miniDV tape with or without memory chip?

[phoenixlpr 0]

I've seen miniDV tape labeled with 4k memory chip.
Do you know that which camcorder brand/model can use that? Does it worth the extra $? Thanks!

[indyz 1]

I found this quote by Googling, and it's a good summary of common IC features: "DV tapes with IC Memory Chips allows you to build a 'Table of Contents' of the tape that can be accessed automatically to locate a particular recording date, index point or even add titling to the memory that can be turned on and off during playback." So the main benefit is that you can have the camera pop up a menu of shots stored on the tape, and have it automatically seek there. Pretty nifty.

That said, I don't know anybody who uses the IC tapes, and I don't know anybody who has ever found themselves in a situation where they wished they had an IC tape. I guess it could be useful for those who shoot lots of tape and do automated cataloging type stuff, but for the average joe who shoots one tape a weekend, it probably isn't necessary.

[phoenixlpr 0]

Thanks.

I did my googling too:
From Sony DCR-HC32/42 manual, page 106:

***Your camcorder is not compatible with cassettes with Cassette Memory.



But, TVR900 and TRV22 is.

[dragon2 2]

Some newer sony's are not compatible, like the hc1, a1 etc.

ciel bleu,
Saskia