Digital camera to computer connection

rmg1

Hi all

This ounds like a simple question, but I just want to make sure before I blow anything up.

I have digital camera which takes bits of video and everything (pictures/video) is transferred to the computer via a USB connection. Is it possible to stream directly to the computer and record what is being seen?
Will I need any specific software or does Windows XP have something built-in?

I also have Nero if that helps.

JonnyThunder

I'd think that if your camera were capable of that type of through function, it'd be listed as a feature in the manual. I have seen cameras which double as webcam type devices before - but expect it's something which is built in to the design.

Google it tho!

rmg1

Will do!
I don't know if it makes any difference, but the computer recognises it as another drive. It comes up the camera name, etc but then I can actually access the SD card to delete pictures I've forgotten to delete before, etc.

JonnyThunder

Most cameras will share the memory card as a drive if connected to a PC, sometimes with a switch that needs set and sometimes without.

However, to provide what you're talking about there is usually a setting on the camera to allow it to act as such a device, and almost always there will be driver software with the camera. If you dont have these, then likely it'll either be (1) hard or (2) impossible to do with your camera.

rmg1

Just been on to Vivitar (the manufacturers) about the camera.
Can't use it as a webcam, so I assume you can't stream from it for any other purpose unless anyone knows otherwise?

Oh, well, excuse to get a new camera, I suppose!

Donnie

You can't 'blow anything up' by connecting the camera to the computer if that is what it is designed to do.
As for using the camera as a webcam, if you have Nero Vision as part of your Nero Suite, you can check to see if there is any output. If so, you can record it from within that program.
You can download a trial version of Nero 7 from the Nero website.

rmg1

I have got Nero Vision.
I tried last night - connected the camera to PC via the USB port like I normally do, launched nero Vision and it said it couldn't find any devices.
PC recognised it as a drive like it normally does.
I even went into configuration, but couldn't see anywhere to tell it to check for USB connections.

I've been in touch with Nero as well, so I'll see what they come back with.

Donnie

It would appear that the camera is incapable of functioning in the way you require.
Hope it's proved otherwise.