A summary based on 1000’s of cameras of all brands I have seen and repaired. The weak spots of the camera:
• LCD display – Glass! Easily broken, when knocked or pressure applied!
• Media compartment
1. CF Card – long pins inside the camera need to access contacts inside the little holes of the card. Even tough the card has groves along the side, which act as guide rails, I have seen cameras with damaged card slots. Pins easily break off or bend, when not careful during seating or extraction of the card.
2. Tape mechanism – very delicate and flimsy – do not apply any pressure, when loading or removing the tape! Keep it clean and shut, when not used.
3. Disc mechanism – not too bad, just watch discs for fingerprints and scratches, of course.
4. Extendable lens – jammed lens sections due to dirt, sand and impact. So keep it clean, free of dirt and sand at any time. Make sure the lens is inside, when the camera is not used!
Self induced faults: Liquid, Sand and shock damage make up about 70% of all repairs
Water and liquid damage
There are three things to look out for, when the camcorder comes in contact with a liquid.
a. Most liquids are conductive and short out circuitry inside the camcorder.
b. Corrosion occurs, when the liquid reacts with the copper tracks or other components on the
circuit board and mechanism. Seawater is one of the worst liquids, as it reacts with most of the
components inside the camera.
c. In the mechanism the tape gets stuck on the metal parts, such as video head drum and prevents it
from spinning. Most liquids leave a residue, which malfunction the recorder mechanism.
What to do, to minimize the damage
Liquid damage
No matter how badly the camera is affected by the liquid, the first thing you should do, is to disconnect the battery or power source, to prevent any shorting of the circuitry. Once the camera has been dried, try to eject the tape or other media and use a different one for testing. If this does not help or your camera has been immersed in water, bring it to a repairer as soon as possible to prevent any corrosion.
Sand damage
Any sand or dirt damage, the first thing you should do is to disconnect the battery or power source. Secondly, clean the camera thoroughly with a small dry brush and cloth. Now reconnect the battery, press eject and remove the tape or other media. Leave the cassette compartment open and remove the battery. When you see sand grains inside the media compartment, just blow it out with compressed air. Try to avoid touching any components, as they can be very delicate, particularly in a tape mechanism. If this procedure was not successful, the camera needs to be booked in with a repairer.
Shock damage
The only thing you can do in this case is to reset the camera by disconnecting the battery or power source for a few seconds and then connecting it again. Try to remove the cassette and then reload again. If unsuccessful, see a repairer.
Damage Prevention – this applies to all cameras
Very important – have your camera bag sand free and clean from the inside. Do not store any liquids like water bottles etc. in your camera bag, just in case.
•Use a padded bag from all 6 sides
•Transport and store camera without accessories attached. Keep camera in a separate compartment, away from other things. This way the camera is less bulky, lighter and therefore less prone to damage.
•Lens filter for protection – most lenses are none serviceable items and need to be replaced as a complete unit.
• Take your time during loading and unloading of the cassette, disc or memory card. Do not be rushed and apply any force during this procedure. Get into the habit of closing the cassette compartment where it says ‘push’ on the door.
•Keep the camera in plastic zipper bag inside your padded camera bag, to prevent any sand damage on the beach, or from water/rain damage etc.
Summary
More detailed and complimentary information as well as a ‘How to…’ video called ‘DIY Camera Care and Damage Prevention’ you find on my website.
Hd Camcorder Reviews Camcorder Buyer Guide Flash Memory Camcorder
May 16, 2010
Abstract
Looking for a digital camcorder for use in performing surveillance? Well, technology improvements in CCD and CMOS image sensors as well as the introduction of new high definition display and recording formats have certainly resulted in the introduction of lots of different digital camcorder models. Because of the wide variation in features and price points, it’s more difficult than ever to select the optimal digital camcorder. Certainly, some models will be better than others in consideration of the specific application for which the camcorder is intended and the features that are required. Because there are so many factors involved in making a selection and since new models are frequently introduced, it’s best to provide guidelines useful when evaluating models intended for a specific application. Then, as new models become available, they can be compared to existing models based on the same guidelines.
The goal of this paper is to provide guidelines that should be considered when evaluating camcorders for use in surveillance applications. These applications are those that would be used by military, law enforcement and special investigative personnel for gathering evidence or performing electronic news gathering and usually include viewing at a distance. While these are useful guidelines for understanding important camcorder specs, prior to making your own camcorder purchase decision, we suggest that you perform your own research of available models and, based on these guidelines, select those models that are expected to deliver the best performance and perform your own tests under real-life situations. You may learn that other factors may be important to your specific application and that your final decision is a compromise of those other factors.
