Here is the complete batch of Panasonic's Pre-NAB new product press releases.

Click the various image thumbnails to see their large, full-size versions.

Click the links below to go directly to a particular press release.

AG-HPX300 P2 HD Camcorder (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011305-post2.html)

AG-HPG20 P2 HD Portable Recorder (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011291-post3.html)

AJ-PCD35 P2 Memory Drive (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011292-post4.html)

AJ-HRW10 P2 Rapid Writer (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011294-post5.html)

AW-HE870 3CCD HD Convertible Camera (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011296-post6.html)

BT-LH1710 HD LCD Production Monitor (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011297-post7.html)

BT-LH2550 HD LCD Production Monitor (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011299-post8.html)

AJ-CVF100G LCOS Color Viewfinder (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011300-post9.html)

AG-HMR10 / AG-HCK10 AVCCAM Compact HD Recorder and Camera Head (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/1011302-post10.html)

About P2 HD

P2 HD all solid-state products offer high definition recording without the mechanical wear and environmental limitations of tape, hard disk, and optical disc based systems. P2 HD ensures the highest reliability, especially in challenging conditions of extreme temperature range, shock, and vibration. P2 HD products provide a significant reduction in maintenance costs, longer useful product life, and immediate access to recorded video (no need to digitize, ingest or create proxy video files) and metadata. P2 HD provides the reliability of solid-state production; the immediate connectivity to existing IT infrastructures; the speed, ease of use and portability of P2 cards; and the interoperability with leading NLE systems.

About Panasonic Broadcast

Panasonic Broadcast & Television Systems Co. is a leading supplier of broadcast and professional video products and systems. Panasonic Broadcast is a unit company of Panasonic Corporation of North America. The company is the North American headquarters of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (NYSE: MC) of Japan, and the hub of its U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. For more information on Panasonic Broadcast products, access the company’s web site at Professional Video Cameras and equipment from Panasonic (http://www.panasonic.com/broadcast).

PANASONIC DEBUTS AG-HPX300 P2 HD CAMCORDER,
WORLD’S FIRST AFFORDABLE 10-BIT, 4:2:2 CAMERA

Innovative Interchangeable Lens, Shoulder-Mount Design Teams with Native 2.2-Megapixel Imagers, AVC-Intra Recording, and 17X lens; Available in March for $10,700 List Price

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2009) – Panasonic unveiled the world’s first affordable professional camcorder with 10-bit, 4:2:2, individual frame recording and native 2.2-megapixel imagers. Incorporating an innovative, low profile shoulder mounted design, the 1/3” AG-HPX300 P2 HD camcorder offers the flexibility of interchangeable lens but comes standard with a 17x HD Fujinon lens.

The HPX300 imager incorporates advanced 1/3" 2.2-megapixel 3-MOS technology to acquire full native resolution HD images. With a redesigned optical block and a high-precision prism bonding technology, these advanced 3-MOS imagers provide exceptional image quality while minimizing any flare and chromatic aberration. A new 20-bit digital signal processor (DSP) also enhances the HPX300’s image performance. The solid-state 1/3" HPX300 offers the security of a five-year warranty program (1 year + 4 additional years with registration), ultimate quality and flexibility in an affordable, full-size HD camcorder.

"The HPX300 establishes a new benchmark for performance within this price range" said Robert Harris, Vice President, Panasonic Broadcast. "It not only captures full native 1920 x 1080 HD resolution, but it allows professionals to record at a quality level that no other camcorder in this price range can equal. Without the compromise of 8-bit, long GOP, 4:2:0 recording, the HPX300 provides master-quality, 10-bit, 4:2:2 individual frame capture using our award winning AVC-Intra codec. Video professionals will immediately realize that this camera is in a field of its own."

