Canon took principles of the 5D — a full-frame SLR which shoots hi-def video — and developed it into a proper movie camera. The sensor is a conservative 8.3MP, and it records 1080p video in each of the three color channels. These pixels are big, for good low-light performance, and the movies are recorded to standard CF cards.
From there, things get very movie-techy. The C300 records in the open-source MXF (Material eXchange Format), can capture compressed MPEG2 Full HD, uses 4:2:2 color sampling and hooks up with all manner of movie accessories. In short, unless you’re a movie pro, not much of this camera will be familiar to you.

COMING SOON
The Sony PMW-F3 is part of the CineAlta 24P family of digital cinematography products and its support for multiple frame rates includes a filmic 23.98P as well as S-Log workflows.
Sony’s Exmor™ Super35 CMOS sensor was designed with the benefit of two decades experience in Digital Cinematography, pioneering digital HD acquisition for feature films and broadcast TV through the legendary CineAlta product range. It brings a true ‘film look’ and superior image quality into reach for independent movies, pop promos, commercials and other applications, as well as making the PMW-F3K an ideal B-camera for high-end feature film production.
The PMW-F3 can be supplied with three high quality Sony lenses (35mm, 50mm and 85mm) and an industry standard PL Mount adaptor providing compatibility with industry standard 35mm lenses. (It is also available with just the camera body and PL mount.)
Exceptional flexibility is a key feature of the PMW-F3K along with with multiple workflow options. XDCAM EX’s proven high-speed, intuitive workflow offers seamless integration with leading nonlinear editing software – as standard. In addition, a 10bit 4:2:2 HD-SDI output opens up hybrid recording possibilities with a variety of external recording devices. And from April 2011, a Dual Link HD-SDI option will enable 10bit RGB uncompressed signal output – ideal for the high-end film production.
Viewfinder Option
For those looking for a professional, adjustable and feature-rich viewfinder option, check out the Cineroid Electronic Viewfinder. It’s lightweight and offers HDMI loop-through for additional monitoring.
Exmor™ Super35 CMOS image sensor
The PMW-F3 is equipped with a Super 35mm sensor which is the same size as Super 35mm film and has been specifically developed for digital cinematography. Its positioning within the chassis is exactly the same as it would be within a 35mm film camera – ensuring exactly the same optical performance with the unrivalled range of 35mm Cine lenses.
In addition, Sony’s advanced accumulated sensor technologies provide an excellent sensitivity of F11 (ISO 800)* and a remarkable signal-to-noise ratio of just 63 dB*. Unique Exmor™ sensor offers exceptional noise reduction and greatly reduces power consumption.
*All measured at 1080/59.94i and typical value.
Three High Quality 35mm Lenses supplied as standard
To make your entry into the world of 35mm as easy and economical as possible, the PMW-F3K camera package comes supplied with three high quality Sony lenses (35mm, 50mm and 85mm, T2.0).
PL Mount Adapter for compatibility with 35mm Cine Lenses
The PMW-F3 is supplied with a PL Mount Adapter to provide immediate compatibility with the huge range of filmic 35mm lenses, including prime, digital cinematography and even still lenses. There are also hot shoe electric interfaces for Cooke/i and ARRI LDS.
Sony F3 Original Mount for Zoom Lens
Sony plan to introduce a range of zoom lenses directly compatible with the F3 mount. More details will be revealed shortly. Zoom lens compatibility expands the operational flexibility of the F3 so it can be used for almost any application.
23.98P Native Recording
The PMW-F3 camcorder is the first compact camcorder to be a member of the legendary Sony CineAlta™ family. It offers native 23.98P* recording which, in combination with advanced creative features such as selectable gamma curves, makes this camcorder ideal for cinema production.
*In 1440 x 1080/23.98P (SP) mode, images are handled as 23.98P and recorded as 59.94i signals through means of 2-3 pull-down.
Slow & Quick Motion function
The PMW-F3 offers a powerful ‘Slow & Quick Motion’ function – commonly known as over-cranking and under-cranking in film shooting – enables users to create unique ‘looks’ or special effects with slow -and fast- motion images. This can be selected on the control dial on the side of the camcorder.
The PMW-F3 can capture images at frame rates selectable from 1 fps (frame per second) to 60 fps in 720P mode and from 1 fps to 30 fps in 1080P mode, in increments of 1 fps, onto a single card. For example, when viewed at 23.98P, images captured at 60 fps will appear 2.5 times slower than normal. Conversely, images captured at 4 fps will appear 6 times faster than normal.
With the ‘Slow & Quick Motion’ function of this camcorder, images are recorded natively without interpolating the frames. This means the quality of the slow -and fast- motion images is extremely high and incomparable to those created in the editing process. In addition, these slow -and fast- motion images can be played back immediately after shooting, without using any converters or processing on nonlinear editing systems.
