Sony PXW-Z280

World's first 4K Handheld Camcorder with 1/2-type 3CMOS with 4K 50p/60p recording capability, 12G-SDI, Dual Link Cellular capability, 17x zoom lens, advanced Face Detection AF

Setting the standard for handheld image quality and direct to air broadcasting in the IoT era.

World-leading handheld 4K HDR performance

An all-new 4K 3CMOS 1/2-type sensor with a deep depth of field and class-leading performance provides the pinnacle of 4K HDR performance in your hand. Face Detection AF keeps your subject in focus, while HLG and S-Log3 provide stunning HDR to suit any workflow.

Revolutionary networking capabilities

Deliver your content faster wherever you are. PXW-Z280 is the world’s first camcorder with Dual Link Cellular capability for double the uplink performance and reliability.

*Requires XDCAM air subscription or PWS-110RX1A/110RX1.

The complete package for professionals

Unpack and shoot from day one. Advanced XAVC-Intra and XAVC-Long for 4K QFHD and HD, plus MPEG HD422, MPEG HD and DVCAM to support any workflow. Familiar Sony control layout and operation minimise training requirements.

World's first 1/2-type 3CMOS Sensor for broadcast 4K

The Z280’s all-new Exmor R™ imager is custom-designed for broadcast 4K acquisition. Its three 1/2-type Exmor R™ CMOS deliver a deep depth of field with superb image quality. Red, blue, and green light are independently captured by separate image sensors, contributing to high resolution, high sensitivity of F12 (59.94p) and wide dynamic range. An advanced LSI (featuring intelligent noise reduction, enhanced detail reproduction and distortion correction technologies) delivers remarkably lifelike 4K 4:2:2 10-bit images. Even if you’re delivering in HD, your recordings will capture detail and image texture that HD sensors simply cannot see.

17x professional HD zoom lens with three independent rings with end-stop and large focal length

The PXW-Z280 is equipped with a 17x professional zoom lens able to zoom from 30.3mm to 515mm (35mm equivalent). The 1/2-inch type lens has three independent control rings with end-stop, which allows manual control of focus, zoom and iris, making for better and faster adjustment.

The image can be enlarged in HD mode up to 34x zoom equivalent while maintaining Full HD resolution thanks to digital extender.

Spectacular HDR performance

Demand for HDR content is increasing and Z280 offers you a choice of two powerful workflows.

• S-Log3 is the proven choice for premium applications where you wish to capture as much data as possible for the ultimate flexibility in grading
• Instant HDR Workflow is all about speed. Shoot, edit and view content in Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) to deliver content quickly without compromising on imaging expression and quality of content

Amazingly fast precision auto focus

The PXW-Z280 features newly developed Face detection AF. You can choose between Face Priority AF and Face Only AF. Simply keep the person in frame and and however you move to obtain a better angle, you can be confident the PXW-Z280 will keep your subject in pin-sharp focus.

Built-in electronic Variable ND Filters

Sony’s ground-breaking integration of electronic variable ND Filters into the body of a camcorder enables fast, agile shooting. Moving from shadowy interiors to bright sun-lit exteriors is no problem with PXW-Z280. Unlike conventional optical ND filters, the electronic ND filter on the PXW-Z280 can be controlled from 1/4ND to 1/128ND linearly while ND Filters can be set to fully auto. You can even manually adjust Depth of Field using the iris lens ring, while relying on the PXW-Z280 to maintain constant exposure without changing gain nor shutter speed.

12G-SDI accelerated workflow

Revolutionise your workflow with 12Gbps content transfer – four times the bandwidth of 3G-SDI over a single cable and ideal for working with highest quality 4K content or speeding through HD content. Sony is the first broadcast manufacturer to build 12G-SDI into a compact handheld camcorder. Once you’ve tried it, you won’t want to use anything else.

Accurate OLED viewfinder

An expansive 0.5-inch high quality OLED viewfinder is perfectly offset for right-eye or left-eye viewing. OLED’s superb accuracy, high contrast and high resolution (2.36M dot) enables precise manual focus and eliminates any colour-breaking phenomenon.

