AVNation TV

Category: Cameras

  • New Hitachi Kokusai Z-HD6500 HD Camera Package with CCU Accentuates Strong Cost-to-Performance Ratio

    New Hitachi Kokusai Z-HD6500 HD Camera Package with CCU Accentuates Strong Cost-to-Performance Ratio

    Hitachi Kokusai Electric Inc., based in Tokyo, specializes in broadcasting, security, wireless communications, and semiconductor manufacturing, aiming to become the top global company in Video and Wireless Network Solutions.

    Hitachi Kokusai will showcase a new live production package at NAB Show 2024, featuring the Z-HD6500 HD camera and CU-HD550 camera control unit. The package aims to provide cost-effective solutions for live content acquisition, supporting multiple HD formats up to 1080p and incorporating the latest technical innovations.

    Hitachi Kokusai offers a cost-to-performance camera package, the Z-HD6500, designed for broadcasters and production professionals. It features advanced visual quality, a CU-HD550 control unit, and a strong technical support for flawless performance and remote control capabilities.

    Hitachi Kokusai will highlight a new live production  package at NAB Show 2024 that bundles its Z-HD6500 HD camera with its CU-HD550 camera control unit. The package is priced for broadcast and production budgets of all sizes, providing customers with the industry’s best cost-to-performance value available for live content acquisition.

    Supporting multiple HD formats to 1080p, the Z-HD6500 camera’s design reduces the costs and system complexity for content creators while incorporating the latest technical innovations from Hitachi. Its visual quality is enhanced through three 2/3-inch CMOS image sensors with a global shutter to enable the immaculate, crystal-clear capture of BT.2020 color gamut compliant video. The global shutter technology reduces unwelcome artifacts such as banding and flicker that may occur when capturing video in houses of worship, event centers, and broadcast studios with LED lighting and large LED displays.

    The Z-HD6500 also delivers exceptional sensitivity for HD production. The F10 sensitivity of 59.94 frames per second (fps) enables high-quality acquisition in reduced lighting, while a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 62dB delivers super-quiet images. The camera’s sleek, advanced design enables superior color reproduction, while its HD workflow enables seamless multi-format productions and supports both High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Standard Dynamic Range (SDR).

    Hitachi Kokusai’s CU-HD550 camera control unit was re-developed as a companion for the Z-HD6500, enabling smooth and reliable remote control of key camera functions while maintaining image quality and consistency. The CU-HD550 can output HDR or SDR and provides camera operators with two return video feeds for live monitoring. The CU-HD550 displays that feed on the Z-HD6500’s viewfinder, which is enabled through the CCU’s built-in cross-converter and frame synchronizer.

    The Z-HD6500, now shipping, was formally introduced at NAB Show 2023 to bring affordable multi-format HD production to a wider range of content creators. Discussions with customers and Hitachi Kokusai dealers on the floor inspired the Hitachi Kokusai team to create a complete professional camera system package that was truly priced to sell.

    “Our longtime customers consistently return to Hitachi cameras because of the price-to-performance ratio and the strong technical support that they receive both through Hitachi Kokusai and our channel partners,” said Kenneth Cyr, National Sales Manager, Hitachi Kokusai. “We are excited to offer our customers an exceptional camera solution for varied live production environments that offers consistently flawless performance, vibrant and lifelike colors, and remote control capabilities that allow camera operators to concentrate on framing professional shots.”

    The Z-HD6500 and CU-HD550 will be on display form April 14-17 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Hitachi Kokusai exhibits at Booth C4516.

     

  • Riedel Debuts RefCam in German Bundesliga

    Riedel Debuts RefCam in German Bundesliga

    Riedel Communications, headquartered in Wuppertal, Germany, designs, manufactures, and distributes real-time video, audio, data, and communications networks for broadcast, event, sports, theater, and security applications, offering rental services and fiber backbones.

    Riedel Communications‘ RefCam referee camera system made its German Bundesliga debut, offering fans an immersive view of soccer matches through the eyes of the referee.

