Canon Releases Firmware Update Version 1.0.4.1.00 for the EOS C300 Mk II Cinema Camera

Posted on July 29, 2016August 31, 2016 by TMS Staff

On Wednesday, July 27, 2016 Canon released Firmware Update Version 1.0.4.1.00 for the Canon EOS C300 Mark II Cinema Camera (EF and PL Mounts). The new update brings new features and improvements to Canon’s flagship 4K camera.

Firmware Version 1.0.4.1.00 incorporates the following:

Adds support for Canon Log 3. The Canon XF Utility software (bundled with the Canon C300 Mk II) must be updated to Version 3.1. If using Canon XF Utility 3.0 or earlier, gamma information will not be shown correctly in the metadata of clips filmed on the Canon Log3 Gamma setting.

Minimizes Canon Log 2 noise in darker areas.

Enables magnification to be used during recording. “Face detection and tracking” and live view display using Browser Remote will not function when magnification during recording is set.

The following features are enabled when these lenses are attached. The lens firmware must also be updated: CN7x17 KAS S/E1, CN-E18-80mm, T4.4 L IS KAS S or CN20x50 IAS H/E1.

Enables autofocus using the Dual Pixel CMOS AF function. (Not applicable to the CN20x50 IAS H/E1 lens)
Enables the joystick on the camera’s grip unit to operate the zoom (can be set in camera menu settings).
Enables manual iris control, and control of focus, zoom and iris using the RC-V100 Remote Controller (sold separately).
Enables automatic aperture and push auto iris.
Enables retrieval of metadata, such as the model name and the focal distance of the lens attached.

Enables Dual Pixel Auto Focus Function when these lenses are attached: CN7x17 KAS S/E1 lens, CN-E18-80mm T4.4 L IS KAS S lens or any EF cinema prime lenses.

Adds peripheral illumination/chromatic aberration correction for the following lenses:

COMPACT-SERVO lenses: CN-E18-80mm T4.4 L IS KAS S
CINE-SERVO lenses: CN20x50 IAS H/E1
EF lenses: EF35mm f/1.4L II USM, EF50mm f/1.8 STM and EFS18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM.

Enhances menu operations so that settings related to resolution/color sampling, etc. are retained as accurately as possible when switching recording settings.

Supports ACES proxy (ACES 1.0).

Mitigates black-‐dot phenomenon that appears in the periphery of high- brightness light sources.

FIRMWARE UPDATES CANNOT BE PERFORMED USING CFAST 2.0 CARDS. USE a SD/SDHC/SDXC MEMORY CARD WITH 64MB OR HIGHER CAPACITY.

Please note that once the C300 Mk II is updated to the latest firmware, it cannot be restored to a previous version.

Update Preparations:
The camera’s menu settings and Custom Picture setting will be reset once the firmware update has completed. Canon recommends saving your menu and custom picture settings to an SD card before performing the update (make sure the SD card is separate from the one you will use to perform the update). Once the update has been performed, the saved settings can be reloaded into the camera.

These items are required to perform the update:
1. Canon EOS C300 Mark II or EOS C300 Mark II PL Cinema Camera
2. A computer running Windows (10, 8.1, 8. 7 SP1) or Mac OS X (10.7-10.11)
3. SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card
4. SD Card Reader, or SD Card Slot on a computer
5. Fully charged battery for the camera
6. The Firmware Update folder (downloaded from the Canon website here)

The downloaded firmware folder contains the procedure manual for updating the firmware.

The Firmware Update Version 1.0.4.1.00 for the Canon EOS C300 Mark II can be downloaded from Canon’s website here.

You can purchase the Canon C300 Mark II from Texas Media Systems today using the links below:

CANON C300 MARK II CINEMA CAMERA EF

CANON C300 MARK II CINEMA CAMERA PL-MOUNT

CANON C300 MARK II ZACUTO ENG PACKAGE W/ CINE-SERVO 17-120MM LENS

Sony PXW-Z150 now IN STOCK at Texas Media Systems!

Posted on July 28, 2016September 22, 2016 by TMS Staff

Sony’s new 4K handy camcorder, the PXW-Z150, is in stock now at Texas Media Systems! The Z150 packs a punch with tons of professional features tucked away inside a small, handheld form factor. This camera has it all: 4K image quality, 120fps HFR Full-HD slow-motion and built-in advanced networking for live streaming and wireless workflow.

