Panasonic AGDVC30E5 User Manual

Mini

Digital
Video
Cassette

AG-

Mini-DV Camera-Recorder (PAL)

Meet the compact DV camer a for
professional use. Featuring a wide-angle 16x
optical zoom lens and a 3CCD camera system
with broadcast-grade image quality and superb sensitivity, the
compact A G-D VC30 caters to the needs of professional users
with multiple shooting modes and versatile system expandability.

Multiple modes meet professional needs, backed by
the beautiful images of a wide-angle 16x zoom lens
and 3CCD

The Leica Dicomar 16x optical zoom lens covers the shooting range that
professionals require, from wide angle to telephoto. A 3CCD camera
system with broadcast-level resolution (470,000 pixels) and RGB gamma
processor produce class-leading image quality, sensitivity, and low noise.
Added to this are an ultra-sensitive and dramatic slow shutter mode
(accumulative), a Cine-Like gamma curve, film-like 30-fps frame
recording, and the world's first* infrared nighttime shooting mode (B&W)
in a 3CCD camera-recorder. This long list of shooting modes and features
makes the AG-DVC30 ideal for professional use.

*According to a Panasonic survey

Professional Performance

Professional Performance

nal Compact

Total mobility? Easy carrying? Or advanced audio specs?
With the multi-style handle, the choice is yours.

Designed with the professional in mind, the AG-DVC30 introduces a new
detachable handle that adds versatility by letting you use this compact DV
camera three different ways.

Style 1: With handle detached, this super-compact 3CCD camera fits
easily into a bag or pack for highest mobility.

Style 2: With handle in place, the AG-DVC30 is easy to carry and easy to
use, even when shooting at difficult angles.

Style 3: With the optional XLR adapter mounted on the handle,
the AG-DVC30 has outstanding audio specs, plus the ability to add two
external phantom mics or line inputs with "glow in the dark"
level controls.

Professional Design

Professional Design

Style 1

Style 2

Style 3

Wide-Angle, High-Magnification Leica 16x Zoom Lens

The AG-DVC30's Leica Dicomar 16x
optical zoom lens answers a broad range of
shooting needs, delivering superb results
from 39.5mm wide angle all the way to
632mm telephoto (both 35mm lens
equivalents). In wide-angle performance —
critical in broadcast and other professional
applications — this lens is tops in its class.
Behind this outstanding performance are the
advanced optical technologies and expertise that have made Leica Camera
AG one of the most respected names in the camera world. This new 16x
optical zoom lens system uses low-dispersion glass and aspherical lenses to
reduce colour aberration and boost resolution. Use of a special multi-coating
process dramatically reduces flare and ghosts. The result: sharp, crisp,
beautifully rendered pictures with vivid colours, delicate nuances, and
exceptional shading.

*Leica and Dicomar are registered trademarks of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.

Optical Image Stabilizer Compensates for Hand Shaking

The AG-DVC30's advanced Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) compensates for
hand shaking that occurs as you shoot. A gyrosensor detects hand-shake and
sends signals to a linear motor, which adjusts the lens to compensate.
Because this process takes place prior to the CCD image capture (rather than
in the downstream electronic processing), it virtually eliminates any effect of
hand-shake on resolution and screen angle. The OIS can also be helpful
when zooming or shooting in dim lighting.

1/4-Inch, 470,000-Pixel 3CCD Image System:
High Sensitivity, Low Noise

To assure a level of picture quality suitable
for professionals, the AG-DVC30 uses a
3CCD image system that delivers the highest
sensitivity in its class. Its high S/N ratio and
extremely low noise (in darker areas of a
picture) combines with high sensitivity to
deliver excellent image quality even when
shooting indoors under dim lighting. When
shooting in sunlight or under bright
spotlights, this 3CCD system offers low smear.

12-bit A/D and RGB Gamma Processor

The AG-DVC30 features an A/D converter
that uses the same 12-bit processing as
broadcast-quality camera-recorders. This,
combined with an RGB gamma processor
that uses Panasonic's unique gamma curve
function, helps assure high-image-quality
processing. In fact, the AG-DVC30's A/D
converter and RGB gamma processor are the
same ones used in our popular AG-DVX100B, which has won acclaim as
the industry's highest image quality DV camera.

