What I Need To Non-linear Edit With Gl2
 

Hello everyone. I am new to using the Gl2, and now that i have it, I will need to edit my film using the non-linear format. First of all, non-linear is when you can put all the raw footage into a folder, then click, drag, and drop different segments of it onto a timeline, right? Right now, I only want to use Windows Movie Maker to edit my footage. Sounds pathetic, I know, but I'm going to get better editing software soon. But for now, I just want to send my film to my comp. in a folder, then use segments of it on the timeline. So how do I do this? I know I have to use a firewire cable. Does this mean I have to get a firewire port installed in the back of my comp.? I dont have a firewire connection in my computer. I have a Windows XP with Celeron (if that helps at all). I just need to know how to edit my footage through Windows Movie Maker, how to get it onto my computer for use, and what tools/equipment I may need. Thank you very much for your help, Clint Grant

Hi Clint,
Non-linear is the term many people use to refer to a computer editing program.
There is a different meaning if you want to differentiate between linear and non-linear editing, but you don't need to pay attention to that. You probably want to edit your video on a computer.

What you need:
You need a firewire PCI card. Many come bundled with a 6pin-4pin firewire cable. Some also come with a watered down version of some video editing software (no idea how good they are).

Where to get such a card:
Try pricewatch.com http://www.pricewatch.com/default.as...214%26a%3D3951 If you are buying expensive items, you may want to check those stores against resellerratings.com

Newegg.com is generally a good place to get computer stuff without hassle and at a low price.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16815104218

Some people tell you to get certain cards (i.e. Texas instruments chipset, or particular models) to avoid problems. These problems only happen in certain cases while you will likely never encounter (certain audio hardware, OSes before winXP).

Installation is easy with windowsXP.
1- Open the case and discharge yourself of static. Touch exposed metal on the back of your computer's PSU.
2- Install the card by putting it in the slot... if you can't figure out the physical part of this, read the manual (i.e. for your computer).
3- Boot your machine and everything should work. If not, take the card out and put it in a slot below/above. Make sure it's securely in.

Windows will detect the card and install the drivers for it. The firewire cable you plug into the card and into the appropriate place on your camera (may be tricky to find). Windows should detect the cam when everything is on.

In Windows Movie maker, set everything to edit in DV, not windows media format.

Thank You Very Much
 

Thank you very muich for the great advice. You have helped me simplify this in my mind, and have some good links too. I was a bit confused about the firewire card until now, but it is a lot clearer in my head now. Thanks again, Clint Grant