General and News http://www.personal-view.com/talks/categories/general/p31/feed.rss Sat, 27 Apr 24 19:40:23 +0000 General and News en-CA Panasonic and Fujifilm sharing continues http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/7214/panasonic-and-fujifilm-sharing-continues Tue, 11 Jun 2013 02:45:33 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 7214@/talks/discussions After combining LSI efforts they move to sensors.

  • Industry's highest dynamic range of 88dB to prevent highlight clipping and produce a vivid and texture-rich image even in low light
  • 1.2 times higher sensitivity than conventional sensors to capture clear images even in low light
  • Range of incident angle expanded to 60 degrees for faithful color reproduction
  • Offering high reliability for broader applications

FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Shigehiro Nakajima) and Panasonic Corporation (President: Kazuhiro Tsuga) have developed organic CMOS image sensor technology that uses an organic photoelectric conversion layer with a photoelectric conversion property at the light receiving section of an image sensor to achieve performance beyond that of conventional image sensors. Applying this technology to the image sensors of digital cameras and other imaging devices expands its dynamic range and enhances sensitivity*4 further to prevent highlight clipping in bright scenes and capture a dark subject with vivid colors and rich textures.

image

The industry has put into continuous efforts to explore image sensor technologies for increasing their number of pixels. This has dramatically improved sensor resolutions, but, in order to further boost image quality, it is necessary to expand the dynamic range, enhance sensitivity and prevent cross-talk or color mixing between pixels. Panasonic took advantage of its semiconductor device technology to boost image quality for its high-performance image sensors. Fujifilm, on the other hand, has developed highly-reliable organic photoelectric conversion layer with high absorption coefficient to be used on a sensor's light receiving section instead of silicon photodiode5 in its effort to build a new image sensor technology. In the latest collaboration, Fujifilm and Panasonic have combined Fujifilm's organic photoelectric conversion layer technology with Panasonic's semiconductor device technology to jointly develop an organic CMOS image sensor that outperforms conventional image sensors. The new organic CMOS image sensor offers the industry's highest dynamic range of 88dB, advanced sensitivity 1.2 times more sensitive than conventional sensors and broader range of incident angle6 to enable the production of more sensitive and compact cameras with better image quality. The two companies will promote the application of this organic CMOS image sensor technology to a wide range of products including security cameras, in-vehicle cameras, mobile device and digital cameras

Via: http://www.fujifilm.com/news/n130611.html

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2016 TIPA Awards http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14977/2016-tipa-awards Mon, 18 Apr 2016 05:43:30 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14977@/talks/discussions
  • Best Digital Photo/Video Professional Camera: Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
  • Best Full-Frame DSLR Expert: Pentax K-1
  • Best DSLR Professional/Action: Nikon D500
  • Best DSLR Professional/High Res: Canon EOS 5Ds R
  • Best APS-C DSLR Expert: Nikon D500
  • Best DSLR Entry Level: Sony α68
  • Best Mirrorless CSC Expert: Fujifilm X-Pro2
  • Best Mirrorless CSC Advanced: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark ll
  • Best Mirrorless CSC Professional: Sony α7R II
  • Best Mirrorless CSC Entry Level: Fujifilm X-T10
  • Best Full-Frame Compact Camera: Sony Cyber-shot RX1R II
  • Best Expert Compact Camera: Canon PowerShot G5 X
  • Best Superzoom Camera: Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ300/FZ330
  • Best Rugged Compact Camera: Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870
  • Best Premium Compact Camera: Leica SL
  • Best Camcorder: Panasonic HC-WXE991
  • Best Professional DSLR Lens: Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
  • Best DSLR Prime Lens: Tamron SP 35mm f/1.8 Di VC USD
  • Best DSLR Telephoto Zoom Lens: Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art
  • Best DSLR Wide Angle Lens: Sigma 24-35mm f/2 DG HSM Art
  • Best CSC Prime Lens: Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM
  • Best CSC Telephoto Zoom Lens: Fujinon XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 RLM OIS WR
  • Best CSC Wide Angle Zoom Lens: Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm 1:2.8 PRO
  • Best CSC Entry-Level Lens: Panasonic Lumix G 25mm f/1.7 ASPH
  • Best ActionCam: Sony HDR-AS50
  • Best Portable Flash: Nissin i60A
  • Best Professional Flash System: Phottix Indra 360 TTL Flash System
  • Best Storage Media: Toshiba TransferJet SDHC
  • Best Imaging Software: Serif Affinity Photo
  • Best Mobile Imaging Device: DxO ONE
  • Best Photo Monitor: BenQ SW2700PT
  • Best Camera Drone: Yuneec Typhoon Q500 4K
  • Best Design: Ricoh Theta S
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    Vimeo replies to criticism of their streaming video quality http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/12800/vimeo-replies-to-criticism-of-their-streaming-video-quality Mon, 13 Apr 2015 18:23:59 +0000 LPowell 12800@/talks/discussions I've subscribed to Vimeo Plus for the last 5 years and used it for hosting 1080p videos for website embedding and providing downloads of the original video files to clients. Like YouTube, Vimeo re-encodes uploaded videos for online streaming and supports 720p and 1080p resolutions. I have no complaints about Vimeo's service and customer support, they've always been reliable and conscientious.

