Sony introduces HDC-P50A multipurpose camera supporting IP transmission

Sony has launched the HDC-P50A, a compact and lightweight multi-purpose camera with a 2/3in 3-chip 4K image sensor that features global shutter function and offers flexibility in terms of installation.

The camera inherits the features and performance of the existing multipurpose HDC-P50. In addition to SDI outputs from the camera body, it also supports IP transmission using SMPTE ST 2110. Furthermore, it can be connected to a camera control unit, enabling flexible operation even in shooting environments where the camera is distant from the control room. It comes with the variable ND filter unit HKC-VND50 (optional).

With its compact and lightweight design, it can be utilised in various scenarios such as shooting in hard-to-reach locations, aerial shots from helicopters, and capturing content with cranes or wire cams.

With its built-in IP transmission features, the HDC-P50A joins Sony’s ever widening Networked Live ecosystem. It can be connected to the camera control network adapter CNA-2 to enable centralised monitoring and remote operations.

The HDC-P50A is equipped with the same 2/3in 3-chip 4K image sensor and prism as the HDC-3500 and HDC-5500, delivering the same colour reproduction performance. This makes it easy to integrate into existing systems.

“We’re seeing an increasing demand for high-quality video production in events such as sports and live performances, as well as a growing need for automation and IP compatibility in live production. With the release of this camera, Sony aims to meet the ever-diversifying needs of the video production industry”, says Anthony Kable, CCS group manager, Sony Australia.

With the optional licence, the HDC-P50A can directly output in IP using SMPTE ST 2110. This enables standalone camera compatibility with AMWA NMOS (Networked Media Open Specifications). It allows for direct IP output without the need for additional hardware and supports IP Tally, making it suitable as a compact camera in IP-based studios. Additionally, by connecting to the HDCE-TX50 IP camera extension adapter or the HDCU-5000 and HDCU-5500 camera control units, the camera delivers IP input/output and high frame rate output.

This camera is compatible with the HDCU-5000 and HDCU-5500 camera control units, as well as the IP camera extension adapter HDCE-TX50. The camera control units and IP extension adapter allow for long-distance connections of up to 10km using single-mode fibre, making it possible to utilise them in shooting locations that are far away from the relay vehicle system, for example in golf broadcasts. When connected to the camera control unit, it enables slow-motion shooting at up to 4 times the speed in 4K and up to 8 times the speed in HD.

A new pair of professional shading monitors, BVM-HX1710 and BVM-HX1710N, combine True Black Reproduction, High Dynamic Range and a peak luminance of 3,000 nits, for live production and critical image viewing and evaluation applications.

Unique to the BVM-HX1710N is SMPTE 2110 IP support, which adds Networked Live compatibility to complement Sony’s ecosystem. Both models provide SDI and HDMI interfaces. The new offerings employ Sony’s latest dual-cell technology, adopted from the company’s flagship BVM-HX3110 critical grading monitor. They also feature accurate colour reproduction, deep blacks ideal for shading, high dynamic range and a wide viewing angle. The monitors are planned to be available in mid-2025.

“Building on the breakthroughs established with Sony’s recent colour grading monitor, the BVM-HX3110, our latest monitors work effortlessly alongside our larger lineup providing a similar user experience, panel and menu structure, while easily colour matching and integrating with Sony’s professional monitor ecosystem to ensure consistency,” said Kable. “Designed with live productions in mind, the BVM-HX1710 and BVM-HX1710N offer comprehensive monitoring solutions in a standard 6U height perfect for rack mounting. The monitors offer a standard tool kit of powerful on-board features, as well as a range of options for increased versatility and future planning.”

Standard features of the new models include real-time onboard scopes, multi-screen modes, interlace, and tetrahedral LUT (Look Up Table) processing.

An optional new monitor control unit for multi-monitor control, the BVMK-R10, is also expected to be released in late 2024. It features illuminated buttons and a small menu screen to accommodate use in trucks and studios. In addition, a new stand kit, protection panel, mounting brackets and an extension cable, planned for mid-2025, will enable integration with the latest monitors.