P 2 H D XA G - H P X 5 0 0 PRACTICAL GUIDEBOOK

List of Terms

Bayonet Mount

This is a mounting format for lenses that makes them easy to attach and remove. The name derives from the socket-type fastening mechanism used for mounting bayonets on rifles. The movement used to mount the lens on the camera works similarly, hence the name. There are three or four pins on the lens mounting portion and matching slots on the body mounting portion. To mount the lens, you slide the pins into the slots and then turn the lens to lock it. Most lenses for commercial video cameras and still cameras use bayonet mounts. Exceptions include wide conversion lenses and the like that employ threaded screw-on mounts.

BNC

BNC stands for "bayonet Neill-Concelman" and is a type of connector for coaxial cables. On the AG- HPX500, BNC connectors are used for the HD-SDI, VIDEO OUT, T/C, and GENLOCK outputs. These connectors have comparatively good frequency characteristics and can be made quite compact, so they are used widely for a variety of communication applications in addition to video signals. The connecting portion has no threading. Instead, it uses a bayonet mechanism that locks when the connector is inserted and turned. BNC connectors are compatible with coaxial cables ranging from 1.5D to 5D, among which 5D and 3D cables are widely used in commercial applications.

CAC (Chromatic Aberration Compensation)

The CAC function built into the body of the camera-recorder unit corrects registration error caused primarily by minute chromatic aberration that cannot be corrected by the lens itself. This helps minimize rainbow color effects around the periphery of the image.

Clip Thumbnail

Clip thumbnails are miniature stills from video clips recorded on a P2 card that are displayed in a list format. On the AG-HPX500 a list of clip thumbnails is displayed when you switch from REC mode to MCR mode (the equivalent of VCR mode in a camcorder using videocassette tape). One thumbnail is displayed for each clip in the order captured, from top left to lower right. It is also possible to display clip thumbnails in P2Viewer and some nonlinear editing programs. *1 (The clip thumbnail list cannot be displayed on an external monitor connected to the camera.)

DSP

DSP stands for "digital signal processor," a type of specialized microprocessor for manipulating digital signals. The AG-HPX500 is equipped with a high-performance DSP that performs 14-bit A/D conversion and 19-bit "inner processing". It also adjusts the gamma and other settings for the R, G, and B segments of 1080/60p (50p) video signals, as well as performing batch conversion (P/I conversion, line conversion, down conversion) between HD and SD formats. It is due to this advanced DSP that the AG-HPX500 can produce high-picture-quality output in any supported video format.

Frame Rate Converter

This converts recording or playback frame rates for only the valid frames in data stored using the Over60p mode variable frame rate. It plays the frames using the slow- or quick-motion effect that was intended when the frames were shot. In addition to the AJ-FRC27 hardware used in products such as the VariCam, some companies also offer plug-in software for non-linear systems.

The AG-HPX500 and AG-HVX200 allow native-mode recording that is only possible by recording onto P2 cards, so that slow- and quick-motion playback on the camera is possible without an FRC.

Gold Mount/V Mount

These are mounting formats used to mount the commercial camera battery on the camera body. They are types of battery mounts. Gold Mount is the type used by batteries from Anton/Bauer and is included by default on the AG-HPX500. V Mount is used by batteries from companies such as IDX.

HD/SD-SDI

SDI stands for "serial digital interface," one of the video signal transfer standards used by commercial video equipment. It allows transfer of uncompressed digital video of standard quality and digital audio over a single coaxial cable connected using BNC connectors. HD-SDI is the standard for transferring HD video and SD- SDI is for SD video. The video signal is transferred as both a component signal and as a composite signal, but these two formats are not compatible with each other.

Hot Swap

This function makes it possible to replace P2 cards that are not in use while the P2cam is operating or recording.

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Panasonic P2HDXAG-HPX500 manual Bayonet Mount, Clip Thumbnail, Frame Rate Converter, Gold Mount/V Mount, Hot Swap
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P2HDXAG-HPX500 specifications

The Panasonic P2HDXAG-HPX500 is a state-of-the-art digital cinema camera that has been designed for professional filmmakers and broadcasters looking for high-quality video production. This camera is part of Panasonic's renowned P2 HD range, which is known for its reliability and superior performance. The HPX500 is particularly favored for its versatility in various shooting environments, making it an excellent choice for documentary filmmaking, event coverage, and corporate videos.

One of the standout features of the HPX500 is its high-definition recording capability. It supports both 720p and 1080i resolutions, utilizing the Advanced Video Codec High Definition (AVC-HD) format. This allows users to achieve stunningly sharp images and rich colors, providing a cinematic experience that elevates the quality of their projects. Furthermore, the camera can record in full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels, ensuring that every detail is captured with clarity.

The camera employs a three 1/3-inch CCD sensor configuration, which significantly enhances its sensitivity to light. This results in superior low-light performance, enabling filmmakers to shoot in challenging lighting conditions without compromising image quality. Additionally, the HPX500 incorporates a sophisticated image processing engine that contributes to its excellent color reproduction and dynamic range.

Another notable technology featured in the HPX500 is the integrated P2 card system. This allows for immediate, high-speed recording directly onto the P2 memory cards, providing a reliable and efficient workflow. The cards offer robust storage capacity and exceptional data transfer speeds, which are crucial for high-definition video shoots. Moreover, the camera supports dual card slots, enabling simultaneous recording for backup or extended media management, which is vital for live event coverage.

The ergonomic design of the HPX500 ensures that it is user-friendly, even during extended shooting sessions. It features adjustable viewing angles and a comprehensive set of manual controls that empower operators to make quick adjustments on the fly. The camera also has multiple connectivity options, including HD-SDI, allowing for seamless integration with existing production equipment.

In summary, the Panasonic P2HDXAG-HPX500 is a powerful digital cinema camera equipped with advanced technologies that cater to the needs of professional filmmakers. With its high-definition recording capability, enhanced low-light performance, robust P2 card system, and user-friendly design, the HPX500 stands out as a reliable choice for high-quality video production across various genres.
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