Panasonic AGHPX500P - MEMORY CARD CAMERA RECORDER User manual

Before operating this product, please read the instructions carefully and save this manual for future use.
0000000000-0
Printed in Japan VQT1G18-0
ENGLISH
Operating Instructions
Memory Card Camera Recorder
DEUTSCH Für Erlauterungen in Deutsch, konsultieren Sie bitte die mitgelieferte CD-ROM.
FRANÇAIS Pour des explications on français, veuillez vous reporter au CD-ROM fourni.
ITALIANO Per le istruzioni in italiano, vedere il CD-ROM in dotazione.
ESPAÑOL Para la explicacion en español, consulte el CD-ROM uministrado.
Model No. AG-HPX500P
Model No. AG-HPX500E

2Read this first!
CAUTION:
In order to maintain adequate
ventilation, do not install or place this
unit in a bookcase, built-in cabinet or
any other confined space. To prevent
risk of electric shock or fire hazard due
to overheating, ensure that curtains and
any other materials do not obstruct the
ventilation.
FCC Note:
This equipment has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for a class A digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated
in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy, and if not installed and used
in accordance with the instruction manual,
may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment
in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be
required to correct the interference at his own
expense.
Warning:
To assure continued FCC emission limit
compliance, the user must use only shielded
interface cables when connecting to external
units. Also, any unauthorized changes or
modifications to this equipment could void the
user’s authority to operate it.
Caution:
● The interior of this product contains
high-voltage components. Do not
disassemble the product.
● Do not point the eyepiece directly at
the sun.
WARNING:
● TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
● TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE
OR SHOCK HAZARD, KEEP
THIS EQUIPMENT AWAY FROM
ALL LIQUIDS. USE AND STORE
ONLY IN LOCATIONS WHICH ARE
NOT EXPOSED TO THE RISK OF
DRIPPING OR SPLASHING LIQUIDS,
AND DO NOT PLACE ANY LIQUID
CONTAINERS ON TOP OF THE
EQUIPMENT.
CAUTIONS:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD AND ANNOYING
INTERFERENCE, USE THE
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES ONLY.
indicates safety information.
Read this first!

3
Read this first!
<For USA and Canada>
A rechargeable battery that is recyclable powers the product you have purchased.
<For USA-California Only>
This product contains a CR Coin Cell Lithium Battery which contains Perchlorate Material — special handling
may apply.
See www.dtsc.ca/gov/hazardouswaste.perchlorate.
Attention/Attentie
ENGLISH
● Batteries are used for the main power source and memory back-up in the product.
At the end of their useful life, you should not throw them away.
Instead, hand them in as small chemical waste.
NETHERLANDS
● Voor de primaire voeding en het reservegeheugen van het apparaat wordt
gebruikgemaakt van een batterij.
Wanneer de batterij is uitgeput, mag u deze niet gewoon weggooien, maar dient u
deze als klein chemisch afval weg te doen.
TO REMOVE BATTERY
Main Power Battery (Ni-Cd / Ni-MH / Li-ion Battery)
● To detach the battery, please proceed in the reverse order of the installation method described in this manual.
● If a battery made by any other manufacturer is to be used, check the Operating Instructions accompanying the
battery.
Back-up Battery (Lithium Battery)
● For the removal of the battery for disposal at the end of its service life, please consult your dealer.
Read this first!

4Precautions for Use
Precautions for Use
Caution regarding laser beams
The CCD may be damaged if it is subjected to light from a laser beam.
When using the camera-recorder in locations where laser irradiation equipment is used, be careful not to allow
the laser beam to shine directly on the lens.
PLEASE NOTE:
● When preparing to record important images, always shoot some advance test footage, to verify that both
pictures and sound are being recorded normally.
● Should video or audio recording fail due to a malfunction of this camera-recorder or the P2 cards used, we
will not assume liability for such failure.
Disposing and transferring ownership of memory card devices
Formatting or deleting a memory card device in this camera or a PC will only change file management data
and leave data on the card intact. It is recommended that the card either be physically destroyed or that
commercially sold software be used to completely delete any data on the card. Note that managing card data is
the owner’s responsibility.
Information on software for this product
1. Included with this product is software licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL) and GNU
Lesser General Public License (LGPL), and users are hereby informed that they have the right to obtain,
change and redistribute the source codes of this software.
Details on GPL and LGPL can be found on the installation CD provided with the unit. Refer to the folder
called “LDOC”.
(Details are given in the original (English-language) text.)
To obtain the source codes, go to the following home page:
http://panasonic.biz/sav/.
The manufacturer asks users to refrain from directing inquiries concerning the source codes they have
obtained and other details to its representatives.
2. Included with this product is software which is licensed under MIT-License.
Details on MIT-License can be found on the installation CD provided with the unit. Refer to the folder called
“LDOC”.
(Details are given in the original (English-language) text.)
Trademarks
● SD logo is a trademark.
● Unislot is a trademark of Ikegami Tsushinki Co., Ltd.
● Apple, Macintosh, Mac OS are registered trademarks or trademarks of Apple, Inc. in the United States and/or
other countries.
● Windows is a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.
● Other names of companies and products are trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective
companies.

