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Introduction
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01.Product Tour
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02.Compression & Media
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03.Manual Controls
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04.Still Features
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05.Handling & Use
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06.Playback & Connectivity
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07.Audio & Other Features
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08.Conclusion
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09.Photo Gallery
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10.Specs
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11.Comments
Kodak Playsport Zx3 First Impressions Camcorder Review
Previous: Part 5
Handling & UseNext: Part 7
Audio & Other FeaturesPlayback & Connectivity Summary
• The camcorder has an HDMI terminal, USB port, and AV-output.
• The playback screen on the Zx3 is simple, but the VCR controls are difficult to use.
Playback
The playback screen on the Playsport is simple to navigate. Videos and clips are arranged as thumbnails, or you can shuffle through them at full screen using the d-pad. What we weren't impressed with was the Zx3's VCR controls, which are all manipulated with the d-pad buttons. The controls are confusing to use and are very poorly labeled—both not a good sign for a camcorder that is supposed to be built on simplicity.
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| The playback screen on the Playsport Zx3. |
You enter playback mode on the Zx3 by pressing the dedicated playback button on the back of the camcorder. The button is labeled with a small playback icon inside a rectangle.
Connectivity
Most of the camcorder's ports are located on the right side, behind a flip-down port cover. Here, you'll find the USB port, HDMI terminal, and AV-out port. We're guessing that the USB port also doubles as a DC-input because Kodak claims the Playsport Zx3 can be charged using a provided DC cable. The camcorder can also be charged using a USB cable that is connected to a power source or a computer.
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| From left to right: USB, HDMI, and AV-out |
On the other side of the camcorder you'll find the memory card slot and battery compartment. Both are also located behind a thick, plastic covering that should provide adequate protection when the camcorder is under water.
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| The Zx3 records to SD/SDHC memory cards. |
A complete list of the Zx3's connectivity options are listed in the table below:
| Connectivity Options | |
| AV (Composite, RCA) | Yes |
| HDMI | Yes |
| Component | No |
| USB | Yes |
| Audio Input (3.5mm) | No |
| Headphones | No |
| Accessory Shoe | No |
| FireWire | No |
| S-Video | No |
| LANC (Wired Remote) | No |
| Card Slot | SD/SDHC |
| DC Power | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | No |
| GPS | No |
| Docking Station | No |
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