The camera's internal software, called RCA Memory Manager, only works on Windows 2000/XP or later-based computers. Sorry, Mac OS X users. Flip out the USB connector, plug it into the USB port--a viewer automatically pops up. The interface may not look superslick but it is straightforward and most users will have no problem figuring it out without opening a manual. You can choose to view your videos, edit, or share them. As for editing, you can do basic edits to your clips, setting start and end points, and string several clips together to make a "movie," which can then be shared or stored on your computer. Clips or movies saved to your computer can also be burned to DVD via your PC.
If you click on the Share tab, you can choose among uploading your video to YouTube, Box.net (another online video and photo sharing service), or e-mailing it to someone. If you decide to e-mail a clip, the program automatically compresses the video to reduce the file size. Recipients simply click on the attachment and play it back using Windows Media Player. It's worth noting that previously, it could take a minute or more to compress even a short 30-second clip. However, the process is much quicker now.
To upload your videos to YouTube or Box.net, you have to first sign up for a free account with a username and password. As part of the upload process, your video file is compressed even further compared to the file created for an e-mail attachment, so the quality isn't quite as good. However, viewing a streamed file online in a viewing box is arguably more convenient than opening a large e-mail attachment.
We weren't particularly impressed with the video quality of the Small Wonder EZ205 or EZ200; the Traveler EZ210 performed better. The step-down models had trouble with brightly lit outdoor scenes, but the EZ210 was able to compensate and adjust the lighting for a more correct exposure. Low-light performance was also decent and the video image--for a low-resolution (640 x 480) video anyway--appeared adequately sharp in most conditions.
In the end, the Traveler EZ210's fortune rises and falls with its design. We're tempted to write it off as a gaffe, but there are some redeeming qualities here, especially for older folks with shaky eyesight who appreciate a larger LCD, larger buttons, and a more rugged design, so you don't have to worry about the camcorder slipping out of your hands. We're not sure Audiovox plans to market this one toward senior citizens. But that's what we'd do.
What You'll Pay
- Set Price Alert