The first of its kind to feature a 1.0 inch type stacked CMOS sensor, the PXW-Z150 outputs brighter, higher resolution images with more bokeh when capturing a shallow depth of field. Record 4K QFHD (3840×2160) using the advanced XAVC Long GOP 100Mbps codec for broadcast-quality footage. The PXW-Z150 incorporates an optical 12x zoom lens and features Sony’s Clear Image Zoom which doubles magnification to 18x when shooting in 4K QFHD. When filming in HD magnification almost triples to 24x.

The PXW-Z150 can record 120fps Full-HD, allowing users to obtain cinematic-quality slow-motion shots. Utilize various professional workflows with the ability to record XAVC, AVC/H.264, AVCHD 2.0, and MPEG-4 formats. A built-in four position ND filter negates the need to carry around extra filters.

Built-in Wi-Fi allows for live streaming and FTP connection. Pair the PXW-Z150 to your smartphone or tablet and control the camera via Wi-Fi Remote.

The Sony PXW-Z150 is in stock now at Texas Media Systems. Call or stop by and purchase yours today, or purchase one online from our store here!

Still not convinced? Check out some test footage of the PXW-Z150 below and experience the quality for yourself!

You can also rent the Sony PXW-Z150 from Texas Media Systems TODAY! Check out our rental catalog here for pricing.

Canon Releases Version 1.0.2.1.00 Firmware Update for EOS C100 Mark II Cinema Camera

Posted on July 26, 2016September 22, 2016 by TMS Staff

On Wednesday, July 27 2016 Canon released Firmware Update Version 1.0.2.1.00 for the Canon EOS C100 Mark II Cinema Camera. The new update brings new features and improvements to one of Canon’s most popular cameras.

Firmware Version 1.0.2.1.00 incorporates the following:
1. Please note that the following features are only enabled when these specific lenses are attached to the Canon C100 Mk II: CN7x17 KAS S/E1, CN-E18-80mm T4.4 IS KAS S, CN20x50 IAS H/E1. The lens firmware must also be updated to the latest version.

Enables autofocus via the Dual Pixel AF function. (Please note that this feature is not applicable to the CN20x50 IAS H/E1 lens)
Enables the joystick on the grip assembly to operate the zoom function.
Enables iris control to be set to manual, and control of focus, zoom and iris using RC-V100 Remote Controller (sold separately).
Enables automatic aperture and push auto iris.
Enables retrieval of metadata (model name, focal distance, etc.) of the attached lens.

2. Adds peripheral illumination for the following lenses:

COMPACT-SERVO Lenses: CN-E18-80mm T4.4 L IS KAS S
EF Lenses: EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM, EF 50mm f/1.8 STM, EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 USM

3. Enables the built-in monaural microphone to be set to “Off” position.

Once the C100 Mk II has been updated to the latest firmware, it cannot be restored to a previous version.

Only update to Firmware Version 1.0.2.1.00 if your Canon EOS C100 Mk II is running Firmware Version 1.0.0.1.00 – 1.0.1.1.00.

Preparations for Update:
The camera’s menu settings and Custom Picture setting will be reset once the firmware update has completed. Canon recommend saving your menu and custom picture settings to an SD card before performing the update (make sure the SD card is separate from the one you will use to perform the update). Once the update has been performed, the saved settings can be reloaded into the camera.

These items are required to perform the firmware update:
1. Canon EOS C100 Mk II Cinema Camera
2. A computer running Windows (10, 8.1, 8. 7 SP1) or Mac OS X (10.7-10.11)
3. SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card
4. SD Card Reader, or SD Card Slot on a computer
5. Fully charged battery for the camera
6. The Firmware Update folder (downloaded from the Canon website)

The downloaded firmware folder contains the procedure manual for updating the firmware.

The Firmware Update Version 1.0.2.1.00 for the Canon EOS C100 Mark II can be downloaded from Canon’s website here.

You can purchase the Canon C100 Mark II from Texas Media Systems today using the links below:

Canon C100 Mark II (Body Only)

Canon C100 Mark II with EF-S 17-55mm Lens

Canon C100 Mark II with 24-105mm Lens

Canon C100 Mark II Triple Lens Kit

Canon C100 Mark II with EF-S 18-135mm Lens

Canon C100 Mark II Wedding/Documentary Kit with Ronin-M Stabilizer and Sennheiser Wireless Lavalier System

Panasonic Unveils AG-AC30 with Professional Features and Built-In LED Light

Posted on July 22, 2016September 22, 2016 by TMS Staff

Panasonic has pulled the curtain on its new entry-level handheld camcorder, the AG-AC30. Weighing just over 3 pounds, the AC30 contains many features one would expect to find on a high-level professional camcorder. Thanks to its 20x zoom and 29.5 mm wide angle lens, the AG-AC30 allows you to capture beautiful zooms and engaging wide shots.

