Windows 7 - Record-Capture-Import Camcorder Video

Written by: PapaJohn • Edited by: Rhonda Callow
Updated Mar 5, 2010 • Related Guides: Windows 7 | Movie Maker

Over 5 versions of Windows Movie Maker the word used to get video has changed 3 times. You Record camcorder video with MM1, Capture with MM2 and Import with MM6 and Windows Live. Let's see how each version 'gets' video from my Sony TRV80 mini-DV camcorder tapes using a firewire cable in Windows 7.

Setup Mini-DV Camcorder with Firewire

When I connected a mini-DV camcorder using firewire, and turned it on in VCR mode, nothing happened. It didn't ping, popup, or give other evidence of noticing. MM1, MM2.1, MM2.6 and MM6 didn't recognize it.

The Windows Live suite, with it's Video Acquire Wizard tucked into the Photo Gallery folder with Windows Live Movie Maker resolved it. After downloading and installing the suite, connecting the camcorder resulted in it being recognized. The needed driver was automatically found and installed in a few seconds, and I was ready to start getting camcorder clips.

I'll start with Movie Maker 1, the original version, and work up to the newest ones. I'm running each in XP or Vista compatiblity mode as appropriate, in case it helps.

Record (get video) with Movie Maker 1

Recording video from a mini-DV camcorder typically offers you the choice of a large DV-AVI file or a smaller compressed one in WMV format. I prefer the larger higher quality files up front, for maximum quality. Then when a project is finished I'll save it to whatever file type and quality is appropriate, depending on how I'm distributing it.

The DV-AVI file type recorded by MM1 is type II, a sightly larger file then the newer type I made by MM2 and higher. The type II is the same visually, but has an extra copy of the audio track. Some older software only works with type II files, while newer software accepts either.

The file comes into the computer as a single large DV-AVI file. MM1 then imports it into a collection as a set of clips, auto detecting the scenes and naming each based on time/date info. See the image below, which shows clips from a 6 minute segment. It's interesting that the footage was originally captured using MM2.1 in XP, made into a project there, saved to a DV-AVI file and copied to the camcorder. Now it's coming back from the camcorder tape using MM1 running in Windows 7, and the time/date code survived the whole trip.

Capture (get video) with Movie Maker 2.1

Version 2.1 is the movie making workhorse of XP. It's been around now for about 5 years and has provided endless hours of fun for those engrossed in making custom effects, transitions and title overlays. If anyone is going to miss the current version as they move to Windows 7, it'll be the dedicated users of MM2.1.

The capturing process in Windows 7 worked as in XP. The auto-creation of clips resulted in the same breakdown as in MM1, a dozen clips named after the time/date stamp info. The DV-AVI file is the newer type I instead of the type II obtained by MM1.

Import (get video) with Vista versions MM6 and MM2.6

Movie Maker 6 is in all versions of Vista while MM2.6 was a special release for those whose graphics cards didn't effectively run MM6.

Movie Maker in Vista shells out the importing process to a wizard. MM2.6 is a stripped down version of MM2.1 from XP, with the Capture feature removed.

I couldn't get the Vista capture wizard to work in Windows 7, the only one that didn't.

Import (get video) with Windows Live Video Acquire Wizard

The Video Acquire Wizard in the Windows Live Suite is the default for importing in Windows 7. When the camcorder is plugged in and turned on in VCR mode, it pops up to start the importing process.

The file created is a type I DV-AVI. When the import session is finished, Photo Gallery opens automatically and shows the thumbnail for the new clip. Windows Live Movie Maker doesn't have the collections feature of MM1 thru MM6... think of Windows Live Photo Gallery as the collection library. You bring the clips into Windows Live Movie Maker as needed for a project.

This is the usual and preferred way to get video from a mini-DV camcorder into Windows 7.

Summary

Movie Maker versions 1 and 2 are more self-contained applications than the software app teams of Vista and Windows 7. With a camcorder driver installed, MM1 and MM2 can be used in the Windows 7 environment.to get video from a mini-DV camcorder connected by firewire.

MM6 and the newest Windows Live Movie Maker are more like key players on a team, not stand-alone stars. The Vista team with MM6 uses a CaptureWizard which doesn't work in the Windows 7 environment, while the Windows Live team uses the WLXVideoAcquireWizard in the Photo Gallery folder, something designed to work in Windows 7 (and Vista).

I have more than enough ways to get my mini-DV camcorder tape footage into Windows 7. As my camcorder supports 'pass-thru', analog video sources connected to the camcorder with RCA and S-video cables are converted to DV by the camcorder.

I used a mini-DV camcorder and DV-AVI files to illustrate the process. Having WMV files created instead of DV-AVI is an option with each tool.

The next article in this series will look at the features available in these 5 versions of Movie Maker to create and edit movie projects.

Images

Aparecida Silva Nov 18, 2011 10:33 AM

RE: Windows 7 - Record-Capture-Import Camcorder Video

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PapaJohn Oct 25, 2011 11:04 PM

That's added by the free trial of the MPEG4 codec you downloaded.... you can purchase the codec and it'll stop tagging your files... or you can not use the codec and uninstall it.

Howard Oct 25, 2011 9:31 PM

hey i am using windows movie maker and every time i import my video it has a message at the bottom of each clip that says lead mpeg4 eval decoder how can i get that off

Howard Oct 25, 2011 9:28 PM

hello i am using windows movie maker and everytime i load the clips there is a message at the bottom of each clip that say lead mpeg4 eval decoder how can i get that off

PapaJohn Apr 30, 2011 3:02 AM

Hi Anonymous....

My understanding is that the DV codec is the same one for NTSC and PAL, and it's a codec you don't change as it's provided directly by Microsoft if needed. I just checked using MM2.1 on Windows 2 to see if I could make a PAL DV-AVI file from a WMV file and it worked fine.

You might get an answer if you post at the Windows Live Solution Center.... be sure to include your camcorder brand and model, and the fact that you are connecting by firewire (which I assume you are... or it's a totally different ballgame).

http://windowslivehelp.com/forums.aspx?productid=5

Ralph Bloch Apr 29, 2011 4:48 PM

Importing PAL

I did all the steps suggested in the above article. But the WLXVideoAcquireWizard freezes up, once the tape starts. I have to run the machine down to recover. The only difference is that I am using a PAL camera. How does one change the video codec?

PapaJohn Apr 7, 2011 11:33 AM

nice going Fergus....

thanks for the followup comment... enjoy!!

Fergus15 Apr 7, 2011 9:17 AM

Solution for Sony DV CAm

PapaJohn,

yesterday i received by post a Sony iLink Firewire, 4 pin to 4 pin. So i plugged it in and hey presto!! worked on Windows Live Photo, Pinnacle and WINDV. Tried it on a difference Sony ini DV cam and both worked perfectly.

Advcie to otehrs having problems with SoOny MiniDV cams - get a sony firewire, picked mine up on ebay for £0.99p!!!

PapaJohn Apr 6, 2011 12:33 PM

Hi Fergus

the ffdshow messages might be a clue to your issue.... try uninstalling or turning off ffdshow

sometimes I've resolved issues by installing ffdshow, but sometimes it causes them...

