Camcorder

Video Review #185: Sony HDR-XR500V Camcorder

How Do Camcorders Work

How a camcorder works is by recording audio and video and then saving those to a storage device, there by creating your own movies/videos and capturing life on video.

Earlier models of camcorders only recorded to VHS videotapes, and they were so big and bulky that they had to be carted around on a trolley. These camcorders were mostly used by professionals for broadcasting via television. But those days are over. With the advance of technology came digital and with digital came the digital camcorder.

Today digital camcorders are available in small hand held devices that allow everyone to record and make video recordings, and their popularity continues to grow as they quickly make their way to more and more homes, where families use them to capture their lives on film.

For gearheads and technophiles, there's no mystery to the workings of most digital gadgetry. But for the average consumer, even basic operation can be perplexing. Here's a look at how a few different types of digital camcorders work.

To understand how camcorders work is to look at the three components that they are comprised of: Lens, Imager and Recorder.

As with film cameras and analog camcorders, digital camcorders use a lens to see the images they record. These lenses transform the various elements of the image in front of the camera into information that can be processed and recorded. In a video recorder, these lenses focus the light-intensity colors onto a semiconductor image sensor. This sensor is called a charge-coupled device, or CCD. The more of these a camera has, the better the picture quality. The final step in digital video camera operation is what separates them from older camcorders. The information is turned into bytes of data. The contrast and colors become binary code (1s and 0s), and this data is stored as digital video.

Camcorders display the recorded images via the a flat LCD screen feature that comes with most camcorders today. These screens are a big reason why digital camcorders have become so popular because the recording process becomes easy and fun when you are able to see what is being recorded on the LCD screen in real time.

An important part of how camcorders work is when the recorder provides complex signaling functions that capture the video signals and then transfers them to the recording medium, such as DVD or MiniDV tapes. The recording and storage device is an important feature to the usability of camcorders.

DVD Camcorders: One of the most popular camcorders today is the DVD type, which can replay video on a home DVD player via the digital camcorders recording and burning directly to DVD.

Three types of DVD media are available: DVD-R, DVD-RW and DVD-RAM. DVD-R is a recordable DVD format with a write-once only capability. DVD-RW is a recordable DVD but it allows rewrites and so provides unlimited writing to same disk. DVD-RAM - DVD Random Access Memory is a DVD disc, which can be recorded with information, erased, and recorded again.

There are two versions of DVD digital camcorders: one that works with rewritable DVD-RAM/R discs requiring a DVD player with RAM playback or a PC with a DVD-RAM drive, and the second works by using the more popular DVD-R/RW discs that work with most ordinary DVD players.

There are several other recording and writing formats available in digital camcorders. MiniDV, MicroMV, HDD, HDV, Digital 8, VHS and Flash Memory Drive.

Camcorders are wireless and they work by getting their electricity source from special batteries. Generally different models of camcorders have different battery capacity which allow for varying amount of recording time on a fully charged battery. The two most common rechargeable batteries are the NiCd and the Lithium Ion. The lithiums are usually preferred because they take a charge quicker, are lighter than others and have a longer life span. Most full charges give a battery 6 hours of life.

Today digital camcorders are commonplace. They can be seen used everywhere, from family picnics and birthday parties to those news headlines you see where a passer by was able to capture some extraordinary event, such as natural disaster, cops beating a suspect or videos seen on the infamous YouTube website.

Regardless of how many features you choose or how complicated the digital camcorder is, most are very user-friendly, and their popularity is mainly centered in how digital camcorders provide a user-friendly video recording experience for anyone.

Digital camcorders come with various price tags from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the features of the device, the clarity of sound and video quality provided, and the company manufacturing it. Something to consider that in the world of the Internet many sellers and merchants compete for your business and lots of money can be saved by avoiding retail merchants and purchasing digital camcorders at a discount.

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Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL List Price: $199.00 Sale Price: $179.00 You save: $20.00 (10%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description The all-new Flip UltraHD video camera, now with image stabilization and a new slimmer design, combines Flip Video's signature shoot-and-share simplicity with better-than-ever HD. Simply power on and press record to start capturing up to 2 hours of incredible HD video. When you're done recording, just connect the flip-out USB arm to a PC or Mac and use pre-loaded FlipShare software to organize, edit and share your videos. The new UltraHD also works with Designed for Flip products, a new expanded accessory line from Flip Video and partner companies. Features Shoot up to 2 hours of better-than-ever HD video on the easy-to-use, now even slimmer UltraHD Press the big red button to start capturing vibrant HD video (720p / 60fps) on the super-simple user interface Keep your video steady with image stabilization, UltraHD's newest feature Connect the built-in USB arm to your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software Organize, create and share your videos with FlipShare software

