PDW-F75 - Sony

XDCAM HD Family 

XDCAM HD Camcorder 

PDW-F355 / PDW-F335 

XDCAM HD Recording Deck 

PDW-F75 

XDCAM Drive Unit 

PDW-U1 

www.sony.com/XDCAM

2 

XDCAM HD Systems Have Taken Another 

Step Forward for HD Production 

Sony introduced the XDCAM ® HD series in response to rapidly growing expectations for a wider 

choice of high-definition (HD) video recording systems. Since that time, the XDCAM HD products 

have been widely adopted around the world by a wide variety of users such as cinematographers, 

production facilities, broadcasters, and video professionals. XDCAM HD products not only boast a 

stunning HD picture quality, but also enable advanced nonlinear recording on “Professional Disc”an 

optical disc media based on blue-violet laser technology. Users have been enjoying the 

tremendous benefits of disc-based operations, such as instant random access and network capability 

to name just a few. 

Sony has evolved its XDCAM HD lineup by introducing two new camcorders, the PDW-F355 and 

PDW-F335, and a new deck, the PDW-F75, to provide much greater format versatility and operational 

flexibility. One of the most advanced features of the new lineup is its long recording time of 

approximately 4.5 hours of 1080i HD video. This is achieved by a newly developed dual-layer disc, 

the PFD50DLA, which has an extremely large storage capacity of 50 GB. 

The full lineup now comprises two 1/2-inch-type three-CCD camcorders, the new PDW-F355 and 

PDW-F335, plus the PDW-F75 deck. What's remarkable in the lineup is the addition of the new PDW-U1 

drive unit, which offers a compact, mobile, and highly cost-effective 

solution for various applications. It serves as an external PC drive, connected via the Hi-Speed USB 

(USB 2.0) interface, and allows users to instantly view material recorded to Professional Disc media on 

their PC. It can also be used as a source feeder to nonlinear editing systems. 

With greater system flexibility and operational conveniences, the enhanced lineup of 

Sony XDCAM HD products further expands the world of HD systems for all types of production.

PDW-F355 Camcorder 

PDW-F75 Recording Deck 

PDW-F335 Camcorder 

PDW-U1 Drive Unit 

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4 

XDCAM HD –Versatile, Disc-based HD Recording System 

The Sony XDCAM HD system is a highly versatile production tool that offers flexible recording 

functionalities including a choice of video frame rates, interlace or progressive modes, 

recording data rates, and both HD or SD* formats. *Selectable between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios. 

HD 1080 Recording using the “MPEG HD” 

Codec 

The XDCAM HD products record 

1080-line high-definition video using 

the “MPEG HD” codec that uses the industry-standard 

MPEG-2 MP@HL compression. The use of this codec, which 

is based on common MPEG compression, allows 

compatibility with many other devices such as nonlinear 

editing systems. 

Selectable Bit Rates 

Choosing the highest bit rate of 35 Mb/s results in the 

highest-quality pictures over a recording time of up to 150 

minutes*, while choosing the 18 Mb/s bit rate provides a 

longer recording time of up to 265 minutes*. 

*Approximate time in two-channel audio recording mode with the PFD50DLA (50 GB disc). 

Wide Choice of Video Format – Interlace 

and Progressive Including Native “23.98P” 

Mode 

The XDCAM HD products offer a wide choice of video 

formats for both frame rates and scanning mode. They 

include 1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 25P, and native 23.98P. 

High-quality Uncompressed Audio Recording 

In addition to HD video recording, high quality audio is 

an equally significant feature in the XDCAM HD system. 

The XDCAM HD products can record four-channel, 

16-bit, 48-kHz uncompressed audio. 

XDCAM HD Recording Specifications 

HD Video Bit Rate and 

Codec Recording Time* 

(approx.) 

SD Video 

Codec 

Audio 

Compression 

Sampling Rate 

Number of Pixels 

Compression 

Sampling Rate 

Bit Rate and 

Recording Time (approx.) 

Active Lines Per Frame 

Compression 

Number of Channels 

Sampling Frequency 

Quantization 

MPEG-2 MP@HL 

4:2:0 

HQ, 35 Mb/s VBR 

SP, 25 Mb/s CBR 

LP, 18 Mb/s VBR 

1440 x 1080 

DVCAM 

4:1:1 (NTSC)/4:2:0 (PAL) 

25Mb/s 

PFD50DLA(50 GB) 

145 minutes (4-ch audio) 






480 (NTSC)/576 (PAL) 

None (Linear PCM) 

2 or 4, selectable 

48 kHz 

16 bits/sample 

PFD23A(23.3 GB) 







PFD50DLA(50 GB) PFD23A(23.3 GB) 

185 minutes 85 minutes 

*When recording in HQ (35Mb/s) or LP (18 Mb/s) mode, recording time may 

be more than the above specified figures depending on the actual bit rate 

that is adopted during VBR encoding. 

XDCAM HD 

HD/SD Switchable Recording and Up/Down 

Conversion Capability 

The XDCAM HD camcorders and 

PDW-F75 deck* provide the powerful 

capability to record in DVCAM 

format with NTSC/PAL and 16:9/4:3 switchable modes, 

as well as the MPEG HD format. What's more, both the 

XDCAM HD camcorders and deck incorporate a 

down-conversion capability that allows material recorded in 

the MPEG HD format to be converted to SD signals and 

output via the SD video output connectors (including SD 

composite and i.LINK** connectors). This enables users to 

view the material on an SD monitor or transfer it to other 

SD-based equipment such as a VTR or editor. 

The PDW-F75 also boasts an up-conversion capability, which 

allows material recorded in the DVCAM format to be 

converted to HD signals and output via its HD-SDI*** or HD 

analog component connector. These capabilities allow 

users to easily and flexibly migrate to HD-based operations 

at their own pace. 

*The PDW-F75 deck provides DVCAM recording from inputs via the SD-SDI or SD 

analog composite interfaces, which require the optional PDBK-104. 

**i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product is equipped 

with an IEEE1394 connector. Not all products with an i.LINK connector may 

communicate with each other. Please refer to the documentation that comes 

with any device having an i.LINK connector for 

information on compatibility, operating conditions, 

and proper connection. 

***HD-SDI output is only available on the PDW-F75.

File-based Disc Recording 

In addition to its impressive HD picture quality, what 

makes the XDCAM HD system so distinguished is its 

file-based disc recording capability. This brings huge 

benefits such as instant random access and IT 

connectivity, to name just two. 

Powerful Nonlinear Recording 

– the Professional Disc Media 

The XDCAM HD products use a large-capacity nonlinear 

optical disc for recording called Professional Disc media, 

which Sony has developed specifically for professional 

recording applications. 

The PFD50DLA and PFD23A are 12-cm, reusable optical 

discs. The PFD50DLA is a dual-layer disc with an 

overwhelming capacity of 50 GB, while the PFD23A is a 

single-layer, 23-GB disc. The large capacity of the 

PFD50DLA makes it possible to record up to 265 minutes* of 

HD material. Professional Disc media is highly reliable and 

durable because it experiences no mechanical contact 

during recording or playback, and is packaged into an 

extremely durable and dust-resistant disc cartridge. 

The non-contact recording and playback also make it an 

ideal media for long-term storage of AV assets. Whereas 

traditional tape archive systems must be rewound on a 

periodic basis to remove magnetic powder debris, the 

Professional Disc media completely eliminates this process. 

Its reliability has already been demonstrated by the huge 

number of XDCAM products that have been in the field 

since 2004. 

*This figure is approximate. The precise recording duration will depend on the 

bit rate selected. 

PFD50DLA 

XDCAM HD 

The Key Technology Enabling Dual-layer 

Recording 

The development of the new dual-layer disc, PFD50DLA 

has been long-awaited by users who want to achieve a 

much longer recording time on the XDCAM HD system. 

This large-capacity dual-layer disc with compatible disc 

drive, provide four technological advances: 

1. Increased recording density and the dual-layer disc 

structure offer more than twice the capacity of the 

single-layer disc. 