5
Contents
Contents
Precautions for Use ...........................................................................................4
Chapter 1
Introduction
Chapter 2
Parts and their
Functions
Chapter 3
Recording and
Playback
Chapter 4
Adjustments
and Settings for
Recording
Camera Unit Features ........................................................................................8
Recording and Playback Features .................................................................10
Outline of operations .......................................................................................12
Flow of shooting, playing and saving .........................................................12
Saving and editing on external devices .....................................................13
System Configuration ......................................................................................14
Power Supply and Accessory Mounting Section .......................................15
Audio (input) Function Section ...................................................................16
Audio (output) Function Section ................................................................18
Shooting and Recording/Playback Functions Section ..............................19
Menu Operation Section ............................................................................24
Time Code Section ....................................................................................25
Warning and Status Display Functions ......................................................26
LCD Monitor ...............................................................................................26
Viewfinder ..................................................................................................27
Setting Date and Time of Internal Clock ....................................................... 28
P2 Cards ........................................................................................................... 30
Inserting P2 Cards .................................................................................... 30
Removing P2 Cards ...................................................................................31
To Prevent Accidental Erasure of P2 Card Content .................................. 32
P2 CARD ACCESS LED and status of P2 cards ...................................... 32
Basic Procedures ............................................................................................ 33
Shooting .................................................................................................... 34
Normal Recording ..................................................................................... 35
Variable Frame Rate (VFR) Recording .......................................................... 36
Native recording ........................................................................................ 36
Standard recording ....................................................................................37
Using variable frame rates (VFR) ..............................................................37
Special Recording Modes .............................................................................. 39
Pre-recording (PRE REC) ......................................................................... 39
Interval recording (INTERVAL REC) ......................................................... 39
One-shot recording (ONE-SHOT REC) .................................................... 40
Loop recording (LOOP REC) .....................................................................41
Recording Check Function .........................................................................41
Shot Marker (SHOT MARK) Recording Function ......................................42
Text Memo Recording Function .................................................................42
Normal and Variable Speed Playback ........................................................... 43
Video and recording formats ......................................................................... 44
Multiple HD/SD formats ............................................................................ 44
Selecting recording signals in CAMERA MODE ....................................... 44
Selecting MCR mode recording and playback signals ............................. 45
Selecting video output ............................................................................... 45
List of recording and output formats ......................................................... 46
List of recording, playback and output formats ......................................... 48
Adjusting the White balance and Black Balance ........................................ 49
Adjusting the White Balance ..................................................................... 49
Adjusting the Black Balance ......................................................................51
Setting the Electronic Shutter ....................................................................... 52
Shutter Modes ............................................................................................52
Setting the Shutter Mode and Speed .........................................................52
Placing the Camera-recorder in SYNCHRO SCAN Mode ........................ 53
Assigning functions to USER buttons ......................................................... 54
Selecting Audio Input Signals and Adjusting Recording Levels .............. 55
Selecting Audio Input Signals ................................................................... 55
Adjusting Recording Levels ...................................................................... 55
Selecting Function for the F. AUDIO LEVEL Control ................................ 56
CH3 and CH4 Recording Levels ............................................................... 56
Setting Time Data ............................................................................................ 57
Time data overview ....................................................................................57
Recording time codes and user bits ......................................................... 58

