Panasonic AJ-HDX900 - Camcorder - 1080i User manual

AJ-
DVCPRO HD Camera-Recorder

A Universal HD Camera-Recorder
that Puts High-End Performance Within Your Reach
The AJ-HDX900 produces the high-quality HD content that's in
growing demand as HD production and
broadcasting continue to expand worldwide.
This new camera-recorder uses the DVCPRO HD format,
with its long track record and proven reliability in broadcast
use. Able to record in both the 720p and 1080i digital TV
formats,
the AJ-HDX900 excels in the HD production of TV programs,
music and video clips, corporate video and other content for
use virtually anywhere in the world.
A progressive HD CCD and 14-bit digital processing assure
outstanding image quality. A new filmlike gamma curve and
newly developed dynamic range stretching (DRS) function
respond to high-end production needs.
The first full-size HD camera-recorder to come equipped with
IEEE 1394 digital output, the AJ-HDX900 offers quick, easy
linking with IT systems such as hard disk recorders.
The AJ-HDX900 is also compatible with a newly developed
Remote Control Unit (RCU), for added operational and
functional flexibility. Even with all of these features and
performance, the AJ-HDX900 is surprisingly affordable.
As the perfect complement to the AJ-HDX900, Panasonic is
making available the AJ-HD1400 compact recorder. With these
two new high cost-performance units, Panasonic is offering
versatile, high-quality HD production systems at a cost of
SD production.

The 720p/1080i HD Multi-Format Camera
Able to record in the 11 HD formats listed below, the AJ-HDX900
can produce content for use virtually anywhere in the world. And
with its versatile features, the AJ-HDX900 can be used to
produce virtually any kind of HD video content — TV programs,
music videos, stock footage, corporate video and much more.
Records in these HD Formats
Progressive HD CCD Provides High Sensitivity
and Superior Image Quality
The 2/3" 1-million-pixel IT 3CCD system delivers superb HD
imagery combined with exceptional sensitivity of F10 at 2,000 lux.
The AJ-HDX900 can capture outstanding shots in lighting as low
as 0.032 lux (at +62 dB gain). The native progressive video
format, which drives the CCDs continuously in progressive mode,
outputs high-quality HD images that are suitable for use in filmlike
production or in combination with computer graphics.
14-bit Digital Conversion
In the AJ-HDX900, we offer a 14-bit A/D conversion system, an
upgrade over a conventional 12-bit system. We also incorporated
a new high-performance digital signal processing (DSP) circuit.
The 12-axis color correction matrix lets you make fine
adjustments in specific color regions. Functions such as skin
detail let you further fine-tune the image.
New Filmlike 3 Gamma Curve
We also added a new Filmlike gamma mode called Filmlike 3, to
the popular Filmlike 1 and Filmlike 2 gamma modes found in the
AJ-SDX900 and AJ-HDX400. Filmlike 3 produces a film-like
texture that makes images
more emotionally
expressive. This makes
Filmlike 3 a good choice for
certain TV programs, music
and video clips, and other
content.
DVCPRO HD: Professional Quality Pictures
Designed to broadcast specifications, the DVCPRO HD codec
combines a video bit rate of 100 Mbps with 4:2:2 sampling and
intra-frame compression. This reliable recording system also
minimizes quality degradation with fast-moving subjects and is
highly resistant to drop-out.
The DVCPRO HD-LP format allows 33 minutes of recording on a
medium-size cassette with reliable 1/4" metal particle tape.
New DRS (Dynamic Range Stretching) Function
DRS further extends the auto knee function. It recognizes the
average brightness of highlight and shadow areas and then
automatically adjusts the aperture and uses knee control to
suppress blown highlights in the shadow areas. In scenes with
mixed dark and light areas, such as when moving from indoors to
outdoors, DRS automatically provides a wider dynamic range with
minimal blown highlights and blocked shadows with no need to
manually tweak the camera for each specific condition.
Digital Super Gain (Cumulative Mode)
The AJ-HDX900 provides an easy-to-use, pushbutton super gain
function with a maximum gain of +36 dB. In addition, it introduces
a new digital super gain (in cumulative mode) utilizing the variable
frame rate technology of Varicam and allowing an extra gain of
+20 dB (at 6 fps). Unlike conventional gain adjustment, digital
super gain is virtually noise-free*, so picture quality is preserved
intact. With super gain and digital super gain, the AJ-HDX900
allows ultra-high-sensitive shooting at up to +62 dB.
*At maximum gain (+62 dB) there may be a slight amount of noise.
48-kHz/16-bit, 4-Channel Digital Audio
The AJ-HDX900 can record full 48-kHz/16-bit digital audio on all
four channels. You can freely select the audio source for each
channel, choosing from mic, line, wireless receiver, and others.
A 5-pin XLR jack with 2-channel compatibility is used for the front
mic input. Using the AJ-MC900G optional stereo microphone lets
you record stereo with a single mic.
MULTI-FORMAT HD RECORDING WITH HIGH SENSITIVITY AND SUPERIOR IMAGE QUALITY
QUALITY
59.94Hz area 50Hz area
1080 1080/59.94i
1080/29.97p (over 59.94i)
1080/23.98p (over 59.94i)
1080/23.98pA (over 59.94i)
1080/50i,
1080/25p (over 50i)
720 720/59.94p,
720/29.97p (over 59.94p),
720/23.98p (over 59.94p)
720/50p,
720/25p (over 50p)
Nomal Gain UP Image Digital Super Gain UP Image
Input
Output
SD
HD
FILMLIKE1
FILMLIKE2
FILMLIKE3
Gamma Curve
Video Gamma Image Filmlike 3 Gamma Image
DRS "OFF" Image DRS "ON" Image

