Panasonic HDC-SD5 High Definiton SD Card Camcorder - Silver

The Panasonic HDC-SD5 debuts as the world's smallest and lightest 3CCD High Definition video camera*, even smaller than its predecessor model, the HDC- SD1. Recording direct to SDHC Memory Cards and with no moving parts in the recording section, the compact camcorder is exceptionally resistant to impact and tough conditions. The SD5 also introduces a new USB Host function that significantly improves data storage and playback ease. Using a DVD burner VW-BN1 (released at the same time), you can copy or play back video recordings in the original AVCHD format, and enjoy easy high-definition viewing on a large-screen TV.

Both the HDC-SD5 and HDC-SX5 can record full-HD video with 1920 x 1080 pixels plus feature Panasonic's original 3CCD camera system and Advanced O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), which let users record clear, beautiful, blur-free images with vibrant colours and when viewed on a high-quality big-screen TV are simply breathtaking in quality.

Main Features

Leica Dicomar Lens

Photographers around the world know Leica Camera AG as a maker of superb cameras and lenses. This company's advanced optical technology has been fused with Panasonic's leading-edge digital technology to create the Leica Dicomar lens.

Intelligent Contrast Control

This intelligent new function continually measures the ambient light intensity and adjusts the contrast as it changes. Providing control over a wider range of lighting conditions than previous functions, Intelligent Contrast Control helps prevent a washed-out look in bright parts of an image and black-outs in shadowy part. You capture images with natural nuances and contrast. Even when you're shooting toward the light source, Intelligent Contrast Control lets you capture true-to-life pictures with outstanding depth.

Wide Viewing Angle LCD Monitor

The SD5 and SX5 incorporate a new LCD that has 300,000 pixels and a wide 170-degree viewing angle both vertically and horizontally. The wider viewing angle is a big advantage in high-angle and low-angle shooting. It's a big advantage in playback too, allowing several people at the same time to enjoy viewing the video clip you just recorded.

Power LCD Extra

The brightness of the LCD can be set to either of two levels to match the ambient light condition. At the brighter setting, the LCD provides clear, easy viewing even when you're shooting outdoors on a sunny day.

VIERA Link

The SD5 and SX5 are compatible with Panasonic's VIERA Link. Connect the SD5 to a VIERA TV via an HDMI cable, and you can operate the camcorder using the TV remote control and following on-screen prompts. This adds extra ease and convenience to the fun of viewing the full-HD video you record.

Direct Viewing with SD Card Slot

The SDHC/SD Memory Card can simply be taken from the SD5 and slipped into the card slot of a Panasonic VIERA PZ700 to view full-HD images recorded in the AVCHD format.

*JPEG format still images can be viewed with other SD card slot-equipped VIERA models.

Archiving

USB Host Function

Most people use their camcorders for three main purposes: to shoot, play back, and archive video recordings. They want each of these to be as easy as possible. Panasonic has developed new features and functions that respond to these needs. In the past, copying video recordings from an SDHC/SD Memory Card to a DVD disc was a two-step process that involved transferring the data to a PC, then copying from PC to disc. The SD5 does away with all that, thanks to a USB Host function that makes it easy to play back or store your video recordings on DVD discs. Connect the SD5 via USB cable to a DVD burner VW-BN1, and pressing a single button is all it takes to copy recorded video clips from an SDHC/SD memory card to a DVD disc in the original AVCHD format. The copied DVD can be played by the DVD burner, so all you have to do to view exciting, large-screen images in HD quality is have the DVD burner connected to the SD5, and then connect the SD5 to an HDTV.