1920 x 1080 HD recording using the ‘MPEG-2 Long GOP’ codec
The PMW-F3 camcorder records 1920 x 1080 HD images using the ‘MPEG-2 Long GOP’ codec, which conforms to the MPEG-2 MP@HL compression standard. ‘MPEG-2 Long GOP’ is a mature codec – also adopted by the XDCAM HD and HDV 1080i series of products – which enables users to record stunning-quality HD footage with highly efficient, reliable data compression.
Selectable Bit Rates
The PMW-F3K camcorder offers a choice of bit rates – either 35 Mb/s (HQ mode) or 25 Mb/s (SP mode) – depending on the desired picture quality and recording time. The HQ mode supports both 1920 x 1080 and 1280 x 720 resolutions. The SP mode supports 1440 x 1080 resolution at 25 Mb/s, which provides compatibility with HDV 1080i products.
Multiple-format recording – 1080/720 and Interlace/Progressive switchable operation
The PMW-F3 camcorder offers a wide array of recording formats for multiple content creation applications. Scanning mode is switchable between 1920 x 1080, 1280 x 720, and 1440 x 1080 resolutions. Frame rate is also selectable from interlace and progressive – 59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 25P, and native 23.98P*.
In addition, 59.94P and 50P progressive recording is available in 1280 x 720 mode. The SxS memory card can simultaneously hold multiple files of any of these recording formats, allowing for flexible use of the memory card.
*In 1440 x 1080/23.98P (SP) mode, images are handled as 23.98P and recorded as 59.94i signals through means of 2-3 pull-down.
Slow Shutter Function
The PMW-F3 camcorder offers a ‘Slow Shutter function’ for capturing clear images in low-light environments. This allows the shutter speed to be extended to a maximum of 8 frames. The ‘Slow Shutter function’ not only increases camera sensitivity but also produces a special blurring effect when shooting a moving object, for enhanced shooting creativity. The shutter speed is selectable from 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 7- and 8-frame periods.
High-quality uncompressed audio recording
In addition to HD recording, high-quality audio is an equally significant feature in the XDCAM EX system. The PMW-F3 camcorder records and plays back high-quality, two-channel 16-bit, 48-kHz linear PCM uncompressed audio.
Exceptional workflow flexibility
The PMW-F3 uses XDCAM EX’s proven high-speed, intuitive workflow offering seamless integration with leading nonlinear editing software. In addition, 10bit 4:2:2 HD-SDI output opens up hybrid recording possibilities with content simultaneously recorded on internal memory and, in uncompressed form, on a variety of external recording devices.
From April 2011, a Dual Link HD-SDI option will enable 10bit RGB 23.98/25/29.97PsF or 10 bit 4:2:2 108050P/59.94P uncompressed external recording – ideal for integration with highest quality production workflows such as HDCAM SR. The PMW-F3 also supports selectable Gamma, four levels of HyperGamma and S-Log for a wide range of shooting conditions from standard to wide latitude. The PMW-F3 can simultaneously record LUT (Look Up Table) information onto the internal media for additional workflow flexibility.
3G-SDI is available for 10bit RGB 1080 23.98/25/29.97PsF or 10bit 4:2:2 1080 50/59.94P output.
SxS Memory Cards combine high transfer speeds and high reliability
Both SxS PRO™ and SxS-1A™* memory cards use the PCI Express interface to achieve an extremely high data-transfer speed of 800 Mbps – 1.2Gbps, and can resist considerable shock (1500 G) and vibration (15 G). Also, a unique ‘Salvage function’ serves to restore content damaged by power loss or memory disconnection during recording**.
In addition, with an optional MEAD-MS01 or MEAD-SD01 Media Adaptor***, a high-speed Memory Stick™ or SD memory card**** can be used as emergency or alternative recording media.
* SxS-1A memory cards support fewer re-writes than SxS PRO™ memory cards. Notification is given when an SxS-1 memory card approaches its end of life.
** In some cases, images recorded just before an accident may not be restored (several seconds). No warranty is given on always achieving content restoration.
*** Slow Motion and the Salvage function are not supported.
**** For information about memory devices, please contact your nearest Sony Specialist Dealer.
Long recording time
Utilising a mature and highly efficient compression format together with high performance SxS memory cards, the PMW-F3 can record superb quality HD images for an exceptional 140 minutes* on a single 32Gb update SxS card. As the PMW-F3 features two memory card slots, this recording time is easily doubled to 280 minutes (with two 32Gb cards) and when recording across two cards, the transition is seamless without any frame loss.
*When recording in HQ (35 Mb/s) mode, recording time may be more than the above specified figure depending on the actual bit rate that is adopted during VBR encoding.
IT Friendly
