The camera turns off when the usb goes into the camera so it can't recognize it to download anything.

The reason it turns off is because it's going into "PC connection" mode this is normal. the reason it doesnt recognize it is because your most likely missing the camera drivers. it should have came with a CD with the drivers on it. Here is a link to the driver page for your camera. Kodak easyshare M883 drivers and firmware update you could also update the firmware if you havent already done so. the new firmware update fix's some stuff with the LCD screen while charging thru the USB cable this might also help you if the missing driver isnt the problem! Good luck i hope i helped!