2. The new substrate and production method enhance 

the stable reflection and transmission of the laser. 

3. The new pickup uses much higher laser power - 

enough to record on a dual-layer disc, while 

maintaining a long life equivalent to the pickup used 

for single-layer disc recording. 

4. The newly developed servo-control mechanism - 

which is resistant to the noises that occur at laser 

reflections and transmissions at each layer - enables 

fewer access errors, even in unstable situations. 

In addition to these new advances, the dual-layer disc 

provides superb robustness and reliability equivalent to 

those of the single-layer disc. 

Single-layer Disc 

Disc Substrate 

One Reflection 

Dual-layer Disc 

Disc Substrate 

One Reflection and Two Transmissions 

Require More Laser Power 

PFD23A 

Recording Layer 

Cover Layer 

Recording Layer 0 

Space Layer (25µm) 

Recording Layer 1 

Cover Layer (75µm) 

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IT/Network Friendly 

In the Sony XDCAM series of products, recordings are 

made as data files in the industry-standard MXF (Material 

eXchange Format) file format. This allows material to be 

handled with great flexibility in an IT-based environment - 

easily available for copying, transferring, sharing, and 

archiving. All these operations are accomplished without 

any “digitizing” process required. File-based data copying 

allows for degradation-free dubbing of AV content, which 

can be performed easily on a PC. The file-based 

recording system also allows for material to be viewed 

directly on a PC, simply by linking it to the XDCAM unit via 

an i.LINK or Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) connection*. 

This works in just the same way as a PC reading files on an 

external drive. 

The XDCAM HD camcorders and deck come equipped 

with IT-friendly, PC-based interfaces. 

These include an i.LINK interface supporting DV OUT and 

File Access Mode as standard, plus a Gigabit Ethernet 

interface available on the PDW-F75 deck as an option. 

Connecting the XDCAM HD system to an Ethernet network 

offers users a new style of network-based operations that 

can dramatically improve the efficiency of their workflows. 

The PDW-U1 drive uses the common USB interface for easy 

connectivity and wide compatibility with most PCs. 

*Supported interfaces vary by products. 

No Overwriting to Footage 

– For Immediate Recording Start 

By virtue of recording on optical disc media, the XDCAM HD 

system makes each new recording on an empty area of 

the disc. This is extremely useful, especially when shooting 

with camcorders, as it relieves the concerns of camera 

operators about accidentally recording over good takes, 

and eliminates the burden of searching for the correct 

position to start the next recording. In short, it means the 

camera is always ready for the next shot. 

Instant-access Thumbnail Search with 

“Expand” Function 

With all XDCAM HD products, video and audio signals are 

recorded as one clip file each time a recording is started 

and stopped. During playback, cue-up to the next or 

previous clips is possible simply by pressing the ‘Next’ or 

‘Previous’ button, as you would do on a CD or DVD player. 

Furthermore, thumbnails are automatically generated for 

each clip as a visual reference, allowing operators to cue-up 

to a desired scene simply by guiding the cursor to a 

thumbnail and pressing the ‘Play’ button. For further 

convenience, the ‘Expand’ function allows one selected clip 

in the Thumbnail display to be divided into 12 even-time 

intervals, each with their own thumbnail identifier. This is 

useful if you want to quickly search for a particular scene 

within a lengthy clip. 

Expand Function 

Scene Selection Function 

XDCAM HD 

The Scene Selection function allows simple cuts-only 

editing* to be performed within the camcorder or deck 

itself. The results of the edits can be saved as an XDCAM 

EDL (called “Clip List”), which can be written back to the 

original disc to stay with the material. 

The disc can then be played back according to the Clip 

List so that only selected portions are played out in the 

desired order. The Scene Selection function presents 

dramatic improvements to conventional workflows, such 

as when transferring material to a nonlinear editor 

and/or server, or when searching for material and/or edit 

points in linear editing systems. 

When GUI-based operation is preferred, the Scene 

Selection operation can also be performed on a PC 

running the PDZ-1 Proxy Browsing Software supplied with 

all XDCAM products, providing a visually familiar working 

environment. 

*The video and audio of a clip cannot be edited independently. 

Selectable Modes of File Recording 

XDCAM HD camcorders and the PDW-F75 deck provide 

two types of file recording modes. In standard operation, 

one clip file is created each time recording is started and 

stopped*. In the other mode, called Clip Continuous REC 

mode, which is a feature of the PDW-F335, PDW-F355, and 

PDW-F75**, one clip file can be created at the users 

discretion*. Although it is a single clip, Thumbnail Search 

operation and the Expand function are available just as 

if individual clips were created. 

Users can choose the most suitable mode depending on 

the type of application. 

*Each take needs to be longer than two seconds. 

**Available when recording is remotely controlled via an RS-442A or RS-232C 

interface, or during Trigger REC mode via an HD-SDI interface. 

Normal Mode 

REC START REC START REC START 

Clip 1 

Clip 2 Clip 3 

Clip Continuous REC Mode 

REC START REC START REC START 

Take 1 Take 2 

Clip 1 

Take 3

Other Features 

Power of Proxy Data 

– Highly Streamlined Workflows 

At the same time as recording its high-resolution video and 

audio data, the XDCAM HD products also record a 

low-resolution version of this AV data on the same disc. 

Called “Proxy Data”, this is much smaller in size than the 

high-resolution data (1.5 Mb/s for video and 0.5 Mb/s for 

audio), and its format is identical to that of the SD version of 

the XDCAM products. 

Because of its lower resolution, Proxy Data can be 

transferred to a standard PC at an amazingly high speed, 

and easily browsed and edited using the PDZ-1 Proxy 

Browsing Software (or other compatible editing 

software offered by many industry-leading manufacturers). 

What’s more, with the PDZ-1 software, it can be converted 

to the popular ASF format for playback on Windows ® Media 

Player, providing dramatic improvements in production 

workflows. Proxy Data can also be viewed directly on a PC 

without data transfer using an i.LINK (File Access Mode) 

connection, and can even be sent over a standard 

Ethernet network. 

The overall flexibility of Proxy Data means that it can be used 

for a variety of applications, such as immediate logging on 

location, off-line editing, daily rushes of shooting on location, 

client approvals, and more. 

Editing Solutions 

The XDCAM HD products are equipped with both 

conventional AV and IT-based interfaces for flexible 

integration into a wide array of editing environments. 

These interfaces* include HD-SDI, HD analog component 

video, analog/digital audio, and RS-422A 9-pin remote 

control - enabling connection to a wide variety of VTRs, 

linear and nonlinear editors, and audio mixers. 

SD interfaces**, including SD-SDI and SD analog composite, 

are also provided for down-converted SD outputs, allowing 

the XDCAM HD system to be integrated into a conventional 

SD-based editing environment as well. 

Another interface that all XDCAM** devices provide is an 

i.LINK interface that supports DV OUT and File Access Mode. 

Recordings made in both MPEG HD and DVCAM formats 

can be output as DV files via the i.LINK port, and then be 

used in many DV-based nonlinear editing systems. The i.LINK 

(File Access Mode) allows not only SD (DVCAM) files but also 

HD (MPEG HD) files to be written (recorded) onto and read 

from Professional Disc media. This allows the user to establish 

an extremely compact and affordable HD nonlinear editing 

system, for example, using an XDCAM HD camcorder and 

an i.LINK-compatible laptop PC. 

Another new, powerful, yet cost-effective option for the 

highly compact editing solution is the PDW-U1 drive unit. 

This can serve as an external drive of a PC via the common 

USB interface, and performs high-speed transfer of material 

recorded on Professional Disc media to a nonlinear editing 

system***. 

Metadata 

All XDCAM HD products are capable of recording a variety 

of metadata, which provides a huge advantage when 

searching for specific data after the initial recording has 

been made. Information such as production dates, creator 

names, and camera setup parameters can be saved 

together with the AV material on the same disc using the 

supplied PDZ-1 software. This makes it possible to organize 

and search through all recordings effectively. One 

particular metadata, called EssenceMark (Shot Mark), is a 

convenient reference that can be added to desired frames 

to make them easy to recall in subsequent editing processes. 

