An overview of the Flip hardware

- The Flip Ultra HD is a camera that can record HD video and uses flash memory to store the files. The namesake is the flip-out USB arm that makes PC connection a breeze.

- On the front, you'll find the lens as well as a built-in microphone and a recording indicator light.

- On the back of the Flip, you'll find an LCD screen as well as the control panel. Left and right go forward and back, up and down control volume and zoom, and the big red button starts and stops recording. The play button is used to review videos while the trash buttons lets you delete files.

- On the left of the camera, you'll find the power button as well as an eyelet to attach the lanyard so you can secure your camera.

- The right of the camera houses the Flip's USB arm that can be extended with a switch. Plug this into a computer to transport or manage your files.

- The bottom of the camera has a tripod mount as well as an HDMI port and a FlipPort, which allows you to attach Flip accessories. There's also a switch to unlock the battery compartment.

- Inside the battery compartment, you'll find a proprietary rechargeable battery, which can be replaced with three AAA batteries if necessary.