For surveillance, optical image quality is of highest importance. Camcorder resolution and sensitivity are the primary factors to consider, with a variety of related factors such as image and pixel fields-of-view, the pixel size, as well as the frame rate, image stabilization, alternative lens options and lens interchangeability, integration mode, digital zoom and display resolution, user interface, video formats, recording media, manual gain, infrared mode, video compression, external audio inputs, viewfinder, robustness, and video compression.
Camcorder Resolution
Video resolution is affected by a variety of different camcorder specifications. It is well known that high definition camcorders deliver higher resolution than standard definition formats. However, it is important to realize that if the camcorder is used to record image sequences that are later to be viewed (rather than using the camcorder just to view the video output in real time), both the optical resolution and the recording format must be considered in determining the ultimate video resolution. Considered separately, the optical resolution depends not only on the detector array size but also the image and pixel field-of-view. HD recording format also affects resolution. Finally, there are other resolution factors that may warrant consideration in order to determine the ultimate camcorder resolution.
Detector Array Size:
It seems that every camcorder uses a slightly different imaging detector. While the HD recording format can be 1280×720, 1440×1080 or 1920×1080, the imaging detectors may vary quite a bit. As shown in the table, for a selection of mid-range camcorders, detector array sizes can vary from single chip cameras having arrays as large as 1920×1080 (Canon HF-10 and Sony HDRSR11) to three-chip blocks having detectors as large as 1440×1080. The physical size of the imaging detector also varies from camcorder to camcorder.
Image and Pixel Field-of-View:
As shown in the accompanying chart (reference at link below) the combination of the physical size of the camcorder’s imaging detector (for example 1/3″) and the focal length of its objective lens (for example 50mm) result in an image field-of-view (FOV) that is defined as the angle of view from which image information is received. There are separate angles corresponding to the horizontal and vertical directions depending on the aspect ratio of the image. For wide screen video formats, the vertical FOV is 9/16 of the horizontal FOV. All camcorders have zoom lenses where the focal length varies from a wide angle position (with the largest angular FOV) to a telephoto position (with the smallest angular FOV). A smaller field-of-view results in a higher image magnification as would be required to view small objects at a distance.
Smaller imaging detectors create narrower angles of view when used on the same focal length lens. For example, a 50 mm lens delivers a horizontal FOV of 5.5° and 3.7° when used with a 1/2″ and 1/3″ format detector, respectively. Based on the variation of detector sizes and lens focal lengths, the angular field of view for different camcorders varies accordingly. The image FOV can be determined for any camcorder based on a simple formula.
The pixel FOV (also known as the instantaneous field of view, or IFOV) is a measure of the resolution of an imaging system. Though related, image FOV and pixel FOV are distinct and a camcorder having the narrow image FOV does not necessarily have a corresponding narrow pixel FOV. As shown in the table (reference at link below), while the Canon camcorders have the smallest image and pixel FOV values, the Sony HDR-SR11 has a small pixel FOV despite an image FOV that is nearly twice as wide as those for Canon.
A handy FOV calculator can be used to determine the FOV values for certain candidate camcorders. Pixel FOV is also calculated as are detection, identification and recognition range values for certain specified object sizes at a specified distance.
Recording Format:
The difference between the different HD recording formats is beyond the scope of this white paper. However, the impact of recording format on resolution is critical to imaging performance for surveillance applications and is described here.
As shown in the figure (reference at the link below), standard definition camcorders (with a 4:3 aspect ratio) recorded video with 480 horizontal rows per frame giving a resolution of 640 x 480. (This is for NTSC formats. PAL formats recorded with 576 rows per frame giving a resolution of 640×576). Wide screen versions of these standard definition camcorders with a 16:9 aspect ratio were also available and recorded with slightly larger resolution of 720 x 480 (720×576 for PAL versions). Because of the limitations of the recording format, it would not have been useful to have a high resolution CCD/CMOS detector larger than 720×480 pixels in a standard definition NTSC camcorder except under certain circumstances (like zooming in to view central pixels). However, with the introduction of higher resolution recording formats, higher resolution detectors make sense.
Camcorder Sensitivity
High definition refers to video having higher resolution than standard definition and most commonly refers to resolutions based on either 720 rows/frame or 1080 rows/frame. Recording formats can either be 1920×1080, 1440×1080 and 1280×720. Consequently, are available with either 720 or 1080 rows per frame recording formats having a resolution of 1280×720 and 1920×1080 respectively. It is important to understand the recording format for any camcorder under consideration. If the full sensor resolution is necessary to perform the surveillance function, then make sure that the camcorder records in sufficient resolution.
Had this whitepaper been about digital still cameras, the above discussion of recording format would’ve been sufficient to describe the effects on image quality. However, since video incorporates motion, the fact that some camcorders record “interlaced” video while others record “progressive” video has some relevance, particularly when motion is important to the type of surveillance being performed. If not, then the relevance of interlace vs. progressive scan is less important.
