Similar to the palm-sized HXR-NX30E, the Sony PMW-100 camcorder is apparently the smallest and lightest within the XDCAM family. This handheld video recorder cum camera supports recording and playback at up to 50Mbps based on the MPEG HD422 codec in 1080i, 1080p and 720p resolutions.
Combining the flexibility of a handheld form factor with the quality derived by shoulder mount camcorders, the PMW-100 is said to come with the capability of recording broadcast quality MPEG HD422 videos at 50Mbps through the Long GOP compression technology. Users can even switch between MPEG HD420 35Mbps to 25Mbps or DVCAM 25Mbps modes. Furthermore, it brings in compatibility with SxS memory cards as its primary storage as well as Memory Stick, SD or XQD card support as the emergency hoarding medium.
“The PMW-100 combines exceptional picture quality with portability and outstanding manoeuvrability based on the proven XDCAM workflow, taking professional users to a whole new level of productivity. The development of the PMW-100 is a natural step in the progression of the XDCAM range and is a direct response to our customers’ requirements. Long-time XDCAM users requested a light and compact camcorder that will not only work seamlessly on its own, but also alongside other XDCAM cameras such as the acclaimed PMW-500,” commented Bill Drummond, Strategic Marketing Manager, Sony Europe.
Users will also be able to capture videos starting at 1fps to 60fps in 720p mode and from 1fps to 30fps in 1080p, through the Slow & Quick Motion feature. The camcorder is equipped with a full color WVGA LCD that stretches up to 3.5 inches in length and portrays a resolution of 852 x 480 pixels. It employs a 1/2.9-inch Exmor CMOS sensor with a 5.4mm to 54mm zoom lens.
The Sony PMW-100 release date is scheduled for May 2012 shipment. Price details for the camcorder are not disclosed by the company as of now.