Sony BRC-AM7 4K 60P AI Enabled PTZ Auto Framing Camera (Black)

About: Sony BRC-AM7 4K 60P AI Enabled PTZ Auto Framing Camera (Black)

The Sony BRC-AM7 is an Advanced PTZ Auto Framing camera with built-in AI analytics delivering flagship image quality. Offering high interoperability with other production systems.

Dramatically improved imaging performance

Images captured over a 20x optical zoom range that covers everything from wide angles to close-ups are delivered as high-quality 4K 60p output. In addition, interoperability with existing systems has been improved by incorporating ITU709/709tone, S-Cinetone, and S-Log3 support.

Built-in AI PTZ Auto Framing

Advanced AI analytics allow subjects to be accurately tracked with smooth, natural-looking framing, making it easier than ever to produce high-quality content with fewer camera operators. Direct pan and tilt drive using newly developed motors results in exceptionally smooth camera operation. This advanced drive system is also remarkably quiet and ideally suited to situations where silence is a requirement.

Seamless integration with Sony’s system cameras

The BRC-AM7 is the smallest and lightest camera of its type in the world*, making it easy to install just about anywhere. It is unobtrusive for the same reason, even in multi-camera setups. Additionally, the BRC-AM7 offers broad connectivity and system compatibility with, for example, S700PTP and free-d protocols.

• ＊Equipped with a 1.0-type image sensor and compatible with 4K 60p as an integrated lens PTZ remote camera. As of April 2024 press announcement. Sony survey.

Dramatically improved imaging performance

An Exmor RS image sensor and BIONZ XR processing engine deliver outstanding 4K 60p quality

A 1.0-type Exmor RS image sensor with approximately 14.0 million effective pixels and the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine work in unison to achieve high resolution with low noise. Textures and materials are rendered with lifelike accuracy.

What’s more, 5K oversampling capability for 4K QFHD (3840 x 2160) recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning oversamples approximately 1.7x the required amount of data, producing 4K 60p output with excellent resolution and detail.

The BRC-AM7 offers high-resolution 4K HDR imaging, broad dynamic range, and a wide color gamut.

It is possible to record at up to 4K 120p*, allowing the production of impressively smooth 4K slow-motion imagery. Slow motion is a great way to add interest and variation to dynamic sports action.

• * Recording only. Additional equipment required for output. Angle of view is reduced by approximately 23%. 4K 120p not available during transfer via PoE++.

New 24-480 mm* integrated lens design covers wide to telephoto

This newly developed built-in lens features a 20x optical zoom range. In addition, Sony’s advanced Clear Image Zoom offers 30x zoom (720 mm) in 4K and 40x zoom (940 mm) in Full HD. This offers extraordinary range that can easily capture a subject in various situations.

• *35 mm full-frame equivalent.

Built-in Variable ND filter for automatic exposure adjustment

Sony’s original built-in electronic variable ND (neutral density) filter allows seamless variation from 1/4 to 1/128 ND, with an auto exposure mode automatically maintaining optimum exposure through lighting variations. Ideal exposure can be maintained when stage lighting changes, for example, without having to adjust iris, shutter, or gain. Also, optimum exposure can be achieved without affecting depth of field in the widest possible range of lighting situations.

Quick color matching with other Sony cameras

Color matching with Sony’s system cameras is simple with ITU709 and 709tone, as well as S-Cinetone and S-Log3 for Cinema Line cameras for seamless multi-camera operation.

Built-in AI PTZ Auto Framing - Highly accurate recognition technology

AI analytics uses detailed human pose, head, face, clothing, and other data to recognize human subjects with high precision. This can be used to automatically control pan, tilt, and zoom to follow an athlete at a sports event, for example. PTZ Auto Framing is smooth and natural-looking, making it possible to work with a smaller camera crew.

High-performance AF and PTZ Auto Framing combined for outstanding subject tracking

The latest Exmor RS image sensor and BIONZ XR image processing engine work in unison to achieve outstanding subject detection precision and speed for significantly improved tracking performance. The image sensor has focal plane phase-detection AF in the imaging area, easily focusing on fast-moving subjects with extraordinary speed and precision over a wide area.

PTZ Auto Framing works with this newly adopted AF system to dramatically improve overall AF tracking performance. A performer who is actively moving around on stage can be reliably followed while precise focus is maintained, for example. With this capability, a multi-camera system can be set up to follow individual performers without requiring a correspondingly large camera crew.

