Can't Import or Open files from Hitachi DZ-HS300A Camcorder

Question

Can't Import or Open files from Hitachi DZ-HS300A Camcorder

I have a new MacBook Pro running OSX with IMovie 08 HD loaded on it. I just purchased an Hitachi DZ-HS300A Camcorder which has both a hard disk and DVD (but is not hi-def). Since the camcorder doesn't have a firewire port, I can't import from the camcorder but I have been able to move files from the camcorder to the MacBook using the software that came with the Hatachi. However, when I try to open the files in IMovie 08 HD I get en error message saying the format is incorrect and IMovie can't parse the file (MPEG 2 files).

Would an earlier version of IMovie handle the MPEG 2 files or do I need a conversion program of some kind? Really disappointed as I specifically bought a camcorder with a hard drive because I read they are the easiest to move files to the computer and don't require conversions etc.

Any and all help would be greatly appreciated.

Mac Book Pro, Mac OS X (10.5.1)

Posted on Jan 2, 2008 11:56 AM

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Answer 1

Jan 2, 2008 12:57 PM in response to IrishYankee57

Welcome to the  Discussion Forums.

Unfortunately mpeg2 files are not editable and would require a conversion of some kind in all circumstances.

However since you are able to get the files to your mac you may be able to fool imovie into converting them for you. Karsten describes such a method here.

Alternatively you may want to try 3rd party conversion software such as mpegstreamclip (free), but requires QT mpeg2 playback component to be installed.

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Answer 2

Jan 16, 2008 7:26 PM in response to IrishYankee57

Sadly, I think you are stuck like me. I have the same camera but an older Mac with older software (iMovie 5). I have spent HOURS on the phone with Hitachi and the simple truth is that the footage is not editable by Mac. Even if you do the conversion as suggested by the other responder, once it gets into iMovie you'll lose the sound because Quicktime cannot recognize the sound format.

If you want to use a PC, the software that came with the camera will do basic editing -- but not nearly as nice, professional looking, or as extensive as iMovie.

If you happen to find anything that actually helps I'd love to hear it - otherwise this camera is an expensive toy for my 10 year old because I have no way to use it.

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Answer 3

Jan 18, 2008 4:25 AM in response to Lisa Stephens

I was able to edit the movies after using the mpegstream solution proposed here including the QT download. It takes a bit of work since you have to run the movies through the conversion program and then import it to Imovie but it does work. Maybe the fact that my MacBook is newer might account for the difference that you're seeing?

Now if I could just get the movies I burned using IDVD to actually play on a DVD player I'd be all set.

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Answer 4

Jan 18, 2008 5:51 AM in response to IrishYankee57

Hi again,

Glad to hear you were able to get it to work - I'll give it a try too. What brand of DVD are you using? It seems trivial but for some reason there are some DVDs that seem to burn fine and then won't play on a DVD player (I've had good luck with Verbatum and Fuji). Also I've had issues where I burned 5 copies and 1 or 2 didn't play for some reason -- probably something glitched in the process. The other thing to check is that iMovie and the iDVD are set to NTSC and not Pal - or the other way around if you're writing from Great Britain or Australia. Good Luck. Lisa

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Answer 5

Jan 18, 2008 6:37 AM in response to Lisa Stephens

It worked for me too!!! Thank you so much. I haven't tried burning a DVD yet but at least I can get my movies into iMovie. I'd like to hear if you get your DVD burning issue fixed. Take care. Lisa

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