EssenceMark (Shot Mark 1) Display 

Easy Maintenance and High Reliability 

XDCAM HD 

The XDCAM HD products use the same platform as the 

XDCAM SD products that are in wide use around the world. 

Having the advantage of no mechanical contact 

between the equipment and recording media, both a high 

level of durability and long media life have been achieved. 

XDCAM HD products also offer the same high resistance to 

shock and vibrations provided by the SD version of the 

XDCAM products. 

Effective File-based Content Management 

File-based recording is one of 

the most important features of 

XDCAM HD products. To help manage all the content in a 

file-based workflow, Sony’s HDXchange Networked 

Content Management Server can be integrated to provide 

a seamless content management solution by interfacing 

with a wide range of production devices, such as nonlinear 

editors, playout servers, and archiving storage systems. The 

content, metadata, and Proxy Data are efficiently handled 

in the entire workflow process. 

*The supported interfaces vary by product. 

**Except on the PDW-U1. 

***Support for Macintosh OS is planned to be available in the first half of 2009. 

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XDCAM HD Camcorders 

The PDW-F355 and PDW-F335 are highly versatile and cost-effective HD camcorders 

that are equipped with three 1/2-inch-type HD CCDs, and offer HD recording in 

1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 25P, and 23.98P modes – as well as DVCAM-format recording. 

A rich variety of features useful for creative shooting are incorporated into these 

camcorders such as Interval Recording, Slow-Shutter, and Selectable Gamma Curve. 

Additionally, the PDW-F355 provides a “Slow & Quick Motion” function, which is 

also commonly known as “over-cranking” and “under-cranking”. 

Disc recording provides users with a number of benefits that are specifically useful 

during shooting. For example, because new footage is always recorded onto an 

empty area of the disc, there is no need to cue-up to the next recording position 

before shooting. This means that operators can start shooting without the worry of 

accidentally recording over existing footage. 

In short, the XDCAM HD camcorders are ideally suited to a broad array of shooting 

opportunities such as event shooting, news gathering, field productions, and indie 

productions. 

PDW-F355 PDW-F335 

PDW-F355/PDW-F335 Camcorder

■ 1/2-inch type Three HD Power HAD CCDs 

The XDCAM HD camcorders are equipped with 

three 1/2-inch-type HD Power HAD CCDs, each 

with a high density of approximately 1.56 megapixels 

(1440 x 1080). These extremely high-performance 

CCDs provide an outstanding sensitivity of F9 

(at 2000 lx, 3200K), a remarkable signal-to-noise ratio 

of 54 dB, and a low vertical smear level of -120 dB. 

■ 12-bit A/D Conversion 

The XDCAM HD camcorders incorporate a 

high-integrity 12-bit A/D conversion circuit, which 

allows images captured by the Power HAD CCDs to 

be processed with great precision. 

This high-resolution A/D conversion allows the 

contrast to be reproduced faithfully in both 

mid-to-dark tone and bright areas of the picture. 

■ Advanced Digital Signal Processing (ADSP) 

A key to quality in DSP cameras is how many bits 

are used in their nonlinear processes, such as 

gamma correction. The ADSP of the XDCAM HD 

camcorders uses more than 30 bits in nonlinear 

processes, minimizing round-off errors to maintain 

the high quality of the Power HAD CCDs. The ADSP 

also enables highly sophisticated image controls, 

such as skin tone detail control and Dynamic 

Contrast Controls. 

■ Multi-format Recording 

– HD/SD and Interlace/Progressive 

One of the big appeals of the XDCAM HD 

camcorders is their highly flexible multi-format 

recording capability. Users can select a recording 

format from HD (MPEG HD) or SD (DVCAM), 

59.94i/50i interlace mode, or 29.97P/25P/23.98P 

progressive mode. Operators can use this 

camcorder for multiple purposes, both today and 

into the future. 

■ Creative Versatility for Movie Making 

The XDCAM HD camcorders, 

part of Sony's proud CineAlta 

family, provide many creative 

features for producing a 

variety of movies. They offer the Slow & Quick 

Motion Function (PDW-F355 only) for stunningly 

impressive slow and fast motion images, and 

Selectable Gamma Curves that are inherited from 

the top-of-the-line CineAlta camcorder. The Interval 

Recording function is another tool to create unique 

ultra-fast moving images. 

Slow & Quick Motion Function (PDW-F355) 

The PDW-F355 offers a powerful Slow & Quick Motion 

Function that enables users to create elegant fast- and 

slow-motion footage – commonly known as over- and 

under-cranking in film shooting. The PDW-F355 can capture 

images at frame rates selectable from four fps (frame per 

second) to 60 fps in increments of one fps. 

For example, when viewed at 23.98P, images captured at 

four fps will appear six times faster than normal. Conversely, 

images captured at 60 fps will appear 2.5 times slower than 

normal. The quality of the slow- and fast-motion images 

created using the Sony PDW-F355 camcorder is extremely 

high and incomparable to those created in the editing 

process. Another spectacular thing about this feature is that 

users can see the results right in the camcorder’s LCD 

screen, without using any converters or processing on 

nonlinear editing systems. 

This great feature maximizes users’ shooting creativity while 

achieving a high level of overall efficiency. 

Format 

23.98P, 29.97P 

25P 

Capturing 

4P-60P in 1P increments 

4P-50P in 1P increments 

*When capturing at 31-60 fps (in 23.98P/29.97P mode)/26-50 fps 

(in 25P mode), the camcorders provide lower vertical resolution 

than in normal capturing mode. 

*This function is available when the recording mode is set to “MPEG HD”. 

Enhanced 24P Operation 

PRODUCT FEATURES 

For cinema and other high-quality production users, the new 

PDW-F355 camcorder provides enhanced 24P operations. 

Genlock video input is available for 23.98PsF signals, allowing 

multi-camera operations in 23.98P mode. It is also possible 

to output 23.98PsF signals as well as 2-3 pull-down conversion 

signals from the HD-SDI connector. 

Interval Recording Function For Versatility and 

Creativity 

The XDCAM HD camcorders offer an Interval Recording 

Function, which intermittently records signals at 

pre-determined intervals. This is convenient for shooting over 

long periods of time, and also when creating pictures with 

special effects of extremely quick motion. 

Selectable Gamma Curves 

The XDCAM HD camcorders allow operators to choose from 

five types of gamma curves (Standard, CINE 1, 2, 3 and 4). 

The CINE 1-4 gamma curves provide natural tonal 

reproductions for scenes with wide dynamic ranges. 

The CINE 1 and 2 curves are inherited from HyperGamma, 

which is available on the top-of-the-line CineAlta 

camcorder. 

CINE 1 

CINE 2 

CINE 3 

CINE 4 

Standard 

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Wide Range of Angle-based Shutter-speed Settings 

The XDCAM HD camcorders enable users to set the shutter 

speed according to angle as well as time. Users can select 

the shutter-speed setting from six pre-set values, which are 

adjustable from 4.3 to 360 degrees in very fine increments 

(see table below). This flexible shutter-speed capability 

offers a great advantage over conventional film cameras 

and allows for enhanced shooting creativity. The setting 

value is displayed in the camcorder’s viewfinder. 

Angle-based Shutter-speed Setting 

Format 

Range and step 

59.94i, 50i 

4.5 to 360 degree (approx. 0.64-degree step) 

29.97P, 23.98P, 25P 4.3 to 360 degree (approx. 0.32-degree step) 

■ A Wide Choice of Lenses 

The PDW-F335K model 

comes equipped with the 

VCL-719BXS/B servo focus 

lens. This convenient 

auto-focus lens helps 

operators to adjust the focus 

VCL-719BXS/B 

during manual-focus mode 

simply by pushing the “PUSH AF” button. 

