Panasonic AJ-HPM20
Panasonic has introduced the AJ-HPM200, a P2 HD mobile recorder/player including additional capabilities featured in its predecessor, the AJ-HPM110.
New features for the AJ-HPM200 include optional AVCHD supports, enhanced cuts editing with separate support source and record windows, full-frame rate playback from external disk drives, AVCHD compatibility (with the AJ-YCX250G option card), up-conversion of live video inputs in real time, FTP and Giga-bit Ethernet interfaces for expanded network connectivity and 24p Time Code input for production applications, including use as a source for a traditional dailies process.
With DVCPRO HD and AVC-Intra standard as well as optional AVCHD compatibility and expanded input/output connections, Panasonic says the HPM200 P2 Mobile can be used with virtually any camera. The field recorder offers 10-bit independent frame 4:2:2 quality recording in a variety of high definition formats and frame rates, including 1080p (native), 1080i and 720p, and also records in standard definition DVCPRO50/25 and DV.
The HPM200’s AVCHD compatibility gives users more options for content management, backup recording and distribution. Professionals can play back AVCHD content on an SD card using the unit’s SD card slot, convert P2 content to AVCHD for low bit rate distribution over the network, convert AVCHD to P2 to edit in a P2 project, or record P2 and AVCHD simultaneously for backup or distribution, especially useful for producing on-set dailies. SD cards with AVCHD content can be inserted into and played back on consumer playback devices with SD card slots, including Blu-ray players, select plasma displays, game consoles, etc.
With enhanced editing functions and network capabilities, the HPM200 has increased appeal for use in production facilities, news, sports, and live event staging applications. The HPM200’s split screen function displays both the source and recorded images simultaneously for easier editing. The new P2 Mobile adds new features such as clip exchange, multiple clip selection, undo/redo last action, auto record, and text memo. The HPM200 also offers two-channel voice over recording and real-time audio memory during playback (adjust and save audio levels during playback).
The HPM200 is equipped with the range of audio/video and IT connections offered in the HPM110, including HD-SDI input/output, analog component/composite and audio, IEEE 1394 and USB2.0. The new field recorder adds compatible AES Digital audio inputs/outs as well as high-speed eSATA and Giga-bit Ethernet (GigE), which provide users with additional choices to enhance workflow. The HPM200 can ensure the highest recording quality with 10 bit 4:2:2 AVC-Intra or compatibility with existing DVCPRO editors when connected to any HD-SDI equipped camera, camcorder, deck or device. Professionals can then randomly access and view content selected via thumbnail clips on the unit’s built-in 9-inch LCD monitor.
The HPM200 will be available this October at a suggested list price of $16,000. The AJ-YCX250G AVCHD option card will be available at a suggested list price of $3,000.
