Sony XDCAM PDW-F75 User manual

XDCAM HD Family
XDCAM HD Camcord r
PDW-F355 / PDW-F335
XDCAM HD R cording D ck
PDW-F75
XDCAM Driv Unit
PDW-U1
www.sony.com/XDCAM
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:22 AM Page 1

XDCAM HD Systems Have Taken Another
Step Forward for HD Production
Sony introduced the XDCAM®HD series in response to rapidly growing expectations for a wider
choice of high-definition (HD) video recording systems. Since that time, the XDCAM HD products
have been widely adopted around the world by a wide variety of users such as cinematographers,
production facilities, broadcasters, and video professionals. XDCAM HD products not only boast a
stunning HD picture quality, but also enable advanced nonlinear recording on “Professional Disc™” -
an optical disc media based on blue-violet laser technology. Users have been enjoying the
tremendous benefits of disc-based operations, such as instant random access and network capability
to name just a few.
Sony has evolved its XDCAM HD lineup by introducing two new camcorders, the PDW-F355 and
PDW-F335, and a new deck, the PDW-F75, to provide much greater format versatility and operational
flexibility. One of the most advanced features of the new lineup is its long recording time of
approximately 4.5 hours of 1080i HD video. This is achieved by a newly developed dual-layer disc,
the PFD50DLA, which has an extremely large storage capacity of 50 B.
The full lineup now comprises two 1/2-inch-type three-CCD camcorders, the new PDW-F355 and
PDW-F335, plus the PDW-F75 deck. What's remarkable in the lineup is the addition of the new PDW-U1
drive unit, which offers a compact, mobile, and highly cost-effective
solution for various applications. It serves as an external PC drive, connected via the Hi-Speed USB
(USB 2.0) interface, and allows users to instantly view material recorded to Professional Disc media on
their PC. It can also be used as a source feeder to nonlinear editing systems.
With greater system flexibility and operational conveniences, the enhanced lineup of
Sony XDCAM HD products further expands the world of HD systems for all types of production.
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PDW-F355 Camcorder
PDW-F75 Recording Deck
PDW-F335 Camcorder
PDW-U1 Drive Unit
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High-quality Uncompressed Audio Recording
In addition to HD video recording, high quality audio is
an equally significant feature in the XDCAM HD system.
The XDCAM HD products can record four-channel,
16-bit, 48-kHz uncompressed audio.
HD 1080 Recording using the “MPEG HD”
Codec
The XDCAM HD products record
1080-line high-definition video using
the “MPE HD” codec that uses the industry-standard
MPE -2 MP@HL compression. The use of this codec, which
is based on common MPE compression, allows
compatibility with many other devices such as nonlinear
editing systems.
The Sony XDCAM HD system is a highly versatile production tool that offers flexible recording
functionalities including a choice of video frame rates, interlace or progressive modes,
recording data rates, and both HD or SD* formats. *Selectable between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios.
XDCAM HD –Versatile, Disc-based HD Recording System
Selectable Bit Rates
Choosing the highest bit rate of 35 Mb/s results in the
highest-quality pictures over a recording time of up to 150
minutes*, while choosing the 18 Mb/s bit rate provides a
longer recording time of up to 265 minutes*.
*Approximate time in two-channel audio recording mode with the PFD50DLA (50 B disc).
Wide Choice of Video Format – Interlace
and Progressive Including Native “23.98P”
Mode
The XDCAM HD products offer a wide choice of video
formats for both frame rates and scanning mode. They
include 1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 25P, and native 23.98P.
HD/SD Switchable Recording and Up/Down
Conversion Capability
The XDCAM HD camcorders and
PDW-F75 deck* provide the powerful
capability to record in DVCAM™
format with NTSC/PAL and 16:9/4:3 switchable modes,
as well as the MPE HD format. What's more, both the
XDCAM HD camcorders and deck incorporate a
down-conversion capability that allows material recorded in
the MPE HD format to be converted to SD signals and
output via the SD video output connectors (including SD
composite and i.LINK™** connectors). This enables users to
view the material on an SD monitor or transfer it to other
SD-based equipment such as a VTR or editor.
The PDW-F75 also boasts an up-conversion capability, which
allows material recorded in the DVCAM format to be
converted to HD signals and output via its HD-SDI*** or HD
analog component connector. These capabilities allow
users to easily and flexibly migrate to HD-based operations
at their own pace.
*The PDW-F75 deck provides DVCAM recording from inputs via the SD-SDI or SD
analog composite interfaces, which require the optional PDBK-104.
**i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product is equipped
with an IEEE1394 connector. Not all products with an i.LINK connector may
communicate with each other. Please refer to the documentation that comes
with any device having an i.LINK connector for
information on compatibility, operating conditions,
and proper connection.
***HD-SDI output is only available on the PDW-F75.
XDCAM HD Recording Specifications
XDCAM HD
4
480 (NTSC)/576 (PAL)
None (Linear PCM)
2 or 4, selectable
48 kHz
16 bits/sample
1440 x 1080
DVCAM
4:1:1 (NTSC)/4:2:0 (PAL)
HD Video
Codec
SD Video
Codec
Audio
Compression
Sampling Rate
Bit Rate and
Recording Time*
(approx.)
Number of Pixels
Compression
Sampling Rate
Bit Rate and
Recording Time (approx.)
Active Lines Per Frame
Compression
Number of Channels
Sampling Frequency
Quantization
MPE -2 MP@HL
4:2:0
HQ, 35 Mb/s VBR
SP, 25 Mb/s CBR
LP, 18 Mb/s VBR
PFD50DLA(50 GB)
145 minutes (4-ch audio)
150 minutes (2-ch audio)
190 minutes (4-ch audio)
200 minutes (2-ch audio)
248 minutes (4-ch audio)
265 minutes (2-ch audio)
PFD23A(23.3 GB)
65 minutes (4-ch audio)
68 minutes (2-ch audio)
85 minutes (4-ch audio)
90 minutes (2-ch audio)
112 minutes (4-ch audio)
122 minutes (2-ch audio)
25Mb/s
PFD50DLA(50 GB) PFD23A(23.3 GB)
185 minutes 85 minutes
*When recording in HQ (35Mb/s) or LP (18 Mb/s) mode, recording time may
be more than the above specified figures depending on the actual bit rate
that is adopted during VBR encoding.