    The image quality of Vimeo's streaming videos, however, has to my eyes deteriorated to the point where it is no longer acceptable. It actually makes my work look BAD to my clients' eyes. Here is a short 30-second example, originally encoded at 20Mbps (Blu-ray quality). First the Vimeo version, then YouTube's, be sure your settings allow you to watch each video in full-screen 1080p:

    I also invite those interested to download the original 74MB MP4 video file from that Vimeo page and compare the image quality to these online versions. While the original is obviously much sharper, to my eyes the YouTube version is acceptable while the Vimeo version is unacceptably degraded to the point where it actually looks out of focus.

    I wrote Vimeo asking if their Vimeo Pro service offers any better video quality. Here is an excerpt from their reply:

    There is no difference between the encoding processes for Vimeo Plus and Vimeo PRO. That said, I’m not seeing much of a difference between the version that we’ve encoded and the original file. Have you tried encoding that video at a higher bitrate and then replacing it, to see if that makes a difference? Please give that a shot, and let us know if you’re still not satisfied with the results!

    Is there anyone else who can't see much difference between the original MP4 and that POS?

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    Blackmagic Won Red Dot Award and promized to deliver 2016 products in 2018 http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14950/blackmagic-won-red-dot-award-and-promized-to-deliver-2016-products-in-2018 Wed, 13 Apr 2016 22:05:40 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14950@/talks/discussions

    In 2016, the Red Dot: Design Team of the Year will travel half way around the globe to receive the “Radius” challenge cup in Essen, Germany. Blackmagic Industrial Design Team led by Simon Kidd from Australia is to receive the highest honorary title of the Red Dot Design Award. Over the years, the designers from Down Under have repeatedly convinced the Red Dot jury of their exceptional design quality. This consistent high-level performance will be honoured, when the Blackmagic Industrial Design Team accepts the Red Dot: Design Team of the Year 2016 award on the large opera stage of Essen’s Aalto-Theater during the Red Dot Gala on 4 July 2016.

    Blackmagic Design is the first Red Dot: Design Team of the Year from Australia. The company has rapidly grown over the last decade to become one of the world’s leading innovators and manufacturers of creative video technology. Dynamically emerging from a tech start-up to become a global industry leader, they produce an end-to-end suite of hardware and software products used in films, television programs, advertisements and news broadcasts around the world. Their cameras and software are used on many acclaimed Hollywood films including The Martian, Mad Max: Fury Road, Furious 7 and Avatar. Blackmagic’s driving philosophy is to foster true creativity by making the highest quality video affordable for everyone. The design team combines this approach with its dedication to innovation, quality and rapid product development, and in this way revolutionises the industry.

    Prof. Dr. Peter Zec, founder and president of the Red Dot Award, says, “Simon Kidd’s team has developed a reputation for combining user-centred design with highly innovative engineering to consistently deliver products that not only challenge, but change markets. Their strong product language is backed by a deep-rooted design philosophy that is focused on use and function in an uncompromising way. That makes Blackmagic Design the deserved recipient of the highest Red Dot title in 2016.”

    Simon Kidd, Director of Industrial Design at Blackmagic has built and led the design team since its inception 10 years ago and has become known for ground-breaking, industry-changing designs that have challenged conventional thinking in a traditionally conservative industry: “We are honoured to receive this coveted award and consider it the highest honour in global design. It recognises our unwavering commitment to making the highest quality video affordable for everyone through incredibly well-designed, high quality, innovative products. To be recognised among the top design-led businesses in the world truly endorses this commitment. We are a young company with an evolving design legacy and we consider this historic award to be validation of the work that we have done to date... and inspiration for the team to go forward.”

    The title of honour „Red Dot: Design Team of the Year“ is not one that can be applied for. Since 1988, the Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen has every year selected a design team that has, over the years, earned a reputation for excellent product design. Past winners include companies such as Mercedes Benz, frogdesign, Audi, Sony, Apple, adidas, LG Electronics, Porsche, Grohe, Veryday and, in 2015, Robert Sachon & Bosch Home Appliances Design Team. Robert Sachon, Head of Design at Bosch Home Appliances, will hand over the “Radius” challenge cup to Simon Kidd at the Red Dot Gala 2016 in Essen.

