How do I put my Mini-DV Camcorder video on my computer?

You should have received a software to unload pictures from your camcorder to the computer when you purchased the camera. With most Windows programs, the computer recognizes the hookup as soon as you plug in your USB to the computer. One caution: before you unplug your USB from the computer, make sure you have deactivated your USB connection before removing it.

I think I may have pulled it out while it was still activated beacuse now it isn't even dtecting a connection. The only software that came with it was for still pictures and I want to edit our home videos. Do you have any ideo what I can do?

Your camcorder should have supplied a CD with a movie editing program. If you can't find it, go to the camcorder maker's web site. Most have free downloads. Good luck.

If no software to unload digital video can be found for your camcorder, you may want to try using a live av capture solution (usb dongle + software, I use Dazzle - about $80).

Note: a few times, I have found that a firewire connection was required to get the video off the camcorder.