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In addition to its impressive HD picture quality, what
makes the XDCAM HD system so distinguished is its
file-based disc recording capability. This brings huge
benefits such as instant random access and IT
connectivity, to name just two.
File-based Disc Recording
Powerful Nonlinear Recording
– the Professional Disc Media
The XDCAM HD products use a large-capacity nonlinear
optical disc for recording called Professional Disc media,
which Sony has developed specifically for professional
recording applications.
The PFD50DLA and PFD23A are 12-cm, reusable optical
discs. The PFD50DLA is a dual-layer disc with an
overwhelming capacity of 50 B, while the PFD23A is a
single-layer, 23- B disc. The large capacity of the
PFD50DLA makes it possible to record up to 265 minutes* of
HD material. Professional Disc media is highly reliable and
durable because it experiences no mechanical contact
during recording or playback, and is packaged into an
extremely durable and dust-resistant disc cartridge.
The non-contact recording and playback also make it an
ideal media for long-term storage of AV assets. Whereas
traditional tape archive systems must be rewound on a
periodic basis to remove magnetic powder debris, the
Professional Disc media completely eliminates this process.
Its reliability has already been demonstrated by the huge
number of XDCAM products that have been in the field
since 2004.
*This figure is approximate. The precise recording duration will depend on the
bit rate selected.
The Key Technology Enabling Dual-layer
Recording
The development of the new dual-layer disc, PFD50DLA
has been long-awaited by users who want to achieve a
much longer recording time on the XDCAM HD system.
This large-capacity dual-layer disc with compatible disc
drive, provide four technological advances:
1. Increased recording density and the dual-layer disc
structure offer more than twice the capacity of the
single-layer disc.
2. The new substrate and production method enhance
the stable reflection and transmission of the laser.
3. The new pickup uses much higher laser power
-
enough to record on a dual-layer disc, while
maintaining a long life equivalent to the pickup used
for single-layer disc recording.
4. The newly developed servo-control mechanism
-
which is resistant to the noises that occur at laser
reflections and transmissions at each layer - enables
fewer access errors, even in unstable situations.
In addition to these new advances, the dual-layer disc
provides superb robustness and reliability equivalent to
those of the single-layer disc.
XDCAM HD
Single-layer Disc
One Reflection
Dual-layer Disc
Disc Substrate
Disc Substrate
Recording Layer
Recording Layer 0
Space Layer (25µm)
Recording Layer 1
Cover Layer (75µm)
Cover Layer
One Reflection and Two Transmissions
Require More Laser Power
5
PFD23A
PFD50DLA
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IT/Network Friendly
In the Sony XDCAM series of products, recordings are
made as data files in the industry-standard MXF (Material
eXchange Format) file format. This allows material to be
handled with great flexibility in an IT-based environment -
easily available for copying, transferring, sharing, and
archiving. All these operations are accomplished without
any “digitizing” process required. File-based data copying
allows for degradation-free dubbing of AV content, which
can be performed easily on a PC. The file-based
recording system also allows for material to be viewed
directly on a PC, simply by linking it to the XDCAM unit via
an i.LINK or Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) connection*.
This works in just the same way as a PC reading files on an
external drive.
The XDCAM HD camcorders and deck come equipped
with IT-friendly, PC-based interfaces.
These include an i.LINK interface supporting DV OUT and
File Access Mode as standard, plus a igabit Ethernet
interface available on the PDW-F75 deck as an option.
Connecting the XDCAM HD system to an Ethernet network
offers users a new style of network-based operations that
can dramatically improve the efficiency of their workflows.
The PDW-U1 drive uses the common USB interface for easy
connectivity and wide compatibility with most PCs.
*Supported interfaces vary by products.
No Overwriting to Footage
– For Immediate Recording Start
By virtue of recording on optical disc media, the XDCAM HD
system makes each new recording on an empty area of
the disc. This is extremely useful, especially when shooting
with camcorders, as it relieves the concerns of camera
operators about accidentally recording over good takes,
and eliminates the burden of searching for the correct
position to start the next recording. In short, it means the
camera is always ready for the next shot.
convenience, the ‘Expand’ function allows one selected clip
in the Thumbnail display to be divided into 12 even-time
intervals, each with their own thumbnail identifier. This is
useful if you want to quickly search for a particular scene
within a lengthy clip.
Scene Selection Function
The Scene Selection function allows simple cuts-only
editing* to be performed within the camcorder or deck
itself. The results of the edits can be saved as an XDCAM
EDL (called “Clip List”), which can be written back to the
original disc to stay with the material.
The disc can then be played back according to the Clip
List so that only selected portions are played out in the
desired order. The Scene Selection function presents
dramatic improvements to conventional workflows, such
as when transferring material to a nonlinear editor
and/or server, or when searching for material and/or edit
points in linear editing systems.
When UI-based operation is preferred, the Scene
Selection operation can also be performed on a PC
running the PDZ-1 Proxy Browsing Software supplied with
all XDCAM products, providing a visually familiar working
environment.
*The video and audio of a clip cannot be edited independently.
Expand Function
XDCAM HD
Instant-access Thumbnail Search with
“Expand” Function
With all XDCAM HD products, video and audio signals are
recorded as one clip file each time a recording is started
and stopped. During playback, cue-up to the next or
previous clips is possible simply by pressing the ‘Next’ or
‘Previous’ button, as you would do on a CD or DVD player.