It also provides a full-time auto-focus function that 

automatically tracks the focus in a dynamic manner. 

This is especially convenient for one-man shooting 

situations, for example, where the camera operator is 

also performing other tasks and does not have the 

capacity to alter the focus manually. 

In addition to this auto-focus lens, a variety of 1/2-inchtype 

HD lenses are separately available from major 

manufacturers to offer optimum performance of the 

XDCAM HD camcorder. 

A 2/3-inch-type lens* can also be used with the 

XDCAM HD camcorder via its lens connector and the 

optional LO-32BMT lens adaptor. 

This allows users to choose from a broad range of 

lenses, including cinema-style lenses, according to 

their particular shooting requirements. 

*In this configuration, the resulting focal length will be 1.37 times the 

actual focal length of the lens. 

LO-32BMT 

■ Low-light Shooting With ‘Slow-Shutter’ and 

‘Turbo Gain’ Functions 

Sony XDCAM HD camcorders offer two convenient 

features – Slow Shutter function and Turbo Gain 

function – for shooting in low-light conditions, which 

can be used alone or together depending on the 

situation or the operator’s preferences. 

The Slow Shutter function allows operators to use 

shutter speeds longer than the frame rate, and to 

intentionally blur images when shooting a moving 

object, for increased shooting creativity. 

The Turbo Gain function allows the camera gain to 

be boosted up to +48 dB. 

■ Picture Cache Recording 

The XDCAM HD camcorders offer a “Picture Cache 

Recording” function that is especially useful during 

ENG applications. Up to 12 seconds of audio and 

video signals are buffered into the camcorder’s 

memory before the Rec button is even pressed 

(when in Standby mode). This means that 

everything that happened 12 seconds before the 

Rec button was pressed will still be recorded onto 

disc – thereby preventing the loss of any 

unexpected, yet important events. 

■ Flexible Image Controls 

The XDCAM HD camcorders offer highly advanced 

image control features such as Skin Tone Detail and 

Dynamic Contrast Control, allowing operators to 

create stunning images. 

■ High-quality Audio Recording 

Sony XDCAM HD camcorders record high-quality 

uncompressed four-channel audio in HD recording 

mode. They are also equipped with a range of 

audio interfaces. 

■ Compact and Lightweight Body 

XDCAM HD camcorders are designed to be very 

compact, lightweight, and ergonomically well 

balanced, providing a high level of mobility and 

comfort in various shooting situations. They weigh 

only 12 lb 2 oz (5.5 kg) including viewfinder, 

microphone, disc, and BP-GL95 battery pack. 

■ Shock and Dust-resistant Disc Drive 

To minimize errors caused by shock or dust entering the 

disc drive, XDCAM HD camcorders have several unique 

ways of providing operational resistance to such 

factors. The disc drive entrance is concealed by two 

lids, helping to prevent any dust from entering the drive. 

In addition, four rubber dampers are used to hold the 

disc drive block in place and to absorb the shocks that 

would otherwise go into the disc drive. 

■ 3.5-inch* Color LCD Screen 

XDCAM HD CAMCORDER 

A large, easy-to-view, color LCD screen on the 

camcorder’s side panel enables operators to 

instantly review recorded footage, as well as access 

the camera’s set-up menus and view status 

indications such as four-channel audio meters, and 

the remaining disc and battery time. It also enables 

advanced operations such as Thumbnail Search 

and Scene Selection. 

*Viewable area measured diagonally.

■ Wide Variety of Interfaces 

The XDCAM HD camcorders come equipped with a 

wide range of interfaces as standard. The PDW-F355 

and PDW-F335 provide different combinations of 

interfaces – each optimized for various operational 

needs. 

Input 

Output 

Others 

PDW-F355 

Front stereo microphone, 

audio (2-ch), timecode, 

genlock 

HD-SDI/SD-SDI, SD analog 

composite, timecode, 

audio (XLR 5-pin) 

i.LINK 

*Timecode input and output of the PDW-F335 share the same 

connector. 

**1080/23.98P recordings are output as 1080/59.94i signals via 2-3 

pull-down conversion. 

■ Easy-to-see Viewfinder 


Front stereo microphone, 

audio (2-ch), timecode*, 

genlock 

HD analog component**/SD 

analog component (selectable), 

SD analog composite, 

timecode*, audio (Pin jack) 

i.LINK 

The PDW-F355 and the PDW-F335 are equipped with 

the DXF-20W 2.0-inch* monochrome viewfinder as 

standard. This enables convenient manual focusing 

when shooting MPEG HD footage in the 16:9 

widescreen format. 

*Viewable area measured diagonally 

■ Live & Play Function 

The PDW-F355 camcorder has a “Live & Play” 

function that can simultaneously output both 

playback signals (images already recorded) and 

incoming camera signals (images seen through the 

viewfinder). Both signals are fed to their respective 

output and viewfinder connectors independently, 

and can be viewed at the same time. This allows 

users to frame the next shot, adjust the exposure, 

and even focus the lens while the camcorder is 

playing back recordings from the disc. 

Application Example at News Gathering 

Camera Reporter 

Switchable 

Pre-recorded Materials in Disc 

■ Affordable MPEG TS Option for Field and 

Satellite Transmission 

The HDCA-702 MPEG TS Adaptor, which connects to 

the PDW-F355 camcorder via HD-SDI, transmits an 

MPEG Transport Stream (TS) of MPEG HD420 (1440 x 

1080i) for either 1080i or 720P via DVB-ASI output. This 

can be done simultaneously as the PDW-F355 

records onto disc. The bit rate is selectable from 

17.25 Mb/s to 43.25 Mb/s, which is suitable for 

material transmissions using microwave and satellite 

modulators. When the bit rate is 35 Mb/s or higher, 

the 1920 x 1080i mode can be selected. 

■ Noise Reducing Mode 


The XDCAM HD camcorders incorporate a 

noise-reducing mode to reproduce low-light scenes 

clearly. 

11

12 

■ Other Camcorder Features 

• Built-in ND filter wheel: Clear, 1/4ND, 1/16ND, 1/64ND 

• Down-conversion output: MPEG HD playback can be 

converted to SD signals and output via the SD 

composite, component*, or i.LINK (DV OUT) connector 

• Freeze Mix function: superimposes a previously 

recorded image on the viewfinder. This allows the 

operator to quickly and easily frame or reposition a 

subject when a shot must be taken from the same 

position or in the same framework as a previous take 

• Thumbnail Search operation 

• Expand function 

• Scene Selection function for in-camera cuts-only editing** 

• Ability to write EDL (the result of the Scene Selection) 

back onto disc 

• Proxy Data recording 

• Four assignable buttons: two on the camera handle 

and two on the inside panel, which enable operators 

to assign frequently used functions 

Top view 

XDCAM HD CAMCORDER 

• Auto Tracing White Balance for automatic adjustments in 

camera color temperature according to lighting 

changes 

• Memory Stick and Memory Stick Pro media function 

(up to 2 GB): for storage of camcorder setup files 

• Metadata recording: UMID, Extended UMID, Essence 

Mark (Shot Mark) 

• Sony WRR-855 Series Wireless Microphone Receiver 

can be easily attached to the camcorder via the 

optional CA-WR855 adaptor 

• Remote control operation via the Sony RM-B150 and 

RM-B750 remote control units 

• Intelligent light system synchronizes strobe on/off to 

the REC button 

• Four types of software supplied***: PDZ-1 Proxy 

Browsing Software, PDZ-VX10 XDCAM Viewer Software, 

Proxy Viewer Software, and PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer 

Software (for use with Apple Final Cut Pro software) 

*SD component output is only available on the PDW-F335. 

**The video and audio cannot be edited independently. 

***The latest versions of software can be downloaded from the Sony 

Website. Please contact your nearest Sony office for details. 

