CCTV Camera as In-Car Video Camera
 

Tell me this idea is crazy (or not). Sony has a 1/2" HAD cctv camera that operates at 12 VDC:

http://bssc.sel.sony.com/Professional/webapp/ModelInfo?m=0&sm=0&p=2&sp=14&id=17427

Ultra-sensitive, and only 1.5 lb. Light enough to mount on the rear-view mirror collar of the front windshield, provided you can find the right clamp. The 1/4" screw hole seems to be on the top (I guess these guys are mounted from ceilings most of the time), so you're not trying to jimmy a c-bracket or other mounting device that depends on a bottom attachment. Get a Tamron lens, set the focus, and either let it run in auto iris or fixed iris mode. Plug the Y/C output from the camera into your dv-camcorder S-video input.

Here's why I like this idea. Excluding the camcorder, the street price is under $900 with all accessories (incl. lens and power supply, i.e., use a zener with your cigarette lighter). With a 1/2" HAD sensor, the resolution is better than most prosumer camcorders. These video cameras are good enough for police surveillance work, i.e., you can use them for evidence 'cause they can capture license plate numbers that are very legible.

Now, how about the negatives? Is the color accuracy much poorer than a DVX-100? Who has actually used such cctv cameras in the field?

Marc,

You may also want to consider a Sony XC 999. Similar specs, much smaller and does not require a cam control. Can usually find them on Ebay (one there now) for about $6-700. I've been resisting the urge for a while. The size would allow of helmet and MANY other mounting options. Resolution/Color is good enough that they are used on 35/70mm film cams to provide realtime video for the director.