They use something called "Digital8" format that isn't the same as DV.
Lincoln says he has 2 hour tapes - that means they're most certainly analog format (I've got an analog Hi8 Canon camcorder). Digital8 uses the same size tape as Hi8, but only gets 1 hour from a 2 hour tape.
To amplify some of your comments, Tom:
Assuming he doesn't want to buy a new camcorder, an interface box of some sort seems to be the thing he needs. E.g. Maybe something from [link|http://www.dazzle.com/buy/store_gut.html|Dazzle]. (Note I have no experience with these products.) I've read some stuff about dropped frames when trying to use the USB-interface devices or underpowered PCs. USB interfaces can be had for $70 or so, PCI interface cards and software are around $300. Also, video editing is very hardware intenstive, so be sure your Mac or PC is up-to-snuff.
Lincoln might want to read through some reviews at places like Amazon, [link|http://www.cdrlabs.com/articles/index.php?articleid=15|CDRLabs], [link|http://www.hwdaily.com/reviews/dazzle/dazzle.shtml|Hardware Daily] and [link|http://www.simplydv.co.uk/advc100.html|SimplyDV] in the UK.
HTH.
Cheers,
Scott.