Fergus 15 Apr 6, 2011 6:48 AM

Video capture using Vista and Sony DCR-TRV 18e

PapaJohn,

Thanks for the speedy reply.
I tried WinDV, but again this had the same issue in that when I attempted to 'capture video' Vista O/S responded then went into the ongoing circular mouse activity (device manager confirmed that capture.exe was running but just kept running).
Interestingly, last night when I tried again, I logged in my home pc as a different user, initiated Windows Life Photo gallery for the first time as a new user and captured a tape last night (kept getting a prompt if I wanted to allow ‘ffdshow’. However, when I went to capture a second tape, same issue as above.
I will still keep trying all variations until all my tapes are captured (3 left), then ebay the Sony DV minicam and upgrade to a more reliable model that Microsoft supports. Either that or buy an Apple.
If I crack I will come back and share...
Regards Fergus 15

PapaJohn Apr 4, 2011 1:54 PM

Hi Fergus....

Your comment makes me think of three issues....

(1) Fishing for the firewire connection issue is just that.... fishing by using different combinations of software, camcorders, firewire cables, and computers to zero in on the issue... which could be an intermittent one with a cable, even a new one.

You didn't note trying the WinDV utility (I don't know if it works in Vista or Windows 7), free from http://windv.mourek.cz/.... try VirtualDub also (it works in all versions of Windows).

(2) I've come across a number of issues with various Windows version when something works the first time but never again, or doesn't work the first time but always again.... I've explored this what I call 'short term memory issue' but never got so far as a good guess about why.

(3) Firewire is phasing out, leaving the connections to USB... as the world turns fewer firewire based things will continue to work. Windows and software updates could result in working things being turned off.

I'd keep fishing... if it worked once, it might kick in. Try a system restore and go back to when it worked.

Fergus15 Apr 4, 2011 8:47 AM

Papa John,

i have read your review and associated comments with interest. I am currently running a VISTA 32bit system and trying to connect the above mini DV camera to transfer some tapes to DVD. Finally sorted my firewire issues by purchasing a new sony specific 4 pin firewire (Ilink) port and lead and my computer now recognises my camera!! First time round i connected via firewire I successfully got the 'beep' connection, computer loaded Sony drivers, and i was able to capture my first tape successfully via Windows Live Essentials via the on screen video import prompt. Since the first success, nothing. I can still get 'prompt' and the sony camera is recognised in Windows essentials, but once i press capture i get stuck in the circular mouse icon waiting for a response. When i try and come out, I get a message that Windows essentials is not responding. I have tried using a number of video capture software to resolve (Pinnacle 12 & 15 and Movie Maker)but even though the camera is recognised i get the same issue when i press capture. I was going to upgrade to Win7 hoping that this would resolve this issue, but it seems that people have the same or similar issue with Win7. Any insight as to where i go next and what to try?

PapaJohn Feb 22, 2011 2:06 PM

Hi Geoffrey

The TV Tuner of my main computer stopped working when I installed the final release version of Windows 7... every time I start the computer I get an error message about it not being compatible and to go online to see if there's a newer driver... the checking always says 'sorry, nothing newer is available'.

That TV Tuner worked fine with XP, Vista and even the pre-release beta versions of Windows 7.

My method of getting from a TV/VCR is to go into my mini-DV camcorder and use it to convert it to a DV stream which comes into the Windows 7 Photo Gallery Capture Wizard as a DV-AVI file.

You should go to forums such as http://www.windowsmoviemakers.net where you might get some helpful info from others who use what you do.

Geoffrey Feb 22, 2011 9:11 AM

Thanks the quick response. That's not the answer I expected, I thought my problem was related to not having an appropriate codec and was hoping you would have an appropriate codec suggestion. ATI AVStream is the driver used for the ATI TV Wonder Cards. I have two the 550 tv wonder card, which I am trying to use, and the TV Wonder HD 600 card. I believe they both use the same driver. What I am doing with this is recording a stream from my Cable company(Cox) DVR. Does any of this info help or do you have the same response? Or do you have some other way with which I could achieve the same goal. Thank's for taking the time to respond.

PapaJohn Feb 21, 2011 9:24 PM

As the world turns, hardware gets out of date unless the manufacturer develops and provides a driver that works with the newer operating system.

I don't have any experience with your ATI device but the steps to take are usually to search for a driver that works in Windows 7 and, if that doesn't resolve it, you might be at the end of the road for using that device with Movie Maker. If so, you'll need to see if any other software works for doing the capturing.

Movie Maker over the years has moved more and more away from analog capture devices.

Geoffrey Feb 21, 2011 9:03 PM

Papa John,
There have not been any posts to this for a while, but I have a question I wanted to ask you. I would like to use Movie Maker 2.1 in Win7 to capture video off of my S-video cable with ATI AVstream analog capture which I can do in xp media center. When I try to do this in Win 7 it registers the sound, but when I get to the last step in the process, it gives me a 'class not registered' error. If you could help me figure out how to resolve this I would appreciate it.

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TM Jan 18, 2011 12:48 PM

Computer not recognizing Camcorder

ok Thank you

PapaJohn Jan 18, 2011 12:37 PM

Hi TM

For peer support about such issues, the forums at...

http://www.windowsmoviemakers.net

...are better to post to than the comment section of this article. Finding and resolving the problem is usually a trial and error process. You tried another camcorder. Try another firewire cable. Try your camcorder on another computer. It's a bit harder to try another PCI card, but any of the parts of the setup could be the problem, even new ones.

TM Jan 18, 2011 10:48 AM

Computer not recongnizing Camcorder

I recently installed a firewire PCI card into a desktop, on a computer that uses the windows XP operating system. When I connected the firewire cable to the computer and a Sony model DCR-TRV250 camcorder, the computer didn't recognize the camcorder. I also open up movie maker and try to capture and video and receive a error stating the capture device wasn't connected. I tried another camcorder too and it didn't work either.

Does anyone know what the problem could be.

PapaJohn Dec 7, 2010 1:49 AM

Hi Royce....

Assuming you're using Windows 7, have installed the Windows Live Essentials suite which gets you the Microsoft DV codec, know the difference between a firewire cable and a USB one (many don't), and have turned the camcorder on in VCR/VTR mode.... it's a trial and error process to determine which part isn't working.

Try the firewire cable and camcorder on other computers... and try another camcorder with your comuter. Firewire cables, even new ones, can have issues. The firewire port could be bad - I've even heard of a new computer having a port but nothing connected to it inside.

The Cameras and Capture Devices > Brands > JVC page of my website (www.papajohn.org) has a number of comments from those having such issues.... seems more than with other brands.