The AG-AC30 records up to 1080p Full HD (AVCHD up to 28 Mbps and MP4/MOV up to 50 Mbps) and is capable of simultaneous recording via dual SD card slots. The AC30 also has the ability to switch from one card to the other for extended recording times. One of the stand out features of the AG-AC30 is the built-in LED light with color conversion and diffusion filters. With an output of 300 lux at 1 meter, the built-in LED light is perfect for nighttime shooting and interviews.

The 1/3.1-inch Back Side Illumination (BSI) sensor is smaller than a 1-inch and MFT sensor, but it packs a punch with an increased effective area with 6.03M effective pixels and a new Noise Reduction function for clear and vibrant images, even in low-light.

Another key attribute is the 5-Axis Hybrid Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) that assists in obtaining smooth footage when shooting handheld. Zoom, Focus, and Iris can be precisely controlled with the AC30’s 3-manual, multi-purpose lens rings. The AC30 incorporates Intelligent Auto Focus and includes an array of Focus Assist Functions such as Focus Expand, Focus Peaking, and Area Mode. An LED ring serves are a tally light and recording verification.

The 3-inch retractable LCD touch-panel offers HD monitoring, and the 1.55 million dot EVF can tilt to accommodate multiple shooting positions. The AC30 features two XLR audio inputs with +48V phantom power and an HDMI output for external monitoring and recording.

Panasonic states that the AG-AC30 will ship in August 2016 for a retail price of $1,799.

Pre-Order the Panasonic AG-AC30 from Texas Media Systems here!

Sony’s New 4K XDCAM PXW-Z450 Targets Broadcasters

Posted on May 26, 2016September 22, 2016 by TMS Staff

During NAB 2016 Sony announced the new XDCAM PXW-Z450, the world’s first 4K shoulder camcorder. Using a specially-developed Exmor R 4K 2/3-inch type CMOS sensor, the PXW-Z450 is perfect for a vast array of 4K productions. The camera combines enhanced weight balance and low power consumption with field production features necessary for broadcasters.

Sony 4K XDCAM PXW-Z450 — The Sony PXW-Z450 features a built-in wireless module, embedded RJ-45 Ethernet 100B-T connector and Near Field Communication (NFC) function for simple Wireless LAN setup and operation via a smartphone or tablet with Sony’s Content Browser Mobile™ application.

The PXW-Z450 is capable of multi-format recording and captures QFHD (3840×2160) at 50p/59.94p, as well as an array of HD formats including XAVC Intra, XAVC Long GOP, MPEG HD 422 and MPEG HD 420. The camera accepts standard B4-mount lenses without the use of an adapter, making lens swapping easy and effortless.

Perfect for broadcast production and ENG freelance photographers, the PXW-Z450 supports pool feed functions (HD/SD-SDI), allowing broadcasters to record an external signal on an SxS card from another camera on-site without a portable deck. An “ONLINE button” allows users to transmit proxy clips or stream AV signals to other equipment connected on the network.

Sony 4K XDCAM PXW-Z450 Cameras — The PXW-Z450 supports a variety of Sony’s viewfinders, including the Full HD OLED HDVF-EL30 and HDVF-EL20.

Sony have yet to announce pricing for the PXW-Z450, which is said to be available by the end of 2016.

SONY PXW-Z450 HIGHLIGHTS

Shooting in 4K and HD
Specially-developed 4K sensor for B4 lenses
Low power and ergonomic design
Excellent network connectivity

To learn more about the Sony XDCAM PXW-Z450, click here.

Software Update V2.00 for Sony FS5/FS5K Released, Supports CBKZ-FS5RIF RAW Upgrade

Posted on May 13, 2016September 22, 2016 by TMS Staff

Sony has released the much anticipated Software Update Version 2.00 for the PXW-FS5 and PXW-FS5K Camcorders. Along with some welcome features, the most interesting aspect of the update is the ability to externally shoot and record in RAW mode. This feature requires Sony’s $600 CBKZ-FS5RIF RAW upgrade (sold separately) to become functional, allowing the user to record 4K (4096×2160) 60p/50p and continuous 2K (2048×1080) 240fps/200fps on an external recorder (i.e. Convergent Design’s Odyssey 7Q+ and Sony’s AXS-R5 with the HXR-IFR5 interface unit).

Other features of the Version 2.00 Software Update for the FS5 include:

Automatic adjustment of the ND filter density.
Enhanced zebra function that enables the selection of 2 types of settings. The level settings can now be adjusted in 1% increments.
The ability to select which audio is outputted through the headphones.
The ability to acquire and record position information when shooting using the GPS function.

