not really sure where to put this.

But i just bought a Optura 20, and it only came with a USB2.0 cable...so i had to go BUY! a firewire cable to transfer video...

but my question is i am really new and am wondering how do i get my video to my computer now...do i need video editing software to capture it, or are there freeware progs i can use to just capture it to a file and edit it later?

Of course, you need a firewire port on your computer...I'll assume you have one.

You didn't mention your operation system, but XP's native
"Movie Maker" application will allow you to capture from your camcorder via firewire and do some editing.

You can buy any of the popular editing programs, or download trial versions of most of them, and they will allow you to capture video.

that sucks you didnt get the cable.

i orderd mine from b&h and i got usb, firewire, av and an s video cable in the canon box.

yeah i ordered from b&h as well..only usb, and compnent cables....damn it.

but i got xp now...it is all good.

When you order from B&H check to see if you are ordering the Kit or just the camera. If you order just the camera, then chances are you are not going to be getting a Firewire cable, as most manufacturers do not include this cable as standard. However, if you purchase the Kit, then the Firewire cable is included, along with some other stuff. Each Kit is different, depending on the camera. And the Kits are something that B&H does, not the manufacturer.