Video making and editing in school is expensive isn’t it? Well it was until Intel brought out its new Pocket PC Video Camera. This remarkable creation can give a practical insight into how the most pervasive medium in children’s lives - TV and film - works. It’s also great if you want to record events, impress parents, enhance a curriculum subject, or simply have some fun.

For pound;114.95, Intel’s remarkable creation will take video clips - 12 10-second versions fit in the memory - as well as snapshots (128 are accommodated). It also allows you to take five photos in rapid succession. We’re not talking megapixel images here, but that’s no problem as you’re most likely to be buying this camera for its video function.

When you’re out and about away from your computer, the camera is powered with ordinary batteries and it’s small enough to fit easily into your pocket (and, unfortunately, that of a thief).

Once back at your computer, you can edit the video sequences you’ve recorded together. This makes it a great way to introduce children to the rudiments of editing. So if you’re into process rather than product, it’s really worth looking at.

Even the drawbacks have advantages. Few shots in films last longer that 10 seconds, so being restricted to this clip length is actually quite realistic and will give children and appreciation of films as visual mosaics. The camera won’t record location sound, but many directors add sound during the editing stage and you can do that here, too.

The software that comes with the camera enables children to trim sequences they have created and then meld them together. And if you have the latest Microsoft operating systems, XP or ME, both include software you can use.

The really great thing is that the cost of this camera means video making doesn’t have to be something which you can only afford to do once a year. It can be done in your classroom without having to sign your life away on expensive equipment. And if you have an expensive set up, it will be good to use as a skills nursery.

Finally, the camera and software is easy to install and use. It can only be linked to PCs with a USB port.

Intel Pocket PCCamera Price: pound;114.95Tel: 01474 537886www.taglearning.com www.intel.compccamerapocket.htm

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