Archive - March 2021

Panasonic Announces Firmware Update Programs for the LUMIX S1H, S1, S1R, S5 and BGH1

March 18, 2021
Lumix Cameras & Lenses, Uncategorized

Enhancing video performance for the S Series

Panasonic has announced the release of firmware updates to introduce new functionality for the LUMIX S Series full-frame mirrorless cameras – DC-S1H (Ver.2.4), DC-S1 (Ver.2.0), DC-S1R (Ver.1.8), DC-S5 (Ver.2.2) – and the Micro Four Thirds box-style mirrorless camera DC-BGH1 (Ver.2.0).

The new capabilities have a strong emphasis on enhancing video performance to further improve camera usability for the S Series. The firmware will be available at the LUMIX Global Customer Support Site according to the below release schedule. As firmware updates are an important value-add for LUMIX customers, Panasonic is committed to ongoing improvements in the future.

https://av.jpn.support.panasonic.com/support/global/cs/dsc/download/index.html

Model Firmware Version Release Date
DC-S1H Ver.2.4 31 March, 2021
DC-S1 Ver. 2.0 6 April, 2021
DC-S1R Ver.1.8 6 April, 2021
DC-S5 Ver.2.2 6 April, 2021
DC-BGH1

LUMIX Tether for Multicam

 Ver.2.0

Ver 1.1

 24 March, 2021

24 March, 2021

LUMIX S1H Firmware Version 2.4

The S1H now complies with 5.9K RAW video data output and recording in Blackmagic RAW on Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR, in addition to the existing Apple ProRes RAW capabilities – the first in the industry for a full-frame mirrorless camera[i]. With two alternatives for RAW workflow, the S1H further meets the creative needs of professional videographers. This firmware is available free of charge.

Firmware 2.4 adds the following features:

RAW video data output over HDMI to Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR

  • [5.9K] / [4K] / [Anamorphic (4:3) 3.5K] 12-bit RAW video data can be output over HDMI to Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR, to be recorded as Blackmagic RAW.[ii]
  • V-Log or V709 is selectable on the Live View monitor during RAW output.
  • Shooting assist functions including WFM (Wave Form Monitor), Vector Scope, Luminance Spot Meter and   Zebra Pattern can be used during RAW output.
Sensor Area Resolution Frame Rate Aspect HDMI Output
Full-frame 5.9K (5888×3312) 29.97p/25p/23.98p 16:9 12-bit
Super 35mm 4K (4128×2176) 59.94p/50p/29.97p/25p/23.98p 17:9 12-bit
Super 35mm Anamorphic 3.5K (3536X2656) 50p/29.97p/25p/23.98p 4:3 12-bit

Users can choose whether to add camera orientation information in [Vertical Position Info (Video)] menu to prevent unintended image rotation in playback.

[Power Save Mode] is selectable while the camera is powered with an AC adaptor (DMW-AC10, sold separately).

LUMIX S1 Firmware Version 2.0

Once the LUMIX S1 is updated to Firmware 2.0, installing the DMW-SFU2[iii] Upgrade Software Key (sold separately) will activate these new features:

6K(5952×3968) / 5.9K(5888×3312) / 5.4K(5376×3584) video recording mode in MOV format *1

  • 6K24p, 4:2:0 10bit LongGOP, 200Mbps, LPCM *1
  • 5.9K30p/25p/24p, 4:2:0 10bit LongGOP, 200Mbps, LPCM *1
  • 5.4K30p/25p, 4:2:0 10bit LongGOP, 200Mbps, LPCM *1

C4K(4096×2160) video recording mode in MOV format

  • C4K60p/50p, 4:2:0 10bit LongGOP, 200Mbps, LPCM *2
  • C4K60p/50p, 4:2:0 8bit LongGOP, 150Mbps, LPCM *2
  • C4K30p/25p/24p, 4:2:2 10bit LongGOP, 150Mbps, LPCM

4K(3840×2160) 10-bit video recording mode in MOV format

  • 4K60p/50p, 4:2:0 10bit LongGOP, 200Mbps, LPCM *2

Anamorphic(3328×2496) video recording mode in MOV format

  • 4K-A50p, 4:2:0 10bit LongGOP, 200Mbps, LPCM *2
  • 4K-A50p, 4:2:0 8bit LongGOP, 150Mbps, LPCM *2
  • 4K-A30p/25p/24p, 4:2:2 10bit LongGOP, 150Mbps, LPCM
*1 Maximum continuous recording time is 15 minutes.
*2 Maximum continuous recording time is 29 minutes 59 seconds.