Other Resolution Factors:
It’s worth mentioning that in those camcorders that utilize three sensors, pixel shift technology has been employed in the horizontal axis to make incremental improvements to the sensor resolution by using interpolation. This complicates the calculation of optical resolution somewhat, but may not be a primary factor.
Camcorder low-light sensitivity is usually of primary importance for surveillance applications, particularly when imaging at dusk or dawn, but also when attaching a night vision module that intensifies ambient light. The guidelines for camcorder evaluation are listed below. We recommend a review of the following factors: the Recommended Minimum Illumination Specification, Objective Lens F-number, Detector Pixel Size, Night Vision Module availability.
As such, but criteria enabling the comparison of these including: objective lens F-number, pixel size, electronic noise reduction, It is apparent that low-light performance as detailed on the list of the camcorders specifications because different cameras can produce varying results, even though the specifications may be similar.
Consequently, once you’ve identified a few different camcorders that have the features of interest and the performance that you require, it is important to test the camcorder’s low-light capabilities.
Recommended Minimum Illumination Specification:
Quite often, low-light performance specifications are provided on a camcorder’s specification sheet. These are usually described as either “low light sensitivity” or “minimum illumination” and the result is given in lux. The lower the lux rating, the better the camcorder performs in low light. However, because the details describing how these low-light measurements are made is not often provided, it is extremely difficult to compare these figures when comparing different camcorder models from different manufacturers. (What’s the assumed reflectivity of the objects being viewed? What’s the signal-to-noise ratio? Image brightness? etc.). As such, use of these specifications is complicated and not often satisfying. It is obviously best to test the camcorders yourself. Some websites (such as camcorderinfo.com) perform their own very rigorous tests.
Detector Pixel Size:
Not only is the detector array size important, but the physical size of the detector is also important for a number of reasons. Most often, small detector physical sizes (such as 1/6″ format) are found in less expensive camcorders while larger detectors (e.g. 1/3″ format) are found in higher performance camcorders. Physically small detectors require small, less expensive lenses and result in compact, lower cost camcorders. For surveillance applications, an important consideration is that light sensitivity decreases with pixel size. While larger pixels in general have more light sensitivity and are superior when imaging in low light or at night, larger pixels also result in a decrease in resolution (in consideration of a particular focal length lens). Also, larger pixels with large array sizes result in large arrays and large lenses. So, smaller pixels are often preferable. One should compare the sensitivity of camcorders with the smallest pixels with other camcorders being considered. Pixel sizes for a variety of digital camcorders are shown in the accompanying chart (reference at link below).
Objective Lens F-Number:
As with SLR cameras, lens F-number is extremely important to a camcorder’s low light sensitivity. All other things being equal, a lens with a low f-number (such as F1.4) focuses much of the light from the scene onto the camcorder’s sensitive imaging detector. A lens with an F-number that is twice as high (F2.8) will pass only 25% of the light through it, making the camcorder 25% as sensitive. That’s a lot! For compact camcorders with integral lenses, sometimes the objective lens must be designed with a relatively high F-number in order to retain the compact design yet deliver the desirable zoom range. In particular, one finds that the F-number at the longer focal length values increases slightly. F-numbers at the maximum zoom setting for a variety of digital camcorders are shown in the accompanying chart (reference at link below).
Night Vision Module Availability:
For camcorders to be used for surveillance applications, the availability of a night vision module can be quite important, particularly for imaging at a distance and at night. Camcorders simply do not have sufficient light sensitivity to enable imaging in these environments. However, by attaching a night vision module such as those shown on our site at http://www.electrophysics.com/night-vision, the light sensitivity of the camcorder can be increased by up to ten F-stops. As is well known, the resulting night vision images will be green, absent of all color. But, reasonable images can be produced in starlight and moonlight. Some of these night vision modules can be seen by clicking on the link below.
Other Factors To Consider
In evaluating camcorders for surveillance applications, resolution and sensitivity are usually the primary considerations, other factors may deserve attention. Some of these are listed below.
Media: “Media” refers to where the video will be stored. Many camcorders utilize several different media types. The following are the common types of media and some considerations for surveillance applications:
MiniDV Tape – These have been used for many years. The downside is the need to fast forward and rewind rather than direct access. However, they are known to be quite reliable, they are widely available and rugged. In addition, it is often convenient to have physical media with surveillance footage rather than a soft copy only which could more easily be misplaced or mislabeled.
MiniDVD – Though a familiar media, it may not be as convenient as one expects since the DVD often cannot be directly inserted into DVD players. Also, recording in the highest quality sometimes results in significantly lower capacity.
Hard Disk Drive (HDD) – These are generally high capacity media (e.g. 120 gigabytes) with long record times. Backup is obviously important and necessary. Also note carefully if compressed video is being used for storage in order to increase the available capacity.
