Panasonic releases rugged robotic broadcast camera

Panasonic has released the robust AW-HR140EJ outdoor robotic camera, enclosed in an IP65-protected case that eliminates the need for a separate housing.

This integrated pan/tilt/zoom FHD remote broadcast camera is built to perform in a range of tough outdoor situations. It is resistant to water, dust, wind and severe salt damage, and is equipped with a wiper as standard, and has a pan-tilt vibration compensation function (Dynamic Image Stabilising System) for stable shooting in high winds or other adverse weather conditions.

Matthew Alexander, Product Marketing Manager, Panasonic Broadcast, said: “We are excited to have the AW-HR140EJ join our AW robotic camera range. Customers have been asking for an outdoor version of our very popular AW-HE130 robotic camera and the AW-HR140EJ is the realisation of that request – offering the same high image quality housed in an IP65 outdoor body. We see opportunities for this camera in the broadcast and rental market – including capturing live footage at outdoor events, such as music festivals or stadium sports, as well as coverage of traffic, weather and scenic shots.”

“It shares the same FHD 3MOS sensor system, high quality digital image processing and powerful 20x lens as our AW-HE130, and conveniently works with the same IP and serial protocols as our other AW cameras. We’ve added tailor-made functions for rugged outdoor use such as dynamic image stabilisation, haze reduction and a window heater/wiper.”

Key features

The camera features 1/2.86-type full HD 3MOS sensors and a motorised 20x zoom lens. Sophisticated image processing provides high sensitivity with low noise and horizontal resolution of 1,000 television lines.

Haze Reduction technology is valuable for ensuring optimal image reproduction in outdoor environments such as during weather reporting. Where picture contrast is low as a result of environmental fog or haze conditions, the Haze Reduction function will adjust camera settings to ensure the subject is as clear as possible.

The water and dust-resistant case resists salt damage and features a wiper. Stable images are captured with vibration compensation provided by the newly-developed Dynamic Image Stabilising System (D.I.S.S.), a valuable asset in the event of high winds or related unstable weather conditions.

Output formats include 1080/59.94p, 1080/50p, 1080/59.94i, 1080/50i, 1080/29.97p, 1080/25p, 1080/23.98p, 1080/29.97PsF, 1080/25PsF, 1080/23.98PsF, 720/59.94p and 720/50p. Using an IP connection, up to 100 HR140 cameras can be controlled by the AW-RP120G/RP50 remote camera controller via a switching hub. One camera can also be operated by up to ¬five remote camera controllers via IP connection.

The AW-HR140EJ robotic camera is priced at RRP$26,100 (inc GST) and is available this month from Panasonic Broadcast dealers and distributors. For further information, please visit www.panasonic.com.au or call 132 600.

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