New additions include 3D-Link feature, RGB 4:4:4 and S-LOG output option

At NAB 2011, Sony is announcing new features for its PMW-F3 professional handheld digital production camera with a Super 35mm imager: a 3D-Link capability, options for RGB 4:4:4 and S-LOG output and a wide angle, high power zoom lens.

The 3D-Link option (CBK-3DL01) will be available later this year via a firmware upgrade and 10-pin cable connection. This link is designed to provide synchronous remote command between two F3s using only one remote controller, with Genlock, time code and camera control. Recording can be started and stopped by remote control. The PMW-F3 will be able to be used in any 3D rig that can support the camera’s size.

RGB4:4:4 and S-LOG output capabilities are available through the CBK-RGB01, which also enables Dual-Link/3G-SDI switchable functionality. It comes pre-loaded with 4 LUTs and 5 user LUTs for monitoring in S-LOG mode, and also has a planning meta function.

Finally, two new lenses will be available for the PMW-F3: the SCL-P11X15 PL mount wide angle 1.5x zoom with a focal length range of 11-16mm and a speed of T3.0; and the SCL-Z18X140 FZ mount high power 14.0x zoom, with a focal length range of 18-252mm and a speed of T3.8.

The PMW-F3 camcorder, which is now available, is designed for a range of digital production applications – from commercial, documentary, television and feature film production to markets such as education, corporate and government and more.

The PMW-F3 can be combined with a low-cost PL lens kit, which includes 35/50/85mm T2.0 fixed focal length lenses, broadening the camcorder’s range of potential applications and giving users more flexibility in lens selection. For example, it is ideal for use as a second unit 35mm camera to complement Sony’s F35 and SRW-9000PL, which are also PL mount, S-35mm cameras.

The new F3 camcorder is based on Sony’s XDCAM EX workflow and uses Sony’s SxS ExpressCard-based recording media format. Its Super 35mm CMOS imager delivers shallow depth of field, with high sensitivity and low noise levels (ISO 800, T11; and S/N ratio of 63dB in 1920×1080/59.94i mode), as well as wide dynamic range.

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