Royce Smith Dec 6, 2010 8:47 PM

transfer of movies

Basically I have the same problem, my computer ( Dell Studio XPS 8100 is a gaming computer but I just now tried to use it to transger my movies from a JVC GR-D30U Digital Video Camera, using a firewire cable and card, my puter says the firewire is there and working but it will not recognize the camera at all I have read thru all of the questions/answers here at your site and tried everything that might even remotely have a solution it just won't recognize the camera I thought I*d ask and see if you had a better answer
Thank you

denmarfl Nov 11, 2010 1:07 PM

CamCorder

Timing is everything! I have been shopping for my Next CamCorder which given todays' Technology will be a HiDef CamCorder. I "zero'ed" in on the Sony HDR-CX150. Noting your comment "it
just barely delivers on the promise of HD quality" gives me reason to re-think what I should purchase. I am not one that jumps when new is out. I currently have a 7 year old Panasonic Camcorder.....and so when I make a purchase I want to know it will be servicable and has the features and quality that going forward in the future will well serve me...as has my 7 year old Panasonic. The pricing of the CX150 is also attractive......as I use the Camcorder for personal reasons and surely don't need to spend $700 plus for a camcorder....but, the next one I buy does need to be a good HiDef Camcorder with a nice zoom and features....HiDef\ BluRay is the Future and nthat is where I want to go with my next camcorder, reasonally price, camcorder.

Alisha Nov 11, 2010 3:53 AM

Mini Digital Camcorder

Sony Handycam HDR-CX150 is available in the small size and attractive price, but this bare bones camcorder just barely delivers on the promise of HD quality. The image quality, size and the function of the camera is fantastic. It has a 2 hour battery life.
http://www.thesonyworld.com/sony-handycam-hdr-cx150.html

Jim R Nov 10, 2010 9:50 PM

Pass Thru Link

PJ,

Thanks again......time to do some searching

PapaJohn Nov 9, 2010 10:24 PM

DV Camcorders with 'pass-thru' feature

Here's one site with a list....

http://www.homevideo101.com/dv-camcorders-with-pass-through/

Jim R Nov 9, 2010 9:03 PM

Thanks

Thanks for the info. The Sony TRV-80 must be in demand as I didn't find a single one on eBay. I will do some more research.
Thanks again,
Jim

PapaJohn Nov 9, 2010 9:00 PM

Jim....

No you don't need to use a Hi8 camcorder. Yours is fine. The Hi8 gets me the S-video connection for higher video quality.

PapaJohn Nov 9, 2010 8:53 PM

Hi Jim.... about the 'pass thru'

My mini-DV camcorder has RCA cable connections (red-white-yellow).... and a higher quality S-video connection.

It uses the same connections to go out to another device or into the camcorder. I use them as inputs (without a tape in the camcorder) when doing 'pass-thru' and the DV connection with a firewire cable to go from the camcorder to the computer.

The RCA connections are analog.. so the source can be anything analog... a camcorder, VCR player, TV, etc.

Not all digital camcorders have a 'pass-thru' feature. Mine is a more expensive Sony TRV-80 that happens to have the option. Sorry, I don't have a list of other brands and models that also have the feature, As my model is about 7 years old.I'd expect you to be able to purchase a used one relatively cheaply.

Jim R Nov 9, 2010 6:39 PM

8mm to PC

On you webpage you wrote about getting 8mm tapes into your PC. You said that you "e tapes into my computer today, I play them in a Hi8 camcorder and use the 'pass-thru' method of my mini-DV camcorder, which does the conversion to Digital Video (DV-AVI files)."
Is it necessary to use a Hi8 as the playback machine or can I just use the regular Sony 8mm camcorder that originally recorded the 8mm tapes as the playback to the mini-DV camcorder?
Also, do all mini-DVs have the pass through feature you mention? If not could you list some that do? Also would you describe how you wired this up between the 8mm and the mini-DV?
Thanks for all your time.
Jim

PapaJohn Sep 8, 2010 1:11 PM

Hi Michael.....

the webcam capture feature is in the latest beta version that's available to the public..... the link to it is on the same page as the regular download.

note that you can't have both the final release and the beta on the same computer.

Michael Sep 8, 2010 4:28 AM

Use webcam to record video

Hi John
I recently installed Windows7 and just downloaded Windows live on my laptop as per your advise. I did not find the feature to record my video through my inbuiltwebcam in movie maker. In Windows XP I could record from my inbuilt webcam. Pl help on this issue.

PapaJohn Aug 17, 2010 1:35 AM

Hi Kelowna....

The article applies only to my mini-DV TRV-80, a standard DV camcorder, not HighDef. As I don't have a HiDef camcorder and havn't borrowed one to test, I'm not qualified to make any comments or suggestions.

peterkelowna Aug 16, 2010 3:26 PM

High Def

Hi, Does all this information apply to Capture of High Definition? Or is this thread only about SD?
I bought a new Vista laptop last year. Caputres SD just fine, but no go on HD.
I purchased Pinnacle Studio 12. Again,..no go. It would recoginze the camera and display
the first frame of video then go blank.

My wife is now using the Vista laptop an I will be buying a new Win 7 machine.
What should I consider assuming I want to be able to play with all my High Def tape?
Should I also buy that express card that's been mentioned?
Thanks from Kelowna

PapaJohn Jul 15, 2010 10:37 PM

Hi Linda...

Some USB devices work with Movie Maker.... others don't. If you have a device it's easier to try it than it is to research if it will or won't work.

My Dazzle 80 black box is a USB device to capture analog video and it works fine for me with XP's MM2.1. But in WIndows 7 it's the only thing I've found so far that will give me the old 'blue-screen-of-death' and promply crash my full system. Dazzle doesn't claim it works with Windows 7.

Besides the Dazzle I have a printer, a scanner, an internal TV tuner, etc.... that don't work in the Windows 7 environment. I try the things I have and sort out what works or doesn't regardless of marketing claims. There's also the compatability mode setting to try... I've got some software that kicks in and works OK when I tell it run as in XP but doesn't work unless I do.

Linda Jul 15, 2010 10:05 PM

Same page...

Re:

"I'm wondering if we're on the same page.... Movie Maker and the Photo Gallery capture wizard are for captures via firewire, not USB.... for USB Movie Maker punts to whatever software came with your camera/camcorder."

That's somewhat helpful....so I won't bother trying to do through USB again. And I'll pass that info on to the computer tech here too.

The day before yesterday when I tried to run the USB software CD that came with my camcorder, I got the message that it was incompatible with Windows 7.

After I installed WMM live, it didn't work and it couldn't find the driver...but obvioulsy, you're saying that's because USB doesn't even work with WMM. I should have known that. *smacks forehead*

I KNEW that USB didn't work with WMM in 2004, lol. The only thing USB worked with was my Samsung software that I had at the time and the quality SUCKED. I should have realized this wouldn't work either. Doh.

So after I found that the quality was horrible with the Samsung software, that's when I got the IEEE card (& cables) that slid into the slot on my older laptops with the card slot. And that worked perfectly on any laptop with a card slot and XP. A bit cumbersome but worked fine for 6 years.

So the critical question is....

Do you think that the USB to express card and the express card to firewire and using my 4pin will make it compatible or will that be a waste of $90? Local tech is doubtful that it will work. But then again, he thought USB should work...in 2004 and now, lol.

Thanks for your patience!

Linda

PapaJohn Jul 15, 2010 9:20 PM

Linda...

I'm wondering if we're on the same page.... Movie Maker and the Photo Gallery capture wizard are for captures via firewire, not USB.... for USB Movie Maker punts to whatever software came with your camera/camcorder.

6 pin versus 4 pin doesn't make a difference as camcorder's have their own power, not needing it from the computer.

