Worldwide, there is a strong and growing trend toward large-screen, high-image-quality televisions and high definition (HD) broadcasting. In line with this, manufacturers are transitioning to HD quality in all other types of video equipment too. Panasonic, consistent with its long-time position as a leader in the video field, is now introducing its new Full HD Camcorders including the HDC-SD200.

The SD200 features the Full HD 3MOS sensor, developed by Panasonic based on its proven 3CCD technology. Panasonic's new 3MOS system captures more vibrant, true-to-life colours, greater detail and richer gradation.

The iA function automatically activates several convenient shooting functions. These include Advanced O.I.S., which compensates for hand-shake to eliminate blurring; Face Detection, which adjusts the exposure so faces are captured perfectly; and Intelligent Contrast Control, which helps ensure proper contrast. Also included is the Intelligent Scene Selector, which determines the shooting conditions and automatically selects the scene setting that will provide optimal results. (Face/Scenery/Low light/Spot Light) And AF Tracking keeps the subject in focus even if it moves around to ensure continuously perfect image quality.

The SD200 records on both SD and SDHC Memory Cards. Because SD Memory Cards require no transport mechanism, the SD200 is highly resistant to external impact. This combines with its small size and weight to achieve unmatched mobility.

Image sensor size has been increased from previous 1/6 inch to 1/4.1 inch. 3MOS system with 3 full-HD sensors has total pixel count of 9,150,000 pixels* (3,050,000-pixel x 3). While higher pixel count tends to make noise more noticeable when shooting under dim light conditions, HDC-SD200 solves this problem by using 3 high-sensitivity MOS sensors. It records beautiful images even under dim lighting while maintaining high pixel count, thus making it possible to shoot under minimum luminance of 1.6 lx. * Effective motion image pixels: 6,210,000