6Contents
Setting user bits .........................................................................................59
Setting the User Bits ..................................................................................59
Setting the Time Code ...............................................................................61
Externally Locking the Time Code ............................................................ 63
Outputting the time code externally .......................................................... 64
CTL Count Setting and Display ................................................................. 64
GENLOCK and time code input/output connection and setup ................. 65
Mode Check Screen Displays (MODE CHECK button function) .............. 65
Viewfinder Screen Status Displays .............................................................. 66
Lamps in the Viewfinder Screen ............................................................... 66
Viewfinder Status Indication Layout .......................................................... 66
Selecting Viewfinder Display Information ................................................. 66
Screen displays ..........................................................................................67
Warnings ....................................................................................................70
P2 card playback data indication ...............................................................70
Errors ..........................................................................................................71
Camera status display ................................................................................71
USER buttons assignment information (at mode check) ...........................71
! LED light indication (at mode check) .......................................................71
Checking and displaying shooting status .................................................72
Setting the Marker Displays .......................................................................72
Adjusting and setting the LCD monitor ........................................................ 73
Handling setup data .........................................................................................74
Configuration of setup data files ................................................................74
Handling SD memory cards .......................................................................75
Formatting, Writing and Reading an SD memory card ..............................75
How to Use Scene File Data ......................................................................76
Saving scene files and other settings on SD memory cards .....................78
Chapter 5
Preparation
Chapter 6
Manipulating Clips
with Thumbnails
Power Supply .................................................................................................. 80
Mounting the Battery and Setting the Battery Type .................................. 80
Using an AC Power Supply ....................................................................... 82
Mounting the Viewfinder and Adjusting its Position .................................. 84
Mounting the Viewfinder ........................................................................... 84
Adjusting Viewfinder Right-Left Position ................................................... 84
Adjusting Viewfinder Front-to-Rear Position ............................................. 85
Diopter Adjustments .................................................................................. 85
Screen Adjustments .................................................................................. 85
Removing the Viewfinder .......................................................................... 86
Mounting the lens and Performing the Flange Back Adjustment ............. 87
Preparing for Audio Input .............................................................................. 89
When Using the Front Microphone ........................................................... 89
When Using Audio Devices ....................................................................... 90
Attaching Accessories ....................................................................................91
Mounting the Camera on a Tripod .............................................................91
Attaching the Shoulder Strap .................................................................... 92
Attaching the Rain Cover .......................................................................... 92
Attaching the F. AUDIO LEVEL Control Knob .......................................... 92
Connecting the AJ-RC10G Extension Controller ........................................ 93
Thumbnail Operations .................................................................................... 94
Thumbnail Overview ................................................................................. 94
Thumbnail Screen ..................................................................................... 95
Selecting Thumbnails ................................................................................ 95
Switching the Thumbnail Display .............................................................. 96
Setting the Thumbnail Display Mode .........................................................97
Clip Operations ............................................................................................... 98
Playing Back Clips .................................................................................... 98
Shot Mark .................................................................................................. 98
Deleting Clips ............................................................................................ 99
Restoring Clips .......................................................................................... 99
Setting of Clip Meta Data ............................................................................. 100
Formatting P2 and SD Memory Cards .........................................................103
Formatting a P2 Card ...............................................................................103
Formatting SD memory cards ..................................................................103
Properties .......................................................................................................104

7
Contents
Viewfinder and LCD Menus ..........................................................................107
Using the menus ......................................................................................107
Initializing the menu settings ....................................................................108
Setup menu structure ....................................................................................109
Camera (CAM) mode menu .....................................................................109
MCR mode menu ..................................................................................... 110
Setup menu list .............................................................................................. 111
SCENE FILE screen ................................................................................. 111
CAMERA SETUP screen ......................................................................... 112
SW MODE screen .................................................................................... 113
RECORDING SETUP screen .................................................................. 114
AUDIO SETUP screen ............................................................................. 115
OUTUT SEL screen ................................................................................. 116
DISPLAY SETUP screen ......................................................................... 116
BATTERY SETUP screen ........................................................................ 117
CARD FUNCTIONS screen ..................................................................... 118
LENS SETUP screen ............................................................................... 118
OTHER FUNCTIONS screen ................................................................... 119
VF! LED screen ........................................................................................120
Chapter 8
Connecting to
External Devices
Chapter 9
Maintenance and
Inspections
Chapter 10
Specifications
Connecting to External Devices Using USB2.0 Port (PC mode) ..............121
Procedures for establishing a connection with a PC ...............................121
Connecting to external devices using the IEEE1394 connector
(PC mode) .................................................................................................122
Procedures for establishing a connection with a PC ...............................122
Procedures for connecting a hard disk ....................................................123
Warnings ..................................................................................................124
DVCPRO DV Connection via 1394 Connector .............................................125
Recording DVCPRO DV signals input to 1394 connector .......................125
P2 card recording times ...........................................................................126
Inspections Before Shooting ........................................................................127
Preparing for Inspections .........................................................................127
Inspecting the Camera Unit .....................................................................128
Inspecting the Memory Recording Functions ..........................................128
Maintenance ...................................................................................................131
Cleaning Inside the Viewfinder ................................................................131
Eyepiece Care ..........................................................................................131
Phenomenon Inherent to CCD Cameras .................................................131
Charging the internal battery ....................................................................131
Warning System .............................................................................................132
Warning Description Tables .....................................................................132
Updating Camera Drivers ..............................................................................134
Dimensions and specifications ....................................................................135
Dimensions ..............................................................................................135
Specifications ...........................................................................................136
Connector signal description .......................................................................139
Chapter 7
Menu Operations
Clip Property ............................................................................................104
P2 Card Status Display ............................................................................104
SD memory card Status Display ..............................................................106
Confirmation of Metadata Upload ............................................................106

