Category Archives: AV

AV, AV tech, News, Security, Tech, Technology

i-PRO Announces Revolutionary New AI On-site Learning Camera Line that Adds AI to Non-AI Cameras

Introduces AI on-site learning to recognize user-defined objects and utilize advanced custom analytics

i-PRO Co. Ltd., a global leader in professional security solutions for surveillance and public safety, today announced a revolutionary new line of cameras that turn non-AI network cameras into AI smart devices. Using AI onsite learning, the new X Series enables users to teach the camera about specific objects they want to monitor. With support for up to nine AI applications, it is the most powerful AI camera to date from i-PRO.

“The X Series cameras demonstrate our commitment to setting new standards of innovation that are helping to shape the future of our industry,” said Masato Nakao, CEO, i-PRO Co., Ltd. “We take immense pride in the accomplishments of our product and engineering teams as they bring this ground-breaking technology to market.”

 

Extending the life of older cameras

A unique aspect of the X Series camera is its ability to significantly enhance traditional cameras with AI capabilities. This innovative feature allows customers to add AI capabilities to their existing, non-AI, surveillance cameras, including cameras from other manufacturers, making them smarter and more efficient. This cost-effective solution improves existing systems and further reduces false alarms. Cameras with limited AI integration to popular VMSs like Milestone and Genetec can now achieve complete parity utilizing this function and i-PRO Active Guard software.

 

Advanced AI on-site learning

The new on-site AI learning feature lets customers teach the camera about custom objects they wish to identify and search for or track. For example, operators could teach the camera to count forklifts passing through the camera’s field of view to provide new metrics about operational efficiency. A hospital could count ambulances arriving at the emergency room. The camera can even be taught to recognize a logo on a truck and send out an alert when it arrives at the loading dock. The AI On-site Learning app can even auto-generate multiple training images at different luminance values saving operators valuable time while increasing detection accuracy.

 

“The new i-PRO X Series represents a groundbreaking leap forward in AI-enhanced surveillance. We’re not just introducing a product, we’re transforming the industry by making older network cameras smarter,” said Norio Hitsuishi, Chief Product Officer, i-PRO Co., Ltd. “By utilizing the latest Ambarella chip and introducing AI on-site learning, the possibilities are infinite. We now believe this is the most powerful AI camera in the security market.”

 

i-PRO is utilizing the latest Ambarella AI SoC (CV52) to provide security professionals with all the benefits that edge AI cameras can offer to better protect assets, people, and property while optimizing their operational efficiency and reducing the burden of routine monitoring.

The new X Series includes 16 new camera models including eight bullet cameras, four interior domes, and four exterior domes with 2, 5, and 6MP options plus 4K models. With Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) of up to 144dB and IR illumination to 70 meters, image performance is unparalleled in all conditions. Designed and manufactured in Japan, the NDAA compliant cameras support the highest level of cybersecurity with FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certification, secure boot, and GlobalSign digital certificates.

 

For more information, visit:

https://i-pro.com/products_and_solutions/en/surveillance/products/new-products/new-x-series-camera-ai-site-learning-analytics

 

About i-PRO

i-PRO Co., Ltd., is a global leader of advanced sensing technologies in the fields of Intelligent Surveillance, Public Safety, and Medical Imaging. Established in 2019, i-PRO was built on a legacy of over 60 years of innovation with Panasonic.

The company’s products, software and services extend human senses to capture moments of truth with innovations that inform and protect. In order to help create a safer world, i-PRO Co., Ltd., supports the work of professionals who protect and save lives.

AV, AV tech, News

Vivitek Projectors Create Stunning Projection Experiences with Sala Immersiva’s Scenographic Project

Vivitek – the visual display brand for all meeting spaces – has announced that its DU8395Z, DU9800Z and DU9900Z projectors have been chosen for use in stunning immersive projection experiences created by Playartmultimedia. The scenographic project has been enlivening events ranging from private wedding events to public town activities in over 150 venues across Italy.

Immersive projection experiences are much in demand, thrilling audiences with their fusion of colour, vivid images and punchy soundtracks. As with many modern artistic endeavours, the immersive rooms – or ‘Sala Immersiva’ – marries a labour of love with the latest in AV and IT technology to bring the visual extravaganza to life.

