High image quality and advanced functions in an AVCCAM Camcorder with easy mobility and solid-state reliability.
The powerful new tapeless AG-HMC150 joins the Panasonic line of professional HD camcorders. This new AVCCAM camcorder features highly-acclaimed functions for the popular AG-DVX100 Series of DV-tape based camcorders to tapeless HD recording. Using the cost-saving AVCHD format to record onto SDHC or SD Memory Card media, the AG-HMC150 produces exceptional images and responds to creative outdoor production needs. It also features a 28mm (35mm equivalent) wide-angle lens — widest in a professional camera of this class — and a newly developed 1/3-inch 16:9 progressive CCD. It further enhances image quality by adding a higher-quality PH mode to the clean, extended-time recording abilities of the AVCHD format. The AG-HMC150 handles full-pixel (1920 x 1080/1280 x 720) 24p and 30p progressive recording, and includes cinelike gamma and other versatile functions to meet the special needs of creative outdoor image production.
28mm Wide-Angle, 13X Zoom Leica Dicomar® HD Lens
The wide-angle zoom lens that became so popular in the HVX200 Series has been downsized, lightened, and further widened in this 13X zoom lens. The new lens structure combines 13 lens elements in 10 groups, with 3 aspherical lenses. The diameter of the front lens element has been reduced from 67 to 53.2 mm, while still achieving a 28mm wide angle (35mm equivalent), the widest of the class.*
The new lens covers most shooting situations without requiring a wide- angle conversion lens. Its minimum object distance (MOD) of about 1.9 ft (0.6 meter) at the telephoto setting helps to maximize the handheld camcorder's inherent mobility.
The same cam-driven zoom ring that was so popular in previous models ensures accurate zooming. The Leica Dicomar lens incorporates Leica optical technology and know-how throughout. A multi-coating process minimizes flare and ghosting. This results in sharp, crisp, beautifully rendered images with delicate nuances and exceptional shading.
*HD camcorders with integrated lens and 1/3-inch CCD, as of July 2008
The new 1/3-inch 16:9 progressive CCD on the AG-HMC150 further raises image quality. It combines a significantly improved S/N ratio and better low-light performance than previous models, perfect for the avid hunter. Backed by a high- performance digital signal processor, the CCD brings higher quality to HD images to meet the demands of broadcasters and high-end video producers.
High-Resolution Native Progressive 1080/60p Scan
Progressive to interlace conversion, cross conversion and down conversion all start with the 1080/60p scan. That initial 1080p native progressive scan offers the highest level of vertical resolution possible at this level of camera. Keep in mind that the camera does not record this signal but uses it as a basis for all captures. The result is an HD or SD recording with a level of image quality that cannot be matched by electronically processed scans.
The digital signal processor developed for the AG-HMC150's 1080/60p video signals uses 14-bit A/D conversion and 19-bit inner processing to attain unprecedented accuracy. While the camera does not record 1080/60p, it is from this capture that all other signals are made. The DSP performs a variety of adjustments, including eight types of gamma settings, for each of the R, G and B channels. It also converts the signals to HD or SD format. With a performance equivalent to the processors used in many higher-end HD cameras, this DSP delivers beautiful images in all video formats.
Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS)
Panasonic's advanced OIS dramatically reduces the blurring caused by hand-held camera work. Optical processing with an automatic correction function helps assure consistently clear, sharp images.
Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS)
In scenes with mixed contrast, such as when panning from indoors to outdoors, the DRS function automatically suppresses blocked shadows and blown highlights. A gamma curve and knee slope are estimated to match the contrast of each pixel, and applied in real time. When dark, bright, and intermediate shades are all contained in the same scene, this produces excellent gradation for each shade and minimizes blocked shadows and blown highlights. The images that result are enhanced by a visually wide dynamic range.
7-Mode Gamma for Richer Gradation
Drawing on technologies developed for the VariCam, Panasonic has equipped the AG-HMC150 with advanced gamma functions that address eight different shooting scenarios and enhance your creative abilities. This includes the cinelike gamma, which produces the characteristic warm tone of film recordings.
Advanced Image Adjustments Built-In
• Matrix setting including a Cinelike mode
• Adjustable H detail level, V detail level, detail coring and skin detail
• Adjustable chroma level, chroma phase, color temp and master pedestal
• Knee point settings: Auto, Low, Mid and High
• User files (with sets of camera settings) can be transferred to an SD Memory Card and shared with other cameras.