A Digital Zoom for Professionals

Engineered for professionals, the AG-DVC30 is equipped with a digital
zoom that instantly magnifies the image by any of
five fixed values — 1.25x, 1.5x, 2x, 5x or 10x. Use it
together with the 16x optical zoom lens, and you get
super-telephoto magnification
equivalent to a 160x zoom. Image
degradation during the digital
processing is particularly low in the

1.25x magnification mode, so you
get superb zoom quality all the way
to 20x.

Movie Simulation Mode

The AG-DVC30 can capture and reproduce images that are strikingly similar
in tone to film images, thanks to Panasonic's unique Cine-Like gamma curve
and a 25-fps frame recording function that electronically interpolates
interlaced images to create frames with no time differences between fields.*
Settings for this mode are preset in the Movie-Like scene file.

*The resulting images are not the same as native progressive images recorded with a progressive CCD.

High-Sensitivity Slow Shutter

The slow shutter function uses image accumulation
to allow shutter speeds with frame rates reduced
by half or more. The accumulation method
provides bright-colour images with
less noise than those captured
using conventional gain-up, so you
get the higher sensitivity needed for
nighttime shooting without
illumination. The slow shutter
function can also be used to obtain
movie-like effects.

16:9 Wide Recording

The aspect ratio can be set to either 4:3 or 16:9 to
accommodate wide-image recording.
In 16:9 recording, you can select either letterbox or
squeeze mode, giving you more
possibilities in downstream editing
and playback.

Outstanding Image Quality, Sensitivity and Wide-Angle Framing — Plus Extra Versatility

Zero Lux IR Mode (Super Nighttime Shooting System)

The AG-DVC30 is the world's first*
3CCD camera-recorder to offer B&W
recording in the dark using infrared
light. This opens the door to a host of
new possibilities in nighttime
monitoring, surveillance and news
gathering. The built-in infrared light
makes it possible to record at a
distance of about 5 m*.

*According to Panasonic testing

Date/Time Superimpose
Function

The AG-DVC30 can superimpose the date and time onto the video signal
as you shoot. This is especially useful and in many cases a requirement for
depositions, court reporting and surveillance recordings. The date and time
cannot be replaced during dubbing or editing operations, as can happen
with most other cameras.

NORM

CINE-LIKE

Output

Input

Gamma Curve and Images (conceptual)

Optical Image Stabilizer

aspherical lens

x 20 Zoom Image

Wide (x 1)

Image

NORM

CINE-LIKE

Slow Shutter Image

Gain Up Image

16:9 Squeeze

4:3

16:9 Letter Box

*Image of Zero Lux IR Mode and
date/time superimpose.

Operability

Professional System Functions and Easy Operartion

Professional Audio Quality with XLR Mic (Optional)

The AG-DVC30 comes
equipped with a built-in stereo
microphone. Adding the
optional AG-MYA30G XLR
adapter provides you with +48
V phantom mic and line input
needed for news gathering.
Featuring two XLR audio input
terminals and level controls, the
adapter lets you independently
switch channel 1 or channel 2 to mic or line input, with each having its
own "glow in the dark" level adjustment.

Audio Level Meters

Two colour audio level meters can be displayed in the viewfinder and LCD
monitor, making it easy to check the signal as you record.

Full Auto or Manual Shooting

Use the AG-DVC30 for either full auto or manual shooting.
The Auto/Manual switch turns the four auto functions — focus, shutter
speed, iris & gain, and white balance — on and off as desired. Manual
focusing is controlled by the large focus ring. You can also switch between
manual and auto focus by pushing the Focus button. For added
convenience, one of the user buttons can be assigned to turn auto focus on
and off.

Multi-Function Focus Ring

In Auto Focus, control over either the zoom or the iris & gain can be
allocated to the focus ring, letting you make quick, detailed adjustments
manually.

