OK i am a "computer guy" the camcorder should have a USB plug as well as the Firewire,and an S-Video plug "Most camcorders do" how many USB ports do you have, if it is 3 years old"the pc", you should have usb 2.0 compatible ports, most of the time if you have 4 ports on the back, 2 will be 1.0 and 2 will be 2.0, but you can also get a firewire adapter card, and plug it into your computer, - http://www.newegg.com/OldVersion/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=15-126-003&depa=0
there is the link and a verry reasonable price,
the install it extreemly easy with xp,
1. un plug all the cabels to the computer, "most only will plug back in one spot on most computers"
2. remove one side panel from the computer, "NOTE , look for a warrenty void if removed sticker, if it is there chech to see if yer warrenty is over, if it is proceed, if not call the manufacturer of the computer,"
3 find an open slot on the computer main board, the car will only fit into one type of slot, and only fit in one way, you will have to remove the dust shield for the slot the card is going to sit in, ------- WHILE THE COVER OF THE COMPUTER IS OFF, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ONE HAND IN CONTACT WITH A METAL PART OF THE CASE AT ALL TIMES , ALL TIMES, STATIC ELECTRICTY CAN AND WILL DESTROY EVERY ELECTRAL DEVICE IN YOUR COMPUTER INSTANTLY!!!!-------------
now if you open it up and get scared call yer computer guy and watch him. but there is a good link to a good price on the card.