I know nothing about video technology but would like to install a video recorder on the roll bar of my car. Will any recorder work with any mount? I'd like something that can go directly to the computer and doesn't contain a tape or cd. Mount and camera need to be small.

So instead of listening to a salesmen, I thought I'd ask in here to see what the pro's recommend.

 

i/o port racing has a nice camera mount....

 

The I/O port mount is nice. I know you want a tape free system, so I can't comment about that. I have a Cannon Z80. It was less than $400. Is small, and light. It gives 90 minutes of record time and downloads to my laptop quite easily. I think they are even cheaper now.

There are lots of nicer options with lipstick cams, etc. try here for some more info:

http://itforum.improvedtouring.com/f...showtopic=5747

jim

 

I have an I/O port mount and a JVC GR270D (MiniDV). Not a super expensive camera, but then again you don't want something super expensive because it will take a little abuse in the car. It has a Firewire port that allows me to dump directly to my computer, although you have to play the tape in real time, so however much you've recorded, that's how long it'll take to dump to disk.

Only drawback to the camera is that I needed to get a wide angle lens for it so that you can see the whole cockpit in the shot.

And a word about the hard disk recording systems, apparently they don't hold up to humidity very well (the JVCs at least) They build up moisture inside the camera and then short out.