Flash Memory – Flash memory (such as solid state memory and memory cards) is very attractive since there are no moving parts resulting in a compact and efficient design. Capacities are increasing every year.
Image stabilization:
Image stabilization is a camcorder feature that helps improve image quality during hand-held video recordings, reducing blur due to camcorder motion. The stabilizer instantly corrects camcorder shake so that hand held shots at full telephoto (such as video taken from a moving car) are smooth and steady. These image stabilizers can be either optical or digital in design. Optical image stabilizers usually manipulate a prism in the lens to stabilize the image when projected on the camcorder detector. Digital image stabilizers usually sense the camcorder motion and, taking advantage of extra rows and columns on the perimeter of the detector, shift the image an appropriate amount to stabilize certain types of motion. Normally, the optical image stabilizers, though more expensive, are preferable since they better remove the blur component of the motion.
Lens interchangeability:
Many lower cost camcorders have non-removable objective lenses. These lenses are compact and highly integrated into the camcorder’s housing, have a very wide zoom range and even macro capability. Normally, the field-of-view of the integrated zoom lens is selected to achieve the FOV range desired for most applications. However, for increased versatility, higher-end camcorders offer a removable lens and a lens mount so that a series of lenses can be offered for a wider variation of applications, including wider angle and more telephoto viewing. (See a list of mid-range camcorders having removable lenses here). For non-removable lens camcorders, if wider angle or more telephoto FOV values are required, adapters are sometimes offered to change the magnification as desired. But the result is a reduction in optical quality. For the surveillance videographer, interchangeable lenses can be a great benefit if the magnification offered by fixed lens camcorders isn’t sufficient for the desired application. In addition, night vision modules that are designed for removable lens camcorders fit between the lens and camcorder and retain all that objective lens’ functions including motorized zoom, auto-iris and image stabilization.
Digital zoom:
Digital zoom is an important feature for any camcorder. Because it is not possible to appreciate all the imaging detector’s resolution on the camcorder’s viewfinder or display panel, digital zoom enables the operator to view details on the viewfinder that would otherwise go unnoticed until digital images were later analyzed. In addition, it’s useful to note that a detector having a larger pixel array enables the operator to perform more digital zoom than with a camcorder having a smaller detector without the effects of pixelization.
User interface:
Any camcorder operator will confirm that accessibility to features is of some importance. Drilling down through sub-menu after sub-menu to access routine functions is not a desirable thing to do while in the field.
Infrared mode:
Some camcorders feature a sensitivity to near infrared light permitting the use of an infrared illuminator to brighten scenes. For a variety of reasons, these illuminators are not applicable for many surveillance situations. For one thing, normally the illuminators included with the camcorders do not project sufficient illumination at the distances of interest. In addition, they can be detected by others with most camcorders and CCD cameras.
Manual Gain:
For low-light situations, some camcorders offer a manual gain mode that permits the user to manually adjust the gain in the video image, usually increases up to +18dB. Though grainy, for surveillance applications, the video images are normally a significant improvement over non-gained or even auto-gained versions.
Shutter Speed:
If maintaining the standard frame rate (for example 60Hz) is not necessary because the objects under observation are not moving quickly, the frame rate and detector shutter speed can be reduced (for example to 1/3 sec) so that each of the sensor’s pixels will integrate light over a longer time that they are exposed. In darkened environments, selecting the longest acceptable integration time may be sufficient to provide a usable image at dusk or dawn.
External Audio inputs:
In order to prevent the appearance of sounding like a pure optics geek, it is important to mention that audio quality and access to external audio inputs is important for the surveillance videographer. The built-in microphone doesn’t always work well when shooting images far away or when you need something more directional to filter out ambient noise.
Viewfinder:
When performing covert surveillance, having a viewfinder on the camcorder is sometimes important in order to prevent the illumination from the bright LCD panel.
Robustness:
Another serious compromise is the lack of robustness in camera hardware – the flimsy switches and controls that cause videographers stress. When you’re out in the field under possibly dangerous conditions, you don’t want to be playing around with little controls and LCD panels that easily come apart.
Price:
Of course, price is always a consideration when evaluating the many many camcorders models available today. But, what these guidelines should show is that very often, the most expensive camcorder may not be the best for a specific application. Understand what features are most beneficial for your application in consideration of camcorder price range.
Conclusion
Technology improvements in CCD and CMOS image sensors as well as the introduction of new high definition display and recording formats have resulted in the introduction of lots of different digital camcorder models. Guidelines have been provided when evaluating camcorders for use in surveillance applications.
For surveillance, optical image quality is of highest importance. Camcorder resolution and sensitivity are the primary factors to consider, with a variety of related factors such as image and pixel fields-of-view, the pixel size, as well as the frame rate, image stabilization, alternative lens options and lens interchangeability, integration mode, digital zoom and display resolution, user interface, video formats, recording media, manual gain, infrared mode, video compression, external audio inputs, viewfinder, robustness, and video compression.
