Technical description

Scientists at Fraunhofer IIS, collaborating across various departments, have developed a wireless HD camera. Housed in the same casing as the high-resolution camera is a transmitter which uses the 1.9–2.7 GHz frequency range and has a power output of approximately 100 mW.

The defining feature of this novel camera technology is the joint implementation of comprehensive image processing capability and a DVB-T modulator in an integrated circuit known as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array). A high-quality MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 video codec was also integrated. All control tasks are coordinated by a real-time operating system. The camera thus combines highly integrated digital, analog and RF circuitry as well as embedded hardware and software.

Added advantages of the camera are its size, weight and power consumption. Measuring no more than 11,2 x 3,8 x 6,2 cm and weighing only 500 g, the camera is suitable for use in hard-to-reach places. For example, it becomes possible to shoot large-scale public events from tall poles or an aircraft. The camera’s low power consumption (14 W) ensures long operating times.

Moreover, the camera can be seamlessly integrated with existing broadcast workflows. For instance, video data is transmitted using application-specific adaptations of the DVB-T standard. This means that the broadcast signal can be displayed on any commercially available DVB-T receiver that supports MPEG-4 AVC/H.264. All important camera parameters can be wirelessly controlled using the 433 MHz or 868 MHz ISM band.

The technological innovations incorporated into this wireless HD camera earned its developers the 2011 “embedded AWARD”.

Specifications

Image sensor: 2/3" one-chip CMOS sensor
Resolution: 2048 x 1080 pixels
Formats: NTSC/PAL, 4:3/16:9; 720p at 50, 59.94 or 60 Hz; 1080i at 50, 59.94 or 60 Hz; 1080p at 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97 or 30 Hz
Video: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 High Profile, Level 4.0 compression (ISO/IEC 14496-10)
Code rate: 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8
Modulation: QPSK, QAM16, QAM64
OFDM: 2k mode
Guard interval: 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32
Channel bandwidth: 7 MHz (6 MHz and 8 MHz to be added)
Frequency range: 1.9–2.7 GHz
Transmitter power output: 100 mW
Remote control: 433/868 MHz ISM band (OOK, FSK, GFSK)
Power supply: 9–36 V, 14 W
Dimensions: 112 mm x 38 mm x 62 mm (excluding lens)
Weight: 300 g (excluding lens)
Lens mount: C mount

Application

The camera is designed primarily for applications in film and television. In producing live TV shows or broadcasting large sports events, the HD camera can deliver supplementary footage and help create unseen angles so as to give viewers a sense of being right in the middle of the action. Three-dimensionality can be added if two cameras are used.

The camera makes it very simple to produce spectacular video of sports events like ski jumping, downhill skiing and motorcycle racing. It could also be used in other scenarios in which a very small camera is needed and no cabling can be laid. For instance, a POV camera installed in an ice hockey goal would yield images from a completely new angle.

In the context of monitoring, reconnaissance and rescue operations, the camera makes it possible for the first time to deliver high-resolution video of the scene of an industrial, natural or other disaster. By supplying detailed aerial views, the camera can aid the work of first responders.

Offer

• Demo unit (integrates with standard broadcast workflows)
• Technology licensing
• Custom adaptation and enhancement
• Individual features can be incorporated into existing cameras