How can I capture video from HandyCam if I no longer have software CD?

[chrissy25]

I have AVS software and Windows Movie Maker loaded on my computer. When I hook up my Sony HandyCam and it prompts me to install the software CD, how do I select one of the software programs I already have instead?

[TiddiVisual]

wmmaker is an entry level video editing application... AVS is a video editing or DvD authoring software?
However, u failed to mention what type of vcam you have. There are various options to capture/import video from vcam to pc. Try wmmaker -start/all programs/wmm

Video Editing Process
for starters, free Windows Movie Maker (XP-wmm2 & Vista-wmm6) provides simple & easy way to learn the ropes < click help for details>. For enhanced effects, try SpiceFx by Pixelan. Venture into other video editing app ( http://video-editing-software-review.toptenreviews.com/powerdirector-review.html ) accdg. to need & skill level.
(*Note: if video file is not supported, import vcam files separately via win explorer- Hdd (USB connect vcam to pc); DvD (pc reader); Flash Media (card reader) & convert to avi or wmv- try Prism, Super, Windows media encoder, etc.)

Steps:
CAPTURE VIDEO : video stream from tape-based Vcam
a.) Connect miniDV or digi-8 vcam to pc via FIREWIRE cable (4 or 6 pin) for best transfer (USB w/quality concern)
b.) Set vcam mode to playback, set for capture, pause
c.) Open wmm and set to TASKS pane
d.) Click Capture from video device; wmm controls vcam operations- on play, video stream is captured to wmm/COLLECTION
IMPORT FILES : from pc folder
e.) Import video files* (if supported- USB connect vcam to pc OK)
f.) Import other files: pics, music, narration
EDIT MOVIE: create movie as a project
g.) Drag&drop video files from collection to TIMELINE chart below at the desired sequence
h.) Enhance video: drag&drop music, effects, transition, filter; create titles…re-edit as you wish
FINISH MOVIE: render muvee file
i.) Render/Save MUVEE to pc and/ or share- CD; Save PROJECT (work-in-progress) for future edits.

[shidhet]

Even if you use different software to capture from the camera... you probably still need to install the drivers for the camera.

I'm sure you can download them from the manufacturer's web site. Find the support section and look for downloads for your camera model. If you have the software CD... you can probably install the basic drivers for the camera without installing any additional software.