AVCHD Format for High- Quality, Efficient HD Recording
Panasonic AVCCAM camcorders use the AVCHD format for tapeless recording with high image quality and low bit rates. This format complies with the latest H.264 motion image compression standard, and employs the High Profile standard to improve compression efficiency. Featuring twice the compression efficiency of HDV (MPEG-2), the AG-HMC150 achieves extended HD recording. The following four new technologies make this possible.
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 Technologies
Intra-Frame Prediction
This process generates predictive pixels based on the adjacent pixels within each frame. It then selects the optimal predictive mode. The generated predictive image is subtracted from the original input image, and the residual data is compressed and recorded at a low bit rate. The entire process is conducted within the frame, so prediction accuracy remains high even with fast-motion images.
Variable Block Size Motion Compensation
In contrast with MPEG-2, in which inter-frame compression based on the correlation between adjacent frames uses fixed blocks of 16 x 16 pixels, AVCHD divides the blocks into multi-sizes as small as 4 x 4 pixels. In this method, it is able to use large blocks to process images that show only slight changes on the screen, and smaller blocks to process images that have considerable change. This raises the accuracy of motion compensation to boost the quality of fast-motion images while increasing compression efficiency. Loop Filter Prevents the Propagation of Compression Distortion Because MPEG-2 uses a decoding image that contains compression- induced block distortion as a reference image for motion compensation, it exhibits residual distortion — even within the same frame — when a large amount of block distortion is generated. MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 detects block distortion in the decoding image and removes it with a context- adaptive filter that functions according to the degree of distortion. This prevents the propagation of block distortion by keeping the reference image clean at all times.
New CABAC Entropy Encoding
The AVCHD format uses CABAC (Context Adaptive Binary Arithmetic Coding) for its variable-length encoding. Compared with the variable- length encoding of MPEG-2, in which the compression efficiency is greatly affected by subject type, CABAC provides lossless compression with constantly high efficiency and no distortion for virtually all subject types. Because MPEG-2 compresses and converts data according to the standard's fixed conversion rules, the compression efficiency may drop for image types other than those that were considered when the standard was established. In place of fixed conversion rules, CABAC provides the best possible conversion method by constantly optimizing and automatically tracking the image that is being processed, in parallel with the compression process.
Large-Capacity SDHC Memory Cards Enable Extended-Time Recording
SDHC Memory Cards are available with up to 32 GB of memory (AG-SDV032G). Combined with a maximum data transfer speed of 20 MB/s,* this makes PC data transfers easy and effortless. SDHC Memory Cards also feature excellent durability, with an operating temperature range of −13 degrees to 185 degrees F (−25° to 85°C). Using the high compression efficiency of the AVCHD format, up to 720 minutes** of HD data can be recorded onto a single SDHC Memory Card. Widely marketed consumer SDHC and SD Memory Cards can also be used when needed, to ensure easy availability.* Data transfer speed varies depending on the usage of SD devices. The speed given here is the maximum speed according to Panasonic specifications.
** In HE (extended time) mode using a 32-GB SDHC Memory Card. A Class 4 or higher SDHC or SD Memory Card is required for PH and HA recording. Use a Class 2 or higher SDHC or SD Memory Card for other modes. (Panasonic SDHC Memory Cards are recommended.)
Professional PH Mode — High-End Standard for the AVCHD Format
The AG-HMC150 features the image-enhancing PH mode that Panasonic developed exclusively for AVCCAM camcorders. Designed for outdoor professional image production, this mode lets you record 1080/30p, 1080/24p, 720/60p, 720/30p, or 720/24p progressive images in addition to 1080/60i from the AG-HMC150's 1920 x 1080 full-pixel HD images. The multi-slice feature of the PH mode also helps to speed up processing by nonlinear editors that are equipped with multi-core CPUs, by using parallel processing to take full advantage of the CPU power.
Professional-Level Audio with XLR Line/Mic In
The AG-HMC150 comes equipped with a built-in stereo microphone and with XLR-type audio input terminals (2 channels, mic/line switchable, +48V compatible) on the rear panel. You can switch audio channels 1 and 2 separately to either line or front mic input, which is especially useful when recording interviews or narration.
