AIPTEK, one of the leading manufacturers of palm sized camcorders, has launched a new high definition palm sized camcorder featuring 3x optical zoom, the Z300 HD-V, available for £199.99. This new offering from AIPTEK provides extensive storage (up to 32GB via SDHC card) and vivid picture quality with colour enhancement.

Key features:

• High definition (720p) AVC HD (1280 x 720 pixels) resolution up to 30 fps
• 3x optical auto focus zoom lens
• Macro mode for detailed 5cm close up video and still capture
• Record up to 2 hrs of high definition video onto a 4GB SD card
(up to 16 hours of high definition video with a 32GB SDHC card)
• Still image capture up to 8 mega-pixel

With the standard for video moving towards high definition, AIPTEK’s HD camcorders will allow home movies captured today to benefit from the display technologies of TV’s designed for the foreseeable future. Footage of “baby’s first steps” or recorded holiday memories can be played back in years to come safe in the knowledge that the picture quality is suitable for future high definition enjoyment.

The 3x optical zoom with user-friendly auto focus is accompanied by a Macro mode to ensure both distant and close-up subjects are captured in equal clarity. With 1280 x 720 pixel HD (720p) resolution at 30 fps and a 5-megapixel CMOS sensor, the AIPTEK Z300 HD-V provides high quality video recording and still images up to 8 mega pixels.

Video recording modes can also be set to record in DVD (720x480) quality and CIF (352x240), with both settings recording at 30 fps in 4:3 aspect ratio. The CIF video mode is designed for web use allowing movies to be uploaded to sites such as YouTube.

With a storage capacity of up to 32GB via SDHC card the Z300 HD-V is capable of storing up to 16 hours of high definition video in .mov (H.264/Quicktime) format or up to 4,000 jpeg images.

The bright 2.4” swivel-mounted TFT LCD display enables easy previewing and playback of both video and still images. AIPTEK’s Z300 HD-V can be connected directly to a TV via component (for HD output) or composite leads for convenient viewing of both video and still images. Wide screen playback is optimised with the Z300 HD-V’s 16:9 mode and video is supported in both NTSC or PAL regions.

In addition to the standard functions for image and video capture such as red eye reduction, flash for still images and self timer, the AIPTEK Z300 HD-V offers 5 different White balance modes, a night mode to enhance video captured in low light and 3 modes (normal, black and white and classic) for stills photography.

All AIPTEK camcorders are designed for ease of use. The units are turned on and off by simply opening and closing the LCD display. Features such as auto focus, fast start up and one touch recording are designed to allow the user to concentrate on capturing the subject matter without having to negotiate numerous settings and options.

In line with AIPTEK’s user friendly philosophy, consideration has been given to the form factor of its camcorders. Measuring just 113 x 70 x 33mm , the Z300 HD-V fits conveniently into a pocket, glove compartment or flight bag enabling its users to carry it with them and capture those unexpected video opportunities that are often missed.

The Z300 HD-V is supplied with a Li-Ion rechargeable battery, remote control, carry pouch and a USB cable for data transfer or battery recharging. For a faster charge an A/C adaptor is provided.

Pricing and availability

The AIPTEK Z300 HD-V will be available from late March 2008 at an SRP of £199.99 (inc vat).