Linda Jul 15, 2010 7:34 PM

AVS Capture Wizard

I'm trying to download this:

http://www.windows7download.com/win7-avs-capture-wizard/sjjcoauo.html

Screencap looks a lot like the old XP WMM:

http://www.windows7download.com/win7-avs-capture-wizard/screenshot-sjjcoauo.html

So far, it's still doing a never-ending spinning circle of trying to contact the download location...

Tried 5 different times after letting it spin for 10 minutes.

Linda

Linda Jul 15, 2010 6:51 PM

Re: Windows Acquire Video Device

Hi,

Me again...

Just to be sure.... this is what I downloaded before:
http://explore.live.com/windows-live-essentials?os=win7 (except I only chose to install WMM and Photo Gallery)

Is there anything else that you can think of that should download to help the laptop to recognize my camcorder? Any of the other versions of WMM that you mentioned?

Re:

"The Windows Live suite, with it's Video Acquire Wizard tucked into the Photo Gallery folder with Windows Live Movie Maker resolved it. After downloading and installing the suite, connecting the camcorder resulted in it being recognized. The needed driver was automatically found and installed in a few seconds"

I decided to try plugging in the camcorder again.

Yesterday when I opened Photo Gallery, I found the Video Acquire Wizard.

Now, when I open Photo Gallery and click File and Import from a camera or scanner, the window pops up saying Import Videos or Images and if you do not see your device listed, make sure it is connected to you computer and turned on and click refresh. All that shows up is my printer.

Soooooooooooo... I thought that I'd try the Video Acquire Wizard again but...I'm not seeing the Video Acquire Wizard listed anywhere now. Where the heck did I find it before? Or does it only show up if you're plugging in a device that you haven't plugged in before?

Linda

Linda Jul 15, 2010 5:35 PM

Windows 7 laptop without firewire

I just typed up a nice response and tried to scroll up and it all went bye-bye! Windows7 has some nice features but it does weird things sometimes and right now, I just want my old laptop with XP on it baaaaaaaaaack!

Shortened version:

Thanks for responding PapaJohn.

The tech dude where I bought the laptop isn't convinced that the USB to express card + express card to firewire will solve the problem but I've asked him to order anyhow. If it doesn't, I'll be selling this 15" (I hope) and buying another with firewire. I need something more portable for travel.

I do need a new 17", so gonna get one of those because hopefully THAT should work. Deciding between a Gateway P-7803 that I can get from the computer techie place for $800 (they'll work on it right there) (he thinks it has 6pin) and an HP dvd7-3157ca with a 4pin from Staples for $997.00. The one from Staples should be faster...downside, they don't do over the phone tech support.

I'll let you know how I make out with the express card thing. If it doesn't work, I'll be lugging a 17" around for 2 weeks! Ugh.

Other than downloading Windows Live, there's nothing you can think of that would help the laptop recognize the camcorders through the USB port?

Off to find the other forum.

Linda

PapaJohn Jul 13, 2010 11:48 PM

Hi Linda....

Looks like I answered your other other comment before reading this one... yes, I agree with you that the ExpressCard to firewire adapter seems to be the way to go. Let us know if it works well for you as I may be following your path one of these years.

Linda Jul 13, 2010 7:02 PM

Hi,

I bought this new acer laptop assuming all new laptops would come with firewire. I was wrong. I posted in your other article and realized my post should have been here instead because what I'm trying to do is to import video from my Mini DV Sony Camcorder onto my laptop.

I always used to use my TRV33 to do it because it was straight-forward. I also have a DCR-PC350 with a handycam station. Before finding your article and installing Movie Maker & Photogallery from Windows Live, I'd tried running a USB driver installation CD that came with the TRV33 and Windows 7 wouldn't install because it was incompatible (driver meant for XP).

After I found your article about versions of wmm for Windows 7 and installing windows live, I once again tried plugging in the camcorder using USB because the laptop has no firewire to plug the DV into, so it installed the first and last USB items no problem but was unable to find a USB driver.

In your opinion, would getting a ExpressCard adapter + ExpressCard to Firewire adapter solve the issue or am I stuck with buying another laptop with firewire and/or a new camcorder?

Linda

PapaJohn Jul 11, 2010 2:47 PM

I'm confused too....

Hi destiny..... I can't begin to suggest anything without knowing a bit about what version of Windows you're using, what version of Movie Maker, the brand and model of your camcorder or camera..... or wherever you're trying to import your files from....

That and other info about what you've been trying and what doesn't work is needed.... confusion is too general a thing to respond to.

destiny Jul 11, 2010 1:58 PM

im confused

i want to import and im confused how to do it please write back and write how to do it simply

PapaJohn Jun 23, 2010 2:01 PM

Hi Ariene

Maybe this page of my website will help....

http://www.papajohn.org/MM2-Importing-PowerPoint.html

Ariane Jun 23, 2010 11:40 AM

Converting a power point presentation to video

Does anyone have any knowledge or information on how to convert a power point presentation to video? My co-worker told me he found a whole bunch of software packages that do this, but needs some recommendations? We have about 7 power point presentations that have videos attached (linked) to the presentation and we need to turn it into a stand alone document to put up on a website. We're thinking the only way to do this is to convert it to a video, at which time it would be a single, stand alone document. Any ideas or suggestions? Thanks much. --Ariane

PapaJohn Jun 19, 2010 11:19 AM

Hi Cal....

I tried my Dazzle 80 which worked in XP... it was the only thing that resulted in a total system crash of my Windows 7 computer (32 bit). I use the 'pass-thru' feature of my mini-DV camcorder to capture analog video.

I don't have a DVC100 to try... it might work as it captures differently than the Dazzle 80. My computer shook off the crash OK so I wouldn't hesitate trying it.

Cal Jun 19, 2010 2:38 AM

Win 7 (64) + Dazzle DVC100 + movie maker? for analog video import

Hi PapaJohn,

I've been reading your responses on a variety of different websites, but can't find anything indicating that you have successfully been able to import analog video into movie maker using a Dazzle device and Win7. From what I've read online, I'm thinking about trying Win7 + Dazzle DVC100 (Win7 driver from Pinnacle) + movie maker 2.1 connected to a VHS player. Any thoughts on whether this will work or whether there is some other combination of software versions that will allow me to capture analog video using a DVC100 into some version of movie maker and while running Win7 (64)?

Thanks!
Cal

John Rossetti Jun 14, 2010 7:19 PM

Solved ish..

Hi PJ. Thanks for that, I didnt even know about WLMM. I re-edited the Fraps agin on WLMM saved it and imported into WMM added the titles and music, now uploaded ! bit jerky though. Thanks a lot.

PapaJohn Jun 14, 2010 12:34 AM

Hi John....

Issues like that are typically related to codecs... and the easiest way to resolve it is to do file conversions of the source files before using them in a project.

I just checked FRAPS on my 32 bit Windows 7 laptop, capturing a video playing in Windows Photo Gallery. The saved file uses the FRAPS codec.... which previewed fine in the collection of MM2.6 and a project in Windows Live Movie Maker.

On the timeline of MM2.6 it sounded good but the visual was just blackness. As it looked and sounded good in WLMM I tried publishing it from there and the published wmv file was good. That means, if I was in your situation and had invested lots of time in an MM2.6 project..... I could

- run the source files through WLMM to get wmv files
- rename the wmv files to align exactly with the avi files you're using.... and put them in the same folder... so MM2.6 would use the new files in place of the originals.