    The RefCam system aims to provide fresh perspectives, increase transparency in refereeing, and enhance fan engagement with sports by showcasing the challenges faced by referees and offering unprecedented insights into their decision-making process.

    Riedel Communications’ RefCam referee camera system made its German Bundesliga debut in a recent match between Eintracht Frankfurt and VfL Wolfsburg, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of sports coverage. Worn by soccer referee Daniel Schlager, the RefCam system captured an immersive, up-close perspective of the game through the eyes of the match official. This first-of-its-kind initiative in the Bundesliga aims to offer fans a unique view of the on-field action, and to highlight the intricate challenges faced by referees during the heat of the match.

    Through a joint venture named In-YS (In Your Shoes), Riedel Communications collaborated with referees Patrick Kessel and Nicolas Winter to develop RefCam. Their partnership ensured that the camera system was designed with a deep understanding of referees’ needs and concerns regarding the use of such technology.

    “We don’t want to change the game; our goal is to provide fresh perspectives and further increase the transparency of referees’ work,” said Nicolas Winter, Co-Founder and Managing Director, In-YS. “Our camera shows unmediated reality, the true speed at which we must make decisions. We hope that this will increase appreciation of our work among fans and athletes — and help counteract the current shortage of young referees.”

    RefCam comprises a head-mounted camera integrated with a transmission system. Because the headgear is ultra-lightweight, weighing just 6 grams, it is barely noticeable for the wearer. The system is available in live and record-only versions, and it features a mute and shutdown function for the microphone to ensure privacy for the referee using the system.

    The footage captured by RefCam during the Bundesliga match was featured in the 30-minute program “Referees Mic’d up – Bundesliga,” produced by DFL Digital Sports. This program, aired on March 12, was distributed to both national and international media partners, offering unprecedented insights into the world of soccer officiating. Approval to use the RefCam system was granted by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and in close coordination between DFB, DFL, and the participating clubs. While Riedel Communications used the record-only version of RefCam during this unique use case, the company has already demonstrated the system’s ability to produce broadcast-quality images during various events with national and international leagues.

    “RefCam is a Riedel innovation through and through,” said Jan Schaffner, Program Manager, Riedel Communications. “Following this successful Bundesliga debut, we will conduct a thorough review of RefCam’s performance in collaboration with Bundesliga officials. This evaluation will determine any necessary adjustments to optimize the technology for future use.”

    Looking forward, RefCam is set to be a prominent offering from Riedel’s Managed Technology division, which specializes in delivering custom-engineered technologies complemented by comprehensive support from Riedel’s team of qualified engineers. This division previously played a pivotal role in designing a reliable communication infrastructure for Bundesliga referees, showcasing Riedel’s commitment to enhancing sports broadcasting through technological innovation.

    “Our RefCam represents a significant leap forward in the live broadcasting of sports,” added Schaffner. “This innovative system promises to transform the way fans engage with sports, further cementing Riedel’s status as a pioneer in the field of communication and broadcasting technology.”

  • New Logitech Mevo Core 4K Camera Enables Seamless Wireless Live Streaming of Any Event, Anywhere

    New Logitech Mevo Core 4K Camera Enables Seamless Wireless Live Streaming of Any Event, Anywhere

    Logitech, a Swiss company founded in 1981, designs hardware and software solutions for businesses and individuals to pursue their passions, promoting good for people and the planet, with brands like Logitech, Logitech G, Streamlabs, and Ultimate Ears.

    Logitech International introduced Mevo Core, a new 4K live streaming camera designed for content creators and streamers. Mevo Core offers intuitive controls via a smartphone or tablet, interchangeable lenses, built-in Wi-Fi 6E support, and compatibility with the Mevo Multicam App for multi-camera setups.

    Mevo Core aims to simplify live content creation by providing professional-level features in a user-friendly package. It addresses the complexities and costs associated with traditional camera setups, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced content creators. The camera’s versatility, high-quality video capture, and integration with popular streaming platforms like YouTube and Twitch make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to enhance their live streaming capabilities.