Connector Panel (PDW-F355) 

Connector Panel (PDW-F335) 

Side 

Rear 

Side 

Rear

Camcorder System Diagrams 

1/2-inch Type Lens 

2/3-inch Type Lens 

VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor 

(supplied) 

Recording Media 

PFD23A 

(supplied, x1) 

PFD50DLA 

Battery Chargers 

BC-L70 

BC-L160 

BC-L500 

Memory Stick media 

Memory Stick Pro Media 

(up to 2GB) 

ECM-674/678/680S 

Electric Condenser Microphone 

ECM-674/678 require K-1502 3-pin 

to 5-pin Conversion Cable 

8-pin 

LO-32BMT 

2/3-inch Type 

Lens Mount Adaptor 

Intelligent Light System 

BP-GL95/GL65 

Lithium Ion Battery Pack 

BP-L60S/L80S 

Lithium Ion Battery Pack 

AC-DN10 AC Adaptor 

RM-B150 

or 

PDW-F355/F335 

CA-WR855 

Camera Adaptor 

DXF-20W 

(supplied with PDW-F355/F335) 


Unless specified as "supplied", all the components below are optional. 

Viewfinder 

or 

RM-B750 

Remote Control Unit 

WRR-855S 

Wireless 

Microphone Receiver* 

*WRR-861 or WRR-862 Series of 

wireless microphone receiver can 

also be used. (requires A-8278- 

057-B bracket) 

HD-SDI/SD-SDI (PDW-F355) 

HD/SD Analog Component (PDW-F335) 

SD Analog Composite (PDW-F355/F335) 

i.LINK (PDW-F355/F335) 

DXF-51 (optional) 

13

14 

XDCAM HD Decks / Drive / Cart 

PDW-F75 Recording Deck / PDW-U1 Drive Unit 

The XDCAM HD deck is highly versatile, and can be used for many different applications 

including HD video recording, linear/nonlinear editing, and presentations at large 

exhibition or conference venues. 

The PDW-F75 is a powerful recording deck that is equipped with a comprehensive range 

of interfaces including HD-SDI input and output, HD analog component, composite outputs, and more. 

It can record in both MPEG HD and DVCAM formats* for recording flexibility. What's more, the PDW-F75 

can handle the new PFD50DLA dual layer disc and the PFD23A disc, achieving a long recording time of 

approximately 4.5 hours for HD recording. The PDW-F75 also offers the capability to input and output a 

25-Mb/s HDV stream (MPEG-2 TS) for interfacing with HDV products or HDV-based nonlinear editors via 

their i.LINK port**. 

The PDW-F75 is equipped with a VTR-like jog dial, providing familiar and fast control of the playback. In 

addition to the random-access capability, “Thumbnail Search”, “Expand”, and “Scene Selection” 

functions significantly increase operational efficiency. 

*Possible from inputs via the SD-SDI or SD analog composite interfaces, which require the optional PDBK-104 board. 

**Requires the optional PDBK-102 board. 

PDW-F75

PDW-F75 Features 

■ MPEG HD recording at 35, 25, and 18 Mb/s 

via HD-SDI, HD analog component, 

and RGB input (HD analog component 

and RGB input requires the optional 

PDBK-103 board) 

■ Up-conversion recording (requires the 

optional PDBK-104 board): Input from 

SD-SDI or SD composite connectors can 

be recorded in the MPEG HD format 

■ Playback of MPEG HD and DVCAM 

PDJ-A640 

material 

■ Down-conversion output: MPEG HD playback can be 

converted to SD signals and output via the SD-SDI, SD 

composite, and i.LINK (DV OUT) connectors. 

■ Up-conversion output: DVCAM playback can be 

converted to 1080i HD signals and output via the 

HD connectors. 

■ Recording in the DVCAM format from input via the 

SD-SDI or SD analog composite interfaces (which 

require the optional PDBK-104 board) 

■ Compatible with the PDJ-A640 Cart* 1 

■ Handles both the new dual-layer disc (PFD50DLA) 

and single-layer disc (PFD23A) 

■ Three types of picture output modes are supported: 

Edge crop, Squeeze, and Letterbox (16:9/14:9/13:9), 

as well as down-conversion output 

■ Thumbnail Search operation 

■ Expand function 

■ Scene Selection function for in-deck cuts-only editing* 2 

■ 16:9, 3.5-inch* 3 

color LCD screen for displaying 

playback pictures, audio monitors, timecode and 

setup menus 

■ Equipped with a Jog/Shuttle dial, providing VTR-like 

operation — Jog/Variable: -1 to +2 times normal 

speed, Shuttle: ±20 times normal speed 

■ Trigger REC function (synchronized recording 

with compatible camcorders* 4 

via an HD-SDI 

input) 

■ Clip Continuous REC mode* 5 

■ Repeat playback function 

■ A simple Remote Commander unit is supplied. 

■ Gigabit Ethernet capability for network-based file transfer 

(requires the optional PDBK-101 board) 

■ Input and output 25 Mb/s HDV stream (MPEG-2 TS) for 

interfacing with HDV products or HDV-based nonlinear 

editor via an i.LINK port (requires the optional PDBK-102 

board) 

■ Compact and lightweight design; can be placed either 

horizontally or vertically 

■ Four types of software supplied* 6 

: PDZ-1 Proxy Browsing 

Software, PDZ-VX10 XDCAM Viewer Software, Proxy 

Viewer Software and PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer Software 

(for Apple Final Cut Pro) 

*1: Requires the optional PDBK-A640 cart mount kit 

*2: The video and audio cannot be edited independently. 

*3: Viewable area measured diagonally. 

*4: HDW-730/750 series, HDW-790, and HDW-F900R HDCAM camcorders. 

*5: Available when recording is remotely controlled via RS-442A or RS-232C 

interface, or during Trigger REC mode via an HD-SDI interface. 

*6: The latest versions of software can be downloaded from the Sony Website. 

Please contact your nearest Sony office for details. 

Interface Options 


Four types of optional boards are available for the deck: 

• PDBK-101: Provides a Gigabit Ethernet Interface with the 


• PDBK-102*: Allows 25 Mb/s HDV stream (MPEG-2 TS) to be 

input and output between the PDW-F75 deck and an 

HDV device 

• PDBK-103*: Provides the HD analog component and RGB 

inputs with the PDW-F75 (these inputs share the same 

BNC connectors) 

• PDBK-104*: Provides the SD-SDI and SD composite input 

with the PDW-F75 

*Only one of the PDBK-102, PDBK-103 or PDBK-104 boards can be installed at 

any one time. 

15

Inputs/Outputs 

Input 

Outpuat 

Others 

16 

HD-SDI 

HD analog component 

RGB 

SD-SDI 

SD analog composite 

Digital audio 

Analog audio 

Timecode 

Reference 

HD-SDI 

HD analog component ** 

RGB 

SD-SDI 

SD analog composite 

Digital audio 

Analog audio 

Audio monitor 

Timecode 

i.LINK (DV OUT) 

i.LINK (File Access Mode) 

i.LINK (HDV) 

Ethernet 

Remote 


● 

● w/PDBK-103 

● w/PDBK-103 

● w/PDBK-104 

● w/PDBK-104 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● 

●* 

●* 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● w/PDBK-102 

● w/PDBK-101 

RS-422, RS-232C 

*HD analog component and RGB outputs share the same 

D-Sub 15-pin connector. 

**1080/23.98P recordings are output as1080/59.94i signals via 2-3 

pull-down conversion. 



PRODUCT FEATURES


The PDW-U1* is a new, powerful addition to the XDCAM HD lineup, 

which offers a compact, mobile, and highly cost-effective solution 

for many different applications. 

It serves as an external drive connected via a common USB 

interface, and enables material recorded on Professional Disc 

media to be viewed directly on a PC. The PDW-U1 can also be 

used as a source feeder for nonlinear editing systems. 

One of the most distinguished features of the PDW-U1 is its 

capability to handle both XDCAM HD and SD discs, providing a 

high level of versatility and cost-efficiency. 

Its compact and lightweight design makes it equally ideal for field 

and in-house desktop uses. 