Furthermore, thumbnails are automatically generated for
each clip as a visual reference, allowing operators to cue-up
to a desired scene simply by guiding the cursor to a
thumbnail and pressing the ‘Play’ button. For further
Selectable Modes of File Recording
XDCAM HD camcorders and the PDW-F75 deck provide
two types of file recording modes. In standard operation,
one clip file is created each time recording is started and
stopped*. In the other mode, called Clip Continuous REC
mode, which is a feature of the PDW-F335, PDW-F355, and
PDW-F75**, one clip file can be created at the users
discretion*. Although it is a single clip, Thumbnail Search
operation and the Expand function are available just as
if individual clips were created.
Users can choose the most suitable mode depending on
the type of application.
*Each take needs to be longer than two seconds.
**Available when recording is remotely controlled via an RS-442A or RS-232C
interface, or during Trigger REC mode via an HD-SDI interface.
Normal Mode
REC START REC START REC START
REC START REC START REC START
Clip 1
Clip 1
Clip 2 Clip 3
Clip Continuous REC Mode
Take 1 Take 2 Take 3
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Metadata
All XDCAM HD products are capable of recording a variety
of metadata, which provides a huge advantage when
searching for specific data after the initial recording has
been made. Information such as production dates, creator
names, and camera setup parameters can be saved
together with the AV material on the same disc using the
supplied PDZ-1 software. This makes it possible to organize
and search through all recordings effectively. One
particular metadata, called EssenceMark™ (Shot Mark), is a
convenient reference that can be added to desired frames
to make them easy to recall in subsequent editing processes.
Easy Maintenance and High Reliability
The XDCAM HD products use the same platform as the
XDCAM SD products that are in wide use around the world.
Having the advantage of no mechanical contact
between the equipment and recording media, both a high
level of durability and long media life have been achieved.
XDCAM HD products also offer the same high resistance to
shock and vibrations provided by the SD version of the
XDCAM products.
EssenceMark (Shot Mark 1) Display
Power of Proxy Data
– Highly Streamlined Workflows
At the same time as recording its high-resolution video and
audio data, the XDCAM HD products also record a
low-resolution version of this AV data on the same disc.
Called “Proxy Data”, this is much smaller in size than the
high-resolution data (1.5 Mb/s for video and 0.5 Mb/s for
audio), and its format is identical to that of the SD version of
the XDCAM products.
Because of its lower resolution, Proxy Data can be
transferred to a standard PC at an amazingly high speed,
and easily browsed and edited using the PDZ-1 Proxy
Browsing Software (or other compatible editing
software offered by many industry-leading manufacturers).
What’s more, with the PDZ-1 software, it can be converted
to the popular ASF format for playback on Windows®Media
Player, providing dramatic improvements in production
workflows. Proxy Data can also be viewed directly on a PC
without data transfer using an i.LINK (File Access Mode)
connection, and can even be sent over a standard
Ethernet network.
The overall flexibility of Proxy Data means that it can be used
for a variety of applications, such as immediate logging on
location, off-line editing, daily rushes of shooting on location,
client approvals, and more.
Other Features
XDCAM HD
Editing Solutions
The XDCAM HD products are equipped with both
conventional AV and IT-based interfaces for flexible
integration into a wide array of editing environments.
These interfaces* include HD-SDI, HD analog component
video, analog/digital audio, and RS-422A 9-pin remote
control - enabling connection to a wide variety of VTRs,
linear and nonlinear editors, and audio mixers.
SD interfaces**, including SD-SDI and SD analog composite,
are also provided for down-converted SD outputs, allowing
the XDCAM HD system to be integrated into a conventional
SD-based editing environment as well.
Another interface that all XDCAM** devices provide is an
i.LINK interface that supports DV OUT and File Access Mode.
Recordings made in both MPE HD and DVCAM formats
can be output as DV files via the i.LINK port, and then be
used in many DV-based nonlinear editing systems. The i.LINK
(File Access Mode) allows not only SD (DVCAM) files but also
HD (MPE HD) files to be written (recorded) onto and read
from Professional Disc media. This allows the user to establish
an extremely compact and affordable HD nonlinear editing
system, for example, using an XDCAM HD camcorder and
an i.LINK-compatible laptop PC.
Another new, powerful, yet cost-effective option for the
highly compact editing solution is the PDW-U1 drive unit.
This can serve as an external drive of a PC via the common
USB interface, and performs high-speed transfer of material
recorded on Professional Disc media to a nonlinear editing
system***.
*The supported interfaces vary by product.
**Except on the PDW-U1.
***Support for Macintosh OS is planned to be available in the first half of 2009.
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Effective File-based Content Management
File-based recording is one of
the most important features of
XDCAM HD products. To help manage all the content in a
file-based workflow, Sony’s HDXchange™ Networked
Content Management Server can be integrated to provide
a seamless content management solution by interfacing
with a wide range of production devices, such as nonlinear
editors, playout servers, and archiving storage systems. The
content, metadata, and Proxy Data are efficiently handled
in the entire workflow process.
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The PDW-F355 and PDW-F335 are highly versatile and cost-effective HD camcorders
that are equipped with three 1/2-inch-type HD CCDs, and offer HD recording in
1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 25P, and 23.98P modes – as well as DVCAM-format recording.
A rich variety of features useful for creative shooting are incorporated into these
camcorders such as Interval Recording, Slow-Shutter, and Selectable Gamma Curve.
Additionally, the PDW-F355 provides a “Slow & Quick Motion” function, which is
also commonly known as “over-cranking” and “under-cranking”.
Disc recording provides users with a number of benefits that are specifically useful
during shooting. For example, because new footage is always recorded onto an
empty area of the disc, there is no need to cue-up to the next recording position
before shooting. This means that operators can start shooting without the worry of
accidentally recording over existing footage.
In short, the XDCAM HD camcorders are ideally suited to a broad array of shooting
opportunities such as event shooting, news gathering, field productions, and indie
productions.
