I can't a PC or a Mac to see it, can't get a Firestore to react to it and I can't my JVC SR-VS30 mini-DV VTR to see it either, and that is a FIRST for that deck.

Yes, I did make sure that the output was set to "DUB" (DV) made no difference.

So, does anyone have the rundown on that Firewire port on the GZHD7?

It has been a while since I used the FireWire port for download, but I believe you must shoot in 1440CBR to get a DV feed.

iLink port is for file transfer to a computer while using appropriate video software on the computer.

In my case, I'm using a MacBook and both iMovie HD 6 and iMovie '09 and I'm able to transfer video files. Some of the files I transfer are Full HD and some are 1440cbr.

That's the best answer I can come up with.

i.link is sony's term for firewire. It should do what a firewire port is supposed to do - transmit data from your device to a pc. If it doesn't do that, try it with a Sony device (maybe it is customized for Sony systems only?), and if that doesn't work, the port might need to be replaced.