Canon XHA1 User manual

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C
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The XH G1and XH A1High Definition camcorders reflect
decades of Canon leadership and know-how in the design
and manufacture of cameras and lenses for professional
video and still photography. Videographers get not only outstanding HD image quality but
also the operability, flexibility, reliability, and connectivity that professionals demand of
their gear. The Canon XH G1and XH A1deliver the technologies, performance, and features
that make them serious tools for the capture of creative HD content. Put them to work.
They’ll help videographers get the job done with efficiency, excellence, and expression.
Your Vision...
XH A1
XH G1
in High Definition.

54
Super-Range Optical Image Stabilization
Canon’s Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) uses a
gyro sensor to detect camera movement and acti-
vate the Lens Shift System to continuously compensate for
shake and jitter. The 20x HD video zoom lens on the XH G1
and XH A1incorporates Canon’s Super-Range IS Technology,
which further improves low-frequency vibration control by
using two detection methods (gyro and vector). The image at
the CCD sensor is analyzed, providing additional feedback
to the lens shift element for even greater compensation and
precision. The result is highly reliable camera shake correction, even
at long focal lengths, without any image degradation.
Comprehensive Focus and Zoom Control
The Focus, Zoom, and Manual Iris Rings provide the “feel” of a
professional broadcast lens. It allows fine, smooth adjustment in
1/8th-stop increments manually. The XH G1and XH A1provide
superb response, enabling zoom speed control by varying the
angle of rotation of the zoom ring with a High-Speed Zoom Mode.
Zoom speed can be variable or constant with 16 possible speed
level settings. Programmable lens presets enable repetitive focus
and zoom actions to be memorized for instant recall.
True HD 1080 Capture with Choice of
Frame Rates
The XH G1and XH A1capture true 1080 High-Definition video, pro-
viding images of stunning clarity. Moreover, the frame rate is selectable:
Capture and output video in 60i, 30F, or 24F as needed to deliver
spectacular clarity or evoke the look and feel of film and episodic TV. A
50i/25F option is available, requiring modification at a Canon Service
Center. Modified cameras offer the option of switching to 50i or 60i
capture in HD mode and PAL or NTSC compatibility in SD modes.
Built-In Neutral Density Filters
Two built-in Neutral Density (ND) filters (1/6and 1/32) reduce expo-
sure by two or five stops for added image control. They can be used,
for example, when shooting bright, sunlit exteriors or to decrease
depth of field for a more dramatic, cinematic look. A focus distance
readout in the viewfinder assists in setting manual focus.
Instant AF
Instant AF is Canon’s next-genera-
tion autofocus technology. A new
external sensor works in combi-
nation with Canon’s proven high-
performance internal AF system
to dramatically reduce focusing time and increasing
accuracy, even in low-light or high brightness situa-
tions. Focusing performance is also much improved with difficult
subjects. The high resolution of HD video makes focus more critical
than ever, and Canon’s Instant AF helps videographers capture HD
images with expert precision.
Genuine Canon 20x HD L Series Zoom Lens
HD image quality starts
with optics, and the XH G1
and XH A1deliver the many benefits
of Canon’s world-renowned lens
technologies. The Genuine Canon 20x
HD video zoom lens is a professional
L Series lens, incorporating Fluorite
and Ultra-Low-Dispersion elements. This state-of-the-art design
ensures outstanding resolution, contrast, and color reproduction,
delivering image quality throughout the entire zoom range unmatched
by conventional optics. The 20x zoom covers an exceptionally wide
and useful range of focal lengths—from 32.5–650mm (35mm
photography equivalent), an optional 0.8x HD Wide Angle Adapter
is available—assuring unmatched versatility for a wide range of
shooting applications.
Three 1/3" Native 16:9 CCDs (1440 x 1080)
A sophisticated 3CCD design employs sepa-
rate native 16:9sensors for each primary
color. With 1.67 million pixels (1440 x1080)
per sensor, the effective pixel count of the
XH G1and XH A1is significantly higher than
that of comparable HD camcorders. Canon’s
superior design thus delivers outstanding picture quality at 1080
HD resolution. It further ensures highly accurate color with wide
dynamic range and virtually no color noise.
DIGIC DV II HD Image Processor
Engineered and manufactured by Canon,
the DIGIC Digital Signal Processing chip
(DSP) uses proprietary algorithms and architecture
to deliver the highest image quality at the highest
operating speeds. The latest-generation DIGIC DV II
HD Processor is designed for HD video, operating
at 1440 x1080 pixels with 4:2:2color sampling. A new hybrid
noise reduction system uses dual processes to improve image
clarity in monotone and shadow areas. Color reproduction has
also been improved, especially in skin tone areas and with dark
and light scenes. The DSP also enables high-quality still image
recording in either video or digital camera color spaces.
without Super-Range Optical Image Stabilizer
True HD Image Quality...