PDW-F355/PDW-F335 Camcorder
XDCAM HD Camcorders
PDW-F355 PDW-F335
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Slow & Quick Motion Function (PDW-F355)
The PDW-F355 offers a powerful Slow & Quick Motion
Function that enables users to create elegant fast- and
slow-motion footage – commonly known as over- and
under-cranking in film shooting. The PDW-F355 can capture
images at frame rates selectable from four fps (frame per
second) to 60 fps in increments of one fps.
For example, when viewed at 23.98P, images captured at
four fps will appear six times faster than normal. Conversely,
images captured at 60 fps will appear 2.5 times slower than
normal. The quality of the slow- and fast-motion images
created using the Sony PDW-F355 camcorder is extremely
high and incomparable to those created in the editing
process. Another spectacular thing about this feature is that
users can see the results right in the camcorder’s LCD
screen, without using any converters or processing on
nonlinear editing systems.
This great feature maximizes users’ shooting creativity while
achieving a high level of overall efficiency.
*When capturing at 31-60 fps (in 23.98P/29.97P mode)/26-50 fps
(in 25P mode), the camcorders provide lower vertical resolution
than in normal capturing mode.
*This function is available when the recording mode is set to “MPE HD”.
Format
23.98P, 29.97P
25P
Capturing
4P-60P in 1P increments
4P-50P in 1P increments
■1/2-inch type Three HD Power HAD CCDs
The XDCAM HD camcorders are equipped with
three 1/2-inch-type HD Power HAD™ CCDs, each
with a high density of approximately 1.56 megapixels
(1440 x 1080). These extremely high-performance
CCDs provide an outstanding sensitivity of F9
(at 2000 lx, 3200K), a remarkable signal-to-noise ratio
of 54 dB, and a low vertical smear level of -120 dB.
■12-bit A/D Conversion
The XDCAM HD camcorders incorporate a
high-integrity 12-bit A/D conversion circuit, which
allows images captured by the Power HAD CCDs to
be processed with great precision.
This high-resolution A/D conversion allows the
contrast to be reproduced faithfully in both
mid-to-dark tone and bright areas of the picture.
■ Advanced Digital Signal Processing (ADSP)
A key to quality in DSP cameras is how many bits
are used in their nonlinear processes, such as
gamma correction. The ADSP of the XDCAM HD
camcorders uses more than 30 bits in nonlinear
processes, minimizing round-off errors to maintain
the high quality of the Power HAD CCDs. The ADSP
also enables highly sophisticated image controls,
such as skin tone detail control and Dynamic
Contrast Controls.
■Multi-format Recording
– HD/SD and Interlace/Progressive
One of the big appeals of the XDCAM HD
camcorders is their highly flexible multi-format
recording capability. Users can select a recording
format from HD (MPE HD) or SD (DVCAM),
59.94i/50i interlace mode, or 29.97P/25P/23.98P
progressive mode. Operators can use this
camcorder for multiple purposes, both today and
into the future.
■Creative Versatility for Movie Making
The XDCAM HD camcorders,
part of Sony's proud CineAlta™
family, provide many creative
features for producing a
variety of movies. They offer the Slow & Quick
Motion Function (PDW-F355 only) for stunningly
impressive slow and fast motion images, and
Selectable amma Curves that are inherited from
the top-of-the-line CineAlta camcorder. The Interval
Recording function is another tool to create unique
ultra-fast moving images.
Interval Recording Function For Versatility and
Creativity
The XDCAM HD camcorders offer an Interval Recording
Function, which intermittently records signals at
pre-determined intervals. This is convenient for shooting over
long periods of time, and also when creating pictures with
special effects of extremely quick motion.
PRODUCT FEATURES
Selectable Gamma Curves
The XDCAM HD camcorders allow operators to choose from
five types of gamma curves (Standard, CINE 1, 2, 3 and 4).
The CINE 1-4 gamma curves provide natural tonal
reproductions for scenes with wide dynamic ranges.
The CINE 1 and 2 curves are inherited from Hyper amma,
which is available on the top-of-the-line CineAlta
camcorder.
Enhanced 24P Operation
For cinema and other high-quality production users, the new
PDW-F355 camcorder provides enhanced 24P operations.
enlock video input is available for 23.98PsF signals, allowing
multi-camera operations in 23.98P mode. It is also possible
to output 23.98PsF signals as well as 2-3 pull-down conversion
signals from the HD-SDI connector.
CINE 1
CINE 2
CINE 3
CINE 4
Standard
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The Slow Shutter function allows operators to use
shutter speeds longer than the frame rate, and to
intentionally blur images when shooting a moving
object, for increased shooting creativity.
The Turbo ain function allows the camera gain to
be boosted up to +48 dB.
■Picture Cache Recording
The XDCAM HD camcorders offer a “Picture Cache
Recording” function that is especially useful during
EN applications. Up to 12 seconds of audio and
video signals are buffered into the camcorder’s
memory before the Rec button is even pressed
(when in Standby mode). This means that
everything that happened 12 seconds before the
Rec button was pressed will still be recorded onto
disc – thereby preventing the loss of any
unexpected, yet important events.
■Flexible Image Controls
The XDCAM HD camcorders offer highly advanced
image control features such as Skin Tone Detail and
Dynamic Contrast Control, allowing operators to
create stunning images.
■High-quality Audio Recording
Sony XDCAM HD camcorders record high-quality
uncompressed four-channel audio in HD recording
mode. They are also equipped with a range of
audio interfaces.
■Compact and ightweight Body
XDCAM HD camcorders are designed to be very
compact, lightweight, and ergonomically well
balanced, providing a high level of mobility and
comfort in various shooting situations. They weigh
only 12 lb 2 oz (5.5 kg) including viewfinder,
microphone, disc, and BP- L95 battery pack.
