"It is like this: Before Camcorders like the JVC GR-DVL100 and DVL107 had the same hardware, but different software in their memory, so that the dv-in function was loaded and activated at the DVL107, but not on the DVL100. This could be changed by simply changing the value of the dv-in adress in the memory.
Now, since about the beginning 2002, the European Customs have changed their rules: A camcorder that has the possibility to have the dv-in function, will be charged with the full dv-in custom duty applicable. Before this, only cameras with dv-in enabled were liable for this tax.
This new rule is for all Camcorders, that can be dv-in enabled for free with software on the web (I am sorry, some people in the coastweb forum surley don't want to hear that). So Sony, Panasonic, JVC and Canon had to do something (Samsung, Medion and Sharp can only be activated by a dv-in service at costs about 90.-EUR, so here customs did not do anything).
So also JVC had the create a solution, where dv-in can no longer be easily be actived - because if it could be - they would have to pay 9,7% custom's duty extra - this is a very high risk.
What they did: They made a little change on the board by changing an IC (and another small part) on the mainboard. This cab still can be changed, but now you will have to open the camcorder and put in the new IC, which is not very simple at all, because the mainboard is doublesided, with two plantines put together and the ic has the pins under itself. You will have to cut the platine in the middle...
This can be done in total for about 400-500.-EUR and would take some time. This makes it totally uneconomical.
We are still working on some Sony (e.g. TRV140) and Panasonic (e.g. MX2) camcorders, but there, also it does not look good. Canon have done nearly the same as JVC with its MV500.
I hope I could help you a little bit.
Regards,
Michael Lehmann-Horn
magic multi media GmbH"