Product Description

The Canon FS200 Flash Memory camcorder lets you capture stunning video directly to SDHC memory cards, and share memories quickly and easily. Plus, the Canon FS200 features Canons 41x Advanced Zoom to get you closer to the action and DIGIC DV II Image Processor which reproduces images with vivid color and stunning clarity. For lifes bumps and jumps, theres an Image Stabilizer to make your shots rock-steady. Pre-Record lets you capture video 3 seconds before you press the record button, so you will never miss a precious moment. And Video Snapshot Mode allows you to create a series of 4-second video clips with music that are perfect for sharing. Ultra-sleek and lightweight, the Canon FS200 is lightning fast and stylishly designed. So exercise your options. Go for the camcorder that gives you real choice--the Canon FS200. Canon USA 1-year limited warranty included.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #105 in Camera & Photo
• Color: Silver
• Brand: Canon
• Model: 3421B001AA
• Original language: English
• Dimensions: 4.80" h x 2.20" w x 2.30" l, .50 pounds
• Display size: 2.7
• Included Software: Yes

Features

• Record video directly to a removable SDHC memory card
• Genuine Canon lens with 41x Advanced Zoom, 37x optical zoom and 2000x digital zoom
• Digic DV II image processor
• Widescreen HR recording, Dual Shot Mode and Image Stabilizer
• Ultra-sleek, lightweight design allows you to take your camcorder with you anywhere

From the Manufacturer

Canon's technological innovation has for decades delivered optical excellence, advanced image processing and top performance, from photographic and broadcast television cameras to our complete line of consumer camcorders.

We're proud to offer another of our latest, the Canon FS200 Flash Memory camcorder. It's among the most affordable ways to get stunning video in a light, compact and user-friendly package. As employed in advanced electronic products such as laptop computers, MP3 players, PDAs and cell phones, Flash Memory has numerous benefits. Adding to the usefulness of this camcorder is Canon's Quick Charge - which reduces the recharge time for the FS200's battery and Pre-Record gives you a head start on capturing the action.

With the FS200's Canon Exclusive features such as Canon 41x Advanced Zoom and our DIGIC DV II Image Processor, combined with a 680k CCD image sensor, Image Stabilization and a 2.7-inch Widescreen LCD and our new Quick Charge feature- you've got a Flash Memory camcorder that's hard to beat, very affordable and still unmistakably Canon.

Canon FS200 Highlights

Ultra-Sleek, Compact and Lightweight Design

Making this technology even more convenient to use is the FS200's compact size and light weight. Measuring only 2.2 inches wide, 2.3 inches high and 4.8 inches deep, it combines big video storage capacity in a small, easy to carry camcorder weighing only 7.9 ounces.

In addition to the advantage of added recording time, Flash Memory, as found in the FS200, offers more to you as well. You'll appreciate its quick response time, because it doesn't have to wait for moving parts. Press the record button and your FS200 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, when you review your footage, it will start playing more quickly as well.

Another plus is the FS200's lower power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. It's just what you need so you don't miss that pivotal play on the field or the moment when they say "I do."

While we certainly hope you keep your FS200 securely in your hand while shooting, if it happens to slip, or you accidentally knock it against something, you'll be happy to know that Flash Memory makes your camcorder more shock resistant than other recording storage systems. It also minimizes the chance of data loss due to damage to your recording media or the moving parts found in other camcorders.

A Class 2 or higher card is recommended. Also, movie recording requires cards with 128MB of memory or more. Cards made by Toshiba, SanDisk or Matsushita are recommended. No particular restrictions apply for still images.

Canon Exclusive: Genuine 41x Advanced Zoom

The Genuine Canon 41x Advanced Zoom on the FS200 is just the kind of exclusive Canon feature you've come to expect from the leader in imaging and optics. Advanced Zoom extends the power of your zoom and is the longest zoom Canon has ever offered. In both wide angle and telephoto positions, there is virtually no loss in image quality throughout the range. How is this accomplished? With a Genuine Canon lens which remains in constant motion through the entire extended zoom range aided by our proprietary DIGIC DV II image processor.