Delivering the impressive quality of AVC-Intra 100 and AVC-Intra 50, the HPX300 also records individual frame images in 100Mbps DVCPRO HD and in standard definition in DVCPRO50, DVCPRO and DV, which provides faster workflow and less degradation in multigenerational rendering. The AVC-Intra 100 and 50 codecs let you record in a choice of HD video formats: 1080/59.94i, 1080/29.97P and 1080/23.98P (native 24p/30p), and 720P with variable frames in 23.98pN, 29.97pN and 59.94P. In DVCPRO HD, it records 1080/59.94i, 1080/29.97P, 1080/23.98P, 1080/23.98pA, 720/59.94P, 720/29.97P, 720/29.97pN and 720/23.98pN. In DVCPRO50/25 and DV, it records 480/59.94i, 480/29.97p, 480/23.98p and 480/23.98pA. The 1080P and 480P signals are recorded with 2:3 pull down (23.98p) or 2:3:3:2 advanced mode (23.98pA). The camera also supports 1080/23.98PsF output (via HD-SDI) for use in high-end movie production. The output of the camera can be set for down conversion or cross-conversion with letterbox, 4:3 crop or squeeze.

The HPX300’s interchangeable lens design gives video pros the flexibility to utilize a wide range of broadcast and production HD lenses. The camera is equipped with numerous popular features including Chromatic Aberration Compensation (CAC) to maximize lens performance, built-in scan reverse for use with film lenses, a Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS) function to help compensate for wide variations in lighting, a waveform and vector scope display, and two focus assist functions – a picture expanding function and a focus bar.
For added creative flexibility, the HPX300 also has variable frame rate functions for creating fast and slow motion effects. In 720p mode, a user can choose between 20 variable frame steps between 12p and 60p. Because the HPX300 records images at the frame rate set in the camera, users can preview the speed effect right on the spot, without using a frame rate converter. When working with the camera’s advanced 1080/480 24pA mode, users have the option of using 2:3:3:2 pull down, which allows most nonlinear editing systems to easily extract 24 frames on ingest.

Equipped with two P2 card slots and new 64GB P2 cards, the HPX300 offers recording capacity that exceeds that of tape based camcorders. The HPX300 offers all the benefits of a faster, file-based P2 HD workflow including recording features like instant recording startup, clip thumbnail view for immediate access to video content on all cards, and a host of time-saving recording modes including continuous recording, card slot selection, hot swapping, loop, pre-record (three seconds in HD and seven seconds in SD), one-shot and interval recording. The camera also features an SD memory card slot for saving or loading scene files and user settings, or proxy data (optional AJ-YAX800G Proxy board required).

The HPX300 has advanced gamma functions offering six shooting scenarios, including the popular Cine-Like Gamma modes found on Panasonic’s popular VariCam camera, which gives recordings the characteristic warm tone of film recordings. A scene file dial on the side of the camera provides quick access to six pre-loaded settings; the dial can also be programmed with user-defined settings.

The camera’s interfaces include two SDI outputs (switchable between HD/SD-SDI output), video output (down-converted SD video only), IEEE 1394, USB 2.0 interface compatible with host mode, time code input/output (with built-in SMPTE time code generator/reader). Additional features include, Genlock input, 4-position ND optical filter controls, DC power input, color bar switch, three XLR audio jacks (one in the front, two on the rear), wireless microphone slot (2-channel UniSlot wireless receiver compatible) and programmable user buttons.

The HPX300 can also be used as a studio camera. It is equipped with a remote control terminal (RCU) for use with the optional AJ-RC10G Remote Control Unit and compatible studio remote control systems. Later this year, Panasonic will release a customized studio configuration system for the HPX300, which will include the AG-BS300 base station, AG-EC4 extension control unit (ECU) and AG-CA300 remote control camera adapter.

At eight pounds, the HPX300’s lightweight, well-balanced design and ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to use. All operation switches, volume controls and card slots are on the left side for easier operation. The HPX300 is equipped with a widescreen 1,226,000-dot LCOS color viewfinder and a widescreen 921,000-dot 3.2-inch LCD color monitor. Its power consumption is low at only 18 watts.

The HPX300 will be available in March at a suggested list price of $10,700. The studio configuration add-on package for the HPX300 will be available later this year for less than $10,000.