Front Side Camera Setting
Camera front SW Rear Side Connectors
Rear Panel Connectors
Rear Side VTR Settings
Top VTR Operation Key

User Scene Files
Store specific camera settings in built-in
memory, then retrieve them when
needed for quick, easy setup. Four files
with settings can be stored in the
camera's memory. Files can also be
copied onto an SD Memory Card,
allowing storage of up to eight files.
Customized User Buttons
Three user buttons are provided. Assign a function to each, and
then you can select those functions with pushbutton ease. You
can also customize the on-screen menu with the items you use
most often, and display them by simply pressing a button. One of
the three user buttons can be isolated as a USER MAIN button
for easy blind-touch operation.
Prerecording Function
The AJ-HDX900 is ready to catch sudden, spontaneous scenes
you might otherwise miss. When the camera is in standby mode,
the prerecording function continually stores in memory up to 7
seconds (presettable) of the most recent video and audio material
entering the camera. When you press the REC button, that
material is recorded onto the tape before real-time recording
begins.
Interval Recording and One-Shot Recording
The interval REC function records at preset intervals, which is
useful in monitoring or observation applications, or when you
want to create a frame-by-frame effect.
Use the One-shot REC function, which starts recording each time
you press the REC button, to create claymation and other
special-effect productions.
On-Screen Menu
The AJ-HDX900 features the same easy-to-use menu layout that
was so popular in the AJ-SDX900. You can customize the menu
and create a unique user menu that displays the items you use
most often.
Electronic Shutter with "Half-Speed" and Syncro-Scan
The electronic shutter has six fixed speeds of up to 1/2000 sec,
plus "Half-Speed" (180 degree) slow and synchro-scan capability.
Shutter Speed (50Hz): 1/60, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000,
1/2000 sec. and Harf (180°)
Shutter Speed (59.94Hz): 1/100, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000,
1/2000 sec. and Harf (180°)
Syncro Scan Shutter: 1/60.3 to 1/249.8 sec. (59.94 Hz)
1/30.2 to 1/249.8 sec. (29.97 Hz)
1/24.1 to 1/249.8 sec. (23.98 Hz)
1/50.2 to 1/209.5 sec. (50 Hz)
1/25.2 to 1/209.5 sec. (25 Hz)
Lightweight, Well Balanced Body
The AJ-HDX900 offers a lightness in operation that is not entirely
reflected in its 9.9-lb (4.5-kg) weight. Designed specifically to
provide excellent balance while shooting, it doesn't become front-
heavy when equipped with lens, battery, and wireless receiver.
Camera work is comfortable because the AJ-HDX900 maintains a
natural, horizontal position when held on the shoulder or lifted by
the handle. The body height is also minimized to give the operator
a clear view front and rear.
Designed for Ease of Operation
The position, function, and shape of all switches, dials and
terminals have been designed in response to feedback from video
professionals to allow quick
operation and prevent errors for
greater reliability.
•The Audio Rec level adjustment
features a push lock function.
•The Audio Input level adjustment
(front) can be switched ON/OFF
and allocated to desired
channels.
•The Easy-Slide Shoulder Pad can
be slid with one hand, and
securely locked in position.
•A3-point locking viewfinder
mount allows precise adjustment.
Power-Save Management (SAVE REC) Function
This function reduces power consumption during recording to a
low 36 watts by interrupting playback-related circuits.
Enhanced Camera Functions and Specifications
•Displays a zebra pattern for contrast adjustment, auto white
balance setting, and color bar output.
•One touch of the mode check button displays the camera
settings for easy confirmation.
•Displays markers for 4:3 screen (side cut) indication to let you
check the trimming while shooting in SD.
•ND filter (CLEAR, 1/4ND, 1/16ND, 1/64ND) and CC filter (Cross,
3200K, 4300K, 6300K).
•Rec Review function for easy checking of recorded results
•Quick response: enters standby mode about 3 seconds after
the power is turned on; begins recording in about 0.5 second (2
seconds in Power Save mode).
SHOOTING ASSIST FUNCTIONS, EASE-OF-USE FUNCTIONS, AND MULTIPLE RECORDING MODES
FUNCTIONS

