JVC INTRODUCES THE WORLD'S MOST COMPACT MULTIMEDIA CAMCORDER SYSTEM WITH VIDEO CAPTURE. THE GR-DVM1D FEATURES THE WORLD'S FIRST POLYCRYSTALLINE SILICON COLOR LCD MONITOR CAPABLE OF 400-LINE RESOLUTION.

Las Vegas, NV, January 9, 1997... JVC is proud to announce the GR-DVM1D multimedia camcorder system, comprising the GR-DVM1D digital camcorder- the latest addition to the CyberCam Series, featuring the world's first high-quality 2.5" polycrystalline silicon TFT active matrix monitor - and the GV-DS1 digital docking station with built-in video capture capability. The extraordinary versatility of this compact system, combined with the very high picture and sound quality made possible by digital technology, make it an ideal choice for both business and personal applications. It is ready to play a leading role in today's multimedia environment.

Multimedia role with JLIP

The GR-DVM1D comes into its own when connected to a computer, and fortunately there is no need for the user to invest in an expensive videocapture board, which often requires complicated installation procedures. This is because the digital docking station can provide direct digital out-put via serial cable to the computer's standard 9-pin serial port (RS-232C). Once the supplied video capture software (compatible with Microsoft Windows 95 and 3.1) has been installed, it is a simple matter to import still images from the camcorder while looking at the LCD monitor. To speed up the process, thumbnail-size shots (80 x 60 dots) are first displayed on the computer monitor for quick review and easy visual selection; full-size images (640 x 480 dots) are then transferred in either BMP or JPEG format. Once in the computer, these images can be processed (using appropriate software), stored or printed to form a photo database, and incorporated into multimedia presentations or Web pages. The possibilities are limitless.

To control the GR-DVM1D from the computer, the capture software makes use of JLIP (Joint Level Interface Protocol), designed by JVC to enable efficient bidirectional control of AV equipment as well as provide computer connectivity. DV time code and cam corder status information are passed on to the computer, which issues commands to the camcorder via the same serial cable. With this function, the user can search through a tape, in either direction, locate a desired shot and capture it- using only the mouse. Sequential interval capture is also available. After thumbnail-size images are selected, the program capture function can automatically transfer up to 99 full-size images into the computer during unattended operation. An extra benefit is that the time-coded thumbnail data can be saved to disk as an index to desired scenes on a particular tape; this saves hard disk space because the actual images can be transferred later. Furthermore, by connecting the docking station's JLIP terminal to other JLIP-ready equipment, centralized control from the computer is possible. The full functionality for such an integrated multimedia setup is provided by the supplied JLIP Movie Player software, which enables frame-to-frame editing of up to 99 scenes.

The GR-DVM1D is supported by a growing line-up of products that serve to enhance its multimedia potential. For instance, to produce full-color prints, one need only connect the digital docking station's video-out terminal to JVC's GV-PT2 Multimedia Printer.

Bright LCD swing monitor

The camcorder sports the world's first high-quality 2.5" polycrystalline silicon TFT active matrix monitor. This high-performance 180,000-pixel LCD has a horizontal resolution of 400 lines to make the most of DV picture quality, and it's bright enough to see even in full daylight. It also has a unique hinge that allows it to swivel through 270 degrees, accommodating low/high-angle shooting and even self-portraits. The combination of this LCD monitor and the powerful 1-1/8"-diameter speaker means you can review- and listen to- a tape at any time. Furthermore, since all of the controls for playback operation are grouped on the monitor panel itself, they are accessible in any LCD position.

As soon as the LCD monitor is opened, the camcorder automatically powers up. It can be held comfortably in one hand for natural point-and-shoot convenience. With the LCD monitor folded flat, the camcorder measures only 2-3/8" x 6-1/8" x 3-3/4" (59 x 156 x 94mm), making it easy to carry and easy to store. Thanks to its compact design, smooth contours and internal battery housing, it slips easily into a bag or brief case.

Digital recording/playback features

To ensure high definition and clarity, the camcorder is equipped with a 570,000-pixel 1/3" CCD image sensor, sensitive enough to operate in dimly lit situations (less than 1 lux in Slow Shutter mode). Thanks to this advanced image sensor, JVC's high-resolution digital Image Stabilizer is able to eliminate camera shake without affecting picture quality or image size. Also provided are two PCM digital audio stereo recording modes - 2 channels with 48kHz sampling for highest quality, and 4 channels with 32kHz sampling for later stereo dubbing. Additionally, LP mode now allows up to 90 minutes of recording on a single Mini DV cassette.

The GR-DVM1D offers a wide range of Special Effects and Scene Transitions; some special effects- such as Sepia and Black & White- are even available during playback. Among the other advanced digital features available during playback are the 10x Pinpoint Digital Zoom, which allows the user to pan in all four directions using the remote control unit. (For a full listing of the many other features of the GR-DVM1D, such as the 100x Super Digital Zoom and Snapshot mode, please turn to the next page.)

Digital editing functions

Digital technology means that processing can be performed with virtually no loss in picture or sound quality. As well as Insert Editing and 4-channel Stereo Audio Dubbing, the GR-DVIMD enables precise editing with the sort of flexibility normally found only in a professional editing suite. JVC's Random Assemble Editing allows the programmed rearrangement of up to 8 scenes at a time, using the supplied remote control unit. What is more, the user can also select special effects and scene transitions during the editing. This capability reinforces the GR-DVM1D's role as a powerful multimedia tool.