The driving force behind Sala Immersiva is Giuseppe Casciello, Art Director, Playartmultimedia. Commenting on the concept, he said: “My inspiration is spurred by the necessary and continuous evolution of this wonderful art form. For the past five years, I have given myself the tough task of always innovating and creating new projects. I get a buzz from creating ‘wow!’ art forms.” In addition to generating the concept, Giuseppe also immerses himself in his work, spending time with those who commission it to understand their vision as well as with his technical team to ensure they are able to realise it.

After assessing the projector options available, Giuseppe decided on a selection of ten projectors with multiple lens options including the feature-rich Vivitek DU8395Z, the Vivitek DU9800Z and the Vivitek DU9900Z for the project. The projectors were chosen for their performance, their outstanding quality/price ratio and their excellent sales support.

Having been designed for advanced projection requirements such as mapping, edge blending or picture-in-picture mode, the DU8395Z is well suited to its task. The WUXGA laser projector offers a constant light output of 15,000 lumens and a 3,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio for clear, crisp, and bright projection image. The device offers a compelling mix of features and connectivity options.

Supplementing it, is the Vivitek DU9800Z, a Single Chip WUXGA Laser Projector that delivers 18,000 ANSI Lumens with its laser light source, the DU9800Z delivers up to 20,000 hours of operation. Additionally, the projector presents many benefits to System Integrators due to its relatively small form factor and light weight that enables simple and swift installation. Vivitek offers a Constant Brightness feature to help reduce blending maintenance and customise brightness with a built-in light sensor inside the projector monitors the level of light. Engineered to be very stable, the DU9800Z is ideally suited to 24/7 operation with low user intervention making it an excellent choice for Sala Immersiva.

Rounding off the projection trio is the Vivitek DU9900Z-BK ultra high bright SSL laser projector. It is a single-chip DLP projector with 22,000 lumens high brightness designed for ProAV rental, staging and large venue applications. The Single Chip WUXGA laser projector offers a constant light output of 22,000 lumens and a 3,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. The Constant Brightness feature helps reduce blending maintenance with a smart sensor continuously measuring and adjusting the illumination output. The projector can run continuously for 30,000 hours in Eco Mode, guaranteeing 24/7 operation with low user intervention.

Depending on the scenographic projections being displayed, the number of projectors being used varies. In some cases, Giuseppe has used up to 24 video projectors – connected to two super PCs synchronized with each other – but the ‘average’ event is typically supported by anywhere between six to 14 video projectors.  In addition to the Vivitek projectors, the project is brought to life via MSI Titan Extreme Laptops optimised for large 8K resolution projects. Handling the mapping is Resolume Arena, while HDMI fibre-optic cables and video signal processors – such as Matrox QuadHead2Go – distribute its specific content to each of the large venue laser projectors.

Giuseppe explains that his projections are always an integral part of his trail-blazing events – “the engine behind them, if you like”, and, at the end of August, he took Sala Immersiva – and the technology that underpins it – to the Amalfi coast for an international project; the stunning coastline created a perfect backdrop for outdoor mapping to impress the audience with yet another successful scenographic project.

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About Vivitek

Vivitek is a leading brand offering award-winning digital projection, wireless collaboration and digital signage solutions. Vivitek is committed to enabling the visualisation and sharing of information from multiple devices in the easiest and most secure way possible. Simple. Guaranteed. For more information about Vivitek, please visit www.vivitek.eu

AV, AV tech, Marketing and PR, News

What is a Video Production Company?

In today’s digital age, video has become an integral part of corporate and marketing strategies. Whether you are a business looking to create compelling advertisements, product demos, training videos, or engaging content for your website and social media platforms, a video production company can be your path to truly engaging your audience.

Here, Wallbreaker delve into creating high-quality content with a video production company and providing valuable tips for hiring the right one.

What is a Video Production Company?

Simply put, a video production company is a specialised agency or firm dedicated to the creation, development, and production of videos for a whole range of reasons.

These can range from straight up marketing and advertising to more specialised training and internal communications to keep your workforce informed and safe.

A typical video agency will have access to a top team of professionals, including videographers, editors, writers, directors, and other experts, to make your product shine..

