Product MPN
Key Features
NTSC is the format used by American color television broadcast. PAL is the format used across much of Europe and many other parts of the world. PAL camcorders are not compatible with USA NTSC TVs. Make sure the camcorder you purchase is compatible with the color TVs you want to play your recording back on.
Most camcorders only come with one CCD (charge coupled device), which is the image sensor for the camcorder. Some digital camcorders come with three CCDs, which increases the color and detail accuracy of the picture by recording the red, blue and green colors individually.
Of the two types of zoom available, optical and digital, optical zoom is far more important. Optical zoom uses the camcorder's lens to magnify part of the image without losing any image quality. Digital zoom also enlarges images, but loses some of the image quality.
Optical Zoom
Without Optical Zoom
CCD
Most camcorders only come with one CCD (charge coupled device), which is the image sensor for the camcorder. Some digital camcorders come with three CCDs, which increases the color and detail accuracy of the picture by recording the red, blue and green colors individually.
LCD / Viewfinder
Some camcorders include a small LCD screen that displays the image that is being recorded.
Display Type
With LCD Screen
The LCD screen is measured diagonally in inches. A larger LCD panel is desirable for easier recording as well as better viewing when you play back your videos on the camera.
Lens
Of the two types of zoom available, optical and digital, optical zoom is far more important. Optical zoom uses the camcorder's lens to magnify part of the image without losing any image quality. Digital zoom also enlarges images, but loses some of the image quality.
Optical Zoom
Without Optical Zoom
Digital zoom takes part of the image and expands it. While this produces a larger image, it sacrifices the quality of the image. Optical zoom allows for enlarging the image without losing quality.
Lens Focal Length
3.2 - 7.35 mm
Memory Photography
When choosing memory, cost, capacity, and compatibility are all major factors to be considered. Make sure the type of memory you purchase is compatible with the camera you are purchasing.
Memory Card Type
SD Card, Multimedia Card (MMC)
Many camcorders are capable of taking still pictures, much like a digital camera. These pictures can usually be stored directly on the camcorder's tape, but some newer model camcorders include a flash memory card for storing the still images separately.
Digital Still Shot Mode
With Still Shot Capability
Interfaces
Power Supply
Camcorder batteries are rechargeable, usually with enough life for several years of use before needing replacement. All camcorders come with an AC adapter for charging, and do not require use of the battery if an outlet is nearby for use with the AC adapter.
Battery Type
3 x AAA Batteries
Miscellaneous
Included Accessories
USB Cable, A/V Cable
