What is the XDCAM system?
Sony created the XDCAM brand to describe tapeless video production, which delivers new speed convenience - what Sony calls "workflow innovation".
What is "workflow innovation"?
Compared to typical tape-based production, XDCAM tapeless production delivers a host of power benefits:
What is Proxy AV?
When XDCAM Optical products record a clip, they simultaneously generate a second, "lightweight" lower resolution data file of the same video, audio and timecode. Compared to the full resolution data file, proxy files transfer at roughly ten times the speed and occupy just 1/10 the disc space. This enable far faster, more convenient data operations for offline browsing and editing.
What recording media does the XDCAM system use?
In XDCAM tapeless production, the actual recording medium varies.
What file types does the XDCAM system use?
A key advantage of the XDCAM system is that audio/video assets are recorded as data files. XDCAM products that write to Professional Disc media use the Material eXchange Format (MXF) for all full-resolution and Proxy AV content. XDCAM products that write to SxS flash memory media use the MP4 file format.
What is dual-layer media?
Just as dual-layer DVDs expand capacity and recording time, Sony's PFD-50DLA/2 dual-layer Professional Disc media extends the XDCAM system. Capacity increases from 23.3 GB to 50 GB. Recording time increases from 120 minutes to 250 minutes at 18 Mbps. This longer load is perfect for documentaries, nature shows and other projects with high shooting ratios. The increased capacity of dual-layer media also boosts the efficiency of XDCAM archives.
Which models support dual-layer media?
The PDW-700, F335 and F355 XDCAM HD camcorders, the PDW-HD1500 and F75 decks, and the PDW-U1 drive all support both single-layer and dual-layer media. The camcorders and decks also incorporate added operational features.
Can older XDCAM HD products be upgraded to support dual-layer media?
No. Dual layer disc technology cannot be supported by the PDW-F350 or PDW-F330 camcorders, the PDW-F70 or PDW-F30 decks. However, the PDW-700, HD1500, F335, F355, F75 and PDW-U1 all support single-layer discs as well as dual-layer discs. Any single-layer material you record today will remain compatible with the new generation of dual-layer recorders.
What compression system does the XDCAM system use?
The XDCAM HD, XDCAM HD422 and XDCAM EX systems use the international standard MPEG-2 system with a long Group of Pictures (GOP). All XDCAM SD products use DVCAM™ compression and some also us MPEG-2 compression.
Why did Sony choose MPEG-2 Long GOP?
Because the system combines interframe and intraframe compression technology, it enables one to achieve a higher picture quality at lower bitrates than systems that use intraframe compression alone.
I've heard about other compression codecs. Why didn't Sony use one of them?
Before committing to MPEG-2, Sony studied a full range of available compression codecs, including DV, AVC and wavelet technologies in addition to the MPEG-2 family. Sony evaluated the codecs based on a full range of criteria.
I'ver heard that MPEG 2 is actually a family of many compression "profiles" and "levels". Which specific MPEG 2 profiles and levels does Sony use?
MPEG 2 covers a wide range of applications from the consumer world to the professional. Sony carefully selected MPEG profiles and levels according to each application.
What are the bitrates of XDCAM recording?
The system offers a wide range of bitrates, each optimized for specific applications.
Does 25 Mbps XDCAM HD recording use the same compression as HDV 1080i recording?
Yes. While XDCAM HD recording at 18 and 35 Mbps uses variable bitrate technology, the 25 Mbps alternative uses a fixed bitrate for compatibility with HDV 1080i editors and recorders. The basic difference is that HDV editors use Transport Stream (TS) and XDCAM HD uses Elementary Stream (ES). When the PDW-HD1500 and F75 recorders are fitted with the optional MPEG Transport Stream (TS) card, these decks can be connected directly to HDV 1080i recorders, camcorders and compatible NLEs, via the i.LINK HDV interface.*
What is the recording time?
Extended recording time is a big advantage of the XDCAM HD system bitrates. Recording time varies according to your choice of bitrate and recording media. Maximum recording time is over 248 minutes (18 Mbps, 4-channel Audio, dual-layer media). This represents the longest recording time of any HD camcorder currently available.
| Bitrate | PFD-23A single-layer disc | PFD-50DLA dual-layer disc |
| SD 25 Mbps | 85 min | 185 min |
| SD 30 Mbps | 68 min | 150 min |
| SD 40 Mbps | 55 min | 120 min |
| SD 50 Mbps | 45 min | 100 min |
| HD 18 Mbps | 122 min | 248 min |
| HD 25 Mbps | 90 min | 200 min |
| HD 35 Mbps | 68 min | 150 min |
| HD422 50 Mbps | 43 min | 95 min |
| (4-channel Audio) |
Does Sony plan to discontinue the XDCAM SD line in the near future?