While these are useful guidelines for understanding important camcorder specs, prior to making your own camcorder purchase decision, we suggest that you perform your own research of available models and, based on these guidelines, select those models that are expected to deliver the best performance and perform your own tests under real-life situations. You may learn that other factors may be important to your specific application and that your final decision is a compromise of those other factors.
To View all figures and illustrations referenced in this article, CLICK HERE
DISCLAIMER: We have made every attempt to provide accurate information. However, we cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies. Should you identify errors or require assistance, please contact us directly. Thank you.
Reviewipad Digital Video Camcorder Digital Video Camera
May 15, 2010
Sony MHS-PM5/L bloggie Mobile 5MP HD Snap Video Camera (Blue) with 4x Digital Zoom + 8GB Deluxe Accessory Kit Review
Sony MHS-PM5/L bloggie Mobile 5MP HD Snap Video Camera (Blue) with 4x Digital Zoom + 8GB Deluxe Accessory Kit Feature
- Sony MHS-PM5 bloggie Mobile 5MP HD Snap Video Camera with 4x Digital Zoom
- 8 Gigabyte SD Secure Digital Memory Card
- Replacement NP-BK1 Battery Pack – Sony LCS-CSVC Carrying Case
- Package of LCD Screen Protectors – Mini Tripod w/ Extendable Legs
- Deluxe Cleaning and Care Kit
Sony MHS-PM5/L bloggie Mobile 5MP HD Snap Video Camera (Blue) with 4x Digital Zoom + 8GB Deluxe Accessory Kit Overview
The bloggie camera lets you record your favorite moments in High Definition MP4 (H.264) format and features a 5MP CMOS sensor that lets you take crisp 5MP still images. MP4 is a popular multimedia format that compresses the size of your audio and video, making your media files small enough to easily transfer to your compatible PC or Mac. MP4 is also highly compatible with the Web, so you can effortlessly upload your media to popular photo or video-sharing Web sites like Photobucket® or YouTube. (Compatible PC with internet capability required).
The bloggie camera’s horizontal playback feature lets you record video while holding the camcorder in its natural, upright position, and when you want to play back your movies, simply rotate the camera into a landscape (horizontal) position to take full advantage of the 2.4″ LCD display.
The bloggie camera features a unique lens that swivels up to 270 degrees and, when rotated, instantly powers on the camera so you can start recording video or taking still shots immediately.
KIT INCLUDES:
* 8GB SD MEMORY CARD.
* REPLACEMENT NP-BK1 BATTERY PACK.
* SONY LCS-CSVC CASE.
* LCD SCREEN PROTECTORS.
* MINI TRIPOD.
* CLEANING KIT.
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: May 14, 2010 23:45:30
Digital Video Camcorder Reviewipad Camcorder Buying Guide
Tagged: Festina May 15, 2010
With all of the choices on the market, it can definitely be overwhelming choosing a digital camcorder. There are several things to consider when shopping. A lot of brands can now record in high definition, but, there are some limitations to having an HD camcorder, such as incompatible video editing software.
The amount of zoom should also be taken into account, but, not the digital zoom. The higher the digital zoom, the more the resolution is decreased, making for blurry, pixelated pictures.
The optical zoom, however, will actually let you zoom in on your subject without sacrificing the picture quality. The optical zoom and the digital zoom are often not differentiated clearly on the manufacturer’s information. Keeping this in mind, paying close attention to the specs, and not being ‘fooled’ by a high digital zoom number on the camera box, will help to make sure you wind up with clearer zoomed pictures and videos.
Another thing to consider is the size of the viewing, or LCD, screen. The LCD screen is both the viewfinder and the playback screen, so having a large one would be beneficial. The cost will go up as the size of the screen goes up, however. On the subject of size, the size of the camcorder itself, along with the weight, are important things to consider. Most electronics for sale today boast of their tiny size. This has not always proven to be a good thing. If the camera is too small for you to properly hold onto, or operate the different functions, then you will want to think about getting a larger one.
A very important feature of a digital camcorder is the microphone. If you can hear more of the activity around the person filming than the subject, then this is definitely a good thing. One way to help alleviate this issue is to make sure you get a camcorder with a front-mounted microphone, as opposed to a top-mounted microphone. Some camcorders even come with audio zoom for the microphone, that zooms the audio when the picture is zoomed.
There are lots of different features to check out when buying a camcorder, like what kind of battery is needed and how long it will last. Doing some research online and asking lots of questions at the store will help you make an informed decision.
