CNN has ordered 177 JVC GY-HM100 camcorders as it sets about replacing its tape-based fleet of DV camcorders.

The handheld 3-CCD camcorder, which records high definition video at 35 Mbps in MPEG-2 format, is compatible with the XDCAM file-based workflow used throughout CNN.

JVC said that the lightweight form factor and solid-state recording of the GY-HM100, which retails for around £2,000, would complement CNN’s traditional shoulder-type electronic newsgathering equipment.