SMPTE Time-Code Generator/Reader
The built-in SMPTE time-code generator/reader lets you select the Drop Frame/Non-Drop Frame and Free Run/Rec Run modes, preset and regenerate. User bits are also provided.
Fast Scene Searches with Thumbnail View
Image data is recorded as a file for each scene. Thumbnail images and file information are automatically attached to each file to enable smooth, easy confirmation and deletion of files displayed on the LCD monitor.
Versatile Solid-State Recording Functions
• Shot mark: Allows convenient OK and NG marking, and can be added to each clip during or after recording.
• Pre-rec: While in standby mode, you can continuously store, and subsequently record, up to 3 seconds. This helps to ensure that you always get the shot you want for those times when what your hunting appears fast.
• Index: Scenes can be marked with up to 100 index flags per clip.
• Rec check: You can check the end of the most recently recorded clip with one-touch ease.
• Last clip delete: Only the most recently recorded clip is deleted with this one-touch function, adding practical convenience to everyday operation. It can be assigned as a User button function if desired. • Time stamp: The date and time can be stamped onto recorded images. Commonly used for recording evidentiary depositions and procedures.Assist Functions & Interfaces for Professional Recording
Compact, Lightweight and Perfectly Balanced
The super-compact AG-HMC150 weighs only 3.7 pounds (1.7 kg). It combines small size and light weight with an ideal balance — the center of gravity is in the hand grip –- to bring exceptional comfort and maneuverability to handheld recording. The zoom lens further enhances shooting ease and convenience, letting the AG-HMC150 handle a wide range of applications without requiring a conversion lens.
• The upper part of the handle grip contains both the Rec Start/Stop button and a lens zoom control (with three speeds). This design assures easy shooting even at low angles.
• The new LCD monitor mirror mode is convenient when shooting interviews.
13X Cam-Driven Optical Zoom and 10X Digital Zoom
The cam-driven (mechanical) manual zoom ring provides the same fast, precise zooming and feeling as cameras with interchangeable lenses. The servo-driven zoom also allows slow zooming. The AG-HMC150 is equipped with a digital zoom that instantly magnifies the image by any of three fixed values — 2X, 5X or 10X. Use it together with the 13X optical zoom lens, and you get super-telephoto magnification equivalent to a 130X zoom, without the drop in light intensity that happens when using a lens extender.
Manual Focus and Aperture Control
The manual focus ring, which gives you a level of operating ease that approaches an interchangeable lens, can be used to control the aperture too, by switching the Focus Ring (Focus/Iris) selector. You can also add backlight correction or spotlight correction to the auto aperture function.
New Focus Assist Functions
A new focus assist function with HD compatibility has also been added to the AG-HMC150. This is in addition to a center zoom function that enlarges the center of the frame, and a histogram display. You can select from three display modes: center zoom, histogram, or combined center zoom and histogram. And the Push Auto button temporarily activates the AF system for quick focusing in manual mode.Simplified Waveform and Vectorscope Display
The AG-HMC150 has waveform and vectorscope display functions as well. A single touch of the WFM key displays the waveform and vectors of the captured video signal on the LCD monitor.
Scene File Dial
Set this dial for instant recall of an entire set of shooting conditions. Six preset files are provided, and you can change any of the six file names and their settings as desired. You can also store the settings to an SD Memory Card, and load them when desired.
Three User Buttons
The AG-HMC150 allows 11 functions (listed below) to be assigned to the User buttons. The three buttons are arranged in a group for easy use. Assigned functions can be accessed at the touch of a button.
Gain Selector and ND Filter
The gain selector has three positions: L is fixed at 0 dB; and M and H can be set to 0, +3, +6, +9, or +12 dB. +18dB can also be accessed as a User button function. Three ND filters (1/4 ND, 1/16 ND, and 1/64 ND) are built-in.
Slow-Speed, Synchro or High-Speed Shutter
The shutter speed can be freely selected, from the minimum 1/15 second for Slow-Speed to the maximum 1/2000 second for High-Speed. The Synchro Scan function is ideal for recording images from monitors.
HDMI Digital HD Output Terminal
The AG-HMC150 is equipped with a next-generation HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) output terminal for digital transferring of high-quality HD video and audio signals.
*A separately purchased cable may be required for connecting the AG-HMC150 to a professional monitor.