Roles and Services of Video Production Companies

Concept Development: Video production companies often start by helping clients conceptualise their ideas into a concrete video concept that works for them. They work closely with clients to understand their goals, target audience, and messaging objectives.

Scriptwriting: Professional script writers craft compelling narratives that convey the client’s message effectively. Whether it’s a corporate training video to go through a process or a promotional piece that pops, a well-written script is crucial for success.

Pre-Production: This phase involves planning, casting, location scouting, and scheduling. It’s the foundation on which the entire video production process is built and without it, you may well struggle.

Shooting: During this stage, videographers capture footage using high-quality cameras and equipment. They ensure that lighting, sound, and visual elements align with the project’s vision and help make sure things run to time, budget and crucially, energy levels!

Editing and Post-Production: Skilled editors then work on the raw footage, adding gripping graphics, suitable music, informative voiceovers, and a range of dazzling special effects. They refine the content to create a polished final product that you can be proud of.

Distribution and Marketing: Some video production companies offer distribution and marketing services to help clients reach their intended audience effectively. This includes optimising videos for different platforms and managing advertising campaigns.

Why Hire a Video Production Company?

Professionalism: Video production companies bring a wealth of expertise to the table. They have access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology, ensuring your video looks and sounds its best. They also know how to adapt and utilise changing factors like weather, shooting plans and other circumstances to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Creativity: These companies often have a team of creative professionals who can turn your ideas into visually captivating and engaging content. If you’re not feeling creative, then a good video production company can step in and suggest amazing ways to get your message across.

Efficiency: Video production can be time-consuming and complex. By outsourcing to experts, you can focus on your core business while they handle the technical aspects.

Consistency: Video production companies can maintain a consistent quality across all your video content, helping you establish a strong brand identity. It’s no good having varying quality and haphazard video content giving mixed messaging about your business.

Tips for Hiring the Right Video Production Company

Define Your Goals: Before approaching a video production company, clearly outline your objectives, target audience, budget, and timeline. Knowing what you want will help the company tailor their services to your needs. It also helps both parties create an amazing final cut!

Portfolio and References: Review the company’s portfolio to assess the quality of their previous work. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or client testimonials to gauge their professionalism and client satisfaction. Ask if they have specific footage that relates to you! If you aren’t confident or comfortable with their answers, move on!

Experience: Look for a company with experience in your industry or niche. Industry-specific knowledge can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of your video content. Whereas an inexperienced videographer might be cheap, experience costs for a reason.

Creative Capabilities: Assess the company’s creativity and storytelling abilities. A good video should not only convey information but also engage and inspire the audience. What have they achieved before? Do they have a track record of making an impact on their audience?

Budget Transparency: Ensure the company is transparent about pricing and any potential additional costs. A reputable company will provide a clear breakdown of expenses as well as timelines.

Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication is vital. Choose a company that is willing to collaborate closely with you throughout the production process and is responsive to your feedback. Collaboration is key and there’s a lot to be said for keeping in touch.

Technology and Equipment: Find out about the technology and equipment they use. High-quality equipment can make a substantial difference in the final product’s quality but you also want to factor in skill into the equation.

Thinking of producing some messaging-rich content with a video production company? Get in touch with Wallbreaker today on 01522 305376.

AV, AV tech, News, Tech, Technology

Panasonic Connect Intros Two New IP Systems To Support Live Production Transition

New 4K/IP Camera Control Unit to Offer Robust IP Connectivity and new KAIROS addition for increased redundancy

Panasonic Connect Europe today announced a new camera control unit (CCU) to support a wide range of IP migration paths for the company’s existing 4K studio camera systems. As the live-production industry migrates to IP-based systems, this new AK-UCU700 series offers 4K and HDR operation, flexible IP migration of existing operation systems, seamless migration from conventional CCU-based baseband systems, and a 3.5” LCD touch panel for easy operation.

The AK-UCU700 supports the new SMPTE ST 2110 IP-transmission standard as well as JPEG-XS to compress 4K video by a factor of 10 without degrading quality. It’s also the industry’s first studio camera system to support the Dante network audio standard as well as the NDI® (High Bandwidth NDI®) and SRT (Secure Reliable Transport) IP transmission standards.