■Shock and Dust-resistant Disc Drive
To minimize errors caused by shock or dust entering the
disc drive, XDCAM HD camcorders have several unique
ways of providing operational resistance to such
factors. The disc drive entrance is concealed by two
lids, helping to prevent any dust from entering the drive.
In addition,four rubber dampers are used to hold the
disc drive block in place and to absorb the shocks that
would otherwise go into the disc drive.
■3.5-inch* Color CD Screen
A large, easy-to-view, color LCD screen on the
camcorder’s side panel enables operators to
instantly review recorded footage, as well as access
the camera’s set-up menus and view status
indications such as four-channel audio meters, and
the remaining disc and battery time. It also enables
advanced operations such as Thumbnail Search
and Scene Selection.
*Viewable area measured diagonally.
XDCAM HD CAMCORDER
10
Wide Range of Angle-based Shutter-speed Settings
The XDCAM HD camcorders enable users to set the shutter
speed according to angle as well as time. Users can select
the shutter-speed setting from six pre-set values, which are
adjustable from 4.3 to 360 degrees in very fine increments
(see table below). This flexible shutter-speed capability
offers a great advantage over conventional film cameras
and allows for enhanced shooting creativity. The setting
value is displayed in the camcorder’s viewfinder.
Angle-based Shutter-speed Setting
■A Wide Choice of enses
The PDW-F335K model
comes equipped with the
VCL-719BXS/B servo focus
lens. This convenient
auto-focus lens helps
operators to adjust the focus
during manual-focus mode
simply by pushing the “PUSH AF” button.
It also provides a full-time auto-focus function that
automatically tracks the focus in a dynamic manner.
This is especially convenient for one-man shooting
situations, for example, where the camera operator is
also performing other tasks and does not have the
capacity to alter the focus manually.
In addition to this auto-focus lens,a variety of 1/2-inch-
type HD lenses are separately available from major
manufacturers to offer optimum performance of the
XDCAM HD camcorder.
A 2/3-inch-type lens* can also be used with the
XDCAM HD camcorder via its lens connector and the
optional LO-32BMT lens adaptor.
This allows users to choose from a broad range of
lenses, including cinema-style lenses, according to
their particular shooting requirements.
*In this configuration, the resulting focal length will be 1.37 times the
actual focal length of the lens.
■ ow-light Shooting With ‘Slow-Shutter’ and
‘Turbo Gain’ Functions
Sony XDCAM HD camcorders offer two convenient
features – Slow Shutter function and Turbo ain
function – for shooting in low-light conditions, which
can be used alone or together depending on the
situation or the operator’s preferences.
VCL-719BXS/B
LO-32BMT
Format
59.94i, 50i
29.97P, 23.98P, 25P
Range and step
4.5 to 360 degree (approx. 0.64-degree step)
4.3 to 360 degree (approx. 0.32-degree step)
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■Wide Variety of Interfaces
The XDCAM HD camcorders come equipped with a
wide range of interfaces as standard. The PDW-F355
and PDW-F335 provide different combinations of
interfaces – each optimized for various operational
needs.
*Timecode input and output of the PDW-F335 share the same
connector.
**1080/23.98P recordings are output as 1080/59.94i signals via 2-3
pull-down conversion.
■Easy-to-see Viewfinder
The PDW-F355 and the PDW-F335 are equipped with
the DXF-20W 2.0-inch* monochrome viewfinder as
standard. This enables convenient manual focusing
when shooting MPE HD footage in the 16:9
widescreen format.
*Viewable area measured diagonally
PDW-F335
Front stereo microphone,
audio (2-ch), timecode*,
genlock
HD analog component**/SD
analog component (selec-
table), SD analog composite,
timecode*, audio (Pin jack)
i.LINK
Input
Output
Others
PDW-F355
Front stereo microphone,
audio (2-ch), timecode,
genlock
HD-SDI/SD-SDI, SD analog
composite, timecode,
audio (XLR 5-pin)
i.LINK
■Affordable MPEG TS Option for Field and
Satellite Transmission
The HDCA-702 MPE TS Adaptor, which connects to
the PDW-F355 camcorder via HD-SDI, transmits an
MPE Transport Stream (TS) of MPE HD420 (1440 x
1080i) for either 1080i or 720P via DVB-ASI output. This
can be done simultaneously as the PDW-F355
records onto disc. The bit rate is selectable from
17.25 Mb/s to 43.25 Mb/s, which is suitable for
material transmissions using microwave and satellite
modulators. When the bit rate is 35 Mb/s or higher,
the 1920 x 1080i mode can be selected.
■Noise Reducing Mode
The XDCAM HD camcorders incorporate a
noise-reducing mode to reproduce low-light scenes
clearly.
PRODUCT FEATURES
11
Pre-recorded Materials in Disc
Camera Reporter
Switchable
Application Example at News Gathering
■ive & Play Function
The PDW-F355 camcorder has a “Live & Play”
function that can simultaneously output both
playback signals (images already recorded) and
incoming camera signals (images seen through the
viewfinder). Both signals are fed to their respective
output and viewfinder connectors independently,
and can be viewed at the same time. This allows
users to frame the next shot, adjust the exposure,
and even focus the lens while the camcorder is
playing back recordings from the disc.