Supports the New RCU
The AJ-HDX900 comes equipped with a 10-pin RCU terminal for
connecting the optional AJ-RC10G Remote Control Unit. The AJ-
RC10G comes with a 10-pin multi-cable that can connect to the
AJ-HDX900's down-conversion video OUT terminal for
monitoring at the RCU. The AJ-RC10G provides detailed control
of gamma, flare and the AJ-HDX900's versatile paint functions.
The AJ-RC10G has a slot for SD memory card; you can save
scene settings on a memory card for easy transfer to other
cameras.
IEEE 1394 for Easy Backup
The AJ-HDX900 comes with an IEEE 1394 (6-pin) output terminal
for degradation-free output of DVCPRO HD compression data in
all HD formats. Data can be captured directly to a DVCPRO HD-
compatible nonlinear editor.
Also, connect the AJ-HDX900 to
a DVCPRO HD digital VTR (such
as the AJ-HD1400 or HD1200A)
or FOCUS FireStore FS-100 hard
disk recorder, and you can record
on the AJ-HDX900 while
simultaneously making a backup
copy on the connected unit.
* Please refer "IEEE1394 Compatibility Table" at
<https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pro-av/>.
HD SDI/SD Down-Conversion Output
The AJ-HDX900 comes equipped with two BNC video line
outputs for flexible monitoring or line recording use.
•MON OUT: Outputs EE or VTR playback images in HD-SDI or
HD-Y format
•VIDEO OUT: Switchable between HD-SDI/SD-SDI (down
conversion) and analog composite (down conversion) output.
A dedicated selector switch improves operating ease. The
HD/SD down converter comes built-in. Aspect mode is
selectable. Provides the high image quality needed for either
monitoring or live on-air transmission.
DC Power Supply for an LCD Monitor
A 1.5-A DC output (4-pin) is provided for powering the BT-LH900
or LH900A 8.4" LCD monitor, which can serve as a viewfinder.
GPS Unit
By mounting the optional AJ-GPS900G GPS unit, the AJ-
HDX900 can record real-time position data (latitude, longitude,
and altitude) onto the tape, conforming to UMID standards.
* GPS unit is not available in some areas.
Other Functions
•Shading correction function that adjusts for use of a lens
extender.
•Color bar (switchable between SMPTE, ARIB, and full color) and
standard audio signal (1-kHz test tone) output
•Built-in SMPTE time code generator/reader, with time code
In/Out terminal
•Multiple battery support, including Anton Bauer batteries
•UniSlot® wireless receiver compatible
* UniSlot® is a trademark of Ikegami Tsusinki Co., Ltd.
COMES EQUIPPED WITH IEEE 1394, HD-SDI, AND DOWN-CONVERSION OUTPUT. SUPPORTS THE NEW RCU.
SYSTEM
IEEE 1394 or HD-SDI
AJ-HDX900 AJ-HD1400
for Back-up Recording
1080i, 720p
AJ-RC10G Remote Control Unit

