JVC SHOWS 4K TECHNOLOGY DESIGN CONCEPTS AND LIVE STREAMING CAMCORDERS

GY-LS300 compact 4K camcorder

A prototype model of the new GY-LS300 compact handheld camcorder is being shown at IBC, featuring JVCs exclusive Super 35mm 13.6MP 4K CMOS image sensor, developed by JVCs sister company, AltaSens, for 4K 24/25/30p recording. The camera uses Micro Four Thirds lenses, originally developed for DSLRs to deliver cinema-quality images in a compact camcorder, and also accepts a wide variety of stills and video lenses for filmmakers who have already invested in expensive lenses (converters available for PL-mount and other lenses). This first prototype has an advanced codec and onboard recording system, providing 4K imaging on standard SDHC/SDXC UHS-I U3 memory cards, and its dual codec system also delivers simultaneous recording and streaming for both HD/SD and HD/proxy files. The camera features the 4K CAM logo and marks the start of this new camera series from JVC.

Live streaming camcorders

JVCs popular camcorders the GY-HM600/GY-HM650 handheld, GY-HM850 shoulder mount and GY-HM890 studio models will be demonstrated both on the stand and during regular live stage presentations. With the latest firmware upgrade (v.3.03), both the GY-HM600 and GY-HM650 handheld camcorders now deliver 1080p 50Mbps recording in Extreme High Quality (XHQ) mode, i.e., virtually lossless H.264 recordings with high bit rates of 50Mbps, and feature an enhanced Auto Focus System with selection of focus area. The upgrade also offers advanced streaming functions for the GY-HM650 camcorder, including ZIXI data transfer technology and additional bit rates in various resolutions.

The GY-HM850 and GY-HM890 ProHD shoulder-mount cameras feature a built-in streaming engine, with FTP and 3G/4G connectivity, to allow live HD transmission directly from the camera. A built-in processor with proprietary algorithms, advanced content-aware error correction and JVCs new Advanced Streaming Technology (AST) maximize bandwidth, provide real-time feedback of streaming status and compensate for up to 30 percent packet loss to ensure reliable transmission, even under difficult conditions.

Beyond their reliable, high quality live HD transmission, the GY-HM850 and GY-HM890 3-CMOS cameras with interchangeable Fujinon 20x autofocus zoom lenses also deliver amazing HD (and SD) imagery, even in low light conditions. User-friendly features include dual SDHC/SDXC card slots for recording footage in a variety of native file formats, four-channel audio with two XLR mic/line inputs, 4.3-inch LCD monitor, LCOS colour viewfinder, HD-SDI and HDMI out, and genlock and time code terminals for multi-camera setups. The GY-HM890 also includes an HD/SD-SDI Pool Feed input for increased ENG flexibility. Plus, for studio or multi-camera field production, it accommodates JVC fibre or multi-core camera modules and is compatible with JVCs full range of components and accessories.

4K technology design concepts

JVC provided a glimpse into an expanding 4K future at NAB earlier this year, with new technology design concepts, and these models will also be on show at IBC. Signalling JVCs entry into the digital cinematography marketplace, the GY-LSX1 is a 4K shoulder-mount production camera equipped with a Super 35mm sensor and PL lens mount, which delivers full 4K imagery at up to 50/60p, as well as full HD imagery at up to 240p for super slo-mo applications. Equipped with a live 4K output and a host of recording options, this ergonomic camera sets the standard for next-generation professional acquisition. Like the handheld GY-LS300 camera, the GY-LSX1 features the new 13.6 MP 4K CMOS image sensor and records to SDHC/SDXC UHD-I U3 memory cards.

The new Super 35mm CMOS image sensor is also being integrated into a two-piece mini 4K camera system, the GW- SP100. This tiny camera produces beautiful 4K video, with 4096×2160 or 3840×2160 resolution at up to 50/60p recorded locally to SDXC UHS-I U3 memory cards. It has an interchangeable MFT lens mount system, chosen due to its very shallow flange depth, which offers the greatest flexibility to end users who have already invested in lenses. The design concept camera system features a video unit with a foldable and detachable 7-inch HD LCD monitor and offers the same IP capabilities as the GY-HM890 camcorder, with HD wireless video transmission and wireless camera control.

The mini 4K camera can also be attached to the MT-GB001 gimbal option; this may be used with a helicopter system for aerial shooting, with anti-shaking and anti-blurring technology ideal when used with a handheld system. So, while the mini 4K camera produces images suitable for cinematic applications, the system also has applications for broadcast news and could open a whole new world for broadcasters.