Xavier University, annually ranked among the USA's best universities, has chosen Ikegami HDK-99 cameras as part of an upgrade to its athletics live production facilities. The cameras will be deployed for live-to-air program production and in-venue videoboard productions at Cintas Center and other athletics venues. The accompanying image shows a tripod-mounted Ikegami HDK-99 camera in position to televise Xavier Musketeers sports.
"Dockable cameras were the logical choice because they can be operated in studio, stage or outdoor locations," says the Cintas Center's senior associate technical director, Chris Schaaf. "Ikegami's HDK-99 camera systems tick every box in terms of image quality, versatility, ease of control and physical robustness. They incorporate all the creative tools we desired, while also being easy to use for less experienced operators. Ease of setup, along with fantastic build quality, make them a great choice for college sports where it’s not a matter of if but when the camera will take a hit from someone or something. We’re confident that these systems can stand up to the rigors of sports production.
"We have invested in five complete HDK-99 systems. One of their main applications will be to televise Xavier's intercollegiate athletics. That can be very demanding in terms of picture detail, fast action, wide variations in video contrast and the need for accurate color rendition. The cameras produce a good image from the moment they power up. A minimal amount of tweaking turns that good image into a great image.
"Future-proofing was a key consideration in this purchase choice given the rollout of new television production and display standards. Each HDK-99 provides full support for high-bandwidth 3G-SDI HD production in standard dynamic range, high dynamic range and wide color gamut. We also have the option to purchase a license key which provides a UHD output at the base station from an HD source, processing very cleanly from 2K to 4K resolution. That makes the transition from HD to UHD production very affordable if or when we transition to the new standard."
The Ikegami HDK-99 incorporates three 2/3-inch 2.6 megapixel CMOS sensors, each capable of capturing full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution images at greater than 600% dynamic range and a sensitivity of F11 at 60 Hz combined with high signal-to-noise ratio and modulation depth. 1080p, 1080i and 720p HD formats are supported. The HDK-99 connects to the compact and lightweight BSX-100 base station using up to 6,500 feet of SMPTE camera cable with integral power or up to 6 miles using single-mode fiber and local power. An optional board provides 12G SDI outputs from the BSX-100, allowing an affordable transition from HD to UHD production. An optional MoIP board is also available to transition to ST.2110 IP connectivity.
The HDK-99 provides an HLG mode conforming to the ITU-R BT.2100 international standard for high dynamic range. Wide color gamut is also supported. Up to five HDR gamma curves can be loaded into the camera for instant switchover to high dynamic range operation in different standards.
Core of the HDK-99 is the AXII processor which can perform high speed processing of super high resolution video signals in various formats and frame rates. It also provides real-time 16-axis color correction allowing fine tuning of hue and saturation which is especially useful in live multi-camera applications. The AXII additionally delivers an improved focus assist function.
About Ikegami
Ikegami is a leading supplier of high-quality professional broadcast equipment. The Ikegami name is recognised globally for state-of-the-art television cameras, medical cameras and CCTV equipment. World-class CMOS imagery, 4K and 8K technology, multi-format flexibility and unparalleled customer support define the Ikegami experience for users in broadcast, sports venues, mobile production, houses of worship, education, corporate and many more applications.
