SECAUCUS, N.J., July 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic today
introduced the Panasonic HM-TA1, a new Full High Definition (HD),
1920 x 1080 pixels-capable mobile video camera with pocket-sized
dimensions for ultimate portability and ideal for on-the-go
shooting opportunities. With an easy-to-use design intended for
intuitive operation, the TA1 features an integrated USB terminal
and software that allows for easy PC connection and uploading
videos to online sharing sites such as YouTube™ and Facebook®. The
TA1 also supports the Apple© iFrame video format (960 x 540/30p),
which is optimal for Mac® users to import quickly and maintain
small file sizes. When using iMovie®, the iFrame video data
in the video camera is the same format as the one that is used to
edit.
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Beyond its HD video-capturing capabilities, the TA1 can also
double as a Web camera and microphone, working with IP-based video
chat programs, such as Skype*, by simply connecting the video
camera to a computer via an included USB port. Thanks to integrated
software, using the TA1 with video chatting services is seamless –
an easy way to enjoy face-to-face communication with long-distance
family or friends.
"The new Panasonic TA1 is small enough to fit in the palm of
your hand, extremely easy and intuitive to use, and yet it is still
powerful enough to shoot full-HD video and high-quality photos,"
said Chris Rice, Senior Product
Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "Designed
to integrate easily with popular online social networks to quickly
share videos, the TA1 can also be used as a Web camera, allowing
users to make video chat calls – making this extremely portable
video camera a truly versatile gadget."
Measuring a mere 2.09 inch (w) x 0.70 inch (d) x 4.09 inch (h),
and weighing just 0.25lb (with battery and SD card), the Panasonic
TA1 is a compact and lightweight HD mobile video camera that
records high-quality videos and photos. Complete with a wrist
strap, making it ideal for carrying, the TA1 is perfect for
shooting spontaneous videos and snapping photos. With an
easy-to-use design, the TA1's single-function buttons include:
Power, Play, Record, Still Photo, LED Light (on/off) and Delete.
In addition, there is a center keypad for selecting
additional settings.
The Panasonic TA1 can record still photos with up to eight
Megapixels. This high-resolution capability helps ensure
clear, vivid images with sharp details and all data records to an
SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card. The TA1 can also cut still images out of
a video clip during editing. There is no need to connect any other
device or to load the video into a PC for editing. To cut out and
save a still image, simply press the Still Picture button when the
desired image appears on the TA1's 2.0" LCD monitor. A unique
feature for mobile video cameras, the Panasonic TA1 includes a
built-in LED light**, which comes in handy when shooting in
dimly-lit situations, such as indoors.
The TA1 has an integrated USB terminal with pre-loaded software
that allows recorded video clips and still images to be easily
loaded into a PC, edited, and then uploaded to popular sharing
websites. When the TA1 is connected to the PC's USB slot, its
built-in software, HD Writer PE 1.0, automatically launches,
enabling one-touch loading of data into the PC for editing.
The TA1 records MPEG-4 AVC file format (MP4), which offers
excellent PC compatibility and is ideal for viewing clear,
high-resolution images on a PC or distributing them over a
network.
Other features of the Panasonic HM-TA1 include:
- E.I.S. (Electrical Image Stabilization) to minimize hand-shake
issues.
- Digital zoom up to 4x, helping to expand the user's shooting
range.
- Color effects enabling creative shooting, including Sepia,
Monochrome, and Soft Skin. Sepia mode adds warmth to the captured
images; Soft Skin produces realistic skin tones; and Monochrome
mode transforms the appearance to create a cool ambience.
- USB-capable charging by connected the TA1's USB cord to a
PC***, eliminating the need to carry a separate cord or
charger.
The Panasonic HM-TA1 will be available in three different color
options, purple, dark grey and red in August
2010 with a suggested retail price of $169.95.
*The use of a high-performance CPU is recommended for video
conferencing with high-quality images.
** The LED light does not go on when operating as a Web
camera.
*** Do not use any USB extension cord other than the supplied
one (Operation is not guaranteed with any other USB extension
cord.).
Design and specifications are subject to change without
notice.
YouTube is a trademark of Google Inc.
Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.
Mac, iMovie, iFrame are trademarks of Apple Inc.
About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J.,
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), is a Division of
Panasonic Corporation of North
America, the principal North American subsidiary of
Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S.
marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic
is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's
natural resources and protect our environment through the company's
Eco Ideas programs. Company information for journalists is
available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.
SOURCE Panasonic