Latest Panasonic remote HD camera cuts size and weight by 60%
The Panasonic AW-HE120 is a new HD integrated remote video camera with a pan-tilt head and a compact design approximately 60% both smaller and lighter than its predecessor, the AW-HE100 while offering a more powerful 20X zoom lens and a 2.2 megapixel U.L.T. 3-MOS image capture system with support for Full HD video.
In addition to preserving compatibility with remote controllers designed for earlier remote camera systems, the AW-HE120 supports remote operation via an IP connection as well. The camera is designed to be easy to install and is available in two colors, pearl white and black metallic, to match a variety of usage situations.
The AW-HE120 has a 20X zoom lens that covers an extended range of focal distances, from wide-angle to ultra-telephoto—32.1 mm at the wide-angle end to 642 mm at the telephoto end (both figures converted to 35 mm equivalents). This optical zoom lens is also supplemented by a 10× digital zoom function. The built-in four-position ND filter (clear, 1/4, 1/16, 1/64) allows adjustment of the exposure.
The imaging elements, also used in Panasonic’s P2 HD series products, are 1/3-type 2.2-megapixel U.L.T. MOS sensors that enable Full HD picture quality and a three-MOS configuration is used to ensure color fidelity. Multiple HD and SD video signal formats are supported: 1080/59.94i, 1080/50i, 720/59.94p, 720/50p, 480/60i and 576/50i. SDI (HD/SD, BNC), analog component (D-SUB 15P) and HDMI outputs are provided. Selecting HDMI output enables the higher picture quality of 1080/59.94p and 1080/50p.
The AW-HE120 is equipped with a high-performance Digital Signal Processor (DSP) used in Panasonic broadcast camcorders. It processes fine image rendering such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions with exceptional precision. It achieves a low power consumption of 21 W, approximately 48% less than the previous model. It also features a Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS) function that minimizes blocked shadows and blown highlights in scene with mixed contrast. A gamma curve and knee slope are estimated to match the contrast of each pixel, and are applied in real time. The images that result are enhanced by a visually wide dynamic range. .
In spite of the compact design, the pan-tilt head covers a wide range with a pan of ±175° and a tilt of –30° to 210°. The newly developed pan-tilt driver combines a high level of responsiveness with very exact static precision. An NC (Noise Criteria) 35 level of quietness is maintained. The AW-RP50 remote controller, available separately, allows the recording of up to 100 preset positions.
The new AW-HE120 will be available in winter, with a suggested list price of under $10,000.