Expanded KAIROS

In addition, Panasonic Connect Europe today also announced the Kairos Core 2000 (Main Frame) new series, AT-KC2000S1, one of the KAIROS IT/IP platforms for professional live-video production and distribution. The AT-KC2000S1 can support a flexible number of inputs and outputs to suit customers’ video production, alongside ST 2022-7 redundancy for broadcasting and event distribution using a network. This series is ideal for customers broadcasting or live streaming events and sports using a network, and supports unlimited and more stable video production.

The AT-KC2000S1 is a mainframe equipped with the same functions as the second-generation Kairos Core 2000 (AT-KC2000) announced in August of this year and can be used without halving the number of inputs and outputs when operating with redundancy.

AT-KC2000 AT-KC2000S1
During normal operation 4K 16 inputs x 10 outputs* 16 inputs x 10 outputs*
HD 64 inputs x 40 outputs* 64 inputs x 40 outputs*
When redundancy is secured 4K 8 inputs x 5 outputs* 16 inputs x 10 outputs*
HD 32 inputs x 20 outputs* 64 inputs x 40 outputs*

* All input/output are from “KAIROS version V1.6” or later. “KAIROS version 1.6” is scheduled to be available from the fourth quarter of FY2023.

“Demand for hybrid video production is growing and viewing habits are rapidly diversifying,” explained Andre Meterian, Director of Professional Video Systems for Panasonic Connect Europe. “It’s driving a need for the industry to support various resolutions and aspect ratios as well as simultaneous distribution to multiple media. These two latest IP-based systems help organisations transition to the new production reality and Panasonic Connect Europe is leading this charge.”

The AK-UCU700 series is scheduled for release in the first quarter of CY2024. The KAIROS AT-KC2000S1 will be available from December 2023.

AV, AV tech, News, Tech, Technology

Vivitek introduces high impact, high value, D2000 Series of compact, portable projectors

Vivitek – the visual display brand for all meeting spaces – has announced the D2000 Series of high impact, high value portable projectors. Ideally suited to the needs of small and medium-sized meeting rooms, the DW2650Z and the DH2661Z deliver a brilliant image, multiple I/O ports and a long-life light source. This makes them exceptional value for organisations seeking a durable and feature-packed projector that’s light to carry at only 4.8kg, simple to set up and easy for anyone to use.

Both the DW2650Z and the DH2661Z feature DLP® DarkChip3™ and BrilliantColor™ technologies for optimal black levels and vibrant colourful images, combined with manual zoom and focus for easy adjustment and positioning flexibility. The DW2650Z and the DH2661Z offer 4,200 and 4,000 lumens respectively, while the DW2650Z has native WXGA resolution with a maximum WUXGA resolution and the DH2661Z has native Full HD resolution. On the DH2661Z, the High Dynamic Range (HDR10) delivers enriched brightness and vibrancy for precise natural colours. On both projectors, high performance sound quality is assured thanks to a built-in 10W audio speaker, with multiple audio-in and audio-out.

With more customers investing in solutions that are sustainable and long lasting, both projectors offer low cost of ownership and maintenance, with the D2000 series featuring a lamp-less design that delivers up to 30,000 hours of usage. Aiding the projectors’ longevity is the airtight sealed engine and filter-less design for improved performance for added resistance against dust and fibres, and with less than 0.5W of power used in stand-by mode, they’re environmentally friendly, too. Quick on/off for immediate power on or shut down, ensures that the projectors are quick to respond to user’s demands.

Portable and lightweight at only 4.8kg (10.5lbs), the projectors are easy to move from one location to another, while their compact footprint makes them easy to place. Set up has been simplified through a full suite of display connectivity inputs and outputs, while on the DH2661Z any distorted or trapezoid image issues are easily corrected with HV keystone, and 4-corner adjustment. Both models have an intuitive multiple language OSD (On-screen Display) menu. Once in situ, comprehensive anti-theft security features – including a Kensington® security slot, and security bar – ensures the projectors remain in place at all times.

Commenting on the introduction of the D2000 Series, Holger Graeff, General Manager, Vivitek EMEA, said: “Value matters more now than ever to small to medium businesses, but we don’t believe it should compromise performance, features or sustainability credentials. That’s why we’re confident that the D2000 Series will be well received by end users who seek a powerful, fully featured portable projector that meets not just their needs, but their budget, too.”