Versatile camera work and quiet operation

A direct-drive system using newly developed axial-gap, brushless DC motors, with high torque and advanced control technology, provides highly accurate response and tracking. It allows smooth, detailed control of camera pan and tilt for high-quality visual presentation at all speed ranges. These advanced motors work with precision optical encoders to allow pan and tilt speeds ranging from a very slow 0.004 degrees per second to a snappy 180 degrees per second. This broad speed range makes it possible to be used in various applications.

The direct-drive system is also remarkably quiet with a noise criterion rating below NC25*, so it can be used without worrying about noise at broadcast studios, ceremonies, weddings, classical concerts, or other events where quiet operation is essential.

• * Under Sony’s measurement conditions

Built-in Web App for intuitive operation

Real-time tracking AF is supported, allowing the tracking subject to be changed with a single touch. It also enables control of camera pan, tilt, zoom, focus, iris, ND filter density, recording, and playback from a web browser on a tablet or computer.

PTZ Auto Framing

Bring real, AI-powered auto-tracking to your remote camera shooting. Expand the horizons of your video productions with PTZ Auto Framing.

Seamless integration with Sony’s system cameras - Interoperability with existing systems

The BRC-AM7 supports not only ITU709, 709tone, S-Cinetone and S-Log3 for seamless color matching, but also has great control capability thanks to the S700PTP protocol. This allows remote control of Sony cameras via Ethernet, so detailed remote control is available from Sony’s RCP series remote-control panels or MSU series master setup units. This makes it possible to combine the BRC-AM7 with Sony’s BRC series cameras and/or system cameras to create highly integrated systems with advanced remote-control capability*.

• *An MSU unit is required for multi-camera systems.

Installation freedom and flexibility

The BRC-AM7 is the smallest, lightest camera of its kind in the world.* It fits easily in limited spaces where installation of other PTZ cameras might be difficult or impossible. This product is less likely to be noticed if it appears in a shot in a multi-camera installation. The BRC-AM7 also has a standard 1/4-20 UNC screw socket for tripod mounting and the same 3/8-16 UNC screw socket as other system cameras for accessory attachment.

• ＊Equipped with a 1.0-type image sensor and compatible with 4K 60p as an integrated lens PTZ remote camera. As of April 2024 press announcement. Sony survey.

Broad connectivity

In addition to 12G SDI primary output, 3G SDI is provided for monitoring. The BRC-AM7 offers a variety of video output options such as optical-fiber 12G SDI available via an SFP slot, and HDMI. Audio input can be connected via a pair of 3-pin XLR type connectors or a 0.14 in stereo jack, providing plug-in compatibility.

Power can be supplied via a standard 4-pin XLR connector, or a PoE++* network connection without the need for additional wiring in environments where a power infrastructure is not available.

• * IEEE802.3bt (Type 4 Class 8) compliant.

 The BRC-AM7 has dual memory slots that are both compatible with CFexpress Type A and SDXC memory cards.* Slot A and Slot B accept CFexpress Type A and UHS II/UHS I SDXC memory cards for high-speed storage and retrieval of large volumes of data. The dual memory slots also allow simultaneous recording, relay recording, and proxy recording.

• * Not compatible with CFexpress Type B memory cards. Internal recording and playback are not available when powered via PoE++.

Expanding creative possibilities

free-d compliant camera tracking information output (pan, tilt, zoom, focus, iris) allows the camera’s position in 3DCG space to be output so that its motion can be replicated in virtual VR/AR systems. This makes high-level virtual production available for news programs, events, and much more.

SRT/RTMP/RTMPS/RTSP, NDI|HX, and optical fiber communication are supported, allowing 4K 60p output and remote control via an IP network.

Other Features

• Compatible with RM-IP500*: The optional RM-IP500 remote camera controller for PTZ cameras can provide precise joystick control of pan, tilt, zoom, focus, and iris.
  • *Sold separately
• Built-in four-color tally lamp: The tally lamp can give performers and staff in the studio more information about camera status in multi-camera systems for smooth, efficient operation.
• TC IN/GENLOCK terminal: Simplifies integration with other systems in multi-camera broadcast environments.