RAW video data output over HDMI function

  • [5.9K] / [4K] / [Anamorphic (4:3) 3.5K] 12-bit RAW video data output can be output over HDMI.
  • Apple ProRes RAW can be recorded on Atomos NINJA V.

[Time Code] function

Sensor Area Resolution Frame Rate Aspect HDMI Output
Full-frame 5.9K (5888×3312) 29.97p/25p/23.98p 16:9 12-bit
APS-C 4K (4128×2176) 59.94p/50p/29.97p/25p/23.98p 17:9 12-bit
APS-C Anamorphic 3.5K (3536X2656) 50p/29.97p/25p/23.98p 4:3 12-bit

Features and functions available without DMW-SFU2 include:

  • [Dual Native ISO Setting] function added.
  • Users can choose whether to add camera orientation information in [Vertical Position Info (Video)] menu to prevent unintended image rotation in playback.
  • [Power Save Mode] is selectable while the camera is powered with an AC adaptor (DMW-AC10, sold separately).

LUMIX S1R Firmware Version 1.8 and LUMIX S5 Firmware Version 2.2

  • Users can choose whether to add camera orientation information in [Vertical Position Info (Video)] menu to prevent unintended image rotation in playback.
  • [Power Save Mode] is selectable while the camera is powered with an AC adaptor (DMW-AC10, sold separately).

LUMIX BGH1 Firmware Version 2.0

To support the growing need for live streaming, the BGH1 will provide an IP streaming function that enables high-quality image transmission to social streaming platforms online with PC connection over wired LAN.

The LUMIX BGH1 is a unique camera that can stream 4K 60p (50p) video in H.265. The H.265 realises half the bitrate while keeping the image quality the same as H.264, which means it can provide 2x higher image quality at the same bitrate as H.264. Streaming in ultra-high definition 4K at a low bitrate is possible even in cases where the bandwidth is not broad enough.

IP streaming with PC (RTP/RTSP protocol)

  • 4K/60p (3840×2160) H.265: 50M, 25Mbps H.264: 50M, 25Mbps
  • 4K/30p (3840×2160) H.265: 25M, 12.5Mbps H.264: 25M, 12.5Mbps
  • FHD/60p (1920×1080) H.265: 20M, 16Mbps H.264: 16M, 8Mbps
  • FHD/30p (1920×1080) H.265: 12M, 6Mbps H.264: 6M, 3Mbps

RAW video data output over HDMI function

  • Apple ProRes RAW can be recorded on Atomos NINJA V.[iv]

V-Log or Rec.709 is selectable on Live View monitor during RAW output.

Shooting assist functions including Luminance Spot Meter and Zebra Pattern can be used during RAW output.

A LUT (Lookup table) exclusively designed for RAW video recorded on NINJA V is available on the following customer support website to make the same color grading as V-Log/V-Gamut. It is easy to match colours between the footage recorded with Panasonic Varicam, EVA1 and GH5 Series cameras to combine them. https://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/download/lut/s1h_raw_lut/index.html

Sensor Area Resolution Frame Rate Aspect HDMI Output
Micro Four Thirds 4K (4096×2160) 23.98p/25.00p/29.97p/50p/59.94p 17:9 12-bit
Micro Four Thirds
Anamorphic		 3.7K (3680X2760) 23.98p/25.00p/29.97p/50p/59.94p 4:3 12-bit

Genlocking status display

  • Synchronisation status can be shown on the external monitor connected with HDMI or SDI when the camera is under Genlock synchronisation.

SD Memory Card formatting via PC connection

  • It is possible to format the SD Memory Card from the camera menu on the live view display of LUMIX Tether while the camera is connected with the PC.

Users can choose whether to add camera orientation information in [Vertical Position Info (Video)] menu to prevent unintended image rotation in playback.