Ver.1.11 or earlier is required to perform the update to Version 2.00. Visit Sony’s website here to download the update (Mac & PC versions available).

SONY PXW-FS5 XDCAM SUPER 35 CAMERA SYSTEM – $5,599.00

SONY PXW-FS5K XDCAM SUPER 35 CAMERA W/ 18-105MM LENS- $6,099.00

SONY CBKZ-FS5RIF RAW UPGRADE

ZEISS Introduces Lens Gear Rings and Lens Bundles

Posted on April 19, 2016September 22, 2016 by TMS Staff

The new ZEISS Lens Gear Rings instantly turn the ZEISS Otus, ZEISS Milvus and ZEISS Loxia lenses into “cinema” lenses by adding follow focus support. Made from premium aluminum with a hardened surface coating, the lens gears come in 4 sizes (mini, small, medium and large), allowing for maximum versatility. No tools are necessary as the gears are easily slid onto the lens and attached to the focus ring simply by turning the two counteracting rings.

Each lens gear is supplied with a rubber covered band, the GumGum, which features an adhesive surface. This means the inner diameter can be reduced according to the lens diameter, thus supporting multiple lenses. The GumGum also protects against scratches and other damage to the focus ring of the lens.

PRODUCT FEATURES:

Quick mounting – no tools needed
Made of lightweight aluminum
Hardened surface coating
Features a 0.8 pitched gear
Follow focus runs smoother than ever before
No more screwdrivers, worn-out belts or protruding straps

The ZEISS Lens Gear Rings will be available April 21, 2016. Click here for more information.

ZEISS has also announced bundles for the Loxia, Milvus, and Otus lens ranges.

Loxia Lens Bundles are available in 2 or 3 Lens Sets and include a custom Transport Case with removable soft side bag, ZEISS ND Lens Gears and De-Click Keys.

Milvus Lens Bundles are available in ZE or ZF.2 versions and include a choice of 3-6 lenses, with ZEISS ND Lens gears.

Otus Lens Bundles are available in ZE or ZF.2 versions in 2 or 3 Lens Sets and include a custom Transport Case and ZEISS ND Lens Gears.

Sony Announces FS RAW Upgrade for PXW-FS5 (NOW AVAILABLE!)

Posted on April 18, 2016September 22, 2016 by TMS Staff

Sony has released the CBKZ-FS5RIF $600 Update for the PXW-FS5 and PXW-FS5K that enables 2K and 4K RAW recording via the 3G SDI port out to a compatible recorder such as the Odyssey7Q+ or Atomos Shogun.

4K RAW output
The CBKZ-FS5RIF upgrade licence allows the PXW-FS5 to output 4K (4096×2160) RAW at 23.98p, 25p, 29.97p, 50p and 59.94p, recording to the AXS-R5 external recorder attached with the HXR-IFR5 interface unit (sold separately), or with a compatible recorder such as the Odyssey7Q+.

Simultaneous XAVC HD internal recording
While outputting 4K/2K RAW to the AXS-R5, it is possible to simultaneously record XAVC HD on SD memory cards in the camcorder’s internal dual media slots.

4K cached RAW output
Approximately 4 seconds of cached 4K RAW can be output at 100 or 120 fps as 23.98p, 25p, 29.97p or 59.94p.

Continuous high speed 2K RAW output
You can output continuous 2K RAW at 100, 120, 200 or 240 fps as 23.98p, 25p, 29.97p or 59.94p.

The CBKZ-FS5RIF RAW Update for the PXW-FS5 and PXW-FS5K requires Version 2.0 Firmware which is now available for download here. This update includes an auto ND function that changes the strength of the electronic ND filter so that exposure can be adjusted without effecting aperture of shutter speed values. There is also expanded zebra function and GPS capability. Firmware Version 2.0 is a free update.

Purchase the CBKZ-FS5RIF FS RAW Interface Upgrade License from Texas Media Systems!

Download the Sony Firmware Update Version 2.0 for PXW-FS5 and PXW-FS5K

Purchase the Sony PXW-FS5 XDCAM Super 35 Camera System

Purchase the Sony PXW-FS5K XDCAM Super 35 Camera w/ 18-105mm Lens

Canon Announces Compact-Servo 18-80mm Zoom Lens

Posted on April 18, 2016August 31, 2016 by TMS Staff

Canon has pulled the curtain on its newest lens, one that will bridge the gap between traditional Canon EF Photography Lenses and CN-E Cinema Lenses. The Compact-Servo 18-80mm T4.4 EF lens (Preorder here) combines the benefits of compact size and light weight (only 2.7 lbs.) for outstanding mobility. Designed to shoot video, this lens can be ideal for the cinematographer moving up from EF lenses, combining the functionality of Canon’s EF lenses with the video shooting features of Cinema lenses.

