HD video cam with 120GB drive records 50 hours

The camera has a dual AVCHD/MPEG-2 Codec HD Signal-Processing LSI meaning you can change the codec (compression algorithm) you use. Swap to the MPEG-2 TS 1920x1080 codec and the camera offers 10 hours of recording time but at a higher bit rate, and hence more attractive to hi-def enthusiasts for editing.

The GZ-HD40 uses a 2.68-megapixel CMOS sensor which begins capturing footage inside a tenth of a second. The optical zoom is 10X and the other main thrust of JVC’s new camera is a vastly improved clip navigation and grouping database system, which enables you to carry a well cataloged selection of your work on board if you wish to use it as an impromptu presentation tool. Adequate on-board cataloging is a must when you begin to have this amount of storage in a handheld.

Part of this new data management strategy for Victor will be the sale of the AVCHD/MPEG-2-capable disk writer which is designed expressly so you can use the camera to burn footage onto a DVD – no PC required. This is another workflow boon and comes at the price of around JPY 50,000 (USD$465) for the convenience.

Via Gadgetwatch