HDC-P50A system camera product image

HDC-P50A

A compact and highly versatile 4K/HD HFR-compatible POV (Point of View) system camera, combining a 3-chip 2/3-inch 4K CMOS sensor for extremely high picture quality with the flexibility of SDI and IP output options to suit a wide range of live production environments.

Networked Live logo, 4K logo, HDR Logo, SR Live logo

This is a transparent image

Exceptional live production versatility

Providing extremely high-quality images for 4K*1/HD HDR and 4K*1/HD HFR*2 production workflows, the HDC-P50A is a Point of View (POV) system camera that’s ideal for sport and other live applications. Integrating smoothly in SDI production infrastructure, its flexibility is further increased by the addition of a direct IP output for incorporation in ST 2110 productions*3.

Compact, light and easy to handle, the HDC-P50A POV camera offers broad possibilities for rich visual expression in a range of shooting situations. It can output remarkably crisp, clear 4K*1/HD images directly from the camera head over SMF (or SDI) with no need for an SDI to SMF converter when operating the wirecam. HD HFR*2 up to 6x can be output directly from the camera’s SDI output, rising to 8x via a connected CCU. Similarly, 4K*1 HFR*2 up to 4x is available via SDI (requires a camera connection to a CCU) *4. HD HFR up to 8x is also available via a connected CCU.

A blue racing car with a support crew.
A man handling the HDC-P50A.

Used standalone or as part of a multi-camera shoot, the HDC-P50A can be crane-mounted or operated as a fixed camera position. It’s also ideal for a wide range of other shooting situations, such as in combination with a camera stabilizer, in handheld mode, during wireless shooting, or while filming aerial footage from a helicopter.

3-chip 2/3-type CMOS Sensor with Global Shutter

The HDC-P50A incorporates a 3-chip 2/3-inch 4K CMOS sensor optical block with global shutter technology that delivers exquisite picture quality. This high-performance sensor is combined with a specially developed Digital Signal Processing Circuit, achieving very high sensitivity and extremely low noise levels to suit a wide range of shooting scenarios.

An illustration representing a 3-chip 2/3-type CMOS Sensor.

Wide color space and dynamic range

The advanced optical system of the HDC-P50A supports the ITU-R BT.2020 color gamut, enabling exceptionally wide, precise color reproduction in live broadcasts. From sports to concerts and special events, you’ll see the difference with vibrant, true-to-life images that make viewers feel as if they’re really there. HDR operation is available for 4K*1 and HD simultaneous live operation.

An illustration representing the wide color gamut.

Direct IP output

In addition to its conventional SDI output, the HDC-P50A can also output HD or 4K*1 pictures via IP (ST 2110)*3 for integration with today’s IP-based production infrastructures. The camera’s direct IP output allows connection to a Camera Control Unit (CCU) to enable long-distance transmission over single-mode fiber.*3

A diagram showing Sony cameras and SDI output, IP transmission and CCU/SMF transmission details.

HFR output up to 4K 4x/HD 8x

The HDC-P50A can output High Frame Rate images in HD*2 at up to 8x when connected to a Camera Control Unit via SDI or IP. It can also output 4K*1 at up to 4x HFR*2 when connected to a CCU via SDI.*4

SDI 4K4x, 3x, 2x (CCU output)
1x (Standalone output & CCU output)
SDI HD8x (CCU output)
6x, 4x, 3x, 2x, 1x (Standalone output & CCU output)
IP (ST 2110) 4K1x (Standalone output & CCU output)
IP (ST 2110) HD1x (Standalone output)
6x, 4x, 3x, 2x, 1x (CCU output)

Light, compact and energy efficient

The HDC-P50A packs impressive imaging performance into a light, compact camera body that’s ideal for use in space-limited situations such as housing, helicopter camera mounts or operated as a fixed camera position. Low power consumption* is complemented by minimal operating noise levels.

* The HDC-P50A is powered by local power supply only.

Rear of HDC-P50A.
An image of the variable ND filter.

Adaptable, variable ND filter

Dual optical filter wheels for Neutral Density (ND) and Color Correction (CC) open up even wider creative possibilities, with the ability to control both filters from a remote control panel or master setup unit. Since the variable ND filter can be adjusted seamlessly during operation, the HDC-P50A is ideal for integration with crane-mounted or wirecam systems, allowing control over exposure without affecting depth of field as the camera moves in changing lighting conditions, such as at a sports stadium.

Seamless integration into Sony live production workflows

The HDC-P50A joins Sony’s acclaimed HDC Series family of live production solutions. Integrating seamlessly with existing HD infrastructures – including lenses, remote control panels and other accessories, it gives ambitious program makers exciting new possibilities for creating HD, 4K*1 HDR and HD HFR*2 productions. Production flexibility is broadened further still by smooth integration with third-party control systems.

Sony cameras used to shoot car races.

*1 Requires optional 4K license HZC-UHD50
*2 Requires optional HFR license HZC-HFR50
*3 Requires optional IP license HZC-SFP5A
*4 HKCU-UHF50 installed HDCU-5000 is required
*5 HD 8x only output from CCU
*6 HZCE-DIR50 installed HDCE-TX50 is required