If you live in an area that is prone to theft, a wireless video camera can help secure the safety of your family and property.  Surveillance cameras can come in small sizes, allowing them to be hidden from view.  On the other hand, you may wish to keep your wireless video camera in plain view to act as a deterrent.

No Ugly Wires

The biggest advantage when using a wireless video camera is that there are no ugly wires to mess up your place.  You can install the surveillance camera anywhere in your home or business establishment.  Some security cameras are designed to transmit through walls, floor, ceilings and doors.

Small Size

Wireless video cameras are usually small.  You can find a surveillance camera that is the size of a baseball or even smaller.  Wireless security cameras can be hidden away, allowing you to monitor suspicious activity without being detected.

Outdoor Security Cameras

To ensure the safety of your home and family you can use a wireless outdoor video camera to monitor activity around your home.  Weather resistant video cameras can be installed outdoors, hidden in trees, plants, or under the eaves of the house.  For round-the-clock security, you can opt for a wireless night security camera.

Setting Up a Wireless Video System

A wireless video system consists of a wireless video camera and a receiver, such as a TV or computer.  Best results are achieved with a clear line of sight between the wireless camera and receiver.  It’s possible that trees, walls, concrete, steel and other obstructions can prevent the wireless video signals from penetrating, so find the best location for your wireless video system.

Wireless security systems are now easy to install and use.  With new developments in technology they are becoming more cost-effective.  They do not require bulky wiring, and the newer systems do not need an external power supply.  Thus, setup is easy and less time-consuming.  All you have to do is mount the camera on the desired location.  If the need arises, the wireless video camera can be easily moved to another location.

An important benefit of using a wireless video camera is that it is difficult to disrupt the operation of a wireless system.  On the other hand, wired security systems are easily disabled.

Wireless video cameras are valuable for home and business use.  They can be used to protect homes and businesses against theft.  They are also useful for monitoring activities at home or in the office.  You’ll feel a lot safer with a wireless security system in place.

High definition video or HD video clips have a high resolution, usually at least 1024×768 pixels.  These days, nearly all still digital cameras are capable of shooting video clips.  However, not all of them can capture HD videos.  There are also digital cameras that can shoot HD video but only at slower frame rates.

Compact and Convenient

With an HD video camera, you can capture special events easily.  A pocket size camera resembles a mobile phone in size and shape and can fit in your purse or pocket.  You can take it anywhere with you– on adventure trips, parties, vacation, or clubbing.  A small LCD screen allows you to view your video clips.  Most HD pocket video cameras come with 4GB or more of internal memory.

Recording Media

Many HD video cameras these days are equipped with built-in storage in the form of an internal flash memory or hard drive.  The trend, however, is toward removable flash media such as SDHC as the primary recording medium.  The biggest advantage to using removable memory cards is that you can carry several of these with you, allowing you to increase your recording time as needed.  SDHC cards are becoming more affordable these days and their capacity is rapidly expanding.

The recorded files can be copied or uploaded to a PC easily.  Some HD video cameras are equipped with a built-in HDMI output so you can watch your captured videos on your HDTV.

Image Sensors

HD video cameras these days have either CMOS or CCD image sensor.  CMOS sensors are more prone to noise but they are more affordable than CCD sensors.  Video cameras have either 1 or 3 sensors.  Professional and prosumer HD video cameras are equipped with 3 sensors, producing sharper images and denser colors.

Image Stabilizers

An image stabilizer in an HD video camera makes it possible to capture steady and sharp videos all the time.  The camera may use either an optical or digital/electronic stabilizer.

Zoom

Zoom can be optical or digital, and it’s best to choose an HD video camera with optical zoom.  Digital zoom only enlarges the pixels, making the shots appear grainy.

Popular HD Video Cameras

Kodak, Sony, JVC, and Toshiba manufacture top-quality yet affordable HD video cameras.  The Flip video camera is one of the most popular models to hit the market.  Unfortunately, it was recently discontinued.

Other popular HD pocket video cameras are Sony Bloggie MHS-PM5 and Creative Vado HD.  You can visit gadget review sites to find out more about compact video cameras and check out their features and prices.

Simple to Use

Spontaneity is the selling point behind small video cameras.  They lack many of the capabilities of full size cameras but it is their very simplicity that makes them attractive to many people.  With a few buttons (that you can count on the fingers of one hand), you can begin to capture, record and view your videos.