Microphone
(Phantom +48)
AJ-MC900G
Microphone Kit
AJ-HVF21G
2.0" HD EVF
Anton/Bauer
Ultra Light
AJ-MH800G
Microphone
Holder
10-pin Remote Cable
BNC cable (HD-SDI)
4-pin DC cable
IEEE 1394 cable
SHAN-TM700
Tripod Adapter
Shoulder Strap
SHAN-RC700
Rain Cover AJ-SC900 Soft Carrying Case
(not available in some area)
Tripod
2/3" HD Lens
AJ-HDX900
Standard Accessories
Anton/Bauer
Gold Mount Plate Anton/Bauer Batteries Anton/Bauer Battery Charger
BNC Cable
AJ-RC10G
RemoteControlUnit Picture Monitor
BT-LH900A
BT-LH1700W
BT-LH2600W
BT-LH900A
8.4" LCD Monitor
Fire Store FS-100
Portable DTE Recorder
*Down Convert SD
UniSlot® Wireless
Mic Receiver
AJ-GPS900G
GPS Unit

AJ-HT901
Hard Carrying Case
SD Memory Card
SD Memory Card
SUPPORTING EQUIPMENT AND PERIPHERALS
OPTIONS
AJ-HVF21G
2" HD EVF
59.94Hz/50.00Hz
switchable
BT-LH900A 8.4" HD/SD LCD monitor
BT-LH1700W 17"Wide HD/SD LCD monitor
BT-LH2600W 26"Wide HD/SD LCD monitor
AJ-MC900G
Stereo Microphone
(5-pin)
AJ-MH800G
Microphone Holder
SHAN-TM700
Tripod Adapter
AJ-GPS900G
GPS Unit
*Not available in some areas.
SD Memory Card
Anton/Bauer
TITAN70 AC Adaptor/
Battery Charger
Anton/Bauer
Battery Charger Package
HTP-T230
Anton/Bauer
Dionic Batery
Anton/Bauer
Battery Charger
Anton/Bauer Ultra Light
AJ-SC900
Soft Carrying Case
*Not available in some areas.
SHAN-RC700
Rain Cover
*Not available in some areas.
AJ-HT901G
Hard Carrying Case
*Not available in some areas.
FireStore FS-100
Portable DTE Recorder
(FOCUS Enhancements, Inc.) AJ-HD1400
DVCPRO HD Recorder
• Equipped with IEEE 1394 and HD-SDI
AJ-RC10G
RCU (Remote Control Unit)
• 10P Remote Cable 10m