Because Professional Standard is Canon’s Standard.

Industry Standard Connection Terminals (XH G1 only)
While there are many situations that call for smaller,
lighter HD cameras, most such products are unsuit-
able for professional applications because they
lack the necessary interface capability. The Canon
XH G1features HD-SDI (SMPTE 299M) or SD-SDI
(SMPTE 272M) output, Genlock input, and SMPTE
Time Code in/out connectors.
HD-SDI—The HD-SDI output provides a 1,485Gbps
60i signal at 1920 x 1080 resolution and with
4:2:2 color sampling with embedded audio and
time code. Because a single industry standard connection carries
video, audio, SMPTE (LTC) Time Code, and digital audio, cabling
complexity is significantly reduced. It enables longer cable runs,
improves operator mobility, and simplifies cabling.
Genlock—The Genlock input enables multi-camera synchroniza-
tion in live-switched environments. It can accept either an SD
(black burst) or HD (tri-level) sync signal when shooting HD.
SMPTE Time Code—A switchable SMPTE input/output port accom-
modates time code requirements during multi-camera shoots and
post-production.
Shutter Speeds
When shooting with the shutter priority auto exposure mode, the
XH G1and XH A1provide 14 different shutter speeds ranging from
1/3to 1/15,000 of a second. The 24F mode includes a 1/48 second
setting that perfectly matches the shutter speed of a motion picture
film camera. (For NTSC 60i/30F and PAL 50i/25F, there are 13 avail-
able settings.)
Superior Connectivity
The XH G1and XH A1include a full complement of input and output
ports to meet just about any interface requirement. Two XLR mic/line
audio inputs accommodate professional balanced connections.
Also provided are industry standard connectors, including component
(HD/SD) and composite video outputs (BNC/RCA), an IEEE 1394
(Firewire) port, a LANC terminal, and a headphone jack.
Audio Recording Control
Individual audio level controls, switchable 20 dB mic attenuation,
12 dB mic gain boost, and various monitoring options provide full
control over the sound as it is recorded. They even include switch-
able phantom power (+48V) to eliminate the need for any external
power supply with direct mic input. An external microphone holder
is provided for on-camera mounting and for an optionalprofessional
shotgun microphone.
6
A Perfect Fit for Professional
Production Environments.
7
HD-SDI
HD-SDI
HD-SDI
Sync Generator
HD Switcher
Program
Out
Mixer
HDV / DV Interface DV (IEEEE 1394) Cable
HDV (Video, Sound, Time Code)
mic 1
mic 2
Mixer
mic 1
mic 2
GENLOCK in
GENLOCK in
GENLOCK in
HDV
HDV
HDV
HDV
HD-SDI
TC inTC in
GENLOCK in GENLOCK in
VTR (HDCAM, HD D5,
DVD PRO HD etc)
VTR (HDCAM, HD D5,
DVD PRO HD etc)
Time code Generator
Sync Generator
TC in
GENLOCK in
Audio
in
GENLOCK in Audio
out
GENLOCK in
Audio recorder
(DAT etc)
Non-linear
Editing
System
or
Linear
Editing
System
HDV
HDV
HD Live Solution
HD-SDI Solution
HD/HDV NLE Solution
Representative Block Diagram of Interconnections between Various
Production Equipment

Image Enhancement
The XH G1and XH A1provide advanced features that improve image
viewability and maximize visual appeal. Skin Detail mode minimizes
imperfections, such as blemishes and wrinkles, without removing
detail in other areas of the image. Three intensity levels are provided,
and an alternating zebra pattern in the viewfinder simplifies
the process of selecting the desired
area for the effect. Sky Detail can be
used to enhance outdoor footage by
removing unwanted detail and noise in
the sky. Clear Scan eliminates the flicker
and black bands that usually result
when shooting a computer or other CRT
screen. Frequency is adjustable from
50.2Hz to 200.3Hz to accommodate a
wide variety of monitors.
Program AE Modes
Seven programmed Auto Exposure modes
simplify the selection of camera settings
for a variety of everyday and special
shooting situations.
Easy Recording—This “point-and-shoot”
mode lets the camera make all the key
decisions. The camcorder automatically
sets focus, shutter speed, aperture,
gain, white balance, and AE program
shift as required to deliver the most
pleasing video images.
Auto—Similar to Easy Recording, this
mode also provides point-and-shoot
operating simplicity. However, it gives
the operator the option of manually
changing the settings.
Shutter Priority—The user selects the
shutter speed, and the camera auto-
matically selects the proper aperture
for correct exposure.
Aperture Priority—The user selects
the lens aperture, and the camera auto-
matically selects the proper shutter
speed for correct exposure.
Manual—The user can select any
combination of aperture and shutter
speed. Indicators in the viewfinder
show the relation of selected combina-
tions to the exposure as metered by
the camera.
