Panasonic PV-GS90

Description: The Panasonic PV-GS90 is a MiniDV-based, ultra-compact camcorder.Compared to other ultra-compact camcorders on the market, it is relatively inexpensive at around $215.

Pros: Has a 42x optical zoom, which is considerably more powerful than some similarly priced camcorders.Provides manual focus adjustment, whereas many camcorders have only auto-focus.This product weighs just 13.8 ounces without battery and media, which is very light.

Cons: None noted, given available product data.

Suitability: Built for capturing the everyday moments, since it easily slips into your jacket or bag.This camera's built-in light will make it easier to film in dim environments.

Value: Given its relatively inexpensive price, this camcorder has great features for the money.Normally, ultra-compact camcorders having comparable resolution tend to cost about $300.

Suggestions: For more help selecting the right digital camcorder, visit CNET Reviews' buying guide.

CNET's Product Briefs are generated by a software tool that combines product specifications with knowledge of our editorial experts. They do not reflect hands-on assessment or labs testing. For more information about how we create Product Briefs, contact us.

• Manufacturer: Panasonic
• Part Number: PV-GS90

• General

• Product Type Camcorder
• Digital Zoom 2000 x
• Optical Sensor Size 1/6"
• Optical Sensor Type CCD
• Min Illumination 2 lux
• Analog Video Format NTSC
• Image Stabilizer Optical (Advanced O.I.S.)
• Digital Scene Transition Black fader, White fader
• Min Shutter Speed 1/30 sec
• Max Shutter Speed 1/8000 sec
• Shooting Modes Digital photo mode
• Shooting Programs Low light, Soft skin, Spotlight, Sports mode, Surf & snow, Portrait mode
• White Balance Custom, Presets, Automatic
• White Balance Presets Indoor, Outdoor
• Exposure Modes Manual, Program, Automatic
• Camera Flash None
• Webcam Capability Yes
• Widescreen Video Capture Yes

• Main Features

• Camcorder Effective Still Resolution 0.38 megapixels
• Color Support Color
• TV Tuner None
• Video Capture MPEG - 320 x 240 - Web camera mode

• Memory / Storage

• Flash Memory None
• Floppy Drive None
• Media Type Mini DV
• Recording Speed LP, SP

• Lens System

• Type Zoom lens - 1.8 mm - 75.6 mm - F/1.9-4.3
• Focal Length 1.8 mm - 75.6 mm
• Lens Aperture F/1.9-4.3
• Optical Zoom 42 x
• Lens system type Zoom lens
• Min focal length 1.8 mm
• Max focal length 75.6 mm
• Auto Focus TTL contrast detection
• Features Built-in lens shield
• Focus Adjustment Manual, Automatic
• Zoom Adjustment Motorized drive

• Additional Features

• DV input Yes
• Low Lux / Night Mode Yes
• Digital Still Camera Function Yes
• Additional Features Date/time stamp, Built-in speaker, USB 2.0 compatibility, Backlight compensation
• Built-in Light Yes
• Time Code Yes
• Software Drivers & Utilities, Panasonic VideoCam Suite

• Viewfinder

• Viewfinder Type LCD
• Viewfinder Diagonal Size 0.33 in
• Viewfinder Resolution 113,578 pixels

• Display

• Type LCD display - TFT active matrix - 2.7 in - Color

• Digital Player (Recorder)

• Type None

• Microphone

• Type Microphone - Built-in
• Microphone Features Zoom, Wind noise reduction

• Connections

• Connector Type 1 x Composite video/audio output, 1 x USB, 1 x IEEE 1394 (FireWire/i.LINK)

• Audio Input

• Audio input type Microphone
• Microphone type Built-in
• Microphone Operation Mode Stereo
• Microphone Technology Electret condenser

• Miscellaneous

• Carrying Case None
• Cables Included A/V cable

• Power

• Power Device Power adapter and battery charger - External

• Battery

• Supported Battery 1 x Li-ion rechargeable battery ( Included )

• Viewfinder / Display

• Display Form Factor Rotating
• Display Format 123,200 pixels
• Viewfinder Color Support Color

• Environmental Parameters

• Min Operating Temperature 32 °F
• Max Operating Temperature 104 °F

• Physical Characteristics

• Width 2.6 in
• Depth 4.7 in
• Height 3.3 in
• Weight 13.8 oz

Panasonic

Manufacturer profile

• Website: http://www.panasonic.com/
• Address: Matsushita Electric Corporation of America, Secaucus, NJ. 07094
• Phone: 800/662-3537