I used to have an HC1, but decided to return it and get a FX1 instead. The output of the HC1 do not match my Z1U (pro version of the FX1), so I cannot use it as a second camera.
As for output to computer, I thought the latest version of the Windows XP and Apple will support the MPEG2 HDV files, I might be wrong. For editing, you will need at least dual Xenon, 2 G of Ram plus large capacity hard drive to edit. Dual core game/consummer base processors are not recommended because of the long randering time HDV requires. Files are large, and only a few editing software can handle the files, plus, until there are HD-DVD or Blu-Ray burners, the only way you can share HD files is using the computer.
Now the advantage, both HDV 1080i and 720p look so much better than the SD 480i or 480p. All one have to do is to look at the pictures. I have shot multiple videos using HDV, and the output are so much better. All my clients, once they seen the footage directly off my editing computer, are willing to pay extra for their HD footage once the HD-DVD or Blu-Ray burners are out.
Note: Sony have discoutinue the HC1 production, and have released the HC3 (smaller camera with HDMI output). Consumers can output their HDV footage directly to their HD (1080i or 1080p) television.
So far, there are only limited comsummer level camcorders and decks in HDV, but the standard is only 3 years old. All the primary players (Canon, JVC, Panasonic) are now into HDV, but are limiting their products to professional and pro-summer levels.
Some HDV footage can be seen when you watch the American Chopper on Discovery HD, their England travel was mostly shot using the Z1U and the rest Sony HDCam. Another stunning show is The Watch Maker, also shown on Discovery, which was filmed using a Canon H1.