AVCHD Lite vs MOTION JPEG: What's the difference?

[Graboid]

I own a Lumix FZ40. It was a gift, and included a 4GB memory card. I will be purchasing a card with greater storage capacity and faster read/write rating (my current card is pathetically slow).

I noticed that the manufacturer states:

•Use a card with SD Speed Class with "Class 4" or higher when recording motion pictures in [AVCHD Lite]. Also, use a card with SD Speed Class with "Class 6" or higher when recording motion pictures in [MOTION JPEG].

What is the difference between AVCHD Lite and MOTION JPEG? I would be using video for personal use, and creating home grown movies. I know nothing about film, so you're looking at a complete rookie.

Which setting would be ideal or best? Should I purchase a 8GB Class 10?

Also, I noticed that the manufacturer doesn't provide me with a MAXIMUM SDHC Class Rating requirement. The only information provided is a minimum rating. What I would like to know specifically is whether or not a 8GB Class 10 would exceed the maximum rating required.

Your assistance is deeply appreciated.

Thank you,
Graboid

 

[Uwe Steinmueller]

I wrote this article for DPReview:

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/7907358679/video-compression-codecs-and-transcoding

Motion JPEG is less efficient than AVCHD. But is easier to handle and maybe just ok for you. Normally the best quality from a camera (that offers these choices) would be AVCHD.

--
Editor of Digital Outback Photo
http://www.outbackphoto.com/index_news.html

 

[Graboid]

I deeply appreciate the info. and link.

Thank you,
Graboid

 

[Graboid]

Uwe Steinmueller,

What type of memory card should I purchase? Should I buy a Class 4, 6, or 10? What about MB's? I don't think I want to purchase a 16MB card.

What do you recommend?

Graboid

 

[Uwe Steinmueller]

Cards are not expensive.8GB is fine and class 6 will do but I like to use class 10 cards (good manufacturer).
--
Editor of Digital Outback Photo
http://www.outbackphoto.com/index_news.html

 

[Graboid]

splendid.

By "good card", do you mean-be sure to purchase a good card? If this is the case, what is your preference? I've used SanDisk and the cards have never caused me any grief.

 

[Graboid]

My apologies. I mean to say, "good manufacturer".

 

[Uwe Steinmueller]

SanDisk

I use them
--
Editor of Digital Outback Photo
http://www.outbackphoto.com/index_news.html