Canon’s new CR-X300, a robust PTZ camera, has a compact build, simple operation and various connectivity options that help support and simplify remote production workflows. The CR-X300 adds to Canon’s remote camera system line-up, currently comprising the CR-N500, CR-N300 and CR-X500. The CR-X300 records 4K video and is compatible with a number of IP protocols. Its durable body protects content against the elements, making it suitable for outdoor environments, especially in limited spaces.
Variable Lighting
The CR-X300 is built with a 1/2.3-Inch Type CMOS sensor and the Canon DIGIC DV6 processor, producing 4K UHD up to 30p at 4:2:2 10-bit quality, and FHD up to 60p. Using Canon’s Hybrid Autofocus system, the CR-X300 is capable of fast, precise focus on subjects, also under low-light conditions for such applications as reality TV or wildlife at night. It includes a removable IR Cut Filter to enhance IR performance.
Pan motion operation.
The cameras has a stabilised 20x optical zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.8 at its widest setting, further improving image quality in low-light settings. With a built-in, graduated type ND filter, giving several options with a maximum setting of 1/8 ND, this camera also helps users working in brighter environments, such as shooting in broad daylight.
Streaming Protocols
All of the cameras in the Canon PTZ line-up are compatible with a range of protocols for video transmission, camera control and 4K video streaming over IP. These include RTMP/RTMPS, NDI|HX, RTP/RTSP Standard Communication Protocol and also Canon’s new XC Protocol, allowing users to stream directly to selected CDNs for more efficient production. The XC Protocol allows other Canon PTZ cameras and camcorders, such as those from the Canon Cinema EOS range, to be used within the same production system as the CR-X300.
The CR-X300’s connectivity options include Power over Ethernet (PoE++), HDMI and 6G-SDI, which increases the camera’s potential to fit into existing production systems and integrate with existing workflows.
Customised Control
The CR-X300 uses a pan and tilt drive mechanism that moves at a variable speed of 0.3°/second to 60°/second, so that the camera operator can follow the action smoothly. The camera is compatible with Canon’s recent RC-IP100 controller, as well as selected third-party controllers, and the Remote Camera Control Application – software that enables control of up to 20 Canon PTZ cameras via IP, nine of which can be shown as a live preview at any one time on the user interface. With custom picture setting options similar to the CR-N300, the CR-X300 can colour match with other Canon Cameras from the Cinema EOS or XF/XA range. Its settings are optimised for specific shooting conditions such as sport, portrait, low light and spotlight.
Robust
Canon designed the CR-X300 to meet a demand for video distribution in outdoor applications – live or pre-recorded – such as sporting events or theme parks. Many PTZ cameras rely on outdoor housing, however, the CR-X300 has a durable body that meets IP65 dustproof and water-resistant standards, a weather resistant paint finish and a built-in wiper to capture clear video, regardless of rainy conditions. It can withstand wind speeds of up to 60 m/s in and temperature ranges between -15°C to 40°C.
Weighing approximately 7kg and with a convenient handle, the CR-X300 is a compact, portable model that supports shooting on the move, and is available now. www.canon.com.au
