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  • 20 May 2010 10:18

Panasonic to provide 3D footage first

Sydney, Wednesday, 19 May 2010: The world's first free-to-air 3D broadcast contained footage shot on a revolutionary new Panasonic camcorder, when it was transmitted throughout Australia in the early hours of this morning.

Sydney, Wednesday, 19 May 2010: The world's first free-to-air 3D broadcast contained footage shot on a revolutionary new Panasonic camcorder, when it was transmitted throughout Australia in the early hours of this morning.

Panasonic Australia provided broadcasters with a five-minute clip of scenic views for 3D test transmissions, which was screened from 12AM - the first time 3D content has been beamed to homes in Australia. Test transmissions will run for a period of nine weeks and include a number of upcoming sporting events.

The footage was shot on location in Canada, using the Panasonic AG-3DA1 Full HD 3D camcorder. It was amongst the first footage to be filmed using the camcorder prototype - which contains two lenses, a camera head and memory card reader in a single housing.

Mathew Alexander, Product Manager, Broadcast, Panasonic Australia said it was an exciting opportunity for the company. "There is no better test of this revolutionary technology than the first free-to-air 3D broadcast anywhere in the world," Alexander said.

"This is a historic moment for television, not only in Australia but for the world. We are delighted that we have the opportunity to share in it and position Panasonic as a leader in 3D technology from day one."

The footage was taken by Panasonic in Canada and was amongst the first to be shot on the AG-3DA1 Full HD 3D camcorder. Unlike large 3D camera systems, this camcorder allows video shooting with greater mobility and from all angles; significantly reducing the time required for set up and adjustments, thereby leaving more time for creative activities.

This 3D camcorder is designed for videographers to capture immersive content on the fly, and its availability is expected to accelerate the amount of 3D content being created for broadcast and distribution on new 3D Blu-ray discs. The camcorder was unveiled at CES in the United States in January. Panasonic’s AG-3DA1 will be available in Australia in October 2010.