Sony Unveils New XDCAM With Wireless Features

Sony introduced the PXW-X180 handheld camcorder with support for wireless LAN camera control and submission of proxy video at its 2014 NAB Show press conference on April 6.

The new XDCAM camcorder creates images with three 1/3-inch HD Exmor CMOS sensors and comes with a 25x optical zoom Sony G lens. It records to solid state media, including SxS memory cards, XQD cards, SD cards and Memory Sticks with via an optional adaptor.

The camcorder’s Near Field Communication (NFC) function let operators connect the camera via a wireless LAN link to a smartphone or tablet. Using the Content Browser Mobile application, users can remotely confirm camera angles and monitor recording and camera operation.

Low bit-rate proxy video files also can be generated and submitted via the wireless link. Submitting higher bit-rate video streams wirelessly requires separate mobile routers and transmission devices.

The new camcorder records MPEG HD422 at 50 Mbps and XAVC Intra and Long GOP, enabling 10-bit sampling. The PXW-X180 also records in MPEG HD420 at 35 Mbps, AVCHD and DV.

The PXW-X180 uses Sony’s new variable neutral density (ND) filter, which electronically controls density and enables continuous setting adjustment from 1/4ND to 1/128ND with simple dial operation.