    Today, Logitech International introduced Mevo Core, the next generation live streaming camera in the Mevo ecosystem.

    Mevo Core is a new intuitive 4K camera, built for live streaming and content creation, which can be fully controlled from a smartphone or tablet. Featuring a compact, sleek design with versatile mounting options, Mevo Core’s interchangeable lens design gives streamers thefreedom to accomplish high-quality results every time.

    “We are on a journey to democratize live content creation for everyone at any skilI level. Mevo Core embodies this value by bringing beautiful 4K DSLR level quality but with a fraction of the complexity of a traditional camera,” said Otto Cedeno, head of Mevo. “Every single aspect, from adjusting the optical zoom, to setting the right focus are simple taps, making it an incredibly accessible pro-level camera, even for beginners.”

    For many content creators, setting up a professional camera takes time and often requires added software, encoders and endless cords that can be costly and complicated to set up. Managing multiple devices can be discouraging, especially for new streamers that are looking to bring their vision to life with the highest quality possible. With Mevo Core, streamers get a professional 4k camera that plugs natively into a mobile production studio, the Mevo Multicam App, that they can take anywhere. The Mevo Multicam app is a free download available on the Apple App Store and in Google Play. With Mevo Multicam, content creators can connect and control several Mevo Core cameras at one time.

    With Mevo Core’s powerful 6-hour battery life and the power of built-in Wi-Fi 6E support, multiple Mevo Core devices can be connected at once and placed nearly anywhere. Designed with a Micro Four Thirds sensor, Mevo Core enables professional video capturing in fantastic 4K30p quality, and high-definition 1080p30 live streams. With Mevo Core’s Micro Four Thirds lens compatibility, content creators have the opportunity to choose the lens that works for them—simply tap to focus and start streaming.

    Mevo Core was designed from the ground up for customization and creativity. Creators can select a lens and adjust key professional features like aperture and focus. The built-in 3-mic array, enhanced with spatial audio processing and noise cancellation, allows the camera to detect and eliminate unwanted background noise. And content can be streamed directly to YouTube or Twitch—all with the power of Mevo Multicam.

    “Logitech’s Mevo Core is the best solution for my Multicam live streaming setup, both in the studio and while on tour with DragonForce,” said Grammy-nominated musician and content creator Herman Li.

    For more advanced scenarios, creators can now connect to additional workflows via the camera’s HDMI output and built-in NDI and SRT integration for an efficient video connectivity experience. Mevo Core can also be used as a wireless or wired HD webcam that is compatible with any computer running Mac or Windows. With these added-in capabilities, Mevo Core removes the limits of video connectivity and creates a more versatile production experience.

    Pricing and Availability

    Mevo Core is available now for $999 (camera body only) at Mevo.com, B&H Photo Video and Amazon in the US and Canada, and will be offered with lens bundles at select retailers. For more information and to view our video, please visit our company blog or www.logitech.com.

  • Hitachi Kokusai Now Shipping DK-H700 4K Box Camera

    Hitachi Kokusai Now Shipping DK-H700 4K Box Camera

    Hitachi Kokusai Electric America, Ltd., a subsidiary of Hitachi Kokusai Electric Inc., markets video cameras, digital transmission, processing, and recording devices for broadcast television, cable, video production, and industrial vision markets.

    Hitachi Kokusai is showcasing its DK-H700 4K box camera at the 2024 NAB Show, highlighting its exceptional visual quality, advanced features like HDR support and ND filter, and versatility for various applications including broadcast, professional AV, and government use.

    The DK-H700 offers a versatile solution for various production needs, providing high-quality imagery, flexibility in workflow configurations, and compatibility with industry standards. Its features address the demands of different sectors, from studio-based news production to medical applications, promising exceptional performance and value for customers. Additionally, Hitachi Kokusai’s demonstration of the SK-UHD7000 Series reinforces their commitment to providing cost-effective yet high-quality solutions for both current and future needs, with options for immediate 1080p quality and a path to 4K upgrades.

