thanks for your reply,and sorry for not giving the camera type.it is a sony but it has no dv port only 1 charging port and the av,I have been busy reading all the comments on dv in general and think my option will be a new camera I can see this item on ebay would it do me as a starter cam???( 3.1 Mega Digital Video Camcorder Camera Mini DV DV182
Features
3.1 Mega Pixels Software Resolution
Multifunctional Digital Video Camera, Still Camera and WebCamera
USB / Audio-Video (TV) Out: Easy picture transfer to a PC or review on a TV
1.5" Color LCD/On Screen Control Panel: Allows you to easily view playback or configure the settings via the LCD display
SD & MMC Flash Memory Card Support, for expanded storage capacity
Adjustable 4x Digital Zoom: Digital zoom enlarges your images
Lightweight Design, less than 4 ounces (without batteries)
Camera Resolution Settings: Super 2048x1536, High 1600x1200, Middle 1280x1024, Low 800x600
Shutter Speed 1/15 to 1/4000 Second
2 AA Alkaline Batteries (not included)

Technical Specifications

Image Sensor: 2.1 CMOS Sensor / 3.1 MP Software
Resolution: Super: 2048x1536 High 1600x1200
Middle: 1280x1024 Low: 800x600
Video Clip: 320x240
Digital Zoom: 4x
Display: Color TFT 1.5" LCD
External Memory: SD/MMC
Lens: Fixed (5 Glasses Lens) 10.8mm(Equivalent 50mm for 135 Camera)
File Format: JPEG/AVI
F. No.: 2.8
Focusing Range: 0.7m~Infinity
Interface: USB/AV out
Self Timer: 10 Seconds Delay
Shutter Speed: 1/15 to 1/4000 Second
Power: 2 AA Alkaline Batteries
Dimensions: 86 mm (L) x 40 mm (W) x 68 mm (H)
3.4 in. (L) x 1.6in. (W) x 2.5 in. (H)
Weight: 3.7 ounces (Without Battery)

Software

Arcosft Photo Impression 4.0
Arcsoft Video Impression 1.6
AM Cap

Package include
1 x DV-182 Camcorder
1 x Camera Bag
1 x USB Cable
1 x AV Cable
1 x Strap
1 x Installation CD
1 x User Guide