8Camera Unit Features
Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter1Introduction
The AG-HPX500P/E P2 memory card camera-recorder is equipped with a 2/3-inch
lens mount system that enables use of high-performance interchangeable lenses, and
comes with a 50 Hz/59.94 Hz selector function to permit use of a multitude of HD and SD
formats. Also equipped with a variable frame rate feature for cinematic expression and
effects. All these features make possible recording of high-quality image content.
Four P2 card slots enable extended HD recording and deliver the reliability, speed and IT
functionality that only P2 media is capable of revolutionizing the workflow of recording and
editing.
Camera Unit Features
■2/3-inch interchangeable lens system
The 2/3-inch bayonet mount for interchangeable lenses provides access to a broad lineup
of broadcast and industrial 2/3-inch zoom lenses from a number of manufacturers.
■Progressive 3CCD
The 2/3-inch progressive 3CCD combines a large light-receiving area with high
sensitivity. 3CCD pixel-shift technology (1/2 pixel) and advanced digital processing
produce a high-resolution CCD. The camera unit provides high resolution and high rate
scanning at 1080/60p (or 50p) at all times. This high-resolution native progressive video
is used as a source to produce a vertical resolution with a superior HD/SD image quality
that an interlace CCD simply cannot match.
■14-bit digital circuit
The high-performance DSP (Digital Signal Processor) in the camera uses 14-bit A/D
conversion and 19-bit inner processing to adjust the gamma settings for each of the R, G
and B channels of 1080/60p (50p) video, and convert to a variety of HD and SD formats
(P/I conversion, line conversion and down conversion). This produces high-quality images
in all video formats.
■Multiple HD/SD formats
The camera supports recording in 20 HD and SD image formats making it ready for
news gathering, program production, film making and other applications anywhere in the
world. 1080i/720p HD recording uses the DVCPRO HD codec for broadcast use while SD
recording is performed in DVCPRO50/DVCPRO DV multi-codec.
■ Variable frame rate makes speed effects possible (when 720P format is
selected)
This camera comes with the variable frame rate feature developed for the VariCam HD
Cinema camera. In 720p mode*, the camera enables selection between 11 frame rates
between 12P to 60p (50p). This puts features such as undercranking (dropping frames)
and overcranking (high frame rate) for quick motion and slow motion cine-like effects at
the disposal of the camera crew.
* In 1080 and 480 mode, the camera records at a fixed frame rate of 24p/30p (25p in 1086
and 576 mode, at 50 Hz mode).
■Native mode/Over 60p (50p) mode selectable
● 720PN (native) mode*: Recording is performed at the frame rate set in the camera.
Playing back a recording made at a frame rate set in the camera at the normal rate
provides speed effects without using a frame rate converter. Native mode also extends
the recording time.
● 720/P over 60p (or 50p) mode: This lets you produce a backup copy by recording the
DVCPRO HD stream output from the IEEE1394 connector on a hard disk recorder such
as the AJ-HD1400 DVCPRO HD recorder or the FOCUS FS-100 HDD recorder.
* In 720PN (native) mode, the IEEE1394 connector cannot output a DVCPRO HD stream.

9
Camera Unit Features
Chapter 1 Introduction
■1080/480 24p advance mode
In 59.94Hz mode, recording at 1080/24p or 480/24p allows you to select 24pA (advance)
mode. Using 2:3:3:2 pulldown, the 24pA mode performs 60i conversion to enable
nonlinear editing* maintaining an image quality that is better than normal 24p (2:3
pulldown). Recording at 30p or 25p (50 Hz mode) applies a 2:2 pulldown.
* For details on compatible systems, visit our website at:
http://panasonic.biz/sav/ieee1394
* 24p, 30p and 60p/60i indicate recording at 23.98p, 29.97p and 59.94i, respectively.
■Eight gamma curves, including cine-like gamma
The DSP provides Panasonic’s proprietary selectable gamma feature. To expand camera
capabilities, the camera offers eight gamma modes including cine-like gamma to give the
characteristic warm tone of film recordings and a news gamma curve for newsgathering.
■Slow, synchro and high speed shutter
The shutter speed can be set in a range between 1/12 s to a maximum speed of 1/2000
s. Combined with the variable frame rate functions, this function allows you to create
a blurring effect or an undercranking effect. The camera also features a synchro scan
function for capturing screen shots from a computer monitor.
■Scene file dial
This dial allows you to instantly retrieve settings that suit shooting conditions. Six preset
files are provided, and you can change the file names and their settings as desired. You
can also save up to 4 files to an SD memory card and load the files from the card.
■Shooting assist functions
●User buttons: Three user buttons each of which can be assigned a frequently used
function for immediate access.
●Focus assist: Displays a frequency distribution graph of the video signal as an aid in
focusing.
● Eight files for correcting lens aberration and four files for correcting shading for
interchangeable lenses are provided.
● Variable color temperature: Fine adjustment is possible after setting the white balance.
●REC review: Quick check of recorded results.
●4-position optical ND filter provided.
■Chromatic aberration compensation (CAC)
This function automatically corrects the slight chromatic aberration that the lens cannot
compensate for to minimize color bleeding into surrounding image areas.
■Remote control support
The camera supports the AJ-RC10G (optional accessory) remote control unit. The
remote control allows you to adjust camera image and recording controls at a distance
while viewing what you are shooting.

