I have the same problems. I've had this JVC unit for over a year now. No problems but now my PC doen't seem to pick up the unit w/firewire connected. I tested my pc firewire connection w/another firewire device and it worked well. So I now its the JVC unit that it's firewire connector doesn't seem to work. I may need to get checked out but I am not sure if I placed an extended service plan which I have to find out. So your not alone!