How Does a Video Camera Work?

Video cameras are one of the best ways to capture some of your most treasured memories, such as your child’s first steps, your wedding ceremony, or a holiday that you want to remember forever. Because of this, if your video camera suddenly stops working, it’s definitely worth knowing how they work so that you can fix it to ensure your memories are kept safe.

The Different Components of a Video Camera

A video camera has multiple components but we think that the most important ones to consider are:

  • The charge coupling device (CCD)
  • The lens
  • The VCR unit

Each of these components has a specific and unique purpose.

The Charge Coupling Device

The CCD is one of the most important parts of any recording device, whether that be a traditional camera or a new video camera. The role of the CCD is to convert light signals, known as photons, into electrical charges. These electrical charges are then converted into numerical values which can then be stored on a computer.

Luckily, each of these values indicates a certain amount of light that has hit the CCD chip, so it can build up a digital image. This can be stored on a memory stick as a colour image, or it can be sent digitally through a cable link to a computer.

The Lens

The job of the lens is to focus as much light as possible onto the CCD chip. The lens does this by integrating three important aspects: the focal length, the zoom, and the aperture. The focal length is important in multiple lens cameras, as it is the distance between these lenses and the CCD chip when the object in question is in focus.

The zoom allows the focal length to change, meaning that you can vary the angle of view. This is particularly important if you want to zoom in on an important event but maintain picture clarity. The aperture is responsible for making sure that the image is clear and of high quality.

The VCR Unit

The VCR unit is responsible for writing the video signal onto a recording medium, whether that be a small video cassette, a magnetic videotape or even a memory stick.

Traditionally, in analogue video cameras, the medium that was used would be magnetic videotapes, as they allowed recordings to be made in multiple parts. However, in modern day life, digital mediums tend to be a preferable means of storage.

Because of the advancements in the digital world, the use of magnetic video tapes and the like are becoming more obsolete, so it is very important to make sure that none of your old tapes are lost forever. Luckily, we are here to help!

At Video2DVD, we are able to convert your old magnetic videos to DVD or other alternatives, meaning that you can keep your cherished memories on your computer and even back it up to be even more secure. If you would like to know more information, then get in touch today on 0800 592 433 or 01296 395 758 and we will be more than happy to help.