Camcorder Buyer Guide Camcorder Buying Guide
May 15, 2010
Sony Handycam HDR-HC9 – Camcorder – High Definition – widescreen – 3.2 Mpix – optical zoom: 10 x – Mini DV (HDV) Review
Sony Handycam HDR-HC9 – Camcorder – High Definition – widescreen – 3.2 Mpix – optical zoom: 10 x – Mini DV (HDV) Feature
Sony Handycam HDR-HC9 – Camcorder – High Definition – widescreen – 3.2 Mpix – optical zoom: 10 x – Mini DV (HDV) Overview
Record your memories in HD brilliance. The HDR-HC9 MiniDV HD Handycam Camcorder delivers high definition quality and versatility with a professional grade Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens, 10x optical / 20x digital zoom, and a 3.2 megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor for stunning video and 6.1 megapixel still images. Use the Dual Record Mode to capture still images and video at the same time, while Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization helps ensure clear images. View everything you shoot on the 2.7″ wide Clear Photo LCD Plus display featuring touch panel technology. Even save your still images directly to a Memory Stick PRO Duo media card (sold separately) to easily transfer and share your photos.
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: May 13, 2010 18:15:09
Digital Video Camera
May 14, 2010
Sony is known among the world leaders for quality electronic goods. Sony digital cameras command high respect among the camera enthusiasts. Sony has recently introduced mainstream Alpha cameras. These cameras are designed for the first time digital SLR buyers.
Sony Alpha DSLR-A330 is among those three Alpha cameras. Sony Alpha DSLR-A330 allows first time users to upgrade from point-and-shoot digital still cameras. Other two cameras from this series are models DSLR-A380 and DSLR-A230.
Sony Alpha DSLR-A330 is designed to help the beginners shoot stunning pictures by overcoming the challenges faced by them. These cameras are designed to match the needs and demands of the customers.
Sony Alpha DSLR-A330 has a 10.2 mega pixels image sensor. Sony Alpha DSLR-A330 is compact, sleek and attractive. It is very light and user-friendly. You can operate it single-handedly by its intuitive control layout. It offers expansion options not found in other cameras. Along with this new Alpha camera, there come such lenses and accessories which make it easy for a beginner to shoot stunning images without any formal learning which other traditional DSLRs required.
Sony Alpha DSLR-A330 also includes features like SteadyShot INSIDE. It is an in-camera image stabilization feature which helps reduce the blur in the pictures occurring due to camera shake.
In addition, it has the Sony’s Quick Autofocus (AF) Live View technology. You can easily frame pictures on the LCD screen of the camera and also on the optical viewfinder. The rapid response of the viewfinder is maintained due to this feature and the dedicated image sensor.
There is a 2.7 inch large Photo LCD screen. It allows you to view clear images even in bright sunlight. Besides, you can tilt this screen up or down, helping you to frame the object at any position. You can get shots even from difficult angles. It is simply a fun camera.
With an adjustable LCD and Quick AF live View, you need not hold the camera in front of your face. You can hold it naturally and can encourage subject to have natural expressions.
You can connect this camera with HDTV with the help of HDMI terminal. However, you need a HDMI cable to achieve this. You can view your photos in the high definition quality.
Apart from A-330, other Sony cameras also delivers pictures of excellent quality. Once you compare the features and prices of several DSLR cameras, you can easily decide. You can read online reviews also about these cameras before you purchase any.
Ipadblog
May 13, 2010
“Keep it simple stupid” and that is just what Pure Digital Technologies (theflip.com) did when it produced the Flip Video Camcorder a couple of years ago with only eight buttons. This small San Francisco based company produced the model F130W that would record up to 30 minutes of video with 512MB of internal memory (MRP $119.99). A second Flip Video camera model F160W was capable of 60 minutes of video with 1GB of internal memory (MRP $149.99). The Flip was first offer at Target but now you can get them at Best Buy and even Wal Mart. At Wal Mart the F130W is now $98.84 and $117.84 for the F160W.
This year and just in time for Christmas giving 2007 is the Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder. Once again produced in a 30 minute and 60 minute model. The model F230W (MRP $149.99) is the 30 minute Flip and compared to the F260W (MRP $179.99) the internal memory is greater (1GB). Both models can be purchased through several on-line retailers but we found that Wal Mart had the best price at $119.54 for the 30 minute F230W and $149.54 for the 60 minute F260W. The F230W and F260W Flip does not replace the F130W and F160W. You can still buy these Flip’s at a lower cost now.
The flip makes it simple to share your video’s with built in software that is compatible with Windows 2000, Windows Vista and Mac. You can organize, edit and share in just a few simple steps. All you do is flip out the USB arm and plug into your Desk Top PC or Laptop. The software also make it incredibly simple to publish your video directly YouTube and AOL Video.