No. Standard definition XDCAM products answer an established need for top-quality SD production at up to 50 Mbps. Sony sees SD video production still having a relatively long life. With a distinct feature set, XDCAM SD products complement and interoperate with the XDCAM HD product line. XDCAM HD products can play back DVCAM 25 Mbps material recorded on XDCAM SD products. In addition, the PDW-700 camcorder, PDW-HD1500 deck, and PDW-U1 drive also support MPEG IMX and DVCAM material recorded on XDCAM SD products.
Why is the CineAlta™ trademark (brand) on XDCAM HD products?
Sony uses the CineAlta name to identify a high level of cinema production. With gorgeous performance at true 24 frames progressive, the XDCAM HD system fully meets that description.
What is the resolution of the PDW-F335, F355 and PDW-700 image sensors?
These camcorders incorporate three CCD image sensors, each with resolution of 1440 x 1080 - more than 1.5 million pixels. The PDW-700 uses three Power HAD FX image sensors each with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 - more than 2.2 million pixels
Do the PDW-F335, F355 and PDW-700 attempt to "up-res" the image for 1080-line recording?
Absolutely not. Some camcorders attempt to "get by" using image sensors with just one third the pixels required for 1080-line recording. The camcorders then attempt to create the other 67% of pixels through internal processes that can never deliver full resolution. The PDW-F335, F355 and PDW-700 maintain a strict one-to-one relationship between CCD pixels and recorded pixels. The PDW-F335 and F355's CCD offer a raster of 1440 x 1080 and the PDW-700's Power HAD FX CCD offers a raster of 1920 x 1080, exactly the same resolution that is recorded to disc.
How do I edit XDCAM HD assets?
You have plenty of options. First, over 90 companies are committed to supporting XDCAM production. So depending on your system, you can choose from various workflows. Second, when equipped with the optional MPEG TS card, the PDW-F75 and PDW-HD1500 work with the full range of NLEs that are compatible with HDV 1080i. And third, you can use the HD-SDI output of the PDW-F75 and HD1500 and edit as with a traditional VTR.
Can I use my current HDV editing software to edit XDCAM HD 25 Mbps material?
Absolutely. Part of the beauty of the XDCAM HD system is its compatibility with HDV 1080i editing. The PDW-F75 and PDW-HD1500 decks accept the optional MPEG TS card. This outputs a 25 Mbps signal over the i-LINK interface* for the large pool of NLEs that are compatible with HDV 1080i recording.
Does the XDCAM HD system use Proxy A/V?
Yes. The system combines the beauty of high definition with all the workflow innovation of the XDCAM system including the power of Proxy A/V.
What are overcranking and undercranking?
The terms originated with the early film cameras, where the frame rate was literally determined by a manual crank. Undercranking refers to shooting at a slower frame rate than the playback rate, for a high-speed "Keystone Kops" effect. Overcranking refers to shooting at a higher frame rate than the playback, for the beautiful slow motion effect often seen in cinema. The PDW-F355 enables both overcranking and undercranking at a range of frame rates from 4 fps to 60 fps in 1 fps increments. When viewed at 24 fps, 4 fps yields motion six times faster than normal, where 60 fps yields motion at 40% normal speed. And these effects can be played back right in the camera. Sony calls this feature "Slow and Quick Motion".
What frame rates are supported in the XDCAM HD system?
The base PDW-F335 camcorder shoots high definition at 1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 25P and 23.98P. The camcorder also captures standard definition at 480/59.94i, 480/29.97P and 480/23.98P or 576/50i and 576/25P. The advanced PDW-F355 adds variable frame rate capture from 4 fps to 60 fps in 1 fps increments. The PDW-F75 deck supports all the frame rates of both the PDW-F335 and PDW-F355 camcorders. The PDW-700 XDCAM HD 422 camcorder shoots high definition at 1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97p, 25p and 720/59.94p and 50p. This camcorder also captures standard definition at 480/59.94i, 480/29.97P and 480/23.98P or 576/50i and 576/25P with SD REC/Playback option card. The PDW-HD1500 deck supports all the frame rates of the PDW-700 camcorders.
