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Canon improves high definition remote control robotic pan-tilt camera performance with new BU-45H (6/6/2008)

Versatile Three-CCD HD Camera in Weatherproof Housing Features Genlock Input, HD-SDI and SD-SDI Output, Remote-Control ND Filter, and "Windshield Wiper"

As video transitions to widescreen 16:9 HD (High-Definition) in every sector of television technology, demand has increased for a versatile and cost-effective HD pan-tilt camera for specialized applications. These applications include POV (Point-Of-View) cameras for traffic and weather monitoring, houses of worship, legislative chambers, high-resolution outdoor security installations, remote-controlled Web cameras, and more. Responding to this demand, Canon U.S.A., Inc., introduced the new BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD 16:9 camera system at the 2008 NAB Show held in Las Vegas, April 14-17 (booth #SU3020). The product leverages Canon's global leadership in advanced optics, camera pan-tilt control technologies and video imaging.

The successor to Canon's highly successful standard-definition NU-700N remote-control robotic pan-tilt camera, the new economical BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD 16:9 camera features a Canon HD camera equipped with three 1/3 inch (1,670,000-pixel) CCDs, a Genuine Canon HD zoom lens with 20X optical zoom ratio (4.5 - 90mm) and a remote-control ND (neutral density) filter. In addition to providing exceptional controllability and smooth pan-tilt motion, the BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD 16:9 camera also offers such advanced features as a Canon Auto Focus function and Canon's sophisticated Image Stabilizer technology.

"Canon recognized the need for a cost-effective, high-definition robotic camera system in a rugged outdoor housing," noted Gordon Tubbs, director, Broadcast and Communications Division, Canon U.S.A. "The BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD camera combines Canon's sophisticated pan-tilt technologies with its world-renowned optical and HD camera technologies to produce an economical, turn-key solution that is completely designed and manufactured by Canon."

The Canon BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD camera, which is powered by 12V DC current, also provides genlock input for video system synchronization. Outputs include HD-SDI and SD-SDI with embedded audio or standard-definition composite NTSC. The BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD camera can output HD-SDI and NTSC simultaneously for high-definition recording and standard-definition monitoring at the same time. The BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD camera is capable of panning 340 degrees and tilting 80 degrees (30 degrees up, 50 down). Its outdoor pan-tilt head and weatherproof housing are designed for operation from -15 to +40 degrees Celsius (5 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit). The BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD camera's housing also meets the IP-45 specifications for dust- and waterproof-efficiency, and it has a "windshield-wiper" blade to keep its lens port clear. The total weight of the pan-tilt system, camera and housing is 17 kg. (approximately 37 lbs.).

The Canon BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD camera's control protocol is non-proprietary and open; users or system integrators can interface the camera with their own control system or that of third-party providers to create a robotic control system. The BU-45H remote-control robotic pan-tilt HD camera can be operated in automatic mode or all of its main features can be controlled manually as well. Short and long-distance control systems interface via RS-422 connections. An optional third-party E/O (electrical-to-optical) converter is available to enable worldwide connectivity via fiber optics or a connection to the Canon Canobeam DT-150 HD wireless video transceiver for transmission at distances of up to one kilometer.

www.usa.canon.com

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