Movie Maker usually likes wma audio more than other types, even uncompressed.... and you might try re-registering the DV codec to see if it resolves your DV-AVI issue.

John Rossetti Jun 13, 2010 10:08 PM

Windows 7 & WMM 2.6.4

Hi PJ, I persisted and edited my first video, in W7, the material came from using FRAPS, a piece of software I purchased to record AVI files from Railway Simulator, Ive edited it fine, its about 8 mins long has some simple titles. it plays fine in WMM although WMM will only let me save it in DV-AVI (PAL), but thats fine, the problem is that any audio that has a fade in at the beginning of that scene comes out mute on the final version, other scenes in between without a fade are fine the final file is 1.7Gb, Ive put lots of these videos on YouTube (search for Sheephatch) before without problems but W7 and WMM beats me this time. Any clues please.

PapaJohn May 14, 2010 2:23 PM

ariane

The subject of codecs is the most difficult part of movie making.... few AVI codecs are provided by Microsoft, so following the path they provide often leaves you at a dead end, as they don't provide specific info about codecs made or provided by others.

I use this page of my website to provide links to the few codec sources I suggest and use....

http://www.papajohn.org/Setup-Codecs.html

The ffdshow or VideoSpin links might get you what is needed in your case.... if not, I take the route of doing file conversions and not seeking other codecs. That gets you to this website page....

http://www.papajohn.org/ConversionUtilities.html

ariane May 14, 2010 1:48 PM

Downloading codecs for avi files

Okay, one more question for you. When I'm trying to import an avi file into windows movie maker, I get this message.

"The file C:\Documents and Settings\Ariane\My Documents\My Videos\*********\CLIP0002.AVI cannot be imported because the codec required to play the file is not installed on your computer. If you have already tried to download and install the codec, close and restart Windows Movie Maker, and then try to import the file again."

Questions: If importing an avi into movie maker requires for me to download specific codecs, then is there a place I can get these codecs and download them? The avi files seem to be smaller than the wmv files, so I would rather import a smaller file. Thanks again for your help.

PapaJohn May 14, 2010 12:40 PM

Hi ariane...

WMV and AVI are both highly general file types. Each can be made with any number of different codecs. It's like ordering desert as cake or ice cream and then finding out there are many different flavors and choices of each.

WMV is a Microsoft file type so Microsoft's Movie Maker is more apt to work OK with it. AVI is more universally used and the ability of Movie Maker to use it depends on what codecs are needed and on your system.

Compression settings can vary considerably. A WMV file for an email would be a small size compared to one for a DVD.... It's your choice of quality settings that make for the different file sizes with larger files typically being of higher quality..

ariane May 14, 2010 9:19 AM

importing avi vs wmv

Hi. I tried what you suggested with clearing the line items under compatibility, and it did make some improvements. I was still not able to import the avi file, but I converted it to wmv and was able to import the clips as wmv. But the file more than doubled in size when I converted to wmv. This seemed very strange to me. The avi file was about 87M and when I converted to wmv, it became over 200 M. Why did it get so much bigger. And why was I able to import a wmv but not an avi file. Okay, thanks for your help.

PapaJohn May 13, 2010 10:35 PM

John....

Here's a page on my website that has some info...

http://www.papajohn.org/MM2-Samples.html

I'm making some to bring the page more up to date.

Ariane May 13, 2010 9:29 AM

Problems importing avi files

Thanks, I will try that and get back to youl

John Rossetti May 13, 2010 4:15 AM

Output Files

Hi, is there a article that explains, as a table maybe, the sizes, eg (640x480) of the final output file, all the descriptions seem to be listed, eg fast broadband, hi quality pal etc etc

PapaJohn May 13, 2010 3:31 AM

ariane...

You seem to have usual codec issues.... try unchecking all line items in your Tools > Options > Compatibility List. If that doesn't resolve it, post with more details to the forums at windowsmoviemakers.net where you'll get more help than I can provide here.

http://www.windowsmoviemakers.net/Forums/

Explain the source(s) of the files. AVI is a generic container for any number of different ones.

ariane May 12, 2010 5:25 PM

Can't import large files into Movie Maker

follow up to previous comment. Anyone have any ideas on not being able to import? Thanks.

ariane May 12, 2010 5:24 PM

Importing video into Movie Maker 2.1

I'm having a problem with importing avi files into movie maker 2.1. I thought it was the memory on my computer, but I upgraded the memory and I still have problems importing. I tried importing a 97 MB avi file and the top bar fills up, but the botton horizontal bar won't fill up, and then I get an error message from Microsoft saying, Microsoft has encountered a problem and needs to close." then it gives the option to send or not send the error report. I had 1 GB of my computer, and added a 2GB memory card. So why can't I import these video clips. And previously I had converted a huge file (240 MB) from avi to mpg, but then could not import it. What's going on with the import feature?

PapaJohn May 9, 2010 7:51 PM

Express card....

Gabriel.... I'd be glad to suggest one but the closest I've gotten to one is having an express card slot in my laptop and having used it for a phone connection.... Maybe someone else who has firewire or USB experiences will comment.

All I can suggest is to purchase one locally with the understanding that you can return it for a full refund if it doesn't work with your computer/camcorder.

Gabriel May 9, 2010 12:13 PM

Card

Ok so i tried about everything, it is probably the card. could you recomend me a link of a express card? one that does not cost a lot please. I just want it to make sure it will work this time.
Thank you from now

PapaJohn May 1, 2010 10:25 PM

when it comes to cameras and....

... capture devices, it's a trial and error thing..... try each thing in as many different places you can until you can zero in on the issue.

Gabriel May 1, 2010 10:01 PM

Help

It is not needed to install anything with the expresscard, when i bought it it said that a cd wasnt needed and that itd work wit windows 7. When i put it in the laptop it said that it was sucssefully installed. It might be the Card because when i tried to put the camera in my brothers pc it said the same (he has windows 7).

PapaJohn Apr 30, 2010 3:04 PM

Hi Gabriel....

I guess the express card is the first thing to check. Did you get the driver software with it and install it? did your system recognize the card before you plugged the camcorder in and try to auto-install a driver?

Gabriel Apr 29, 2010 1:27 AM

Camcorder with Expresscard

Hello, I'm using windows 7 and i just got a Sony DCR-VX1000 which uses mini DV, i got a expresscard IEEE1394 and nothing pops up when i plug the camera in. I installed the windows live(just installed is that all i had to do?) and nothing happened when i pluged it in again. I dont know what to do,
Thank you from now. Gabriel

PapaJohn Apr 10, 2010 11:52 PM

Responses to Comments....

Ben.... the Windows Media Encoder has a screen capture feature. There are two versions, the classic Windows Media 9 encoder, and the new Expression one... see these pages of my website (www.papajohn.org) for info and links.

Setup Movie Maker > Codecs and Compressors.... and Expression > Expression Encoder

John.... MM2.1 is a 32 bit app and I use the same command line as I do on 32 bit systems.... I use a batch file, not a program, and run it from my thumb drive in the folder that has MM.1.... the typical line in the batch file reads:

regsvr32 q:\Copy\MM2-1\wmm2ae.dll

See my website's Setup Movie Maker > MM2.1 for more info.

john.rossetti@btinternet.com Apr 10, 2010 10:25 PM

2.1 for W7

Thank you for that reply, I'm using W7 64bit, which programme do I use to register the DLL please.

