Importing AVCHD files to Mac

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Importing AVCHD files to Mac

This is probably a lame question...but it's driving me crazy.

I have a Panasonic ZS3 camera that takes AVCHD videos. I KNOW there is a lot of problems getting those files onto a MAC, but from my research, it CAN be done. I downloaded Handbrake to help me convert the files, but I can't even get the file onto the computer to convert it! When I plug in the camera to the computer, the video files aren't even there. I searched everywhere and I can't find them. It's as if they didn't even exist...How do I get the files to show up so I can transfer them onto my computer?

Mac OS X (10.4.11)

Posted on Apr 10, 2010 10:45 AM

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Answer 1

skalicki

Level 5

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Apr 10, 2010 11:39 AM in response to Bobo4486

Hi and welcome to the forum!

The Panasonic ZS3 records in a newer format known as AVCHD Lite that several manufacturers have adopted for consumer cameras. I believe iMovie '09 supports AVCHD Lite material; have you tried ingesting it from your camera through the newest version?

You might ask over on the iMovie forums for more information.

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Answer 2

Bobo4486 Author

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Apr 10, 2010 11:58 AM in response to skalicki

I only have iMovie HD, so no, I haven't tried that yet. Is there a way to import it without using iMovie? I'm not too worried about editing it or anything yet, I just need to get it onto my computer...

Message was edited by: Bobo4486

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Answer 3

skalicki

Level 5

4,422 points

Apr 10, 2010 12:02 PM in response to Bobo4486

If you don't have iMovie or another program that supports AVCHD Lite, you may be able to use [VoltaicHD|http://www.shedworx.com/voltaichd] to convert your files for playback.

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Answer 4

ithini

Level 1

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Apr 18, 2010 11:06 PM in response to Bobo4486

Hi, Bobo4486.
AVCHD stands for "Advanced Video Codec High Definition", the format was jointly established by both Panasonic and Sony in 2006. AVCHD Lite is a subset of AVCHD format, which identifies devices that are capable of 720p recording only. The name was used first in marketing literature for the Panasonic DMC-ZS3/DMC-FT1/DMC-TZ7 digital cameras, announced in January 2009.
Since AVCHD is not a mac suitable video format, so you need to convert it to mac mov or mp4 with avchd converter for mac. I had this problem weeks ago, but know i can easily get my videos into mac.

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