Focus Assist with One-Push Zoom

When a user button is assigned the PUSH AF+ZOOM function and
the AG-DVC30 is in Auto Focus, the camera will continue to zoom as long
as you hold the button down, then return to the original zoom position
when you release it. This helps you zoom and focus more quickly in
manual shooting mode.

Three User-Assignable Buttons

The AG-DVC30 provides three user buttons that can be assigned to any of 16
camera functions and three VCR functions. User button 1 is positioned atop
the hand grip for easy access when shooting with one hand.

Camera functions: PUSH AF+ZOOM, PUSH AF, WHITE BAL, AWB LOCK,
BACKLIGHT, SPOTLIGHT, REC CHECK, D.ZOOM, WHITE FADE, BLACK FADE,
PHOTO SHOT, INDEX, SNS (Super Nighttime Shooting), EVF DTL, LUMI-FLICK,
AE LOCK
VCR functions: BLANK SEARCH, AUDIO DUB, INDEX

WHITE BAL and SNS can be allocated to user button 1 only.

Four Scene Files

The AG-DVC30 can save four sets of camera settings as "scene files" for
instant recall later in similar shooting conditions. Scene files 1 and 2 are
freely settable. Files 3 and 4 are preset (see list below), but you can change
the values as desired.

1 SCENE 1: User setting (standard values)
2 SCENE 2: User setting (standard values)
3 B.PRESS: For sharper contrast in dark portions
4 MOVIE-LIKE: Movie Simulation Mode

Shooting Support Functions

•Backlight correction: Backlighting compensation can be assigned to a user

button for instant results.

•AE Lock: Locks the subject brightness; can be assigned to a user button.

•Zebra: Displays an overexposure warning on the viewfinder and monitor

•Marker: Detects and displays the Video Brightness level in a very useful,

repeatable numerical value.

•Mode check: Displays the camera settings on the viewfinder and monitor,
for easy checking before you shoot.

•Zoom position: Displays the zoom position as a repeatable, numerical
representation in the viewfinder.

IEEE 1394 Terminal with Synchro Lock

An IEEE 1394-compliant 4-pin DV terminal makes it easy to upload data
from the AG-DVC30, or to dub footage onto a DV recorder. This terminal
also features a new synchro lock function that lets you use the AG-DVC30
to remotely start and stop an external DV device.
Three recording modes help protect against mistakes: record onto external
recorder only, record onto both AG-DVC30 and external recorder, begin
external recording when the AG-DVC30 tape ends.

AG-DVC30

DV Cable(4P) (4P)

DV Recorder



Precise Balance

The grip conforms neatly to the hand and is positioned at the camera's
center of gravity for perfect balance. This, plus the AG-DVC30's light
weight — approximately 1 kg — makes it easy to frame shots and shoot
without fatigue.

3.5" Colour LCD Monitor and Tilt-Up Viewfinder

The large 3.5" colour LCD monitor
rotates 270 degrees, making it easy to
shoot at difficult angles and the Mirror
mode makes it easy to record yourself.
The display is bright too, so even
outdoors you get good visibility when
using the LCD to monitor footage or
select settings from the menu. For
added ease of use when taking low­angle shots, you also can tilt the
viewfinder 70 degrees upward.

More Features for Professionals

•Built-in time code generator/reader

•Built-in colour bars - useful for setup

•Shutter: Maximum speed of 1/8,000 sec. When the AG-DVC30 is
recording a computer display, a synchro scan function matches the
shutter speed to the monitor to minimize flicker.

•A second Start/Stop button positioned toward the top front for
easy access

•Index: Insert index points as you shoot - convenient when searching later
(can be assigned to a user button)

•User File: Save sets of camera settings for instant recall

•Line recording: S-Video In/Out, AV In/Out and mic input
terminals provided

Magnesium Alloy Chassis

Designed for professionals,
the AG-DVC30 boasts the same
tough magnesium alloy diecast
chassis as our DVCPRO broadcast
models.
This rigid casing protects the high­precision components from bumps
and jolts, helps shield out interface
and provides the AG-DVC30 with the
reliability and durability needed for
active field use.