10 Recording and Playback Features
Chapter 1 Introduction
Recording and Playback Features
■A variety of interfaces
The AG-HPX500P/E can record 48 kHz/16-bit uncompressed high-quality digital audio
in all formats. The 4-channel audio capability makes both microphone and line input
possible on up to four channels. HD-SDI output, time code input and output, GEN lock
input and USB 2.0 connector are also provided. Also part of standard equipment is an
IEEE1394 interface (6-pin) for transfer of all HD/SD signal formats without degradation.
This interface allows you to transfer video data for nonlinear editing on a Windows® PC
or Macintosh® with DVCPRO HD compliant software or for backing up on a connected
DVCPRO HD digital VTR (AJ-HD1400) or FOCUS FS-100 HDD recorder.
■P2 cards for high capacity, high speed and high reliability
Comprising four SD memory cards, a P2 card is a broadcast industry standard memory
card with four times the capacity and transfer rate of a conventional SD memory card in
a compact and lightweight (45 g) design. In addition to exceptional resistance to shock,
vibration and temperature fluctuations, this semiconductor memory has a reliability that
guarantees long-term repeated recording/initialization that a tape or hard disk system with
their moving parts could never match. The connectors are professional grade to withstand
long-term continual insertion and removal.
AV data is recorded on a P2 card as a single file that is immediately accessible for
nonlinear editing or transfer over a network without digitizing. Transfer speeds far
surpassing those of hard disks also help to speed up production processes. The P2 card
complies with PCMCIA standards and can be directly plugged into the P2 card slot on a
notebook P2*.
The four P2 card slots allow continuous recording on four P2 cards and also offer the
following recording capabilities in a memory card camera-recorder.
●Card selection: A card in any slot can be instantly selected (switched to) in standby
mode. Recorded content can be quickly passed on to editing or
transferred to minimize interruptions in recording making it far more
efficient than systems where tapes or disks have to be exchanged.
●Hot-swap recording: Cards can be replaced during recording. A full memory card can
be replaced while recording is made on another card. Successively
swapping cards in this way gives you virtually unlimited recording
capacity.
●Loop recording: Setting the camera for consecutive overwriting, you can repeatedly
rerecord on the inserted P2 cards, always maintaining a recording of
the most recent, specific period of time.
* This requires the installation of a P2 card driver (provided with each device). The P2
card driver runs under Windows® Vista, Windows® XP or Windows® 2000.
■Immediate startup and reliable data protection
When you press the REC button in standby mode, the camera instantly finds a blank area
on the P2 card and begins recording. Unlike a VTR system, there is no need to locate a
blank section before recording. It can begin recording immediately even when you are
using it to preview video. In normal use, there is no chance of accidentally deleting a
recording. Recordings will not be erased unless you intentionally delete a file or initialize
the card.
■Other features
●Pre-rec: This function provides a way to capture moments you otherwise would have
missed. In the standby mode, the camera will record video and audio for up
to 3 seconds in HD and 7 seconds in SD. Starting the recording operation will
record the preset duration of video and audio already memorized in standby.
● One-shot REC: Convenient for producing animation, this mode records for a set time
(from 1 frame to 1 second) each time you press the START button.
● Interval REC: Recording one frame at a time at set intervals (from 2 frames to 10
minutes), this mode is useful for monitoring, supervision and special ultra
undercranking effects.

11
Recording and Playback Features
Chapter 1 Introduction
■Clip thumbnail preview
The camera records each cut as a clip (file) and automatically attaches a thumbnail image
and file information to it. To preview a clip on the LCD monitor or to check clip data, simply
choose the clip you want from the list of thumbnails. These thumbnails and the file data
can be viewed on a PC (P2 Viewer *) or processed in a nonlinear editing program *.
* “P2 Viewer” is a Windows® PC viewing software that can be downloaded free of charge
by P2 card users.
■Shot marker and text memo
If desired, you can add a simple OK/reject shot marker to each clip either during or after
recording. When a P2 card is mounted in a PC (P2 Viewer), the PC will display only
marked clips.
A text memo function is also provided. Pressing the USER button to which the text memo
function has been assigned anywhere in a clip during recording or in preview mode allows
you to attach empty post-it like text memos (up to 100) that can later be filled with text on
a PC (P2 Viewer).
■SD memory card slot
The camera provides an SD memory card slot for saving and loading scene files and user
settings. A metadata upload file (created using P2 Viewer) containing the name of the
person who shot the video, the name of the reporter, the shooting location or a text memo
and other information can be saved to an SD memory card. This data file can be loaded
as clip metadata.
■HD/SD SDI output and downconverter supported
Video line outputs (both BNC) are provided as standard. These outputs can flexibly
handle both monitor and line recording. A down-converter is also built-in. Aspect mode
can also be selected.
●SDI OUT (HD/SD): The HD-SDI output allows you to make backups on an external
VTR (with HD-SDI input) in synch with REC START/STOP button
operation. SD-SDI can also down convert and output HD content.
●VIDEO OUT: Outputs down converted SD video (composite video).
■Fine adjustment of sound recording level
The camera features a front-mounted control for fine adjustment of the sound recording
level. This control is particularly useful for adjusting the sound level when you have to
control both video and audio recording. The control can be disabled.