Ben Apr 10, 2010 9:24 PM

record using computer

HI there!

I bought my fiance a Sony Vaio running windows 7 and windows live movie maker. We do not have an external video camera or camcorder, so we currently have no need for the importing option. Is it possible to record directly from the computer? I use iMovie on my Mac to record direct from my computer, can I do the same with her Sony?
Thank you!

PapaJohn Mar 25, 2010 11:49 PM

Hi Senior....

Perhaps, but MM2.1 works without being in XP emulation mode... by registering the DLLs.

Senior User Mar 25, 2010 11:29 PM

2.1 in XP

Just an idea... what about using the XP version of Movie Maker in a W7 system with XP emulation mode running ?

PapaJohn Mar 3, 2010 12:30 PM

Giacomo....

In Windows Live Movie Maker the left-most dropdown (all the way to the left of the tabs) menu has a choice of 'Import from device'. That opens the import wizard.

The wizard itself is WLXVideoAcqireWizard.exe in the c:\Program Files\Windows LIve\Photo Gallery\ folder. You can open it without having WLMM open.

Giacomo Mar 3, 2010 12:11 PM

Record-Capture-Import Video

We have a new Lenovo ThinkPad with an integrated camera, running Windows 7. The installed software includes the appropriate driver for the camera, but no application or utility to actually operate the camera. The manufacturer tells me that we must rely on 3d party software for this. I would just like to create small video clips using the integrated camera, save them as files, and perhaps attach them to emails. I have downloaded the complete Windows Live Essentials Suite, but I do not find any "Video Acquire Wizard". I find nothing in the Movie Maker application that would allow me to run the camera to create videos. If MovieMaker won't help me, what will? I'm certain that I'm lacking fundamental information as to how to go about this. But I'm guessing you can elucidate. Thanks for any help.

PapaJohn Mar 2, 2010 2:49 PM

Gloria, that's another one for my website's...

Problem Solving section and online forums for needed support.

Gloria Mar 2, 2010 2:16 PM

Windows 7 and WMM

I am trying to save my movie and when it does save the music will scratchy or it will leave out some of the pictures and there will just be a black space. Now its telling me it cannot save. I have a new computer with lots of space so I know its not that.
HELP!!!!

PapaJohn Mar 2, 2010 12:47 PM

Gloria... my website at www.papajohn.org

has a Problem Solving section with a page devoted to audio issues. The section says XP but MM2.6 is a version created from MM2.1 so many things are the same or similar (guess it's time to remove that menu pointer to XP.. thanks).

Audio issues are often related to the type of source file your using and its settings... which conversion before adding to a project resolves. If the website isn't enough, use the forums at www.windowsmoviemakers.net for more help.

Gloria Mar 2, 2010 11:20 AM

Windows 7

I have Windows 7 and have finished a movie with 2.6 Windows Movie Maker but the music is scratchy and skips. Any ideas would be helpful.

PapaJohn Feb 28, 2010 11:22 PM

Amy, yes you would need to use MM1 or MM2.1...

.... to capture to WMV files.

Amy Feb 28, 2010 5:59 PM

Importing WMV with MM 2.6

Since MM 2.6 doesn't have the Capture feature, I cant really use that to import as WMV, correct? Or is there a way to import as WMV when the only versions I have installed are MM 2.6 and Windows Live Movie Maker.

PapaJohn Feb 26, 2010 6:14 PM

Hi Amy....

the info about getting the other version is in the other article in this series '5 Versions of Windows Movie Maker Running On Windows 7'.... use the link at the end of this article.

Windows Live Movie Maker co-exists fine with other versions. MM2.6 is the easiest to setup as it's a simple download./install from a Microsoft site.

amy Feb 26, 2010 5:45 PM

Importing as WMV instead of AVI

PapaJohn, you mention in a previous comment response to Scott that importing as WMV instead of AVI can be done in classic versions of Movie Maker. Where can I get one of these classic versions, and will having the classic version installed on the same computer as the Windows Live MM version be okay?

Thanks so much for your help!

Bill Miller Feb 23, 2010 2:12 PM

New to all this, little help please.

I'm new to video capturing, and I will be filming guitar lessons and will need to capture video from my Sony cam, and audio from ? (cam has external mics which is no good, I need to capture audio from my guitar pedal which has analog or Sp/DIF output signals).

So I guess I need the Black Magic Design Intensity Pro capture card?

Here's what I have so far:

New HP computer, windows 7, AMD quad core processor, 8 gig memory, 1 TB hard-rive.

Sony Handycam HDR-CX-150 (has HDMI and also AV outs)

Pinnacle software.

I will want to record direct to the PC and capture Video from the handy-cam and audio from my guitar pedal.

Worried that I can capture video and audio from two different inputs and have it in sync.

Am I looking at the right stuff here?

PapaJohn Feb 21, 2010 2:37 PM

Don.... that's the way the classic versions of Movie Maker work....

It wasn't until MM6 in Vista that imported video clips would go into your selected collection. Although MM2.6 was made for Vista users, its features were like those of MM2.1 in XP.

When you make a comment it gets passed to me by a Bright Hub email... I have to approve it before it gets posted.... so it could take hours or more if I'm not sitting at my computer watching for emails. As far as one you posted and I never saw... as my backlog is usually zero I guess it's lost in the process and neither one of us would know why. If comments got immediately posted without such a review, the site would quickly fill up with SPAM... if you don't see it soon enough, post a duplicate and I'll approve the first and delete the dups.

Don Stouder Feb 21, 2010 1:18 PM

Collections Problem with MM 2.6 in Win 7

PapaJohn,

I hope this question gets through. Tried before but never saw it posted. ???

As the title says, I'm running MM 2.6 on a 64-bit Win 7 PC. When I try to import videos or still images into a Collection, eact file is made a sub-collection rather than being shown as items underneath or port of the target Collection.

What's happening?

TIA

Don S.

PapaJohn Feb 18, 2010 12:44 PM

Dennis....

It's a good exercise to explore how 'one driver fits all' doesn't mean that all software can use a driver or use it the same way.

Once kicked into gear, it should stay there.

Dennis Feb 18, 2010 11:55 AM

Camcorder not Recognized

OK; this one is going to haunt me! I worked with Microsoft and Studio did not see the Cam. But since you said Studio 11 saw it, I decided to drag the Cam back out and give it another try. For sure, Studio 14 recognized my Panasonic Cam and Imported Video...go Figure?

I also got a got from a Microsoft USA Tech person; I had written to Microsoft expressing how disappointed I was about this issue and to my surprise...I got a call. He advises, as you did, MM has its own library of drivers....and said that he was going to send off a message to the designer team that those drivers in MM need to be migrated into W7 to allow older DV Camcorders to be seen in W7. Guess you were thus far my Lucky Charm, 1st with using MM, then with your reply Studio 11 saw your Camera.....and now, Studio 14 sees mine...I sure hope it keeps seeing it.

