Yes, the intensity card capture the footage that you record straight from the sensor to a computer. That way, it avoids getting compressed to become HDV. It is perfect with your Mac book Pro, YOu get superior quality (4x and 4:2:2 colorspace), instant edit (no need to download) plus you don't have to buy tape anymore, ever.
If it still under warranty, i would definitely return the camera and jsut tell them the firewire was DOA. I am looking to get the hv20 myself
I don't think I'd ever be in a situation where I'd be able to record from the camcorder to a computer. Just doesn't seem feasible. And the MBP isn't mine, it's my employer's.
The device is definitely still covered by Canon's warranty but, more importantly, it's still exchangeable with the retailer from which I bought it. So I'll exchange it with them first and if it breaks again I'll have to send it to Canon.
Thanks for the info on the HDMI stuff, though. Interesting to know.