The PMW-F3 is part of Sony’s highly successful XDCAM EX product family which supports a high speed nonlinear workflow. With XDCAM EX, recordings are made as data files in the “MP4″ format, which is widely used in a number of recent electronic portable devices and has been standardised by ISO.
File-based recording allows material to be handled with great flexibility in an IT-based environment – easily available for copying, transferring, sharing, and archiving. All these operations are accomplished without any ‘digitising’ process required.
File-based data copying allows for degradation-free dubbing of footage, which can be performed easily on a PC. The file-based recording system also allows for material to be viewed directly on a PC – simply by inserting the SxS memory card into the ExpressCard slot on a PC or Mac, or by linking a PC/Mac to the XDCAM EX unit via a USB2 connection. This works in just the same way as a PC reading files on an external drive. The file-based operation can dramatically improve the efficiency and quality of your workflow.
Immediate recording start and no overwriting footage
By virtue of recording on flash memory card, the PMW-F3 can start recording virtually the instant the camcorder is turned on. Moreover, the PMW-F3 automatically records on an empty area of the card – there’s no danger of overwriting existing content.
This is extremely convenient, as camera operators do not have to worry about accidentally recording over good takes, and they don’t have to search through footage for the correct position to start the next recording. In short, it means the camera is always ready for the next shot!
Instant-access thumbnail search with ‘Expand’ function
Each time a recording is started and stopped on the PMW-F3 camcorder, the content is recorded as a single clip. During playback, users can cue-up to the next or previous clip simply by pressing the ‘Next’ or ‘Previous’ button, as you would do on a CD or DVD player.
Furthermore, thumbnails are automatically generated for each clip as a visual reference, allowing operators to cue-up to a desired scene simply by guiding the cursor to a thumbnail and pressing the ‘Play’ button.
The ‘Expand’ function allows one selected clip in the thumbnail display to be divided into 12 even-time intervals, each with their own thumbnail identifier. This is useful if you want to quickly search for a particular scene within a lengthy clip.
3.5-inch* Hybrid Colour LCD Screen / Viewfinder as per EX1R
The PMW-F3K is equipped with a newly developed, easy-to-view, colour LCD screen with a high resolution of 1920 x 480 pixels. The LCD screen is located in an easy viewing position on the side of the camera.
The LCD Screen can also be used to instantly review recorded footage, as well as access the camera’s set-up menus and view thumbnail display status indications such as audio meters, depth-of-field indicators, and the remaining memory and battery time. What’s more, the Hybrid LCD screen – which comprises transmissive and reflective panels – offers clear viewing even in bright sunlight.
*Viewable area measured diagonally.
Genlock and Timecode Interfaces
The PMW-F3 includes genlock and timecode interfaces, making it ideal for multi-camera operation and entry level HD studio use.
3D system link option*
Using this option you can easily synchronise timecode, genlock and control functionality with a single cable, locking together left and right cameras to simplify 3D acquisition. *Available from April 2011.
Remote control capability
The PMW-F3 offers professional remote control of various camera features via standard Sony 8-pin control interface. This allows use of Sony optional RM-B150 and RM-B750 remote control units offering increased flexibility for studio/location use.
Compact design
The PMW-F3 has a chassis built around its Super 35mm CMOS sensor. Its lightweight, compact design provides exceptional flexibility when shooting, particularly as a B-camera. It also offers a ‘best of both worlds’ combination of compatibility with 35mm lenses via a PL Mount adaptor, plus support for a huge range of other Sony and third-party digital cinematography accessories.
Low power consumption
Sony’s chip design expertise means the PMW-F3 operates with exceptional efficiency with an average power consumption of 24W. This makes the camera more reliable, extends its battery operating time and is also environmentally conscious. With the optional BP-U60 battery attached, the PMW-F3 can record continuously for just under three hours (with dual-link option off).
Wide array of interfaces
The PMW-F3 camcorder comes equipped with a wide range of interfaces optimised for a variety of operational needs. These include dual HD-SDI output, down-converted SD-SDI output, i.LINK (HDV) input/output, USB2 and analogue composite output.
Additional Features
Only SxS memory cards are guaranteed for use with the PMW-F3 XDCAM EX cmcorder. USB based memory cards cannot be used with the XDCAM EX range. USB based memory cards might work with the XDCAM EX range in some cases, but Sony does not guarantee that all the functions will operate. The performance of USB based memory cards can vary.