Pricing and availability

The D2000 Series is available immediately. The DW2650Z is £699 excluding VAT, and the DH2661Z is £999 excluding VAT. The warranty for both is three years.

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About Vivitek

Vivitek, a brand of Delta, offers an extensive line of visual display and presentation products. Vivitek’s line of digital projection and display products incorporates the latest innovations and technologies to meet the market demands for education, business, home theaters, and large venues. For more information, please visit www.vivitekcorp.com

AV, AV tech, News, Tech Thought Leadership

Reimagining the stories that need to be told

Written by Florence Antony, Field Marketing Manager for Visual, Panasonic Connect Europe

Museums captivate when they bring history and culture to life in the imagination of their visitors. It’s these ‘magical’ moments that inspire us and the wonder of these experiences that make memories last. For instance, visitors to Barcelona were wowed by the vivid reimagining of Gaudi’s Casa Batllo over the last years and more recently the projection of renowned artists’ work, such as Van Gogh, in London’s Frameless exhibit.

As well as inspiring and attracting new audiences, enhancing the way history is retold also proves economically beneficial. In the UK, the arts and culture industry has grown £390million in a year and now contributes £10.8billion annually to the UK economy. According to research by the European Investment Fund, cultural tourism is estimated to account for up to 40% of European tourism. If you needed more convincing that this industry is always finding exciting ways to tap into this wealth of resource – there it is!

History for a new generation

The way we learn is also evolving, so the way we communicate must adapt too. Traditionally museums have used static words and images and been more focused on information than visuals. Through video and immersive experiences, a whole new generation can experience the past in a fresh way. An intricate blend of sound, interaction and visuals are all key to success, so that these experiences still impart the impactful and honest messages they were built to relay. The latest generation of digital natives has grown to expect and appreciate outstanding AV experiences, so getting that blend right is imperative.

The recent opening of the reimagined D-Day Museum in France is a great example of how these elements can blend together seamlessly. The Museum is based at the geographical epicentre of the D-Day landings on Gold Beach – one of five focal point beaches during the landings on June 6th, 1944. It depicts the invasion and subsequent construction of one of two artificial ports, named Mulberry harbours. ‘Mulberry B’ was constructed at Arromanches to transport men, equipment, and supplies inland during the summer of 1944, circumnavigating the need to immediately capture the heavily fortified deep-water ports of Cherbourg and Le Havre.

You can imagine the sheer scale of this logistical scene unfolding thanks to a variety of video projections, including an immersive video mural, video-mapping and virtual reality projections which bring these scenes to life.

So, what should museums consider in their AV technology if they want to attract the new generation and create lasting memories?

Turning back the clocks

Exhibitions must look as life-like as possible to transport the audience to a different time. Distraction should be minimal, and projections must be of the highest quality imagery and brightness. The D-Day Museum takes advantage of Panasonic’s laser projectors for this job due to the minimal maintenance required to make these factors a reality. The 3LCD PT-MZ and 1-Chip DLP PT-RZ series are designed to deliver 20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation with long-lasting brightness and colour uniformity, delivered via the state-of-the-art dust-resistant optical engine. Constant light output is guaranteed through adjustments to the projector brightness. Visitors are near projectors, so these can be set to ‘QUIET’ mode to ensure that viewers are not disturbed.

Many of our most valued museums weren’t built with immersive experiences in mind but this is one inevitable hurdle for installers to overcome. Installers need the most powerful/bright projectors in the most compact units possible to fit into awkward shaped buildings. Uniquely, visitors at the D-Day Museum can view a 10m x 3m panoramic image that depicts the events of the night of June 5 into June 6, 1944, as they cross an overpass. The projection distance is very short in this immersive space, leading integrator Auvisys to choose 1-Chip DLP PT-RZ790 laser projectors with ultra short-throw lenses.

And as visitors queue to witness the virtual reality projection video mapping on a large 28m² model they are transported to the harbour through projection over a transparent holographic canvas, superimposed on the backdrop of the sea through the windows. Christophe Vallée, the integrator in charge of audiovisual installation at the D-Day Landings Museum, states “for the model projection, we used a PT-RZ990 with an ET-DLE020 ultra-wide-angle lens, which only Panasonic offers.” This allows visitors to witness the artificial harbour being rebuilt in front of them to fully capture the moment in history. The use of semi-transparent fabric allows for an additional immersive layer of projection over a natural or historical background, to bring past events to life without the need for VR headsets nor disturbing the beauty of a site.