    Traditionally, the Red Dot: Design Team of the Year presents its achievements in a self-designed special exhibition. This is a highlight of the four-week exhibition “Design on Stage – Winners Red Dot Award: Product Design 2016” at the Red Dot Design Museum Essen in Germany. Blackmagic Industrial Design Team led by Simon Kidd will present its achievements in Essen from 4 July, the day of the Red Dot Gala.

    Don't they have some big brown sphere award for companies who deliver products one year after your preorder?

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    DJI want to stop Yuneec sales in US http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14906/dji-want-to-stop-yuneec-sales-in-us Fri, 01 Apr 2016 11:49:14 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14906@/talks/discussions image

    http://www.slideshare.net/benjaminpopper/complaint-for-patent-infringement/1

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    Shenanigans at Olympus Lens Factory http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14939/shenanigans-at-olympus-lens-factory Sat, 09 Apr 2016 05:44:26 +0000 Kob 14939@/talks/discussions Olympus deserves high marks for being "creative".

    http://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/10/business/international/olympus-investigation-shows-ethical-lapses-and-a-caterer-with-clout.html

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    Panasonic ask you to pay 99 EUR to get good service in Germany now http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14924/panasonic-ask-you-to-pay-99-eur-to-get-good-service-in-germany-now Wed, 06 Apr 2016 04:57:15 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14924@/talks/discussions

    Mit dem neuen LUMIX Premium Service unterstützt Panasonic Fotografen und Videofilmer dabei, stets die optimale Leistung aus ihren LUMIX G Kameras herausholen zu können. Der Service bietet professionellen Kundensupport, umfassende Wartungs- sowie Reparaturleistungen von Produktspezialisten aus dem Hause Panasonic. Eine eigens eingerichtete Hotline, Express-Reparatur und Zustellservice stellen sicher, dass Probleme schnell, bequem und effizient gelöst werden.

    Das neue Serviceangebot richtet sich an die Nutzer der Kamera-Modelle LUMIX GH4, GH4R und GX8 in Deutschland. Der Service ist in drei Leistungsstufen verfügbar, um den persönlichen Bedürfnissen jedes einzelnen Anwenders angemessen begegnen zu können – vom ambitionierten Fotografen, der Wert auf eine sorgenfreie Lösung im Servicefall legt, bis hin zu Profi-Videofilmern, die tagtäglich auf die maximale Leistungsfähigkeit ihrer Kamera angewiesen sind.

    Das Angebot ist ab einem Preis von 99 Euro pro Jahr für den Premium BLUE Service verfügbar. Der Premium GOLD und Premium BLACK Service bieten einen erweiterten Leistungsumfang und sind für 169 Euro, beziehungsweise für 199 Euro erhältlich.

    Premium BLUE Service

    Alle Mitglieder des Premium BLUE Services erhalten Zugang zu einer eigens eingerichteten Service Hotline. Geschulte Experten von Panasonic stehen wochentags zwischen 9 und 17 Uhr für Anrufer bereit und beantworten alle Service-Anfragen rund um das jeweilige LUMIX G Modell. Falls eine registrierte LUMIX GH4, GH4R oder GX8 eine Reparatur benötigt, bietet Panasonic einen persönlichen Abholservice: einfach die Panasonic Hotline anrufen, einen passenden Termin und Abholort (innerhalb Deutschlands) vereinbaren, fertig. Anschließend wird die Kamera in ein Panasonic Service Center transportiert und dort via Express-Reparatur instandgesetzt. Innerhalb der üblicherweise zweijährigen Gewährleistungsperiode ist der Reparaturservice kostenlos.

    Grundsätzlich überprüfen die Techniker bei jeder Reparaturleistung sowohl das Gehäuse als auch das Objektiv darauf, ob die aktuellste Firmware installiert ist und bringen diese – falls nötig – auf den neuesten Stand.

    Ziel ist es, dass die Eigentümer ihre LUMIX G Kamera nach spätestens drei Werktagen zurückbekommen. Sollte dies in Einzelfällen nicht möglich sein, erhalten die Premium BLUE Mitglieder ein kostenfreies Leihgerät.

    Premium GOLD Service

    Über die Leistungen der Premium BLUE Mitgliedschaft hinaus übernimmt Panasonic für Kunden des Premium GOLD Services auch die professionelle Reinigung des Bildsensors sowie des Suchers der Kamera (einmal jährlich). Dazu werden die Kameras in einer staubfreien Umgebung mit besonders sensitiven, nichtalkoholischen Flüssigkeiten gereinigt.

