Panasonic P2HD AG-HPX171, Manual

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20 Step Variable Frame Rate
Panasonic’s VariCam — named for its ground-breaking variable
frame rate capability — is widely used in the production of
movies, TV programs and commercials. The first application of
the variable frame rate function to a handheld camera came with
the AG-HVX200 Series, and proved extremely popular. It has now
been further expanded to 20 step selection* in the AG-HPX171.
In 720p mode*, the AG-HPX171 allows the undercranking and
overcranking that are used with film cameras to create fast-
motion and slow-motion effects.
*In 1080 and 480 mode on 59.94Hz system mode, the frame rate can be set only to 24p or
30p. In 1080 and 576 mode on 50Hz system mode, the frame rate can be set only to 25p.
•Normal cinematic shooting (at 24 fps or 30 fps) refers to the
same rate as used in film cameras. The AG-HPX171 can record in
1080/24p (over 60i) or 480/24p (over 60i) mode, as well as
720/24p mode. 25 fps or 30 fps is the standard frame rates used
in the production of TV commercials, music clips and video
software. The AG-HPX171 can also record in 1080/25p (over 50i),
1080/30p (over 60i), 576/25p (over 50i) or 480/30p (over 60i)
mode, as well as 720/25p and 720/30p mode.
•Higher-speed shooting (at over 25 fps*) produces slow-motion
effects.
This is especially effective for high-action scenes like car chases
or crashes, or to create a dramatic impact in a scene.
*When the standard speed is 24 fps in 59.94Hz mode. For a standard speed of 25 fps in
50Hz mode, anything over 26 fps will be overcranked.
•Lower-speed shooting (at under 22 fps*) lets you attain a fast-
motion effect. This technique can be combined with a warp-
speed effect to give special emphasis to flowing water, fast-
moving clouds, etc.
*When the standard speed is 24 fps in 59.94Hz mode. For a standard speed of 25 fps in
50Hz mode, anything under 24 fps will be undercranked.
720p Native Mode
In Native mode, the AG-HPX171 records images at the frame rate
set in the camera. For example in 24pN mode, it only records
24 frames instead of the normal 60 frames*. Using the
AG-HPX171 to play back the recording at the normal rate,
you can preview the speed effect right on the spot, without using
a frame rate converter. Native mode also extends the recording
time of a P2 card.
*In 25pN mode in 50Hz system mode, AG-HPX171 records only 25 frames instead of the
normal 50 frames.
720p over 50p/60p Mode
This is a VariCam-compatible mode for recording 50p/60p-
converted video. For example, in 24p over 60p mode, it records
60 frames by applying a 2:3 pulldown. The recording time is the
same as in 1080i or 720p mode, but the unit can output a
DVCPRO HD stream from the IEEE 1394 connector as it records.
This lets you produce a backup copy using a connected external
DVCPRO HD recorder or P2 recorder such as P2 mobile,
P2 portable or P2 gear.
VariCam Style Expression
with Expanded, 20-Step
Variable Frame Rate Selection