Will Sony offer PAL versions?
You're reading about them now. All XDCAM HD Camcorders and Decks support both PAL and NTSC standard definition. One world, one camcorder.
Can I upconvert XDCAM standard definition content to HD?
Yes. The PDW-F75 and PDW-HD1500 can upconvert XDCAM standard definition content recorded in the DVCAM format at 25 Mbps to 1080i high definition at the output.
Can I downconvert XDCAM high definition content to SD?
Yes. All XDCAM HD camcorders and decks can downconvert to standard definition. The PDW-HD1500 also offers cross conversion between 1080 and 720 during playback.
Can XDCAM HD decks or camcorders also record standard definition?
Yes. The PDW-F355 and PDW-F335 camcorders and the PDW-F75 recorder (with an optional PDBK-104 board) and the PDW-700 camcorder and the PDW-HD1500 deck (with an CBKZMD01 option key) will all record DVCAM 25 Mbps standard definition in NTSC (480/59.94i) or PAL (576/50i).
Can XDCAM HD decks or camcorders play back my current XDCAM SD discs?
The F75 deck can play back DVCAM standard definition discs only, while the PDW-HD1500 can playback all XDCAM SD discs.
Can I record HD and SD on the same disc?
No. The XDCAM HD file system requires a disc to be all HD or all SD. However, you can freely select HD bitrates of 18, 25 or 35 Mbps for each clip you record on the same disc as long as the system frequency group (60i/30P, 50i/25P, 24P) and the audio channel is the same. The XDCAM SD file system requires each clip you record on the same disc to have the same bitrates and audio channel selection.
Why do the PDW-F335 and F355 use 1/2-inch type CCDs instead of 2/3-inch?
Sony is committed to high definition for all. Sony offers affordable, handheld, fixed-lens camcorders with 1/3 and 1/2-inch type image sensors and high-end production camcorders with 2/3-inch image sensors. XDCAM HD shoulder-mount camcorders with 1/2-inch type image sensors were designed to meet urgent requests from customers for affordable, professional HD production with interchangeable lenses. The choice of 1/2-inch image sensors enables Sony to deliver three distinct classes of professional HD production.
Who makes 1/2-inch HD lenses?
At the moment, both Canon and Fujinon. As the installed base of 1/2-inch type HD camcorders builds, we expect other manufacturers to enter this burgeoning market.
Can I use my 2/3-inch lenses on the XDCAM HD camcorder?
Yes, with the optional Sony LO-32BMT adaptor. Of course, the difference in size between 2/3-inch and 1/2-inch type sensors means that your lens focal lengths are multiplied by a factor of 1.37x.
What is the XDCAM EX system?
XDCAM EX recording is a system that records onto flash media cards. The first models in the series are the PMW-EX1 and EX3 handheld camcorders and the PMW-EX30 deck.
What type of media does the XDCAM EX system use?
The system uses SxS (S-by-S) memory cards, which were jointly announced by SanDisk and Sony. The cards are based on the PC industry's widely supported ExpressCard™ technology standard.
How can this be an XDCAM camcorder if it uses flash media and not optical disc?
Sony launched the XDCAM system as a brand name for all types of tapeless, file-based recording. The first XDCAM products used optical disc. Now optical is being joined by flash media in Sony's growing XDCAM line.
Why did Sony use the ExpressCard technology standard? Why not PC Cards?
Compared to the PC Card, the ExpressCard technology standard supports higher bus speeds, lower power consumption and a more compact form factor. The same industry group that created the PC Card, the PCMCIA, created the ExpressCard technology standard to replace the PC Card. The PCMCIA official website declares: "Please note that the PC Card Standard is closed to further development and PCMCIA strongly encourages future product designs to utilize the ExpressCard interface".
How do the XDCAM EX camcorders compare to the XDCAM disc camcorders?
Both support high definition. The XDCAM EX1 and EX3 camcorders are handheld models with fixed or interchangeable lenses respectively. The XDCAM disc-based camcorders are all shoulder-mount models that accept interchangeable lenses.
What codec does XDCAM EX use?
