With the autumn 2008 release of the GoPro HERO Wide, now, GoPro has gone one better by introducing a High-Definition version of that same model. The water/shockproof HD HERO Wide sports a 170-degree lens, (which is over three times wider than its popular competitor), the Standard-Definition Oregon Scientific ATC5K. The wider lens definitely smoothes out the shakes and takes in more scenery, but it also allows for more inclusion of what the camera is mounted on. Being able to see things like the user’s hands on their handlebars, for example, really make viewers feel like they’re part of the action.
GoPro’s HD Hero is the world’s only 1080p HD on-board video and still photo camera. Professional quality 1080p / 960p / 720p HD resolutions record at 30 and 60 frames per second (60 fps in 720p). Easily mounts to any surfboard in seconds. So light, even top pros claim they don’t notice the camera on their boards. The HD Surf HERO can also shoot 5MP photos automatically every 2 seconds while you surf, ride, drive, ski, board, or whatever.
With the simple press of the shutter button, you can capture photos during your entire run. Other photo modes include 5 / 10 / 30 / and 60 second time lapse as well as single shot, triple shot and self timer modes. The batteries last for over 2.5 hours of HD video or automatic photo taking, so you can document your entire ride with a single push of the shutter button.[adsense]
Waterproof to 180′ / 60m and protected from rocks and other hazards thanks to its removable polycarbonate housing, the GoPro HD HERO Wide offers a wide variety of mounting systems, which will let you put the camera on your helmet, handlebar, RC model, automobile, surfboard, chest or wrist. A peephole-type viewfinder allows you to roughly line up your shots.
The simple little HERO is good on power, being able to shoot for up to two and a half hours on its rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Over four hours of video can be recorded at a maximum resolution of 1080p on a 32GB SD memory card (not included). The image quality is maintained when uploading to services like YouTube, and is excellent when viewed in its native format on your computer or TV. Starting at $300, or just $190 for the Standard-Def version, this is a fun device. ($300, www.goprocamera.com)