Forward development

BRC-AM7 will be supporting the following features below with Ver2.0 (Scheduled to be available from July 2025)

• Enhanced PTZ Auto Framing functions
  • Lead Room Effect
  • Multi-person Framing*
  • Face Registration*
  • Tracking Range
  • PTZ Auto Framing is performed only within the predefined area. This also allows users to exclude any unintended subjects.
• Functions for remote productions
  • Additional functions with RCP / MSU (Support: Variable ND / Call / Area Indication / AWB)
  • Compatible with CNA-2**
• Preset Position
  • Pan-Tilt Speed Mode to set Speed or Time for preset recall
  • Preset Position compatible with Clear Image Zoom ratio exceeding 1x 
    • * Equivalent to the SRG-A40 / A12 Ver2.0
    • ** Available with firmware update planned to be announced later.

Specifications

• General
  • Weight: Approx. 7.71 lb (3.5 kg)
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 6.64 x 8.87 x 7.57 in (168.7 x 225.2 x 192.3 mm)
  • Power Requirements
    • DC 12 V (11.0 V to 17.0 V)
    • PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt Type 4 Class 8 compliant) (41.1 V to 57.0 V)
  • Power Consumption
    • ≦132 W (DC12 V)
    • ≦71.3 W (PoE++)
  • Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F)
  • Storage Temperature: -20 °C to +60 °C (-4 °F to +140 °F)
  • Ceiling Mount: Yes (with Ceiling Bracket)
  • Tally Ramp: Left (x1) / Right (x1), Red / Green / Yellow / Blue
  • Recording Format (Video)
    • XAVC S Intra 422
    • XAVC S Long 422 / 420
    • XAVC HS Long 422 / 420
  • Recording Format (Audio): LPCM 24 bits, 48 kHz, 4 channels
  • Recording Frame Rate
    • XAVC S Intra 3840 x 2160 / 59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p
    • XAVC S Intra 1920 x 1080 / 59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p
    • XAVC S Long 422 / 420 3840 x 2160 / 119.88p, 100p, 59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p
    • XAVC S Long 422 / 420 1920 x 1080 / 119.88p, 100p, 59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p
    • XAVC HS Long 422 / 420 3840 x 2160 / 119.88p, 100p, 59.94p, 50p, 23.98p
  • Recording / Playback Time: No
  • Recording Format (Proxy Audio): No
  • Recording Format (Proxy Video): No
• Lens
  • Lens Mount: No
  • F-Number (Maximum Aperture): F2.8 to F4.5
  • Optical Zoom: 20x
  • Focal Length: f = 7.71 to 154.21 mm
  • Focal Length (35mm Format Equivalent): 24 to 480 mm
  • Focus Range (From the front of the Lens): Approx. 10 mm to infinity
  • Horizontal Viewing Angle: Approx. 75 deg.
  • Minimum Object Distance: Approx. 46 deg.
• Camera Section
  • Imaging Device (Type): 1.0-type (13.2 mm x 8.8 mm) Exmor RS CMOS sensor
  • Number of Pixels (Total): Approx. 20.9 megapixels
  • Number of Pixels (Effective): Approx. 14.0 megapixels max.
  • Optical Low Pass Filter: Yes
  • Built-in Optical Filters: Clear, linear variable ND (1/4ND to 1/128ND)
  • Minimum Illumination: 1.2 lx (typical) (3840 x 2160 / 29.97p mode, F2.8, +36 dB gain, SS=1/30 sec, BaseLook=ITU709)
  • Gain Control: -3 to 36 dB (every 1 dB)
  • Color Temperature Range: 2000 K to 15000 K
  • ISO Sensitivity: ISO 250 to 16000
  • Focus
    • Type: Fast Hybrid AF (phase-detection AF / contrast-detection AF)
    • Focus Point: Max. 475 points (phase-detection AF)
    • Recognition Target: Human
    • Focus Area: Wide / Zone / Flexible Spot
    • Other Features: AF Subj. Shift Sensitivity, AF Transition Speed, AF Assist
  • Output Format
    • SDI OUT 1
