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What Sells: Camcorders

A camcorder is a portable electronic recording device capable of recording live-motion video/audio for replay through VCRs, TVs, and, in some models, a personal computer. Technological advances have made older camcorder models obsolete; there’s far less demand for video cameras that record on VHS tapes, and other analog formats like Hi8 and 8mm than in digital video (DV) format.

DV camcorders come in three formats:

• MiniDV, the most common digital format
• Digital8, which is larger than MiniDV and can also play old 8mm and Hi8 tapes
• MicroMV, a very small format developed by Sony that records in MPEG-2 format

Popular features include:

• Color LCDs
• Image stabilization
• Optical zoom (16x or higher)
• Special effects (SFX) capabilities (fades, wipes, titles, time and date stamp)
• Night shot mode
• Still photo mode
• Firewire (also called DV In/Out or IEEE-1394)
• Bluetooth

If you don’t know all the specifications, check the manufacturer’s website; they often have product catalogs online that list detailed specifications.

The Camcorder information website has detailed reviews of many different models, along with historical background and a glossary of technical terms. Visit the website at http://www.camcorderinfo.com/.

Internet Video Magazine also offers reviews, historical articles and a glossary. Visit the website at http://www.internetvideomag.com/.

Look for the following signs of use and damage:

• Scratches and scuffs on the body
• Scratched or cracked lenses and LCDs
• Worn-off lettering
• Missing parts (lens caps, straps, carrying case, manuals, etc.)

It’s best to test a camcorder before listing it. Test the record and playback functions, use zoom and other features, and make sure it’s capturing sound.

Store items in the case designed to protect the item, if provided by the owner. If a case is not available, wrap the items carefully and store them away from children, pets and environmental hazards.

All camcorder components should be kept in a cool, dry place or in a dry box. As with most photography equipment, digital camcorders are sensitive devices that must be carefully maintained during and after use. To keep equipment in tip-top condition, keep the camcorder dry. Camcorders are not waterproof. Store them away from fluctuations in temperature and humidity. If you are transporting a camcorder from a cold to a warm environment, condensation might form on the lens. If water gets into the camera, turn it off and remove the battery, tape and memory card until the moisture evaporates. Let the unit dry for 24-48 hours before turning it on again.

To maintain good video quality, be certain to protect the lens. When not in use make certain the lens cap is on. This not only protects the lens from the elements but also from accidental knocks during storage and shipment. If the lens gets dirty, you can use a blower brush to remove the dust, or a soft cloth. Do not use facial tissue or paper towels as these can scratch the lens. Wipe in circles across the glass surface as this will reduce the risk of scratching the lens.

If the camcorder will not be in use for awhile, remove the battery to prevent battery leaks. The battery should be taken out and recharged occasionally to prevent it from losing its charge permanently. You should also consider taking the digital video tape out of the camcorder and storing it in the camcorder case.

If the camcorder was used for quite some time and there has been deterioration of the images recorded, ask the owner to use a mini digital video cleaner to restore the equipment.

Use the original packaging whenever possible to store and ship an item. If the original box is missing or too damaged to use, wrap each item separately in bubble wrap and cushion with packing peanuts inside a larger box. Always put lens caps on lenses to protect them during shipment.