• Records and plays back both high-definition (1080i resolution) and standard-definition video on MiniDV.
• 2.1-megapixel ClearVid CMOS image sensor; 1.43K effective.
• Variable-speed Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 10x optical zoom lens; digital zoom to 80x.
• 2.7-inch widescreen touch-panel LCD.
• Super Steady image stabilization.

Product Description ------------------- CL) U) Sony HDR-HC3 4MP High-Definition Handycam MiniDV Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom From the Manufacturer --------------------- The HDR-HC3 is everything you've come to expect from the industry's smallest and lightest camcorder as of February 1, 2006, plus a few extras. Instantly switch back and forth between HD and SD modes, capture 4.0-megapixel still images, and enjoy unprecedented detail and color reproduction with the ClearVid CMOS sensor. The HC3's 1/3" ClearVid CMOS sensor provides stunning detail and clarity for both video and still images. 2.1-Megapixel (Gross) ClearVid CMOS Sensor 1/3" ClearVid CMOS sensor provides stunning detail and clarity with exceptional video (1080 lines of resolution in HD Mode or 530 lines of horizontal resolution in SD Mode) and still-image performance (4.0 megapixels). Unlike traditional CCD imagers, CMOS sensors require less power, providing better battery performance. HDV Format From the innovators in camcorder technology, Sony's HDR-HC3 camcorder is the industry's smallest and lightest HDV1080i consumer-level camcorder and player (as of February 1, 2006). Now you can conveniently record all your memories in true high-definition video. Switchable HDV/DV Format The HDR-HC3 is capable of and playing back both High Definition (HD) and Standard Definition (SD) video recorded on a standard MiniDV cassette. Real-Time HD Codec Engine Sony developed a Real Time MPEG Encode/Decode system with reduced energy consumption and compact size to fit inside a personal camcorder. This engine provides efficient MPEG2 compression, and and playback of clear HD images at the same bit rate of the DV format, so that High Definition video can be recorded on the same MiniDV cassettes as are used for SD . 10x Optical/80x Digital Zoom The optical zoom helps to bring the action close up from far away. In addition, the Digital Zoom Interpolation means that extreme digital zooming is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zoom. A professional-quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens reduces glare and flare and increases color saturation. Professional-Quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Lens Carl Zeiss lenses have an advanced optical multi-layer coating that offers less glare and flare with increased contrast. This results in vivid image brilliance, true-to-life color saturation, and perfect renditions of subtle tones. The additional T* coating on the lens further reduces unwanted glare and flare. A 2.7-inch vari-angle touch-panel LCD makes framing and filming a snap. 2.7-Inch Wide (16:9) Hybrid Touch Panel Clear Photo LCD plus Display (211K Pixels) The 2.7-inch wide (16:9) LCD screen provides excellent viewing clarity with imporoved resolution. The 211K pixel LCD screen rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles providing sharp, detailed images for monitoring or playback, and the widescreen format makes shooting in 16:9 mode and composing s even easier. Digital Still Memory Mode with Memory Stick Duo Media Capture still images up to 2304 x 1728 resolution directly onto Memory Stick Duo Media for easy trasfer to PCs for e-mailing, printing, or sharing with other compatible Memory Stick devices. Dual Record While video in high definition, you have the ability to capture a 2.3-megapixel still image directly to Memory Stick Duo media. Assignable Dial Built into the lens body of the camera, the assignable dial can be used not only for focus or exposure, but may also be customized by the user to control Auto Exposure (AE) Shift, Exposure, Focus, and White Balance (WB) Shift. In playback mode it allows you to control the volume. Super Steady Image Stabilization System Picture stabilization system that uses motion sensors to detect and compensate for camera "shake" without compromising picture quality like some other digital stabilization systems. Cinematic Mode Perfect for creating your own movie masterpieces, the HDR-HC3 Cinematic mode lends 24-frame film-like effect to your s. i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394) A high speed bi-directional digital video-audio communication between two compatible devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, including camcorders, digital VCRs, and PCs. Tele Macro Function Useful for shooting close up s, but without having the camcorder casting a shadow on the subject. Images in the Tele Macro Mode will have the subject properly focused with the background unfocused so that the subject stands out. Active Interface Shoe Provides a location directly on the camcorder on which to add optional accessories while providing power and two-way communication to those accessories. Built-In Intelligent Flash For added clarity and detail when taking pictures in low-light situations, the built-in flash improves pictures and reduces shadows.