Samsung F40 Ultra Zoom Camcorder (Black) List Price: $199.00 Sale Price: $129.99 You save: $69.01 (35%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description With its incredible 65x intelli-Zoom (52x Optical Zoom), the Samsung SMX-F40 series give you the ability to bring distant images into forefront focus, enabling you to zoom closer to the action from further away. FEATURES: Record More - Enhanced energy efficiency and advanced power management coming from Samsung 8th generation DSP Solution combine to create a camcorder that gives you over 4 hours and 10 minutes of battery life, ensuring that you can shoot and share for longer. Get Closer - With its incredible 65x intelli-Zoom (52x Optical Zoom), the Samsung SMX-F40 series give you the ability to bring distant images into forefront focus, enabling you to zoom closer to the action from further away. Bigger sensor, better video - The Samsung SMX-F40 series use a 1/6 CCD Sensor to enhance image quality. Its extra-large sensor sets it apart from other camcorders in its class and enables you to enjoy higher-quality images. Ultimate Companion to your PC - intelli-Studio 2.0 is designed to enhance your sense of freedom. Plug & Play PC Software, intelli-Studio 2.0 is built-into the Samsung SMX-F40 series, you can use any PC to view, edit, and upload your memories to the web without software CD. USB Battery charging - The convenient USB charging gives you flexibility and freedom. Simply connect the Samsung SMX-F40 series to any PC via USB cable and the camcorder will begin recharging, allowing you to enjoy a more mobile lifestyle. Record the passing of time - The Time-Lapse recording feature captures frames at preset intervals and then arranges them in sequential order to create a video file that condenses an extended period of time into a fraction of the time. Features 65x Intelli-Zoom/52x Optical Zoom Long Battery Life (4Hr 20Min) Time Lapse recording IntelliStudio 2/0 (Built In PC Software) Animated Thumbnail

Kodak PlaySport (Zx3) HD Waterproof Pocket Video Camera (Blue) NEWEST MODEL List Price: $149.00 Sale Price: Too low to display   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description Kodak HD ZX3 Pocket Video Camera Blue--Like the Zi8, you'll be able capture HD video in 1080p or 720p, shoot 5-megapixel still images, and easily share your creations on YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook. However, what's interesting about the PlaySport is that you can take this thing underwater (up to 10 feet). While we've seen other pocket camcorders that do this, the Zx3 is arguably the first mainstream model to offer this feature. Features Waterproof up to 10 ft. (3 m) Full 1080p HD video Electronic image stabilization Brilliant 2.0 in. color display Capture 5 megapixel HD stills (16:9)

Coby 1.44-Inch TFT LCD SNAPP Mini Camcorder/Camera CAM3001BLK (Black) List Price: $45.99 Sale Price: $29.27 You save: $16.72 (36%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description Shoot it, share it, SNAPP it! Introducing the Coby SNAPP CAM3001 from Coby Electronics: This pocket-sized digital camcorder lets you shoot video, take pictures, and play back your files at the touch of a button on a brilliant 1.44" LCD screen. A built-in SD/SDHC card slot offers expandable memory for more than 2 hours of recording time, and the integrated USB plug eliminates the need for cables. Easy-to-use ArcSoft video editing software and YouTube uploader let you share your videos online in minutes. USB extension cable and hand strap also included. Features The Snapp Mini digital camcorder with 1.44" TFT LCD screen and 1.3MP CMOS sensor with 4x digital zoom Video resolution; VGA (640 x 480) @ 30fps, AV file (Motion JPEG codec) Up to 8GB memory with optional SD/SDHC card, edit video and upload to YouTube with included ArcSoft media impression software. View recorded videos and photos on a TV with the included AV cable Convenient integrated USB 2.0 hi-speed plug for fast file transfers. 2 x AA batteries(included ) provides over 1.5 hours of power

Toshiba Camileo S20 Full-HD Pocket Camcorder (Silver/Black) List Price: $179.99 Sale Price: $134.00 You save: $45.99 (26%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description The S20 fits in every pocket! At 2/3 thin and 3.5 oz this tiny video camera is about the same size as a Smartphone and can go wherever you do. Don’t sacrifice size for power! High Definition made easy. The Camileo S20 sports 1920x1080p Full High Definition Video, 4x digital zoom, and video stabilization in 720p mode. The S20 also doubles as a 5 Megapixel still digital camera. The S20 has 4 different recording modes: Macro mode for close up shots, motion detection mode for surveillance, slow motion for sports, and time elapse mode. Don’t be constrained by a device’s built in memory! The S20 takes SD/SDHC memory cards up to 32GB (not included) for extended recording time. Each 32GB card will record an estimated 5 hours at 1080p. The S20 can also charge with a standard USB 2.0 cable so you won’t need to bring extra cables or power adapters on your travels. Capture, Edit, Share. Previewing, watching and sharing your videos doesn’t get any easier. Camileo S20 is equipped with a large 3swiveling LCD for previewing and controlling your videos and pictures. Share your memories with your family and friends with the one-touch YouTube button or watch them directly on your screen with the included HDMI cable. Features 1080p Full HD resolution video 4x digital zoom in 720p, 1x in 1080p HDMI digital AV output 3.0-Inch LCD Monitor Easy YouTube upload button

