A REVOLUTIONARY camcorder incorporating a rotating 10-centimetre colour liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor has been introduced in Hongkong.
Sharp's $13,000 LCD Camcorder - the ViewCam - has been designed to expand the use and range of video cameras and can be used for recording, monitoring and instant playback.
Instead of peering through a normal viewfinder while filming, the operator uses the 10-cm LCD monitor.
The innovative design allows the monitor to be rotated to any angle, so that high-and low-angle shots can be taken easily. It also offers immediate monitor playback.
The lens can turn 180 degrees, so that an operator can film himself while watching the monitor - either close-up, or by using a remote control.
The camera also offers digital still pictures and strobe filming.
The machine has a compact, autofocus zoom lens, stereo sound and uses two-hour eight-millimetre video cassettes.