Panasonic demonstrate AG-HVX200 P2 HD Palmcorder

Panasonic Broadcast introduced the first working model of the AG-HVX200, the world’s first 1080i/720p/576i, P2 multi-format palmcorder, at IBC 2005.
Noting that this camera has caused more internet forum discussion threads than any other launch of a similar product, Marc Irwin, Marketing Manager at Panasonic Broadcast said: “I have never seen so much attention in a new product. Requests from productions hoping to be the first to be able to use this revolutionary camera have been unprecedented. I see this as the beginning of a very busy and creative period in the production world where true 100Mbps HD is achievable at a cost never before thought possible”.
Offering flexibility and versatility to video professionals and productions alike, the AG-HVX200 DVCPRO HD P2miniCam camcorder provides 1080i and 720p recording with the production-proven image quality of 100 Mbps DVCPRO HD.
The AG-HVX200 shoots on a P2 card in 1080/ 50i, 25p, in 720/ 50p, 25p; and in DVCPRO50 or DVCPRO or DV, eliminating all moving parts from the camera recording path.
Panasonic claim the AG-HVX200 is extremely reliable and resistant to environmental hazards, such as the shock, vibration, and humidity, that threaten mechanical recording transports.
Michael Erkelenz, Head of Product Management at Panasonic Broadcast Europe added: "The AG-HVX200’s versatility makes it ideal for many business models within the production industry. For the professional owner-operator a high quality, future proof camcorder allowing him to output images at all compression rates, for ENG production, a flexible, robust and cost-effective unit at home in all conditions and a ideal model for Rental Companies where most genres of production will find its quality and adaptability verses cost unbeatable”.
The AG-HVX200 combines a native progressive 16:9, 3-CCD high definition imaging system and a HD-quality Leica Dicomar wide-angle zoom lens with a super-smooth, cam-driven manual zoom, focus ring, and aperture dial in a rugged package.
On an 8G P2 card, the AG-HVX200 records for 32 minutes in DVCPRO or DV, 16 minutes in DVCPRO50, and eight minutes in DVCPRO HD. The Standard for 1080 signals support 50i and 25P and for 720 standard P2miniCam supports 25 and 50 in progressive mode. In variable frame rate mode the capacity of the card will depend on the frame rate chosen. Unlike tape the frames stored on the card are only the ones flagged by the speed selected saving space and increasing the amount time recorded.
The AG-HVX200 will be available in Q1 of 2006.
For further information visit www.panasonic-broadcast.com
(SP)