Questions from a digital video newbie

[dkostel]

Hi,
I will be in the world for 8 days and I need video storage advice.
I've borrowed a pocket sized digital video recorder and was wondering how much storage (SD cards) I would need? Is there a way to transfer the content of the SD cards onto an external hard drive and then wipe the card to use the next day? Do I need to bring my laptop to perform this feat?
Any advice would be appreciated!!
Thanks,
Donna

[Frantasmic]

If it's HD video, it will take up more space. I can't really advise on that since I do not have HD video experience. My Canon S5 takes non-HD video and I get about 30 minutes per 4gb card.

If you did want to download you video, the easiest way is to bring a laptop and ensure you have an SD card reader (either built-in to the laptop or externally via a universal card reader device). If your laptop is several years old, there may be a disconnect if it can read newer SD cards. However, if it is say less than 5 years old, you should be okay.

You should only format your card in your digital camcorder though. It can be done via the laptop; however, some people claim this increases the risk of damaging your SD card.

[seashoreCM]

I would suggest buying and bringing more memory cards. Even when you can upload the card to a laptop, it's worth setting aside the filled cards as backup until you get back home, and use additional cards for more shooting.