Questions about AVCHD format

See : http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1225241&tstart=0

HDV importing is less "processor intensive", and should import in "real time" on a MacBook Pro.

AVCHD camcorders tend to store their recordings on the camcorder's internal hard disc, on memory chips or on miniDVDs. So where do you keep the original footage if you want to re-use the hard disc or the memory chip(s)?

HDV is generally recorded on (cheap) miniDV tapes. Fill a one-hour tape and just stick in another one ..and keep the originals for as long as you want, e.g; for several years.

See HDV samples here.

"..will Apple release an update to iMovie that allows native use and editing of AVCHD files?.."

No speculation allowed here, but I'd say ..er, No.

Please note that the tests were made on a Macbook ICD 1.83.

Maybe the brand new IC2D lines (iMac, MB Pro, MB, ...) perform far better (1:1 import would be great).

I asked this information several times on the forum but without success.

Regards.