My Sony HDV 1080i doesn't connect to my Macbook. Any help someone?

I'm not completely sure about HDV cameras but AVCHD (which means disk and memory cards) will only work with iLife08 on an Intel Mac, not any previous models. By that I mean it will only be automatically detected on an Intel Mac, there are ways around this but it does take some time. The reason is the HD decoder has only been written for Intel processors and not PPC. However if I record in SD my camera is automatically detected and works fine.

Do you have an Intel or G5 Mac, your profile does not indicate which

Ok, so it shouldn't be a problem with you computer then and iMovie does support HDV. You need find out how your camera transfer data to the Mac, on mine I have to put the camera into Data transfer mode before the Mac will recognise it. As you have a tape based HDV camera you need to get someone with a similar model to explain the process.

By SD I meant Standard Definition video instead of HD, most HD cameras can record in SD as well as HD and I get better support on the G5 if I shoot HD, however with an Intel Mac that shouldn't be a problem. My camera records to memory cards and does not have a tape or hard drive at all.

Do you know the model number of your Sony?
If so, go to the top right corner of this window, and you will see "Search Discussions". Put your model number there and you can quickly see if anyone else has had this issue.

Well, maybe you could share the model number with us? It is probably something like HDR-HC1.

Are you using a firewire connection? (Also called i.link on Sonys)

USB connection not likely to work on this camera.

Also, make sure your camera is on AC power, not batteries.

Also, open iMovie before you connect.

Message was edited by: AppleMan1958

You need a 6 pin to 4 pin firewire cable. These are available quite cheap online.