Sony have announced an addition to the HXC Series with a new entry level camera system - HXC-FB80 - to replace that already very successful HXC-FB75 fibre studio camera. HXC-FB80 is a HD portable studio camera with 4K upscale and HD HDR capabilities. The HXC-FB80 is a cost-effective high-performance HD portable camera with three Sony 2/3-inch ExmorTM CMOS sensors and a 3G-SDI platform capable of 1080/50p and 59.94p signal processing while achieving low power consumption. Together the HXC-FB80 Camera and HXCU-FB80 CCU bring 3G-SDI-based 1080/59.94 Capabilities to a wider audience (for studio and live applications). Also announced is the HXCU-FB80 4K/HD Camera Control Unit. In combination with the HXC-FB80, it offers user-beneficial expandability including 4K upscale and HD HDR support (HLG, Hybrid Log-Gamma) for a future-proof solution.* The optional PC-based HZC-RCP5 Remote Control Panel is available for a simpler application system. * Requires firmware upgrade available in 2018. [caption id="attachment_4851" align="aligncenter" width="600"]HXC-FB80 4K and HDR ready HXC-FB80 portable camera[/caption] The new HXC-FB80 expands Sony's HXC product line-up and shares many common features with the current HXC-FB75. The new camera continues to provide signal-to-noise ratio at -60dB with high sensitivity of F13 at 50Hz or F12 at 59.94Hz – ideal for low-light shooting and a variety of camera painting and processing capabilities. This new camera system is based on customer input and the added support for up-scaled 4K and HD-HDR production expands the system to a wider range of applications. [caption id="attachment_4849" align="aligncenter" width="600"]HXC-FB80 HXCU-FB80 camera control unit (CCU)[/caption] Key Features:
Three Sony 2/3-Inch Exmor CMOS Sensors
Incorporating three 2/3-inch Exmor CMOS sensors, the HXC-FB80 offers stunning full-HD picture quality and sensitivity of F13 in 50 Hz and F12 in 59.94 Hz at 1080 mode with a signal-to-noise ratio of -60 dB. These features enhance shooting in a low light environment.
3G-SDI Platform Capable of 1080/50p and 59.94p
The camera head can comfor tably output 3G-SDI signals including 1080/50p and 59.94p. The new processor can also support 1080/23.98 PsF on top of 25 PsF and 29.97 PsF.
Long Cable Extension and Choice of Fiber Interface
Using a hybrid cable with a power supply, the distance between the camera head and CCU can be extended up to 600 m. In case of the combination with HXC-P70, it can extend up to 1,000 m. In addition to the Neutrik connector interface, a LEMO connector interface is also available for the camera head and CCU.
HD Video Trunk and HD Prompter
In addition to the camera captured 1080 50i/59.94i video signal, another video  signal can be passed through the same fiber connection line to the CCU side because of the 3G-SDI platform. Further to the traditional analog composite prompter support, the HD-SDI signal can be supplied from the CCU side.
ND Filter by Servo Motor
Along with an electrical CC filter, the ND filter can be remotely controlled either by external RCP/RM or via the CCU because of the newly adopted filter servo motor in the camera head. No pricing information has been announced yet but it is expected to be the same price as the HXC-FB75. Shipping is anticipated to start January 2018.