      • 3840 x 2160 / 59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p,
      • 1920 x 1080 / 59.94p, 50p, 59.94i, 50i, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p, 23.98PsF, 29.97PsF, 25PsF
    • SDI OUT 2
      • 1920 x 1080 / 59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p
    • HDMI
      • 3840 x 2160 / 59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p,
      • 1920 x 1080 / 59.94p, 50p, 59.94i, 50i, 29.97p, 25p, 23.98p, 720 x 480 / 59.94p, 720 x 576 / 50p
  • Clear Image Zoom: Approx. 1.5x (QFHD), Approx. 2x (FHD)
  • Shutter Speed: 64 frames to 1/8000 sec
  • Slow and Quick Motion Function
    • XAVC S QFHD
      • 1 to 60, 100, 120 fps
    • XAVC S HD
      • 1 to 60, 100, 120, 150, 180, 200, 240 fps
  • White Balance: 2000 K to 15000 K
  • Gain: -3 dB to +36 dB (every 1 dB, SDR ITU709)
  • Gamma Curve: No
  • Base Look: [S-Cinetone] / [ITU709] / [709tone] / [s709] / [709 (800%)] / [S-Log3] / [HLG Live] / [HLG Mild] / [HLG Natural]
  • Latitude: No
  • Night Shot: Yes
• Pan-Tilt Section
  • Pan / Tilt Angle
  • Pan: -175 deg. to 175 deg.
  • Tilt: -30 deg. to 210 deg.
  • Pan / Tilt Speed
  • Pan: 0.004 to 180 deg./sec
  • Tilt: 0.004 to 180 deg./sec
  • Quietness: NC25 or less
  • Preset Position: 100
  • Pan / Tilt / Zoom Sync: No
  • Pan / Tilt / Zoom Trace: No
  • PTZ Auto Framing: Yes
• Input/Output
  • Audio Input
    • XLR-type 3-pin (female) (x2),
    • line / mic / mic +48 V selectable
    • Mic Reference: -30 to -80 dBu
    • 3.5 mm Stereo Minijack x1, Mic
  • SDI Output
    • SDI OUT 1: BNC (x1),
      • 12G-SDI, 6G-SDI, 3G-SDI (Level A / B), HD-SDI
    • SDI OUT 2: BNC (×1),
      • 3G-SDI (Level A), HD-SDI
  • HDMI Output: Type-A connector (x1)
  • Genlock Input: BNC (x1), 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω
  • Optical Output: SFP+ compliant *2*3
  • DC Input: XLR-type 4-pin (male) (x1)
  • Network: RJ-45 (LAN) (x1), 1000BASE-T
  • Remote Control
    • RJ-45 (OPTION) (x1)
    • Red Tally IO / Green Tally IO
  • IR Remote Control: Yes
  • TC Input / TC Output: BNC (x1), TC IN only
• Network/IP Streaming
  • Protocols
    • IPv6: TCP, UDP, ICMPv6, HTTP, HTTPS, DHCPv6, DNS, mDNS, RTP / RTCP, RTSP, SRT, FTP, FTPS, NTP
    • IPv4: TCP, UDP, ARP, ICMP, HTTP, HTTPS, DHCP, DNS, mDNS, RTP / RTCP, RTSP, VISCA over IP, SRT, NDI|HX, FTP, FTPS, NTP, S700PTP, RTMP, RTMPS, PTP-IP over SSH, SSDP, TSL- UMD
  • IP Stream
    • Video Resolution: 3840 x 2160, 1920 x 1080, 1280 x 720, 640 x 360
    • Compression Format: H.264: High / Main / Baseline Profile H.265: Main Profile
    • Maximum Frame Rate: H.264: 59.94fps, H.265: 59.94fps
    • Bitrate Control Mode: CBR / VBR
    • Range of Bitrate Setting: 512 Kbps to 80 Mbps
  • NDI||HX Capability: Yes (pre-installed)
  • Camera Tracking Data: free-d Type D0 / D1
• Web App
  • Supported Operation Systems
    • Windows: Windows 10 or later
    • Mac: macOS 11 or later
    • iPad: iPadOS 16 or later
    • Android: Android 11 or later
  • Supported Web Browsers
    • Windows: Google Chrome, Edge
    • Mac: Google Chrome, Safari
    • iPad: Google Chrome, Safari
    • Android: Google Chrome
• Media
  • Type: CFexpress Type A / SD card (x2)
• Accessibility
  • Screen Reader: No
• Accessories
  • Kit Lens: No
  • Supplied Accessories
    • Lens cap (x1)
    • Remote commander (RMT-RC3) (x1)
    • Ceiling bracket A (x1)
    • Ceiling bracket B (x1)
    • Screw (M3x8) (x6)
    • Screw (M4x8) (x1)
    • Wire rope (x1)
    • QR code sticker (x1)
    • Warranty booklet (x1)