SONY PMWF5/55: NEW Firmware Timeline Charts - July 2013

Sony continuously enhances any new technology to meet our customers’ constantly evolving needs.

We gather industry feedback and then give that information back to our engineers to build into future product versions.

After extensive input from all of you, we present to you the ongoing development and new firmware timeline charts for the AXS-R5, F5 and F55. They are below and can also be downloaded.

Highlighting the big update this month is the HD - 10 bit SR Codec, (SR File). This codec has been strongly requested for episodic television and feature film work; since it’s an extremely robust algorithm that is visually lossless (areas of every frame are uncompressed). Also, 220Mbps 4:2:2 and 440Mbps (both 4:2:2 and RGB) result in very manageable file sizes and very easy to decode.

The SR File is the exact same codec as used in the HDCAM-SR digital tape system, which was, and in many cases still is, the mastering and deliverable standard in the production industry. For shooting in HD, the picture quality of SR File with the F5 and F55 should prove spectacular and will be a key differentiation from every other camera on the market today for HD production.

You may also notice on the charts that, where possible, the F5 is updated with the same features as the F55. Some major changes to the firmware timeline include the support of exposure tools, (more are coming in addition to what is listed in the charts), and the addition of 1.3 x Anamorphic. False Color is confirmed but exact implementation is being finalized and will be announced soon.

After significant feedback about the F5 high frame rate, we studied the possibility of increasing HFR to the same level as that of the F55, which is up to 240 frames per second. As a result of this effort we are proud to implement 240fps with the F5 in a future firmware update in 2K RAW using the AXS-R5.

2K RAW: September will see the same frame rate values being implemented as the F55 which are 120P, 180P, and 240P.

XAVC HD: Both cameras will have 120P HFR

Later we will implement the Slow/Quick mode, meaning each frame can be individually dialed in, up to 240fps speed. (Refer to the charts below for more information)

ND filter knob – We are going to provide an upgraded filter knob for FREE later this month. Details will follow.

New Cables – For purchase, new cables connecting the DVF-EL100 OLED VF to the camera body will be available, expected later in July.

B4 2/3" lens adapter is confirmed, details will be posted here when available

Please keep in mind that all features are always subject to change, and not every feature is listed in these charts as some are still going through engineering analysis in terms of when and how they can be implemented.

So if you do not see your desired feature listed, don’t be discouraged. It does not mean that it’s not coming.

Remember, the charts only detail the major features of each update. As you know, each firmware update contains improvements and fixes not otherwise listed so we strongly recommend you stay current with each firmware release regardless if you intend to use the newly added features.

Keep checking back here for updated information. Rather than create new posts, I will update this one as more information becomes available.

And, as always, we want to hear what you think and what you need to do your work the best you can so be sure to leave feedback in this thread.

We hope you are happy with these developments, and as mentioned above there is lots more to come

Cheers

Peter

UPDATE

Please refer to the revised charts below. There were a couple of inaccuracies in the charts uploaded on Friday. Corrections have been made in the revised charts below. Sorry for the inconvenience.

These new charts reflect the date of 7/15/2013 and are marked “REVISED”

UPDATE - July 16th

Please note F5 chart has been updated, reflecting July 16th on the chart

UPDATE - July 17th

New charts published below, several changes