Sony is pleased to announce the new PXW-FS7 firmware version 3.0. The development process for the new firmware is a result of the tight relationship Sony has with their customers. Many of the new features were requested by them. This new build is the result of a major commitment made by SONY DI to continually add powerful functionality, life and value to the FS7. SONY DI not only invested in adding major functionality and value to the FS7, but also subtle optimizations that further improve efficiency and ease of use. Best of all, this firmware upgrade is FREE.

Focus Magnification function is improved .

· The 4x and 8x magnification windows can now be repositioned on the viewfinder display using the joystick on the SmartGrip, even while recording.

· The position of the Magnification Window is retained until it’s reset to the center of the frame by pressing the joystick IN.

· Image quality of the viewfinder’s Magnification Window is improved for ease of critically adjusting focusing.

· A bright yellow frame surrounding the VF image prevents the operator from incorrectly framing by continue recording while the focus magnification is still ON.

Added “2K Full”, “2K Center” image sensor scan function

· 2K Full Scan Mode reads the full Super35mm sensor area as 2K resolution instead of 4K.

· 2K Center crops the scan area to a 2K (2048x1080) area in the center of the sensor. This mode enables use of lenses projecting a smaller image circle i.e. Super16mm or 2/3-inch (B4) zoom lenses. Super16mm and B4 zoom lenses are smaller, lighter, have a wider focal range and deeper depth of field than Super 35mm equivalents, a boon for shooting, Vérité, sports and nature.

· 2K Center Scan also effectively doubles the magnification (2x zoom in) of 35mm Still and Cine prime or zoom lenses without any light loss. For example, a 24mm prime’s effective angle of view becomes the same as that of a 48mm and a 24mm to 105mm zoom’s effective angle of view is equivalent to that of a 48mm to 210mm zoom.

Added Interval (time lapse) recording function

· The Interval recording feature controls how often and how many frames per shot, plus it can also trigger an optional lighting fixture.

· Interval duration is selectable from one shot per sec up to one shot every 24h.

· The number of frames recorded each interval is selectable: 1, 3, 6 or 9 frames.

· Pre-lighting controls the ON timing of an attached light fixture via the camera’s MI Shoe. Pre-lighting duration is selectable: 2, 5 or 10 sec. seconds.

Expanded lowest value of Zebra 1 & 2 level to 0% (range 0~109)

· Both zebra 1 & 2 can be set at aby level between 0% and 109%; vastly simplifying exposure setting for any gamma setting.

Added Noise Suppression selection to Cine EI recordings

· It is now possible to apply Noise Suppression to Cine EI recordings. Noise Suppression level is selectable: OFF, LOW, MEDIUM & HIGH

Video Signal Monitor usability is improved,

· It is now possible to view WFM on the LCD while shooting Cine EI with a Monitor-LUT applied to the VF.

Improved the feel and precision of the Iris and Assignable dials.

· The acceleration, ballistics (when whipping) and sensitivity of the Iris and assignable dials is optimized.

FS-RAW image quality and operation stability improvement.

· The image quality of 240fps FS RAW recording is improved.

Overall stability and operability of the camera is improved

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Many additional improvements such as faster menu response and reduced rebooting time are implemented.