12 Outline of operations
Chapter 1 Introduction
Outline of operations
This unit is compatible with P2 (Professional Plug-in) cards. Excelling at high transfer speeds, the P2 card enables
high vision recording and smooth editing and dubbing.
Flow of shooting, playing and saving
The setting values such as the user file
are saved to and read from the
SD memory card.
P2 card
You can use the following features:
• HD (High Definition) recording
• Multi format recording
• Variable frame rates
Slow & quick motion recording
• Maximum 4 channel uncompressed
digital audio recording
P2 mode shooting and playback
(Pages XX and XX)

13
Outline of operations
Chapter 1 Introduction
Saving and editing on external devices
Computer/
Memory card recorder
External hard disk
Computer
P2 card
Component
video cable
USB2.0 (Windows®)
IEEE1394 (SBP-2*) (Macintosh®)
IEEE1394 (SBP-2*)
IEEE1394
(Windows®/Macintosh®)
*Serial Bus Protocol-2
The data (file) is transferred for nonlinear
editing on your computer or other unit.
The unit directly controls the external hard
disk drive, and transfers the data (file) to it.
The contents can be transferred as
a data stream (digital dubbing).
Connecting external devices via
the USB connector (Page XX)
Connecting external devices via
the IEEE1394 connector (Page XX)
Video equipment/
Television

14 System Configuration
Chapter 1 Introduction
System Configuration
AC adapter
NP-L7
Remote control cable:
AJ-C10050G
LCD monitor
BT-LH80W
USB2.0 compatible devices
Remote Control Unit:
AJ-RC10G
ENDURA7/10
BP-GL65/95
Lens:
(Bayonet type)
Fujinon, Canon
DIONIC90/160
HYTRON50/100/140
PROPAC14, TRIMPAC14
SD Memory cards*2
P2 Cards*2:
Stereo microphone:*1
AG-MC200G
AJ-MC700P
Phantom +48 V
NP-1 type
Battery mount
V mount type
Battery plate
Viewfinder:
AJ-VF15BP/BE
AJ-VF20WBP/BE
AG-VF11G
Tripod adapter:
SHAN-TM700
Hard carrying
case:
AJ-HT901G
Rain cover:
SHAN-RC700
Soft carrying
case:
AJ-SC900
AG-HPX500P/E
*1 To install a stereo microphone, an extra modification is required. For more information, contact your distributor or designated
service provider.
*2 For the latest information on P2 cards and SD memory cards not available in the operating Instructions, visit the P2 Support
Desk at the following Web sites.
https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pro-av/