    Premium BLACK Service

    Der Premium BLACK Service umfasst zudem eine erweiterte Palette an Reparatur- und Wartungsmaßnahmen. So bietet die höchste Servicekategorie zusätzlich zu professioneller Reinigung, Firmware Updates und Express-Reparaturen auch eine Kalibrierung des Objektives (einmal jährlich). Bei diesem Service, der für die unten aufgeführten Objektive verfügbar ist, untersuchen die Techniker die Abbildungsleistung und führen feinste Optimierungen durch, damit Fotos und Videos wieder so gestochen scharf werden wie beim ersten Einsatz.

    Der LUMIX Premium Service ist erhältlich im Panasonic Webshop unter

    For 99 EUR you can call Indian support personnel and tell them that camera broke. And they will answer you very politely that they will pick it up and fix it. Soon, may be, or may be not. Or may be not fix.

    If you want to be sure that even if camera won't be fixed but they will at least return it with heavily scratched sensor - pay 169 EUR a year.

    For 199 a year they could even repair something more than broken memory card slot door. With same usual speed.

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    CES 2016 topic http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14356/ces-2016-topic Sat, 02 Jan 2016 22:04:14 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14356@/talks/discussions Topic containing all CES related news.

    We'll see few compacts and camcorders, as well as bunch of fake HDR LCD TVs.

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    Panasonic to follow Nikon and Canon with price hikes http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14904/panasonic-to-follow-nikon-and-canon-with-price-hikes Fri, 01 Apr 2016 06:15:33 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14904@/talks/discussions Starting April 11 Panasonic will change prices for all lenses, camcorders and cameras in Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Russia, China.

    Price change will range from 15% to 45% depending on the item and country.

    Panasonic will also tighten dealers and retail price checks.

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    Olympus will focus on high end products, abandon mass market http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14901/olympus-will-focus-on-high-end-products-abandon-mass-market Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:37:56 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14901@/talks/discussions

    Focus on specific group of customers: Further contraction of DSLR and other digital camera markets, need to transition from value and price focused mass-marketing approach to respond to needs of core users and provide them with unique value at appealing prices. Establish a unique brand position that provides value accepted by a specific group of customers, even if that group may be small

    What this core users marketing fluff means? Well:

    Focus on High End products: “Achieve competitive edge of systems with regard to primarily OM-D and Pro-Lens system and keep contributing as a driver of Company wide technology“

    Via. http://www.olympus-global.com/en/common/pdf/plan_16csp_12e.pdf

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    Microsoft HoloLens http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14880/microsoft-hololens Sat, 26 Mar 2016 22:37:49 +0000 IronFilm 14880@/talks/discussions HoloLens starts shipping next week, only US$3,000 https://blogs.windows.com/devices/2016/02/29/announcing-microsoft-hololens-development-edition-open-for-pre-order-shipping-march-30/

    https://blogs.windows.com/devices/2016/03/25/ted2016-its-a-phenomenal-time-to-be-human/

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    Sony Global Shutter Sensors http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14848/sony-global-shutter-sensors Mon, 21 Mar 2016 23:27:06 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14848@/talks/discussions

    Sony has developed the IMX253LLR/LQR optical size Type 1.1 CMOS image sensor with approximately 12.37 M effective pixels for industrial applications.

    The CMOS image sensor, which features a global shutter function and a 3.45 µm pixel that is the smallest class in the industry*1, achieves high picture quality, high resolution, and high-speed imaging without distortion. Other features include a trigger mode that arbitrarily controls the storage time using an external trigger signal, an ROI (Region of interest) mode for cropping only the required region for output of image data, and functions required by machine vision cameras.

    The IMX255LLR/LQR, a Type 1 CMOS image sensor with approximately 8.95 M effective pixels, uses the same package as the IMX253LLR/LQR to ensure pin compatibility. In addition, the IMX255LLR/LQR can cover 4K pixels, making it suitable not only for industrial applications but also for traffic surveillance and other specialized uses.

    image

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    Panasonic will use Android as cameras OS http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14769/panasonic-will-use-android-as-cameras-os Fri, 11 Mar 2016 06:28:29 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14769@/talks/discussions

    “The interface from our cameras is sometimes experienced as too difficult,” Uematsu explained. “This will be solved quickly [with Android].”

    “During a meeting in France we received complaints which were related to the interface,” Uematsu said. “They literally [told us]; we are not sexy enough.”