■ Handles files in XDCAM HD and SD formats 

■ Handles both the new dual-layer disc (PFD50DLA) and single-layer disc 

(PFD23A) 

■ Supports the Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) interface - compatible with most PCs 

■ Direct access to files on Professional Disc media from a USB-connected PC 

■ High-speed file transfers with the newly developed optical drive 

■ Material browsing on the supplied PDZ-VX10 XDCAM Viewer software** and 

PDZ-1 Proxy Browsing software** 

■ Highly compact and lightweight 

■ Dimensions (W x H x D): 2 3/8 x 6 1/2 x 9 inches (59 x 164 x 226 mm) 

■ Weight: 3 lb 1 oz (1.4 kg) 

■ Can be operated either horizontally or vertically 

*Support for Macintosh ® OS is planned to be available in the first half of 2009. 

** The latest versions of software can be downloaded from the Sony Website. Please contact your 

nearest Sony office for details. 

Power requirements 

Power consumption 

Operating temperature 

Strage temperature 

Humidity 

Weight 

Dimensions 

Recording 

/playback format 

Interfaces 

Supplied accessories 

Video 

Proxy Video 

Audio 

Proxy Audio 


DC 12 V 

10 W 

+41 to +104 °F (5 to 40 °C) 

-4 to +140 °F (-20 to +60 °C) 

20 to 90% (relative humidity) 

3 lb 1 oz (1.4 kg) 

2 3/8 x 6 1/2 x 9 inches (59 x 164 x 226 mm) 

MPEG HD422 (50 Mb/s) 

MPEG HD (35/25/18 Mb/s) 

MPEG IMX (50/40/30 Mb/s) 

DVCAM (25 Mb/s) 

MPEG-4 

MPEG HD422: 8 ch/24 bits/48 kHz 

MPEG HD: 4/2 ch/16 bits/48 kHz 

MPEG IMX: 8 ch/16 bit/48 kHz, or 4 ch/24 bit/48 kHz 

DVCAM: 4 ch/16 bit/48 kHz 

A-law (8/4/2 ch/8 bit/8 kHz) 

Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) x 1 

Operation manual (x 1) 

PDZ-1 Proxy Browsing Software (x 1) 

PDZ-VX10 XDCAM Viewer Software (x 1) 

PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer Software (x 1) 

XDCAM Drive Software (x 1) 

PDW-U1 Drive Unit 

XDCAM HD 

17

XDCAM Application Software 

All XDCAM HD products come with a variety of free application software packages 

that maximize the benefits of the XDCAM’s disc- and file-based operations. 

■ PDZ-1 

The PDZ-1 software is a simple-to-use PC application that allows users to easily browse and 

storyboard video clips recorded by an XDCAM system. It runs on Windows-based PCs and supports three 

types of interfaces: i.LINK (File Access Mode), Ethernet, and USB (only for connection with the PDW-U1). 

Once Proxy Data recorded on a Professional Disc media is transferred to a PC with the PDZ-1 

software installed, users can conveniently view and storyboard recorded footage right on the PC. 

The PDZ-1 software also provides a variety of convenient tools for disc operations such as entire or 

partial disc copy (dubbing), and transfer between two XDCAM devices. 

Storyboarding on a PC not only allows users to preview their edited sequences instantly, it also 

provides other powerful benefits such as the creation of ASF files (playable on Windows Media 

Player) and EDL data in various EDL formats, plus the transfer of high-resolution clips selected in the 

edited sequence. 

PDZ-1 Features 

■ Supported interfaces: i.LINK (File Access Mode), Ethernet, and USB 

(only for connection with the PDW-U1) 

■ High-speed ingestion of Proxy Data from the XDCAM devices 

■ Browsing of Proxy Data recorded by the XDCAM systems (including 

those recorded by the SD version of the XDCAM system) 

■ Simple and quick cuts-only editing (storyboarding)* with the 

following fuctions; 

• Preview a result of the storyboard on the PC 

• Save the results as a Clip List (XDCAM EDL) 

• Convert the Proxy Data on the storyboard to an ASF file for 

replay on Windows Media Player 

• Export the Clip List in AAF, BVE-9100, NewsBase XML, and ALE 

(Avid Log Exchange) formats 

• Transfer high-resolution clips according to the Clip List 

■ Disc copy – entire disc (all clips) or only selected clips 

■ Transfer selected clips with margins at the head and tail of the 

clips 

■ Registration of metadata such as “title”, “creator”, or “comments” 

for a disc or clip 

■ Registration of “Essence Mark” metadata for instant cue-up to 

desired scenes. Names for the Essence Mark can also be easily 

assigned 

■ Automatic renaming of clips by predetermined rule 

(use-predetermined prefix plus sequential numbers) 

■ Clip search function using the registered metadata as a keyword 

■ Print function allows metadata such as thumbnails, creation date, 

and comments to be printed out in an easy-to-see storyboard view 

18 

*The video and audio of a clip cannot be edited independently. 

PDZ-1 Main GUI 

Print Function 

XDCAM HD 

System Requirements 

OS: Windows XP (SP2 or later) 

Windows Vista Business 32bit/Ultimate 32bit 

CPU: Pentium M Processor or higher 

NOTE:When using Live Logging Mode, recommended CPU is 

Pentium4 2GHz or higher 

RAM: 512 MB or more 

Others: Internet Explorer 6.0 (SP1 or later), DirectX 8.1b or later

■ PDZ-VX10 Sony XDCAM Viewer 

The PDZ-VX10 software allows users to view 

high-resolution and Proxy MXF files recorded by 

XDCAM systems on their PC. With this software 

installed, thumbnails for all clips can be displayed 

in Windows Explorer, enabling the contents of the 

disc to be scanned through easily and quickly. 


OS: Windows XP (SP2 or later), Windows Vista Business 32bit/Ultimate 32bit 

CPU: Intel Core Duo processor 1.83GHz or higher or Intel Pentium4 3GHz or higher 

Recommend to use Intel Core 2 Duo 2.6GHz or higher for HD422 50M playback 

RAM: 1 GB or more 

Others: Internet Explorer 6.0 (SP1 or later), DirectX 9.0c or later 

■ Proxy Viewer 

■ PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer for Apple Final Cut Pro nonlinear editing systems 

The PDZK-P1 XDCAM Transfer is plug-in software for Apple Final Cut Pro nonlinear editing systems 

that provides native support for MXF files recorded by XDCAM systems. With this software installed, 

XDCAM devices can be mounted on Mac Finder via a FireWire/i.LINK connection, and users can 

seamlessly import, edit, and export recorded material. 


OS: 

Mac OS X version Tiger 10.4.11 or later 

Mac OS X version Leopard 10.5 or later 

CPU: PowerPC G5 2GHz, 

Intel Core2Duo 2GHz, Intel Xeon 2GHz 

or higher 

Others: QuickTime version Ver7.3.1 or 

later Final Cut Pro version 6.0.3 or later 

XDCAM HD 

The Proxy Viewer is a simple application to play 

back Proxy Data on a PC. 


OS: Windows XP (SP2 or later), Windows Vista Business 32bit/Ultimate 32bit 

CPU: Pentium M Processor or higher 

RAM: 512 MB or more 

Others: Internet Explorer 6.0 (SP1 or later), DirectX 8.1b or later 

The latest versions of software can be downloaded from the Sony Website. 

Please go to www.sony.com/XDCAM 

19

PDJ-A640 Cart Features 

The PDJ-A640 is an automated robotic cart system ideal for multidisc 

ingesting, archiving, and on-air operations. It accommodates 

up to four PDW-F75* decks and up to 640 discs. The PDW-1500 

deck in the SD version of the XDCAM lineup can also be installed 

in the PDJ-A640 cart. 

This cart system is equipped with a standard VCC control protocol, 

allowing easy integration into existing systems. The total storage 

capacity is 15 Terabytes using 640 discs. PDJ-CS10 Cart Interface 

Software allows third-party applications to transfer files from the 

cart over the network, without controlling the cart’s robotics 

or decks. 

