What kind of operating system do you have? If you have Windows XP or a newer one, you don't need the CD. Make sure the camera is in the off position when downloading or the computer will not recognize it. I've been farily satasfied with the camera so far, although it eats batteries real quick in the Minnesota cold. They last about 1 1/2 - 2 weeks. Flash is "okay" but probably not the best. I get good results when they are w/in 15 feet of it. You get what you pay for and for $100, I think the Wildview does its money's worth.