Lens Not Included
Panasonic’s AG-AF100 Micro Four Thirds Professional HD Camcorder represents an enormous leap forward in affordable, cinema-quality video imaging. Providing all the professional features that videographers expect in an interchangeable-lens camcorder–manual video and audio control, variable frame rates, HD-SDI and HDMI output, XLR inputs, timecode–the AG-AF100 plays its trump card with a large, 4/3-type image sensor. At 13 times the size of comparably priced 1/3″ sensors (and almost 4 times larger than the 2/3″ chips found in cameras costing more than twice as much), the AG-AF100′s sensor brings the richness of DSLR video into a professional form factor.
Until now, if you wanted a camera that could shoot video with the deep colors, enhanced light sensitivity, and shallow depth-of-field achievable with large-sensor imaging, you had one of two options: an ungainly DSLR kitted out with any number of expensive support accessories, or access to a large bank account. The AG-AF100 not only delivers the image quality, versatility, and control that professional shooters have been clamoring for, but at a price well within most pro-level budgets.
No doubt about it: the large-sensor, interchangeable lens camcorder has finally arrived.
World’s First to Adopt Micro Four Thirds
The AG-AF100 series is the first professional HD camera recorder to adopt the Micro Four Thirds standards. These standards were announced in 2008 as an extension of the Four Thirds standards for DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras. Panasonic and some other manufactures have already released a number of digital cameras and interchangeable lenses based on the Micro Fourth Thirds standards.
The “Four Thirds” name is derived from the 4/3-type (approx. 17.3mm x 13mm) image sensor. The size of the image sensor, the standardized lens mount developed for it, and interchangeable lenses designed exclusively for digital cameras form the core of the Four Thirds standards. These standards were established to offer an optimal solution for digital cameras, breaking loose the confines of film camera standards. In establishing the Micro Four Thirds standards, the flange back distance (the distance from the lens mount surface to the image sensor) was reduced by about half and the mount diameter was made about 6 mm (0.24 inches) smaller than that of the Four Thirds mount. The image sensor size is the same as that of the 4/3 type used in the Four Thirds standard. The Micro Four Thirds standards have made it possible to reduce the size and weight of cameras and lenses, and to achieve greater interchangeability of lenses together with video recording capability.
4/3-type MOS Image Sensor
The 4/3-type MOS image sensor in the AG-AF100 series has about the same imaging area* as that of 35mm cinema film. The depth of field and the focal range are also close to those of film cameras. With the AG-AF100 series, you can record beautiful, shallow depth of field, film-like images. The MOS sensor has two control lines as compared to the three lines required by a conventional CMOS sensor, thus providing a larger light receiving area. This has achieved a high level of sensitivity rivaling that of a CCD sensor. Extensive noise reduction measures are also employed, such as embedded photodiodes isolated from noise sources and low-voltage operation. By guiding more light to the pixels, the AG-AF100 series achieves a wide dynamic range and detailed gradation with minimal blocked shadows or blown highlights in high-contrast scenes, for true-to-life textures and rich colors.
*The effective imaging area is trimmed to a 16:9 aspect ratio.
A Low-Pass Filter for High-Quality HD Motion Images
The AG-AF100 series’ optical low-pass filter is optimized for HD motion images and reduces the aliasing noise that often occurs in motion images captured by an image sensor with a high pixel density. In addition, the MOS image sensor is scanned at a high speed in order to minimize skew distortion.
High-Performance 18-bit DSP
The AG-AF100 series is equipped with a high-performance 18-bit digital signal processor (DSP) for image processing. Optimized for HD video recording, the DSP handles various image rendering processes, such as dynamic range stretch (DRS), gamma, 12-axis independent color correction and detail enhancement, as well as conversion to HD/SD video formats−-all with exceptional precision and high image quality.
Internal Optical ND Filter
The AG-AF100 series has an internal neutral density (ND) filter that is essential for video recording. The dedicated dial on the camera body lets you adjust the setting in three steps (1/4ND, 1/16ND, and 1/64ND) with any type of lenses.
Dynamic Range Stretch Function
DRS recognizes the average brightness of highlight and shadow areas and then automatically adjusts the aperture and uses knee control to suppress blocking in the shadow areas. In scenes with mixed dark and light areas, DRS automatically provides a wider dynamic range with minimal blown highlights and blocked shadows.
7-Mode Gamma for Richer Gradation
Drawing on technologies developed for the VariCam, Panasonic has equipped the AG-AF100 series with advanced gamma functions that address seven different shooting scenarios and enhance your creative abilities. This includes tow cine-like gammas, which produce the characteristic warm tones of film recordings. Other gamma settings include HD Norm, Low, SD Norm, High, and B.Press.
