DV and HDV tapes look similar, but are slightly different.
DV tapes and HDV tapes are both used for recording digital video in camcorders. The cassette and tape size are exactly the same between these two video formats. However, they do have some slight differences that will affect video recording, especially for cameras designed to shoot video in high-definition quality.
Video Resolution
DV tapes are designed for cameras that shoot standard-definition quality video. HDV tapes are the same size as DV tapes, but are specifically designed for cameras that shoot high-definition video. DV video is recorded in its own special compression format, while HDV video recordings are compressed using the MPEG2 format, which is also found on DVDs and Blu-ray discs.
Tape Quality
The main difference between DV and HDV tapes is that HDV tapes have been specially prepared to handle high-definition streams. Because of the added file size and video compression needed to record high-definition video to the tape, any tape errors could cause several seconds of high-definition video footage to be lost. HDV tapes have a more rigid quality testing and better quality lubrication for use in high-definition cameras that will prevent these problems.
Compatibility
While HDV tapes can be used in DV cameras that shoot standard-definition, it is not recommended to shoot high-definition footage on a standard DV tape. Also, a tape recorded in high-definition cannot be played back on a camera or video player that is only compatible with standard-definition DV tapes. This is due to the different compression formats used for the two formats.
Other Notes
If you have an HDV camera, it is important to use only one brand and type of tape. Do not switch between DV and HDV tapes or tapes from different brands, because they use different lubrication on the magnetic tape that can cause problems with the tape drive of the camera when mixed together. If you do mix tape types or brands, you may discover drop-outs when playing or recording video on the camera.
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