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF ITS AG-HPG20 P2 HD
PORTABLE RECORDER/ PLAYER FEATURING AVC-INTRA RECORDING

New P2 HD Recorder Makes 10-Bit, 4:2:2 Master-Quality Recording More Portable and Affordable

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2009) – Panasonic has announced the availability of the new solid-state AG-HPG20 P2 Portable recorder/player with AVC-Intra capability. Offering greater P2 workflow flexibility, a bridge to higher recording quality or tapeless workflow for older HD-SDI equipped cameras, and a solution to a multitude of other high quality recording challenges, the HPG20 dramatically reduces the cost for these capabilities.

With AVC-Intra, DVCPRO HD/50/25 and DV compatibility, the HPG20 P2 Portable is a 10-bit, 4:2:2 master-quality deck for fast, file-based recording, and with removable solid-state cards, it offers recording times that exceed those of tape or optical disc based products.

Featuring built-in 10-bit AVC-Intra recording/playback, the HPG20 P2 Portable makes 10-bit, 4:2:2 master-quality video more affordable and portable. This extraordinary workflow tool allows users to play back and review P2 cards on its 3.5-inch LCD screen, manage clip files and metadata, record content from a wide range of Panasonic and non-Panasonic cameras via its HD-SDI input, and backup data onto hard disk drives. With two P2 card slots and battery operation, the P2 Portable’s rugged, solid-state design holds up to the demands of field production, yet it is small and light enough (2.5 lbs) for easy transportation.

The HPG20 supports a wide range of high definition and standard definition recording formats. Recording and playback formats include 1080/60i, 1080/50i, 720/60p, 720/50p in the AVC-Intra and DVCPRO HD 4:2:2, independent frame codecs; as well as 480/60i, 576/50i in DVCPRO50, DVCPRO and DV. The unit plays back HD/SD content automatically (no need to change settings) and can operate in 50Hz or 60Hz. For added versatility, the P2 Portable supports up-, down- and cross-conversion for HD or SD transmission. Additionally, the HPG20 offers simplified “confidence” playback of P2 video clips stored on a hard disk drive.

The unit’s HD/SD-SDI and IEEE 1394 input interfaces open the door for endless applications in HD or SD production. The P2 Portable can be connected to DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO50, DVCPRO and DV tape-based camcorders via IEEE 1394 for solid-state back-up recording in the field. It also accepts and records signals (with metadata) from any camera with an HD-SDI output, making it an essential tool for broadcast field applications such as news crew pool feeds. Additionally, there is 4:3 marker that can be displayed over incoming video for safe-shooting requirements.

The P2 Portable can playback to large HD production monitors or transfer uncompressed content to HD-SDI equipped decks, post production systems and storage networks. When connected to a laptop’s IEEE 1394 output, the portable recorder serves as a transcoder to HD-SDI-equipped monitors for real-time playback from the timeline. Using the HPG20’s USB slot (in Host mode), users can easily transfer content to a low-cost USB hard drive for a seamless, IT-based deliverable for clients. Versatile playback functions include format auto playback, slow-motion and double-speed playback, single-clip playback and repeat playback.

The HPG20 P2 Portable features a host of time-saving P2 clip management functions. In addition to viewing recorded files in clip thumbnail view, users can copy or transfer select clips from one P2 card to another, copy selected clips from a hard disk drive onto a P2 card, shot mark specific clips, edit a clip’s metadata (support for multiple languages included), or save a text memo to individual clips when recording or previewing. P2 cards can also be “hot-swapped” for continuous recording. Additional features include an SD card slot for loading metadata or saving user files, and helpful recording functions such as waveform/vectorscope display, loop record and auto record commands that accompany the HD-SDI signal.

Eight-channel audio input/output, an internal speaker and headphone (M3 mini) jacks are also included. For ease of use, the unit offers three assignable user buttons.

When using two 64GB P2 cards in the P2 Portable’s two card slots, the unit can record for 128 minutes in AVC-Intra 100 or DVCPRO HD, 256 minutes in AVC-Intra 50 or DVCPRO50, or 512 minutes in DVCPRO.

The AG-HPG20 P2 Portable will be available in March at a suggested list price of $5,295, and will offer a 5-year limited warranty program. An optional mounting bracket, P2-Mount, will also be available (for mounting the P2 Portable onto large cameras) at a suggested list price of $190.