Accessorize your Flip Video Ultra Camcorders with soft pouches that protects in style. Is your USB port hard to reach? Pure Digital Technologies provides long USB cables. One really cool accessory is the “Action Mount” that can be mounted just about anywhere for hands free use of your Flip including handlebars, helmets and other gear. Shoot steady video with a Flip Video tripod. Available only on the Flip Ultra.
Flip Video Camcorder Talkaboutipad
May 13, 2010
Sony has done it again with another top notch High Defintion Television Model. The Sony Bravia W-Series KDL-40W4100 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV would be a great addition to any Home Theater System.
Like watching Sports, Movies or other fast moving action on your telvision, then this High Definition television has got what you are looking for. It all starts with its 120hz motionflow technology which really enhances the way we watch these type of fast moving programs on our Television. The clarity and colors that are brought out in the Sony Bravia W-Series are unreal and will make you want to watch your Television as much as possible.
The Sony Bravia W-Series KDL-40W4100 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV also offers TruSurround which is a patented SRS technology that solves the problem of playing 5.1 multichannel content over two speakers. TruSurround delivers a great virtual surround sound experience through any two-speaker playback system, including internal television speakers and headphones. It is fully compatible with all multichannel formats up to 5.1 channels. High-quality virtual surround sound can be experienced with just the two hidden, downward-firing side-mounted 2.2-channel dome speakers built into the TV. TruSurroundAl XT audio also adds three audio enhancement technologies to produce an amazing sound experience. Great Sound along with the great picture quality really make this Sony Bravia model a must have.
Also looking for great connectivity in your new High definition Television? The Sony Bravia W-Series has everything you need including 4 HDMI connections, 2 video component video inputs and also a PC Input. The BRAVIA Sync is now being introduced as the name for a new family of control features that not only includes BRAVIA Theatre Sync, but will now include BRAVIA Sync. This feature allows the user to control a CEC-enabled camcorder connected to a BRAVIA HDTV via an HDMI cable by using the HDTV’s remote control and an on-screen display that shows camcorder transport functions. With all these great extras the Sony Bravia 40 Inch HDTV is a great deal.
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Camcorder Buyer Guide Newipad
Tagged: 40Inch, audience, Bravia, Chester, Coffin, KDL40W4100, Linkin, MythBusters, Rebellion, WSeries May 13, 2010
Canon FS21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder with 16 GB Internal Memory and 37x Optical Zoom Review
First off, let’s be clear, this is a standard definition camera. Even thought Cannon’s high-definition camcorders (HF) series are within about 0 of the price of this camera, I decided to stay with standard definition (for now) for the following reasons:
1. I wanted ease of transfer and an easy ability to edit and burn DVD’s of my videos without having to upgrade my whole set up to handle the HD recording format.
2. Video editing times for HD video are ridiculously, painflully long. I have a quad core with 8 GB of ram and the time to compile a video project was crazy. I simply think the HD video has outpaced current home computing power. Maybe in another couple years computers will catch up.
3. Most of the software that I’ve tried that have the capability of editing and burning hi-def video are very unstable. Again, I just think that the home editing technology hasn’t caught up withthe video technology yet. there seems to be a lot of compatibility issues with the MPEG4-AVC / H.264 high definition media format.
So I decided to stick with a standard definition camera (for now). I chose this camera because:
1. Dual flash drive memory format. I’m so sick of dealing with direct to DVD or DV video cameras, and all of the issues of transfering and converting that information to the computer. I wanted something that got recorded directly to solid state…no more read errors or disc errors. This fits the bill wonderfully! Video gets recorded directly to camera’s internal memory, plug it into the computer and it downloads quickly and painlessly to and MPEG format. No more dealing with .VOB DVD files! Two thumbs up here.
2. Cannon optical zoom. Very good zoom. Maintains quality throughout the zoom range. Prior to this camera, the most zoom I ever had in a cam corder was 10 time optical. Having this much zoom is a big bonus.
3. Built in light and mike jack. Although the built in video light isn’t tremendously powerful, it is better than no light at all. And I love the external mike jack. I can record performaces of friends bands with an audio line out directly from the PA console. Makes for super sound quality in otherwise difficult audio conditions. Most cameras at this price point don’t have either option.
4. Cannon name. I’ve always gone back and forth between Cannon, Nikon, and Panasonic for camera/video products. Althought this is a generalization, Cannon always seems to have the most accurate colors. Especially in the blues…Cannon seems to have the “bluest” blues and the competitors always seem to have a purplish tint to their blues.
My experience has been good. I confess I have been a bit disappointed with the video quality, but i have to keep reminding myself this is a standard definition camera. It looks as good if not slightly better than my past video cameras. I was hoping the video quality would be significantly better, but perhaps that was just an unrealistic expectation on my part.
