JVC GR-D230aa help/questions

[Emeryz]

Hey, So I've got some questions about my mini DV cam.

Okay it doesnt always turn on when I leave the battery in and turn off the cam... it just gets flat by is self? is it the cam or battery?

Also whats a cheap good gunshot mic that would fit this camera, as I use it for skating and want better sound.

Cheers

[guns1inger]

Even when a camera is off there is residual power drain. In part for keeping things like the clock ticking over, and simply because no battery holds it's charge indefinitely, and rechargeable tend to drain faster than standard batteries when not in use. Also, repeated charging shortens the battery life of rechargeable batteries, as does the manner in which they are charged. Some batteries need to be fully drained before charging or they develop a memory that sets a false base level. Others survive longer if they are charged regularly and aren't allowed to run down too often. Given the age and design of most mini-DV cameras, yours is probably of the former type.

[Emeryz]

Kool thanks for getting the battery part down.

[guns1inger]

No probs. Something else to consider - using the LCD screen eats through batteries, so use the viewfinder whenever possible. Also, most models will have long life batteries available for them. Check out the accessories for that camera on the web or at a local camera store. You can probably get something with double the life of a standard battery.

[Emeryz]

ohh yeap, kool thanks for the advice, ill check on B&H now

EDIT: also with tapes, I see theres normal Mini DV tapes then Mini DV HD, would that make a improvement on quality much? since my camera isn't HD anyways?