1. The format of the file is determined by the transfer software.
And most of use FIREWIRE as the link.
2. "Standard Definition Camcorders" would be at most 480 lines with 320 to 640 pixels per line so I have to ask how you get up to 3.3 million pixels. The math doesn't work.
Maybe you are looking at some HD camcorder and not "Standard Definition Camcorders"?
Let's say you had the HD camcorder. You'd want software that works in HD such as Sony Vegas.
Bob
Hi,
I intend to buy one camcorder. As I know that MiniDV can offer the best quality among Standard Definition Camcorders nowadays then I intend to buy one MiniDV camcorder. However, I would like to get your reply for the followings (as I'm quite new to camcorders):
1- What is the format of the file if I transfer from MiniDV to my computer? Do I need a capture card? My computer is running on Windows XP, 1024 MB RAM, 80GB HDD
2- Assumed it's a 3.3MP camcorder and my recording is in 16:9 aspect ratio, Can I get the HD quality of my recording (1920 x 1080 = 2,073,600 (less than 3MP) if directly playback in HDTV. If not, what is the resolution of my recording (supposing my camcorder is set at maximum resolution)
Thank you very mush for your kind reply!
Best regards
Hoang Cong Thanh (hcongthanh@yahoo.com)

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic