Copying miniDV tape from camcorder to iMovie

[billy boing]

ok, I saw a post re: Panasonice miniDv but it went straight to software advice etc. I need to know how to cable connect my Panasonic PV-GS83 miniDV (tape) camcorder to the iMac or MacBookPro I have so that when I am in iMovie I can put the movie in there and save/edit/etc. the video.
My camera says "digital video camera" but the only "out" connection is a single plug (like a mini-RCA ?) - and I believe it needs to go into a firewire. (?) but not sure.

Either way I have not seen a cable yet to do this. I found an "analog to digital" converter box but now after reading the posts here it appears my video is "digital" so that is not what I need.

Please help - please link to a cable or a provider or an answer.

I simply want to get my miniDV movies into iMovie.

Thanks so much for your attention and help! What can I do for you?

[cyclingplatypus]

According to the Panasonic site (http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/shop/Cameras-Camcorders/Camcorders/MiniDV-Camcorders/model.PV-GS83.S_11002_7000000000000005702) for your camera it has a MiniDV (IEEE 1394) port that you can use to transfer via mini firewire, kind of a rectangle port probably labeled DV IN/OUT.

[Apple Ink]

Sorry to say this... but the only way you're gonna achieve this is by using a firewire cable! Look for something called iLink! Also, post your Camcorder's Model No. here!:)

[cyclingplatypus]

Sorry to say this... but the only way you're gonna achieve this is by using a firewire cable! Look for something called iLink! Also, post your Camcorder's Model No. here!:)

He did put the model number in t=his original post.

Looks like your connection is underneath the battery. (found this in the manual)

[Apple Ink]

He did put the model number in t=his original post.

Looks like your connection is underneath the battery. (found this in the manual)

Sorry.... my bad:o

OK, so it seems like all you need to do is visit a store and grab a cheap iLink cable! Search ebay maybe and you'll find lots!:)

[drossad]

Yes, you can buy the cable you need on the internet somewhere, or you can get it at the Apple Store online under "cables" for Mac accessories. You will need a 6 pin to 4 pin cable.

[billy boing]

Wow, so simple - I feel a little stupid actually, but I did not see that under the battery !! You all are awesome, I can't wait to download my camera now!
Thanks again!

Hope I can do something for you one day.

[magiic]

check www.monoprice.com for all your cheap cabling needs

[RainForRent]

What a silly place to put a firewire port. My canon has it right up front.

[Apple Ink]

What a silly place to put a firewire port. My canon has it right up front.

My old Sony doesnt have any ports on itself except the dc! It has a docking port below it which connects to a station (included) which has a plethora of ports!

But still... used to be a pain in the a** until stopped using it full time!:rolleyes: