Category Archives: Hardware Development

Chronos 1.4 Mods Make Improvements!

Chronos 1.4 Mods

We would like to share a few modifications users of the Chronos 1.4 have made to the camera in the few short weeks they have had to put it through its paces.  In our case, we got the Pro AM 5″ Sunshade for LCD screens and had great success curing what could have been a big nuisance for the camera.  In bright daylight, the Chronos screen completely washes out like most phones out there and makes it impossible to judge focus, controls and reviewing clips.

There are also case mods and more strap accessories that have made the camera better.   While the software is still in the early stages, the camera is fully functional and has been able to deliver outstanding image quality.  There are a few image artifacts that firmware will address in the future, that are pushing back our full review of the camera. For those that have been asking, rest assured we are on it! → Continue Reading Full Post ←

Sony IMX183 ExmorR Could Be In New RX Series!

Sony IMX183 ExmorR

Sony Semiconductor division has announced the new  IMX183CLK-J “Mono” &  IMX183CQJ-J “Color” Sensors in 1″ size. The sensor seems to be a step up compared to the ones used in the last RX100 and RX10 camera series.  While there is no mention in the press release of a stacked combo; the sensor itself should be able to be built on a high speed stacked memory package which should allow extreme frame rates at HD resolutions.

The sensor used in the RX100 V, for example, is a 1″ Exmor RS which allows for HDR capture in both photo and video modes. The new sensors announced are of the R variety “No video HDR” which could mean another variation of the sensor will debut with the RX100 VI.   Considering the cameras are due for a refresh this year we expect Sony to up the ante when it comes to read-out data speeds and use their stacking technology. → Continue Reading Full Post ←

AXIOM Beta Camera Kit in Production!

AXIOM Beta

The Axiom Apertus camera project is progressing forward with the completion of 25 developer Beta kits to backers of the camera. It is a working model without a final case and with ongoing software development. The camera is functional and has a Sony E-Mount at the moment but with the ability to change the mount if needed. The camera color science is being coded by A1ex of magic lantern fame. It will be a possibility to use digital “Film Stocks” at the push of a button to be able to match certain looks.

The footage from the beta camera is quite good with excellent film like characteristics in a 10-13 stop range.  There is a cinema camera feel that is absent from other cheaper camera options in the ILC and DSLR Camps.  The closest look is that from Blackmagic Design’s Cinema camera options.  When it comes to frame rates the Beta camera does 60fps full HD out of the HDMI but not much else. → Continue Reading Full Post ←

Chronos Camera Must Have Accessories!

Chronos Camera Must Have Accessories

So now that many Kickstarter backers have received the Chronos 1.4 including HSC, we have had a few days to test it out and see what kind of accessories the camera needs to be customized for full usability.  There are quite a few hardware cages that may fit it but we rather use the camera as is with some clever low-cost fixes.

The camera is performing well with operation being solid for the 4 days we have taken it through its paces.  Some things do scream out as essentials in order for the camera to be safe from drops and shield it from the sun in order to see the LCD screen properly which is not particularly good in direct sunlight as most LCDs suffer from this. → Continue Reading Full Post ←

Panasonic EVA1 has 2k 240fps Spec!

Panasonic EVA1

The Panasonic AU-EVA1 Super 35mm Cinema Camera is a first for the company in several key fronts. For starters, it is abandoning the Micro 4/3 sensor in turn for a more industry standard S35 module which has a larger area and in turn much better light gathering power.  Gone also is the micro 4/3 lens mount which Panasonic favors and in its place a Canon EF Electronic mount which could have been called blasphemy to see this in a product line of this price range for Panasonic.

Since the sensor-flange distance is increased you will not be able to use the Micro 4/3 or 4/3 lenses you were using with an AF100 for example.  When it comes to slow motion this camera is no slouch with 240fps continuous recording to SDXC II v90 cards in both 2k resolution and full HD 1080p. It is also bringing it to the 4k 50/60p realm which now is becoming commonplace. → Continue Reading Full Post ←

DJI Spark Mini Drone Lacks High Frame Rates!

DJI Spark

The newly announced DJI Spark Selfie Micro-drone is a thing of beauty when it comes to capability vs size.  At just $499 it is also half the price of a DJI Mavic Pro and while it lacks a 3 axis gimbal and extended flight time; this is geared to the people that want a no nonsense experience that is truly portable for their flight camera needs. It has a camera capable of 1080p video of pretty good quality at 30fps.

The downside is that it lacks 4k for one thing and any other frame rates besides 30fps full HD.  It does do  12MP still images with good dynamic range and color accuracy which could become the best use of the drone for markets such as real estate, surveying and aerial imaging that is ready at any moment without the bulk. → Continue Reading Full Post ←