15
Chapter 2 Parts and their Functions
Chapter2Parts and their Functions
Power Supply and Accessory Mounting Section
1 POWER switch
Used to turn on/off the power.
2 Battery mount
A battery pack from Anton/Bauer is mounted
here.
3 DC IN (external power input) socket (XLR,
4P)
This unit is connected to an external DC power
supply (DC12 V).
4 BREAKER switch
When an excessive amount of current is fed
through the video camera-recorder, due to any
abnormal event, the breaker automatically turns
off the power in order to protect the device.
After the interior of the video camera-recorder
has been checked and/or repaired, this button
must be depressed. If there is no unusual
reaction, the unit can be powered-up.
5 Light shoe
A video light or similar accessory can be attached
here.
6 Shoulder strap fittings
The shoulder strap is attached here.
7 Lens mount (bayonet type)
The lens is attached here.
8 Lens lever
Lower this lever to lock the lens to the lens mount.
9 Lens mount cap
To remove the cap, raise the lens lever.
When the lens is not mounted, replace the cap.
10 Lens cable/microphone cable clamp
This clamp secures the lens and microphone
cables.
11 Tripod mount
When you want to mount the AG-HPX500P/E
on a tripod, the optional tripod adapter (SHAN-
TM700) is attached here.
12 LENS jack (12-pin)
The lens connection cord is connected here.
For a detailed description of your lens, see the
relevant manufacturer’s instruction manual.
13 Release lever
Pull down the release lever to release the battery
pack.
14 Viewfinder left-right positioning ring
For details, see [Adjusting Viewfinder Right-Left
Position].
15 Light control switch
For details, refer to [Power Supply].
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Chapter 2 Parts and their Functions
1 MIC IN (microphone input) jacks
FRONT1/FRONT2 (XLR, 3-pin)
Connect microphones (optional accessories) to
these jacks. Power for the microphone comes
from this jack.
A phantom-powered microphone may be
connected. To use a phantom-powered
microphone, set the menu option F.MIC
POWER1/F.MIC POWER2 to ON in the <AUDIO
SETUP> screen.
2 AUDIO LEVEL CH1/CH2 (audio channel 1
& 2 recording level adjustment) controls
With the AUDIO SELECT CH1/CH2 switch
positioned to [MAN], these controls can be used
to adjust the recording levels for Audio Channels
1/2.
Note that the controls are designed to be locked.
For adjustment, each control must be depressed
while turning.
3 AUDIO SELECT CH1/CH2 (audio channel
1 & 2 automatic/manual level adjustment
selector) switch
Use this switch to select recording level control
mode for Audio Channels 1 and 2.
AUTO: Recording level automatically controlled.
MAN: Recording level manually controlled.
4 AUDIO LEVEL CH3/CH 4 (audio channel 3
& 4 recording level adjustment) controls
Set the menu option AUTO LEVEL CH3/AUTO
LEVEL CH4 to OFF in the <AUDIO SETUP>
screen to use these controls to adjust the
recording level of audio channels 3 and 4.
5 AUDIO IN (audio input selector) switch
Use this switch to select the signals recorded
through Audio Channels 1 - 4.
FRONT: Signal from the microphone connected
to the MIC IN jack is recorded.
REAR: Signal from the audio device connected
to the REAR 1/REAR 2 connector is
recorded.
CH1 Input CH2 Input
FRONT1 FRONT1 jack FRONT FRONT2 jack
FRONT2 FRONT2 jack REAR REAR2 jack
REAR REAR1 jack — —
CH2 Input CH4 Input
FRONT FRONT1 jack FRONT FRONT2 jack
REAR REAR1 jack REAR REAR2 jack
6 REAR 1/REAR 2 (audio input channel 1 &
2) connectors (XLR, 3-pin)
Audio devices or a microphone may be
connected here.
Audio (input) Function Section
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17
Chapter 2 Parts and their Functions
7 LINE/MIC/+48V (line input/mic input/mic
input + 48V) selector switch
Used to select the audio signal input from the
AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connectors.
LINE: Audio signal line-input from the audio
device is input.
MIC: Audio signal from a self-powered (active)
microphone is input. (The main unit
does not supply power to the remote
microphone).
+ 48V: Audio signal from a passive microphone
is input. (The unit supplies power to the
remote microphone).
8 F. AUDIO LEVEL (audio recording level
adjustment) control
This control adjusts the recording level of Audio
Channels 1 and 2. Level adjustment does not
depend on the position of the AUDIO SELECT
switch.
Use the menu options FRONT VR CH1 and
FRONT VR CH2 in the <AUDIO SETUP> screen
to select whether this control will be used for
controlling input from AUDIO CHANNEL 1 or 2.
9 Viewfinder connector

