HDD Videocam in High Altitude and Cold

[Kusum Kangguru]

Hi,

I am thinking of getting a HDD videocam for my travels.

As I like to trek in mountainous region (Nepal, Pakistan, ...), I wonder if a HDD videocam can function in the high altitude (max 5000+ m) and cold.

What about miniDV and DVD videocam?

Thanks.

 

[tommon]

I think the batts are what you should be concerned about. Move HDD still works. Keep the cam and batts inside near your body when not in use.

 

[lwm]

I had some problem with my old Sony miniDV cam in Nepal. It was around 4000m, and I don't think it was too cold (autumn). But some video turned out to have lines across.

 

[ness96]

I brought my Canon 20D & Sony HDV HVR-A1 to Lake Tahoe, USA, up the skidding mountains (Temp: -6C; attitute: not sure) and Grand Canyon (Temp: -10C) last Dec.

Came back with beautiful still & video shots of my family holiday trip.

Just make sure you have your battery fully charged.

 

[Kusum Kangguru]

I was worried because I heard that hard disk cannot function if the air pressure is too low. The reading/writing head requires a cushion of air to work. So I heard ;p

 

[engr]

just took my HC1 up to 3200m in Jade Snow mountain in China last week. Functioned well. It was -2 Deg but no snow. So I guess thaz not enuf to prove anything. Some Digi cam had battery problems.

 

[tommon]

If you using those dedicated HD for videos it should be ok as it is sealed; like the Sony 60Gb or Firestore not sure about the others. So check your manual or manufacturer.

 

[Kusum Kangguru]

Hi,

Thanks for the replies.

Tommon, are the hard disks in normal Sony HDD camcorders sealed?

What's firestore?

Cheers.