    Panasonic is looking at competitors, and Android seems like the logical choice. Uematsu told us “it’s an open OS and easy to use.”

    http://www.stuff.tv/features/exclusive-panasonics-got-android-powered-camera-in-works

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    Ultra HD Blu-Ray specs finilized http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/12980/ultra-hd-blu-ray-specs-finilized Tue, 12 May 2015 22:16:06 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 12980@/talks/discussions

    The Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) today announced completion of the Ultra HD Blu-ray™ specification and released the new logo that will delineate Ultra HD Blu-ray products. The Ultra HD Blu-ray specification, which represents the work of global leaders from the consumer electronics, IT and content creation industries, will enable delivery of Ultra HD content via Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc to the rapidly growing number of UHD TV households

    image

    The completed Ultra HD Blu-ray specification addresses a range of factors, beyond simply increasing resolution, that will significantly enhance the home entertainment experience for consumers. In addition to delivering content in up-to 3840x2160 resolution, the Ultra HD Blu-ray format enables delivery of a significantly expanded color range and allows for the delivery of high dynamic range (HDR) and high frame rate content. Next-generation immersive, object-based sound formats will also be delivered via the Ultra HD Blu-ray specification.

    New ULTRA HD Blu-ray discs hold up to 66GB and 100GB of data on dual and triple layer discs respectively.

    http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20150512005300/en/Blu-ray-Disc-Association-Completes-Ultra-HD-Blu-ray%E2%84%A2#.VVLPLE0cSUn

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    Panasonic closes factory making batteries for cameras http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/13624/panasonic-closes-factory-making-batteries-for-cameras Sun, 30 Aug 2015 01:44:10 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 13624@/talks/discussions

    Japanese electronics giant Panasonic Corp on Thursday said it will stop making lithium-ion batteries at its factory in Beijing this month, cutting 1,300 jobs as part of a move to focus on higher-margin products such as electric car batteries.

    The 15-year-old plant produces batteries for simple mobile phones and digital cameras, both of which are being increasingly overtaken by smartphones in popularity.

    http://www.businessinsider.com/r-panasonic-to-shut-battery-factory-in-beijing-cut-1300-jobs-2015-8#ixzz3kHY1tUB5

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    DisplayPort 1.4 uses compression due to little actual progess in speed http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14677/displayport-1.4-uses-compression-due-to-little-actual-progess-in-speed Wed, 02 Mar 2016 04:35:19 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14677@/talks/discussions

    The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA®) today announced it has published version 1.4 of the DisplayPort (DP) audio/video standard. The first major update to DisplayPort since version 1.3 was released in September 2014, DP 1.4 is also the first DP standard to take advantage of VESA’s Display Stream Compression (DSC) technology. DSC version 1.2 transport enables up to 3:1 compression ratio and has been deemed, through VESA membership testing, to be visually lossless. Together with other new capabilities, this makes the latest version of DP ideally suited for implementation in high-end electronic products demanding premier sound and image quality.

    DisplayPort is a packet-based, extensible protocol for transporting video and audio data. Initially introduced as a new external interface, its flexibility has enabled its adaptation to embedded displays and incorporation into other connectors like the new reversible USB Type-C™ interface and Thunderbolt™. Its Multi-Stream Transport (MST) capability enables high-resolution support of multiple monitors on a single display interface.

    DP 1.4 further builds on the capabilities of the standard’s prior incarnations. The use of video transport compression enhances the ability to take advantage of the USB Type-C connector, enabling both high-definition video and SuperSpeed USB, while also facilitating High Dynamic Range (HDR) and 8K video across the DisplayPort or USB-C connector. Examples of increased display resolution with the new standard include 8Kp60Hz HDR deep color and 4Kp120Hz HDR deep color.

    http://www.vesa.org/featured-articles/vesa-publishes-displayport-standard-version-1-4/

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    Sony IMX318 22.5Mp sensor with 3-axis video stabilizer and HybridAF http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14590/sony-imx318-22.5mp-sensor-with-3-axis-video-stabilizer-and-hybridaf- Tue, 16 Feb 2016 03:55:57 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14590@/talks/discussions

    The industry's smallest unit pixel size at 1.0μm, achieving compact size (type 1/2.6) while realizing 22.5 effective megapixels high resolution

    As smartphones grow ever thinner, so too are image sensors growing increasingly more compact. In line with this trend, Sony has developed a miniscule 1.0μm pixel sensor that, despite its small size, realizes high image quality. To accomplish this, Sony employed manufacturing technology that improves light utilization efficiency, as well as circuit design technology that eliminates noise, a root cause of deterioration in image quality. With this innovation, Sony has realized an image sensor that delivers high quality images, while also boasting small optical size and a high resolution of 22.5 megapixels. Night shots have long been a weak point for the compact cameras used in smartphones, with the lack of light translating into excessive visual noise. The IMX318 addresses this weakness and realizes beautiful photography in nighttime conditions.

    The industry's first image sensor with built-in hybrid AF, as fast as 0.03 seconds, and 3-axis electronic image stabilization

    Hybrid AF, which merges image plane phase detection AF with contrast detection AF, has previously been realized through the combination of an image sensor and an application processor. But with the IMX318, Sony has created the industry's first stacked CMOS image sensor with hybrid AF built into the sensor's internal signal processor. The IMX318 leverages Sony's high-speed AF technology that has been honed over many years, boasting an AF as fast as 0.03 seconds (and as fast as 0.017 seconds when shooting video at 60fps). With this power in hand, the user can capture those decisive moments reliably in focus, whether shooting stills or video.