PC Connection via USB 2.0
The standard USB terminal (Type mini B) allows the AG-HMC150 to connect to a PC in device mode. This lets a Windows PC installed with the provided AVCCAM Viewer software to upload, copy, and write HD video files, as well as transfer them to AVCHD-compatible editing software for HD production.
TC Set and User File Copy with Multi-Cameras
Connecting two AG-HMC150 cameras with a RCA cable allows the slave camera to synchronize with the master camera, which enables time-code- matched editing with multiple cameras for "TC synchro editing.
SD Down-Conversion Output (Composite/Component)
The AG-HMC150 is equipped with both composite (RCA) and component (Mini D4) video outputs, allowing HD images to be down-converted and output as SD images while they are being recorded or played. At the same time, a 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratio can be selected for side crop, letterbox, or squeeze images. Audio output (RCA, 2 channels) enables a wide variety of applications, such as viewing on an external monitor or SD dubbing.
Other Professional Features
• White balance: Three values (A/B/Preset) of white balance with the auto tracking white function.
• Mode check: Displays a list of the camera settings on the viewfinder and monitor.
• Zebra: Select any two levels from among 50% to 105%, in 5% steps.
• Center marker: Provides an accurate numeric display of the brightness at screen center.
• Tally lamps: Provided on the unit's front and rear.
• Remote: Controls zoom, rec, focus and aperture. Allows use of any camera remote controller that is compatible with the AG-DVX100 or AG-HVX200.
• Color bar signal output.
AVCHD Files Transfer Directly to IT Systems
Unlike tape, AVCHD files require no digitizing and can be directly accessed by a PC (Windows/Macintosh). This makes it easier to use motion images in new IT applications, like content production, Internet distribution and source material archiving.*1: An SDHC Memory Card reader is required if the SDHC Memory Card is not recognized by the PC.
*2: AVCHD-compatible software is required. The minimum system requirements for using the software must also be satisfied.
Load Data to a PC or Write It to a Blu-ray Disc with AVCCAM Viewer (Download it for Free)
AVCCAM Viewer for Windows PCs makes it easy to preview AVCCAM files and other AVCHD motion images and meta-data, with very simple operation. Files can be played from an SD Memory Card, Blu-ray Disc, or hard disk, and saved to a PC (hard disk) from an SD Memory Card or Blu-ray Disc. Files can also be copied or deleted, meta-data can be displayed, and data can be written to an SD Memory Card or Blu-ray Disc. AVCCAM Restorer software can also be used to restore files that were damaged, for example, by a power interruption during recording.
[PC Minimum System Requirements]
• CPU: Intel® CoreTM Duo or better (2.16 GHz or better is recommended) • OS: Microsoft® Windows Vista® Business, Windows® XP SP2 or later (Macintosh not supported) • RAM: 1024 MB or more for Windows Vista, 512 MB or more for Windows XP (1024 MB or more recommended) *Do not insert a disc [DVD (AVCHD)] produced with the provided HD Writer 2.5E software into a device that does not support the AVCHD standard. If it is inserted into such a device, the disc may not eject. Also, do not play the disc with a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.
AVCHD Nonlinear Editing
AVCHD files can be transferred at high speed by using the USB 2.0 interface to connect the AG-HMC150 or an SDHC Memory Card reader to a Windows or Macintosh computer. This dramatically improves productivity when compared with the time-consuming task of digitizing.*Correct operation should be possible with a nonlinear editor that has been confirmed for compatibility with a Panasonic HDC-SD9 camcorder, for data recorded using the same HA, HG, and HE recording modes as on consumer AVCHD equipment. Collaboration to confirm compatibility with the new PH mode is now under way with Adobe, Apple, GrassValley, and other partner companies.
Simultaneous with the shipping of the AG-HMC150, Panasonic is also making new AVCHD transcoder software available for free downloading on the following web site. This software is expected to be compatible with the PH mode and meta-data extension. This will enable the use of existing editing software which already supported DVCPROHD P2.
<For US customers: www.panasonic.com/broadcast> <Outside US: https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pro-av/support/desk/e/download.htm>
Compatibility with Existing HD Editing Environments
By using an HDMI/HD-SDI conversion box, the AG-HMC150 can be linked to existing linear/non-linear HD production environments using the DVCPRO HD format.
0 comments:
Post a Comment