Is there any way to record via firewire either without a tape or with some sort of dummy tape?

Les

Unless there is something odd about the GS-120, you can connect it to your computer via firewire and record with just about any DV capture software (every DV camcorder I've ever connected via firewire works).

I have this camera. I just tried recording to one of my editing programs, and, like most other DV cams, it outputs what is currently in viewfinder to the editing capture program. Camera may shut down automatically when tape is not rolling, and you are on battery power. Just happened when I tried it.

Also be sure not to make mistake of trying to record through firewire, while you have camera set to photo mode.

What happens if you put the camera in "photo mode?"

Oops. I'm wrong about that one-- it still does send to firewire in photo mode.

I'm sorry, I wasn't clear. I'm trying to record video via the firewire port WITHOUT a dv tape in the camcorder. I am trying to record a church service that typically runs two hours. I am trying to record directly to the church computer with a dv capture program. Is this possible? Thanks for the quick replies!!!!

Les

Hi Les,

If you use normal power plug to supply the power, instead of the battery. I think that you can do your way without worryying the camcorder auto turn off the power. But you need to try yourself and it does not cost you anything to try.

Regards
Leigh

Les - You don't need to have a tape in the camcorder. You just connect it via firewire to your computer, turn it on, and tell your capture software to start recording (go ahead and try giving it a whirl). And yes, do power the camcorder with the A/C adapter, so it doesn't try to conserve battery power, by shutting down because it doesn't realize you are recording.

Thanks!!!!!

This helps tremendously!!!!


Les

BTW, you could still record to tape as a backup (while capturing to computer HDD), using 80 minute tapes in LP mode. That gives you 2 hours, but will be more prone to dropouts than SP and you may only be able to capture from the tape with the camera it was shot with, but at least you could get the whole service (unless it goes over the 2 hours) and have a backup in case the computer craps out (stuff happens). If you do that, I'd suggest using Panny's AMQ tapes (less prone to dropouts than standard tapes).

Thanks Robert. You and the others who have responded have been a great help. I am in the middle of finals at college and don't have the time to try some of your great suggestions until Wednesday, but I am sure now that I can get something to work.

Les