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF AJ-PCD35 P2 MEMORY DRIVE
WITH PCI EXPRESS INTERFACE FOR SUPER FAST CONTENT TRANSFERS

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2008) – Panasonic announced the availability of its new AJ-PCD35, a new five-slot P2 solid-state memory drive with a PCI Express (PCIe) interface. Joining Panasonic’s growing line of advanced P2 workflow tools, the PCD35 can increase transfer speed of P2 content to a maximum of 1.0Gps to desktop computer systems.

An essential workflow tool for file-based P2 production, the PCD35 P2 memory card drive provides professionals with a faster, more convenient file transfer workflow with the latest generation of computers equipped with a PCIe bus. It can transfer data from up to five P2 cards simultaneously, making content immediately available to nonlinear editing systems and servers.

With the use of the PCIe interface, the PCD35 offers increased transfer rates of maximum 1.0Gbps with multiple 64GB P2 cards and up to 800 Mbps off a single 64GB P2 card.* Because the drive supports all P2 card sizes, P2 formats and frame rates, storage capacity and compatibility is a non-issue, unlike many fixed format systems such as optical disc and tape. With five 64GB P2 cards inserted, the PCD35 can offer immediate access to more than 20 hours of DVCPRO, 10 hours DVCPRO50 or AVC-Intra 50, or more than five hours of DVCPRO HD or AVC-Intra 100 content.

The PCD35 plugs easily into a tower computer’s PCIe card slots, making it well suited for flexible playback or editing. It can also be used as an external device. The drive is compatible with Windows XP, Vista and Mac OS X and comes with an AC adaptor.

The PCD35 is available now at a suggested list price of $2,190.

Panasonic’s line of P2 workflow products also includes the AJ-PCD20, a five-slot P2 drive with USB 2.0/ IEEE1394b interface, AJ-PCS060G P2 store drive, the compact AG-HPG10 P2 Gear and the AVC-Intra compatible AG-HPG20 P2 Portable recorders, and the powerful AJ-HPM110 P2 Mobile HD recorder/player.

P2 HD all solid-state products offer high definition recording without the mechanical wear and environmental limitations of tape, hard disk, and optical disc based systems. P2 HD ensures the highest reliability, especially in challenging conditions of extreme temperature range, shock, and vibration. P2 HD products provide a significant reduction in maintenance costs, longer useful product life, and immediate access to recorded video (no need to digitize, ingest or create proxy video files) and metadata. P2 HD provides the reliability of solid-state production; the immediate connectivity to existing IT infrastructures; the speed, ease of use and portability of P2 cards; and the interoperability with leading NLE systems.

PANASONIC DEBUTS AJ-HRW10 RAPID WRITER P2 WORKFLOW TOOL

Offers Convenience of P2 Card Content Offload and Copying to RAID Drives

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2009) – Panasonic has introduced the AJ-HRW10 P2 Rapid Writer, a portable workflow tool that dramatically simplifies access to P2 content and incorporates the in-demand feature of RAID 1 mirroring support.

With slots for two 3.5-inch removable hard disk drives (HDDs) and a built-in AJ-PCD35 five-slot P2 memory drive, the P2 Rapid Writer can automatically transfer data from up to five P2 cards. With the touch of a button, it can copy material simultaneously to two separate RAID drives, putting this critical back-up function well within the grasp of even the least technical members of a production team.

The HRW10 features a 5-inch LCD screen with simple touch-screen operation. It provides clip preview (Play/Pause/FWD/REW) for confidence playback; clip sort and filter; P2 thumbnail display, P2 metadata display and editing. The P2 Rapid Writer supports the master quality AVC-Intra (100/50) and DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO50, DVCPRO and DV recording formats.

Other valuable features include a G-bit Ethernet port to move content rapidly across an IT network, and an internal speaker and headphone jack for audio playback. The P2 Rapid Writer requires 12V DC power. Battery operation is possible with a separate power supply.

The HRW10 P2 Rapid Writer will be available in April at a suggested list price of $9,995. Removable hard disk drives, power supply, rack enclosures and rack slides will be sold separately. Minimum disk drive specifications are two 3.5-inch drives, at least 7200 RPM speed or higher, with serial ATA-II connections.