LUMIX Tether for Multicam Ver.1.1[v]

  • Settings and controls over the BGH1 during IP streaming are available.
  • Rec.Quality options corresponding to RAW video data output will be displayed when [Menu]>[Video]>[Image Format]>[HDMI RAW Data Output] is turned ON.
  • It is possible to start/stop recording on the external device with the BGH1 during HDMI/SDI output.
  • When [HDMI Recording Control] and/or [SDI Recording Control] is/are ON, Rec button is available even if the SD Card is not inserted. The connection method, either HDMI or SDI, is also displayed.

LUMIX Tether for Multicam Download Program

For further information, please visit www.panasonic.com.au or call 132 600.

[i]As of March 18, 2021.
[ii]All functions may not be available depending on the situation. Selectable recording mode depends on the firmware version of Video Assist 12G HDR. DaVinci Resolve or DaVinci Resolve Studio is required to play back the Blackmagic RAW data. DaVinci Resolve Studio is required to edit the Blackmagic RAW data.
[iii]Users who already have DMW-SFU2 do not need to purchase an extra DMW-SFU2. There is no need to upgrade the camera with DMW-SFU2 if this was once done before. All functions may not be available depending on the situation. Software that supports Apple ProRes RAW is required to edit RAW video recorded with NINJA V. Apply the LUT (Look up table) available on the following customer support site to make the same color grading as V-Log/V-Gamut. https://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/download/lut/s1h_raw_lut/
[iv]Software that supports Apple ProRes RAW is required to edit RAW video recorded with NINJA V. All functions may not be available depending on the situation.
[v]For settings and controls over the BGH1 via PC during IP streaming, LUMIX Tether for Multicam PC software should also be updated to Ver.1.1 or higher.

Panasonic Microwaves double down with Canstar Blue ‘Most Satisfied Customers’ Award for second year running

March 11, 2021
Consumer Electronics, Kitchen appliances, Uncategorized

For the second year running, a Canstar Blue survey of Australians across the country has found that Panasonic Microwaves lead the way – with the company receiving the 2021 Award for Most Satisfied Customers.

Panasonic’s top ranking was undisputable, with the company doubling down this year to receive a clean sweep of five stars across all seven ratings. Not only did Panasonic Microwaves lead six other brands in overall satisfaction, the brand also received a five-star rating in value for money, ease of use, even heat distribution, cooking functions, appearance/design and ease of cleaning.

Canstar Blue Editor-In-Chief Simon Downes said: “Two-thirds of consumers are using their microwaves every single day, so they want an appliance that is easy to use, looks good, and comes at a reasonable price. For Panasonic to win our ratings two years in a row – in a highly competitive market – suggests the brand is living up to Australian expectations.”

Canstar Blue surveyed nearly 900 Australian adults who had purchased a new microwave in the last three years. The research found that price (40%) is the most significant factor in the purchase decision of consumers, followed by size and appearance (19%), ease of use (15%) and brand name (11%).

Respondents reported that they replaced their old models after an average of just over six years. 30 per cent of those surveyed said they use their microwave more than they use their oven or cooktop, while 20 per cent said they bought a model to complement their other kitchen appliances/general kitchen aesthetic.

Charissa Sano, Category Manager, Home Appliance Group, Panasonic, said: “We’re very excited to once again receive this recognition from Canstar Blue. Over the last 12 months, we have seen consumers spend more time at home and significantly increase their purchases of home appliance products. During this time, we have not only maintained our number one ranking* in Microwaves, but have also invested in educating Australians about the benefits that the latest technology has to offer. We have released a strong range over the last year that offers true value for money, and are proud that Australians are recognising the benefits of our technology – from easy and versatile cooking functions, to even heating that ensures delicious meals”

Panasonic has continuously invested in Microwave innovation, from the company’s first model around 55 years ago, to today’s Convection models that offer the ultimate cooking freedom – allowing consumers to bake, roast, grill and steam, and enjoy convenient heating and defrosting.

The full range of results can be seen on the Canstar Blue website at:  https://www.canstarblue.com.au/appliances/microwaves/

To learn more about Panasonic Microwaves visit https://www.panasonic.com/au/

*Source: Euromonitor International Limited, Consumer Appliances 20ed, per Microwaves’ brand retail volume sales in 2019