Here’s another example of a technology issue I never saw coming. Prior to the flood, we were using high level consumer grade video cameras, purchased off the shelf from Circuit City and CompUSA, to record straight to hard drives for editing. They connected by IEEE 1394 cable (“Firewire”) that allows audio and video to be streamed without any degradation of the signal. Circuit City and CompUSA are both out of business now, so when I went to buy a new camera to replace one of the two that were lost in the flood, I learned that no retail stores in Nashville carry video cameras with Firewire jacks any more. The sales rep at Best Buy assured me that a USB cable would do the same.
But after I returned with the new camcorder he sold me, I discovered that AVCHD camcorders cannot stream compressed video in real-time like an HDV camera can. So we ordered an HDV camera from B&H Photo on New York City, with a Firewire jack and external mic jack, and now have a non-returnable AVCHD camcorder I have absolutely no use for. Anybody know of a good charity that shoots lots of video?
Hi Glenn,
From your description, it sounds as if it wouldn’t even make a good security camera. I’m not impressed with the new technology.
I’m a volunteer producer with Athol-Orange Community Television in Athol, Massachusetts. We are a non-profit corporation, if that matters. I produce a weekly program and use the firewire, as you do. I’m not sure if the studio would have a use for the AVCHD camera, but I’ll contact my Executive Director. Thanks for your great example of generosity.
Blessings!
Nancy Mayo-Hume
Athol, Massachusetts
Hey Glen,
If you still have your receipt why don’t you bring it back to Best Buy. After all they gave you the wrong information?