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VariCam software update available!
I talked to the marvellous Jeff Merrit at NAB and he told me there is a software update available for our VariCams.
The update covers three things:
1. Fixed 50p situation that PAL users are probably aware of.
2. Better handling of compression artifacts in dark areas of image, which I’m sure most of us have seen. This is not magic, but should give better results.
3. You can now program the User buttons to set a particular frame rate. This is useful if you want to really quickly change to 48 frames per second — you can now just program one of the User buttons for this function.The update is free if your camera is still under warranty. Otherwise it has a cost of approx. $260 USD. The camera needs to go to a Panasonic Service Center, and should have a 24 hour turnaround. If your camera was shipped after Christmas 2004, the software version should already be installed.
–rune
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7 Replies
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Hi Rune,
I got the same information from Jeff; definitely sounds like a worthwhile upgrade and I’ll be sending my camera in as soon as I can schedule.Good shooting!
Leo
Director/Cinematographer
Southeast USA -
Hello All,
Thanks to Rune and Leo for bringing this information to the COW. I just want to clarify that this software upgrade is actually included effective with cameras shipped in November 2004 beginning with serial number K4THB0001. Cameras shipped in December 2004 would begin with serial number L5THB0001 which of course are included as are all cameras currently shipping.
Also, the price of $260 for cameras out of warranty includes VTR cleaning, software upgrade, and testing before being returned to the owner. If the camera is out of warranty, then the owner pays for shipping both ways. But if the camera is still in warranty(one year from date of purchase) then the owner needs only pay for shipping to the Panasonic Service Center.
In either case, please call Panasonic Service ahead to schedule the upgrade so we can honor the 24-hour turn around.
We had a great NAB and I was particularly happy to see so many VariCam owner/operators and VariCam users. For those who attended the Final Cut Pro Users Group meeting at the Stardust–What A Hoot.
I did get many questions about when and where the next VariCamp will be held. Please take a look a http://www.hdexpo.net for a complete schedule for the rest of the year.
Best regards and good shooting!
Jeff Merritt
Product Line Business Manager
High Definition Products
Panasonic Broadcast
323-436-3676 -
I have never used Panasonic’s service. Does anyone have some contact info?
Chris Bell
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Jeff
Do I have to get the camera to you before the warranty expires or can I just schedule it before that date? My warranty is up in a week or so time?
Best
John Chater -
Panasonic has two service centers that can take care of your camera; Los Angeles, CA and Secaucus, NJ. LA Service phone is 323-436-3507 and the Secaucus Service is 201-348-7975. Again, please call ahead to schedule your upgrade.
Regards,
Jeff Merritt
Product Line Business Manager
High Definition Products
Panasonic Broadcast
323-436-3676 -
Hi John,
Since you’re so close in time I suggest you contact Panasonic Service ASAP to schedule your upgrade. The phone numbers for the Ease Coast and West Coast were posted previously.
Thanks,
Jeff Merritt
Product Line Business Manager
High Definition Products
Panasonic Broadcast
323-436-3676 -
Hi Rune !
Is this upgrade availiable for Europe based Varicams ?Thanks !
Polyvios Symeonides
MS Viewpoint
Varicam-Cyprus
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