Compact video cameras usually have small screens, about 2 inches, and often display only the most important information such as battery level and remaining video recording time.

You can easily take a small video camera around with you.  Whenever a picture-perfect moment comes up, you’re ready with your camera and can start shooting at once. 

Affordable

Because of their simplicity, pocket size video cameras are easy to use and are very affordable.  Limited menu options mean that manufacturers can keep prices low.  Prices can start below $100 and go up to about $150.  Factors that affect the price include materials used in construction, limited options, included software, and brand.

Quality

Depending on how much money you are willing to spend, you can get HD video on a small video camera.  A 720p resolution provides images that are sharp and clear.  However, you mustn’t expect too much from a pocket video camera.  They are usually equipped with lower-quality optics.  In many cases only minimal digital zooming is available.  Audio recording quality is good enough to get a decent sound.

Recording Capacity

Most models provide about an hour of built-in video storage via the camera’s internal flash memory.  A few models have the option to expand the memory using SD cards.

Software

Video cameras usually come with specialized software for processing and editing your captured video images.  A USB connector allows you to plug the unit into your computer.

Finding the Ideal Small Video Camera for You

If you are planning to purchase a pocket video camera the first thing you have to do is make a list of the features you want in your camera.  Determine how much you are willing to spend and find some pocket cameras that fall within your budget.  Write down the advantages and disadvantages of each camera.  Decide which small video camera offers the best features and quality that you can afford.  If there is a gadget store near you, a visit to the store may help you with your decision.

The first step in buying a camcorder is to identify the primary use for your camera.  You may only need a basic video camera for occasional use.  On the other hand, you may be looking for a video camera with more advanced features for professional recordings.

In order to find the right digital camcorder for your needs, you should know something about the different features and functions that various models offer.  This buying guide for digital video cameras will help you narrow down your choices.

1. Zoom

Look at the camera’s optical zoom ratio and simply ignore its digital zoom.  The optical zoom is what you need to achieve great-quality images from afar.  Digital zoom simply enlarges the image, making the video look grainy.  You will want at least 10x optical zoom.

2. LCD screen

Inspect the LCD screen in daylight or under bright lights.  Make sure you can easily see what you are recording.  Some screens will wash out when viewed under bright sunlight.

3. Image Stabilizer

When buying a digital video camera these days, an image stabilizer is a must-have feature.  A stabilizer will keep your video recording steadier, which means less fuzziness in your video clips even if your hands are shaking.

4. Microphones

A digital video camera with microphone will allow you to capture audio clips along with the images.  Some camcorders have built-in microphones.  Front-mounted microphones provide better results.  External microphones can also improve the audio quality.

5. Recording media

There are various types of recording media available, including Hard Disk Drive (HDD), DVD, and SD or SDHC memory cards.  Determine how much recording time you will need on average and find a digital video camera that can record for the requisite amount of time.  Don’t forget to take the battery life into consideration.  You may need extra, high capacity batteries too.

6. Camera’s controls

This feature is usually neglected in many digital video camera buying guides.  Before buying a camcorder, check out the camera’s controls.  Smaller camcorders may be difficult to use if you have large hands.  Make sure the buttons and controls are logically arranged and comfortable to use.  If the camcorder is touchscreen-based, make sure the interface is responsive and intuitive.

7. Ports and connectors

Your digital video camera should have the necessary ports and connectors needed to connect to your computer or store recorded video clips, such as USB and DV in/out.  An AV Out port is necessary if you want to view your videos from the camcorder on a television.

Canon offers a variety of compact and full size HD video cameras.  Not one to stint on features and quality, the company continues to deliver the high level of performance and premium quality that people have come to expect from any Canon product.  Just check out the affordable compact HD digital camcorders that Canon has to offer.

Canon Vixia HF R100

The Canon Vixia HF R100 is one of the favorites in the below-$400 price range.  Its sleek, compact and lightweight design allows you to take the video camera with you anywhere.

Canon uses an HD CMOS Image Sensor to capture HD video at 1920 x 1080p resolution.  The video camera is also fitted with Canon’s DIGIC DV III Image Processor to capture the most vivid colors and sharpest images.

Prices are kept at an affordable level with Canon’s use of the HD CMOS Image Sensor, which is easier and cheaper to produce than CCD image sensors.

HD video is directly recorded to removable SD memory cards, greatly expanding the video camera’s memory capacity.