Advanced Image Adjustments
Color setting with matrix table: Norm 1, Norm 2, Fluo and Cine-Like.
Adjustable H detail level, V detail level, detail coring and skin detail.
Adjustable chroma level, chroma phase and master pedestal.
Adjustable color temp: 2400K to 9900K (preset 3200K/5600K).
Knee point settings: Auto, Low, Mid and High.
Adjustable auto-iris level.
AVCHD PH Mode for Professional Applications
The AG-AF100 series uses the AVCHD recording format and also supports the high image quality PH mode. AVCHD complies with MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 High Profile, the latest motion picture compression technology. Boasting a compression efficiency that is more than twice that of the MPEG-2 system (such as HDV), this advanced video file format delivers superb image quality and low data rates. The PH mode was developed for AVCCAM by Panasonic exclusively for high-quality professional video production. This mode boasts a maximum AVCHD bit rate of 24 Mbps (average: 21 Mbps) and records 1920 x 1080 full-HD images.
Uncompressed LPCM 2-Channel Recording
The PH mode supports uncompressed 16-bit LPCM 2-channel digital audio recording for high-quality sound in addition to Dolby Digital 2-channel audio. The HA/HE mode employs Dolby Digital 2-channel audio recording only.
Multi HD Format Compatibility
The AVCHD PH mode is compatible with multiple HD formats, such as 1080/60i, 1080/30p, 1080/24p and 720/60p. Additionally, the AG-AF100 series lets you select 60Hz or 50Hz to support HD systems used around the world. (Actual recording is as follows: 60 Hz = 59.94 Hz, 30 Hz = 29.97 Hz, and 24 Hz = 23.98 Hz.)
1080p Variable Frame Rate Recording
The AG-AF100 series has inherited and further advanced the acclaimed functions of the VariCam, which is widely used in producing movies, TV programs and TV commercials. The new Variable Frame Rate (VFR) function* supports full-HD (1920 x 1080) progressive mode. Armed with a 20-step undercrank (lower frame rate)/overcrank (higher frame rate) function, the AG-AF100 series is capable of producing cinematic images such as a 1/2.5x slow-motion effect and 2x fast motion effect when played in 24p mode.
*Cannot be played in 1080/60p mode. 720p VFR not supported. Class 6 or higher SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card is required for VFR recording.
SDXC Memory Card Supported
The AG-AF100 series supports the new SDXC Memory Card. The SDXC Memory Card is a next generation large-capacity data storage device with upgraded versions of the file system (FAT) and physical specifications of the SDHC Memory Card. Thanks to a large storage capacity, which exceeds the 32 GB limit of the SDHC Memory Card, the SDXC Memory Card can handle large data volumes of 48 GB or 64 GB. It also boasts a high maximum data transfer speed of 22 MB/s* and a wide operating temperature range of -25° to 85°C (-13°F to 185°F). The AG-AF100 series can also use the SDHC and SD Memory Cards.
*The data transfer speed varies depending on the operating system of the SD-compatible devices. The indicated rate was measured at a maximum specification point specified by Panasonic.
Two Card Slots for Relay Recording
The AG-AF100 has two memory card slots. The active slot for recording can be switched, and the internal relay recording function enables continuous recording by automatically changing the recording card media. By using two SDXC Memory Cards, the AG-AF100 can record up to 12 hours in PH mode or 48 hours in HE mode*. Video clips can be copied between cards mounted in the two slots.
*The maximum continuous recording time is 12 hours regardless of the recording mode. A Class 4 or higher SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card is required for recording in PH or HA mode. For other recording modes, use a Class 2 or higher SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card. (The use of a Panasonic SDXC Memory Card is recommended.)
SMPTE Timecode Recording & Synchro Function
The built-in SMPTE timecode generator lets you select the Drop Frame/Non-Drop Frame and Free Run/Rec Run modes and preset. User bits are also provided. Connecting two cameras with a TC preset in/out (video out) connector allows the slave camera, to synchronize with the master camera. 1
Still Image Capture (Still Picture)
A frame can be captured from HD video as a still image equivalent to two megapixels (1920 x 1080). (Note that still images cannot be captured during motion image recording or in Pre-rec mode.)
Camera Metadata Recording
Camera settings for recording operation can be saved as metadata in a clip file. By loading a clip file, the saved settings can be immediately applied.
Diverse Recording Functions
Various other recording functions of the AF100 include Clip Thumbnail Display, Interval Rec, Pre-Rec, Shot Mark, Index, Rec Check, and Last Clip Delete.
FILM CAM Mode for Movie Production
The AG-AF100 series features switchable FILM CAM and VIDEO CAM modes. In FILM CAM mode, the variable frame rate can be used. In addition, the synchro scan and shutter can be indicated and set with the opening angle, instead of seconds, while the sensitivity can be indicated and set in ISO, instead of dB. This makes operation easier for users who are familiar with film camera operation.
