nuck

I have a camcorder bought in 2006 that has a tape I want to download. The included Picture Package video software is XP based so I can't use it. Should I try to make Playmemories work or should I find an XP emulator and use the Picture Package program. Or has someone used a different solution? I am also a bit concerned because my PC doesn't recognize the Handycam when I plug it into the USB port. My laptop will acknowledge the plug in but calls it an "unknown device". Any ideas?