Panasonic Releases New AW-HR140 Outdoor Integrated PTZ FHD Remote Camera
Story Highlights
Panasonic has announced that it is now delivering the AW-HR140 outdoor integrated pan/tilt/zoom FHD remote camera, which is enclosed in an IP65 protected case eliminating the need for a separate housing. Primary applications for this SDI-output camera are for outdoor live events and sports arenas and stadiums, as well as for broadcast coverage of weather, traffic, and scenics.
Equipped with 1/2.86-type full HD 3MOS sensors, the camera realizes high sensitivity with low noise and high resolution (1000 horizontal TV lines) through the use of advanced video processing. In addition to a sharp, fast F1.6, 20x optical zoom lens, the HR140 boasts an innovative 1.4x digital extender that can increase the effective focal length of the lens by 40% while delivering smooth, high resolution video.
Flexible operation is achieved by features compatible with tough outdoor environments such as resistance to water and dust, wind pressure and severe salt damage, as well as hot environments. Aluminum and other metal parts are coated to protect against severe salt damage, enabling installation in seaside areas subject to salt air. PTB/PPS plastic is employed for the exterior, giving excellent heat resistance.
Frosting, icing and condensation are prevented by heating in environments as cold as -5 ºF. Even in blizzards, snow that hits the glass surface melts off to maintain visibility. Moreover, all functions are guaranteed to operate in wind speeds of up to 15 m/s, and basic performance is maintained at wind speeds of up to 50 m/s without destruction of the camera. A lens wiper, which can be controlled remotely, keeps the lens clear even when the camera is being used in harsh environments.
In addition to stabilization by conventional optical image stabilization (OIS) technology, smooth, stable images are captured with vibration compensation provided by the newly-developed Dynamic Image Stabilizing System (D.I.S.S.), a valuable asset in the event of high winds or related unstable weather conditions.The HR140 likewise incorporates haze-reduction technology–beneficial for outdoor environments such as weather reporting–for ensuring optimal image reproduction. In certain situations, picture contrast may be low as result of environmental fog or haze conditions, and the Haze Reduction function will optimize camera image settings appropriately to assure that the subject of shooting is as clear as possible.
Output formats include 1080/59.94p, 1080/29.97p, 1080/23.98p, 1080/59.94i, 1080/29.97PsF, 1080/23.98PsF, 720/59.94p, 1080/50p, 1080/25p, 1080/50i, 1080/25PsF and 720/50p. Additional features include three Auto Tracking White Balance (ATW) modes (slow/normal/fast), PoE++ support for lower installation costs, Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS), Hybrid Digital Noise Reduction, a Night Mode for infrared shooting, a Freeze During Preset function, and comprehensive Intelligent Functions (ATW, Automatic Gain Control, Auto Iris Control, Auto Digital Shutter, Auto ND Filter).
Using an IP browser, such as Internet Explorer or Safari, it is possible to set up and control the HR140 from a remote location. IP video monitoring and remote camera control can also be performed from mobile terminals such as an iPhone, iPad or Android devices. Furthermore, the camera features a powerful internal audio/video encoder that can stream up to seven channels of video at different resolutions, bitrates and framerates. For this reason, there is no need for the separate encoder normally required when streaming video and audio via IP.
Using an IP connection, up to 100 HR140 cameras can be controlled by a single AW-RP120G, AW-RP50, or PC via a network. One camera can also be operated by up to five remote camera controllers (AW-RP120Gs or AW-RP50s) via IP. The camera can also be powered by PoE++ (Power over Ethernet) enabling single cable connectivity to the camera for power, audio, video, and control.
Thanks to a highly evolved pan-tilt design, the HR140 achieves smoother and more natural movement during on-air shots. The pan-tilt head also has a wide shooting range, with a pan range of ±175 ° and a tilt range of -30 ° to 210 °. The newly developed pan-tilt drive provides high-speed operation at maximum 60 °/s, quality response to remote control operation, and highly precise stop control. These features combine to accurately capture fast-action sports scenes or smooth concert footage. The camera also achieves the low noise level during operation, at NC45 or less at a pan-tilt speed of 60°/s.
The AW-HR140 is immediately available at a suggested list price of $17,950.00.