Area Focusing and Area Iris Functions (Compatible Lens Only)
Using the newly provided 1,2260,000 function knob (cursor key), you can select a desired area in the frame and set it as a target zone for focusing, iris adjustment and YGET (brightness measurement). This new function facilitates the recording of images in which the subject is not in the center of the frame. In addition to the above three modes, there are two other modes: simultaneous focusing/iris adjustment and simultaneous focusing/YGET. You can select and set any of these five modes.
Focus Assist Function
The AG-AF100 series is equipped with an HD focus assist function. The focus bar indicates the focus level and the focus-in-red display shows the focus area. These two display functions help you to focus more smoothly. A face detection function is also provided, and area auto focus and area auto iris are possible.
Wide ISO Sensitivity (Gain) Setting Range
The sensitivity can be set between ISO 200 and ISO 3200 (in FILM CAM mode), or the gain can be adjusted between 18 dB and -6 dB (in VIDEO CAM mode). The 3-position (L, M, H) gain switch can be assigned with three desired settings for quick switching. The negative gain (-3 dB, -6 dB) is effective for reducing sensitivity and reducing noise.
Slow/Synchro/High-speed Shutter
The shutter speed can be set from a slow 1/2 sec to a fast 1/2000 sec in VIDEO CAM mode. The AG-AF100 series is also equipped with a synchro scan function to allow setting from 10° to 360° in 0.5° steps (including 172.8°) in FILM CAM mode. When combined with the variable frame rate, this function enables detailed settings for a blurred or time-lapse effect.
Simplified Waveform & Vectorscope Display
The AG-AF100 series has waveform and vectorscope display functions as well. A single touch of the WFM key displays the waveform or vectors of the captured video signal on the LCD monitor.
Large Viewfinder and LCD Monitor
The large, high-quality 0.45″ viewfinder, approx. 1,226,000-dot equivalent (852 x 480 x 3 [RGB]) can be tilted up to a 90° angle. The variable angle color monitor features a 3.45″ color LCD panel, approx. 921,000 dots (1920 x 480) with an aspect ratio of 16:9, and facilitates low-angle/high-angle shooting, viewing and menu setting.
Three User Buttons
Three user buttons are provided for one-touch operation of frequently used functions. Two buttons are located on the control panel, and one button is placed at the upper part of the grip handle. Each button can be assigned with any of the following 14 functions: INH, REC CHECK, FACE DETECT, FOCUS ASSIST, CAPTURE, ATW, ATW Lock, SHOT MARK, INDEX, LAST CLIP, BACKLIGHT, SPOTLIGHT, BLACK FADE, WHITE FADE.
SDI (24Psf) Output and Auto Rec
The HD/SD SDI output terminal can output HD signals, including 1080/24Psf, or down-converted SD video signals (selectable from the menu). The terminal also supports Auto Rec to enable backup recording in link with Rec Start/Stop when a Panasonic recorder equipped with the same function, such as the AG-HPG20, is used. Embedded audio is also supported.
*The 24PsF output recording is only possible on the AJ-HPM200 or other third party recorders which support 24PsF input.
HDMI Digital HD Output Terminal
The AG-AF100 series is equipped with a next-generation HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) output terminal for digital transferring of high-quality HD video and audio signals.
XLR Input for Pro-Quality Audio
In addition to the internal high-performance stereo microphone, the AG-AF100 comes equipped with two-channel XLR audio input terminals with a 48V phantom power supply. Each channel can be selected from the internal microphone, external microphone or line input. Large, easy-to-use level dials are also provided.
Down-Converted SD Video Output
The AG-AF100 has an internal down-converter so that it can output SD (480/576) signals from SDI, HDMI or VIDEO OUT. The 16:9/4:3 aspect conversion mode can be selected from three types (side crop, letterbox, squeeze).
Marker/Grid Display
The LCD monitor and viewfinder can display a safety zone marker of 90%, 4:3, 14:9, 1.85:1, 2:1 or 2.35:1, or a 3×3 grid similar to the one in a digital SLR camera.
Professional System Design
Grip: The large grip is easy to hold and is also detachable. The grip allows comfortable use in any shooting situation.
Handle: The large handle is designed for professional use. It has a shoe adapter and threaded holes for mounting various peripheral accessories. The handle is also detachable.
Sensor marker/measuring hook: This makes it easy to measure the distance from the subject.
Functions & Specifications Designed for Professional Use
Scene file: Saves six sets of camera settings and allows for a quick change of settings.
Mode check: Displays a list of the camera settings on the viewfinder and monitor.
Zebra: Select any two levels from among 50% to 105%, in 5% steps.
Color bar: Outputs a color bar signal.
Remote terminal: Enables remote operation of iris, focus, Rec Start/Stop and index functions.
USB 2.0: Type mini-B USB port for connection of a PC in DEVICE mode.
Tally lamps: Provided on the unit’s front and rear.

