Instruction manual

42
4.1 Basic Terms and Features
4.1.1 Lens and Zoom
Unlike digital cameras, camcorders normally just list the zoom power. For
example, the Optura20 has a 16x optical (320x digital) zoom lens; behind this lens
is a 1/4" CCD with 1.33 million pixels (690,000 pixels for videos and 1.23 million
for still photos). [Note that when you are saving stills to a memory card, the zoom
drops slightly (e.g., from 16x to 15X on the Optura20).]
Like we discussed in the section on digital cameras, you should turn off the
camcorder’s digital zoom feature for CAP missions.
4.1.2 Viewfinders
Like digital cameras, camcorders let you to frame your picture using a
viewfinder and an LCD screen. Remember that the optical viewfinder doesn’t
show the entire scene.
Most camcorder viewfinders have a diopter adjustment. This works the same
as discussed in the chapter on digital cameras.
4.1.3 Batteries
Camcorders consume even more power than digital cameras. You need to
use high-performance lithium ion or NiMH rechargeable batteries and you really
need a spare set. Also, an AC adapter is an even more important accessory for a
camcorder; you will need it to conserve your batteries when you view, edit or
transfer photos.
4.1.4 Tape Format
Camcorders record on several different types of film, such as MiniDV, Digital
8, MicroMV, DVD and HD. Each is discussed later.
Like digital cameras, many newer camcorders allow you to record still and
moving images onto a memory card. Most use the newer Secure Digital (SD)
and/or Multimedia Card (MMC) formats, while some use the Sony MemoryStick or
the SmartMedia. The size comparisons covered for the digital cameras are the
same. However, if you intend to record moving images onto the cards you need
large capacity cards and spares.
4.1.5 Connections
Most camcorders include USB, FireWire, S-Video, Microphone, A/V
(headphones), and DC-in ports. These connections allow video (or stills) from a
camcorder to be viewed on a monitor or transferred to a computer. [Note: Editing
digital video on a computer is not covered in this text.]