The Panasonic HM-TA1 HD Camcorder

The Panasonic HM-TA1 was released this month (august 2010). This is a cheap-end consumer level HD camcorder. The TA1 is a first from Panasonic to be pocket size, ultra-thin, and also double as a web camera. It's designed to have function compatibility with skype and iframe with easy upload to common Internet websites.

The camera connects to a computer through a USB 2.0 cord. It also comes with a set of AV cables (composite with mono sound) to connect to a TV. HD Writer PE 1.0 is built into its design, which loads upon connection to a computer.

It can continuously record for twenty-nine minutes and fifty-nine seconds. (One wonders where that last second goes.) However, more time will fit on the same memory chip before having to upload to a computer. Also, if recording in the iFrame format, continuous recording time is less (around twenty minutes).

The HM-TA1 is the grade of camera good for people in search of something cheap with the desire of taking video footage of outings or family. Operation of the device is intentionally made as simple as possible for almost no learning curve. Amazon offers the TA-1 in red, dark grey, and purple. Panasonic's website shows a white, blue and black version.

Price
$169.95
This price is from Amazon.com. The camera is still listed on backorder on the Panasonic website.

In the Box
Camera, USB 2.0 extension cord, AV cable, hand-strap, manual

The Pros
The video quality is awesome for the price. There are five recording modes: MP4, iFrame, 1920x1080, 1280x720, 640x480.

It can take still pictures with up to 8 megapixels which is good for a camcorder.

A little rare on small, mobile camcorders is a built-in LED light. Although, this light will not work when using the web cam function.

The Cons
No external microphone or headphone jack.

The battery, as listed on the Panasonic website, is $74.95. While a second battery isn't strictly a necessity, it's always handy. $74 dollars is a bit costly when the camera itself was only $169.

Most controls are automatic, although that's not a surprise for such a cheap camcorder. Still, anyone who's shot a scene where their friends appear slightly green can appreciate the ability to override automatic white balance.

The lens is unprotected-no barn doors or anything of the sort close over it when it's off. Hence, it's vulnerable to whatever happens to fall on or against it.

Conclusion
For the price and what it is designed to do, it's a good buy.