    3-axis electronic image stabilization for video

    With the IMX318, Sony has also created the industry's first stacked CMOS image sensor with image stabilization functionality built into its internal signal processor. This sensor leverages the image stabilization technology that Sony has cultivated over its years developing cameras, realizing smooth 4K videos with little camera shake by making effectively use of the signal output obtained from the external 3-axis (pitch, yaw, and roll) gyro sensor. Sony's unique image stabilization technology incorporated into the IMX318 corrects not only camera shake, but also lens distortion, making for more beautiful videos. Furthermore, because image stabilization is achieved by processing within the hardware of the image sensor, less power is used than when it is accomplished by software processing in the external application processor. Since it enables smooth video shooting, this image sensor is suited for incorporation into not only smartphones, but also a variety of other products that tend to generate substantial camera shake, such as aerial drones used for image capture.

    4K and high frame rate video recording, through high-speed communications leveraging the latest MIPI specifications

    Sony elected to adopt the MIPI (Mobile Industry Processor Interface) Alliance's latest C-PHY 1.0/D-PHY 1.2 specifications for this image sensor's interface. With this interface, the IMX318 is able to achieve more power efficient and faster data transmission from the image sensor to the application processor. As a result, even at the high resolution of 22.5 megapixels, transmission is realized for all pixels at 30fps. This enables seamless switching between high resolution video and still image photography, realizing the best of both worlds. Since the image sensor can transmit greater-than-4K resolution images for all pixels to the application processor, the user can capture 22.5 megapixel still images even while in the middle of recording video in 4K*3 at 30fps.

    http://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/News/Press/201602/16-013E/

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    Panasonic UK New Cashback http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14559/panasonic-uk-new-cashback- Wed, 10 Feb 2016 15:24:45 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14559@/talks/discussions Offer applies to the following models as detailed: . £100 for the DMC-GH4, £100 for the DMC-GX8, £100 for the DMC-G7, £100 for the DMC-GX7, £50 for the DMC-LX100, £50 for the DMC-FZ100, £50 for the DMC-FZ330, £30 for the DMC-FZ200 and £30 for the DMC-FZ72.

    Panasonic’s Picture Perfect Camera Cashback Offer

    For those looking to purchase an award winning LUMIX camera, Panasonic is offering consumers up to an impressive £100/€140 cashback1. A selection of LUMIX compact cameras and LUMIX G compact system cameras are included in the offer, so whether it’s someone new to photography or a seasoned photographer, there’s a saving to be enjoyed.

    LUMIX G

    For the more discerning photographer, Panasonic’s LUMIX G models offer greater creative control and stunningly superior image quality. The DMC-GH4, the world’s first CSC camera to record 4K videos, is included in the offer, as well as the DMC-GX8, with its classic compact design that makes it the perfect everyday companion for the style-conscious urban adventurer. The award winning DMC-G7, and DMC-GX7 are also included in the offer.

    LUMIX models

    Perfect for those looking for a feature-packed, hi-end, point and shoot camera, the LUMIX compact models included in the offer include the state-of-the-art 4K DMC-LX100 that offers a level of creative control usually only found on more complex camera systems, and the ultimate hybrid bridge FZ1000. Further models included are the superzoom FZ330, FZ200 and DMC-FZ72.

    The cashback is available from 10th February - 30th March 2016 from participating retailers8 and is claimed via consumer redemption at Panasonic http://www.panasonic.co.uk/promotions

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    Autodesk to follow Adobe - only subscription option will remain http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14539/autodesk-to-follow-adobe-only-subscription-option-will-remain- Thu, 04 Feb 2016 16:23:36 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14539@/talks/discussions

    Autodesk, Inc today announced a restructuring plan that will accelerate the move to the cloud and its transition to a subscription-based business model. Through the restructuring, Autodesk seeks to reduce expenses, streamline the organization, and reallocate resources to align more closely with the company’s needs going forward.

    Autodesk plans to reduce staffing levels in the near-term by approximately 10%, or approximately 925 positions.

    Autodesk's cloud subscription passes half of the company's total income.

    The company's LT Family products went subscription-only during 2015, its individual desktop products went the same way at the end of January, and its creative suites will finish the transition to subscription-only on 31 July 2016.

    I really wish all this monsters to go bankrupt, the sooner - the better. And take Adobe with you also.

    But something tells me that they will live happily, reducing actual developers count at the same time.

