Transfering analog movies to computer

[jonathan]

Forgive me ahead of time, but my lack of knowledge in this area will be evident in a few minutes. I am wonding if someone with some experiance in transfering analog (both VHS/8mm) videos to digital files on their computer can help me out with some fine points here.

First of all, I understand that to convert these files, you must have an external conversion device that either connects through my USB or firewire ports. I also understand that the USB connections are less effective, so the only real option is the firewire port. Now, I'm a little confused as to what a firewire port is. I know that my computer (HP laptop) has an IEEE 1394 port, but I'm assuming that is not the same thing. So thus my first question would be is this a "firewire" port, and if not, can a firewire cable be converted effectively to a IEEE 1394 port?

Now, if the answer is no to both of the above questions, and since I have a laptop, I am assuming that the only option I have at this point is to buy a firewire adaptor that fits in my PC card slot. Please correct me if I'm wrong. This brings me to my last question...what is a good conversion device for personal home use, with reasonably quality but also at a reasonable price?

Any help in this area will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.