Panasonic Announces Upgrade for AW-HE40 PTZ Cameras, Adds ‘Tap-Assist’ Camera Control

Panasonic has unveiled two big bits of news regarding its HD PTZ cameras, announcing an powerful new optional upgrade for its AW-HE40 HD PTZ cameras and introducing a new “tap-assist” camera control system (AW-HEA10) for the the AW-HE130 and AW-HE40 PTZ cameras.

AW-HE40 PTZ CAMERA UPGRADE ADDS HD IP-STREAMING, IN-CAMERA RECORDING, AND USB VIDEO
Panasonic powerful optional upgrade for its AW-HE40 integrated full HD PTZ cameras, the AW-SFU01 upgrade, adds production-quality HD MPEG-4 streaming, in-camera HD recording on a microSD card, and USB video/audio capabilities to the cameras’ already impressive range of features.

AW-HE40S pan-tilt-zoom camera

AW-HE40S pan-tilt-zoom camera

The AW-SFU01 feature upgrade will be available for purchase in July 2015 at a suggested list price of $350.00. A special promotional offer will provide this function upgrade in July at no charge for cameras purchased between March 24th and May 31st, 2015.

This new major feature upgrade will allow direct-from-camera, production-quality audio/video streaming (RTP/RTSP/RTCP) up to 1080/60p 24Mbps at an unprecedented price point. The upgraded camera’s IP streaming—in combination with the HE40’s standard IP-control, built-in MIC/LINE input  and PoE+ (power over LAN cable) capabilities—enables a revolutionary “single-cable” remote production application. Additionally, the upgrade makes it possible for the HE40 to function as a USB Super-Webcam for videoconferencing and collaboration–with a 30X zoom lens, preset functions, as well as simultaneous IP and USB streaming* and control.
The upgrade also enables production-quality in-camera HD MPEG-4 video and audio recording to a microSD card at up to 28mbps, which can be utilized for Web-controlled back-up and archiving, replayed and streamed, or sent as a file via FTP. Because it is USB video-enabled, the HE40 also offers a premium choice for professional-level videoconferencing via widely available USB-class applications.
The HE40’s audio functions are also extended by the upgrade: Auto Level Control adjusts audio input level automatically, and an Equalizer Setting can select three types of audio input control, [ON/OFF], [LOW CUT] and [Speech]. Embedded audio may also be used in conjunction with HD streaming and recording functions.
An upgraded HE40’s breadth of powerful functions facilitates the development of innovative applications in broadcasting, staging, sports, government, houses-of-worship, and education.
The HE40 is currently available in two versions, the AW-HE40H with HDMI output, and the AW-HE40S with HD-SDI output. Both versions are available in either white or black. The cameras are designed to produce great results in a variety of applications that require high-quality video and precise control—such as remote production, conference video, event capture, staging, distance learning, and HOW. Thanks to a precision 30X optical zoom lens, 1000 TV lines of horizontal resolution, smooth PTZ functions, and exceptional image quality, HE40 cameras are also ideal for demanding recording, streaming, and IMAG use. With IP-Preview transmission and control, and support for PoE+, the HE40 also offers the flexibility needed for cost-effective installation and easy management.
The HE40 also features stereo MIC/LINE-level switchable audio input for embedding, an innovative 1.4X digital extender, minimum illumination of .35 lx, and 16-axis color matrix control for precise camera “painting” and matching.

The HE40 cameras incorporate a version of the versatile IP/Serial/Web control system and IP-Live Preview pioneered in Panasonic’s AW-HE60 series cameras. IP, RS-422, RS-232C in/out interfaces are also included, and a built-in Web-server enables both browser control and IP-live preview and setup from PCs, Macs and mobile devices including iPhone, iPad, and Android tablets and phones. RS-422 Serial or IP control is available using Panasonic’s AW-RP50N, AW-RP120G controllers, AK-HRP200G paintbox and the AW-HEA10 system, as well as appropriately programmed systems from Crestron, AMX, Winnov, and other manufacturers.

PANASONIC INTRODUCES AW-HEA10 ‘TAP’ CAMERA SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED CONTROL OF PTZ CAMERAS
Panasonic is also introducing an innovative “tap-assist” camera control system, the AW-HEA10, that dramatically simplifies and enhances remote control shooting with two of the company’s next-generation pan/tilt/zoom cameras, the AW-HE130 and AW-HE40.

AW-HEA10K pan-tilt-zoom camera

AW-HEA10K pan-tilt-zoom camera

The complete solution includes either an HE130 or HE40 camera, mounted on top of an HEA10 tap-assist module, plus an optional tablet* and network connection. When shooting with the primary HE40 or HE130 PTZ camera, a super wide-angle video image is simultaneously captured by the HEA10 and displayed on the tablet screen. Tapping the desired area of the image on the tablet allows the user to move the PTZ quickly and smoothly to capture the selected shot. Remote camera operation is thus significantly simplified and accelerated by allowing instant selection of a new shooting angle, eliminating the need to manually zoom out and reposition the camera. Zooming can be controlled via the familiar “pinching” motion, or via an on-screen control. Up to nine pre-set main-camera shots can also be selected via dedicated on-screen buttons.

Because the primary HE40/HE130 camera can be controlled using the HEA10’s wide-angle view as a reference, the PTZ can be operated even when selecting a shot that can’t be viewed in the primary camera’s frame. This ability makes the system especially effective for remote seminars, sports, medical education, news, panel discussions and similar applications. Even non-technical personnel can easily select appropriate shots with this system, while experienced camera operators can use the HEA10 to expand the scope of their remote video production.
When using traditional camera controllers, the operator may sometimes miss action that happens outside the primary camera frame. With the tap-assist camera system, these changes in the action can be previewed in the wide-angle tablet view, and instantly responded to by simply tapping the tablet. Even when shooting rapidly changing circumstances, nothing need be missed.
The very wide-angle horizontal view of the HEA10 is also available via an HDMI output, and can be used for input to a local production switcher for a wide-angle POV shot or other uses. POE+.compatibility simplifies integration and expands the range of uses.
The AW-HEA10 is offered in either black or white, to match the color of the main PTZ camera, and will be available in April with a suggested list price of $1400.00.

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