It uses the same MPEG-2 Long GOP encoding Main Profile at High Level, for broad compatibility with a wide-range of third-party non-linear editors and servers.
Does this mean that Sony will no longer develop XDCAM optical disc products?
Because the market is diverse. Sony will continue vigorously to develop both optical and flash media products. Sony expects that the XDCAM EX camcorder will be best suited to operations where the same person shoots and edits - and the media cards stay under that person's control. Sony expects that Professional Disc based recording will be best suited to larger operations and those where the videographer must hand over recorded assets to clients and post houses.
What's the possibility of a hybrid camcorder that offers both optical disc and flash media?
Sony is currently considering future directions.
What are the basic specifications of the PMW-EX camcorders?
The camcorder offers the following features:
Do XDCAM hardware and media work well in humid environments?
Incredibly well. Thanks to non-contact recording and playback, the XDCAM system has nothing that would cause the sticking that interferes with videotape operation. Sony specifies operating humidity up to 90%. However, in Sony's own tests the camcorders have been shown to operate as long as there is no condensation or dew on the surface of the disc. Should condensation exist on media while in a camcorder or deck, the user will be prompted with a HUMID alarm. In case of dew, if you allow the disc to acclimate to room temperature and humidity (68° F/40%RH) you can resume recording. One other hidden benefit of the media type is that even when moisture appears on the surface, there are no permanent effects. With other media types utilizing pins for contact, often when those pins come in contact with moisture, they have a tendency to short out, causing loss of data.
Is there shock and vibration resistance built into XDCAM camcorders?
Yes. Sony XDCAM camcorders use rubber dampers to hold the disc drive block in place, thereby minimizing the effect of any shock or vibration. In addition, a tracking system based on the best Sony servo technologies, reduces the chance of the optical head recording off track. In the event a shock exceeds the servo's capacity causing the head to move off track, recording continues in a buffer memory until the head is positioned properly. Once the head is back on track, the buffered information is recorded to disc. A substantial amount of buffering is built into the camcorder to operate in harsh environments.
What happens if the camcorder battery is removed or power is suddenly lost from an AC adaptor while recording?
The emergency recovery system is designed to restore as much AV data as possible even if the file system is not closed properly. If power is suddenly lost during a recording, the AV data can be recovered automatically once power is reapplied. When this type of recovery occurs, the duration of a lost recording is a maximum of four (4) seconds from the time just before power was lost.
What if a battery runs out while recording?
The system controller automatically stops recording and closes the file system before the full exhaustion of the battery. The camcorder also provides customizable battery settings for notifying the operator when battery power is below a desired level.
What is the time from power-on to being able to record, if the disc is already in?
Approximately 3.5 seconds. Tape camcorders take around four seconds.
What is the time from pushing the EJECT button to full ejection of a disc?
The EJECT button on the camcorder does not abort the recording process. Whether an EJECT is done shortly after a REC STOP or while the camera is idle, the EJECT process is completed in approximately 5 seconds.
How do I know my signal is being recorded? Is there a playback confidence function?
XDCAM products automatically confirm laser-writing conditions by checking the focus servo, tracking servo, reflection of laser beam and laser power. An alarm will alert you if an unusual condition is detected. Because optical recording is fundamentally different from tape recording, there is no traditional playback confidence monitoring.
How long does it take from inserting the disc to a picture being displayed on screen?
Approximately 10 seconds.
Is Metadata transferred together with proxy AV?
Yes.
When an optical deck receives MXF files from another machine, will there be proxy AV?
Yes. All XDCAM decks automatically create proxy AV that is not included in the MXF file. This function also works at high data transmission speeds via the Gigabit Ethernet or i.LINK (file access mode) interface.*
Can I play back while transferring over Ethernet?
No, it is not possible.
Are the DVCAM and MPEG HD files supported by Material eXchange Format (MXF) for Ethernet file transfers?
Yes. Both DVCAM and MPEG HD formats are supported.
Does the product line allow for direct file access to the disc in any models?
Direct file access on the disc is provided over the i.LINK interface* (via 'file access mode'). "File access mode" over the i.LINK interface* enables such operations as Browse File Directory, Direct read, Get File, Put File, etc. Since it occurs over the i.LINK interface, all products except for the PDW-U1 bare drive support the feature as all XDCAM units except fo the U1 include the I.LINK interface as part of the standard offering.