[Sb Elcap]

Thanks, Craig, the information you provided was extremely helpful. You can be sure that I’ll be asking politely for a new replacement unit!

[Sb Elcap]

I just did an A to B comparison of the Panasonic HVX 200 and the Sony EX1. Not scientific, perhaps, but telling.

Set both cameras up on the same scene, and display was a new Samsung 40″ 1080p monitor. Component out on both cameras.

Scenes also captured and put into FCP 6 for comparison. Also transfered some “hero shots,” from both cameras.

Results: EX1 image noticeably sharper, significantly greater latitude in shaded areas. Hands down better image on the EX1. Easier to focus (the EX1 focus enhancement system really does work).

Input to FCP was “easier” using XDCAM Transfer – and the HVX200 footage needed to be rendered (using a 1080p timeline).

And now for the good news.

During comparison test, the brand new EX 1 failed. Lens servo broke or something – back focus completely out; would zoom out, but not in. Almost seemed like it was stuck in “macro,” which was ‘floating.’ When panned, objects appeared to “fly through” the frame – as if the steady shot feature was failing to center the image. Totally weird behavior.

Sony phone support talked me through a nifty procedure: push the “menu,” “select,” and “cancel” buttons, all at the same time. This brings up a whole new level of diagnostics and, as the tech told me, “stuff you shouldn’t fool around with.”

He did have me go the “M” (for “Maintenance”) menu, where the “FB adjust” function can be found (I’m not 100% sure I got the acronym correct – I mailed the camera to Sony within a short time of doing this diagnostic, and didn’t write down the exact menu command – it’s the last one in the “M” list, if I recall). “Execute” will cause the camera to rack focus and focal length repeatedly as it, I guess, adjusts back focus. It failed on my camera – it either hung, with “executing,” displayed, or it displayed the error message, “NG – timeout.”

So, when I talked to the folks at the San Jose Sony service center (the only place in the U.S. that is servicing the camera) I got the distinct impression that this was a known issue. My camera serial number ends in 375, which leads me to believe it’s ‘early’ in the series.

Can anyone point me to locations (other forums, weblink, etc.) where a failed lens servo is discussed?

Thanks,
sbelcap