Sony Upgrades BRC-X1000 and BRC-H800 Remote PTZ Cameras to Support Free-D Protocol, Opening Up New Creative Possibilities

As part of ongoing efforts to help productions work safely and remotely, Sony is upgrading its BRC camera range with a new set of features.

More Creative Options, Simplified Workflow

Designed for remote production and efficient operations, the V2.1 firmware upgrade to the BRC-X1000/1, BRC-X1000/WPW and BRC-H800/1, BRC-H800/WPW will allow producers and operators to simplify their VR/AR production workflows.

Through this update, the BRC cameras will output tracking data over IP, using the industry standard Free-D protocol.  This enables the cameras to directly feed in real time the Pan, Tilt, Zoom, Focus and Iris, as well as the position of the BRC Camera, making simple and cost effective VR/AR production without additional tracking devices or systems.

This new feature will allow productions to easily incorporate VR/AR into their live content, such as expanded sets or scenery, live animations, e-sports and graphic overlays, enriching their production.

Free-D protocol is an industry standard, supported by major AR/VR solutions providers. BRC-X1000 and BRC-H800 are currently under verification with The Future Group (Pixotope), Reckeen, Vizrt and Zero Density, and plan to support integration with other partners implementing Free-D data.

Enhanced Operations

As social distancing and reduced operational crews increase, the update will also improve the Pan/Tilt/Zoom operations of the BRC-X1000 and BRC-H800.  A reduced minimum speed allows the camera to more accurately track an object on the set and facilitate shot framing.  The output will be more realistic and smoother, even with non-professional operators.  Additionally, the cameras will now focus as soon as the preset is recalled, at the same time as the PTZ function, to enable more natural camera movements.  Control when using a physical remote controller such as a pan-bar one will also be supported.

The firmware V2.1 upgrade for BRC-X1000 and BRC-H800 is planned to be available for free on August 31 at pro.sony.