PapaJohn Feb 17, 2010 11:05 PM

Pinnacle Studio 11

for info, I just did a test capture from my Sony mini-DV camcorder using Pinnacle Studio 11 on my Windows 7 32 bit desktop system. It worked fine, capturing it to a type II DV-AVI file.

Dennis Feb 17, 2010 5:52 PM

Thanks; I previously looked at that site but what concerns me is exactly what a site like this is actually installing on your PC....can it be deleted, and if deleted, does the Removal really remove all of it. I cannot image what it would fine, it looks like its geared more for Hardware that is always attached...Mouse\Monitor, etc. I am guessing if used, the Camcorder would need to be plugged in. I did get a reply from Pinnacle\Studio....they advise DV Camcorders basically all use the same Microsoft Driver....one size fits all. They said they thought if the DV Cam displayed in Device Mgr, it didn't matter if it did not display in MY COMPUTER, Studio should see it. Like all Tech units, when you cannot come up with a fix, recommend Reformatting and a Clean Install of the OS...which I have no intentions of doing...there is no guarantee all that work would result in resolving the issue. It is just lucky for me that I found your site and the recommendation to Install Windows Live MM. Its not perfect, the Transferred Video in MM didn't always split the Clips......

I guess I can hope Microsoft will get back to me.....but I guess I dreaming.

PapaJohn Feb 17, 2010 3:33 PM

Panasonic Driver Wizard

Here's a utility that might help those with Panasonic devices....

http://driverwhiz.com/drivers-en?brand=Panasonic&logo=Panasonic&subid=1001-us-en-10000001915&gclid=CKfKrqub-p8CFRDxDAod0xpkbQ

Dennis Feb 17, 2010 3:07 PM

Camcorder Not Recognized

Update; Microsoft advises that the issue must be that W7lacks the correct driver for my POanasonic PV-DC252 DV Camcorder. They understand the Live MM has the correct driver in its Driver Wizard but at this time do not know where to secure that driver. They advised that they will do further reseach and get back to me.

I wrote Stuio\Pinnacle....they advise that the beauty of DV Cameras is that all OS provide the driver, They say they have seen this issue before where the Cam is in Device Mgr but the Software does not see it (they calim that if its in Device Mgr even though its not in MY COMPUTER...their Software should see it)....that it was corrected in some cases by performing a Clean Install of the OS system on a newly Formatted drive. In my case given what I would have to go thru to install the OS clean, the time and issues I might run into are just not worth it.

I have also written to Panasonic but I doubt they will provide anything helpful.

I may try to seuce a friends newer CAM to see what takes place ....I am concerned no DV CAM with W7 will be seen by Win7.

PapaJohn Feb 12, 2010 10:44 PM

Dennis.... I see my camcorder in My Computer

on an XP system.... but don't have any Vista systems left to check further. There's nothing more I can add at this point but I'm interested in what feedback you receive.

Dennis Feb 12, 2010 9:00 PM

Mirosoft DV Camera and VCR

I didn't mention that my Camcorder was recognized and seen in MY COMPUTER when connected via Firewire when I was running Vista. What puzzles me is, if Microsoft includes the driver inside its MM that is needed in my case to see and allow me to transfer Video, then why not make the same driver available in Win7. I doubt that I will find the Microsoft DV Camera and VCR driver and that is just perplexing. I did use MM to import the video and then I imported the avi files into Studio. I did contact Microsoft Tech, they didn't suggest MM, they wanted me to upgrade from Home Prem to Professional so that XP could be installed which they said would resolve this issue and my Camcorder would be seen in My Computer so other Video editing software would see my camcorder. The other issue that makes no sense to me is, if its seen in Device Mgr, and it shows as working properly, then why shouldn't it appear in MY COMPUTER.

Your article was very helpful, it allowed me to transfer the Video and saved me the expense of upgrading to another version of Win7. I have written Microsoft and Studio Tech asking them if they could locate the driver used by MM..

PapaJohn Feb 12, 2010 5:09 PM

thanks for the comment Dennis...

Seems like we're in sync. I just checked a few things....

- a camcorder isn't usually seen in My Computer when connected by firewire.... as cameras connected by USB are seen. My camcorder shows in Device Mgr as 'Sony DV Camcorder'.

- the driver for my Win7 32 bit system is c:\Windows\system32\drivers\msdv.sys

- Microsoft and other 3rd party drivers might not be shared.... for example the Panasonic DV codec can be used by Pinnacle Studio but not by any version of Movie Maker, and my Pinnacle Studio 11 can't use the msdv.sys driver to see my camcorder. I see it as a trial and error process, as you hunt for what works with your hardware and software. I end up capturing with Microsoft apps and using the DV-AVI files in Pinnacle Studio or other apps.

Dennis Feb 12, 2010 3:39 PM

Microsoft DV Camera and VCR

My Camcorder which I connect via 1394 is seen in Device Mgr but not in MY COMPUTER. So Studio nor Adobe sees the Camcorder rendering the softwares useless. After eading this article I Installed Windows Live MM and when you open and click Import from Device, it sees my Camcorder..its Device driver shows my Camcorder as Microsoft DV Camera and VCR whereas W7 in Device Mgr, when Camcorder is connected, shows Panasonic DV Camera. If I could find the W7 Home Prem 32 Bit Driver, "Microsoft DV Camera and VCR" and install it in my PC, I could then Update the driver in Device Mgr to this driver and my other Video Editing Software would see my Camcorder.

Can this Microsoft DV Camera and VCR driver be downloaded? Its included in Live MM, its a Microsoft driver.....how can I get it?

PapaJohn Feb 4, 2010 2:17 AM

I understand Tim....

I'm still using MM2.1 on an XP laptop as my main movie making machine.

Adobe Premiere Elements and Cyberlink's Power Director are a couple to consider.

Tim Feb 3, 2010 7:31 PM

Latest Windows Movie Maker

PapaJohn, this is depressing. with my fancy new Win 7 computer, i was hoping for a faster, better, cooler way to make movies ... but after trying the new WMM (downloaded), it seems like it doesn't do half of the old program, and it's confusing for an old dog. This might be sacreligious here, but if I wanted to buy a third-party movie making program, do you have any recs?

PapaJohn Jan 24, 2010 11:55 PM

.... can be done in Windows 7 using classic versions of Movie Maker. I just did a session with MM2.1. DV-AVI is the default and only option using Windows LIve apps.

Scott Jan 24, 2010 8:26 AM

importing as WMV instead of AVI

Great article! Thanks! One problem I'm having. I just don't see how to import the video as WMV instead of AVI. Where is that option? My goal is to show the video on my XBOX360, and AVI doesn't seem to work. BTW, I'm using firewire to grab the video off of my Sony camcorder. Thanks! -scott

mizo mohamed Jan 17, 2010 4:02 PM

i wnt this prog

mohamed Jan 10, 2010 1:02 AM

download movie maker 2.6

PapaJohn Jan 4, 2010 1:58 PM

thanks for the followup post Bert

.... something to add to my website page

bert Jan 4, 2010 1:48 PM

ah solved it:
1- Click the Start Button, type devmgmt.msc in the “Start Search” box and press Enter.
2- Expand the "IEEE 1394 Bus Host Controllers" node in the device tree on the right hand pane
3- Right click the host controller node select "Update driver software ..."
4- Select "Browse my computer for driver software"
5- Select "let me pick from a list of device driver on my computer ..." and Check the box before “Show compatible hardware”.
6. Choose the second option---1394 OHCI Compliant Host Controller (Legacy), and click next to update the driver.

