How can I import video from my camera JVC GR 407 EG to my MacBook Air?

How can I import video from my camera JVC GR 407 EG to my MacBook Air?

Posted on Apr 26, 2020 2:46 AM

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8 replies

Apr 26, 2020 8:10 AM in response to Puccini02

Would it be correct to assume that the full model name is GR-DVX407EG (if necessary, an instruction manual can be found via https://www3.jvckenwood.com/english/support/)? If so, the camcorder has a DV in/out connector, which can be connected to a FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.LINK) port of another device. See, for example, page 63 in the (English) manual.


MacBook Air computers do not have FireWire ports. Even if one possibly could achieve some kind of experimental FireWire connectivity, through the use of (a combination of) Thunderbolt adapters, with the latest MacBook Air models, this is probably not worth testing. Instead, the best way may be to try to locate another older Mac with a direct FireWire port (and an appropriate iMovie version).


https://everymac.com/systems/apple/macbook-air/index-macbook-air.html



Apr 27, 2020 4:18 AM in response to Puccini02

Hi Giuseppe,


First of all, in order to avoid any confusion regarding ports, please let us know which exact model/year MacBook Air it is (see https://everymac.com/systems/apple/macbook-air/index-macbook-air.html), and the operating system version in use.


According to Note 2 in the following article, "iMovie works with most mini DV tape-based camcorders using DV and HDV formats. Use FireWire port for tape-based devices".

iMovie for macOS supported cameras - Apple Support

However, there have been some reports indicating that older program versions may work better than newer ones. Also, generally speaking, there have been reports about both successful and not so successful transfers using one or two (depending on available port types) Thunderbolt adapters.


EDIT: Noticed that AirGraph had posted information while I was composing my message.



Apr 28, 2020 5:15 AM in response to Puccini02

Hello,


According to the product web page (link above), the Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter suggested by John Galt is compatible with a 2017 MacBook Air. If applicable, you would have to check for availability via your local Apple web site (or reseller).


Even if FireWire connectivity is possible, it does not necessarily mean that a successful import can be guaranteed from every digital tape-based camcorder (or with any iMovie or other software version), but you may want to carry out a test.


MacBook Air (13-inch, 2017) - Technical Specifications



Apr 27, 2020 3:59 AM in response to Puccini02

Hello!


Look at this:


https://discussions.apple.com/thread/251285239


John Galt recommended the simplest way with Thunderbolt to FireWire adapter. Just buy a cable FireWire 800 9 pin to FireWire 400 4 pin, something like this:


https://www.cmple.com/firewire-800-9-pin-to-firewire-400-4-pin-bilingual-cable-15-feet-clear


I didn't find the same cable in Apple Store, but this looks good.


And yes, there are Apple software to import videos from your camera to MacBook Air. That is QuickTime and iMovie.

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How can I import video from my camera JVC GR 407 EG to my MacBook Air?

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