JVC-HM700: first shoulder camcorder that records on SDHC cards

JVC launches the GY-HM700 solid-state ProHD camcorder, designed for news production and digital cinematography. Solid state, it records directly and natively to the popular SDHC cards in QuickTime and optionally to SxS in XDCAM EX.

Saving the cumbersome import, drastically accelerating the time from dumping to post-production is one of the main advantages of the new JVC GY-HM700 camcorder, capable of directly and natively recording QuickTime files on the popular SDHC cards or optionally in XDCASM EX on SxS cards. This new camcorder thus allows a more efficient workflow with the consequent cost savings by working on solid state cards and having the material immediately available in Apple's Final Cut Pro editor. There is no need to convert or repackage files before editing. It is even possible to edit directly from the memory card and since there is no transfer or re-encoding, the original quality of material is preserved throughout the process.

The camera has two slots, allowing up to a total of 64GB of camera storage, allowing a recording time of up to six hours of continuous HD recording. The camera automatically starts recording on the second card when the first card runs out of capacity. When the second card is also depleted, the camera reverts recording to the first slot, facilitating virtually unlimited recording.

SDHC cards are reliable and economical and allow you to implement a recording system that consumes up to 20% less than a hard drive-based system. The cost per minute of an SDHC memory card is already comparable to that of a tape.
If the optional KA-MR100G recorder is attached to the camera, it is possible to record XDCAM EX-compatible .MP4 files on high-speed SxS cards, while simultaneously recording the same .MP4 files on the camera's own SDHC cards. Having two copies instantly provides more versatility in the field with the added security of always having a backup of the material.

High resolution

The GY-HM700 features a 3-sensor CCD 1/3" progressive scan. JVC engineers have developed a new and exclusive 1/3" optical block with Diagonal Offset (Pixel Shift on 3 axes) and an exclusive Adaptive Pixel Correlation technique that produces an image resolution significantly higher than in previous models and directly comparable to other cameras in the sector with larger sensors. The higher resolution imaging process is complemented by a new removable optics developed by Canon, the KT14x4.4KRSJ. Its MTF value provides a higher resolution than other lenses in its category and is ideal for working with a Full HD signal at 1920 x 1080. The standard 1/3" bayonet mount nevertheless allows you to attach a multitude of optics available on the market. Professionals working in the field of digital cinema production will also continue to appreciate the advantages of the optional HZ-CA13 adapter for 16 mm cinema optics, since the camera allows the image to be inverted.

The proprietary technology in the development and manufacturing of MPEG2 encoders has led to the inclusion of a new highly efficient chip that allows working in Full HD up to 35 Mbps. The GY-HM700 supports most HD digital signal formats at 1920 x 1080, 1440 x 1080 and 1280 x 720.

Visor LCOS

The GY-HM700 is equipped with a new robust viewfinder that uses a high resolution LCOS type chip of 0.45" and 1.22 Megapixels of resolution. This new digital viewfinder displays images with a resolution up to 5 times higher than that of conventional LCD viewfinders. Its robust aluminum chassis and an LED-based light source ensure trouble-free operation and a long operational life. The camera also incorporates a new LCD monitor 4.3” folding screen that informs the operator of recording status, playback, clip management and menu settings. With a total weight of less than 4 kg, including optics, viewfinder, microphone and battery (IDX Endura type), the GY-HM700 fits perfectly on the shoulder and provides stable and balanced shooting, without causing the fatigue associated with traditional shoulder cameras. An included clip viewer, multiple file management functions, an exposure meter and the exclusive assisted focus system, complete the basic features of the GY-HM700. The camera has HD/SD SDI, Component, composite video terminals and simultaneous DV/HDV IEEE-1394 output. The camera also has a terminal for connecting remote controls via 6 pin.

Audio LPCM

The GY-HM700 records two channels of uncompressed 16-bit LPCM audio sampled at 48Khz. Levels can be adjusted manually or automatically using the AGC circuit, including a level indicator on the viewfinder and LCD display. It also incorporates two XLR audio input terminals with phantom power for an external microphone and/or a wireless receiver.

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