Canon PowerShot SD4500 IS

Selling for about $250, the PowerShot SD4500 IS is Canon’s first compact video camera to capture full HD video at 1080p at 30 frames per second.  This is made possible by the camera’s high speed CMOS image sensor.  The CMOS sensor also allows the video camera to create slow-motion video.

With its 10x optical zoom and 10-megapixel image capture, the SD4500 is one of Canon’s most popular video cameras at this price point.

Canon PowerShot SX130 IS

For a budget camera (about $230), the Canon PowerShot SX130 is loaded with amazing features.  Reviewers call it the perfect combination of a still digital camera and video camera.  It is equipped with a powerful 12x wide-angle optical zoom, allowing you to zoom in and out as needed.  The camera captures video in 720p HD with clear stereo sound.  Unlike most video cameras, you can use the zoom while recording in HD resolution.  An Optical Image Stabilizer keeps all your shots and videos steady and crystal clear.

As customers become savvy when it comes to digital cameras, Canon now focuses on offering what people are looking for in a digital video camera– compact design, better lens, and HD video.

Before you go out and buy a kids’ video camera, there are a few things you have to consider when choosing a camcorder for children.  Your budget is perhaps the first thing you have to think about when looking for a digital video camera for kids.  Apart from this, there are other questions you must ask before purchasing a camera for your kid.

• How old is the child?  Manufacturers list an age range for each digital video camera and you want a camera in the range that fits your child.  Sometimes reviewers provide age ranges different from what the manufacturers suggest.  Try to find out the reason for the difference.
• How careful is the child with his or her stuff?  Some kids are careful with their stuff while others think nothing of throwing them around.  If your kid handles his stuff roughly, look for a video camera that is labeled “kid tough.”
• Is a digital camera that also takes video clips a better choice?  Digital cameras are often better for young children.  However, if your kid has his or her heart set on a video camera, you may have no choice but to get a camcorder.
• How much memory is required?  For very young children the video camera’s built-in memory may be sufficient.  Older kids, however, may need extra memory to make longer videos.

Popular Kids’ Video Cameras

• Polaroid Pixie SD.  Designed for younger kids, this durable kids’ video camera can withstand rough play.  Its basic specifications and features make it perfect for the needs of young children who want to create their own video clips.  The SD memory card slot allows you to add more memory for longer video recording.
• Little Tike My Real Time Video Camera.  This video camera is recommended for children 3 years and older.  It’s simple to use and your kid will have it up and running right out of the box.  The camera comes with 64MB of memory.  It plugs into a TV or computer.
• Children’s Digital Film Studio Movie Creator 3 by Digital Blue.  Young moviemakers aged 8 to 12 years may be too young for a full-fledged video camera but they are also too old for a toy camera for toddlers.  This model from Digital Blue is just the thing for your budding Spielberg.  It can record natural sound and can be connected to a computer with a USB port.

High speed digital video cameras can be used by engineers and researchers as a diagnostic tool to analyze high-speed processes.  The camera records a series of images at very high frame rates and plays it back in slow-motion.  Thus, the viewer can analyze events that happened too fast to see with the unaided eye.

How It Works

High speed video involves recording an event at a high frame rate and playing back the images more slowly.  This slows down the event so you can actually see what is happening.

A standard video camera usually captures 30 frames per second.  In contrast, a high speed video camera can capture motion sequences at the rate of hundreds or thousands of frames per second.  This will allow you to see the details that occur within a high-speed event.

If the video camera captures 500 frames per second, you get nearly 17 images for each image captured by a standard video at 30 fps.  An ultra-high speed video camera that captures 3,000fps will provide 100 images for each frame from a standard video.

A motion sequence captured at 500fps and played back in slow motion at 30fps will produce a smooth, continuous motion.  Thus, high speed video played in slow motion will give you a better understanding of the actual motion.

Advantages

Standard video equipment that can record at a rate of 30 frames per second is too slow to be of much use when analyzing high-speed activities.  Many high-speed activities take place within 100 milliseconds.  Within this time frame, a standard video camera would be able to capture only about 3 frames.  On the other hand, a high speed video camera recording at 1000 fps would be able to record 100 frames of the same event.

When slowed down by a factor of 10, a motion sequence recorded at 30 fps would be viewed at 3 frames per second, resulting in a jerky image.  Only a high speed video camera would be able to display the same event in a meaningful manner.

Uses

High speed video cameras are used in different industries including aerospace program, plastics, car manufacturing, munitions, research facilities, sporting goods, etc.  High-speed video applications are applied in equipment design, research, testing and production.

