Panasonic AK-UC3000 Meets ‘El Clásico’ Challenge in 4K

Mediaproproduced the match, played in November 2015, in Ultra HD using tenPanasonic AK-UC3000cameras operated from their new mobile unit. Because the UC3000 camera supplies 4K and HD signals simultaneously, the game was also produced in HD, the signal from which was successfully distributed to 170 countries and an estimated audience of 600 million viewers.  

Prior to El Clásico, Mediapro conducted a quality and functionality test on a number of UHD cameras during the Liga Adelante game between Leganés and Alcorcón. Having analysed in particular the current options in UHD studio cameras, Mediapro opted to equip its mobile unit with the Panasonic UC3000 cameras.

The UC3000 captures images at 4K image quality and, despite its small size, is compatible withB4 mount lenses. Users can operate the camera inboth 4K and HD modes, and maintain high sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratio and resolution with a wide dynamic range. According to Panasonic, the UC3000 aims to reach a balance between quality parameters.

The camera includes the conventional functions such asdynamic range stretch, or DRS, suppressing blocked shadows and blown highlights, andCineGamma, but also adds extra functionality includingfocus assist, flash band compensationandskew reduction, achieved through the high-speed scan from the MOS sensor.