With the XDCAM’s file-based operations and metadata capability, 

as well as the reliability, long life and small physical size of the 

Professional Disc media, this system provides significant 

operational benefits, greater reliability, reduced operational costs, 

and space-saving benefits compared to tape-based systems. 

*Requires the optional PDBK-A640 cart mount kit. 

■ Ideal for multi-disc ingesting, archiving, and on-air playout applications 

■ Equipped with VCC protocol (RS-422 or RS-232C) 

■ Equipped with a barcode reader unit 

■ PDJ-CS10 Cart Interface Software allows third-party applications to 

20 

transfer files from the cart over the network, without controlling the cart’s 

robotics or decks. 

■ High reliability and low-cost maintenance 

PDJ-A640 connector panel 

PDJ-A640 with two PDW-F75 decks 

and two PDW-1500 decks installed 

XDCAM HD

XDCAM HD Workflow 

Acquisition 




Ingest Edit 


PC 

Ethernet 

Nonlinear Editors 

HDXchange 

Content Management Server 

Shared Storage & Content Management 

XDCAM Transfer Operation 



PDW-F355 with HDCA-702 Modulator 

Playout Archive 


PC-based 

Playout System 

Playout Server 

i.LINK Ethernet 

DVB-ASI 

Cuts-only-edit 

Metadata Edit 

by PDZ-1 

Disc Delivery 

Network Transfer 

PDJ-A640 Shelf 

Real-time Microwave Transmission 

XDCAM HD 

PetaSite Tape Robotics 

21

Optional Accessories 

For PDW-F355/F335 Camcorders 

PFD23A 

Single Layer Professional 

Disc Media 

BP-L60S/L80S 

Lithium-ion Battery Pack 

RM-B150 


WRR-862B 

Wireless Microphone Receiver 

*Requires optional mounting 

bracket (A-8278-057-A) 

HDCA-702 

MPEG TS Adaptor 

22 

PFD50DLA 

Dual Layer Professional 

Disc Media 

BC-L70 

Battery Charger 

RM-B750 


ECM-674/678 

Shotgun-type Electret 

Condenser Microphone 

*Requires K-1502 3-pin to 

5-pin Conversion Cable 

LO-32BMT 

2/3-inch Lens Mount Adaptor 

BC-L160 


CA-WR855S 

Camera Adaptor for 

WRR-855S 

ECM-680S 

Shotgun-type Electret 

Condenser Microphone 

DXF-51 

5-inch type B/W Viewfinder 

*Requires optional accessory 

shoe kit (A-8274-968-B) 

BC-L500 


WRR-855S 


LC-424TH 

Carrying Case (Hard) 

BP-GL95/GL65 

Lithium-ion Battery Pack 

AC-DN10 

AC Adaptor 

WRR-861B 


*Requires optional mounting 

bracket (A-8278-057-A) 

LC-400BP 

Carrying Case (Soft) 

XDCAM HD

1/2-inch Type HD Lenses From Other Manufacturers 

Canon 

KH21ex5.7 IRSE 

Fujinon 

XS17x5.5BRM/BRD 

* For details, please contact each manufacturer. 

For PDW-F75 Deck 

PFD23A 

Single Layer Professional 

Disc Media 

PDBK-104 

SD Input Upconverter Board* 

LCP-DNF70 

Carrying Case (Hard) 

Canon 


Fujinon 

XS13x3.3BRM/BRD 

PFD50DLA 

Dual Layer Professional 

Disc Media 

PDBK-A640 

Cart Mount Kit (for PDW-F75) 

Canon 


Fujinon 

HS18x5.5BERM/BERD 

PDBK-101 

Network Board 

RM-280 

Editing Controller 

*Only one of the PDBK-102, PDBK-103 or PDBK-104 boards can be installed at any one time. 

Canon 

KH20x6.4 KRS 

Fujinon 

HS16x4.6BERM/BERD 

PDBK-102 

MPEG-2 TS In/Out Board* 

RCC-5G 

Remote Control Cable (5 m) 

XDCAM HD 

Canon 

KH13x4.5 KRS 

PDBK-103 

HD Analog Input Board* 

RMM-F7030 

Rack Mount Kit 

23

XDCAM HD Camcorder Specifications 

General 

Signal inputs 

Signal outputs 

Other inputs/outputs 

Audio performance 

Camera section 

Viewfinder 

Built-in LCD monitor 


Weight 




Storage temperature 

Humidity 

Continuous operating time 

Recording format 

Recording/Playback time 

(approx) 

Video 

Proxy Video 

Audio 

Proxy Audio 

Genlock video 

Audio input 

Mic input 

SDI output 

Component (HD/SD analog) video output 

Composite video output 

Earphone 

Audio output (CH-1/CH-2) 

Timecode input 

Timecode output 

Lens 

Remote 

Light 

DC input 

DC output 

i.LINK 

Frequency response 

Dynamic range 

Distortion 

Crosstalk 

Wow & flutter 

Headroom 

Pickup device 

Effective picture elements 

Optical system 

Built-in optical filters 

59.94i 

29.97P 

Shutter speed (time) 

23.98P 

50i 

25P 

59.94i, 50i 

Shutter speed (angle) 

29.97P, 23.98P, 25P 

Slow Shutter (SLS) 

Slow & Quick Motion function 

(MPEG HD mode only) 

Lens mount 

Sensitivity (2000 lx, 89.9% reflectance) 

Minimum illumination 

Gain selection 

Smear level 

S/N ratio 

Modulation depth at 21 MHz 

Geometric distortion 

CRT 

Indicators 

*HD-SDI output and SD-SDI output share the same connector. 

24 

DVCAM 

MPEG HD: 




23.98P, 29.97P 

25P 

PDW-F355L PDW-F335L 

Approx. 8 lb 6 oz (body, 3.9 kg) 

Approx. 8 lb 10 oz (body, 3.9 kg) Approx. 6.8 kg (with VF, Mic, Disc, BP-GL95 

battery, VCL-719BXS/B AF Lens) 

DC 12 V +5.0 V/-1.0 V 

Approx. 34 W (while recording, with 

viewfinder, color LCD ON, manual lense) 

XLR-5-pin (Female, stereo) x1 

HD-SDI: SMPTE 292M (w/embedded audio) 

SD-SDI: SMPTE 259M (w/embedded audio) 

_ 

BNC x1, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω 

Mini-jack x1 (stereo) 

XLR-5-pin (Male, stereo) x1 

BNC x1, 0.5 to 18 Vp-p, 10 Ω 

BNC x1, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω 

PDW-F335L (with manual focus lens) : 

Approx. 30 W 

+23 to +104 °F (-5 to +40 °C) 

-4 to +140 °F (-20 to +60 °C) 


Approx. 150 min. w/BP-GL95 battery Approx. 160 min. w/BP-GL95 battery 

MPEG HD (MPEG-2 MP@HL): 

HQ mode (VBR, maximum bit rate : 35 Mb/s), 

SP mode (CBR, 25 Mb/s), 

LP mode (VBR, maximum bit rate : 18 Mb/s), 

DVCAM (CBR, 25 Mb/s) 

MPEG4 

MPEG HD: 4 ch or 2 ch, 16 bits/48 kHz 

DVCAM: 4 ch, 16 bits/48 kHz 

A-law (4 ch/2 ch, 8 bit, 8 kHz) 



145 minutes(4-ch audio) 65 minutes(4-ch audio) 






BNC x1, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω 

XLR-3pin (Female) x2, line / mic / mic +48 V selectable 

BNC x1* 

12-pin or 14-pin type hot-shoe 

8-pin 

2-pin, DC 12 V, max. 50 W 

XLR-4-pin (Male) x1 

4-pin (for wireless microphone receiver), DC 12 V (MAX 0.2 A) 

IEEE 1394, 6-pin x1, AV/C (DV stream output) or File Access Mode 

20 Hz to 20 kHz, +0.5 dB/-1.0 dB 

More than 85 dB 

Less than 0.08% (at 1 kHz, reference level) 