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES VERSATILE AW-HE870
2/3-INCH 3-CCD HIGH DEFINITION CONVERTIBLE CAMERA

Extensive Compatibility with Existing Control Systems and
Lenses Helps Customers Make an Easy Transition to HD

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2009) – Panasonic has introduced the AW-HE870N, a cost-effective, versatile 2/3” HD/SD convertible camera that supports 1080i/720p/480i image acquisition. Delivering affordable image capture for a wide range of applications and lighting conditions, the HE870 is compatible with most 2/3-inch motor drive zoom lenses, all current Panasonic Broadcast pan/tilts and controllers, and many third-party systems.

The versatility, high video quality, and cost effectiveness of the HE870 makes it ideal for use in education, government, houses of worship and other application areas. The HE870 is the latest addition to Panasonic’s best-selling lineup of HD convertible cameras, which includes the native 1080i resolution AK-HC1800N and the high-performance AK-HC1500G.

The HE870’s new high-performance 38-bit digital signal processor (DSP) and 14-bit A/D converter deliver super-sharp images even in difficult lighting. Panasonic’s advanced spatial-offset and image processing technologies provide high quality, high definition imaging, and 12-axis color correction allows for precise control and matching of HD video.

The multi-format HE870 provides switchable HD/SD component output at 1080/59.94i, 720/59.94p, or 480/59.94i, along with full-time SD composite output. An optional AW-HHD870 output card adds two distributed SDI outputs (HD/SD switchable), and a Zoom/Focus control port.

The HE870’s other features include: flesh tone noise suppression, shutter speeds ranging from 1/100 to 1/10000 second, a Syncro-Scan (61.19 Hz to 1466 Hz) feature that eliminates flicker when shooting a television or computer monitor, genlock, DC 12V operation, and a low power consumption of 18 watts.

The compact, 2.6-pound AW-HE870 is the same size as Panasonic’s best-selling AW-E860 SD camera and employs the same connectors and an updated version of the remote control software. Because of this, the HE870 offers a simple upgrade path to HD for thousands of Panasonic SD camera customers.

The HE870 is also compatible with Panasonic’s comprehensive line of high performance indoor/outdoor pan-tilt systems, including the AW-RP655, AW-RP555, AW-RP400, AW-CB400 controllers, and the AW-H360, AW-PH400, AW-PH405 and AW-PH650 pan/tilt heads. Previously installed control systems may require a firmware upgrade to access all of the new camera’s features.

The AW-HE870 will have a suggested list price of $11,500. The optional AW-HHD870 HD/SD-SDI output card will have a suggested list price of $1,995.

PANASONIC SHIPS NEW 17" BT-LH1710 HD LCD PRODUCTION MONITOR

Available Now, 17" Monitor Incorporates New IPS Panel
Technology, Improved Contrast, Black Levels and User Functions

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2009) – Panasonic announced the immediate availability of its new BT-LH1710 LCD HD/SD production monitor. Building on its predecessor, the BT-LH1700W, the next-generation LH1710 offers enhanced image performance, excellent motion response and adds a wider range of production tools for advanced HD monitoring at an affordable cost.

With a new 1280 x 768 In-Plane Switching (IPS) panel, the LH1710 incorporates the latest panel and image processing technology to deliver higher contrast, improved black level performance and more functionality. The monitor utilizes a newly-designed 10-bit image processing circuit that reproduces color with increased accuracy and detail and has a 3D look-up table (LUT) that calibrates the panel to reproduce accurate images according to the specific color standard selected.

In addition to its superior image processing performance, the LH1710 offers a host of invaluable monitoring tools, including built-in waveform monitor and vectorscope that display all lines. Other display functions include pixel-to-pixel display, standard markers, blue-only and cross hatch overlay. Enhanced audio functions include built-in embedded audio support and display of up to eight channels of audio level meters (can be shown as 2-channel, 4-channel, 8-channel, or shut off completely). The monitor displays a variety of time code information ranging from Time Code (HD-SDI) LTC (Linear Time Code), VITC (Vertical Interval Time Code), LUB (User Bits among Linear Time Code), VUB (User Bits among Vertical Time Code). It has a wide 176° horizontal and vertical viewing angle.

