Newark, NJ—Panasonic is initiating delivers of the Panasonic AW-HE42 integrated pan/tilt/zoom camera this month. The camera offers significant improvements in lensing, stabilization and interfacing versus prior Panasonic models in this class.
The AW-HE42 is a 1080p-capable camera with output connectors for 3G-SDI, HDMI, SDI, USB and also LAN. Moreover, these output interfaces and a genlock function support large-scale shooting with multiple cameras. As a result, the camera works in a range of environments, from recording and broadcast of lectures to livestreaming at concerts and events.
In addition, the camera integrates a four drive lens system; three zoom lenses and one focus lens are driven independently but simultaneously. Driving each of the four lenses individually enables a reduction in lens size and drive range. This achieves a reduced-size body that still delivers high magnification zoom. The camera offers an optical 20x zoom and ultrahigh-resolution 30x zoom.
It also provides 1080p 60/50p video output. It incorporates an external sync signal input connector as well as BBS (black burst sync) and trilevel sync.
Panasonic AW-HE42 Specs
The AW-HE42 employs a 1/2.3-type MOS sensor and DSP (digital signal processor) for high sensitivity and high resolution. In addition to the optical 20x and 30x zoom, the camera also has a 12x digital zoom setting, as well as a 1.4, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0 or 8.0 digital extender zoom. Furthermore, it has a range of pan ±175° and tilt -30° to 90°, with a maximum speed of 90°/sec.
Moreover, beyond Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS) and Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) technologies, the AW-HE42 has a High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode. Both optical and digital four-axis automatic image stabilization reduce potential image shake. The IS system detects mounting surface vibration caused by audio equipment and opening/closing doors.
Further, supported IP transmission enables IP video output of up to 60 frames per second. Multi-streaming output (H.264 streaming) of four channels per camera and video transmission to 14 terminals are also supported. And using an IP browser, the camera is controllable from a remote location. IP video monitoring and remote camera control are also performed from a PC, Mac or mobile terminal, such as an iPhone, iPad or Android device.
Users can also upgrade the AW-HE42 to an NDI/HX-compatible model by purchasing a license from the Panasonic website. NDI/HX compatibility enables broadcast streaming by encoding and transmitting high-quality video in real time. This technology eliminates the need for IP decoders, allowing input directly to the switcher.
Moreover, the AW-HE42 supports audio input, embedding and encoding. Also supported is audio output to IP. And operators can switch on/off the camera’s audio automatic level control or use an equalizer function.
Additional Features
Other features include: a night mode for shooting with low-light levels; an optical ND filter; USB audio class 1.0 support; PoE+ for charging via a LAN cable; a freeze during preset function; MicroSD card slot; preset memory that holds 100 positions; user-assignable buttons for color temperature settings, digital extender and other functions; and a turn lock mechanism for easy installation.
Furthermore, a single remote camera controller via IP connection can operate 100 AW-HE42 cameras. In addition, a single camera can enable control of five remote camera controllers.
Panasonic also announced that several optional software upgrades are planned for the AW-HE42. They include the AW-SF100/AW-SF200 auto-tracking software key for facial recognition and human body detection.
The Panasonic AW-HE42 is available in pearl white or black metallic models. In has a suggested list price of $4,250.
