Panasonic IBC 2019

AJ-CX4000
Panasonic will showcase its new AJ-CX4000GJ broadcast shoulder mount 4K camera at IBC 2019. The product, which will launch in December 2019, follows the handheld-type AG-CX350 as the new “CX” Series lineup of 4K camera recorders . The AJ-CX4000GJ is a B4 lens mount, interchangeable lens camera recorder that is typical for broadcast use. It is equipped with a large-sized 11MP image sensor and enables high quality 4K (UHD) image recording with a horizontal resolution of 2000 TV lines. It is also compatible with HDR, compliant with BT.2100 and BT.2020.  The high efficiency and high image quality HEVC codec is adopted for the recording of 4K images. Long time recording with 4K/10-bit high image quality is possible whilst keeping bitrate and storage size under control. The high speed transfer and reliable expressP2 card or the low running cost microP2 card (SDXC memory card can also be used) can be selected for recording media. It also supports the recording of the AVC-ULTRA codec (HD) from the conventional P2HD Series. UHD 60p/50p 10-bit 4:2:2 output via a 12G-SDI output is also possible. Additionally, it offers an innovative network solution. Images can be distributed in HD mode to internet live streaming services using the Direct Streaming function, compatible with RTSP, RTMP and RTMPS. The LAN terminal, equipped with a lock mechanism (1000BASE-T compatibility), supports NDI|HX connectivity. Transmission and camera control is possible with an IP connection and can be linked to a recording/distribution system combined with Panasonic’s remote camera. For sports events and documentary recording, this camera offers the high-quality 4K images that are required for the broadcasting industry.

AV-UHS500
A new 12G-SDI compatible compact 4K Live Switcher, the AV-UHS500, will also be on display at IBC 2019. The 4K Live Switcher demonstrates outstanding live video production performance in the field for use in a variety of applications, such as event staging, broadcast at stations and OB vans, lectures at universities and conference halls. The AV-UHS500, planned for release in February 2020, represents the next step in switching technology from Panasonic, which has rapidly gained a reputation for live compact switchers in broadcast studios, live entertainment and sport events. The AV-UHS500 offers a high level of functionality in its range. In addition to providing 4K/3G/HD multi format support, the device allows the same number of HD inputs and outputs to be maintained even when operating in 4K. Five optional boards have also been developed to meet customer needs. For improved flexibility and usability, additional optional boards can be freely installed to increase the number of inputs to as many as 16 SDI or 8 HDMI, ensuring smooth operation at big events with a large number of cameras. The unit is equipped with 5 keyers, including 2ch of chroma-key and 2ch of PiP, to enable a variety of production effects. The switcher is also equipped with an up/down conversion function, HDR/SDR conversion function and ITU-R BT.2020/BT.709 conversion function. These enable the flexibility to select video output as needed in environments where there are a variety of formats being used.

AK-SHB800
Panasonic is also showcasing its new 8K ROI (Region of Interest) multi camera system that promises to change the landscape of broadcast production. This system includes a 8K multi-purpose camera (AK-SHB800), a processing unit (AK-SHU800) and framing control software (AK-SFC101) and goes on sale in Europe later this month at an RRP of 130.000 EUR. The 8K ROI system is able to produce 4 different HD signals or virtual cameras from a single 8K camera system. The 8K sensor produces a wide angle, large canvas, out of which four separate crops can be generated out of the processing unit. The system improves operational efficiency, reducing operating costs on a multitude of potential production applications such as sports broadcasting, staging and studio applications. Featuring automated picture correction technology, the camera system also ensures that any distorted images are corrected and cropped with a natural, cut out, Full HD image from within the main 8K image. Multiple cameras can be integrated across the system, with a main operator controlled camera linked to further sub-cameras, which can also be pre-programmed prior to the event. As a result, a single operator can control multiple cameras each with several pre-set crops for versatile, yet cost effective multi-camera operation.

AW-RP60
The brand new AW-RP60 Remote Camera Controller unit will also be demonstrated. Equipped with a large LCD to display a GUI menu screen with clear visibility and an improved joystick for smoother control, this controller is compatible with all current Panasonic PTZ models. Thanks to the improved GUI, now all important information about the cameras, such as iris, zoom and focus can be seen at all times directly on the screen. The AW-RP60 is also capable of supporting up to 200 cameras in 20 groups, manages 100 presets and comes with PoE support allowing for an easy integration. It will be available from October onwards.