Sony’s high-speed transmitter lets you bolt 5G connectivity onto its cameras: Digital Photography Review
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| Image: Sony |
Previously announced in Japan, Sony is bringing its PDT-FP1 5G transmitter to the United States. The smartphone-shaped transmitter is pointedly not a phone (it cannot make calls) but instead uses its 5G connection to transfer files from compatible Sony cameras to an FTP location. It can also use Sony Creators’ Cloud for enterprise app.
The PDT-FP1’s software can monitor network communications or use the device as an external display while transmitting data. As far as connectivity goes, you can use the device’s built-in eSIM, as well as a nano SIM slot for a physical card. The PDT-FP1 supports both main flavors of 5G (superfast, short-range mmWave and broader-range Sub6) as well as LTE.
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| Image: Sony |
Sony rates the device for about four hours of photo upload time with an LTE connection or two hours of video live streaming, with a charge time of under two hours with the optional 30W quick charger. Regarding transfer speeds, it’s rated for 1.1 Gbps up and 8.1 Gbps down, though real-world performance and use-time may vary.
It has a built-in fan to ensure reliability during long periods of video streaming.
What cameras are compatible? Sony says it will provide a list “in due course,” presumably before its launch date of early summer 2024 in the US. The PDT-FP1 will be available for $1,100.
Sony Electronics Launches a High-Speed 5G Portable Data Transmitter for Still Image and Video Transmission On-Location Shoots
The PDT-FP1 utilizes the power of 5G to enhance professional workflow at live events
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 22, 2024 – Sony Electronics is launching a portable data transmitter, the PDT-FP1, with a unique antenna structure that allows high-speed still image and video data transport over 5G networks¹. With the PDT-FP1, Sony is leveraging 5G mobile technology to enhance professional workflow for broadcasting and news coverage. This wireless communication device allows for real-time transfer of photos and videos and seamless livestreaming via 5G, representing a significant boost in process efficiency for news agencies, photojournalists, corporate or event photographers, broadcast video production and more.
“The PDT-FP1 is a beneficial solution for many uses including live events and productions, newsgathering, sports, faith, weddings, and more. With the PDT-FP1, photographers and videographers can increase their efficiency and productivity on-the-go, without worrying about battery life or demanding environmental conditions,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “In an industry where speed and timeliness are critical, this device is a game changer to allow for an easier and quicker upload and transfer from the field or frontlines to an editor.”
Benefits of the PDT-FP1 include:
- Capture and transmit from virtually anywhere: View and upload media directly from compatible Sony cameras² using the PDT-FP1 as a 5G modem to transfer still and video media and deliver it to any file transfer protocol (FTP) destination. Additionally, using Sony Creators’ Cloud for enterprise app³ brings secure and reliable media transfer through the PDT-FP1 to Sony Cloud services⁴ such as Ci Media Cloud and C3 Portal’s cloud gateway. This allows for ease of use for any photographer/videographer – no longer is there a need to be bound by wired networks or required to pass physical memory cards.
- Use in challenging environments: With optimized battery efficiency and a high threshold for temperatures⁵, the PDT-FP1 can be used, at length, in some of the most demanding conditions.
- Livestream wirelessly: Using 5G, wirelessly livestream video from a wide range of compatible cameras⁶, when paired via HDMI or through Sony still and video cameras when using USB. Real-time messaging protocol (RTMP) streams can be broadcast to social media platforms, freeing operators of traditional constraints when in the field. Additionally, the External Monitor App⁷ can be used as an external monitor while streaming with many pro features.
- Broadcast high-quality, low-latency video: The PDT-FP1’s 5G transmission can be used with Sony’s CBK-RPU7 new remote production unit, to transmit high-quality, low-latency (4k 60p/50p) HEVC video in Sports, Cinematic, Virtual Production, and News environments.
- Monitor on-the-go: Visually monitor the network and communication conditions while shooting, using the dedicated Network Visualizer app. This ensures that the content is being delivered to those who need to see it.
Main Features
- High-speed, low-latency communication, even overseas⁸
With an optimized antenna structure, the PDT-FP1 supports a wide range of bands⁶ such as domestic and international 5G sub6/mmWaveix, 5G standalone networks, and local 5G networks, realizing high-speed, low-latency communication¹. In addition to the plug-in nano SIM card, the PDT-FP1 supports dual SIM with an eSIM that does not need to be inserted or removed. It is also possible to automatically select¹⁰ and prioritize a linexi depending on the network conditions, and switch SIMs to transfer data. -
Cooling fan and duct structure for stable continuous communication
A newly developed cooling fan reduces heat buildup even in environments of up to 104 degrees F¹². Despite its slim body design, the PDT-FP1 has a duct-based structure that efficiently dissipates internal heat, further backing stable and continuous communication. Different operational modes – auto, cooling priority, and silent priority – can be selected to accommodate as best to each location environment. - A simple data transfer workflow by linking with select Sony cameras²
The PDT-FP1’s “Camera wired connection” setting feature simplifies and shortens setup time. The 6.1-inch OLED display can simultaneously display communication quality and file transmission status¹³. The transfer status can be monitored during shooting, so the user does not miss a decisive shooting opportunity. The PDT-FP1 provides operational flexibility. A LAN port connects to a Sony camera to transfer data. A USB Type-C® terminal further supports enhanced Sony camera compatibility, enabling a seamless transfer and tagging workflow. Additionally, the PDT-FP1 has the potential to support HDMI-enabled cameras. In addition, by using the USB Type-C charging terminal and an external power source, the PDT-FP1 can be used to stream and transfer data simultaneously without worrying about battery drain. The device is designed as a camera companion, featuring a screw hole for securing the camera and tripod and a strap hole for attaching cable fixing accessories. Built-in memory of 8GB (RAM)/256GB (ROM) and microSDXC support of up to 1TB enables high-speed processing and storage of large amounts of data¹⁴.
Pricing and Availability
PDT-FP1 is expected to be available in the United States in early-Summer of 2024 for approximately $1099.99 USD.
Notes:
1. 5G network and availability may vary depending on country, carrier and user environment.
2. A list of compatible cameras will be released in due course. Please see the product page for details. https://pro.sony/ue_US/products/wireless-tx-rx-accessories/pdt-fp1
3. For regional app/service availability, check here.
4. Compatible services will be announced sequentially. Please see the product page for details. https://pro.sony/ue_US/products/wireless-tx-rx-accessories/pdt-fp1
5. According to Sony measurement.
6. UDSB with compatible cameras that have UVC/UAC capabilities
7. For more information about the capabilities of External Monitor app, please see the product page for details. Xperia 1 V XQ-DQ54/XQ-DQ62/XQ-DQ72 | Help Guide | Using the External monitor app (sony.net)
8. Please check the product page for compatible bands. https://pro.sony/products/wireless-tx-rx-accessories/
9. The PDT-FP1 supports n257, and the mmWave band support in Japan and the United States (also planned for Europe).
10. As for Auto data SIM switching, settings are required.
11. Requires a contract with a different carrier. Additionally, Sony does not guarantee connection or communication speed in all environments.
12 According to Sony research.
13. In addition to Transfer & Tagging, the target applications include Creators’ Cloud’s mobile application Creators’ App and cloud video production solution Creators’ App for Enterprise.
14. 1 GB = one billion bytes. Actual formatted capacity will be less.