Automatic Head Cleaning

The AG-DVC30 provides the same
head cleaning function as our
DVCPRO models.
The white roller pad positioned to the
right of the head cylinder cleans the
head each time you load a tape,
helping to minimize dropouts and
head clogging.

Designed for Prosessionals

Shoulder

strap

Wireless remote

control unit

AC adapter

Battery

AV cables

AC cables

Lens hood

Lens cap

Large eye cup

handle

DC cable

•

Included

A Logical, Intuitive Layout

Viewfinder: Slides and tilts upward.
Large eyecup

Jog dial: To control shutter speed,
manual aperture, and menu selection

Auto/manual focus button,
white balance button

User buttons 2 and 3: Assignable (user
button 1 is on the hand grip)

SNS button:
Zero Lux IR Mode On/Off

3.5-inch
LCD

Lens hood: Resilient
elastomer
(synthetic rubber)

Auto/Manual
switch

Zoom lever

Built-in Stereo mic

Terminals for headphone, digital interface,
and camera remote. Split cover allows
access to headphone terminal only.

S-Video In/Out, Mic In/Out, AV In/Out, XLR
Adapter terminals (XLR Adapter can be
used with cover attached)

REC Start/Stop button:
Convenient when using
a tripod or for low-angle
shooting

Power On/Off, CAM/VTR selector,
REC Start/Stop

Buttons that are
used less are set
inside
the LCD panel

User button 1: assignable

Detachable handle: Quick, secure and
easy detachment – no tools required

[GENERAL]

Supply Voltage: DC 7.2/7.9 V
Power Consumption: 5.0 W (when viewfinder is used)

6.1 W (when LCD monitor is used)

8.5 W (max.)
Operating Temperature: 0°C to +40°C
Operating Humidity: 10% to 85% (no condensation)
Weight: Approx. 1.05 kg

Approx. 1.20 kg with battery and cassette

Dimensions (WxHxD): 110 x 116 (160: with handle) x 235 mm

[CAMERA]

Pick-up Device: 1/4-inch interline transfer type CCD x 3
Picture Elements: Total: 470,000 pixels

Effective: 440,000 pixels (horizontal pixel shift system)

Lens: Leica DICOMAR lens with optical image stabilizer,

motorized/manual mode switching, 16x zoom

F 1.6 (f = 4.1 to 65.6 mm) (35 mm equivalent: 39.5 to 632 mm)
Filter Diameter: 43 mm
Optical Colour Separation: Prism system
ND Filter: Auto On/Off by IRIS
Gain Selection: 0, +3, +6, +9, +12, +15, +18 dB
Shutter Speeds: 1/50, 1/60, 1/120, 1/180, 1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/750,

1/1000, 1/1500, 1/2000, 1/3000, 1/4000, 1/8000 sec.
Synchro Scan Shutter Speeds: 1/50.2 to 1/248 sec.
Slow Shutter Speeds: 1/3, 1/6, 1/12, 1/25 sec.
Minimum luminance: 4 lux (F 1.6, 18 dB gain, 50 IRE video output)

[VTR]

Recording Format: DV (Digital Video SD)
Tape Used: 6.35 mm wide metal tape (mini DV cassette)
Recorded Video Signals: 625/50i (PAL)
Recorded Audio Signals: PCM digital recording

16 bits: 48 kHz/2 channels, 12 bits: 32 kHz/4 channels
Recording Tracks: Digital video, audio signals: helical track

Time code: helical track (sub-code area)
Tape Speed: SP mode: 18.831 mm/sec., LP mode: 12.568 mm/sec.
Recording Time: SP mode: 60 minutes, LP mode: 90 minutes

(when AY-DVM60 is used)
FF/Rew Time: Approx. 140 sec. (when AY-DVM60 is used)

[AUDIO]

Sampling Frequency: 48 kHz/32 kHz
Quantizing: 16 bits/12 bits
Frequency Characteristics: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Wow & Flutter: Below measurable limits