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    Panasonic new sensor for cars, sometime in the future http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14528/panasonic-new-sensor-for-cars-sometime-in-the-future Wed, 03 Feb 2016 00:27:10 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14528@/talks/discussions

    Panasonic says it has developed an image sensor 100 times as sensitive to light as existing technology, enabling self-driving cars to spot pedestrians, traffic signals and other objects instantly even at night.

    The Japanese manufacturer aims to have a practical version ready as early as 2020 or so.

    With the race to build road-ready autonomous cars heating up, so too is the competition in the electronics needed to make them work.

    The company's new design is made from a thin film of organic material rather than silicon, the stuff of most microchips. Panasonic developed the basic technology with Fujifilm. A proprietary circuit design reduces noise when converting light to electrical signals, while a modified electrode structure helps detect even faint light efficiently.

    Conventional image sensors tend to get blinded by headlights or other sources of glare -- a shortcoming that limits their ability to discern objects at night. Panasonic says its new sensor is sharp-eyed enough to make out the license plate number of a speeding car. The company envisions a range of uses besides self-driving cars, including surveillance cameras and medical equipment.

    Of course with real current QE sensor can not be even 2 times more efficient, it is just marketing speak made for stupid journalists.

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    Personal View FOTGA Monthly Contest http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/13639/personal-view-fotga-monthly-contest- Tue, 01 Sep 2015 07:02:04 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 13639@/talks/discussions Welcome to our next contest.

    We continue good tradition to make contests on PV.

    Terms

    1. You can submit one photo and one video per month, made by you personally using any camera. Just post it in this topic.
    2. Photos of landscapes, flowers, kittens and dogs are accepted, people, especially portraits, and famous buildings must be absent.
    3. Only beautiful "moving slideshows" are accepted (look at photos list for kinds). You dreamed about this day to come, right?
    4. Maximum video length - 15 seconds. It is advised to do not have any cut points at all, camera movement must be absent or be smooth.
    5. Clip must reside on vimeo or youtube video hostings and must have "personal-view contest" text and link to contest page (for one month time).
    6. Photo must reside on Flickr with same text in photo description, size in post no more than 800px width.
    7. Only photos and videos made during contest month are accepted, no old stuff.
    8. Videos will have some priority over photos (we are video oriented community :-) ) Best is to have both.
    9. If you use music, make sure you do it properly and do not break some copyright.

    Winner will be selected each month by me personally (VK), announced and prizes sent during next month.

    Public monthly prize will go to the maker of video/photo causing most prizes and discussions from members.

    1st prize

    Filters set consisting from

    • Fotga Pro1-D UV filter
    • Fotga Pro1-D CPL filter
    • Forga Slim Fader ND
    • Set of ND2, ND4 and ND8 filters
    • All filters come in soft pouches
    • Winner can choose preferred size of filter set (up to 77mm)

    Public prize

    • Include all the above except three ND filters.

    image

    image

    image

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    NAMM 2016 topic http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14481/namm-2016-topic Sat, 23 Jan 2016 19:20:02 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14481@/talks/discussions Yamaha Wireless MIDI Adaptors

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    Nikon rising prices in Japan http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14505/nikon-rising-prices-in-japan Fri, 29 Jan 2016 09:21:40 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14505@/talks/discussions Cites the yen/dollar rate and corresponding materials cost change as main reasons

    image

    http://www.nikon-image.com/products/info/2016/0128.html

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    VR at sundance http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14498/vr-at-sundance- Thu, 28 Jan 2016 15:07:37 +0000 kurth 14498@/talks/discussions http://www.wareable.com/vr/vr-films-experiences-sundance-2016

    http://www.theguardian.com/film/2016/jan/28/virtual-reality-immersive-film-making-wowing-sundance

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    Meetup: Barcelona, Personal-View Meeting http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/7161/meetup-barcelona-personal-view-meeting Tue, 04 Jun 2013 21:17:00 +0000 Branson 7161@/talks/discussions Barcelona meeting:

    20th of december 7pm at Bar Bitacora c/Balboa 1 in Barceloneta neighborhood

    Send PM to @gameb if you have any questions.

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    Amrbarella LSI with 4k60 HEVC and 4k120 H264 encoders http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14391/amrbarella-lsi-with-4k60-hevc-and-4k120-h264-encoders Wed, 06 Jan 2016 12:24:55 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14391@/talks/discussions image

    Ambarella, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMBA), a leading developer of low-power, HD and Ultra HD video processing semiconductors, today introduced the H2 and H12 camera System-on-Chips (SoCs) for a new generation of sports and flying cameras. H2 targets high-end camera models with 4K Ultra HD H.265/HEVC video at 60 frames per second and 4K AVC video at 120 frames per second. These high frame rates deliver smooth video during fast action shots and slow motion playback. H2 also includes 10-bit High Dynamic Range (HDR) video processing to handle high contrast scenes and supports DSLR quality photography. H12 targets mainstream cameras and offers 4K Ultra HD HEVC video at 30 frames per second. Both SoCs have extremely low power consumption allowing for the design of small form factor cameras, and feature advanced 3D electronic image stabilization, potentially eliminating the need for mechanical gimbals.