The Compact-Servo 18-80mm T4.4 Zoom Lens is a cinema-style lens that includes a newly developed servo drive unit and incorporates Image Stabilization and Autofocus functionality. The lens also supports 4K image productions and was designed to be able to be utilized in a variety of shooting styles, including both large and small productions. Canon seems to be targeting C100, C300, C500 users who aren’t able to justify the $20,000-$60,000 for a Cine-Servo Lens.

The Compact-Servo 18-80mm Zoom Lens is compatible with EF- mount Super 35mm large-format cameras, and maintains brightness across the entire focal range at T4.4 (equivalent to F4.0). The lens even possesses optical image stabilization, something not normally found on cine lenses. Filmmakers can control many of the features of the lens through the EF-mount communication, including Dual Pixel CMOS AF, push auto iris, record start and stop and remote lens control via the camera with an optional remote control, compensation for chromatic aberration (when paired with the EOS C300 Mark II Cinema Camera), metadata acquisition, and selection of T-number display. The nine-blade iris aperture diaphragm will give footage a “cinematic” look and feel, while providing a “bokeh” effect in out-of-focus areas.

An optional servo grip is available (ZGC-C10), which adds ENG-style control and operation. It can even be mounted to the end of a shoulder rig for more versatility and comfort. The Compact-Servo 18-80 is also compatible with other servo grips, such as the ZSD-300D and FPD-400D.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS:

Mount Type – EF
Focal Length – 18 to 80 mm
Zoom Ratio – 4.4x
Image Circle – 31.4 mm
Coverage – Super 35 / APS-C
Maximum Relative Aperture – T4.4 (f/4)
Number of Aperture Blades – 9
Angle of View – 24.6 x 13.8mm Imaging Area (1.78:1 Aspect Ratio):
68.7° x 41.9° at 18mm
17.5° x 9.9° at 80mm

26.2 x 13.8mm Imaging Area (1.9:1 Aspect Ratio):
72.1° x 41.9° at 18 mm
18.6° x 9.9° at 80 mm

Minimum Object Distance – 1.7′ (0.5 m)
Object Dimensions at M.O.D. – 24.6 x 13.8mm Imaging Area (1.78:1 Aspect Ratio):
17.1 x 9.6″ (43.4 x 24.3 cm) at 18mm
3.7 x 2.1″ (9.5 x 5.3 cm) at 80mm

26.2 x 13.8mm Imaging Area (1.9:1 Aspect Ratio):
18.2 x 9.6″ (46.2 x 24.3 cm) at 18 mm
4.0 x 2.1″ (10.1 x 5.3 cm) at 80 mm
Front Lens Diameter – 84 mm
Filter Thread – 77 mm
Dimensions – 3.7 x 4.2 x 7.2″ (9.34 x 10.72 x 18.23 cm)
Weight – 2.65 lb (1.2 kg)

Pre-Order the Canon Compact-Servo CN-E 18-80mm T4.4 L IS KAS S Lens

Obtain Broadcast-Quality Zoom Controls on the Sony FS5 with the VariZoom VZ-Rock

Posted on April 13, 2016September 22, 2016 by TMS Staff

Get the most out of your Sony PXW-FS5 with the VariZoom VZ-Rock! VariZoom’s most popular LANC unit offers the finest degree of control and a complete feature set! With its wide-sweep zoom rocker, the VZ-Rock combines the attributes of broadcast controls with a compact, affordable design. Also included are record, focus control, Auto/Manual focus switch, onscreen data toggle, rec search, standby control, and LED indicator.

The VZ-Rock LANC camera lens zoom control utilizes a pressure-sensitive, side-to-side rocker switch, much like one would find in broadcast lens controls. This rocker has a greater range of motion for a finer degree of zoom control. Greater control means smoother zooms at more accurate speeds. Maintaining a constant speed is a breeze on the VZ-Rock, producing a more professional-looking result than the standard zoom controls on the FS5!

Paring the VZ-Rock with the Sony PXW-FS5 makes the perfect set-up for any type of production. Attach the VZ-Rock to the arm of a tripod, and use it to quickly and easily access many of the major camera functions without having to touch the camera. Zoom in and out, quickly focus your shot, and then press record/pause all from one convenient device!

SONY PXW-FS5 XDCAM SUPER 35 CAMERA SYSTEM

SONY PXW-FS5K XDCAM SUPER 35 CAMERA W/ 18-105MM LENS

SONY PMW-F55 & PXW-FS5 CAMERA BUNDLE