Sony unveiled last week a new addition to its market leading XDCAM HD422 line-up – the PMW-200, the only handheld camcorder in its class equipped with three 1/2 -inch Exmor CMOS sensors and full HD 4:2:2 50Mbps recording. The 1/2 -inch sensors mean the camcorder performs exceptionally well even in challenging lighting conditions.

Designed using Sony’s advanced sensor technology and decades of experience, the PMW-200 answers the industry’s desire for a 4:2:2 50Mbps camcorder that utilises three 1/2 -inch type sensors. In addition, a variety of recording formats such as 50Mbps/35Mbps MXF, 35Mbps/25Mbps MP4 and DVCAM are available for a wide range of applications and workflows. The exceptional feature set of the PMW-200, including its 1/2 -inch sensors and 50Mbps recording capability, make this camcorder fully compliant with the latest EBU recommendations for long form broadcast production.

The PMW-200 builds on the hugely successful PMW-EX1R within Sony’s XDCAM family, with enhancements like MPEG HD422 recording for superior picture performance, while retaining the same ease of use and accessories as the PMW-EX1R.

The PMW-200 also offers a powerful Slow & Quick motion function which allows capture at 1 fps to 60 fps in 720p mode, and from 1 fps to 30 fps in 1080p mode, giving users real creative flexibility. An immediate playback function enables operators to view their shots rapidly and easily, without the use of external converters or processing on non-linear editing systems.

The PMW-200 is armed with a 14x zoom lens equipped with 3 independent rings for zoom, focus and iris adjustment, plus greater precision through indications of ring positions on the LCD screen. This provides users with a high level of operational comfort and control. Focusing on subjects and reviewing recorded footage is made easy with the full-colour 3.5-inch WVGA (852×480) LCD panel. The PMW-200 also comes with an invaluable 15 second cache recording feature, a function unique among handheld camcorders. It can use its internal memory to capture images, even before the recording button is pressed (maximum of 15 seconds), allowing users to record important moments that would have otherwise been missed.

Genlock and timecode interfaces on the PMW-200 make it a breeze for use in multi-camera operations and entry-level HD studio applications. The camcorder also affords users greater flexibility over recording media, operating with Sony’s professional SxS technology as well as other media such as SD, Memory Stick and XQD cards (adaptor required). A Wi-Fi remote control (adaptor required) for the PMW-200 enhances flexibility for studio or on-location use.

The PMW-200 is the ideal solution for a wide range of applications from broadcast programme making to corporate video and event production.

The PMW-200 camcorder is scheduled to be available from mid-September onwards. The Wi-Fi remote control function for the PMW-200 is scheduled to be available by December 2012 with a free firmware upgrade.