By Myrna Tobisoo, April 18, 2007
Silicon Imaging, Inc. and P+S Technik announced their strategic partnership to deliver a broad range of solutions for the emerging digital cinema industry. At NAB 2007 they will show several products already resulting from their collaboration. This includes the new ergonomic and modular designed Silicon Imaging SI-2K cameras with interchange lens mount, the 2K-35 format converter for use of 35mm optics to achieve increase depth of field control and the 2K-B4 optical mount, for use of 2/3” cinema lenses. In addition, a variety of tripod mounting, rod support and rig accessories will be shown.
The new SI-2K camera features a solid aluminum machined enclosure complete with tool-less quick-release mechanism for the removal of the remote-head SI-2K MINI from the SI-2K. An integrated P+S Technik interchangeable lens mount system now gives users the unprecedented ability to hot-swap between Arri PL, Nikon F, C, and B4-mounts using the new 2K-B4 lens adapter.
The precision optical block in the 2K-B4 lens adapter removes the aberrations that could occur from using a lens designed for a 3-chip prism system in the SI-2K single-sensor architecture. This enables the use of modern 2/3” digital cinema lens designs, such as those from Panavision, Angeniueux, Zeiss, Fujinon, and Canon.
A next-generation 2K-35 format converter from P+S Technik enables the use of 35mm optics on the SI-2K cameras to maintain the signature “cinema-like” field-of-view and depth-of-field characteristics of large format lenses
. In addition, a new family of 35mm Cinema Prime Lenses, based on the Zeiss ZF series optics, with precision focus gears and distance markings will be offered with the 2K-35, including 25 mm, 35mm, 50mm and 85mm models.
New mounting options for the SI-2K include compatibility with Sony V-mount quick release tripod adapters as well as compatibility with Arri sliding base-plates and accessories. A quick-release rod support system is integrated into the camera body for direct mounting of 15mm lightweight matte-box and follow-focus accessories, without the need for a separate adapter. Rosettes on either side of the SI-2K camera enclosure provide mounting points for handle-grips and trigger mechanisms while the full-length top-handle of the SI-2K can be quickly removed to facilitate mounting on a Steadicam low-mode rig. Finally, the full-size Anton Bauer battery mount has been positioned for optimal center-of-gravity distribution, greatly facilitating the needs of hand-held and Steadicam users.
Increasing reliability in harsh exterior environments, rugged Lemo connectors have been integrated into the SI-2K MINI to ensure mission critical data connectivity and enable an environmentally sealed enclosure. A complete lightweight rail mounting system with adapters for use of heavy-duty rod supports and film base plates have also been developed for the SI-2K MINI. Additional accessories include a professional Anton Bauer battery plate, shoulder-mounting kit and hand-grip with button for camera start-stop operation.
Pricing for the SI-2K MINI Digital Docking kit with PL-mount is $14,500 and with 2K-B4-mount is $15,500, with a special NAB promotional discount of $1,000. The SI-2K MINI is currently available for order with shipment in 2 weeks.
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