Panasonic announces the availability of its compact AK-HC1800N HD multi-purpose camera. Designed with the latest advancements in advanced image processing technology and control, the HC1800N delivers full HD video in a convertible camera.

The 2/3” 2.2-megapixel 3-CCD HC1800N is designed for high-end production in a variety of applications. The camera’s native 1920x1080 resolution is reinforced by an advanced single-channel transfer system and spatial offset processing features that reduce aliasing and provide high resolution. The full 2/3” camera offers extraordinarily low light sensitivity (F10 at 2000 lx), an infinitesimal smear level of -130dB and a modulation factor of more than 45%.

The camera provides users with precise image adjustments and control functions such as Panasonic’s exclusive digital signal processor (DSP) technology with a 12-axis color matrix that allows for fine adjustments of hue and saturation. For remote or tower applications, users can activate the camera’s “intelligent” function, which automatically adjusts image level and color temperature settings such as iris control, variable gain, and ND filters according to changes in the environment.

Other features include advanced color enhancing gamma functions CineGamma™ curve and a Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS) function that greatly improves results when shooting high contrast scenes with varying degrees of illumination.

The compact, 3.3-pound camera unit comes equipped with a standard HD-SDI output. It also features genlock, a mini 15-pin connector for control and power, tally function, iris, and zoom/focus controls, motor driven optical filters (Clear, 1/4ND, 1/16ND, 1/64ND), DC 12V operation, and a low power consumption of 12 watts.

The HC1800N is compatible with Panasonic’s comprehensive line of high performance indoor/outdoor pan-tilt systems, including the AW-PH400, AW-PH405, the AW-PH650 outdoor pan/tilt head, pan-tilt controllers, and camera control units.