Sony HDC-1500R444 Multi-Format HD Camera

2Sony's HDC-1500R444 multi-format HD studio camera offers the full range of interlace and progressive formats while delivering impressive lowlight capability and a superb signal-to-noise ratio. Along with high-quality 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion and a newly developed CCD imager, the HDC-1500R444 includes software that allows 4:4:4 dual-stream output. That means no compression of colors, providing an image that meets the most stringent of broadcast standards.

Using an optical fiber interface and digital transmission, this portable camera can transmit full-bandwidth video and audio along cable to a base station up to 3,000 meters away. When combined with the optional HDLA-1500 large lens adapter, the HDC-1500R444 can be quickly and easily outfitted for studio use, sliding inside the HDLA-1500 without additional cable connections.

Power HAD FX CCD for High Sensitivity

The HDC-1500R444 is equipped with three 2/3"-type 2.2-megapixel HD CCDs with the latest on-chip lens structure for improved sensitivity. In addition to this performance, a wide variety of capture modes including 1080/50i, 60i, 1080/24P, and 1080/25P, 30P are available. This CCD can also capture top-quality 1080/50P, 60P* images--a capability that offers highest-quality 720/50P and 60P image acquisition for today's operations.

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Please Note:

*1080/50P, 60P signals can be only output from the camera head.

14-bit A/D (Analog to Digital) Conversion

The HDC-1500R444 utilizes a 14-bit A/D convertor, which enables images captured by the high-performance CCDs to be processed with maximum precision. In particular, this high-resolution A/D conversion allows the gradation in mid-to-dark-tone areas of the picture to be faithfully reproduced. Thanks to this 14-bit A/D convertor, pre-knee signal compression at highlight areas can be eliminated and the camera can clearly reproduce a high-luminance subject at a 600% dynamic range.

Improved S/N Ratio

At the heart of the outstanding picture performance of the HDC-1500R444 camera is a 2/3"-type 2.2-megapixel full HD progressive CCD. Based on Sony's HAD sensor technology and the latest on-chip lens structure, this CCD offers a high sensitivity of F10 or F11 at 2,000 lx and an excellent signal-to-noise ratio of 56dB.

Together with a unique "Noise Suppression" function, which reduces the high-frequency noise elements in video signals by using Sony's advanced digital signal processing technology, a 64dB S/N ratio can be achieved.

Improved Focus Assist Functions

For easier focusing through the viewfinder, two types of focus assist functions are incorporated into the HDC-1500R444: Viewfinder Detail and Focus Assist Indicator. To intuitively recognize a focusing point, users of the camera can add dedicated image-enhancing edge signals directly to the viewfinder as "Viewfinder Detail." The "Focus Assist Indicator" is a helpful tool for manual focus adjustments, especially when shooting wide-angle views. An indicator is displayed at the bottom or other positions of the viewfinder frame, enabling users to make more accurate and fine focus adjustments.

Compact and Lightweight

The HDC-1500R444 portable camera is designed to be very compact and lightweight for a high level of mobility in the field. The HDC-1500R444 camera weighs approximately 9 pounds (4.5kg), ensuring comfortable operation either on the shoulder or on a tripod.

1080/50p Ready and 3G Transmission Upgradable

The HDC-1500R can capture 1080/50p and output from camera head as dual link. Using a 3G migration kit, the HDC-1500R444 will be able to upgrade to a 3G transmission system. For broadcasters wishing to migrate to 1080/50p transmission in the future, the HDC-1500R444 becomes a future-proof 1080p-ready camera.

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Please Note:

3G migration kit is planned for release in 2010.

Ergonomic Design

The design of the HDC-1500R444 provides a high level of operability. All control switches and connectors are in the most logical places and are positioned for optimum functionality and ease of use. The HDC-1500R444's low center of gravity allows the operator to carry the camera comfortably on the shoulder. In addition, the shoulder pad of the camera can be adjusted either forwards or backwards without using a screwdriver, so the camera can be easily moved to a well-balanced position.

Flexible Selectable Transmission System (Digital Fiber Optic or Analog Triax)

The HDC-1500R444 provides a fully digital transmission link to the base station. Using SMPTE standard hybrid fiber/copper cable, this allows completely transparent transmission of full bandwidth video and audio signals over cable length of up to 3,000 meters (over 9,800 ft). This ensures optimum quality HD signals can be delivered into any production environment. Using the HDTX-100/HDFX-100 adapter, the HDC-1500R444 can also be used as a triax transmission system.