41x Advanced Zoom in action

There's practically no loss in image quality through an extraordinary range of zoom, so you'll get good, clear shots as you follow that sailboat race around the harbor or catch every step of that toddler scrambling across the lawn.

The FS200 offers you more flexibility to get just the shot you need by giving you the choice of Advanced Zoom in default mode or you can select a 37x Optical Zoom or 2000x Digital Zoom. You will always be able to get the shot you need, no matter how close or far away and always with the quality you expect from Canon.

Canon Exclusive: DIGIC DV II Image Processor

The Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor is the next generation of Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV signal processing technology. DIGIC DV II ensures optimal image quality. It also ensures optimal image quality for still images, even though video and still images have different color requirements. DIGIC DV II is just another one of Canon's advanced technologies that make the FS200 an exceptional performer.

Thanks to Canon DIGIC DV II image processing, the FS200 produces video with improved color reproduction - especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also uses a hybrid noise reduction system that employs two types of noise reduction - for video images that are crystal clear. Regardless of your subject or setting, there's no worry about capturing them more closely to the way they appear in front of you.

Plus, the Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor features improved continuous shooting of digital photographs with the FS200. You can shoot five 1024 x 768 still images per second, and enjoy faster processing of your images to the FS200's memory card. It also helps lower power consumption for longer battery life.

Superb Shooting Control - Video Snapshot, Quick Start, Quick Charge, Dual Shot and More

Video Snapshot Mode The Video Snapshot Mode of the FS200 will let you shoot short movie clips in the same way you've shot snapshots with your still camera. Simply capture a series of 4-second video clips, blend in one of 10 supplied music tracks, or your favorite background music, and create an entertaining movie that will hold everyone's attention. It's the perfect way to document your vacation or a family milestone.

Quick Start Never miss a quickly unfolding shot again. When the FS200 is in Camera Mode and the LCD panel is closed, it is placed in standby mode. When the action starts, open the LCD panel and you'll begin recording in less than one second. You'll also help extend your battery life as compared to leaving the camcorder in regular recording mode.

Dual Shot Dual Shot Mode makes capturing video and photos faster and easier than ever. Both types of images can be captured in the same mode - without requiring any switching. This ensures you will be ready to capture the action when it starts helping you to avoid the chance of a missed shot.

Widescreen HR Recording The FS200 records true High Resolution Widescreen for picture perfect video. Canon's Widescreen HR Mode uses the entire width of the image sensor, capturing true 16:9 widescreen. What difference does it make? It's simple. The more pixels captured, the better your final image quality is.

Quick Charge When you've got a lot to shoot but not a lot of time to recharge your batteries, the Quick Charge feature comes to the rescue. In 20 minutes, you can charge up to approximately 60 minutes of recording time! It's ultra-fast battery charging when you need it most.

Image Stabilizer Canon's industry-leading image stabilization will give your video a more professional look, with rock-steady shots, even when you're shooting at maximum telephoto range.

Pre-record The Pre-record feature places your FS200 in a stand-by "pre-roll" mode. With this feature the camcorder continuously records three seconds of video to memory before you even press the record button. When you start recording, the additional video is recorded too, It will be easier than ever to capture the moment when the bat hits the ball at the start of that home run.

Pre-record mode

Joystick Control The Joystick makes using the camcorder easier than ever. Extra buttons have been eliminated, allowing you to access many functions from one convenient place. The Joystick lets you control Play, Stop, Fast Forward, and Rewind functions during playback. It also controls exposure lock and exposure compensation during recording.

Variable Zoom Speed Control Another sure sign of amateur video is the unsteady zoom shot. But with the FS200's zoom control, you simply select one of three pre-set zoom speeds for smooth, steady, professional-looking zooms.

