SONY ANNOUNCES PMW-1000 SXS MEMORY RECORDING DECK FOR XDCAM HD422

Sony has announced its new PMW-1000 XDCAM HD422 Recording Deck. This half-rack sized recorder, with two SxS memory card slots and VTR-like jog/shuttle operations, enhances XDCAM HD422 workflow and is suitable for both in-house and field operations due to its versatility. Usage applications that can benefit from the PMW-1000 include ENG, studio and OB productions by broadcasters; commercials and documentaries; corporate, education or wedding videos; and productions by houses of worship.

“In response to the ever-increasing demands of video production, late last year we’ve introduced the PMW-50 SxS field gear to expand support of XDCAM HD422 video production in the field. This year, we’re launching the PMW-1000 studio recording deck to bring enhanced XDCAM HD422 workflow especially for in-house broadcasts or live OB broadcasts,” said Chris Grey, General Manager, Broadcast & Content Creation Solutions, Professional Solutions Company (PSAP), Sony Corporation of Hong Kong Limited. “The versatility of the PMW-1000 in terms of interfaces, coupled with linear-like operation and the ability to record even the XAVC HD format on SxS media, make it an ideal choice for broadcasters and production houses looking for an affordable, quality production solution that opens up diverse operational possibilities.”

The PMW-1000 exhibits a number of key features that make it an ideal choice for broadcasters or production companies looking for a smooth transition from SD to HD.

Enhanced XDCAM HD422 Workflow Even in Linear Operations

Non-linear production has gradually taken over most of the industry, and the role of a recording deck has less emphasis in non-linear environments. However, “linear-like” operation is still required especially by the broadcasters. The PMW-1000 drives enhanced XDCAM HD422 workflow with tape-like operation including linear ingest with RS-422 control and linear editing (as player) with jog/shuttle control. This similar operability to tape-based devices brings familiarity to operators accustomed to them. The VTR-like jog/shuttle dial and RS-422 control also come into play when ingesting is done in baseband through an ingest controller at broadcast stations where a content server may be in operation. The PMW-1000 also provides outstanding MPEG HD422 picture quality as well as high quality eight channel (HD-SDI) 24-bit audio recording capability, all packed in a compact sized deck.

Smooth Migration from SD to HD

PMW-1000 users can select recording and playback formats from HD (XAVC, MPEG HD422 and MPEG HD420 50/35/25Mbps) and SD (MPEG IMX 50/40/30Mbps* and DVCAM 25Mbps) in a variety of frame frequencies. This flexibility can help to save on investment costs as broadcasters move towards HD operations. In addition, with its up- and down-conversion function, the PMW-1000 is ideal for integration into existing SD production systems that are looking at a future upgrade to HD.

XAVC HD Support

Besides MPEG HD422, the PMW-1000 also supports XAVC Intra HD record/playback**, enhancing the XDCAM HD workflow in the operation of cameras such as Sony’s PMW-F5 and PMW-F55. The PMW-1000 is only recorder which can record the XAVC HD format in SxS media***. It is also useful in the playback of XAVC HD recorded contents on professional monitors.

Variety of Interfaces for Versatile Operation

The PMW-1000 provides a wide range of AV and IT interfaces including HD-SDI, SD-SDI, HDMI, and Composite outputs. An RS-422 interface enables the PMW-1000 to be used as a feeder for linear editing while a Gigabit Ethernet (1000BASE-T) port allows for high-speed file transfer in network or non-linear operations. The PMW-1000 also includes a HDMI output at the rear for easy monitoring on high definition displays. A USB interface located on the front panel enables easy connection of external USB HDDs without a PC for the direct copying of clips, saving unnecessary costs and enabling simple and quick copying or backup.

Another feature of the PMW-1000 which makes it highly versatile is its three-way power source selection. It can operate on AC, DC or battery power, thus can be used in both in-house and field operations such as studio or OB productions.