This little box, being launched at CES by Pinnacle, is designed to make it simple to transfer video files to an iPod, PSP, MP4 player of USB memory device - without a computer!
That should make it great for holidays, since it can take the output from a camcorder, convert it to MPEG4 in H.264, and output it via a USB 2.0 link to any portable player or storage device.
The Pinnacle Video Transfer can also be used with any other video device with either composite or S-video outputs plus stereo audio, so it could record straight from a set-top TV tuner to a portable. It has three quality settings, up to 720x480 NTSC or 720x576 PAL, and features one-touch recording stop/start.
It's backed up by the expertise of Pinnacle Systems' parent company, Avid Technology, whose products are widely used for editing and content creation in the professional broadcast, film and music industries.
The unit measures just 11.3x6.7x2.3cm, comes complete with video/audio cables and a 110-230V power supply, and carries a US price of just $130.
Update: The Pinnacle Video Transfer will be available in the UK shortly, at £100.
