The XH A1 manual is sparse in the way it explains frame rate. Seems that when recording HD 30F then the spec would be 1080 30P. is this right? Also seems that the firewire port outputs this rate while component is converted to 60i within the camera. So if all above is right, then capture into FC Pro would be set to 1080 30P?

You are correct.

thx for the reply. I guess I should have looked at the specs of my FS-H200 a little more carefully before I bought it. Turns out it doesn't record 1080 30p. I have to use tape again........