The LH1710 also has a Cine-gamma Film-Rec compensation function for compatible use with cameras such as the new AJ-HPX3700 and AJ-HPX2700 P2 HD VariCam camcorders and the tape-based AJ-HDC27 VariCam HD Cinema Camera.

The versatile monitor comes with a wide range of professional inputs and outputs, include two auto-switching SDI (HD/SD) inputs (with switched output), DVI-D input, component, composite, RGB, audio and a headphone jack. Additional standard features include RS-232C and GPI remote control terminals, tally indicators (Red/ Green/ Amber) on the front panel, on-board stereo speakers, closed caption and five assignable function buttons for quick and easy access to features.

The production-tough LH1710 has a durable, die-cast aluminum frame and operates without a cooling fan for noise-free performance. The low-power-consuming monitor runs on AC or DC power (12V) for added flexibility, comes standard with a desk stand and is VESA-mount compatible.

The LH1710 is available now at a suggested list price of $3,750.

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES NEW HIGH-RESOLUTION BT-LH2550
PREMIUM-QUALITY 25.5" LCD HD PRODUCTION MONITOR

1920 x 1200 Resolution Monitor Offers Wider Color Gamut with Six Color Settings,
Ideal for Print, Graphics as well as Broadcast and Production Environments

SECAUCUS, NJ (January 29, 2009) – Panasonic announced the immediate availability of its new high-resolution BT-LH2550 LCD HD production monitor. With a full 1920 x 1200-pixel In-Plane Switching (IPS) panel, the 25.5" LCD production monitor features an expanded color gamut, exceeding the NTSC standard, to ensure vivid, true-to-life color for critical monitoring at a cost far less than premium-priced reference monitors.

The LH2550 offers six color space settings - SMPTE, EBU, ITU-R BT.709, Adobe 2.2, Adobe 1.8 and D-Cinema – to expand the range of colors that can be viewed onscreen for high-end applications ranging from broadcast and print to digital graphics and postproduction. The monitor’s image processing engine has a three-dimensional look-up table (LUT) that calibrates it to reproduce content according to the specific color standard selected. With its advanced IPS panel, 1920 x 1200 resolution and 10-bit processing circuit, the LH2550 produces ultra-faithful color and exceptionally clear detail in any video format. Its high contrast and brightness, excellent motion response and wide 178° horizontal/vertical viewing angles make it the cost-effective choice versus more expensive reference monitors.

In addition to its state-of-the-art color reproduction capabilities, the monitor is equipped with invaluable production tools, including built-in waveform monitor and vectorscope functions that display all picture lines for signal level monitoring. It also features pre-installed calibration software that allows the monitor to be calibrated directly with color analyzers without using a PC. A split-screen function permits the simultaneously display of two video sources side-by-side from two different video inputs.

The monitor also features a Cine-gamma Film-Rec compensation function for compatible use with cameras such as the new AJ-HPX3700 and AJ-HPX2700 P2 HD VariCam camcorders and the AJ-HDC27 VariCam HD Cinema Camera. Additional monitoring tools include split-screen/freeze frame (live input vs. freeze frame), Standard Markers and Blue-only, H/V delay display, monochrome and Cross Hatch overlay display.

The LH2550 incorporates a new lightweight, slim-frame, space-saving design (it’s 1/3 lighter than its predecessor, the BT-LH2600W) and an aluminum alloy back panel. The monitor features a full range of professional level inputs including DVI-D input, two auto-switching SDI (HD/SD) inputs (with switched output), component and RGB, as well as standard RS-232C (9-pin) and GPI (9-pin) remote inputs, headphone jack, green and red tally lamps on the front panel. It also has an embedded audio decoder on board (through its headphone jack), time code display, closed caption (through video input only), audio level meter display of up to eight channels. Five customizable function keys on the front panel can be assigned with various display modes and settings for quick, one-touch adjustments.

The LH2550 operates without a cooling fan for noise-free performance. It comes standard with a desk stand and is VESA-mount compatible. A 24-volt AC Adapter, 3-pin AC cord and 4-pin XLR DC cord are included.

