firewire

Highly recommended. The installation was simple. XP detected the drivers and set it up instantly. Was able to hook up external hard drive without any problems. Even comes with software to create your own digital movies. Learning the software is not as easy as installing the PCI card.
Overall, very satisfied with this product.

.. This was a synch to install in my XP, 2.4ghz, P4. Once in the slot, it loaded itself up, bypassing the usual Wizard. ... I began converting analog 8 mm to digital files for editing, right off the bat. The software that came with it is clunky, taking time to get a handle on. But it produced beautiful avi and quicktime files, once I figured things out. The wma files weren't so great, but that's probably the price you pay for squeezing down a 3 minute clip for e-mail. Other files can be produced too, with the software. Am very pleased.

I'm using Windows XP on a 1.8ghz P4

XP detected it immediatley upon boot up. My JVC Mini-DV was also detected right away when I plugged in the firewire cable.

I also purchased the 6 foot firewire cable. I would suggest not getting a cable any shorter than 6'

If you plan on tranferring your video to VCD, you may want to invest in a good video editing program like Adobe Premiere.

I used the Windows Video Maker to capture the video and Nero Burning Rom to make the VCD. It looked "OK" on the TV.

I will be investing in some video software soon