The AG-HPX500 P2 HD shoulder-mount camcorder delivers a unique combination of high-end features never offered in a camcorder in this genre, including production-quality 2/3″ progressive 3-CCDs, DVCPRO HD quality, multi HD and SD formats, variable frame rates, and four independent audio channels. In addition, the HPX500 offers the outstanding benefits of P2 solid state recording including ultra-fast IT workflow and no-moving-parts reliability, which makes the camera ideal for use in harsh environments.

At only 8.2 pounds, the HPX500 features a high-performance digital signal processor (DSP) with 14-bit A/D conversion and 19-bit processing that handles HD/SD format conversion simultaneously — ensuring spectacular images in all video formats for applications ranging from news acquisition, independent filmmaking, corporate video, sports and much more. To give your productions tremendous flexibility, the HPX500 records in over 32 HD and SD formats. The camcorder records on re-usable, removable P2 cards. With Panasonic’s new 16GB P2 card and HPX500′s four P2 slots, the camera records for 68 minutes of DVCPRO HD; 136 minutes of DVCPRO 50; and 272 minutes of DVCPRO.

• Records in 1080/60i, 50i, 30p, 25p and 24p; in 720/60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p; and in DVCPRO50, DVCPRO and DV

• Excellent low-light performance and a high sensitivity of F10

• Equipped with eight gamma modes, including CineGamma, for different shooting situations

• Like the AJ-HDC27 VariCam camera, variable frame rates in 11 steps between 12p and 60p allows undercranking/overcranking for fast- or slow-motion effects

• Users have immediate access to P2 content with clip thumbnail view and advanced recording features including hot swapping, loop record, shot-marking, pre-record functions (three seconds in HD and seven seconds in SD), one-shot and interval.

• Key interfaces include IEEE 1394, USB 2.0, HD SDI/SDI, genlock, built-in SMPTE time code, independent TC-IN/TC-OUT terminals, composite video, analog component and four audio XLR inputs

• 4-position Neural Density filter

• Low power consumption of 22 watts (when 3.5″ LCD monitor and 1.5″ viewfinder are in use)

• 3.5″ color LCD screen (with image flip function) located at rear of the camera

• Chromatic Aberration Compensation function allows the camera to automatically compensate the registration error that is caused mainly by lens chromatic aberration and minimize the circumjacent blur.

• Remote controllable with AJ-RC10G (via 10-pin RCU terminal)

This compact HD camcorder features an an interchangeable lens system and incorporates three 1/2-inch type “Exmor”™ Full HD CMOS Sensors. With an effective pixel count of 1920 x 1080, it delivers stunning-quality HD images in 1080P, 720P and 1080i HD resolutions.

Frame rate is selectable from interlace and progressive such as 59.94i, 50i, 59.94P, 50P, 29.97P, 25P and native 23.98P recording.

A rich variety of features for creative shooting are incorporated, such as Slow & Quick Motion — over-cranking and under-cranking — selectable gamma curves, slow-shutter, interval recording and Picture Profile™ feature.

Additionally, the PMW-EX3 camcorder offers a convenient remote-control and multi-camera operation capability, allowing use with high-end camera systems.

This camera can be used with VariZooms VZ-Rock-EX remote zoom controller, rented separately.

Product Weight: 4.13 lbs without lens
Dimensions: 9.88″W x 8.25″H x 15.75″D with lens, without projections

This is the first in a new range of professional HD products – called XDCAM EX – which record onto memory-based SxS ExpressCard media. Designed from the ground up to exploit the ultimate high performance of SxS PRO memory cards, the PMW-EX1 combines a state-of-the-art, non-linear XDCAM workflow with the best HD quality yet seen in a compact camcorder. It is also the first handheld camcorder to carry the legendary CineAlta 24P brand with multiple frame rate recording capability such as 59.94i, 50i, and native 23.98P, as well as being 1080i/720P switchable.

The PMW-EX1 is truly an innovation in compact camcorder development. Based on the popular hand-held camcorder design, this new camera improves upon the workflow of existing tape-based camcorders, and its superior picture performance provides camera operators maximum flexibility in whatever style of production is chosen.

This camera can be used with VariZooms VZ-Rock-EX remote zoom controller, rented separately.

Product Weight: 5.25 lbs, camera body
Dimensions: 7.13”W 7”H x 12.38”D without projections

This is the world’s first HDV handheld camcorder that uses 1/3-inch bayonet mount interchangeable lenses. Its advanced features include 1080/24p/30p HDV native progressive recording – in addition to HDMI output – and recording to solid-state memory.

The supplied Memory Recording Unit allows streamlined nonlinear editing workflow, providing HDV/DVCAM/DV file recording on a widely available Compact Flash® solid-state memory card, as well as recording onto HDV tape.

Optional accessories include Sony’s Carl Zeiss VCL-412BWH 12x lens.

Product Weight: Approx. 5.25 lbs with supplied lens, without tape, battery
Dimensions: Approx 6.94″W x 7.81″H x 17.28″L with lens hood, microphone and large eye cup

This camcorder adopts the 1/4-inch HD format – the HDV 1080i specification of the HDV™ format. With three high-resolution 1/3-inch type mega pixel CCDs, it captures and plays back 1080i HD signals while also maintaining DVCAM/DV recording and playback capabilities.

