Handycam
Sony Handycam DCR-SX63 | |
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Maker | Sony |
| Type | Camcorder |
| Released | 1985 |
| General | |
| Video recording | Various formats; see § Models |
| Made in | Japan |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Betamovie |
Handycam is a line of camcorders made by Sony and introduced in 1985.
Handycam was first used as the name of the first Video8 camcorder in 1985, replacing Sony's previous line of Betamax-based models of camcorders. The name was intended to emphasize the "handy" palm size nature of the camera, made possible by the then-new miniaturized tape format. This was in contrast to the larger, shoulder mounted cameras made before the creation of Video8, as well as competing smaller formats such as VHS-C.