The market for portable DVRs, which are used to record videos from individual perspectives, is expected to take off this year.
Portable DVRs allow users to shoot videos hands-off by connecting a small digital recording device with a camera fixed to clothes. They may seem similar to portable multimedia players, but the inside design adopts the DVR technology considering long hours of video recording.
According to the industry, portable DVRs designed to be carried within pocket are fast emerging as new hot thing. The major customer groups are the police and patrol service firms.
The police authorities in UK and the U.S. are increasingly using portable DVRs for arresting criminals or escorting cash vehicles. Internet users are also boosting demand for DVRs, which they use to record everyday lives, amid the boom of user-created content.
Starnex is poised to launch two models of `Self Guard` portable DVR in March this year. The new products provide support for Bluetooth 2.0-based wireless cameras as well as fixed-line cameras, allowing users to record videos in less-straight positions. They record videos at 30 frames per second and four hour-long voice information, but are still smaller than MP3Ps.
"We are toiling on portable DVRs targeting Internet users with interest in UCC as well as patrol and security firms," said Park Sang-rae, CEO of the company.
Comart System is launching a super slim portable DVR smaller than a business card in February this year. The company is also working on a new version attached to a helmet or a goggle targeting demand from patrol companies.
Yuho Hitech has already launched `SUV-Cam,` portable digital camera capable of sports shooting, in the home market. The new product supports MPEG4 videos in 640 by 480 resolution, and allows users to check the images immediately with a 2.2-inch LCD screen.
"Portable DVRs are a niche item that comes between camcorders and DVRs," said Seol Chang-hun, CEO of Comart System, adding they will give fresh breath to the DVR market this year.