Panasonic announces new AJ-HPD2500G solid-state P2 HD recorder/player with AVC-Intra recording

With its four-unit size, the HPD2500G easily mounts into a 19-inch rack, fitting right into the existing infrastructures of sports trucks, broadcast stations and post-production facilities. Beyond the editing, recording, AV/IT connectivity and multi-format compatibility of the popular AJ-HPM200 P2 Mobile portable recorder/player, the HPD2500G delivers an increased range of audio/video connections and new user benefits targeted at truck and facility operators.

New AV connections found in the HPD2500G include: HD-SDI input/output, composite video input/output, plus SD SDI MON output; eight channels of AES/EBU audio I/Os; and two-channel XLR monitor outputs. Other key new functions include: improved display possibilities such as one-clip remote playback, thumbnail display during playback (the ability to edit while watching an external monitor), and a fixed mode thumbnail display (the ability to observe a thumbnail when on-air); and a remote encoder.

With AVC-Intra and DVCPRO HD recording as standard, the HPD2500G offers six P2 cards slots for recording 10-bit, 4:2:2 independent frame quality in a diverse range of high definition formats and frame rates, including 1080p, 1080i and 720p. Compatible with international broadcasting formats, the P2 HD deck is 50Hz/60Hz switchable. The HPD2500G supports 1080/24p (30p/25p) native recording and playback with the AVC-Intra codec. In HD-SDI mode, it supports 1080/24PsF input/output for use in high-end movie production. Multi-codec recording (DVCPRO 50, DVCPRO, DV) is possible in both 480i and 576i.

Advanced functions the HPD2500G shares with the HPM200 P2 Mobile include: enhanced cuts editing with separate source and record windows, full-frame rate playback from external disk drives, AVCHD compatibility (with the AJ-YCX250G option card), up-conversion of live video inputs in real time, and 24p timecode input for production applications.

The HPD2500G offers high-speed eSATA /USB hard disk drive interfaces for faster transfers and access to content, and a Giga-bit Ethernet (GigE) server/client function for direct network connectivity. Additional valuable features include a 4.3” LCD display, a range of recording functions including loop record, built-in waveform monitor and vectorscope, RS-422A remote control, broadcast-level editing controls with a jog/shuttle dial (100X forward/reverse speed) and audio faders, an SD card slot and assignable user files.

The AJ-HPD2500G will be available this month at an RRP of €21,950. It is backed by a five-year limited warranty program (Panasonic normal 1-year basic warranty plus an extended warranty for years two through five upon product registration).

About P2 HD

P2 HD all solid-state products offer high definition recording without the mechanical wear and environmental limitations of tape, hard disk, and optical disc based systems. P2 HD ensures the highest reliability, especially in challenging conditions of extreme temperature range, shock, and vibration. P2 HD products provide a significant reduction in maintenance costs, longer useful product life, and immediate access to recorded video (no need to digitize, ingest or create proxy video files) and metadata. P2 HD provides the reliability of solid-state production; the immediate connectivity to existing IT infrastructures; the speed, ease of use and portability of P2 cards; and interoperability with leading NLE systems.

About Panasonic

Panasonic Corporation is a worldwide leader in the development and manufacture of electronic products for a wide range of consumer, business and industrial needs. Based in Osaka, Japan, the company recorded consolidated net sales of 7.77 trillion yen (US $78.4 billion) for the year ended 31 March 2009. The company's shares are listed on the Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and New York (NYSE Symbol: PC) stock exchanges.