Cost

These devices can be very expensive.  Professional high speed video cameras can easily cost more than $100,000 and can capture tens of thousands of frames per second.  Casio’s Exilim EX-F1 is designed for the average consumer.  It can record up to 1200fps and costs about $1000.  Expect to pay several thousand dollars for other models.

Product Features

• High definition video recording (1080p at 30 frames per second)
• Integrated software allows quick upload, editing and sharing
• Expandable SD/SDHC card slot; up to 32GB
• Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery
• Brilliant 2.5-inch LCD viewfinder
• View captured videos on HDTV via the unit’s HDMI output; AV cable included

Sleek Design

Improving upon the design of the Zi6, the Kodak Zi8 has a sleek and more modern look.  It measures 2.4 inches x 4.5 inches by 0.9 inches.  It may not be the smallest pocket video camera but it is compact enough and lightweight at 4.8 ounces.

The unit’s shiny, plastic finish is a fingerprint magnet.  It is also susceptible to scratches, so you will want to keep it in a protective case.

High Definition Video Recording

Like most pocket camcorders, the Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera produces the best results if the unit is held as steady as possible while shooting.  A tripod is the best accessory for this.  The Zi8 is one of the first pocket video cameras to come out with electronic image stabilization to help reduce the effect of small hand jitters while shooting.  Image stabilization, however, drains the battery faster, so turn off this feature if using a tripod.

Video image quality is much improved with the Zi8’s 1080p, 30 fps video capture.  It also features 5-MP still image capture.  Like the Zi6 before it, the Zi8 can also record videos in 720p resolution at a rate of 60 fps.  According to Kodak, this mode is best for sports and action.  The device can also record at 720p/30fps, described as “best for sharing on YouTube or Facebook,” and WVGA which is “best for conserving memory card space.”

It’s best, however, to maintain a sense of perspective.  Pocket camcorder may be classified as HD models but they cannot compare with full HD camcorders that are much more expensive and equipped with superior lenses and sensors.

Battery

The Kodak Zi8 ships with a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery instead of standard AA NiMH rechargeable batteries.  While this move helps to keep the chassis slim, you do not have the luxury of being able to swap readily available standard alkaline batteries should you run out of battery on the road.  The Zi8 can be recharged from your computer using the USB cable, but the video camera can also be recharged with an AC adapter (included) connected to a wall outlet.

Memory

Internal memory is limited, so it’s best to have an additional SD or SDHC card.  The Zi8 can accept SDHC cards up to 32GB, allowing you to record as much as you want.  High speed memory cards are recommended especially if you will be recording in HD mode.

Ease of Use

Pocket video cameras like the Kodak Zi8 are designed to be easy to use.  The user interface is more intuitive, with a 4-way rocker control to navigate the menus.  The Zi8 features four speeds for fast-forwarding and rewinding, including frame by frame.

Playback on the 2.5-inch LCD is clear and the sound is quite good.  The built-in microphone is suitable only if you are recording from a few feet away.  Otherwise, it is best to use an external microphone to get a better audio recording.  Unlike many pocket video cameras, the Kodak Zi8 has an external microphone jack.

ArcSoft MediaImpression Softwre

The Zi8’s included software allows you to upload your video clips to YouTube or Facebook.  You can also edit and splice video clips together.  However, it is also possible to use third party software for your video-editing requirements.

Good Points

• Can capture HD video up to 1080p resolution
• Image quality is very good
• Equipped with SD card slot
• Rechargeable battery
• Comes with bundled composite and HDMI cables
• Works well under low light
• Equipped with external microphone jack
• Comes with electronic image stabilization
• Can capture 5-MP still photos
• Has macro focus mode

Weak Points

• Bundled software is not Mac-compatible
• Does not come with extra memory card
• Uses rechargeable Li-ion battery in place of standard AA batteries

What Customers Say

The Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera is a good option for people who want something affordable and simple to use but capable of capturing quality video.  This product fits the bill to a T.  Customers say it’s great for home videos and making no-fuss videos that are easy to upload online.  One of the best features noted by many customers is its portability and ease of use.  Another thing they like is its ability to take still photos.

A number of customers noted some problems with the unit’s internal microphone, which produced a whining noise in the video recording.  It seems that the problem has been resolved with an upgraded firmware.

