Camcorder Recommendations

“The Mini-DV Format is the choice for RVP”

Any mini-DV camcorder or digital 8mm with a Firewire port will work with the RVP analysis Systems

To purchase the highly recommended Canon ZR960 Mini DV Camcorders please visit:

http://www.rightviewpro.com/products/cameras/canonzr960

Currently there is a lot of "hype" about the new DVD and DVR (hard drive) camcorders but these camcorders do not produce a pure low compression digital output needed for motion analysis.

It is a new technology, but it is a step backwards when it comes to video editing and video analysis. 

The mini-DV format is still the choice for high-end and commercial camcorders. 

There is a benefit to this hype in that the mini-DV camcorders have been reduced in price and upgraded in features.

The firewire port is what enables the live video feed to your PC for real-time motion capture.

NOTE: The RVP systems require this live feed in order to capture and save the video at 60 fps.

Important Camcorder Features

Optical Zoom

It is the optical zoom that is important for capturing video at a distance.  Usually a 20X optical or zoom is sufficient to film from center field.   Do not be fooled by a high digital zoom number. 

High Shutter Speed

The shutter speed is what enables you to stop the action without a blur.  Some comcorders will have a sport setting but it is better to have the option to manually set the shutter speed depending on the lighting situation.  Shutter speeds of 1/2000 are usually sufficient to stop the blur of the bat or pitching arm.

External Microphone Jack

This is important if you plan on using a wireless mic to create your own lessons and drills.

Remote Control

A remote control comes in handy if you are going to capture video from tape.

Accessible firewire port

Make sure the firewire port is accessible. On some newer Panasonic models the firewire port is hidden behind the battery requiring the user to plug it in when using firewire.

The Camcorders listed below are just suggestions. There are many different brands and qualities of camcorders, but any mini-DV camcorder will work with RVP. Typically the higher end or 3ccd camcorders will give you added features and better color quality

Canon ZR960 Digital Camcorder

mini-DV

48x Optical Zoom

Accessible Firewire Port

Shutter Speeds up to 1/2000

MSRP:  $249.99

JVC GR-D870U Digital Camcorder

mini-DV

35x Optical zoom

Accessible firewire port

Build In Microphone

Manual Shutter Speeds 1/4000

MSRP $199.00

Canon Elura 100 Digital Camcorder

mini-DV

20x Optical zoom

External Microphone Port

Manual Shutter Speed 1/2000

MSRP:  $379.00

PANASONIC PV-GS90

mini-DV

42x Optical Zoom

Manual Shutter Speed 1/8000

MSRP:  $279.99

OTHER RVP RECOMMENDED CAMERAS:

JVC GR-D350

JVC GR-D370

JVC GR-DA30

PANASONIC PV-GS320

PANASONIC PV-GS180

PANASONIC PV-GS39

SAMSUNG SC-D6550

CANON ZR830

CANON ZR850

CANON ZR500

CANON OPTURA 50

CANON ZR400