from an old G Drive and can’t seem to find an adapter to go to USB or directly to my newer MacBook… any suggestions?

[@ScottSchramm]

Give this video a watch: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i4iVc5WklLSdhKM

[@graywolf1911]

Scott, I ran into a new problem. I have 6 8MM Sony DVR tapes from a camera that only has RCA outputs, one for video one for audio. I know from your previous work that many "converters" do not work. That being the case, what is the best way to get these onto my computer? Transfer to DVD recorder or is there a better solution?

[@ScottSchramm]

The only way is to use one of those analog capture devices, or get a Digital8 camcorder with FireWire