SPECIFICATIONS
General
Power Supply: DC 12 V (11 V to 17 V)
Power Consumption: 36 W
Operating Humidity: 10 % to 85 %
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to +40°C)
Dimensions : 5-1/16" x 10-11/16" x 13"
(W x H x D) (129 x 271 x 329 mm)
Weight: About 9.9 bs (4.5 kg)
About 16.7 lbs (7.6 kg) in full-operation
Continuous Rec Time: About 120 min. with Anton/Bauer Dionic 80
Camera Section
CCD Elements: 2/3” HD Progressive CCD
Picture Elements: Total: 1370 (H) x 744 (V), Effective: 1280 (H) x 720(V)
Optical System: F 1.4 prism system
Optical Filters: CC: Cross, 3200K, 4300K, 6300K
ND: CLEAR, 1/4ND, 1/16ND, 1/64ND
Quantization: 14 bits
Sampling Frequency: 74.1758MHz (59.94Hz), 74.25MHz (50Hz)
Programmable Gain: –3/0/+3/+6/+9/+12/+15/+18/+21/+24/+27/+30 dB
Super Gain: +30/+36 dB
Digital Super Gain: +6/+10/+12/+15/+20 dB
Line Mix Gain: +6 dB (On/Off)
Shutter Speed: 1/60 (50Hz), 1/100 (59.94Hz), 1/120, 1/250, 1/500,
1/1000, 1/2000 sec. and HALF
Syncro Scan Shutter: 1/60.3 to 1/249.8 sec. (59.94i, 59.94p)
1/30.2 to 1/249.8 sec. (29.97p)
1/24.1 to 1/249.8 sec. (23.98p, 23.98pA)
1/50.2 to 1/209.5 sec. (50i, 50p)
1/25.2 to 1/209.5 sec. (25p)
Sensitivity: F10.0 at 2000 Lux, 89.9% reflect
Minimum Illumination: 0.032 Lux at +36 dB +20 dB +6 dB Gain
Video S/N: 54 dB (typical)
Horizontal Resolution: 700 TV lines at centre
Registration Error: Less than 0.03 % (whole zone, without lens distortion)
Lens Mount: 2/3" Bayonet type
VTR Section
Recording Fromat: DVCPRO HD-LP
Tape: 6.35 mm wide metal tape (DVCPRO HD M cassette)
Tape Speed: 67.640 mm/s (59.94Hz), 67.708 mm/s (50Hz)
Max Rec Time: Approx. 33 min (using AJ-HP33EMG)
FF/REW Time: About 1.5 min. (using AJ-HP33EMG)
Video
Sampling Frequency: Y: 74.1758 MHz (59.94Hz), 74.25MHz (50Hz)
PB/PR: 37.0879 MHz (59.94Hz), 37.125 MHz (50Hz)
Quantization: 8 bits
Compression Method: DCT and Variable-length Coding
Compression Ratio: 1/6.3 (1080-50i/1080-25p), 1/6.7 (others)
Error Correction: Reed Solomon Product Code
Bit Rate: 100 Mbps
Band Width: Y: 20MHz, PB/PR: 10MHz
Audio
Sampling Frequency: 48 kHz (sync. with video)
Quantization: 16 bits
Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±1.0 dB (reference level)
Dynamic Range: More than 85 dB (1kHz, AWTD)
Distortion: Within 0.1% (1 kHz, reference level)
Wow & Flutter: Below measurable limit
Head Room: 20 dB (AJ-HDX900P), 18 dB (AJ-HDX900E)
Input
MIC In: XLR-5pin x 1, Stereo, –40/–50 dBu, Phantom +48 V
Audio In: XLR-3pin x 2 (CH1/CH2),
LINE/MIC/MIC+48 V switchable
LINE: –3/0/+4 dBu, MIC: –60/–50 dBu,
MIC+48V: –60/–50 dBu,
Wireless In: 25pin D-sub, –40 dBu
Genlock In: BNC x 1, 1.0 Vp-p, 75Ω
Timecode In: BNC x 1, 0.5 to 7.0 Vp-p, high impedance
Output
Video Out: BNC x 1, HD-SDI/SD-SDI/Compsite switchable
HD-SDI/SD-SDI: 0.8 Vp-p, 75Ω
Composite: 1.0 Vp-p, 75Ω
Monitor Out: BNC x 1, HD-SDI/HD-Y switchable
HD-SDI: 0.8Vp-p, 75Ω, HD-Y: 1.0Vp-p, 75Ω
Audio Out: XLR-5pin x 1, CH1/CH2, –3/0/+4 dBu
Timecode Out: BNC x 1, 2.0 Vp-p, low impedance
Phones: Stereo mini jack x 2
Others
Lens: 12-pin x 1
Remote: 10-pin x 1, for AJ-RC10G
DC In: XLR-4pin, DC11V to 17 V
DC Out: 4-pin x 1, DC11V to 17 V, max. 1.5 A
EVF: 20-pin x 1 (59.94Hz/50Hz switchable)
DVCPRO: 6-pin x 1, IEEE 1394 standard digital Interface
GPS: 6-pin x 1, for AJ-GPS900G
Receiver★:UniSlot® Wireless Receiver
*DVCPRO HD-LP tapes recorded with the AJ-HDX900 cannot be played on a conventional DVCPRO
HD VTR (AJ-HD150/AJ-HD130DC).
*UniSlot® is a trademark of Ikegami Tsusinki Co., Ltd.
40K606ZM-1 Printed in Japan
SP-HDX900PE1
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
Systems Business Group
2-15 Matsuba-cho, Kadoma, Osaka 571-8503
Japan
Phone [phone] Fax [phone]
https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pro-av/
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