after reinstalling XP from scratch, I am unable to connect my sony camcorder to the pc, via a firewire cable. In device manager I am unable to see any fw or IEEE 1914(??) reference... How can I get fw visible? thanks santiago

After I reinstall an operating system I then have to install the manufacturers drivers to enable all my peripherals... eg blue tooth, wireless, firewire etc You can download SIW from here: http://www.snapfiles.com/reviews/SI... to check the details of your hardware manufacturer and download the drivers from their site

In addition to the above response I would add that when connecting items like a camcorder you MAY need to install software from the manufactur of the camcorder in order to utilize all the features.

well, thanks, I downloaded SIW and ran it, ... but, how can I detect the fw ports? under which section??? thx thanks santiago

What is the purpose of using that utility? The response above that linked to the SIW utility also stated you need to install the MBoard drivers. Is the problem that you don't have that CD? Most utilities that identiy hardware components wouldn't be explicit enough. If you don't know what MBoard is in the case then I suggest you open the case and read the model and version, which should be printed on the board. If you post that info here someone can supply you with a link to the correct drivers. The fireware ports if installed should be listed in Device manager. They most likel will have a yellow exclamation mark by them to indicate they aren't working properly. If you didn't install MBoard drivers you probably also have other hardware not working properly. Look in device manager.

Open SIW Under Hardware you can look at your motherboard manufacturer, model number and version number. Further down the page under Ports > usb you can see the detected ports and see if firewire or IEEE 1914 is listed there. If not you can then go to the manufacturers website for help and updates.

What is the purpose of using that utility? SIW It really can save you alot of time poking around in your tower with a flashlight and magnifying glass. OtheHill you should really have a look at this tiny utility as it is really comprehensive. It will even give you your product key for your os if you happen to lose it. I know this is possible without SIW but it certainly makes the job very easy. Give it a blast you will be surprised. P.S. It is even a standalone utility so you can carry it around on your usb key.