MiniDV

MiniDV is the current standard for home video recording media. MiniDV is a smaller version of DV (Digital Video). MiniDV records the video on a cassette tape using the DV codec. High-definition video (HDV) is also compatible with MiniDV, this allows small High Definition cameras the ability to benefit from the MiniDV format.

MiniDV is used by Canon, Sony and Panasonic still today. MiniDV is currently phasing out as the most popular format due to the introduction of HDD Cameras and SDHC Cameras.

The good part about recording on MiniDV or any other cassette tape is the ability to archive the original recording. Just place the tape in a box or on a shelf it will be there for the next 20 years.

The down side is all Cassette tape mediums require real time capture to your editing computer. Normally you connect the video camera to your computer using firewire (IEEE-1394). The open your editing software and capture it.

MiniDV tapes are commonly available in 30, 60 and 80 minutes.