PANASONIC ANNOUNCES 3D-READY AG-HPD24 P2 PORTABLE DECK WITH NATIVE 24P RECORDING

* New Workflow Tool Features Super-Fast USB 3.0 Interface and HDMI Output *


SECAUCUS, NJ (February 22, 2011) -- Panasonic Solutions Company has introduced the solid-state AG-HPD24 P2 deck with powerful features including 3D synchronized record/playback*1; native 24P recording with variable frame rates; a super-fast USB 3.0 interface; and 24-bit, four-channel audio recording in AVC-Intra 100/50.

Featuring AVC-Intra 100/50 record/playback, the HPD24 makes 10-bit, 4:2:2 master-quality video affordable and portable. This ultra-reliable, dedicated deck allows users to playback and review P2 cards on its 8.9 cm (3.5 inches), 16:9 LCD screen; manage clip files and metadata; record full resolution, 10-bit quality content from a wide range of Panasonic and non-Panasonic cameras via its HD-SDI input; and backup data onto hard disk drives.

With two P2 card slots and battery operation, the HPD24’s rugged, half-rack design holds up to the demands of field production, yet it is small and light at 2 kg (4.4 pounds) for easy transport.

Supporting the burgeoning 3D production industry, two HPD24 units can be synchronized for master-quality, full resolution isolated left/right channel 3D recording, either from cameras mounted on a 3D rig (such as Panasonic’s AK-HC1800 multipurpose cameras) or the company’s AG-3DA1 integrated dual-lens 3D camera recorder. Two HPD24s can likewise be synchronized for full HD-SDI 3D or 3D HDMI playback.

The versatile HPD24 adds native 24p 1080/720 recording, 1080/24PsF input/output, 24p pull-down removal as well as real-time record/playback of variable frame rates (in 1080/24p over 60i, 720/24p over 60p) for work with special effects like over- and under-cranking. The HPD24 supports a wider range of high definition and standard definition recording formats including 1080 60i/50i/25p/24p, 720 60p/50p/24p and 480/60i, 576/50i in DVCPRO50, DVCPRO and DV. The unit plays back HD/SD content automatically (no need to change settings) and is internationally operable in 50Hz or 60Hz.

The HPD24’s “SuperSpeed” USB 3.0 host interface permits significantly super-fast transfer rates. This allows users to easily transfer content to low-cost, fast hard disk drives or solid-state drives for a fast and safe deliverable to clients. When attached to a computer, the USB device*2 mode allows the HPD24 to become a two-card P2 drive. In addition, users can connect a hard drive to the HPD24, allowing the preview of non-real-time P2 content. This functionality allows for the confirmation of content copied to a drive, and for the reviewing of previous-shot content on a drive.

Its HDMI output enables the transmission of uncompressed digital data to an array of consumer playback devices (video projectors, digital televisions). The deck also offers an RS-422 control, thereby allowing it to be controlled as a video source by nonlinear editing systems and color correction systems. The HPD24 also includes audio I/Os, headphone jack, timecode in/out and a reference synch input.

When using two 64GB P2 cards in the HPD24’s two card slots, the unit can record for approx. 128 minutes in AVC-Intra 100 or DVCPRO HD, approx. 256 minutes in AVC-Intra 50 or DVCPRO50, or approx. 512 minutes in DVCPRO / DV.

The AG-HPD24 P2 Portable will be available this summer. The target suggested list price is less than $6,000.

About P2 HD
P2 HD all solid-state products offer high definition recording without the mechanical wear and environmental limitations of tape, hard disk, and optical disc based systems. P2 HD ensures the highest reliability, especially in challenging conditions of extreme temperature range, shock, and vibration. P2 HD products provide a significant reduction in maintenance costs, longer useful product life, and immediate access to recorded video (no need to digitize, ingest or create proxy video files) and metadata. P2 HD provides the reliability of solid-state production; the immediate connectivity to existing IT infrastructures; the speed, ease of use and portability of P2 cards; and interoperability with leading NLE systems.

About Panasonic Solutions Company
Panasonic Solutions Company empowers people whose jobs depend on reliable technology. The company delivers collaboration, information-sharing and decision-support solutions for customers in government, healthcare, education and a wide variety of commercial enterprises. Products and services within the company’s portfolio include Panasonic Toughbook® mobile computing solutions, projectors, professional displays (including both plasma and LCD), and HD and 3D video acquisition and production solutions. As a result of its commitment to R&D, manufacturing and quality control, Panasonic is known for the reliability and longevity of its products. Panasonic Solutions Company is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, which is the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC).

All brand and company/product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies. All specifications are subject to change without notice.  For more information on Panasonic professional video products, please visit www.panasonic.com/broadcast.

*1 requires second AJ-HPD24
*2 USB device is USB2.0