Sony enhances 4K HDR live production workflows with new system camera

At NAB 2019, Sony is introducing the latest addition to its HDC family of 4K live camera systems: the HDC-5500, a new multi-format live camera capable of direct 4K signal output in 12G-SDI. It has the world’s first 2/3-inch 4K global shutter with three CMOS sensors that ensure superb image quality in HD, 4K and HDR live production. Furthermore, optional software will be available, offering high frame rates up to 4K 2x and HD 8x.*
*HZC-HFR50 is currently under development and scheduled to launch in summer 2019
Launching alongside the HDC-5500 at NAB 2019, as part of the extended HDC family, is the HDCU-5500. The HDCU-5500 is a half rack sized new Camera Control Unit (CCU) used in conjunction with the HDC-5500. This CCU provides both 12G-SDI, 4K and IP interfaces, SMPTE ST 2110 and NMOS IS-04/05 through optional hardware.*
*Both the HZCU-UHD35 for 12G-SDI 4K output interface and the HKCU-SFP50 for IP interface, will be available in May
HDC-5500 camera system
The HDC-5500 camera system produces a 4K signal directly from its 12G-SDI output. By adding the HKC-WL50, an optional wireless side panel, the HDC-5500 can operate as a wireless camera as well as being used in conjunction with a camera stabiliser.
Using newly-developed signal processing technology between the camera and CCU, the Ultra High Bitrate (UHB) transmission enables the broadcast of two camera signals simultaneously by a single fibre cable without a baseband processor unit - increasing the operational flexibility of the system camera. The combination of both units offers UHB transmission which transmits 2 channels of 4K signals at a time. The 4K TRUNK feature efficiently transmits two sources from HDC-5500 to CCU; one source from the “host” HDC-5500 itself and a second camera connected to the HDC-5500’s 12G-SDI input. In addition, input from the 4K PROMPTER is transmitted from the HDCU-5500 to camera head also using the UHB transmission.
The HDC-5500 can accommodate an interchangeable side panel which can ensure backward compatibility with current HD camera control units, such as the HDCU-2500/3100 series.
“The HDC-5500 provides industry-leading flexibility for live production,” said Rob Willox, Director of Marketing, Sony Electronics. “We’ve listened carefully to the requirements of this rapidly-evolving market and have provided new capabilities for today’s 3G systems, and tomorrow’s IP-based and HDR requirements. We’ve elegantly addressed production needs such as 4K, HDR, HFR, IP, digital triax and wireless, and are providing our customers with a flexible and cost-effective way to upgrade their current systems to a specialised toolset. Our continuous endeavour to enhance our HDC series is to enable our customers to reach even higher levels of creativity and efficiency.”
Portable licence
Sony is also introducing a portable licencing option for the HDC-5500 and HDC-P50 POV cameras. Portable licences are not tied to a specific device like a permanent licence. Instead, portable licences can be transferred dynamically between HDC-5500 and/or HDC-P50 cameras. Customers, such as OB and rental companies, can save on costs and logistics as software capabilities can be downloaded and installed on site, rather than shipping camera components. Sony’s portable licences will be available as a yearly subscription.*
*Both the HZC-UHD50P for 4K output and HZC-HFR50P for High Frame Rate portable licences will be available in May
Further expanding the HDC family, Sony is also launching the HDCU-3500. This is a half rack sized camera control unit used in conjunction with the HDC-3100, and is also compatible with HDC-2000 series. The HDCU-3500 also features 12G-SDI, 4K and IP interfaces, SMPTE ST 2110 and NMOS IS-04/05 through optional hardware.*
*Both the HZCU-UHD35 for 12G-SDI 4K output interface and HKCU-SFP50 for IP interface, will be available in May
The new HDCU-3500 and HDCU-5500 camera control units will have an optional on-board recording capability that uses a built-in memory feature.* This innovative recording option will provide new options and flexibility for live production workflows.
*The release timing for this feature is to be announced at a later date