18
Chapter 2 Parts and their Functions
1 MONITOR SELECT (audio channel) CH1/2 / CH3/4 selector switch
Use this switch to select the audio channel whose signals are output to the speakers, earphones or AUDIO
OUT connector.
CH1/2: Signals on Audio Channels 1 and 2 are output.
CH3/4: Signals on Audio Channels 3 and 4 are output.
The channel indications on the display window and on the audio level meter in the viewfinder are
synchronised with this selector switch.
2 MONITOR SELECT (audio selection) CH1/3 / ST / CH2/4 selector switch
The MONITOR SELECT switch is synchronised with the audio signal output to the speakers and earphones,
and from the AUDIO OUT connector.
MONITOR SELECT SWITCH (Left) MONITOR SELECT SWITCH (Right)
CH1/2 CH3/4
MONITOR SELECT
CH1/3 Audio Channel 1 Audio Channel 3
ST Stereo signals from
Audio Channels 1 and 2
Stereo signals from
Audio Channels 3 and 4
CH2/4 Audio Channel 2 Audio Channel 4
3 MONITOR/ALARM (volume) control
Used to control the volume of sound output from the monitor speakers and earphones.
It also adjusts the alarm sound volume.
4 Speakers
The speakers output EE sound during recording, and reproduced sound during playback. The speakers emit
an alarm sound when the warning lamp blinks and/or the indicator activates. EE sound and playback sound
are not output during alarm sound output.
When the PHONES jack is connected with earphones, sound from the speaker is automatically muted.
5 PHONES (earphones) jack (mini jack)
This connector is designed for audio monitoring (stereo) earphones. When earphones are connected, sound
from the speakers is automatically muted.
6 DC OUT (DC power supply) output socket
This output socket is designed for 12-VDC. It provides a maximum current of 1.5 A.
7 AUDIO OUT connector
This connector outputs audio signals recorded on Channels 1/2 or 3/4.
Output signals are selected with the MONITOR SELECT CH1/2 / CH3/4 selector switch.
Audio (output) Function Section
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19
Chapter 2 Parts and their Functions
Shooting and Recording (camera unit)
1 ND FILTER (filter switching) control
This control adjusts the amount of light entering
the CCD. Use this control in strong outdoor
lighting.
Control
position Setting Description
1 OFF Do not use the ND filter.
2 1/4 Reduces the amount of light
entering the CCD to 1/4.
3 1/16 Reduces the amount of light
entering the CCD to 1/16.
4 1/64 Reduces the amount of light
entering the CCD to 1/64.
2 USER MAIN, USER 1 and USER 2 buttons
These buttons can be assigned user-selected
functions, using a menu option. Each button,
when pressed, performs the assigned function.
For more information, see [Assigning Functions to
USER MAIN, USER1 and USER2 Buttons].
3 SHUTTER switch
Used to enable or disable the electronic shutter.
OFF: Electronic shutter disabled.
ON: Electronic shutter enabled.
SEL: Used to change the speed of the electronic
shutter.
This dial switch returns to its original position.
Each turn of the switch alters the shutter speed.
For more information, see [Setting the Electronic
Shutter].
4 AUTO W/B (white/black) BAL switch
AWB
Automatically adjusts the white balance.
Set the WHITE BAL switch on the side to
[A] or [B] and use this switch to adjust the
white balance, which takes a few seconds.
The adjusted value is stored in memory.
Note that auto white balance adjustment is
not available when the WHITE BAL switch
is set to [PRST].
ABB Back balance is automatically adjusted.
5 GAIN selector switch
This switch adjusts video amplifier gain to suit
ambient lighting conditions at the time of the
shooting.
Use the menu options MID GAIN and HIGH
GAIN in the <SW MODE> screen to set the M/H
position gain values.
The factory settings for L, M and H are 0 dB,
6 dB, and 12 dB, respectively.
<Note>
The camera is locked to 0 dB gain regardless of
GAIN switch position and setting when the FRAME
RATE is 22 fps (59.94 Hz) or less than 23 fps (50 Hz)
and the slow shutter is set to 1/15 (59.94 Hz) or 1/12
(50 Hz/59.94 Hz).
Shooting and Recording/Playback Functions Section
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Chapter 2 Parts and their Functions
6 OUTPUT/AUTO KNEE selector switch
This switch selects the video signals sent from
the camera unit to the memory card recorder unit,
viewfinder and video monitor.
CAM.
AUTO
KNEE ON
Video being recorded through the camera
is output with the AUTO KNEE circuit
activated. The compression level (KNEE
point) of the video signal is automatically
changed according to the received signal.
CAM.
AUTO
KNEE OFF
Video being recorded through the camera
is output with the AUTO KNEE circuit
turned off. The KNEE point is locked to
the level set in the menu.
BARS Color bar signals are output with the
AUTO KNEE circuit turned off.
<Note>
This switch does not work in the MCR mode.
■AUTO KNEE function
Usually, when you adjust levels to shoot people
or scenery against a strongly lit background,
the background will be totally whited-out, with
buildings and other objects blurred.
In this case, the AUTO KNEE function reproduces
the background clearly.
This function is effective when:
• The subject is a person positioned in the shade
under a clear sky.
• The subject is a person inside a car or building,
and you also want to capture the background
visible through a window.
• The subject is a high-contrast scene.
7 WHITE BAL (white balance memory
selector) switch
Used to select the white balance adjustment
method.
PRST: Use this when you have no time to adjust
the white balance.
• The value for the white balance is
factory-set to 3200 K.
• It can be changed to any color
temperature using a menu option. For
more information, see [Setting Color
Temperature Manually].
A or B: Pressing the AUTO W/B BAL Switch
toward [AWB] automatically adjusts the
white balance, saving the adjusted value
in Memory A or B. For more information,
see [Adjusting the White Balance].
8 DISP/MODE CHECK button
Press this button to turn off the LCD monitor and
viewfinder display. (The time code indication
stays on.)
A second press of the button turns the display
back on and holding it down displays shooting
conditions and functions assigned to USER
switches.
It also serves to turn off the alarm sound.
9 MODE button
This button toggles between the CAMERA mode
and MCR mode at each press.
Holding down this button for 2 seconds or longer
in the MCR mode will engage the PC mode.
Since this button does not work in the PC mode,
power off the camera to exit the PC mode and
switch to another mode. The camera will start
up in the CAMERA mode when powered up next
time.
Use the mode LED (Page XX) to check current
mode.