Spotlight—This mode automatically
adjusts exposure for optimum results when the subject is illumi-
nated by concentrated light source (such as a spotlight) while the
background is relatively dark.
Night—The camera uses slower shutter speeds to enable capture
as ambient light levels begin to fall.
Total Image Control
By giving the operator total control of more than 23 independently
adjustable variables, the XH G1and XH A1enable the capture of
the perfect look in HD.
Gain Settings—Select automatic gain control or one of 3preset gains
(low, medium, or high), which can be assigned values from -3dB
to +36 dB.
White Balance—Numerous white balance modes are provided to
ensure color accuracy in a variety of shooting situations. The auto-
matic modes use a high-precision 128-segment through-the-lens
metering system.
Auto—Provides automatic adjustment of white balance.
Outdoor—Balances for bright sunlight (5600°K), can be customized.
Indoor—Balances for incandescent lighting (3200°K), can be cus-
tomized.
Color Temperature—Balances to a specifically selected value between
2800–12000°K in 100°K increments.
Custom Presets A and B—Enables two manual
white balance settings to be programmed for
instant recall.
Black—Three settings (STRETCH, MIDDLE, PRESS)
provide a choice of dynamic range adjustment
affecting the dark areas of the image. STRETCH
expands the range, providing greater shadow
detail. PRESS narrows the range, increasing the deep black con-
tent of the image.
Knee—Four settings (AUTO, HIGH, MIDDLE, LOW) provide a choice
of dynamic range (knee point) adjustment in the highlight areas
to control overexposure when shooting high-brightness subjects.
The HIGH setting enables high-key shooting, while the LOW setting
provides maximum protection from overexposure.
Gamma—The NORMAL gamma curve provides the best results for
conventional viewing on a TV monitor. CINE 1creates images that
resemble the quality and appearance of film as viewed on TV. The
CINE 2setting selects an appropriate gamma curve for images that
are to be transferred to film.
Master Pedestal—Adjustments from -9to +9sets the video refer-
ence black. Higher values brighten the darker areas of the image,
reducing overall contrast.
Setup Level—Black level can be adjusted from -9to +9.
Sharpness—Image sharpness can be adjusted from -9to +9.
Horizontal Detail Frequency (HIGH, MIDDLE, LOW)—Adjusts the H
detail center frequency. Horizontal/Vertical Detail Balance (-9to +9)
adjusts the H/V proportion of the detail correction.
Noise Reduction 1and Noise Reduction 2(both with OFF, HIGH,
MIDDLE, LOW settings)—Provide a variety of methods and levels
of noise reduction to accommodate numerous shooting situations
and desired image qualities.
Color Matrix—NORMAL, CINE 1, and CINE 2adjust the color during the
shooting. The NORMAL setting is a matrix based on the assumption
that images will be reviewed on a TV monitor. If CINE 1is selected,
the resulting quality and grayscale resemble those of a movie film.
This is a matrix for creating images on TV that appear like movies. The
CINE 2setting is a matrix that is for images being transferred to film.
Color Gain/Phase—Adjustable from -50 to +50 and -9 to +9
respectively.
Master Red, Blue, and Green Gain settings—Independently adjustable
from -50 to +50, provide precise control over color balance.
Six Color Matrixes—RG, RB, GR, GB, BR, and BG matrixes, each
independently adjustable from -50 to +50, provide even finer color
control capability by altering two of the three primaries.
98
Canon Console Software
Canon Console is an advanced software package developed to
address the creative needs of XH G1and XH A1users. Incorporating
many of the traditional aspects of a camera control unit, Console
runs on a laptop or desktop computer and provides tools for creative
expression as well as remote access to basic camera settings and
operations. Functions, such as a vectorscope and waveform monitor,
enable critical evaluation of the
camera signal. Users can also
capture the camera’s video output
directly to a computer’s hard drive.
Console’s REC PANEL includes
five windows:
Rec Viewer—Live video, clip count-
er, audio meter and controls,
color/monochrome settings,
split-screen, and zebra levels.
Camera Control—Remote opera-
tion of most camera functions.
Vector and Waveform Monitors—
Professional tools for checking
video signal quality.
Focus Assist—Aids for achieving
precise focus, such as electronic zoom and black-and-white view.
Custom Preset—Multiple settings for comprehensive image control.
Console’s PLAY PANEL features three windows that enable review
of captured footage or recall of any existing clips or stills that may
be stored on a hard drive or memory card:
Play Viewer—Displays selected clip with a running counter. Users
can adjust playback speed and view audio monitor settings.
File Browser—Enables users to select the clip to be shown in the
Play Viewer.
Vector and Waveform Monitors—Enables critical evaluation of
recorded material.
Black
Noise Reduction 1
Vector and Waveform Monitors
Canon Console Software
Skin Detail
Sky Detail
Shutter Priority
Create with Precision.
Control Your Capture...