Level and Grid Markers With the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camera level for more professional-looking video. Line up any horizontal lines in your shot - such as the horizon - to the marker and you can be sure your camcorder is level.

The FS200's Grid Marker feature lets you compose your shot accurately, according to the grid in your viewfinder. You can even choose from two different colors for the grid. This ensures that you see the grid, no matter what the background color of your shot is. Program AE Mode

Program AE For the best exposure for various situations, the FS200's Program AE mode will automatically adjust the settings to compensate for the conditions and subject. Choose from Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Spotlight and Fireworks. You won't have to guess if you're capturing all the action just the way you want it because the FS200 will do it for you.

Low Light Performance Some of the most magical shots are taken at the end of the day or long after the sun has set. You won't miss any of them, thanks to the FS200's built-in video light. The light lets you shoot subjects in color in low light up to 4.9 feet away. So, whether it's a shot of a sleeping baby, or a dramatic skyline at night, the FS200 captures all the moments you want to record.

DVD Burner Compatible Plays on regular commercial DVD players. You can also easily burn DVDs of the video shot with your FS200 as it is compatible with Canon's DW-100 DVD Burner. A one-cable connection is all it takes to send the files across and with the click of a few buttons; your videos will be burned to a disc ready to play in a compatible DVD player.

Stunning Digital Photography

The FS200 has many advanced photo features which make it a camera that rivals other state-of-the-art digital cameras. You get the best of both video and photos.

Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV II Image Processor features improved continuous shooting of digital photographs with the FS200. You can shoot five 1024 x 768 still images per second, and enjoy faster processing of your images a memory card inserted into the FS200.

Focus Features Auto Intelligent Auto Focus (AiAF) ensures sharp images and gives creative flexibility. Even when your subject isn't in the center of the frame, the FS200's 9-point AiAF will automatically select from 9 metering frames on the screen to help bring images into sharp focus.

Auto Exposure Modes Like any good digital still camera, the FS200 lets you choose from a range of exposure modes. Auto mode automatically sets the exposure, letting you concentrate on your subject. TV (shutter priority) mode lets you select the shutter speed for sharp, action shots. In P (program) mode, the camcorder adjusts camera settings automatically.

Program AE Mode Your life happens everywhere, so the FS200 gives you settings that automatically result in the best exposure settings for different conditions and different subjects.

Portrait mode ensures shallow depth of field for a pleasing background to your shots of friends and family. Sports mode stops the action with faster shutter speeds. Night mode is designed to give you great shots after the sun goes down. Snow and Beach modes compensate for bright surroundings and give you the proper exposure on your subject. Sunset mode results in vibrant, well-exposed colors for one of the toughest subjects to capture. Use Spotlight mode when your child is on stage and in the spotlight - literally - and you want to make sure the exposure is right for them. And, Fireworks mode records brilliant images of another tough subject: the holiday fireworks display.

Level and Grid Markers With the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camera level for more professional-looking photographs. Line up any horizontal lines in your shot - such as the horizon - to the marker and you can be sure your camcorder is level.

The FS200's Grid Marker feature lets you compose your shot accurately, according to the grid in your viewfinder. You can even choose from two different colors for the grid. This ensures that you see the grid, no matter what the background color of your shot is.

Print/Share Print/Share turns your FS200 into a photo lab in the palm of your hand. Simply connect your camcorder directly to select Canon printers or any PictBridge-compatible printer with the supplied USB cable. Then, with a simple touch of the Print/Share button, print directly from your FS200 without going through a computer.

Print/Share also makes it easy to transfer your still images to your computer. Simply connect your FS200 and your computer, press the Print/Share button and your photos are downloaded to your computer.

SDHC Memory Card The FS200 makes it easy to store digital photos onto an SDHC Memory Card.

DVD Burner Compatible You can also easily burn DVDs of your still photos taken with your FS200 as it is compatible with Canon's DW-100 DVD Burner. A one-cable connection is all it takes to send the files across and with the click of a few buttons; your photos are ready to share with all.

