Sony is introducing the latest member of its HDC family of 4K live camera systems. HDC-5500 is a new multi-format live camera capable of direct 4K signal output in 12G-SDI, carrying the world’s first 2/3-inch 4K global shutter three CMOS sensors that ensure superb image quality in HD, 4K and HDR live production. Optional software achieving high frame rate up to 4K 2x and HD 8x 1 will be available.
HDCU-5500 is a half rack size new camera control unit (CCU) to be used with HDC-5500. This CCU provides both 12G-SDI 4K output interface and IP interfaces, SMPTE ST 2110 and NMOS IS-04/05 via hardware options 2 . The HDC-5500 and HDCU-5500 are connected through a single fibre cable without a baseband processor unit. This pair also offers Ultra High Bitrate (UHB) transmission that transmits 2 channels of 4K signals at a time.
HDC-5500 camera system
The HDC-5500 outputs 4K signal directly from its 12G-SDI output. Installing the HKC-WL50 wireless side panel, the HDC-5500 can either operate as a wireless camera, or used with a camera stabiliser.
Using newly developed signal processing technology between the camera and CCU, the UHB transmission allows two camera signals to transmit simultaneously using a single fibre cable, increasing the operational flexibility of the camera system. The 4K TRUNK feature efficiently conveys 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, 4K PROMPTER is also transmitted from the HDCU-5500 to camera head as well.
The HDC-5500 utilises 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 Anthony Kable, Content Creation Group Manager, Sony Australia. “We’ve listened carefully to the requirements of this rapidly evolving market and provided new capability for today’s SDI systems, and tomorrow’s IP-based and HDR requirements. We’ve elegantly addressed production needs such as 4K, HDR, HFR, IP, and wireless. We are providing our customers with a flexible and cost-effective path to upgrade their current systems to a very special toolset. We continue to enhance our HDC series so that our customers can reach even higher levels of creativity and efficiency.”
Portable license
Sony will introduce a portable licensing option for HDC-5500 and the HDC-P50 POV cameras. Unlike permanent licenses, portable licenses are not tied to a specific device. Available as a yearly subscription, they can be transferred dynamically between HDC-5500 and HDC-P50 cameras. Cost saving is realised for customers such as OB and rental companies, since software can be downloaded and installed on-site, rather than shipping camera components.
Sony also introduces the HDCU-3500, a half rack size CCU that can be used with HDC-3500, HDC-3100, and also compatible with HDC-2000 series cameras. It features a 12G-SDI 4K output interface and IP interfaces, SMPTE ST 2110 and NMOS IS-04/05 through hardware option 4 .
The new HDCU-3500 and HDCU-5500 CCU will have an optional on-board recording capability that utilises a built-in memory feature. This innovative recording option will provide new options and flexibility for live production workflow 5 .
The HDC-5500, HDCU-5500, and HDCU-3500 are planned to be available in May onwards.
