Product Description

The 2.2 Megapixel DC20 is Canon's first straight to DVD model. With sophisticated aluminum casing, clean lines and petite profile, the exquisitely designed camcorder records video and still images. It features advanced digital still functionality that rival many digital still cameras, including special scene modes and 9-point AiAF auto focus. In addition, a Print/Share button is included for PC-free printing of photos direct to any PictBridge compatible photo printer, an intoduction of this popular digital-camera technology on a DVD camcorder. Still images can be stored to DVD, around 8,000 images depending on image settings selected, or to miniSD memory card. For fast access, it is possible to shoot first to miniSD card and then transfer images directly to DVD. PictBridge direct print capable - Connect direct to any PictBridge compatible photo printer and push the Print/Share button for quality photo prints without a computer RGB Primary Color Filter eliminates signal conversion to ensure rich and true colour reproduction True split path DIGIC DV processing then renders stills and video according to each format's specific requirements for uncompromised quality USB 2.0 Hi-Speed provides a direct connection to computers for fast transfer of video and still images. You can even use the DC20 as an external DVD burner for making duplicates of home movies Includes DVD Recording software

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #5212 in Camera & Photo
• Brand: Canon
• Model: DC20
• Format: NTSC
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 1.00" h x 1.00" w x 1.00" l, 2.00 pounds
• Display size: 2.5
• Included Software: Yes

Features

• Digital video camera that records straight to 8cm DVD-R/RW media
• 10x optical zoom and Canon's DIGIC DV image processor
• Shoot 2.2 megapixel photos straight to a MiniSD memory card or to DVD
• PictBridge compatibility allows you print stills directly to compatible printers
• Slender design with lightweight body

From the Manufacturer
The DC 20 represents Canon's first offering of DVD camcorder. This model is eye-catching with its distinctive and attractive rounded design and slim, lightweight body. It also boasts superior operability and hand-held comfort, supporting easy accessibility for the 8cm DVD-R/RW media. This camcorder makes possible the high-performance recording of video and still images with the incorporation of a 10x optical zoom lens and Canon's DIGIC DV image processor.

The Canon DC20's slim, lightweight body fits easily in the palm of your hand.

The Photo DV-enabled DC 20 also features an RGB filter and a 2.2-megapixel CCD sensor; the CCD utilizes 1.23-milion pixels when recording video images on tape or DVD, and 2.0-million pixels when recording still images on card media. In addition to featuring a 2-way still-photo function, which supports the capture of images onto either a miniSD card or a DVD, the DC 20 DVD camcorder offers a DVD Random Access function, allowing users to start filming or replay video without having to fast forward or rewind, and a Finalize button, which enables users to easily "close" their video for viewing with standard DVD players or DVD-drive-equipped computers.

This digital camcorder feature outstanding design and operation enhancements, offering a variety of convenient and practical functions, including a backlight button for the LCD monitor, which allows users to view images in bright conditions, and an easy-to-use menu screen. In addition, users can enjoy Direct Print features incorporated into the PictBridge-compatible camcorders in a variety of ways, such as with the Print/Share button, which allows them to easily print still photos with just the touch of a button.

Customer Reviews

Disappointed
I took a chance on a Canon, in part because of Sony's lengthy rap sheet of offenses against its customers, in part because a lot of people really seem to like their products. Up to this point I've used a miniDV Sony purchased in 2000. Unfortunately, my gamble with Canon didn't pay off. Two major problems:

1) There is a noticeable scraping noise every 5 seconds as it engages the DVD drive, which the microphone picks up unfailingly in quiet situations. (Imagine filming your sleeping newborn and noticing during playback a sound much like mice hard at work just off camera.)
2) It was hot to the touch within minutes of being powered up, i.e. before I finished recording sample footage. (I was using the AC adapter, not the battery.)

In case it is relevant, here is what pg. 124 of the instruction manual says:
"Problem: The disc's rotation can be faintly heard. Solution: The disc is activated from time to time. This is not a malfunction.
Problem: Occasionally the operation sound can be heard. Solution: The disc is activated from time to time. This is not a malfunction.
Problem: Pressing the start/stop button will not start recording. Solution: The camcorder has exceeded its operational temperature. Disconnect the compact power adapter and remove the battery pack and let the camcorder cool down before resuming use."

I didn't buy it from Amazon.com (I didn't want to wait for it to ship over the holidays) & I'm not looking forward to paying a restocking fee to return a "not malfunctioning" but basically unusable product.

P.S. The two stars I gave it are for its compact size and cool appearance. Better luck next time on the rest.

Works Great!
I thought I would try this camcorder as I have used Canon products before and have always liked them. The controls seem easy to follow. I spent some time reading the book and playing with the camcorder getting used to how the controls work. Video playback quality was very good. I made some test videos on mini DVD-RW disks and loaded them onto my computer and burned them to regular-sized DVD's. Everything worked great. Overall, I am very pleased with this camcorder.

Canon DC20
Size of camcorder is awesome and best sellng point. It's also pretty to use.
Video is excellent when shooting outside, and inside with plenty of light.
Video is only average when indoor lighting is moderate to fair.
Battery life is OK - about what you find on other camcorders in this category.
Stay away from Memorex disks. Only getting 14 minutes (instead of 20) when shooting in highest mode. Have heard similar complaints from a Sony camcorder owner.