    The Hitachi tradition of delivering exceptional visual quality and superior price/performance value for live production applications continues at the 2024 NAB Show, where customers can see the now-shipping DK-H700 4K box camera in all its glory for the first time. On demonstration at Booth C4516 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (April 14-17), Hitachi Kokusai’s next-generation box camera suits a variety of high-end broadcast, professional AV and government applications.

    Shown as a reference display to NAB audiences last year, visitors to NAB Show 2024 will get a true sense of the camera DK-H700’s smooth operability, artistic capabilities and striking visual quality. The latter two benefits are amplified through the camera’s advanced digital signal processing and HDR support. The DK-H700’s design also includes 2/3-inch, RGB 3-chips, 8.3 million pixel each CMOS sensors., Collectively, these features add up to produce sharp and clear images with minimal noise, lifelike color fidelity, and extraordinary sensitivity.

    The DK-H700 is a multi-format solution that complies with ITU-R.BT-2020 wide color gamut specs and operates within REC BT2100 High Dynamic Range standards. These allow content creators to produce independent programs in a dual workflow configuration for both HDTV and/or UHD SDI output formats. The new DK-H700 has also added a ¼ ND filter to be able to produce a shallow depth of field with iris opened, which will add to artistic value and reduce the Moire Effect on video walls. Providing the ability to produce shallow Depth of Field, while also having 2/3” Native Global Shutter sensors for maximum depth of field, offers the best of both worlds in creating a maximum artistic experience.

    “This offers a versatile solution for customers across all of Hitachi Kokusai’s business verticals, and shines in studio-based news production, indoor and outdoor venues, and even brings a premium level of detailed reality to ophthalmology and other medical procedures,” said Kenneth Cyr, National Sales Manager. “We are excited to show our customers how the DK-H700 can play the lead role in their productions, or used to complement larger shoots when paired with our SK-UHD7000 Series of 4K/UHD cameras.”

    Hitachi Kokusai will also demonstrate its SK-UHD7000 Series, including the now-shipping SK-UHD7000-S2 camera introduced last year. The SK-UHD7000-S2 is a multi-format camera with an affordable license option for 4K. This offers a lower initial purchase point for customers that want high-quality 1080p immediately and a field-upgradeable path to 4K.

     

     

  • Humly Strengthens Bond with Exertis Brand for In-Country Distribution

    Humly Strengthens Bond with Exertis Brand for In-Country Distribution

    Humly is a company that optimizes modern workplaces by reducing frustration and time spent by knowledge workers. It offers self-developed meeting room screens and flexible desk booking solutions, facilitating frequent activities and reducing disruptions.

    Humly has announced exclusive distribution partnerships with Exertis Pro AV businesses in Italy, Portugal, and Spain, following similar partnerships in Canada, Scandinavia, and the Benelux region. This collaboration aims to expand the availability of Humly’s workplace solutions, including hardware and software products, throughout these regions.

    This partnership allows Humly to leverage the established distribution networks and expertise of Exertis Pro AV businesses to penetrate new markets effectively. By partnering with Exertis, Humly gains access to dedicated in-country divisions and teams with knowledge of local business trends and cultures, enabling them to better serve corporate customers and expand their global presence.

    Humly continues to aggressively build out its global channel partner network to bring its increasingly recognized brand of workplace solutions to more countries worldwide. Following recent announcements on new partnerships serving Scandinavia and the Benelux region, Humly today announces that dedicated Exertis businesses will exclusively represent Humly for distribution services in Italy, Portugal and Spain, effective immediately.

    The announcement comes several months following Exertis Pro AV Canada’s announcement that it would exclusively distribute Humly workplace solutions throughout Canada. Exertis Pro AV Italy, Exertis Pro AV Portugal, and Exertis Pro AV Spain will provide sales, marketing, business development and customer support services in their respective countries for Humly’s premium hardware and software solutions.

