Paramus, NJ—Sony Electronics’ latest camera, the Sony HDC-P31, is a point–of–view (POV) system camera with remote functionality and 1080/60p HDR capability. Moreover, it complements the company’s lineup of box and portable system camera options.
Sony recognized the need to streamline media production workflows. As a result, the camera’s remote menu setting and status monitoring minimize the time and personnel needed on-site during a production. PoV cameras are often mounted in inaccessible locations or used on a crane, rail or robotics system. However, the lightweight HDC-P31 is ideal for studio, faith and rental applications, as well as sports production.
“The heart of the camera is its image sensor; as a leader in sensor technology, Sony continues to combine our legacy and expertise in imaging with feedback from our user base to develop the necessary tools to enhance our lineup and serve the production community,” said Theresa Alesso, pro division president, Sony Electronics.
“From resolution and form factor to price and future capabilities, Sony prides itself on providing choices that empower our users. With the launch of the HDC-P31, Sony is delivering an option that responds to the industry’s request for remote functionality, paired with a smaller footprint for more mounting freedom; both contribute to a streamlined media production workflow.”
Sony HDC-P31 Specs
The new HD PoV camera incorporates a global shutter, 3.2/3-inch CMOS sensor system for enhanced optical performance. The system provides high sensitivity as well as low noise.
The HDC-P31 provides HD imagery with a high sensitivity of F12 (at 1080/60i, 1080/60p) or F13 (at 1080/50i, 1080/50p). It also boasts low noise (62dB), to capture content even in challenging lighting conditions.
In addition, the camera works as an integral part of Sony’s HDC series ecosystem. It creates the same quality images and look as well as uses the same workflow. However, it does so in a smaller POV form factor. Furthermore, the new addition creates a comprehensive system while working alongside Sony’s XVS series of switchers for an ELC Live Production Control Automation system.
For enhanced efficiency, remote access using a Web UI is also planned for winter 2020 via a software update. The update will allow for menu setting, status monitoring, log files and firmware updates to be done offsite. What’s more, the web-based application is easy to setup and does not require dedicated software.
Also, when using compatible lenses, operators can adjust the back focus of the camera remotely. The camera also supports tally through an IP network cable.
Further, the HDC-P31 meets the increasing demand for HDR production by supporting HDR with a choice of S-Log3/HLG. Additionally, the camera accommodates Sony’s SR Live workflow; it offers simultaneous production in HDR and SDR, which one production team can create to reduce cost and complexity.
Finally, the new PoV camera supports SR Live metadata; it embeds it in the SDI signal feed. Consequently, it ensures consistent quality of both HDR and SDR signals throughout the live production pipeline.
Sony plans to have the HDC-P31 available in November of 2020.