Through the looking glass

Another important consideration for directors rejuvenating their exhibitions is the Instagram effect. In today’s world, being able to share your experience on social media is important for many visitors and a vital viral marketing tool for venues. As a result, projectors that provide good quality photos, without the moiré effect are a key consideration.

Winston Churchill, central to the success of D-Day, famously said: “A nation that forgets its past has no future.” And it’s great to see modern AV technology helping to bring this important history to a whole new generation.

 

AV, AV tech, News

Vivitek delivers non-stop performance for galleries and museum applications with the compact DU4381Z-ST WUXGA laser projector

Vivitek – the visual display brand for all meeting spaces – has delivered a Short Throw laser projector packed with non-stop performance, value and durability with the introduction of the new DU4381Z-ST WUXGA. Ideally suited to the needs of galleries, museums, the education sector and commercial applications, the DU4381Z-ST offers 6,100 lumens of high brightness – an increase over its predecessor, the DU4371-ST – a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio, and up to 30,000 hours of laser light source life.

Large screen projection in tight spaces

Thanks to its advanced design, the DU4381Z-ST brings the benefit of large projection sizes to any venue, even with limited installation space. With its 0.5 short-throw lens, this projector only needs a distance of two metres from the wall to achieve an impressive image size of 185 inches. At a distance of 3.23 metres, it can still deliver a razor-sharp projection with a diagonal image of 300 inches.

Additionally, the DU4381Z-ST’s lightweight design of 10.5 kg and 360-degree positioning options enable limitless positioning possibilities, granting venues like museums and galleries unparalleled freedom in projector placement. It eliminates previous limitations that hindered creative installation and immersive visual experiences.

The DU4381Z-ST is equipped with DLP® DarkChip3 and BrilliantColor™ technologies to ensure a brilliant bright and colour-uniform picture with a brightness of up to 6,100 lumens thanks to the advanced laser phosphor light source. Additionally, it has a 3D synchronization port for compatibility with the active 3D synchronization protocol for IR (infrared).

To facilitate installations where the image signal needs to be transmitted over long distance by cable, the HDBaseT ™ interface and a standard CAT5e / 6-LAN interface have been integrated in the DU4381Z-ST.

Uninterrupted performance

With this projector being powered by a laser light source, it is perfectly suited for 24/7 operation. The advanced projector’s fan error auto protection will bring users peace of mind that the image will never fail. Even in the rare event of a fan failure during operation, the projector will still function stably without the need for immediate shut down. This ensures uninterrupted gallery presentations, museum immersive infotainment and even lessons and presentations to continue without interruptions.

Easy Monitoring and management

For network monitoring and management the short throw projector supports Crestron® RoomView ™ software. The Vivitek PJ-Control tool can also be utilized with the DU4381Z-ST to control viewing options, settings, scheduling, and display adjustment features. For added convenience, it also helps users to control multiple projectors remotely over the network, allowing for the creation of projector groups for simultaneous control.

Commenting on its introduction, Holger Graeff, General Manager, Vivitek EMEA, said: “Performance, brightness, value and durability are the hallmarks of Vivitek projectors, and the new DU4381Z-ST majors in all of them. With this new model, we’re offering new levels of performance and value to deliver a projector that’s class-leading and meets the needs of its target market.”

Pricing and availability
The DU4381Z-ST is available immediately from £2,670 excl VAT.

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About Vivitek

Vivitek, a brand of Delta, offers an extensive line of visual display and presentation products. Vivitek’s line of digital projection and display products incorporates the latest innovations and technologies to meet the market demands for education, business, home theaters, and large venues. For more information, please visit www.vivitekcorp.com

AV, AV tech, News, Security

i-PRO Unveils Smaller, Faster, and Higher-Resolution PTZ Cameras

Featuring high-speed pan, tilt and zoom at up to 4K resolution with built-in AI features and top-level cybersecurity

i-PRO Co. Ltd., a global leader in professional security solutions for surveillance and public safety, today announced 16 new, high-speed pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) cameras with up to 4K resolution and powerful IR illumination. Called Rapid PTZ, the company is launching the new models as part of its X and S Series lineup. The new PTZ cameras are the smallest in their category and feature comprehensive edge AI capabilities and a broad range of resolution options.