[VIDEO]

Sampling Frequencies: Y: 13.5 MHz, PB/PR: 6.75 MHz
Quantizing: 8 bits
Video Compression System: DCT + variable length code
Error Correction: Reed-Solomon product code

[CONNECTORS]

VIDEO IN/OUT: AV Multi x 1, (input/output automatically switched)

analogue composite input/output, 1.0 Vp-p, 75Ω

S-VIDEO IN/OUT: 4pin x 1, (input/output automatically switched)

Y: 1.0 Vp-p, C: 0.3 Vp-p, 75Ω

AUDIO IN/OUT: AV Multi x 1 (CH1, CH2) (input/output automatically switched)

Input: –10 dBv, high impedance

Output: –10 dBv, low impedance
DV: 4-pin, IEEE 1394 standard, digital input/output
Internal Microphone: Stereo microphone
Outside Microphone: Stereo Mini jack (3.5 mm diameter), –70 dBv
PHONES: Stereo Mini jack (3.5 mm diameter)
XLR Adapter: exclusive 8pin terminal for AG-MYA30G
CAM REMOTE: Mini jack (2.5 mm diameter)
DC INPUT: 2P x 1, 7.9 V

[EQUIPMENTS]

LCD Monitor: 3.5-inch LCD colour monitor, 200,000 pixels
Viewfinder: 0.44-inch LCD colour viewfinder, 180,000 pixels
Internal Speaker: 20mm round shape, volume – or +

*The specifications given above were measured by playing back tapes

recorded by the AG-DVC30 on standard VTRs.

Weight and dimensions shown are approximate.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

AG-DVC30 Specifications

SP-AGDVC30E5

1K607ZM-5 Printed in Japan

AG-DVC30 Accessories

AG-MYA30G

XLR microphone

adapter

AG-MC100G

XLR microphone

AG-B15

AC adapter kit

CGA-D54S

Battery Pack (5400m Ah)

AG-LW4307P

Wide conversion lens

AG-SC100G

Soft carry case

IEEE 1394 Interface cable

CGR-D16S

Battery Pack (1600m Ah)

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
Systems Business Group

2-15 Matsuba-cho, Kadoma, Osaka 571-8503
Japan
Phone [phone] Fax [phone]

https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pro-av/

Argentina [phone]
Australia [phone]
Austria [phone]
Bahrain [phone]
Belgium [phone]
Bulgaria [phone]
China [phone]
(Hong Kong [phone])
Czech Republic [phone]/511
Denmark [phone]
Egypt [phone]
Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia

[phone]
France [phone]
Germany [phone]
Greece [phone]
Hungary [phone]
Indonesia [phone]
Iran [phone]
Italy [phone]
Jordan [phone]
Kazakhstan [phone]

Kuwait [phone]
Lebanon [phone]
Malaysia [phone] (PSE)

[phone] (PM)

Montenegro, Serbia

[phone]
Netherlands [phone]
New Zealand [phone]
Norway [phone]
Pakistan [phone]
Philippines [phone]
Poland [phone]
Portugal [phone]
Romania [phone]
Russia & CIS [phone]
Saudi Arabia [phone]
Singapore [phone]
Slovak Republic [phone]
Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Macedonia

[phone]
South Africa [phone]
Spain [phone]

Sweden [phone]
Switzerland [phone]
Thailand [phone]
Turkey [phone]
U.A.E. [phone]
Ukraine [phone]

[phone]

[ext. 112]

U.K [phone]

[Countries and Regions]

Factories of Systems Business Group have received
ISO14001:2004-the Environmental Management
System certification.

AY-DVM63PQ

Professional Series Tape

AY-DVM63AMQ

Advanced Master
Quality Series Tape

*Please do not use 80 minutes miniDV
cassette tapes

AY-DVMCLC

Cleaning tape

BT-LH2600W

26" HD/SD LCD Monitor

BT-LH1700W

17" HD/SD LCD Monitor

BT-LH900A

8.4" HD/SD LCD Monitor