Details on the latest Sony PMW-F5/F55 Firmware Update Version 5.0

Sony recently released the latest firmware update version 5.0 for the PMW F5/F55 cameras further unlocking the potential of these amazing cameras. The new firmware update opens the path to internal 4K recording on the F5 (sold separately), the much awaited and desirable, Apple ProRes and Avid DnxHD recording (requires a board install), as well as some exciting accessories for broadcast work.

Here are the full details by Sony:

Continuing our firmware development timeline, we are excited to announce Version 5.0 firmware for the F5, and F55. As has been the case with each firmware release, v5 implements powerful new features at no cost to the end user.

In addition to new functionality, version 5.0 adds support for the optional new hardware accessories being introduced, including the Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHD encoder board, the new ENG, Documentary Shoulder mount dock, and the optional 4K upgrade for the F5.- All of which are detailed below.

PMW-F55/F5 Firmware Version 5.0 Release notes

This document outlines the details for firmware version 5.0 for the F5, and F55. The latest firmware version of related products is below.

Version 5.0 can be updated from v2.0 firmware onwards. When needing to update from v1.22 and earlier, you must update to v2.0 first.

As with all firmware updates you cannot revert to earlier versions, as operational instability will likely occur.

NOTE: When using with the AXS-R5 RAW recorder, the new firmware v5.0 for PMW-F55/F5 is only compatible with AXS-R5 running firmware v4.1. If your AXS-R5 has an older firmware version installed please update to the current firmware (R5) v4.1 at the same time as you update your F5/F55 camera to v5.0.

Major features supported in firmware version 5.0:

• Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHD® with the optional CBK-55PD

• Interval Recording

• Support for the optional ENG and Documentary shoulder mount dock CBK-55BK

• 4K upgrade for the F5 via the optional (for purchase) CBKW-55FX

• Noise suppression in Cine EI mode

Details:

Supporting additional codecs, Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHD® with CBK-55PD

PMW-F55/F5 can record and playback in ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes 422 on 23.98p, 24p, 25p, 29.97p, 50i, 59.94i and DNxHD220x, and DNxHD145 on 23.98p, 25p, 29.97p, 50i, 59.94i by installing the optional CBK-55PD (sold separately).

NOTE: PMW-F55/F5 with CBK-55PD installed is not supported with the CA-4000 and BPU-4000, 4K Live Productions system.

2. Supporting the optional ENG and Documentary shoulder mount dock CBK-55BK

The PMW-F55/F5 is compatible with the optional CBK-55BK (sold separately). CBK-55BK is a specialized accessory docking unit with shoulder Pad and Interface for the PMW-F55/F5. This accessory can be attached easily and allows users to access key functions such as Shutter, Gain, White Balance, Rec Button and Assignable Buttons. In addition the CBK-55BK supports Wireless slot-in audio receiver and Audio control like standard Broadcast shoulder camcorders.

3. Supporting the optional 4K Upgrade for PMW-F5 with CBKW-55FX

By installing the dedicated option CBKZ-55FX (sold separately), recording and playback of XAVC 4K and XAVC QFHD is available for the PMW-F5. In addition, simultaneous recording function with MPEG Proxy is available.

4. Interval Rec function with XAVC and RAW

Interval Rec function allows you to record frames specified at regular intervals. Interval Rec function is available with XAVC format and RAW recording with the AXS-R5.

5. HDCAM SR File, (SStP) SR-SQ 422 in 59.94i (PMW-F55 only)

PMW-F55 supports SStP SR-SQ 422 in 59.94i. Also simultaneous recording function with MPEG Proxy is available.

6. Memory A/B white balance in Custom mode

White balance Memory is expanded to Memory A and Memory B in Custom mode. The color temperature can be set independently.

7. Noise suppression is available in Cine EI mode

“Noise Suppression” setting in the Camera menu is available even in Cine EI mode. The default setting is OFF.

8. Added selectable functions for Assignable Button

“Color Bars,” “VF Focus Magnifier,” and “White Memory” (switching between Memory A/B) are added to “Assignable Button”

9. Direct Changing FPS (STEP) using Menu dial

During S&Q Motion, FPS can be changed by pushing and rotating the Menu dial. You can set 6 steps of Frame Rate in “Menu Dial Assign” in “Assignable Button” menu.

Bug fixes

When using assignable button of marker, incorrect message was displayed. This has been fixed.

After APR in HFR mode, in some cases Frame Rate was changed to 60FPS automatically. This has been fixed.

In some cases false color function with DVF-EL100 and DVF-L700 worked in S-Log3 incorrectly. This has been fixed. False color function is available only when S-Log2 is selected.

While simultaneous recording with RAW and MPEG50 in 50 and 59.94, recording start frame of MPEG50 was delayed. This has been fixed.

Double Speed VF setting was automatically turned off when HFR mode turns off. This has been fixed. Double Speed VF setting remains when changing HFR mode on/off.

Please not the following:

1. iOS setting for Wi-Fi Remote

While using Wi-Fi Remote with iOS devices and Safari, please turn off Private browse function.

2. All file Support

All files which are created with Firmware v5.0 are not compatible with an earlier firmware version.

3. Auto Reboot after ABB and APR on ProRes and DNxHD®

When ABB or APR is executed in ProRes and DNxHD mode, PMW-F55/F5 automatically reboots after displaying “Auto Black Balance OK” or “RPN Auto Detection OK ” and “Rebooting…..”. This sequence is normal. ABB or APR is correctly executed.

4. Assignable buttons setting does not remain

When you update to v5.0 from an earlier version of firmware, or load ALL File generated in an earlier version of firmware, the Assignable buttons setting does not remain. Please set each assignable buttons manually.

Attachments:

 PMW-F55_F5_VersionUp_Guide.zip ‏428 KB

 F55_F5_V5.0_operation_Manual_GB.pdf ‏3558 KB

 F5 F55 Accessory Charts.zip ‏1581 KB