Digital Camcorder Tape Formats

Okay, so now that you have a digital camcorder, what kind of digital camcorder tape format do you use? The reigning digital camcorder tape format is Mini DV, a quarter-inch tape housed in a cassette the size of a DAT tape. Size is the principle factor that distinguishes mini DV from other tape formats as well as higher resolution in comparison to VHS. Some Digital Camcorders can use two different kinds of digital tape formats like Hi-8 and 8mm. Mini DV Camcorders can only use Mini DV tape format.

Other Digital Camcorders such as Sony's Micro MV camcorder use micro MV tapes, which are half the size of the Mini DV tape. If you have a DVD-RAM camcorder then you need to use the 3-inch discs to record. Discs have a large advantage because you can view them from anywhere with a DVD drive, but they are still not as common and relatively expensive. Having the right digital camcorder accessories for your digital camcorder is essential. Do it right at Digital Camcorder Review and Outlet.com!

Digital Camcorder Still Resolution

Unless you're an Impressionist painter, you don't want your picture to look grainy. That's why it's important to know about Digital Camcorder Still Resolution. Still resolution is determined by the number of pixels in any given image. The more pixels in the image, the better, or higher, the resolution and therefore the quality of the image.

Digital Camcorders can often take digital still images if they have a CCD that can make progressive scans. Unlike interlaced scans used for video capture where odd and even rows are scanned as separate fields, progressive scans capture all lines in the image one after the other. Although the still-image resolution is often lower than that offered by Digital Cameras, the convenience of having video and still image capability built into one unit is very attractive. Visit our pages on Digital Cameras for more information.

Digital Recording Information

Once you've made the decision on which digital camcorder is right for you, now you'll need the digital recording information to use it. While anyone can use a digital camcorder, it never hurts to get a few pointers. Just like any new piece of equipment, it takes a little time to get familiar with the feel of the digital camcorder as well as getting a handle on all its features. If you review the Digital Camcorder FAQ and Camcorder History sections you'll have more fun faster and avoid beginner's frustration.