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sean_98F
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Q: Import from Mini-DV GL2 to MAC

I'm having trouble importing video from a canon GL2 (mini DV) onto the Mac.  I connect the camera via the Firewire 800 Port, then switch the camera button to the PLAY position for video playback.  (I've even tried pressing play and pausing the video).  When I open iMovie and use the video capture utility, it only sees the WebCam and doesn't see the GL2.  I tried through Adobe Premiere as well and it also doesn't see the camera.  After going through the Apple Menu and checking "Firewire" under "System Report->Hardware->Firewire" it says "Warning: Unable to list FireWire devices" and "Maximum Speed: Up to 800 Mb/sec".  Canon doesn't have any software drivers to download to the Mac for this.  Very confusing and therefore frustrating as well.  I have imported to a PC before using the more traditional FireWire 400 cable with no issue.  I'm not certain why there is an issue importing to the Mac.  Any help is appreciated.

MacBook Pro (15-inch Mid 2009), OS X Mountain Lion, iMovie

Posted on Sep 2, 2013 6:06 PM

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sean_98F

Q: Import from Mini-DV GL2 to MAC

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  • by Russ H,

    Russ H Russ H Sep 2, 2013 7:21 PM in response to sean_98F
    Level 7 (21,905 points)
    Quicktime
    Sep 2, 2013 7:21 PM in response to sean_98F

    Are you using a 4 pin to 9 pin Firewire cable…or an adaptor?

     

    Have you ever had success with importing from the Canon?

     

    Russ

  • by Studio X,

    Studio X Studio X Sep 4, 2013 6:38 PM in response to sean_98F
    Level 7 (27,074 points)
    Sep 4, 2013 6:38 PM in response to sean_98F

    There is no need for camera specific drivers as Macs have always had FireWire capabilities built into the OS.

     

    The real issue is Canon cameras have a problematic firewire implementation and the use of a 4 pin to 8 pin adapter or cable seems to pushed things over the edge for many people.

     

    Not an answer you are looking for -  but my suggestion is to find someone with a Mac that still has FW400 imput and use that. Otherwise, you may need to go back to a PC.

     

    x

  • by P Dannenberg,

    P Dannenberg P Dannenberg Oct 2, 2013 12:12 AM in response to sean_98F
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Oct 2, 2013 12:12 AM in response to sean_98F

    If the camera won't connect you could connect a Sony DSR-11 deck , they use the same connections so keep your cables.