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:23 AM Page 12

XDCAM HD CAMCORDER
Rear
Rear
Side
Side
Connector Panel (PDW-F355)
Connector Panel (PDW-F335)
12
Top view
■Other Camcorder Features
• Built-in ND filter wheel: Clear, 1/4ND, 1/16ND, 1/64ND
• Down-conversion output: MPE HD playback can be
converted to SD signals and output via the SD
composite, component*, or i.LINK (DV OUT) connector
• Freeze Mix function: superimposes a previously
recorded image on the viewfinder. This allows the
operator to quickly and easily frame or reposition a
subject when a shot must be taken from the same
position or in the same framework as a previous take
• Thumbnail Search operation
• Expand function
• Scene Selection function for in-camera cuts-only editing**
• Ability to write EDL (the result of the Scene Selection)
back onto disc
• Proxy Data recording
• Four assignable buttons: two on the camera handle
and two on the inside panel, which enable operators
to assign frequently used functions
• Auto Tracing White Balance for automatic adjustments in
camera color temperature according to lighting
changes
• Memory Stick™ and Memory Stick Pro™ media function
(up to 2 B): for storage of camcorder setup files
• Metadata recording: UMID, Extended UMID, Essence
Mark (Shot Mark)
• Sony WRR-855 Series Wireless Microphone Receiver
can be easily attached to the camcorder via the
optional CA-WR855 adaptor
• Remote control operation via the Sony RM-B150 and
RM-B750 remote control units
• Intelligent light system synchronizes strobe on/off to
the REC button
• Four types of software supplied***: PDZ-1 Proxy
Browsing Software, PDZ-VX10 XDCAM Viewer Software,
Proxy Viewer Software, and PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer
Software (for use with Apple Final Cut Pro™ software)
*SD component output is only available on the PDW-F335.
**The video and audio cannot be edited independently.
***The latest versions of software can be downloaded from the Sony
Website. Please contact your nearest Sony office for details.
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:23 AM Page 13

PRODUCT FEATURES
WRR-855S
Wireless
Microphone Receiver*
CA-WR855
Camera Adaptor
Intelligent Light System
PDW-F355/F335
1/2-inch Type Lens
BP-L60S/L80S
Lithium Ion Battery Pack
BP-GL95/GL65
Lithium Ion Battery Pack
AC-DN10 AC Adaptor
VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor
(supplied)
8-pin
or
RM-B150 RM-B750
Remote Control Unit
DXF-20W
(supplied with PDW-F355/F335)
DXF-51 (optional)
View finder
or
2/3-inch Type Lens
LO-32BMT
2/3-inch Type
Lens Mount Adaptor
Battery Chargers
BC-L70
PFD23A
(supplied, x1)
Recording Media
HD-SDI/SD-SDI (PDW-F355)
HD/SD Analog Component (PDW-F335)
SD Analog Composite (PDW-F355/F335)
i.LINK (PDW-F355/F335)
*WRR-861 or WRR-862 Series of
wireless microphone receiver can
also be used. (requires A-8278-
057-B bracket)
Unless specified as "supplied", all the components below are optional.
BC-L500
PFD50DLA
ECM-674/678/680S
Electric Condenser Microphone
ECM-674/678 require K-1502 3-pin
to 5-pin Conversion Cable
Memory Stick media
Memory Stick Pro Media
(up to 2GB)
BC-L160
Camcorder System Diagrams
13
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:23 AM Page 14

XDCAM HD Decks / Drive / Car t
PDW-F75 Recording Deck / PDW-U1 Drive Unit
The XDCAM HD deck is highly versatile, and can be used for many different applications
including HD video recording, linear/nonlinear editing, and presentations at large
exhibition or conference venues.
The PDW-F75 is a powerful recording deck that is equipped with a comprehensive range
of interfaces including HD-SDI input and output, HD analog component, composite outputs, and more.
It can record in both MPEG HD and DVCAM formats* for recording flexibility. What's more, the PDW-F75
can handle the new PFD50DLA dual layer disc and the PFD23A disc, achieving a long recording time of
approximately 4.5 hours for HD recording. The PDW-F75 also offers the capability to input and output a
25-Mb/s HDV stream (MPEG-2 TS) for interfacing with HDV™ products or HDV-based nonlinear editors via
their i.LINK port**.
The PDW-F75 is equipped with a VTR-like jog dial, providing familiar and fast control of the playback. In
addition to the random-access capability, “Thumbnail Search”,“Expand”, and “Scene Selection”
functions significantly increase operational efficiency.
*Possible from inputs via the SD-SD or SD analog composite interfaces, which require the optional PDBK-104 board.
**Requires the optional PDBK-102 board.
14
PDW-F75

PDW-F75 Fea ures
■MPEG HD recording at 35,25,and 18 Mb/s
via HD-SDI, HD analog component,
and RGB input (HD analog component
and RGB input requires the optional
PDB -103 board)
■Up-conversion recording (requires the
optional PDB -104 board): Input from
SD-SDI or SD composite connectors can
be recorded in the MPEG HD format
■Playback of MPEG HD and DVCAM
material
■Down-conversion output: MPEG HD playback can be
converted to SD signals and output via the SD-SDI, SD
composite, and i.LIN (DV OUT) connectors.
■Up-conversion output: DVCAM playback can be
converted to 1080i HD signals and output via the
HD connectors.
■Recording in the DVCAM format from input via the
SD-SDI or SD analog composite interfaces (which
require the optional PDB -104 board)
■Compatible with the PDJ-A640 Cart*1
■Handles both the new dual-layer disc (PFD50DLA)
and single-layer disc (PFD23A)
■Three types of picture output modes are supported:
Edge crop, Squeeze, and Letterbox (16:9/14:9/13:9),
as well as down-conversion output
■Thumbnail Search operation
■Expand function
■Scene Selection function for in-deck cuts-only editing*2
■16:9, 3.5-inch*3color LCD screen for displaying
playback pictures, audio monitors, timecode and
setup menus
■Equipped with a Jog/Shuttle dial, providing VTR-like
operation — Jog/Variable: -1 to +2 times normal
speed, Shuttle: ±20 times normal speed
■Trigger REC function (synchronized recording
with compatible camcorders*4via an HD-SDI
input)
■Clip Continuous REC mode*5
■Repeat playback function
■A simple Remote Commander™ unit is supplied.
