The JVC GY-HD100U is a 3-CCD camcorder that uses the HDV codec to capture images in a 24-frame mode. As with other HDV camcorders this unit can use DV consumer tape and is capable of recording standard definition video as well. Professional details like die-cast all-metal construction and a fine grade Fujinon lens will not disappoint experienced shooters. The camera is a shoulder-mount design for the most stable hand-held shooting positions. JVC is one of the original developers of the MPEG-2 compression system. MPEG-2 is an interframe encoding system that combines multiple frames of digital picture data into a group of pictures (GOP). It then removes redundant information from the GOP resulting in far greater efficiency than with intraframe systems, such as DV, that compress every frame separately. JVC pioneered high definition MPEG-2 recording with its D-VHS format used by major motion picture studios for screening and playback of dailies. JVC's advanced MPEG-2 codecs are used by major television networks and satellite providers. In the GY-HD100U JVC has utilized a highly efficient MPEG-2 codec that compresses the full HD resolution without downsizing the image.