Camcorder Type :
Today's camcorders have grown drastically from their analog predecessors, with digital camcorders filling the market. They possess similar features and abilities, but differ in the recording format. Some digital models record to discs, cassettes and memory cards, whereas others record to a built-in hard disk drive. The type of recording format effects the camcorder's size, shape and weight. How can you select the type of camcorder that's right for you? First, determine how it will be used, and then investigate the different recording formats. It's possible to find a camcorder that stays within your budget and meets your needs.
Digital8/Hi8
Digital8 camcorders record high-quality video and up to 500 lines of resolution onto inexpensive Hi8 and 8mm videocassettes. This type of digital camcorder offers features and benefits that are comparable to a MiniDV camcorder, but what differentiates the two is the use of larger tapes. With a Digital8/Hi8 camcorder, you can store up to 135 minutes of video which can be reproduced without any loss in quality. If your first camcorder was an analog 8mm model and you have a collection of analog tapes, Digital8 camcorders allow you to play back your old classics.
- Digital8 camcorders are less expensive than other digital types, and record without any loss in picture quality Some Digital8 camcorders allow you to upgrade old analog tapes to digital for lasting picture quality
DVD
Hollywood is not the only place where you can make DVD movies. DVD camcorders burn high-quality MPEG-2 video with more than 500 lines of resolution directly onto 3" DVD discs. One advantage to this type of camcorder is that each session is recorded as an individual track, so you can easily skip to your favorite scene. You can store from 30 minutes to 2 hours on a DVD, depending on the camcorder settings. They are ultra-thin, lightweight and compact for ease of use. DVD discs hold more information yet require minimal storage space. DVD camcorders also double as a DVD burner. You can download images using the USB port to make digital photo albums for friends and family. Recording or playing back a DVD entails minimal risk of damage compared to other types because the optical laser pickup refrains from contacting the disc.
- DVD camcorders let you immediately play back your film on most DVD players and PCs
- DVD camcorders are ultra-thin and lightweight for convenient transport
Hard Disk Drive
Camcorders with a built-in hard disk drive allow you to record high-quality MPEG-2 video at more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution (depending on setting). With internal storage capabilities, you don't have to worry about purchasing disposable media, such as tapes and DVDs. Some models with a built-in hard disk drive can store up to 30GB (gigabytes) of video. This type of camcorder is generally compact and allows both video and still images to be recorded onto one media device, instead of a DVD and a memory card. If archiving your footage is a necessity, you'll need to a burn your video to a DVD or connect to a separate hard drive.
- Camcorders with a built-in hard disk drive are ideal for capturing video at great lengths, including vacations, because additional memory is not required
- New models contain fixed storage media, unlike previous models with built-in removable storage
MiniDV (Mini Digital Video)
MiniDV camcorders are the most common type of digital camcorder. They actually capture analog video, but convert it into bytes of data that are stored on a compact cassette tape, also known as a MiniDV cassette. Generally, tapes can hold from 60 to 90 minutes of video with 500 lines of resolution. The picture quality is superior to video captured by an analog camcorder, and the cassette is one-twelfth the size of a standard VHS tape. If high-definition technology is part of your lifestyle, the MiniDV format records at an incredible 720p resolution for images that will come to life on your screen.
- MiniDV camcorders are compact,portable and some can fit in your palm - ideal for on-the-go use
- MiniDV camcorders are the most popular type of digital camcorder, and commonly offerbasic effects and video editing functions
VHS-c (VHS-compact)
VHS-c camcorders record analog video onto a compact VHS cassette. In order to play a VHS-c tape in a compatible VHS VCR, an adapter is required. Some models include the adapter as an accessory. The adapter is the size of a regular VHS tape which allows your compact cassette to be viewed. VHS-c camcorders are not as bulky as previous types for easier portability. If capturing life's precious moments for long-lasing remembrance is your main consideration, a VHS-c camcorder may be all that you need.
- VHS-c camcorders record analog video that can be conveniently played back in any compatible VCR
- New analog models are smaller and more compact than previous types, allowing you to transport with ease