■Gigabit Ethernet capability for network-based file transfer
(requires the optional PDB -101 board)
■Input and output 25 Mb/s HDV stream (MPEG-2 TS) for
interfacing with HDV products or HDV-based nonlinear
editor via an i.LIN port (requires the optional PDB -102
board)
■Compact and lightweight design; can be placed either
horizontally or vertically
■Four types of software supplied*6: PDZ-1 Proxy Browsing
Software, PDZ-VX10 XDCAM Viewer Software, Proxy
Viewer Software and PDZ -P1 XDCAM Transfer Software
(for Apple Final Cut Pro)
*1: Requires the optional PDB -A640 cart mount kit
*2: The video and audio cannot be edited independently.
*3: Viewable area measured diagonally.
*4: HDW-730/750 series, HDW-790, and HDW-F900R HDCAM™ camcorders.
*5: Available when recording is remotely controlled via RS-442A or RS-232C
interface, or during Trigger REC mode via an HD-SDI interface.
*6: The latest versions of software can be downloaded from the Sony Website.
Please contact your nearest Sony office for details.
In erface Op ions
Four types of optional boards are available for the deck:
• PDB -101: Provides a Gigabit Ethernet Interface with the
PDW-F75
• PDB -102*: Allows 25 Mb/s HDV stream (MPEG-2 TS) to be
input and output between the PDW-F75 deck and an
HDV device
• PDB -103*: Provides the HD analog component and RGB
inputs with the PDW-F75 (these inputs share the same
BNC connectors)
• PDB -104*: Provides the SD-SDI and SD composite input
with the PDW-F75
*Only one of the PDB -102, PDB -103 or PDB -104 boards can be installed at
any one time.
PRODUCT FEATURES
PDJ-A640
15
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 3/4/09 10:10 AM Page 16

PRODUCT FEATURES
16
PDW-F75
Input
utpuat
thers
HD-SDI
HD analog component
RGB
SD-SDI
SD analog composite
Digital audio
Analog audio
Timecode
Reference
HD-SDI
HD analog component
RGB
SD-SDI
SD analog composite
Digital audio
Analog audio
Audio monitor
Timecode
i.LINK (DV UT)
i.LINK (File Access Mode)
i.LINK (HDV)
Ethernet
Remote
PDW-F75
●
●w/PDBK-103
●w/PDBK-103
●w/PDBK-104
●w/PDBK-104
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●w/PDBK-102
●w/PDBK-101
RS-422, RS-232C
*
*
Inputs/Outputs
*HD analog component and R B outputs share the same
D-Sub 15-pin connector.
**1080/23.98P recordings are output as1080/59.94i signals via 2-3
pull-down conversion.
PDW-F75
**
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:23 AM Page 17

■Handles files in XDCAM HD and SD formats
■Handles both the new dual-layer disc (PFD50DLA) and single-layer disc
(PFD23A)
■Supports the Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) interface - compatible with most PCs
■Direct access to files on Professional Disc media from a USB-connected PC
■High-speed file transfers with the newly developed optical drive
■Material browsing on the supplied PDZ-VX10 XDCAM Viewer software** and
PDZ-1 Proxy Browsing software**
■Highly compact and lightweight
■Dimensions (W x H x D): 2 3/8 x 6 1/2 x 9 inches (59 x 164 x 226 mm)
■Weight: 3 lb 1 oz (1.4 kg)
■Can be operated either horizontally or vertically
*Support for Macintosh®OS is planned to be available in the first half of 2009.
** The latest versions of software can be downloaded from the Sony Website. Please contact your
nearest Sony office for details.
XDCAM HD
PDW-U1
The PDW-U1* is a new, powerful addition to the XDCAM HD lineup,
which offers a compact, mobile, and highly cost-effective solution
for many different applications.
It serves as an external drive connected via a common USB
interface, and enables material recorded on Professional Disc
media to be viewed directly on a PC. The PDW-U1 can also be
used as a source feeder for nonlinear editing systems.
One of the most distinguished features of the PDW-U1 is its
capability to handle both XDCAM HD and SD discs, providing a
high level of versatility and cost-efficiency.
Its compact and lightweight design makes it equally ideal for field
and in-house desktop uses. PDW-U1 Drive Unit
17
Power requirements
Power consumption
Operating temperature
Strage temperature
Humidity
Weight
Dimensions
Recording
/playback format
Interfaces
Supplied accessories
DC 12 V
10 W
+41 to +104 °F (5 to 40 °C)
-4 to +140 °F (-20 to +60 °C)
20 to 90% (relative humidity)
3 lb 1 oz (1.4 kg)
2 3/8 x 6 1/2 x 9 inches (59 x 164 x 226 mm)
MPE HD422 (50 Mb/s)
MPE HD (35/25/18 Mb/s)
MPE IMX (50/40/30 Mb/s)
DVCAM (25 Mb/s)
MPE -4
MPE HD422: 8 ch/24 bits/48 kHz
MPE HD: 4/2 ch/16 bits/48 kHz
MPE IMX: 8 ch/16 bit/48 kHz, or 4 ch/24 bit/48 kHz
DVCAM: 4 ch/16 bit/48 kHz
A-law (8/4/2 ch/8 bit/8 kHz)
Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) x 1
Operation manual (x 1)
PDZ-1 Proxy Browsing Software (x 1)
PDZ-VX10 XDCAM Viewer Software (x 1)
PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer Software (x 1)
XDCAM Drive Software (x 1)
Video
Proxy Video
Audio
Proxy Audio
PDW-U1
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:23 AM Page 18

PDZ-1 Main GUI
■Supported interfaces: i.LINK (File Access Mode), Ethernet, and USB
(only for connection with the PDW-U1)
■High-speed ingestion of Proxy Data from the XDCAM devices
■Browsing of Proxy Data recorded by the XDCAM systems (including
those recorded by the SD version of the XDCAM system)
■Simple and quick cuts-only editing (storyboarding)* with the
following fuctions;
• Preview a result of the storyboard on the PC
• Save the results as a Clip List (XDCAM EDL)
• Convert the Proxy Data on the storyboard to an ASF file for
replay on Windows Media Player
• Export the Clip List in AAF, BVE-9100, NewsBase™ XML, and ALE
(Avid Log Exchange) formats
• Transfer high-resolution clips according to the Clip List
■Disc copy – entire disc (all clips) or only selected clips
■Transfer selected clips with margins at the head and tail of the
clips
■Registration of metadata such as “title”,“creator”, or “comments”
for a disc or clip
■Registration of “Essence Mark” metadata for instant cue-up to
desired scenes. Names for the Essence Mark can also be easily
assigned
■Automatic renaming of clips by predetermined rule
(use-predetermined prefix plus sequential numbers)
■Clip search function using the registered metadata as a keyword
■Print function allows metadata such as thumbnails, creation date,
and comments to be printed out in an easy-to-see storyboard view
*The video and audio of a clip cannot be edited independently.
