If you have the Original (on SD?), you should be able to import it using a Card-Reader. Those USB links are problematic, IMHO. If you don't have a Reader, get one that deals ONLY with SD/SDHC as this will show as a single "Ext.Drive" - thus reducing confusion. (Multi-readers put up every letter and thus it's more confusing. IMHO).
From what you say it's a decent spec, but I wonder if you have "shared Video" RAM - this is considered "Not Good" as the Processor and Video are fighting over resources. This arrangement is common on the budget-end of the Market. However, I the Cure may be to Import direct from the Card. I don't know why Manufacturers insist on USB links, as it means running the battery down.
Could you go into "Properties" and tell us how your PC stacks up?
Another issue can be an external drive...USB1 was too slow for Video, so your finished film needs to be Rendered to the HDD inside the PC (to check this point). VLC can also have issues, although I sometimes use it, mainly for Audio on an elderly PC. My new PC is 4G RAM, dual-core 2.8GHz and 500M of dedicated Video RAM this renders HiDef 1920x108050i = and plays etc. The PC is within the Spec for Sony Vegas Version 10 HD.
Can you confirm what "Def" your Pana is, as well?