The LH2550 is available now at a suggested list price of $5,995.

PANASONIC INTRODUCES FULL-FEATURED AJ-CVF100G LCOS COLOR
VIEWFINDER FOR HIGH-END P2 HD AND DVCPRO HD CAMCORDERS

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2009) – Panasonic is pleased to introduce a new color viewfinder, the AJ-CVF100G, for their premium quality P2 HD and DVCPRO HD solid-state and tape-based production cameras. Incorporating LCOS display technology, and groundbreaking features like a built-in heater for operation in low temperatures, the AJ-CVF100G far exceeds the performance of competitive models.

The CVF100G is designed for operation with Panasonic’s P2 VariCam series (AJ-HPX3700 and AJ-HPX2700), the AJ-HPX3000 and AJ-HPX2000 P2 HD camcorders, and the AJ-HDC27H VariCam and AJ-HDX900 DVCPRO HD camcorder.

Utilizing a one-inch diameter imager system, the high-performance CVF100G affords cinematographers color accurate viewing which minimizes the possibility of misdirected shots. The color viewfinder delivers low maintenance costs and can accommodate larger cine-like lenses. Prevalent in HD projectors and rear-projection televisions, LCOS technology offers the advantages of fast motion response, excellent resolution, and smooth pixel edges for a natural look and feel. Eliminating the color wheel used by some other technologies, this LCOS viewfinder reduces eyestrain by delivering a complete RGB image to the shooter.

The CVF100G offers exceptional performance and versatility. It’s built-in heating function improves response speeds at low temperatures. The CVF100G has a color resolution of more than 500 lines. The shooting formats the viewfinder supports include 1080/23.98PsF, 24PsF, 25PsF, 29.97PsF, 30PsF, 50i, 59.94i, 60i and 720/50p, 59.94p and 60p.

The AJ-CVF100G will be available in the second quarter of 2009 at a suggested list price of $8,495.

PANASONIC EXPANDS PROFESSIONAL AVCCAM PRODUCT LINE
WITH COMPACT HD RECORDER AND MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA HEAD

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2009) – Panasonic announced the expansion of its Professional AVCCAM line of professional solid state high definition products with the introductions of the AG-HMR10 handheld, battery-operated field recorder/player and the AG-HCK10 compact, multi-purpose camera head.

Offering the unbeatable combination of high quality, low cost and extreme mobility, the new AVCCAM recorder and camera utilize advanced compression (MPEG-4/AVC High-Profile) and are ideal for applications in video production, sports coaching, healthcare, law enforcement, remote operation/ surveillance, and much more. Equipped with an HD-SDI input and output, the HMR10 recorder is also suitable for back-up recording from any HD-SDI-enabled camera or for use in studio or event production.

Designed for use with the HMR10 recorder, the small HCK10 camera head features three 1/4" native HD resolution MOS imagers. Iris, focus, zoom control and power are supplied from the HMR10 recorder. Cables connecting the camera to recorder will be available in lengths up to 10 meters.

The HMR10 provides the flexibility of low cost, SD memory card based recording and full 1080 and 720 resolution capture in a small, portable unit. Utilizing AVCHD, an MPEG-4 /AVC Hi Profile-based format, the HMR10 provides a near doubling of bandwidth efficiency with improved video performance over the older MPEG-2 compression used in HDV formats. SD cards containing AVCCAM recordings can be played directly in a growing number of affordable Panasonic Blu-ray players, Sony PlayStation 3® game machines, PCs and other devices.

The handheld unit records stunning full HD 1920x1080 resolution images in three recording modes – the highest quality PH mode* (average 21 Mbps/max. 24 Mbps), HA mode (approx.17 Mbps) and HG mode (approx.13 Mbps). The HE mode (approx. 6 Mbps) records at 1440x1080. The HMR10 records in HD formats including 1080/60i, 1080/50i, 720/60p and 720/50p.

With the HMR10, users can capitalize on the cost advantages, reliability and widespread availability of SD and SDHC memory cards. Using just one 32GB SDHC memory card, a user can record three hours of full resolution 1920x1080 video and audio in PH mode, four hours at HA mode and 5.3 hours at HG mode. In the HE mode, the camera can record up to 12 hours of 1440x1080 HD content – all on a single 32GB SDHC card.