Bert Jan 4, 2010 1:24 PM

Hello Papa John,
i got windows 7 64bit. I installed Photo Gallery and Windows Live Movie Maker.
Now when I connect my camcorder (Panasonic nv dx100) i get the message that it's already being used and that I've got to shut down the software that using in, while i haven't opened any software not even photogallery or moviemaker.
Can you help me or anyone else reading this?

PapaJohn Dec 21, 2009 10:34 PM

Steve... Optura 40 pass-thru....

If you can successfully use pass-thru on an XP or Vista system and it's a Windows 7 issue, Microsoft Answers would be the place to get more help.

If pass-through doesn't work on any computer, then Canon tech support might be your best bet....

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&tabact=SupportDetailTabAct&fcategoryid=227&modelid=10078

This URL at Canon tech support indicates there might be an issue with your model camcorder when dubbing via the DV terminal.

steve Dec 21, 2009 7:07 PM

Yes, I'm using a Canon Optura 40 camcorder that has pass-through capability, and I did install the Windows Live suite (at least the relevant portions). For some reason the microsoft software just thinks there should be a tape in that camcorder. Like I said, I have seen the vedeo on the computer screen, and it has recorded a couple seconds until it realizes there is no tape in the camcorder and stops...

PapaJohn Dec 21, 2009 6:18 PM

Steve.... about your pass-thru issue

Assuming you've downloaded and installed the Windows Live suite, and that your firewire connection/camcorder setup is working fine to import from a tape in the camcorder, it seems to boil down to your camcorder.

Not all mini-DV camcorders support pass-thru. Have you confirmed it has the feature?

Steve Dec 21, 2009 5:58 PM

Analog - Digital Passthrough Problem

I'm trying to capture video on my computer (Windows 7) using analog - digital pass through. My computer sees the video and will even record for a second or two, then I get a message that it wants a tape (mini DV) in my camcorder, which of course I don't need, since the digital camcorder is just being used to convert the analog to digital. I try putting in a blank mini DV, and it tries to play the blank tape. Help?!?

PapaJohn Dec 6, 2009 2:27 AM

... to DP

thanks for the positive note.... here's an extract from my website's Windows Live > Intro page.... about importing from my mini-DV camcorder.

"....I found that doing the whole tape effectively results in a set of individual DV-AVI files, but manually selecting part of a tape creates a single large DV-AVI file...".

DP Dec 5, 2009 11:42 AM

auto detecting scenes in windows 7

First off - great article! Thanks so much for getting me off on the right foot. When I import from my Sony Mini DV camcorder via the Windows Live import wizard, they system is not auto detecting my scenes and breaking them into clips, regardless of the date time of the footage segments. It all just comes through as one big clip, even if I enable the option to Import Videos as Multipole Files under More Options of the wizard. MM2.1 in XP definitely autodected scenes and made muliple clips using this camer. It seems that i'm stuck having to manually break the clips up myself in Windows 7. Any ideas? Thanks!

Michel Nov 22, 2009 9:34 AM

Movie maker 2.6

Thank youuuu John. My mistake I was refering to Movie maker 2.6 which you adviced that I down load.
Worked fine in Windows 7. Once again Thanks
PS. I hope windows programers listen to costumers?

PapaJohn Nov 20, 2009 11:31 AM

Response to Michel

I've never used software named 'Movie Maker HP'... but I see it listed on various websites. That's not the Microsoft Movie Maker versions I'm writing about and you would need help elsewhere.

If you're referring to one of the Microsoft Windows Movie Maker versions in the article, the downloadable version 2.6 installs and runs on Windows 7 and the frame snapshot feature works the same as it does in Vista and MM2.1 in XP.

Michel Nov 20, 2009 9:05 AM

Capturing a picture from windows movie maker not working ? Also date and time from comcoder not shoving on finish movie ?

My previous version of movie maker Hp work fine in importing a picture from camcoder, and time and date was evident of finish product. Please help need ASP. Work in a legal profession.

Thank you

Dee Nov 15, 2009 7:03 PM

windows essentials

Thank you Papa John!----the photo gallery in essentials has allowed me to import---again thanks....Dee

Dee Nov 15, 2009 12:08 PM

do i just need the photo gallery or movie maker as well?----i already have mail etc.

PapaJohn Nov 15, 2009 11:53 AM

Windows Essentials....

Dee, it sure sounds like you're just missing the DV codec..... download and install the Windows LIve Essentials pack, which will have it included.

http://download.live.com/

Deanna Nov 15, 2009 11:41 AM

Dee

Ok---i apparently do not have the Windows Live Essentials Suite---it is not on here---yes i am using a firewire--maybe i do not have a DV driver installed--how do i find out? and where do i find it---and as for MM2---i thought i could download it and install it--guess not--i am obviously not too savvy with this stuff----clearly don't know what i am doing--the laptop does seem to recognize the camcorder--the first time i plugged it in, it said it was ready to use---Dee

PapaJohn Nov 15, 2009 12:16 AM

Response to Dee...

Hi Dee... the first hurdle to capturing from a mini-DV camcorder would be to get the DV driver installed. You don't mention the Windows Live Essentials suite, the package I use to get the driver.

I'm assuming you're using firewire and not a USB connection. Once the driver is installed, your usual ways of capturing via firewire should work.

There isn't an installation package for MM2.1 so I don't understand why you're getting such a warning if you're simply copying the files from XP to Windows 7.

Dee Nov 14, 2009 11:46 PM

capturing in windowa 7

Hi---I am very frustrated---trying to convert home vhs--i have a sony mini dv---and a new laptop w/windows 7---neither cyberlink power director, corel video studio, or windows media encoder will take in my video---i used to do this as a pass thru operation with sonic mydvd on my desktop with XP---i tried putting movie maker 2.1 on the new laptop, but a warning says it is not supported and the install did not complete---i must admit i am a bit afraid to put it on my new computer--it didn't work anyhow----is there anything else i can do or another method with 7?----some other program?--i really don't want to spend a bunch of money only to find out it doesn't work--perhaps i will still have to go thru the old computer--D

john elpop Oct 26, 2009 4:48 PM

thanksssss

john elpop Oct 26, 2009 4:47 PM

thanks very mush

PapaJohn Sep 12, 2009 5:18 PM

Response to comment

Ibrahim.... the importing from camcorder isn't done by anything included in Windows 7.

If you download and install the optional Windows Live Essentials suite, the import wizard in the Photo Gallery folder will be the tool to capture to either DV-AVI or WMV files, assuming you're using a DV camcorder connected by firewire.

Getting files from other cameras connected by USB would be by using other software, starting with whatever came with the camera..

Ibrahim Jun 6, 2009 9:23 PM

No option for WMV import in Live Photo Gallery?

Hi, I've been trying to figure this out, but is there any way to import to WMV in Windows 7? I realize I could probably just encode the DV-AVI file to WMV but having 10+GB files on my hard drive is a bit frustrating, and I feel like reencoding would cause the quality to suffer.