I’ve had no problems with the included softare. Everything installed easy as pie and began downloading test videos without any error. The resulting files downloaded to the computer are MPeg files, which are able to be played by a host of media players (Windows Media Player, Real Player, VLC Media player, etc.) as well as the bundled software. I e-mailed some files to family and they were able to open in WMP by double clicking on the attachment. I’m so happy with the ease of downloading, sharing, and editing files that I wish I bought a camera like this years ago.
I will say that the included video editing software is OK, but if you want to do anything other than the most basic trimming and joining of clips for burning to a DVD, you will need third party software. I could get by with what’s included, by as I’ve gotten better and more practice at creating and editing home movies, I’m enjoying a lot of the flashy feature of my third party video editing software. But for basic DVD creation, the software is adequate.
Finally, the camera is very compact and lightweight. No more big camera bags to lug around. I can fit this in my jacket pocket. Overall very happy with this camrea. I was looking for something that was much more user friendly than my past error-riddled cameras, and I found it.
Canon FS21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder with 16 GB Internal Memory and 37x Optical Zoom Feature
- Dual Flash Memory; record up to 10 hours of video to a 16 GB internal Flash drive as well as directly to removable SDHC memory cards
- Genuine Canon 48x Advanced Zoom gets you closer and wider, while preserving image quality
- 1.07 MP CCD image sensor; Canon DIGIC DV II image processor
- Widescreen HR recording; 2.7-inch widescreen LCD
- Ultra-sleek, lightweight design allows you to take your camcorder with you anywhere
Canon FS21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder with 16 GB Internal Memory and 37x Optical Zoom Overview
Its always great to have options. The new Canon FS21Dual Flash Memory camcorder gives you two easy optionsfor shooting your videos. Record video for up to 10 hoursto a 16GB internal Flash drive or directly to SDHC memorycards for fast and easy sharing of your memories. Nowyoull have no worries about running out of memory whenyou are capturing lifes big moments. Plus, the CanonFS21 features Canons 48x Advanced Zoom to get youcloser to the action and a 1.07-megapixel CCD imagesensor for vivid color and stunning image clarity. For lifesbumps and jumps, theres an Image Stabilizer to makeyour shots rock-steady. Pre-Record lets you capture video3 seconds before you press the record button. And anIntelligent Lithium-ion battery can be recharged quickly andkeeps you shooting longer. Ultra-sleek and lightweight, theCanon FS21 is lightning fast and stylishly designed. Soexercise your options. Go for the camcorder that gives youquality and choice–the Canon FS21. Canon USA 1-yearlimited warranty included.
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: May 12, 2010 02:00:18
Camcorder Buying Guide Ipadblog
May 12, 2010
With the Fathers Day barely a month away many of us are still hunting for gifts for Dad. For many of us choosing a present for Dad is a challenging and daunting task. After all, a Dad is a person who has provided us everything ever since we are born and still continue to support us in whatever way possible. The concept of giving Gifts to father or father like persons in our life like grandfather, step father, father in law, uncle or whoever is like a father to us on Father’s Day is a wonderful way to express our gratitude for all the love and support they have given us.
We can never compensate for what our Fathers have done for us but the least we could do is express our gratitude. But what do we give a person who has given us everything in life? However, if we consider his personality, interests and hobbies coming up with a unique gift idea for Dad should not be difficult. Gifts like flowers may not be ideal when it comes to gifts for Dad but he may like manly gifts. If Dad likes fishing or golf, a fish rod or a golf kit would be appreciated by him. Similarly if Dad is someone who likes to be well groomed always gifts like sunglasses, cologne, cufflinks, ties, watch, wallet etc should work well. If Dad likes Gadgets then he should like latest gadgets. Gadgets like Apple iPods, Apple iPhone 3GS, Sony PSP, Garmin Hand held GPS, Blackberry Smart Phone, Digital Camera and Digital Camcorder etc are hot favorites with men. Men are also known to like Video games.
Everyone likes to be appreciated. So it is not wrong to say that a Dad would appreciate it too. Giving Dad a memento or trophy with the words ‘Worlds Best Dad’ or ‘Number 1 Dad’ would be a great idea. Similarly a Certificate with such words would not be a bad idea too. Some unique ideas can be writing a poem for him or buying him Lunar Real Estate or naming a star after him. When considering buying presents for father on father’s day, birthday or any special day in his life, health options like health insurance policy or health club membership should work well too. In fact anything we know that Dad would like would be an ideal present for him. On second thoughts, I think for a father any gift given by a child would be special no matter how cheap or costly it is. It is the feelings with which we give the gifts make it special one.
On this Father’s day which falls on the 3rd week of June (June 20th, 2010) let us take the opportunity to show how much we appreciate him not only by buying Gifts for Dad but also by spending some time with him talking to him and by giving him a warm hug too.
Newipad Hd Camcorder Reviews Reviewipad
May 12, 2010
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