Before you assume it is the camera, try a different computer to load the software and run the camera. Use process of elimination and not purchasing of a new camcorder. If the camcorder responds to a different pc..then the original pc may be having the problem. It is often a misconception that the camcorder is the problem if a pc does not recognize it. The camcorder does not communicate with the pc -- the pc communicates with the camcorder Also, make sure you are using the USB conn for photo transfer and not video transfer. IF you wish to transfer video, you should be using a program like Pinnacle Studio 9 to accomplish that. If you are just transferring photo's from a memory card (not the tape) then utilize the USB connection.