2.7-inch Widescreen LCD

The 2.7-inch Widescreen LCD on the FS200 lets you see more of what your camcorder is recording. There's no need to imagine what your final image will look like on your widescreen television because it's squeezed into a small space while you're shooting. What you see will be what you get.

Additional Features

• The Intelligent Lithium-ion battery which powers the FS200 is a major, and useful, advance. It not only more accurately tracks remaining battery life, it also gives a display in minutes remaining. It will allow you to better plan your shooting, so you won't be caught out with a battery that suddenly goes from "half" to "empty."
• The Built-in Electronic Lens Cover means you never have to go looking for your lens cover again. Turn your camcorder on and the lens cover automatically opens. Turn it off, and the cover closes.
• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Terminal for ultra-fast transfer of movies and photos.
• With the FS200's Microphone and Headphone Terminals you can attach an external microphone or headphones to more accurately record or monitor audio from a specific source, or to review audio in playback.
• The FS200 camcorder is bundled with a powerful software suite from Pixela. ImageMixer 3SE* lets you play back your recorded video on your computer, as well as edit your footage and burn it to a DVD for sharing with friends, family and watching on your TV. And to complement the FS200's Video Snapshot feature, a music CD containing royalty-free soundtracks is also provided.

• FS200 Camcorder
• Battery Pack BP-808
• Compact Power Adapter CA-570
• Stereo Video Cable STV-250N
• USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
• Wrist Strap
• Digital Video Solution Disk
• Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software
• Music CD

Customer Reviews

a real review for real people
This review is for people who have common sense about this technology and have done even a TAD bit of research before buying. I have been in the video/film/animation industry for 15 years and have used tons of equipment for everything from multimillion dollar productions, to rogue gorilla documentaries. This camera is for people who want to flip open something small and compact, shoot some video for memories and thas that. Pretty much ALL camcorders under 800 dollars are going to shoot interlaced video, and this one does as well. it has complete manual overide for focus and exposure. I read a review where a lady was complaining about filming a recital and the camera was going in and out of focus. No problem, set it to manual and problem fixed. There is no more .MOD file problems.. all files are read as .mpeg files now (you can download the newest software from the website) **EDIT** its come to my attention that some people are still getting the .MOD files extension. I am running windows XP service pack 3 on a PC and the program it installed is pixela imagemixer 3 version 4 and it automatically shows up as .mpeg 4 files.. so i dont know whats up and why that works for me, as i did nothing special or extra for that to happen..

now onto quality.

It is acceptable. Low light gives you grainy pictures and some ghosting. You will get this on pretty much ALL camcorders in this class. do NOT expect that if you spend another 100 dollars you will get a difference. If you want to see a noticable difference you will need to step up to the 800-1200 dollar range. Im sorry but thats just the facts. Another thing to be on the lookout for is called a frame buffer. Which EVERY camcorder over 100 dollars Should have.. you know, that telltale sign in video where when the camera moves back and forth the picture starts "waving like a flag in the wind".. we're good with that. The zoom on this camera is CRAZY good.. in general, optical zoom is good, digital zoom is bad.. this cameras optical zoom rivals most everything out there.. things i dont like. When you play your recorded videos on the camcorder, it will just play the next file without stopping, in one long stream.. this is cool, but i dont like not having the option to view one at a time. you HAVE to plug it in to the wall power when you transfer files to the computer. i dont like the record button on the end of the barrel.. the way i ALWAYS end up holding this camera is like how you hold a glass of water if you were pouring it out.. with my thumb on the top of the barrell.. i NEVER hold it "properly" (like a glass of water that im drinking).. its so tiny that holding it like that is almost cumbersome and unecessary.. In short i LOVE this thing for the convenience.. on standby it will boot up in 2 seconds.. AWESOME.. no tape, the small size, good battery life, relatively big LCD screen,external mic input and headphone all good.. needing a plug for computer connection, bad low light performance, bad management of video playback not so good.. all in all i REALLY like it...