Thanks to their small form factor, the new cameras can be discreetly deployed. With pan and tilt speeds up to 700°/s, operators are assured quick and precise surveillance coverage as they move the camera through multiple preset positions in the blink of an eye. Powerful IR LED capabilities enable the cameras to monitor in complete darkness up to 250 meters (820.2ft) while advanced analytics and AI-based auto-tracking make sure that persons and vehicles of interest stay locked on target and in focus.

Featuring a discreet design that allows for direct installation on low ceilings or eaves on rooftops, the new Rapid PTZ models includes i-PRO’s new fail-safe waterproof ethernet connector along with multiple mounting options. For the ultimate protection from corrosive environments such as offshore applications, all X Series Rapid PTZ models are salt- and ISO 14993 rated to withstand the harshest conditions.

“These new Rapid PTZ cameras are truly industry leading designs. The small and discreet form factor is perfect for city surveillance. Higher resolutions and edge-based AI features such as our Privacy Guard, simplifies GDPR compliance,” said Gerard Figols, President, i-PRO EMEA. “Adding best-in-class WDR, powerful IR, and a range of flexible mounting options demonstrates i-PRO’s continuing market leadership.”

 

Benefits of higher resolution

The 4K and 6MP Rapid PTZ models deliver an industry leading wide dynamic range (WDR) of 132 dB for clear images in extremely variable lighting conditions. Having higher resolution delivers additional digital zoom advantages over and above the optical zoom built into the cameras. As an example, the 30x optical zoom on the 4K model ensures that images remain sharp, but when adding a 4K pixel density, the additional digital zoom extends the effective zoom range much further without pixelization for precise visibility of vehicles and persons. The additional pixels delivered by higher resolution models also result in enhanced AI performance and accuracy for objects at a distance.

 

Pre-installed AI-based analytics

All Rapid PTZ models include AI-based edge processing to detect motion for people, including direction of travel, line-crossing, and loitering. The cameras use AI object detection to precisely track objects as they move within the camera’s field of view. AI sound classification is also included when an external microphone is added. Additional AI apps can be installed as required for vehicle detection, occupancy detection, Privacy Guard masking, and scene change detection. Up to three AI apps in total are supported on the 4K/6MP models and up to two AI apps are supported on the 2MP models. Privacy Guard is a unique i-PRO feature that masks/blurs the bodies or faces of individuals with edge-based processing in the camera.

 

Durability

Many PTZ cameras utilize a belt drive system which deteriorates with use. Belts stretch over time leading to less precision when panning to the desired area in the scene. i-PRO PTZ cameras rely on gears to deliver consistent, repeatable panning accuracy and require no routine maintenance avoiding system downtime.

 

Cybersecure

i-PRO’s Rapid PTZ cameras are FIPS 140-2 level 3 certified thanks to their use of an EdgeLock secure element which supports identity-based authentication, strong encryption and an extra layer of security that protects critical security parameters on the device. ​This makes the i-PRO Rapid PTZ models one of the only FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified PTZs in the market.

 

For more information, visit:
https://i-pro.com/products_and_solutions/en/surveillance/products/new-products/new-rapid-ptz-camera

AV, AV tech, News

Panasonic Extends It’s Line-Up with an ST2110 Upgrade for the Entry-Level AK-HC3900 Studio Camera

One of the only manufacturers with a line-up from entry-level to high-end studio cameras, as well as the UE160 PTZ camera and KAIROS live video platform.

Panasonic Connect Europe today announced an ST2110 upgrade for its entry-level Panasonic AK-HC3900 studio camera in Q3 of the calendar year using a paid-for AK-SFC391 activation code. The upgrade positions Panasonic as one of the only manufacturers with a complete IP-ready line-up from entry-level to high-end studio cameras, as well as its latest UE160 PTZ camera and the KAIROS IT/IP live video platform.