Print Function
XDCAM HD
PDZ-1 Features
System Requirements
OS: Windows XP (SP2 or later)
Windows Vista Business 32bit/Ultimate 32bit
CPU: Pentium M Processor or higher
NOTE:When using Live Logging Mode, recommended CPU is
Pentium4 2 Hz or higher
RAM: 512 MB or more
Others: Internet Explorer 6.0 (SP1 or later), DirectX 8.1b or later
XDCAM Application Software
All XDCAM HD products come with a variety of free application software packages
that maximize the benefits of the XDCAM’s disc- and file-based operations.
■PDZ-1
The PDZ-1 software is a simple-to-use PC application that allows users to easily browse and
storyboard video clips recorded by an XDCAM system. It runs on Windows-based PCs and supports three
types of interfaces: i.LINK (File Access Mode), Ethernet, and USB (only for connection with the PDW-U1).
Once Proxy Data recorded on a Professional Disc media is transferred to a PC with the PDZ-1
software installed, users can conveniently view and storyboard recorded footage right on the PC.
The PDZ-1 software also provides a variety of convenient tools for disc operations such as entire or
partial disc copy (dubbing), and transfer between two XDCAM devices.
Storyboarding on a PC not only allows users to preview their edited sequences instantly, it also
provides other powerful benefits such as the creation of ASF files (playable on Windows Media
Player) and EDL data in various EDL formats, plus the transfer of high-resolution clips selected in the
edited sequence.
18
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:23 AM Page 19

XDCAM HD
■PDZ-VX10 Sony XDCAM Viewer
The PDZ-VX10 software allows users to view
high-resolution and Proxy MXF files recorded by
XDCAM systems on their PC. With this software
installed, thumbnails for all clips can be displayed
in Windows Explorer, enabling the contents of the
disc to be scanned through easily and quickly.
■PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer for Apple Final Cut Pro nonlinear editing systems
The PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer is plug-in software for Apple Final Cut Pro nonlinear editing systems
that provides native support for MXF files recorded by XDCAM systems. With this software installed,
XDCAM devices can be mounted on Mac Finder via a FireWire/i.LINK connection, and users can
seamlessly import, edit, and export recorded material.
■Proxy Viewer
The Proxy Viewer is a simple application to play
back Proxy Data on a PC.
The latest versions of software can be downloaded from the Sony Website.
Please go to www.sony.com/XDCAM
19
System Requirements
OS: Windows XP (SP2 or later), Windows Vista Business 32bit/Ultimate 32bit
CPU: Pentium M Processor or higher
RAM: 512 MB or more
Others: Internet Explorer 6.0 (SP1 or later), DirectX 8.1b or later
System Requirements
OS: Windows XP (SP2 or later), Windows Vista Business 32bit/Ultimate 32bit
CPU: Intel Core Duo processor 1.83 Hz or higher or Intel Pentium4 3 Hz or higher
Recommend to use Intel Core 2 Duo 2.6 Hz or higher for HD422 50M playback
RAM: 1 B or more
Others: Internet Explorer 6.0 (SP1 or later), DirectX 9.0c or later
System Requirements
OS:
Mac OS X version Tiger 10.4.11 or later
Mac OS X version Leopard 10.5 or later
CPU: PowerPC 5 2 Hz,
Intel Core2Duo 2 Hz, Intel Xeon 2 Hz
or higher
Others: QuickTime version Ver7.3.1 or
later Final Cut Pro version 6.0.3 or later
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:23 AM Page 20

XDCAM HD
20
■Ideal for multi-disc ingesting, archiving, and on-air playout applications
■Equipped with VCC protocol (RS-422 or RS-232C)
■Equipped with a barcode reader unit
■PDJ-CS10 Cart Interface Software allows third-party applications to
transfer files from the cart over the network, without controlling the cart’s
robotics or decks.
■High reliability and low-cost maintenance
PDJ-A640 Cart Features
The PDJ-A640 is an automated robotic cart system ideal for multi-
disc ingesting, archiving, and on-air operations. It accommodates
up to four PDW-F75* decks and up to 640 discs. The PDW-1500
deck in the SD version of the XDCAM lineup can also be installed
in the PDJ-A640 cart.
This cart system is equipped with a standard VCC control protocol,
allowing easy integration into existing systems. The total storage
capacity is 15 Terabytes using 640 discs. PDJ-CS10 Cart Interface
Software allows third-party applications to transfer files from the
cart over the network, without controlling the cart’s robotics
or decks.
With the XDCAM’s file-based operations and metadata capability,
as well as the reliability, long life and small physical size of the
Professional Disc media, this system provides significant
operational benefits, greater reliability, reduced operational costs,
and space-saving benefits compared to tape-based systems.
*Requires the optional PDBK-A640 cart mount kit.
PDJ-A640 with two PDW-F75 decks
and two PDW-1500 decks installed
PDJ-A640 connector panel
SONY55179_XDCam:SONY53547_XDCam 2/27/09 9:23 AM Page 21