Less than -70 dB (at 1 kHz, reference level) 

Below measurable limit 

20/18/16/12 dB (selectable) 

3-chip 1/2-inch type HD Power HAD CCD 

Approx. 1.56 Mega Pixels (1,440 x 1,080) 

F1.4 prism 

1: Clear, 2: 1/4ND, 3: 1/16ND, 4: 1/64ND 

1/100, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500 ,1/1000, 1/2000, ECS, SLS 

1/40, 1/60, 1/120, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, ECS, SLS 

1/32, 1/48, 1/96, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, ECS 

1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, ECS, SLS 

1/33, 1/50, 1/100, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, ECS, SLS 



1 to 8, 16, 32, and 64 frame accumulation_ 

Selectable from 4 to 60 frame/sec 

as recording frame rate 

Selectable from 4 to 50 frame/sec 

as recording frame rate 

SONY 1/2-inch type bayonet mount 

F9 (typical) 

Approx. 0.004 lx (F1.4 lens, +48 dB turbo gain, with 64 frame accumulation) 

-3, 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, 48 dB 

-120 dB (typical) 

54 dB (typical, HD output) 

45% (typical) 

Below measurable level (w/o lens) 

2.0-inch type monochrome 

REC (x2), TALLY, BATT, SHUTTER, GAIN UP 

3.5-inch type color LCD monitor 

DXF-20W Viewfinder (x1) 

DXF-20W Viewfinder (x 1), Electret condenser stereo microphone (x 1), 

Lens mount cap (x 1), Shoulder belt (x 1), VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor (x 1), 

Frange focal length adjustment test chart (x 1), Operation manual (x 1), 

XDCAM Application Software CD-ROM (x 1), Professional Disc PFD23A (x 1) 

_ 

_ 

XDCAM HD 

BNC x3, Y/Pb/Pr, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω 

Pin-jacks x2, -10 dBu, 47 Ω 

BNC x1 (input or output, selectable), 

(input: 0.5 to 18 Vp-p, 10 kΩ, output: 1.0 

Vp-p, 75 Ω)

XDCAM HD Deck Specifications 

General 

Signal inputs 

Signal outputs 

Other inputs/outputs 

Video performance 

Processor adjustment 

range 

Audio performance 





Storage temperature 

Humidity 

Weight 

Dimensions (W x H x D) 

Recording format 

Playback format 

Recording/playback time 

(approx) 

Search speed (in color) 

Analog reference input 

Video 

Proxy Video 

Audio 

Proxy Audio 

Video 

Proxy Video 

Audio 

Proxy Audio 

DVCAM 

MPEG HD: 




Jog mode 

Variable Speed 

mode 

Shuttle mode 

Analog composite input (option: PDBK-104) 

Analog HD component input (option: PDBK-103) 

HD-SDI input 

SD-SDI input (option: PDBK-104) 

Analog audio input 

Digital audio input 

Timecode input 

Analog composite video output 

Monitor output 

Built-in display 

HD-SDI output 

SD-SDI output 

Analog audio output 

Audio monitor output 

Headphone output 

Digital audio output 

Timecode output 

i.LINK 

i.LINK(HDV 1080i) (option: PDBK-102) 

Ethernet (option: PDBK-101) 

RS-422A 

RS-232C 

CONTROL 

Sampling frequency 

Quantization 

Analog composite output(DV) 

Video level 

Chroma level 

Set up/black level 

Chroma phase 

System sync phase 

System sync phase (fine) 

Sampling frequency 

Quantization 

Frequency response 

Dynamic range 

Distortion 

Headroom 

*Only one of the PDBK-102, PDBK-103 or PBDK-104 boards can be installed at any one time. 

PDW-F75 Recorder 

100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz 

70 W 

+41 to +104 °F (+5 to +40 °C) 

-4 to +140 °F (-20 to +60 °C) 


15 lb 6 oz (7.2 kg) 

12 1/8 x 4 x 16 1/2 inches (307 x 100 x 411 mm) 

XDCAM HD 

MPEG HD (MPEG-2 MP@HL) 

HQ mode (VBR,maximum bit rate : 35 Mb/s), 

SP mode (CBR, 25 Mb/s), 

LP mode (VBR, maximum bit rate : 18 Mb/s) 

DVCAM (CBR,25 Mb/s) (Option: PDBK-104) 

MPEG-4 


DVCAM: 4 ch, 16 bit/48 kHz 


MPEG HD (MPEG-2 MP@HL): HQ mode (VBR, maximum bit rate : 35 Mb/s), 

SP mode (CBR,25 Mb/s),LP mode (VBR,maximum bit rate : 18 Mb/s),DVCAM (CBR,25 Mb/s) 

MPEG-4 


DVCAM: 4 ch, 16 bit/48 kHz 










-1 to +2 times normal speed 

-1 to +2 times normal speed 

±20 times normal speed 

BNC x2(including loop through), 

HD Tri-level sync or SD composite sync 

(0.3 Vp-p/75 Ω/sync negative) 

BNC x1, RS-170M 

BNC x4, Y/Pb/Pr/(Sync) or G/B/R/(Sync) 

BNC x1, SMPTE 292M 


XLR x2 (channel selectable), +4/0/-3/-6 

dBu (selectable),10 kΩ, balanced 

AES/EBU, BNC x2, 4 channels 

BNC x1, SMPTE Timecode 

BNC x1, (1.0 Vp-p/75 Ω/sync negative) RCA-pin x1,(1.0 Vp-p/75 Ω/sync negative) 

D-sub 15-pin (G/B/R or Y/Pb/Pr) 

3.5-inch type color LCD monitor 



XLR x2 (channel selectable), +4/0/-3/-6 dBu (selectable), 600 Ω load, balanced 

RCA x2 (L, R, Mix), -6dBu, 47 kΩ, unbalanced 

Stereo phone jack, -14dBu, 8 Ω, unbalanced 

AES/EBU, BNC x2, 4 channels 

BNC x1, SMPTE Timecode 

IEEE1394, 6-pin x1, AV/C (DV stream output) or File Access Mode 

IEEE1394, 6-pin x1, HDV 1080i IN/OUT 

1000Base-T (RJ-45) 

D-sub 9-pin x 1 

D-sub 9-pin x 1 

Mini-jack 4-pin 

Y: 74.25 MHz, R-Y/B-Y: 37.125 MHz 

8 bits/sample 

Frequency response : 0 to 4.2 MHz +1.0/-3.0 dB (525), 0 to 4.8 MHz +1.0/-3.0 dB (625) 

S/N(Y) : 53 dB or more, Y/C delay : ±25 ns or less, K-factor(K2T) : 2% or less 

±3 dB 

±3 dB 

±30 IRE 

±30 deg 

±3 µs 

±200 ns 

48 kHz 

16 bits/2 channels or 16 bits/4 channels 

20 Hz to 20 kHz +0.5/-1.0 dB(0 dB at 1 kHz) 

90 dB or more 

0.05% or less (at 1 kHz) 

20/18/16/12 dB (selectable) 

Operation manual (x 1), Vertical installation stand (x 1), 

Infrared remote commander (x 1), XDCAM Application Software CD-ROM (x 1) 

25

Sony Electronics Inc. 

1 Sony Drive 

Park Ridge, NJ 07656 

www.sony.com/XDCAM 

V-2383-A (MK10311V5) 

© 2009 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. 

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. 

Features and specifications are subject to change without notice. 

All non-metric weights and measurements are approximate. 

Sony, XDCAM, Professional Disc, CineAlta, HDCAM, DVCAM, 

EssenceMark, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, NewsBase, Remote Commander, 

Power HAD and i.LINK are trademarks of Sony. 

HDV is a trademark of Sony Corporation and Victor Company of Japan, Limited. 

Apple, Final Cut Pro, FireWire and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer Inc. 

Windows and Windows Vista are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation Inc. 

Printed in USA (2/09)

PDW-F75 - Sony

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