The software update for the AK-HC3900 studio camera helps to improve quality and efficiency at production sites. It reduces costs by eliminating the need for Camera Control Units (CCU) and enables broadcast-grade uncompressed transmission with ST2110.

With this update, the Panasonic AK-HC3900 HD studio camera can be connected to SMPTE ST2110-compliant broadcast equipment or network switch. This allows the AK-HC3900 to transmit broadcast-grade uncompressed HD video directly from the camera head over IP with very low latency, without the need for a CCU. It also supports IP return video (HD), reference signal (PTP), trunk signal output (HD), prompter input, and IP intercom audio input/output with the ST2110.

Furthermore, the AK-PLV100, which already supports uncompressed ST2110, will also receive a future firmware upgrade. This will enable SMPTE ST2110 output, including JPEG-XS compression as standard directly from the camera head, helping to facilitate live production operation and minimise the number of external devices.

The upgrade also allows the camera to connect directly1 to Panasonic KAIROS via IP enabling space-saving, highly efficient and flexible IP live production and distribution with a large number of cameras. When connected to the ST2110, a single KAIROS Core 100 mainframe can simultaneously connect up to 48 inputs and 32 outputs2, using a small mainframe 1U rack size. The CCU-less connection of the AK-HC3900 HD studio camera saves further space and reduces cabling for highly efficient operation, as well as significantly3 reducing power consumption compared to conventional systems.

 

Andre Meterian, Director of Professional Video Systems for Panasonic Connect Europe, said: “This latest upgrade capability further underlines Panasonic’s commitment to assist the industry in accelerating the transition to IP. Our complete range of IP-ready equipment helps to further improve efficiencies, flexibility and quality across broadcasting, live productions and streaming.”

AV, AV tech, Events, News

AT Communications Sets Sights On Touring With The First 4K Panasonic UE160 PTZ Cameras In The UK

Groundbreaking Panasonic PTZ delivers stunning images in challenging lighting conditions and dramatically reduces moiré effect when shooting against LED walls.

 One of UK’s leading AV hire companies, AT Communications (ATC), is the first in the UK to stock Panasonic’s latest generation 4K AW-UE160 PTZ cameras with ambitions to expand its position in the music festival and touring sector. As soon as the company saw a demonstration they recognised immediately that this was the rental and staging camera that would help them achieve their ambitions.

“The moment we saw the UE160 in action, we knew it was a game changer,” said James Speer, Rental Manager at ATC. “What really caught our eye was the moiré filter, the quality of picture and the interfaces. We were looking at the next generation PTZ camera.”

ATC is a specialist in the corporate and events markets and has its sights sets on expanding further into the touring and festival space from its Midlands and London bases. The company can provide a full service from design to show with the largest revenues coming from its LED wall hire.

“We wanted new PTZ cameras that would work effectively with the LED walls and when Panasonic offered us a demonstration, we were keen to see what the latest generation could offer,” explained James. “This latest Panasonic UE160 PTZ camera is on another level. We were proud to have been the first in the UK to have them and they went straight out on tour. It’s still early days but the client reviews are that this is the next chapter in PTZ cameras.”

The UE160 4K PTZ camera features a newly developed 4K 1” MOS sensor that offers the highest sensitivity of Panasonic’s entire PTZ line-up. Production teams shooting at venues can easily capture clear images even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Meanwhile, the UE160’s new optical low pass filter reduces the effect of moiré for clearer picture quality when shooting against an LED wall, which is especially important for touring, festival and events. Its high-speed frame rate will help broadcasters capture slow motion shots in HD, while seamless integration with the robotic camera system brings live broadcast-style movements to the PTZ, resulting in a dynamic and highly engaging video production.

Along with the outstanding high sensitivity of F14 / 2,000 LX and its High-Bandwidth NDI capability, the UE160 is also the first ever compact PTZ camera to support SMPTE ST2110, an IP transmission standard for the broadcasting industry, and wireless transmission with a 5G mobile router (via USB tethering). It supports return input and a rear tally lamp that can also be lit in yellow, which are essential for combined operation with system cameras. In addition, it is equipped with a cropping zoom function that can output multiple angle video with a single camera and 2x high-speed output (HD) from SDI/HDMI.

For the full customer story visit: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com/gb/en/case-studies/AT-communications-first-4k-ue160-ptz-cameras-uk