Currently selling for about $115, the Kodak Zi8 is so good that some people expect too much from it.  As some customers pointed out, the Zi8 delivers so much more than its low price warrants.  Some people forget that it’s an inexpensive, pocket size video camera and expect it to perform like a $3000 camcorder.

If you are looking for an affordable, compact, HD video camera that delivers quality videos, the Kodak Zi8 is it.

If you are looking for something new in the 3^rd generation Flip MinoHD video camera, you may be in for a bit of disappointment.  The design, features, and operation of the MinoHd remains basically the same, with a few improvements.

Clear HD Video

Enhanced video technology is the secret behind the Flip MinoHD’s superb high definition video.  The video camera comes with built-in image stabilization and 720p resolution.  It captures images at the rate of 60 frames per second, double the standard frame rate of most video cameras.

A 2-inch color LCD screen display allows you to view your recordings.  The screen’s anti glare feature ensures that videos can be viewed even under bright lights.  In addition, the device’s AAC audio provides superb audio quality for your video clips.

The MinoHD’s built-in 8GB of memory is more than enough to store your video recordings without the need for additional memory.

Sleek Design

With its black matte front and rounded edges, the Flip MinoHD video camera continues to dazzle with its super sleek design.  It’s about the size of a cell phone, meaning you can easily take it with you everywhere you go.  You can capture all the action with the handy MinoHD.

Easy to Use

Critics may say that the Flip MinoHD offers only a limited range of options for video recording but some people view this as an advantage.  That’s because it means that using the MinoHD is easy as can be.  It’s the equivalent of a point-and-shoot camera.  All you have to do is switch on the device, point it at what you want to film, and press the big red button to start recording.  You can start capturing high definition video in a matter of seconds.

With virtually no settings to fool around with, it’s very hard to do anything wrong.  As some people have noted, the lack of options may be frustrating for some, but others actually find it quite liberating.  You can point and shoot what you want without worrying about setting, modes, and other confusing options.

The Flip MinoHD can only capture video at 720p with a frame rate of 60 frames per second (fps).  This is an improvement on the previous model, which was only able to film at 30 fps.  The result is smoother motion especially in an outdoor environment.

You can watch your HD videos directly on your HDTV, via the HDMI output.  If you want to share your video, simply flip out the device’s USB arm and connect the MinoHD video camera to your computer.  You can launch the pre-loaded FlipShare software to provide a direct pipeline to Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, or MySpace,

Battery Life

An internal Lithium-ion battery provides enough power for 2 hours of use.  The battery can be recharged through the Flip’s built-in USB arm, or using the Flip Video Power Adapter (sold separately).

FlipShare

The preloaded FlipShare software allows you to organize your files into folders.  FlipShare can be used to edit your videos, add music, create video presentations, capture still photos, and share your recordings with friends and family by posting them online to your Twitter or Facebook accounts.

No Stills

There’s one thing many people would like to see in the Flip MinoHD video camera, and that’s the ability to take still photos.  Certainly, many would want to carry just one device to take care of their photo and video needs.  It’s too bad that the MinoHD does not have this feature.

Lack of Additional Storage

The 3^rd generation black Flip MinoHD video camera comes with 8GB of internal memory but does not offer an option to add storage.  The built-in memory is good for about 2 hours worth of video recording.  After that, you will have to connect to a computer and offload your video clips.

Overall Quality

When it comes to performance, the Flip MinoHD compares favorably with the competition.  Images are crisp and detailed, and colors are vibrant if somewhat oversaturated.  With its capture rate of 60 fps, the motion is smoother.  Image stabilization also helps improve the clarity of the videos.  Although it’s an electronic stabilizer, as opposed to a superior optical image stabilizer, it does a good job of eliminating fuzziness in the images.

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Good quality HD video
• Compact, small and light
• FlipShare software allows easy editing and sharing

Cons

• Lacks a dedicated photo mode for still images
• No option for extra storage
• Limited to 720p
• Not much improvement from the previous version

What Customers Say

Judging by the number of positive reviews for the product, it’s safe to say that the Flip MinoHD video camera is a hit.  Many people like the Flip for its ease of use, small size, picture quality, and software.

Some of the drawbacks that customers noted include the lack of additional storage and ability to take still photos.  There is also no way to change the built-in battery.

The Flip MinoHD Video Camera is not for everyone but it is perfectly designed for people who do not want a lot of fuss when making video recordings.  This device is the equivalent of a compact point-and-shoot camera.