Daniel J SaitAt InfoComm 2019, Sony has introduced two new PoE+ cameras to its IP-based pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera family, expanding its offering to new markets and applications.
The SRG-X400 and SRG-X120 have been created to strengthen the company’s existing range of PTZ cameras, which include the BRC-X400 announced during NAB 2019 in April.
As the demand for high resolution recording has been increasing in various applications, both new models offer a 4K upgrade option – a first for Sony PTZ cameras – to ensure both relevance today and to protect the investment for the future.
Sony says the SRG-X400 and SRG-X120 are designed for use in a variety of corporate, education, healthcare and event space applications, while 4K resolution comes standard on the BRC-X400, suited for broadcast studio and reality TV production, as well as live event capture.
These cameras incorporate the newly developed 4K Exmor R CMOS image sensor that promotes higher image quality. This sensor achieves natural colour reproduction with minimal noise, claims the maker.
A built-in, high-resolution 4K lens accommodates wide-angle shots up to 70°, and for added flexibility, the cameras can be ceiling mounted. The cameras boast a horizontal resolution of 1000 or higher TV lines in Full High Definition (FHD) to capture fine image details.
The SRG-X400 is equipped with 40x zoom capability utilising the Clear Image Zoom technology from Sony, while the SRG-X120 camera has a 12x zoom. The zoom options, combined with a wide viewing angle, enable the capture of both an entire room and a zoomed-in image with a single camera.
The right support
Similar to the BRC-X400, both the SRG-X400 and SRG-X120 support SDI, HDMI and IP and are equipped with NDI|HX capability through an optional license.
When combined with other NDI-compatible hardware or software anywhere on the network, the NDI|HX option presents a high-level of flexibility in IP-based live production systems. Connection via a single IP cable ensures a simple and cost-efficient set-up including power supply, image output and camera controls.
Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) and Real Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP)² are also supported for recording and distribution of video and audio.
These cameras support two channel audio and the audio is encoded and streamed with the IP video.
The SRG-X400, SRG-X120 and BRC-X400 cameras also achieve deep integration with the first AI-based video analytics solution from Sony, Edge Analytics Appliance (REA-C1000).
REA-C1000 brings a new dimension for audiences to view lectures, presentations, seminars or create and view massive open online courses (MOOCs) in a more engaging way.
Use of the new PTZ series with REA-C1000’s auto tracking feature is included to enable smooth auto tracking of a presenter. Its handwriting extraction feature extracts text and characters written on a white or black board in real time and brings them to the foreground.
In addition, its chroma key-less CG overlay feature can extract the presenter and place them on any background without the need for a dedicated backscreen or special training.
The SRG-X400 and SRG-X120 also offer advanced usability for various shooting scenes. With fast PTZ movement of up to 300° a second, users can seamlessly and quickly change the pre-set position of a single camera.
In addition, the new Picture Freeze Preset function allows for a still image to remain visible during camera transitions, ensuring audience engagement.
With the addition of the Sony high-end PTZ Sync function, these models enable pre-set positions to naturally pan, tilt and zoom in a smooth and coordinated manner.
Both new PTZ cameras are planned to be available in November 2019.
