
When we talk about video recording technology, Betacam is a name of a videotape format developed by Sony and used for both professional filming and home use. The name is also used to refer to equipment and accessories which use the format such as an ordinary videocassette recorder. There are both analog and digital versions of Betacam, though the format has been replaced by non-tape formats in some professional use.
All Betacam products use tape which is half an inch or 1.27cm wide, replacing previously common three-quarter inch or 1.9cm formats. Although there are several versions of the Betacam format, all use the same shape tape in one of two styles, making it easier to upgrade equipment without needing new tapes. The tapes are color – coded to indicate their format. And thanks to these formats, new technologies were developed such as CD, DVD, and even Blu – Ray formats that gives a better quality picture and sound as well.