Sony Introduces the FR7 Cinema Line PTZ Camera

When we think of a PTZ camera, what usually comes to mind are remote features for use in an education or corporate environment, a compact form, and a built-in zoom lens. However, Sony enjoys bringing new potential to popular tech, and the recently announced FR7 Cinema Line PTZ camera is no different. The FR7 not only has standard PTZ features such as smooth pan/tilt/zoom functions, up to 100 presets, PoE++, and IP remote control, but it also adds a full-frame cinema sensor with 15+ stops of dynamic range, dual media slots, genlock, timecode, and a first for any PTZ cameras (as of this writing): a Sony E lens mount for interchangeable lenses. If you’re a fan of innovation and are looking to upgrade your PTZ camera setup, then the FR7 is for you.

Broadcast/Cinema Applications

The full-frame sensor on the FR7 provides a deep, 15+ stop dynamic range that you would expect from cameras used on broadcast dramas, talk shows, reality programming, concerts, and music videos. However, the camera is also compact and versatile enough for smaller occasions like weddings, events at houses of worship, and livestreamed Internet programs. You can also control the FR7 remotely—a bonus that adds even more value to your production.

Enhanced Features

The camera captures up to UHD 4K120 video. It supports common looks such as S-Cinetone, Cine EI, and MLUT for matching other cameras, and it features professional color spaces such as Log3 and HLG deep color / resolution options for post-production workflow. Variable 1/4 to 1/128 electronic ND filters prevent you from worrying about adding rear lens filters. Features like Fast Hybrid AF, real-time Eye AF, and Tracking AF allow you to track your subjects accurately.

Connectivity and Media

The camera connects to a LAN via Ethernet, and it supports PoE++ so you can save extra cabling. You can control the camera using IP remote controllers such as the RP-IP500, or you can utilize a remote web app from a tablet or computer. It outputs to HDMI, supports SDI raw output, and it allows you to input audio via a 5-pin XLR. Its broadcast features include a tally lamp, timecode in, an OPTION connector, and a Genlock connector for integration into larger productions. The FR7 also has dual media slots that accept CFexpress Type-A/SDXC cards for internal recording, something that is not often found on a PTZ camera.

Options

With an optional upgrade, you’ll be able to add the FR7 to an NDI network and stream high-quality NDI|HX video. The camera also comes in an FR7 Camera Kit that includes a 28-135mm E-mount zoom lens, and it is ceiling mountable using an optional ceiling bracket.

How will you integrate the FR7 into your production? Let us know in the Comments section, below.