Sony Unveils ILME-FR7

Sony Electronics Inc. has unveiled the ILME-FR7, an E-mount interchangeable-lens camera with a full-frame image sensor and built-in pan/tilt/zoom functionality. 

The FR7 features a back-illuminated 35mm full-frame CMOS image sensor Exmor R with approximately 10.3 effective megapixels and 15+ stop latitude. In addition to wide dynamic range, low noise and full-frame bokeh, this sensor allows ISO to be expanded up to 409,600 when shooting in low light.

The FR7 features Sony’s E-mount and can mount a wide range of E-mount lenses, including the G Master series. Users can choose focal lengths ranging from 12mm to 1,200mm.

“The FR7 combines the flexibility of a standard PTZ camera with stunning visuals through advanced cinematic features,” says Yang Cheng, vice president of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics, Inc. “The cinematic look and feel is rapidly becoming the norm in broadcasting and live production. In parallel, over the last two years, we’ve seen a steep rise in content created remotely or in small locations where access is difficult. At Sony, we are always listening to our customers, and we are thrilled to announce the FR7.”

The FR7 includes a number of preset scene files, among them S-Cinetone. In the Cine EI mode, base sensitivity can be set to either ISO 800 or ISO 12,800 to match lighting conditions and to minimize noise while maintaining a consistent look. This mode allows the use of Sony’s original S-Log3 gamma, wide S-Gamut3 and S-Gamut3.Cine color spaces. 

With a new dedicated web application, pan, tilt, zoom, focus, record, playback and all camera settings can be intuitively controlled from a tablet or computer web browser. Multiple people can monitor FR7 footage remotely at the same time. Multi-camera monitoring is also enabled, allowing multiple cameras to be viewed remotely on one device.

With its integrated, remotely controllable pan/tilt mechanism, the FR7 can be mounted on a tripod, on a ceiling with the dedicated CIB-PCM1, or in other locations with limited access. It is also compatible with Sony’s RM-IP500 remote controller for multi-camera production, reducing the need for dedicated staff in production studios and other shooting situations. A single RM-IP500 unit can remotely control up to 100 PTZ cameras and provide joystick-controlled PTZ operation. The supplied infrared remote controller will also support the FR7’s operation.

Pan and tilt speeds can be continuously varied from 0.02 degrees per second to 60 degrees per second. The pan-angle range is from -170° to +170°, and the tilt-angle range is from -30° to +195°.

The FR7 can memorize up to 100 camera-position presets, and the built-in web application and optional RM-IP500 remote controller allow up to 100 camera-position presets to be recalled. Presets include camera direction, zoom and focus.

The FR7 will also support S700 protocol via Ethernet, enabling control of this product from Sony’s Remote Control Panel and Master Setup Unit with a firmware update.

Fast Hybrid AF and PTZ functionalities combine to focus on static or fast-moving subjects precisely and smoothly over a wide area. The integrated Bionz XR engine realizes detection performance for pinpoint eye focus even when subjects are looking at steep angles, allowing the operator to concentrate on composing the best shot. Touch Focus can be used to initiate focusing with Real-time Tracking on the desired subject when using the FR7’s web application, with Real-time Eye AF if an eye is detected.

The built-in electronic variable ND filter allows seamless ND adjustment. An Auto ND function keeps exposure constant by automatically adjusting the ND filter to match changing light. Remote control is also possible.

The FR7 features dual media slots that support CFexpress Type A and SDXC memory cards. HDMI Type A and 12G-SDI connectors are provided for video output as well as optical output for long transmission.

The Audio In (XLR type 5-pin) connector will receive signal from an external microphone or audio device. Audio CH-1 and CH-2 use a single connector. Camera control, video and audio transfer, and power supply can also be carried out via a single LAN cable. The FR7 LAN (network) connector supports a variety of streaming protocols, including RTSP, SRT and NDI. The FR7 can be powered from an external PoE++ device via a standard network cable.

The Timecode In connector receives timecode for synchronization with an external device, while the Genlock receives synchronization signals in multi-camera setups.

The FR7 will be available in November and will list for $9,699.99.

The FR7K, which includes the FR7 and a SELP28135G lens, will be available for $12,199.99, and the CIB-PCM1 ceiling bracket will be available for $119.99. 

The FR7 will be featured in Sony’s booth at IBC 2022, which will run from Sept. 9-12.

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