The HMR10 comes standard with interface connections including the HD-SDI in/out, HDMI out and USB 2.0. Professional audio features include an internal speaker and headphone mini jack. Compact and lightweight, the handheld unit has a built-in 3.5-inch color LCD monitor that displays content in thumbnail images for quick viewing. The HMR10 operates on battery or 7.3V DC power.

For editing or playback, professionals can instantly transfer content from the SD Card to Mac or PC computers with an SD/SDHC card reader or by connecting the HMR10 recorder directly via its USB 2.0 interface.

AVCHD is supported by wide range of editing options including Apple Final Cut Pro 6.0.5, Adobe Premier Pro CS4, Grass Valley Edius PRO v4.5, Pinnacle Studio Plus 11, Pinnacle Studio Ultimate 12, Nero7 Premium Reloaded, Apple iMovie, Ulead Video Studio 11 plus and DVD Movie Factory 6 Plus. In addition, a free transcoder, available for download from the Panasonic Broadcast web site, will convert AVCHD files to DVCPRO HD and downconverted DV files for use with most existing professional editing packages.

Panasonic’s AVCCAM series brings the benefits of solid-state recording to budget-conscious professionals. Like digital still photography, recording onto SD/SDHC cards offers a fast and simple, file-based workflow with ultra-reliable performance and resistance to shock, vibration and extreme temperatures and weather. SD and SDHC memory cards are inexpensive, widely available and can be reused repeatedly. Since AVCHD records video as digital data files, content can be transferred and stored on affordable, high-capacity hard disk drives (HDD) or optical storage media and transferred to future storage media as technology advances.

The AG-HMR10 handheld recorder and the AG-HCK10 compact camera head will be available later this year.

* To record in the high-quality PH mode, an SD card specified at class 4 and higher is required.

This version corrects an earlier one which had some broken links.

PANASONIC INTRODUCES FULL-FEATURED AJ-CVF100G LCOS COLOR
VIEWFINDER FOR HIGH-END P2 HD AND DVCPRO HD CAMCORDERS

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2009) – Panasonic is pleased to introduce a new color viewfinder, the AJ-CVF100G, for their premium quality P2 HD and DVCPRO HD solid-state and tape-based production cameras. Incorporating LCOS display technology, and groundbreaking features like a built-in heater for operation in low temperatures, the AJ-CVF100G far exceeds the performance of competitive models.

The CVF100G is designed for operation with Panasonic’s P2 VariCam series (AJ-HPX3700 and AJ-HPX2700), the AJ-HPX3000 and AJ-HPX2000 P2 HD camcorders, and the AJ-HDC27H VariCam and AJ-HDX900 DVCPRO HD camcorder.

Utilizing a one-inch diameter imager system, the high-performance CVF100G affords cinematographers color accurate viewing which minimizes the possibility of misdirected shots. The color viewfinder delivers low maintenance costs and can accommodate larger cine-like lenses. Prevalent in HD projectors and rear-projection televisions, LCOS technology offers the advantages of fast motion response, excellent resolution, and smooth pixel edges for a natural look and feel. Eliminating the color wheel used by some other technologies, this LCOS viewfinder reduces eyestrain by delivering a complete RGB image to the shooter.

The CVF100G offers exceptional performance and versatility. It’s built-in heating function improves response speeds at low temperatures. The CVF100G has a color resolution of more than 500 lines. The shooting formats the viewfinder supports include 1080/23.98PsF, 24PsF, 25PsF, 29.97PsF, 30PsF, 50i, 59.94i, 60i and 720/50p, 59.94p and 60p.

The AJ-CVF100G will be available in the second quarter of 2009 at a suggested list price of $8,495.

I didn't see the HPX500 mentioned!? Is this not compatible with the 500?

The HPX500 only outputs an SD black & white signal, so you'd use an SD B&W viewfinder with it. I don't know whether this finder would work with the 500 or not, but even if you mounted it on there, the best it could show would be SD B&W.