    The entire range of Humly Workplace Solutions (Humly Room Display, Humly Booking Device, Humly Wayfinding, Humly Reservations, Humly Visitor, and Humly Floor Plan), and the associated Humly Control Panel for centralized management and monitoring, are ideal complements to existing AV solutions offered through each Exertis Pro AV business’s extensive brand portfolio. That includes two new recent accessories for the award-winning Humly Booking Device introduced earlier this month at ISE 2024 that support automatic desk height adjustments, occupancy sensing, and PoE powering.

    “The Humly brand has experienced a significant boost in recognition worldwide over the past 12 months thanks to strategic channel partner expansion, an amplified presence at key industry tradeshows, and technology innovations that offer immediate real-world benefits for the return to office movement,” said Anders Karlsson, CEO of Humly. “The Exertis Pro AV brand is among the most well-known and well-respected distribution enterprises worldwide, with dedicated in-country divisions and teams that understand the trends and cultures of doing business in the countries. We look forward to working with all three divisions to help their corporate vertical customers free their minds at work using Humly Workplace Solutions.”

     

  • Crestron Debuts New 1 Beyond Optical Zoom Cameras, Bringing an Unrivaled Intelligent Video Experience to the Most Important Meeting Spaces

    Crestron Debuts New 1 Beyond Optical Zoom Cameras, Bringing an Unrivaled Intelligent Video Experience to the Most Important Meeting Spaces

    Crestron develops technology for various work environments, enhancing communication and collaboration through cloud-based platforms, devices, and systems. Their solutions aim to improve productivity, speed, and efficiency, ensuring better work experiences worldwide.

    Crestron Electronics has launched its 1 Beyond PTZ camera line, featuring four new cameras with optical zoom, built-in Visual AI framing and tracking capabilities, and standard PTZ cameras that complement the Crestron Automate VX multi-camera speaker tracking solution.

    This new camera line caters to the demand for automated cameras in larger meeting spaces. It includes intelligent PTZ models equipped with Visual AI for enhanced framing and tracking, alongside standard PTZ models that integrate seamlessly with the Crestron Automate VX speaker tracking solution. The cameras are certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom Rooms, providing flexibility for both room solutions and standalone usage, with the aim of fostering meeting equity and engagement.

    Crestron Electronics, a leading global provider of workplace collaboration technology, today announces the launch of the new 1 Beyond PTZ camera line. This line includes four all-new cameras, each equipped with optical zoom to uphold the integrity and pixel quality of the images captured. A thoughtfully developed lineup includes the i12 and i20 which boast built-in Visual AI framing and tracking capabilities, as well as the p12 and p20 which are standard PTZ cameras that complement the groundbreaking features of the Crestron Automate VX multi-camera speaker tracking solution.

    The new Crestron 1 Beyond PTZ camera line addresses a critical need for automated cameras suited to provide the premium experience required in larger meeting spaces. In-room participants must be captured clearly and framed properly no matter where they are seated, elevating meeting equity and engagement. Static wide shots of a large meeting space are not sufficient to foster connection and communication among in-person and remote participants, and low-quality digital zoom or jerky automated PTZ movements can cause remote participants to disengage.

    Designed for premium performance and easy install, the cameras offer the flexibility to be used as part of a room solution or standalone. Each of the new cameras is in certification for Microsoft Teams® and Zoom Rooms® software, and were designed in-house to integrate seamlessly with Crestron Flex solutions powering a one-touch meeting experience for Microsoft Teams or Zoom Rooms software: With a single tap, users can initiate an automated, broadcast-quality video production that immerses live participants and results in high-quality collaboration for all.

    Intelligent PTZ Cameras With Visual AI
    The Crestron 1 Beyond i12 and i20 models are intelligent PTZ cameras boasting built-in Visual AI, perfect for enhancing framing and tracking in medium to large rooms.

    An onboard processing unit and built-in reference camera allow the i12 and i20 to swiftly and intelligently frame and track groups, presenters, or zones. Industry-leading Crestron Visual AI detects and tracks a speaker even when the subject is turned away or wearing a mask, and anticipates behaviors for smooth, natural camera movement.

