Recording Media:
Mini DV
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.
Camcorder Type:
Digital
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.
Weight:
4.6 lb.
Recording System:
NTSC/PAL
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.
Optical Zoom:
20x
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.
Sensor Size:
1/3"
Sensor Quantity:
3
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 Screen Size:
2.8 in.
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.
Display Type:
With LCD Screen
Some camcorders include a small LCD screen that displays the image that is being recorded.
Color Viewfinder:
With Color Viewfinder
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.
Focal Length:
4.5 - 90 mm
Digital Zoom:
Without Digital 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.
Attachment / Filter Size:
72 mm
Optical Zoom:
20x
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.
Image Stabilizer:
Optical Image Stabilizer
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.
Low Lux:
0.4 Lux
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.
Recording Speeds:
SP
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.
Audio Format:
PCM Digital Audio (DV) /Hi-Fi VHS Stereo
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 Still Resolution:
2.07 Megapixels
Digital Still Shot Mode:
With Still Shot Capability
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.
Max Still Image Size:
1920 x 1080
For cameras that have digital still shot mode, this is the number of still images the camera is capable of storing at any given time.
MPEG Movie Mode:
Without MPEG Movie Mode
This feature allows many newer camcorders to capture video clips in a format that's easy to send via e-mail or post online. These clips are small in size and do not offer top-quality resolution.
Memory Card Support:
SD Card
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.
Output Interfaces:
S-Video
Input Interfaces:
Audio (RCA)
Microphone Type:
External/Optional
Weight:
4.6 lb.
Width:
6.4 in.
Height:
7.4 in.
Depth:
13.8 in.
Release Date:
October, 2006
Family Line:
Canon XH
Product ID:
37544581
Included Accessories:
Shoulder Strap
UPC:
4960999352695
Price: $3562.47 - $3562.47
