PANASONIC ANNOUNCES POWERFUL UPGRADE FOR AW-HE40 PTZ CAMERAS ADDING HD IP-STREAMING, IN-CAMERA RECORDING, AND USB VIDEO

NEWARK, NJ (April 2, 2015) – Panasonic has announced a powerful optional upgrade for its AW-HE40 integrated full HD PTZ cameras. The AW-SFU01 upgrade adds production-quality HD MPEG-4 streaming, in-camera HD recording on a microSD card, and USB video/audio capabilities to the cameras’ already impressive range of features.

The AW-SFU01 feature upgrade will be available for purchase in July 2015 at a suggested list price of $300.00. A special promotional offer will provide this function upgrade in July at no charge for cameras purchased between March 24th and May 31st, 2015.

This new major feature upgrade will allow direct-from-camera, production-quality audio/video streaming (RTP/RTSP/RTCP) up to 1080/60p 24Mbps at an unprecedented price point. The upgraded camera's IP streaming–in combination with the HE40's standard IP-control, built-in MIC/LINE input and PoE+ (power over LAN cable) capabilities–enables a revolutionary "single-cable" remote production application. Additionally, the upgrade makes it possible for the HE40 to function as a USB Super-Webcam for videoconferencing and collaboration–with a 30X zoom lens, preset functions, as well as simultaneous IP and USB streaming* and control.

The upgrade also enables production-quality in-camera HD MPEG-4 video and audio recording to a microSD card at up to 28mbps, which can be utilized for Web-controlled back-up and archiving, replayed and streamed, or sent as a file via FTP. Because it is USB video-enabled, the HE40 also offers a premium choice for professional-level videoconferencing via widely available USB-class applications.

The HE40's audio functions are also extended by the upgrade: Auto Level Control adjusts audio input level automatically, and an Equalizer Setting can select three types of audio input control, [ON/OFF], [LOW CUT] and [Speech]. Embedded audio may also be used in conjunction with HD streaming and recording functions.

An upgraded HE40's breadth of powerful functions facilitates the development of innovative applications in broadcasting, staging, sports, government, houses-of-worship, and education.

The HE40 is currently available in two versions, the AW-HE40H with HDMI output, and the AW-HE40S with HD-SDI output. Both versions are available in either white or black. The cameras are designed to produce great results in a variety of applications that require high-quality video and precise control–such as remote production, conference video, event capture, staging, distance learning, and HOW. Thanks to a precision 30X optical zoom lens, 1000 TV lines of horizontal resolution, smooth PTZ functions, and exceptional image quality, HE40 cameras are also ideal for demanding recording, streaming, and IMAG use. With IP-Preview transmission and control, and support for PoE+, the HE40 also offers the flexibility needed for cost-effective installation and easy management.

The HE40 also features stereo MIC/LINE-level switchable audio input for embedding, an innovative 1.4X digital extender, minimum illumination of .35 lx, and 16-axis color matrix control for precise camera "painting" and matching.

The HE40 cameras incorporate a version of the versatile IP/Serial/Web control system and IP-Live Preview pioneered in Panasonic's AW-HE60 series cameras. IP, RS-422, RS-232C in/out interfaces are also included, and a built-in Web-server enables both browser control and IP-live preview and setup from PCs, Macs and mobile devices including iPhone, iPad, and Android tablets and phones. RS-422 Serial or IP control is available using Panasonic's AW-RP50N, AW-RP120G controllers, AK-HRP200G paintbox and the AW-HEA10 system, as well as appropriately programmed systems from Crestron, AMX, Winnov, and other manufacturers.