These features allow the HVR-Z1U to be active immediately in current SD systems, while also providing a step-by-step migration to the HD world. Operators can continue to acquire in DVCAM or DV formats, and switch to the HDV format as needed, or acquire in HDV 1080i from the start and use the down-conversion capability as required.

In addition to a unique camcorder body design and numerous camera features, the HVR-Z1U offers maximum operability in the field, as well as opening up a new range of opportunities for creative shooting. Combining these features with the HD picture quality that HDV format provides, the camera becomes an exciting tool for a variety of applications today and tomorrow – from video journalism, wedding and event videography, corporate and training productions, and digital movie-making, up to broadcast newsgathering.

Product Weight: 4.63 lbs, camera only
Dimensions: 14.38L x 6.13″W x 9.75″H

The Sony HVR-V1U camcorder provides affordable HD acquisition by offering true 1080p image capture in a small camcorder form factor, a truly practical solution for independent cinematographers, corporate producers, educational users, small-market broadcasters, and wedding videographers, to name just a few.

Three ClearVid CMOS Sensors, combined with Sony’s 14-bit Enhanced Image Processor, create a camcorder capable of capturing images at 1080p24, 1080p30, and 1080 60i. All video is processed at 1920×1080 at 60p in full 4:2:2 for optimum picture quality. In the 1080 24p mode, the images are scanned at the full 1080 lines, and 2:3 pull down is added and recorded to the 60i HDV tape.

Product Weight: 3.5 lbs, camera only
Dimensions: 5.16″W x 7.24″H x 12.7″D

This is the industry’s first native 1080p one-piece camcorder to capture master-quality high definition video. Featuring three 2/3″ high density 2.2 million pixel CCDs, the camera acquires cinema-quality images in full-raster 1920 x 1080 resolution with 4:2:2 10-bit sampling using the advanced AVC-Intra codec. AVC-Intra, the industry’s most advanced compression technology, is a professional intra-frame video codec with bit rates of 50 and 100Mbps, utilizing the High-10 and High-422 profiles of H.264 respectively. AVC-Intra provides high-quality 10-bit intra-frame encoding in two modes: AVC-Intra 100 for full-raster mastering video quality, and AVC-Intra 50 Mbps for DVCPRO HD quality at half the bit rate, thereby doubling the record time on a P2 card.

Designed for movie, commercial and TV program production, the HPX3000 combines the ultra reliability of P2 HD solid-state recording with high-end features, including six advanced gamma settings, including Film-Rec mode (made popular by the VariCam), film-like shutter controls, intuitive film camera-like operation. It also features a built-in reverse scan that allows unique setups such as mounting the camera upside down or usage of an ultra prime lens or an anamorphic lens adapter to create a 2.35:1 aspect image.

With five 16 GB P2 cards installed, the camera records for up to 100 minutes in AVC-Intra 100 at 1080/24p, 200 minutes in AVC-Intra 50 at 1080/24p, 160 minutes in other AVC-Intra 50 formats, and 80 minutes in other AVC-Intra 100 or DVCPRO HD formats.

Product Weight: 10.5 lbs (main unit only)
Dimensions: 5.44″W x 8.25″H x 12.56″D excluding handle and option cover

This handheld DVCPRO HD camera-recorder is designed to meet emerging needs in HD content production using P2, the cutting-edge memory recording device. The AG-HVX200 records HD, either 1080i or 720p video acquired by a new optical system and high-performance digital signal processor using the broadcasting DVCPRO HD codec. This system achieves a level of image quality that conventional handheld HD cameras simply cannot match, while also supporting HD/SD multi-format and multi-codec recording capabilities.

Product Weight: 5.5 lbs without battery, accessories
Dimensions: 6.4″W x 7.13″H x 15.38″D camera body

This ultra-mobile P2 HD handheld camcorder features full, 4:2:2 independent frame production quality HD and solid-state recording. Based on the AG-HVX200 series, the lighter HPX170 is fully solid state (no DV mechanism), and comes with a host of enhancements including a new 1/3″ progressive 3-CCD imager system, wider Leica Dicomar 13X lens, an HD-SDI interface, and metadata input and management.

The camcorder has two P2 card slots and records in 20 HD and SD formats – from 1080i, 1080p, 720p to 480i. Its newly enhanced 1/3” progressive 16:9 3-CCD imager delivers an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, lower noise/smear, and exceptional low-light performance. Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS) allows for better control over highlights and shadows in run and gun situations. The digital signal processor with 14-bit A/D conversion and 19-bit processing assure the high-quality recordings necessary for top-level production and broadcast.

The HPX170 scans the initial image at a 1080p/60; since all camera processing happens at his level, images maintain the highest quality possible up to the final conversion for compression and recording.