Panasonic's New Native 1080i Studio Camera Offers Outstanding High Definition Resolution and Cost Performance

Panasonic unveils at NAB its newest premium quality, high-definition studio camera ‘ the AK-HC3500. Designed for studio and electronic field production use, this high-end, 2/3″ 2.2-megapixel 3-CCD high-definition camera features enhanced processing and color reproduction functions for full production-grade video capture at a cost of $56,000.
The high-performance AK-HC3500 camera delivers pristine HD images in 1080/59.94i and 1080/50i signals and a newly-developed 38-bit digital signal processor (DSP), 14-bit A/D converter and 12-axis color matrix to assure exceptional image quality. The native 1080i 3-CCD camera features an advanced single-channel transfer system and spatial offset processing for reduced aliasing and higher HD resolution (1100 horizontal lines), and achieves a high sensitivity of F10 at 2000 lx and a low vertical smear (less than -130dB).

The AK-HC3500 is equipped with a host of picture enhancing technologies that provide outstanding image performance necessary for high-end production. Advanced gamma functions such as gamma correction varies in real time to match the contrast in the image, and a new cine gamma system captures the warm tones of film. The camera also offers a skin-tone detail function that allows user to easily adjust sharpness when focusing on people in various environments. Additional features include dynamic detail, programmable gamma, a 12-vector variable masking circuit that separately optimizes saturation and hue, and an EBU color matrix preset that ensures similar color response between high-definition and standard-definition applications for seamless inter-mixing of footage.

When configured for studio use, the 9.9-pound AK-HC3500 can also be mounted onto an optional build-up unit with a “one touch,” cable-free setup; the camera can also be easily removed for shoulder-mount use. Studio-style lenses can be mounted on the build-up unit. The AK-HC3500 also features system-enhancing functions including a wide range of auto-setup functions, a teleprompter and program video as well as data trunk function with two RS422 links for control of pan-tilt systems, lens, or robotic studios. The camera does not require an external frame synchronizer to provide return video from an asynchronous source.

An SD memory card slot is included in the camera head for easy storage and retrieval of user and scene files. The ergonomically-designed AK-HC3500 is equipped with an adjustable shoulder pad and a backlight on the rear operation panel to improved operation in dark settings. The AK-HC3500 has two HD SDI connections as well as HD monitor, teleprompter, and AUX outputs. Input connections include microphone, intercom and Gen-lock (BB/Tri-level Sync). The camera also features dual optical filters (ND: CAP, 100%, 25%, 6.3%, 1.6%; and CC: 3200K, 4300K, 6300K, Cross and Diffusion) and has a low power consumption of 30W (without viewfinder). Available system options will include a build-up unit, down-converter board, camera control unit, remote operation panel and master setup unit.

The AK-HC3500 will be available in fall 2007 at the suggested list price of $56,000.