HDC-1550 ^{Previous Model}

New DSP delivers standards of picture quality and performance

The newly developed DSP (Digital Signal Processing) LSI "Visual Image Processor" is the heart of the image-processing device for the HDC-1550. By adopting the latest 0.11 micron design rule, this processor can accommodate up to 1080/60 progressive format and 14-bit resolution, maximising the high-clarity images captured by the CCD. In addition, white balance, white shading, and flare are digitally corrected, allowing for stable image correction.

Power HAD EX CCD for high sensitivity, low noise

The HDC-1550 camera is equipped with a newly developed three 2/3-inch type 2.2-megapixel HD CCD. Based on Sony HAD sensor technology and the latest on-chip lens structure, this new CCD offers a high sensitivity of F10 at 2000 lx and an excellent signal-to-noise ratio of 54 dB (typical). In addition to this performance, a wide variety of capturing modes including 1080/50i, 1080/60i, 1080/24P, 1080/25P, and 1080/30P are available. What's more, this CCD can capture top-quality 1080/60P(*) images - a capability that also offers highest-quality 720/50P and 720/60P image acquisition for today's operations.

(*)1080/60P and 1080/50P signals can be output from the HDC-1000/HDC-1550 camera head.

14 bit A/D conversion

The HDC-1550 is the first HD camera to utilise a 14-bit A/D converter, that enables images captured by the high-performance CCDs to be processed with maximum precision. In particular, this high-resolution A/D conversion allows the gradation in mid-to-dark-tone areas of the picture to be faithfully reproduced. Thanks to the 14-bit A/D converter, pre-knee signal compression at highlight areas can be eliminated and the camera can clearly reproduce a high-luminance subject at a 600% dynamic range.

Low profile chassis design

Ensures comfortable operation either on the shoulder or on a tripod.

Super-sampled 720P operation

The use of a 1080 line HD imager which can operate at up to 50 progressive frames per second allows the camera system to output a very high quality 720/50P output. Digital filtering is employed to ensure higher resolution and lower aliasing to be achieved than would be possible with a 720P native image sensor.