Sanyo VPC-HD1 Digital Camcorder

The Sanyo VPC-HD1 Xacti Digital Media Camera with 10x Optical Zoom is a high-definition compact digital media device that combines the functionality of a digital camera and a digital camcorder. Different than a standard digital camera that shoots short video clips, the VPC-HD1 offers advanced, video performance and high-quality stills in one small, lightweight camera. This powerful little device is designed to record both 720-pixel high-definition video and snap 5.1-megapixel digital still images, all of which are handily stored to a standard SD flash memory card. The high-precision LSI (large-scale integration) for image processing is the real "muscle" behind the Xacti HD1's ability to record high-definition video. This powerful "high-definition engine" processes a massive number of calculations in a short period of time and enables the HD1's high-definition 720-pixel processing, real-time MPEG-4 compression, and noise reduction.The HD1 features a top-of-the-line screen with an incredibly clear 2.2-inch, Sanyo-developed Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) display with 210,000 total pixels. The display flips out from the camera and rotates up to 285 degrees on an axis that allows you to take great video or still images from otherwise-difficult-to-view positions. The OLED display technology features an expanded viewing angle and up to 5,000 times faster response speed when compared with conventional display technologies. What this means to the user is a smooth playback of even the most rapid movements. And when not in use, the screen tucks securely back into the side of the camera for a pocket-sized portability and convenience.Leading the HD1's charge towards crisp digital video and stills is the prominently displayed, highly efficient 10x optical zoom lens. The lens features 12 elements designed in nine groups with a built-in neutral density filter, and a maximum aperture of f3.5 in both wide and telephoto angles. This construction allows for clear images in even low-light situations. Combine the optical zoom with a 10x digital zoom capability, and the HD1 is capable of an amazing 100x total zoom.As with all of Sanyo's previous digital media cameras, the HD1 can record still images in addition to video. A newly developed CCD captures beautiful 5.1-megapixel still images which are stored directly onto any standard SD memory card. The camera also features rapid continuous still shooting, red eye reduction, and an anti-shake digital image stabilizer. While conventional digital camcorders can often snap stills, they are usually low quality. And while conventional digital cameras can record short video, they are frequently grainy with a slow response speed. The Xacti HD1 can do it all, recording both 5.1-megapixel still images and high-definition (1280 x 720-pixel) digital video on the same unit. You can even snap a still image while recording digital video with the simple press of the shutter button.The HD1 can record over 21 minutes of 720-pixel HD video on a single 1 GB SD card, or over 42 minutes on a 2 GB card. Alternately, the camera allows you to record in Standard Definition (640 x 480-pixels at 30 frames per second progressive) for up to two hours on a 2 GB SD card. If you're looking to shoot home videos of the kids carving pumpkins or a dance recital, you can easily store hours of video footage using the standard definition setting. If high quality is your goal, then change the settings and get crystal clear high definition video. Switching between recording modes is a breeze; you simply press the "HD/Norm" button located on the display side of the camera body. Last, but not least, the Xacti HD1 is ergonomically designed with a comfortable, one-handed grip and convenient, thumb-operated controls that make it exceptionally easy to use whenever opportunity strikes. minimize