SONY UNVEILS MULTI-PURPOSE COMPACT HD CAMERA WITH OPTICAL FIBER INTERFACE
New HDC-X310 Model Enables Longer Cable Runs and Multiple Plug-in Output Boards for More Connectivity Options
PARK RIDGE, N.J., Feb. 15, 2005 - Building on the success of the HDC-X300 compact high definition camera, Sony is introducing the HDC-X310 multi-purpose HD camera. The new model adds an optical fiber interface that allows cable runs to be increased more than 10 times to a maximum of 3,300 feet. à
The new camera can be used in a range of applications including high-definition point-of-view (POV) acquisition in stadiums, conference rooms, houses of worship, or schools.
The addition of the HFU-X310 interface unit significantly expands the possible applications of either camera.
An array of optional interface cards allow for inexpensive XGA monitoring, SD signal output to integrate with an existing SD system, and even i.LINK ® IEEE-1394 (HDV) digital interface connection for HD recording on Sony's newly introduced professional HDV system.
"The success of the HDC-X300 revealed an important niche in the emerging HD market for flexible and multi-purpose products," said Bob Ott, vice president of professional video and audio products in Sony Electronics' Broadcast and Production Systems Division. "These two HD compact cameras fill that niche and will play a key role in the transition to HD, creating an enormous range of possibilities for working alongside our high-end HD cameras or within existing SD installations."
The new HDC-X310 camera retains the core components and features of the HDC-X300. Both cameras use three 1.5-megapixel, half-inch CCDs and feature a range of scanning modes, including 59.94i, 50i, 29.97psf, 25psf and 23.976psf, with 2:3 pulldown. With a minimum illumination of 0.003 lux with slow shutter, the HDC-X300/X310 feature interchangeable lenses and slow shutter functionality (one to 64 frames).
Weighing less than three pounds with no lens, both cameras consume less than 20 watts of power. The HDC-X300/X310 cameras also share an extensive line of accessories.
The HFU-X310 interface unit is a 2U high, half-rack wide unit with optical fiber I/O, as well as HD-SDI, SD/HD genlock and tally inputs. It also provides an 8-pin input for RM-B750/RCP-750 remote control units. The HFU-X310 allows for up to two optional interface cards providing additional HD, SD, XGA and i.LINK (HDV) connectivity.
The HKC-SV1 Servo Filter is a servo unit for the optical neutral density filter. In addition to the original 19x VCL-719BXS half-inch HD lens originally offered with the HDC-X300, a new 18x is also being added as an option.
The HDC-X310 compact high definition camera is planned to be available in May at a suggested list price of $17,000. The HFU-X310 interface unit is also planned to be available in May at a suggested list price of $3,500.
Additional prices and availability include:
HFBK-HD1 HD and HFBK-SD1 SD optional interface cards—planned to be available in May at a suggested list price of $2,000 each.
HFBK-XG1 XGA interface card— planned to be available in July at a suggested list price of $2,000.
HFBK-TS1 i.LINK interface card— planned to be available in September at a suggested list price of $2,500.
HKC-SV1 Servo Filter— planned to be available in May at a suggested list price of $3,000.
Editor's Note: For more detailed product information, your readers can visit www.sony.com/professional. To find the nearest Sony authorized dealer or service location, readers can call 1-800-686-SONY. For additional press information and digital images, please visit Sony Electronics' news and information web site at www.sony.com/news.