    "With the introduction of H2 and H12 we now provide a complete portfolio of 4K Ultra HD HEVC solutions for sports and flying cameras," said Fermi Wang, President and CEO of Ambarella. "H2, our first 14nm chip, delivers 4Kp60 Ultra HD HEVC video with 10-bit HDR processing, as supported by the latest generation of 4K HDR televisions. H12 delivers 4Kp30 Ultra HD HEVC video for outstanding video quality at mainstream camera price points."

    H2 features a new generation image processing pipeline which includes 10-bit HDR video processing and excellent imaging, even in challenging low-light conditions. The integration of a 1.2 GHz quad-core ARM® Cortex®-A53 CPU with floating point and NEONTM provides significant processing power for customer applications including flying camera flight control, video analytics and wireless networking. Its hardware de-warp engine supports wide-angle panoramic camera designs, while USB 3.0 connectivity provides fast upload of high resolution video. H2 supports live streaming of a second, low-delay, Full HD video stream for wireless monitoring and camera control.

    H12 supports both 4Kp30 Ultra HD HEVC and AVC video encoding. It integrates a 1GHz single-core ARM® Cortex®-A9 CPU with floating point and NEONTM to provide the processing power required for customer applications including flying camera flight control and wireless networking. Its de-warp capability allows the use of wide-angle lenses with minimal image distortion. H12 also supports the live video streaming of a second, low-delay Full HD video stream.

    Ambarella will demonstrate both H2 and H12 at a private event during the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, January 6 – 9, 2016.

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    Happy New 2016 Year! http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14337/happy-new-2016-year Thu, 31 Dec 2015 07:47:56 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14337@/talks/discussions Wish all the best!

    I am sure coming year will be better for each and every member here.

    Wish you small, light, 14 bit raw video camera with 8K 120fps, with $100 price and $5 batteries!

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    NAB 2016 http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14323/nab-2016 Tue, 29 Dec 2015 23:03:30 +0000 IronFilm 14323@/talks/discussions Still only 2015, but getting in early with my top prediction for cameras to be announced at NAB 2016: URSA Mini 2.5K MFT!

    Simply put it is the 2.5K sensor from the BMCC 2.5K put in the URSA Mini body, and using the MFT mount of course.

    Don't need to touch or change a thing, and if it sells for the same price as the URSA Mini 4K EF already does, then I'm sure the URSA Mini 4K 2.5K MFT will be a hit!!

    But yes, if they can make it be a little cheaper than US$3K (as after all the BMCC is cheaper than the BMPC4K, so I assume the sensor is cheaper), and give it 60fps like the BMMCC (and internal ND filters?? ha, now I really am dreaming!!), then that would be even better.

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    At least one camera company is on the rise - Casio http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14223/at-least-one-camera-company-is-on-the-rise-casio Tue, 15 Dec 2015 09:31:19 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14223@/talks/discussions

    Japan's Casio Computer expects its first record group operating profit in nine years for fiscal 2015, and it has selfies to thank.

    image

    The roaring popularity of its compact digital cameras designed to help people take better self-portraits is the main reason the company expects profit to hit 50 billion yen ($403 million) for the year ending March.

    Even with their hefty price tag of over 100,000 yen, cameras in Casio's TR series are strong-sellers in an economically decelerating China.

    http://asia.nikkei.com/Japan-Update/Selfies-save-Casio-s-digital-camera-business

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    You will need to buy license to make photos and videos of almost anything (in UK) http://www.personal-view.com/talks/discussion/14205/you-will-need-to-buy-license-to-make-photos-and-videos-of-almost-anything-in-uk Sun, 13 Dec 2015 13:04:18 +0000 Vitaliy_Kiselev 14205@/talks/discussions

    Changes to UK copyright law will soon mean that you may need to take out a license to photograph classic designer objects even if you own them. That's the result of the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013, which extends the copyright of artistic objects like designer chairs from 25 years after they were first marketed to 70 years after the creator's death. In most cases, that will be well over a hundred years after the object was designed. During that period, taking a photo of the item will often require a license from the copyright owner regardless of who owns the particular object in question.

    http://arstechnica.co.uk/tech-policy/2015/12/you-may-soon-need-a-licence-to-take-photos-of-that-classic-designer-chair-you-bought/

    It is already law in UK, they just discuss the day it will start working.

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