I just upgraded to a new PC with Windows 7 and upgraded to PowerDirector 8 (previous version was PD5). With this new upgrade, I cannot import HD video from my Sony HDR-HC7 (miniDV, 1080i) within PowerDirector 8. I can import DV video in PD8, although it transfers in a distorted 4:3 ratio, when the actual video is shot in 16:9. Right now, my only real solution is using the Windows Live option to import DV (not HDV) and then pull the files over into PD8, which is inconvenient.
When trying to capture the HDV, I keep getting the following error message:
"You cannot use the capture function because the i.Link mode on the HDV device is not identical to the recorded format on the tape. Check the tape status or make sure the content of the tape is in an HDV format and then reconnect the i.Link again".
I've tried all the setting combinations on the camera to no avail. So, I'm thinking that I just need to upgrade my video camera now as well. I would be interested in any potential solutions for using my current video camera or recommendations for a new video camera that would work well with PD8. Jason