    The i12 model, designed for medium to large spaces, offers 12x optical zoom and can be used for either group framing or basic presenter tracking up to 25 feet. Using Visual AI, two i12 cameras can be paired together and when someone enters or exits a designated zone the cameras will switch automatically. The i20 model is tailored for large and extra-large spaces, providing 20x optical zoom. It features enhanced presenter tracking up to 50 feet with group tracking and preset zones.

    Standard PTZ Cameras With Speaker Tracking
    The Crestron 1 Beyond p12 and p20 models are standard PTZ cameras. The p12 is suitable for medium and large rooms with 12x optical zoom, while the p20 is ideal for large and extra-large rooms, offering 20x optical zoom.

    Crestron 1 Beyond cameras are designed for flexible deployment as standalone devices or as part of a multicamera solution. Using Crestron Automate VX multi-camera speaker tracking solution, up to 12 cameras can be leveraged in a single space with automatic switching, framing, and tracking based on who is speaking so every angle can be captured.

    “The new Crestron 1 Beyond cameras are the latest leap forward in our growing portfolio of hybrid work solutions,” says Brad Hintze, EVP of global marketing at Crestron. “These cameras are designed to redefine the video experience in larger meeting spaces, ensuring that every participant, no matter their location in the room, is captured with perfect clarity for a professional video experience. This innovation is a testament to our commitment to enhancing meeting equity and engagement in the evolving landscape of workplace collaboration.”

    To experience these cameras and more, visit Crestron at stand #3H300 during ISE® 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. To learn more about the new 1 Beyond camera line, please visit the blog.

    Availability
    The new Crestron 1 Beyond PTZ cameras are now available for order. Get more information at www.crestron.com.

     

  • AVer Launches AmpliWave Classroom Audio Solution at FETC 2024

    AVer Launches AmpliWave Classroom Audio Solution at FETC 2024

    Aver is the provider of education technology and video collaboration camera solutions, enhances productivity and learning, utilizing AI, USB, document cameras, and green processes.

    AVer Information Inc. will attend the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC)  to unveil its latest innovation, the AmpliWave Classroom Audio Solution.

    The AmpliWave system, boasting a plug-and-play configuration, anti-howling technology, and the capability to project microphone audio, is considered a significant advancement by AVer. It is user-friendly design, easy setup, and competitive pricing. AVer’s participation in the conference is driven by the desire to connect with educators and technologists, presenting them with cutting-edge solutions for the education sector.

    AVer Information Inc. , the award-winning provider of video collaboration and education technology solutions, has announced their participation at the Future of Education Technology®️ Conference (FETC), where educators and technologists engage with the thought leaders and pioneers leading the charge in classrooms, schools, and districts. AVer is set to unveil its latest innovation, the AmpliWave Classroom Audio Solution, while also showcasing a lineup of award-winning classroom solutions designed to keep students engaged in any learning environment.

    AmpliWave is a wireless audio amplification system that will change the way students listen and learn in the classroom. With its plug-and-play receiver, wall-mount speakers, and wireless microphones, AmpliWave empowers teachers to manage their classroom through the power of their amplified voice with a range up to 1500 sq ft, or 60 feet. AmpliWave also offers anti-howling technology that removes distracting audio interference and distortion. AmpliWave’s speakers can simultaneously project microphone audio along with other sources like background music or sound effects to elevate lesson content. The included wireless mics are packed with an industry-leading 8 to 10 hours of talk time so they can be used for a full school day. With their fast-charging capability, microphones can reach a 10% charge in approximately 10 minutes using the provided charger.

    “We are excited to offer a new innovation in the audio product category this year with AmpliWave, aiming to empower educators in cultivating engagement and facilitating optimal learning experiences for both students and teachers alike,” says Aalap Patel, Director of Product- ProAV/K12, AVer Information Inc. “AmpliWave will be a game changer with its ease of use, plug and play setup and attractive price point compared to our competitors.”

    AVer will be debuting the new U50+ USB FlexArm Document Camera, award winning B30, E36C+, and C36i+ charging solutions. Join AVer at FETC on January 24-26 at the Orange County Convention Center booth #909 in Orlando, FL.