The Sony PDW330 XDCAM HD Camcorder provides the durability and reliability professionals have become accustomed to with their full line of ENG camcorders, while adding many new features. What sets the XDCAM HD line apart from other cameras is the ability to shoot high quality high definition video at manageable bitrates. Equipped with three 1/2" HD CCDs, the PDWF330 is capable of recording a 1080i stream at different frame rates and bit rates, giving the user increased versatility to choose between quality and runtime. The XDCAM takes recording to the next level, utilizing non-linear optical Blue Laser technology. Less time logging, capturing and digitizing footage allows videographers to move seamlessly between acquisition and post-production. This increase in efficiency will result in shorter production times leading to higher profitability.

Blue Laser Optical Drive Technology
The XDCAM HD series is anchored by Blue Laser disc, which allows for storage capabilities large enough to record professional quality video. Optical discs gives operators more control of the footage they acquire. This can be useful in instances such as news gathering, where footage often goes direct-to-broadcast. The hassle of rolling through tape is eliminated. Optical recording provides users with the advantages of non-linear work-flow combined the long record times that are necessary in the field, while providing an immediate HD archive.
Advanced Video Chip Technology
The camera uses advanced CCD technology. The Power HAD HD (1440x1080) CCDs have specifications that approach the very highest quality FIT chips found in top-tier equipment such as those used in HDTV production. The camera has an amazing 54 dB signal to noise ratio and smear level of -120 dB. The dynamic range of the camera makes it possible to control critical details in both the very brightest and lowest lighted portions of a scene.
High Definition At Your Fingertips
The PDW330 has a wide array of high definition frame rates and bit-rates to choose from, using the MPEG HD codec, based on the commonly used MPEG compression technique. Choose between the highest 35 Mbps bit rate for highest possible quality, or use 25 and 18 Mbps when longer run times are needed. The camera can shoot up to 120 minutes of high definition footage to one 23GB Blue Laser Disc.
DVCAM Downconvertion and iLINK
Footage can be recorded in HD mode and then downconverted to DVCAM, and then output through iLINK to any non-linear editing system for high performance and compatibility.
Progressive Recording
The PDW330 has the ability to record in progressive mode, which enhances image quality and can provide a more 'film-like' image. The camera can switch between standard (30 fps) and 24P modes. The 24P mode gives video the look and shutter of film, which is conventionally shot at 24 frames per second.
Loop Recording
Camera Operators often find themselves missing the first few seconds of action due to camera preroll. With the XDCAM this becomes a thing of the past! Simply set the camera to the Loop Recording mode and the camera will buffer 10 seconds of audio and video into the camera's memory. This capability can help prevent the loss of unexpected but important events occurring before the operator even has the chance to press the REC button.
Thumbnail Scene Selection
Blue Laser disc technology allows for quick and easy scene selection using Sony's attached LCD. Bringing up clips couldn't be any easier. Randomly access clips and review them seamlessly. Retrieve and save meta-data which can be very useful for scene matching and archiving purposes.

Providing a stunning array of features, the PDW-F330 is designed to get the best out of every shoot. This Sony professional camcorder has been designed to provide the very best features at the very best price - there's no need to compromise on quality, functionality or results!

XDCAM HD Camcorders incorporate three HD-native, 16:9/4:3 switchable 1/2-inch CCDs, offering outstanding-quality images with a low smear level and a high signal-to-noise ratio.

Even when recording in MPEG HD, XDCAM HD camcorders output a real-time SD signal via i.LINK DV out and composite out, further enhancing versatility and operational compatibility (e.g. with monitors or recording equipment on location.)

The PDW-F330K is supplied with the world's first High Definition half-inch lens with both manual and auto-focus capability. It was specifically developed by Canon for use with Sony High Definition cameras. There is also an optional lens adaptor for 2/3 inch lenses.

The XDCAM HD Camcorder has a built-in optical Neutral Density (ND) filter wheel with four positions and a slow shutter- supporting up to 64-frame accumulations.

XDCAM HD products can record video signals in 1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 25P and native 23.98P - using a "MPEG HD" codec with industry standard MPEG-2 MP@HL compression. The user can also select the following bit rates; 35, 25 or 18Mb/s depending on picture quality and recording length requirements. Choosing the highest bit rate of 35Mb/s results in a recording time of approximately 60 minutes, while choosing 18Mb/s provides a recording time of approximately 120 minutes - the longest recording time offered by any current HD camcorder. MPEG HD images are recorded at 1440x1080 pixels with 4:2:0 sampling.

To maximise HD/SD workflow flexibility, all XDCAM HD Camcorders can record in the ubiquitous DVCAM format with a choice of NTSC/PAL and 16:9/4:3 modes. In addition, both camcorder and decks incorporate a down-conversion capability that allows material recorded in the MPEG HD format to be converted to DV signals and output via the i.LINK port - enabling users to edit the material using compatible DV-based non-linear editors.DVCAM is recorded at 25Mb/s allowing approximately 85 minutes recording per disc. In NTSC mode, sampling is 4:1:1 with 480 active lines per frame. In PAL mode, sampling is 4:2:0 with 576 active lines per frame.

XDCAM HD products can record two or four-channel, 16-bit, 48-khz uncompressed (Linear PCM) audio - delivering high sound quality.

Supplied Accessories