Last updated on January 23rd, 2024 at 02:34 am
AVCHD is increasingly becoming popular as a recording format of choice in consumer camcorders. If you’re shooting a video in HD, you’d want to know more about it.
Here are some frequently asked questions on this increasingly-popular video format.
What is ACVCHD?
AVCHD stands for Advanced Video Codec High Definition. It was a compression format jointly developed by Sony and Panasonic in 2006. In 2011, ACHD 2.0 was rolled out.
Is AVCHD a codec?
No, it’s not. It’s a compressed data format.
What compression technology does AVCHD use?
AVCHD uses the H.264/MPEG-4 video compression which is effective in compressing video data to impressively small sizes without noticeable quality loss.
What audio compression does AVCHD use?
The two types of audio codecs commonly used are the Dolby AC-3 also known as Dolby Digital or Linear PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) which utilizes lossless encoding.
What video file extension does AVCHD use?
It uses the MTS (MPEG Transport Stream) or M2TS (MPEG-2 Transport Stream).
What kind of resolution can I expect from AVCHD in a camcorder?
Three resolutions. 1080p, 1080i and 720p.
How do I know whether a camcorder supports the AVCHD format?
You have to look out for the AVCHD logo.
What is the main advantage of the AVCHD format compared to Mini DV and HDV?
The main advantage is AVCHD can be stored in a variety of media. Whereas Mini DV and HDV would require Mini DV tape, AVCHD can be stored on optical discs (8cm-DVD/CD), memory cards, hard drives, and even flash drives.
What Advantage Does AVCHD have when it comes to editing?
Every time you press and stop your camera record button, a new file will be created. These files can be easily located unlike in a tape. So, you can quickly import a particular file to edit because you can see a thumbnail of it. Very helpful if you need to quickly edit and produce a short video project.
What Disadvantage Does the AVCHD Format Have?
You may face some problems with the format when it comes to editing. Most video editing applications do not support the direct import of the AVCHD format. AVCHD files need to be converted to a compatible format. So, if you want to save time on the conversion you would need to choose a video editing application that directly supports AVCHD.
What Can I do if My Video Editing Program Doesn’t Support Direct Import of AVCHD footage?
You’ll need to log and transfer your footage to another format compatible with your video editor.
If my Video Editor Supports the Import of a Native AVCHD File, is there any problem I can run into?
Yes, successfully working with a native AVCHD file will require superior computing power. In short, you must have a computer with a fast processor to edit without any hitches. If you’re going to edit in AVCHD your hardware must be top-end.
Can I burn AVCHD video into DVD?
One of the top advantages of AVCHD is you can burn it to DVD. Take note though that you can’t playback the DVD in a normal DVD player. You would need a Blu-ray player.
