Product MPN
Key Features
Analog camcorders record video and audio signals as an analog track on video tape (VHS, 8mm, Hi-8, etc.), and the media is cheaper to buy than digital. Unfortunately, every time you make a copy of a tape, it loses some image and audio quality. Also, analog camcorders tend to have fewer extra capabilities than digital camcorders. Analog camcorders record between 200 to 400 lines. Digital camcorders differ from analog camcorders in that they record information digitally, as "bytes." Digital video can also be downloaded, edited and played on a computer and posted to the Web. It can be recorded onto Flash Memory, Digital8 and MiniDVs, as well as other digital media. Digital video has a much better resolution than analog video, typically 500+ lines.
Each type indicates the method of recording, and the type of tape that the camcorder uses. Make sure the recording format of your camcorder is one that will play on the device you want to watch your recording on.
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.
Recording System
NTSC / PAL
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.
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.
A CCD (charge coupled device) or CMOS (Complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) sensor, records images by breaking them down into pixels of information. The more pixels a CCD has, the greater detail the images will have.
Number of Pixels
235K pixels
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.
The viewfinder is the device on the camcorder that displays the recorded image as it is being recorded. Standard viewfinders display everything in black and white, but viewfinders with color displays are available on some more expensive camcorder models.
Color Viewfinder
With Color Viewfinder
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.
Lens Focal Length
4.2 - 55 mm
Video Modes
All camcorders that record the video footage on tape have different recording speed options. The three most common speeds are standard play (SP), long play (LP) and extended play (EP). SP is the basic speed, and it increases exponentially with LP and EP. A slower speed does not necessarily create bad picture quality; however, using a slower speed can limit certain editing options during playback.
An image stabilizer removes most of the shakiness typically seen on handheld video cameras. This feature has also been called Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS) or Steady Shot.
Image Stabilizer
Optical Image Stabilizer
The minimum light requirements for recording are measured in lux. Lux ratings can range from .3 to 7. Low ratings, even on cameras with low lux requirements, will rarely produce a good picture. You should generally try to shoot in levels of 300 lux (daylight) for the best results.
Audio
Camcorders come with one of three audio formats: mono, stereo, and PCM Stereo. Mono records onto only one channel, while Stereo records on 2. PCM stereo is a digital standard, and can record much more sound information than either mono or stereo.
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.
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
Output Interfaces
USB 2.0, Headphones Jack
Input Interfaces
S-Video, Composite (Video), Audio (RCA), FireWire / DV / iLink
Microphone Type
Internal, Installed
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
Proprietary Lithium
Dimensions
Warranty
Miscellaneous
Included Accessories
Software, A/V Cable, Shoulder Strap, Lithium Propriety Battery, Battery Charger, AC Power Adapter, Remote Control
