In the world of digital video, there's a term called CCD. What does CCD stand for?

CCD stands for Charge Coupled Device. 3CCD is based on 3 layers of image acquisition cells, one for each color component of the white color. Cheaper cameras have 1 CCD. 3CCD, or "3 chip" cameras have more color depth than a 1CCD, or "1 chip".

Hope that helps.

So the higher the CCD the better the camara.

Well you will only go as high as 3 CCD's. There are only three colors that make up white...blue, red, and green. So yeah three is better than one, but that is as high as you can go.

Nathan,

If you're looking for a great 3chip camera, check out Canon. I think the current model is the XL1S (Kevin can you correct me on this if I'm wrong)

I don't own it but have worked with one before and that puppy is...phew...NICE.

Robert Bloor

There are a number of 3CCD cameras on the market right now. Probably the best and most affordable way to get hold of one is with a used Cannon GL1 off eBay. Second would be a new or used GL2, and then a used XL1. If you have the $$$ and the need, a new Canon XL1S or even better a Panasonic DVX100a would be great, but both are far too much camera for the average joe. If you want something that will give you professional results at a good price and in a nice small package, you really can not go wrong with the GL's.

Michael
Starr Video Productions

I love the Canon cameras. My film was shot with an XL-1 and some short scenes used the GL-1.
You get a great picture with these babies.
Greg

I'm going to check those out
Thanks

Robert and Michael both give good advice on the canon cameras. Like Michael said, start with used GL1. Be very careful on ebay if you look at XL1 or XL1s. This product is one of the most widely conned items on ebay. DO NOT buy and XL1 from overseas, you will never see it. Also be sure you are buying more than just the body of and XL1, make sure it comes with a lense.
While a GL1 will do most of what you need, the XL1 does give you more options as far as lenses and has more aftermarket accesories than any other camera.

Going with either will not steer you wrong.

Kevin is right. These cameras are a favorite item of con men on ebay.

You can always tell a con by finding one or more of these conditions...

1) Overseas seller
2) Free Shipping
3) Extremely low "Buy It Now" price.
4) Takes Western Union Payments only. (*Never* do this!)
5) Professional (borrowed) product pictures.
6) Huge list of "extras".
7) You must "contact the seller before bidding".

MS

I'm going to second everything on the con artist part. When I first shopped for the camera I looked for someone who had the lowest price, of course. I found such a dealer in New York via the internet. Well, I called them up and put in a phone order and they said it woud be shipped out in a week. Weeks passed and nothing. I kept calling back and no one had an answer. I finally got ahold of someone and they end up telling me they never even had them in stock and that they might get them in a month. So I try stopping the order and they've already put it in an charged me a few thousand dollars.
Well, it became a big ordeal with my bank gettin involved.
Check around and make sure you're dealing with someone who is legitmate.
Greg

Hi guys,
Maybe you can help me out. I am currently working for Canon-Europe and I am very much interestd in chating with professional camcorder users.
I was wondering if any of you guys can tell me how important is flexibility when choosing a professional camcorder? and why?

Thanks....