if you want the convenience of a TINY camcorder available at a moments notice, recording to a card instead of tape, a regular def video (most everything i shoot is for web or regular DVD which is regular def anyway) and a price thats not bad. this is for you

Now, if you want a video camera for capturing high def home videos for permanent memories to keep forever and possibly burn to blu-ray, seriously, buy a high def, 3ccd progressive scan camcorder. Expect to pay around 1000+ dollars, but thats what you get. i dont understand the complaints that this is whats expected from this camcorder. You cant drive a civic around complaining it cant go from 0 to 60 in 2 seconds..

Camera OK, the MOD file format hard to work with!
I have several Canon digital cameras, so when I decided to purchase a camcorder I immediately went to Canon. I waited a month for this new version. I wanted a small camcorder--and this is definitely small.

I am a bit disappointed in the quality of the videos. For movies taken in full light I can hardly tell the difference between these movies and the ones I take with my Canon PowerShot A570 IS digital camera! Although, the sound is definitely better with the camcorder. For movies in dim light (I filmed my son's Jazz concert), there was a huge difference so I decided to keep the camera.

I would agree with the previous reviewer in that the control buttons on the LCD screen are practically useless in dark settings. I couldn't see them during the concert I filmed.

I also have a bit of trouble holding the camera because it is so small. I removed the "grip belt" strap it came with because I could not get it to fit securely and still allow me to adjust the buttons at the same time. It felt like the camera was going to slide off my hand. I now use the extra wrist strap that comes with the camera and while it doesn't look as "cool", I'm not worried about dropping the camera.

My biggest hassel has been that the camera saves the movie files as MOD files which are a pain to work with! They will not import into most video editing programs (including Adobe Premiere Elements!), and the widescreen videos will not play correctly in Windows Media Player unless you convert the file.

The camera comes with a software program to transfer, edit, and view the movies--but it is awkward to use and even with the conversion I still could not get the movies to import into Camtasia Studio 6, which is the program I use the most. So, after two days of internet searching this is what I found that works for me.

1. I use a card reader to transfer the movie files onto my computer. This is much easier for me than using the program that comes with the camera.

2. I downloaded a free copy of SDCopy, and I use it to convert the MOD files to mpeg files. If I check the "widescreen" box on the converting window the converted movies will play widescreen in Windows Media Player.

3. The converted movies will import into Adobe Premiere, but they will not import into Camtasia Studio 6 (which is my goal). I can use Adobe Premiere to convert the files to avi files, but the process takes too long for me so I found a better and easier way.

4. I purchased a MOD converter. The one I decided on was Daniusoft Mod Converter for $29. It works well. With a MOD converter, I can convert the MOD files to a bunch of other types that will import into other programs as well as play on other devices such as an ipod. I use it to convert the files I converted with SDCopy into .avi files that will import into Camtasia.

Bottom line: Do your research and decide if this is for you. The FS100 received so many good reviews that I can't help but wonder if the video quality of that camera is better than this one. Perhaps someone will post information that answers that question.

Good camera for the price
I bought this camera a couple of weeks ago and it is small. Smaller than I expected, but that is not a bad thing, it is easy to carry around in a vest pocket or coat pocket. I didn't download or use any of the software provided with the camera, I have Sony Vegas on my computer. One thing that I do recommend is downloading the free SDCOPY software you can find on the net. Check the widescreen box and it will convert your .MOD files to mpg files lightning quick. Now you should be able to work with them in just about any editing software. Use a card reader for the SD card instead of connecting the camera to the computer, makes life easier. I use a cheap one that came with my SD cards.

Zoom is good, and a steady hand or tripod is highly recommended for longer shots. Quick to start up, the auto lens cover is great, battery life also great.

I really see no problems with this great little camera, other than low light filming could be better, but not many of these cameras are great in low light.