Panasonic HDC-SD60K SD Based Hi-Def Camcorder with 35X Intelligent Zoom (Black) List Price: $449.00 Sale Price: Too low to display   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description 35.7mm Wide Lens & 35X Intelligent Zoom Enjoy the benefits of a wide angle lens without giving up the performance of a long zoom Power OIS Keep Your Images Still with an Advanced Optical Image Stabilizer Intelligent Auto with Face Recognition Confidently record as the camera automatically adjusts settings that recognize familiar faces Black Features 2-11/16" widescreen LCD 25X optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 1500X) High-definition video resolution: 1920 x 1080 Optical image stabilization Face recognition tracks your subject within the frame (up to 6 registered subjects)

Samsung F40 Ultra Zoom Camcorder (Red) List Price: $199.00 Sale Price: $129.00 You save: $70.00 (35%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Temporarily out of stock. Order now and we'll deliver when available. We'll e-mail you with an estimated delivery date as soon as we have more information. Your credit card will not be charged until we ship the item. See Reviews For This Product Description With its incredible 65x intelli-Zoom (52x Optical Zoom), the Samsung SMX-F40 series give you the ability to bring distant images into forefront focus, enabling you to zoom closer to the action from further away. FEATURES: Record More - Enhanced energy efficiency and advanced power management coming from Samsung 8th generation DSP Solution combine to create a camcorder that gives you over 4 hours and 10 minutes of battery life, ensuring that you can shoot and share for longer. Get Closer - With its incredible 65x intelli-Zoom (52x Optical Zoom), the Samsung SMX-F40 series give you the ability to bring distant images into forefront focus, enabling you to zoom closer to the action from further away. Bigger sensor, better video - The Samsung SMX-F40 series use a 1/6 CCD Sensor to enhance image quality. Its extra-large sensor sets it apart from other camcorders in its class and enables you to enjoy higher-quality images. Ultimate Companion to your PC - intelli-Studio 2.0 is designed to enhance your sense of freedom. Plug & Play PC Software, intelli-Studio 2.0 is built-into the Samsung SMX-F40 series, you can use any PC to view, edit, and upload your memories to the web without software CD. USB Battery charging - The convenient USB charging gives you flexibility and freedom. Simply connect the Samsung SMX-F40 series to any PC via USB cable and the camcorder will begin recharging, allowing you to enjoy a more mobile lifestyle. Record the passing of time - The Time-Lapse recording feature captures frames at preset intervals and then arranges them in sequential order to create a video file that condenses an extended period of time into a fraction of the time. Features 65x Intelli-Zoom/52x Optical Zoom Long Battery Life (4Hr 20Min) Time Lapse recording IntelliStudio 2/0 (Built In PC Software) Animated Thumbnail

JVC GZ-MS230 Camcorder (Black) List Price: $269.95 Sale Price: $175.99 You save: $93.96 (35%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description 8GB Internal Flash Memory and SD/SDHC card slot 45x Dynamic Zoom Advanced Image Stabilizer (A.I.S.) Super LoLux Time Lapse REC Auto REC 2- way grip belt One Touch Upload to YouTube (HD Compatible One Touch Export KONICA MINOLTA LENS HD Gigabrid Premium Engine Laser Touch Operation (with Sub-trigger and Zoom function) Everio MediaBrowser Features 39x optical zoom, 800x digital zoom and 45x dynamic zoom 1 hour and 50 minutes of recording time with 8GB memory card Uses SD/SDHC memory cards Includes power supply, Everio Media Browser software, battery and camcorder strap

Kodak PlaySport (Zx3) HD Waterproof Pocket Video Camera (Black) NEWEST MODEL List Price: $149.00 Sale Price: Too low to display   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description Kodak HD ZX3 Pocket Video Camera Blk--Like the Zi8, you'll be able capture HD video in 1080p or 720p, shoot 5-megapixel still images, and easily share your creations on YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook. However, what's interesting about the PlaySport is that you can take this thing underwater (up to 10 feet). While we've seen other pocket camcorders that do this, the Zx3 is arguably the first mainstream model to offer this feature. Features Waterproof up to 10 ft. (3 m) Full 1080p HD video Electronic image stabilization Brilliant 2.0 in. color display Capture 5 megapixel HD stills (16:9)

Sony HDR-CX110 High Definition Handycam Camcorder List Price: $449.99 Sale Price: $348.00 You save: $101.99 (23%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description Capture stunning 1920 x 1080 Full HD video and 3.0 Megapixel images with the ultra-compact HDR-CX110, which features an "Exmor R" CMOS sensor for superior low-light performance and a Carl Zeiss® Vario Sonnar T* 25x optical zoom lens to help bring you closer to the action. Features 1920x1080 Full HD Recording w/3MP still image Memory Stick PRO Duo media slot 1/4" back-illuminated "Exmor R" CMOS sensor 1080/60p playback via HDMI and compatible HDTV 30mm CZ Vario Sonnar T* with 25x Optical zoom

Posted on July 26, 2010 at 5:57 am
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