Canon launches two new DV cam ranges

 

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Posted on 5 Jan 2005 at 11:01

Canon has launched two new digital video camera ranges, the compact 1.33 megapixel MVX300 series and the entry-level MV800 series.

The MVX300 range comprises the MVX350i, MVX330i and MVX300 digital video cameras. The MVX350i features a 20x optical zoom (400x combined), while the MVX330i and MVX300 both feature an 18x zoom (360x combined). The cameras incorporate a high-resolution 16:9 mode, built in mini video light (MVX350i), digital still flash (MVX350i and MVX330i), Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS) to reduce shake and large 2.5in 123K pixel LCD screen.

The 1.33 Megapixel 1/4.5 inch CCD sensor utilises 1.23 effective megapixels when recording to memory card and 860k effective pixels when recording to miniDV tape.

All models have Canon's DIGIC DV processor for split path video and still image processing. All are PictBridge compliant and feature a Print/Share button for simple PC-less printing of digital stills direct to compatible photo printers, and PC/internet uploads. The MVX350i comes with a 0.6x wide converter lens.

Special external buttons include LCD Backlight button, used to raise the brightness of the LCD display in order to improve visibility during recording and playback, and a special Night Mode button to switch quickly into low light operation without menu navigation. A Tape/Card selector simplifies selection of recording media, while a new 'Easy' button can be used to switch between fully automatic and manual modes; ideal for new users and occasions when there is no time to adjust settings.

Internet sharing of clips and footage has been simplified with the capacity to record Motion-JPEG files direct to the MMC or SD memory cards. In-camera conversion of footage stored on tape into Motion-JPEG and transfer to MMC or SD card is supported. Depending on memory card capacity, up to 60 minutes of Motion JPEG can be recorded straight to card.

The MV800 series cameras - the MV850i, MV830i, MV830 and MV800 - are designed to be easy operation camcorders for first-time buyers.

A new 'Easy' button which puts the camcorder into full auto mode has been introduced for the benefit of users looking for immediate, uncomplicated results straight out of the box. All models in the range feature a powerful optical zoom: 22x (440x combined) for the MV850i and 20x for the MV830i, MV830 and MV800. They also feature Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS), high-resolution true 16:9 wide screen mode with letterbox display, a double neutral density filter, and webcam functionality, Super Night mode (MV850i) and Night Mode.

The MV850i, MV830i and MV830 feature digital still capability plus PictBridge for direct printing to compatible photo printers without the computer.

Despite their tiny size (only 51mm thick and weighing just 430g), the digital video cameras feature a large 2.4in colour LCD screen and are powered with the same DIGIC-DV processor used to drive Canon's high-end digital video cameras.

Both ranges will be available from February 2005.

Author: Simon Aughton