Panasonic says:
AVCHD
AVCHD is a standard developed jointly by Sony and Panasonic for HD digital video cameras. Using highly efficient codec technologies, it records 1080i high-definition signals onto media such as 8-cm DVD discs and SD/SDHC Memory Cards. AVCHD allows an HD video camera to make long-time recordings of high-density video information onto a DVD disc or SD/SDHC Memory Card.
High-Definition vs. Conventional Images
Are HD (High-definition) images from a video camera really different from images recorded with a conventional video camera? HD images contain 4 times as much information as conventional standard-definition images. For starters, compare the number of scan lines. HDTV has 1,080 horizontal scan lines, SDTV has 576. That translates into much higher resolution and much finer detail. Pictures are so clear and sharp, you can see the textures in an image. Also, HD uses a 16:9 aspect ratio, so the pictures you record have proportions that more closely match the human field of vision. This means that viewing is more natural and comfortable. The HD revolution is well under way, and Panasonic is helping to lead the way with HD video cameras, TVs, and PC applications that can serve as the starting point to a beautiful new digital lifestyle.
Compact and stylish
The compact design makes the HDC-SD5 is Australia's Smallest Full HD Camcorder* and is easy to carry, and with its smart styling you'll want to take it everywhere
Quick start-up - 1.7 sec
In Quick Start mode*, the SD5 begins recording in just 1.7 seconds from the time the LCD is opened. This lets you shoot those sudden shooting opportunities.
*This mode can be selected from the menu.
HDx3CCD Rich, Vivid Colours Bring Out All the Beauty of High Definition
HD is especially good for scenes with rich, vibrant colours. and Panasonic HD video cameras provide the best in colour reproducibility, thanks to use of an advanced 3CCD camera system. This system, in which three separate CCDs capture and process the light information received through the lens, helps reproduce high resolution HD images with magnificent colour.
HDxO.I.S. Suppresses Camera Shake, So Images Appear Sharp, Even on a Big-Screen TV
Imagine taking video shots on a moving boat and then viewing them on a large-screen TV. They're likely to appear blurry from the boat's movement and unsteady hands (4,000 times per second). Panasonic solves this problem with our Advanced O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabiliser). O.I.S. is an optical system, so image quality is in no way degraded. If you plan to view the videos you record on a big screen TV, be sure to get a camera with an O.I.S. system.
* As at 29th August 2007.
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