Dual Multi-Interface (MI) Shoe

MI Shoe provides power, signal connections and coordinated on/off switching to compatible Sony accessories. For example, you can connect and control Sony wireless microphone systems such as the UWP-D11 or UWP-D12 or attach the HVL-LBPC light *Connectors at front and back of camcorder maximise operational flexibility.

*Accessories sold separately. HVL-LBPC light does not draw power from PXW-Z280.

Dual XLR and 4 Channel Audio

The PXW-Z280 offers superior professional audio capabilities with independent volume dials enabling precision control of external audio inputs, including an MI-shoe attached microphone.

Dual SxS media slots

The camcorder is equipped with two SxS memory card slots, which can record in Simul, Relay or Back up mode. Simul mode permits simultaneous recording to two memory cards, including simultaneous recordings of MPEG HD exFAT and UDF recordings, ideal for archival purposes. Relay mode automatically switches recording from the first to the second memory card when the first is full to extend recording times. In Back up mode, users can set up the two Start/Stop buttons on the PXW-Z280, one on the grip and one on the camcorder body, to independently start and stop recording on different memory cards while recording in Simul mode.*

*Simul and back-up recording are limited to HD operation

Networked for high mobility

The PXW-Z280 comes with 5GHz* and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi as standard – simply turn on and log onto your preferred network to enable a host of advanced wireless production features:

• Dual Link Cellular – use two cellular networks in combination to provide an even more reliable network connection. The PXW-Z280 is compatible with standard USB cellular dongles from most networks. (Please check for most appropriate service provider for your region. Standard network fees will apply.)
• High quality Sony QoS Streaming to Network RX station (Sold separately) and XDCAM air allows images to be streamed live from the camcorder for viewing at a remote location
• FTP Transfer allows content files recorded with MPEG HD 422/420 proxy feature and other content files shot in XAVC (QFHD/FHD) to be sent over the internet for remote storage on an FTP server even while shooting. In case of signal interruption, the system will automatically resume as soon as connection restored

• Trimming function is available for both proxy and PGM without need for a PC. Any clip can have its start and endpoints selected to eliminate time wasted transferring unnecessary content
• XDCAM air can upload proxy footage to the cloud from multiple camera operators in the field, so editing can start immediately. Uploaded content can be accessed securely from any location. News teams can even start logging clips while shooting’s still going on, saving even more valuable time when a story’s breaking
• Wi-Fi/NFC (Near Field Communication) with Content Browser Mobile™** allows the PXW-Z280 to be remotely controlled from a smartphone or tablet computer (iOS 9.0 – 10.3 or Android 4.4 through 7.1) via a Wi-Fi connection. One-touch authentication is also possible with smartphones that offer NFC connectivity
• Wired LAN port allows you to connect the PXW-Z280 to the Internet with a standard Ethernet cable, allowing files to be streamed or transferred by FTP

*5GHz support dependent on country/regional regulation. **The Content Browser Mobile™ application can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or App Store. Wi-Fi operation cannot be guaranteed with all smartphones and tablet computers.

High performance, proven recording formats

PXW-Z280 offers complete production flexibility with built-in support for a wide variety of production formats.

High quality XAVC Intra and XAVC Long GOP recordings

XAVC technology is based on the H.264 standard, which provides an exceptionally robust and efficient compression technology. XAVC Intra (frame) compression means that every frame is encoded independent of the other frames – providing a better quality picture, without compromises. XAVC Long GOP applies compression across multiple frames – reducing file sizes, which can make for fast ingest and editing as well as providing budget savings on recording media. The XAVC codec adopts 10-bit sampling for high definition recording with rich tonal expression.

Broadcast-standard MPEG HD422 and MPEG HD

High-quality MPEG HD422 50 Mbps is fully compliant with the latest EBU recommendations for long-form broadcast production and is widely accepted in broadcasting stations and production houses. This recording capability makes PXW-Z280 ideal for a wide range of different applications, including newsgathering and documentary production.

DVCAM at 25 Mbps in MXF file format

Many broadcasters and production houses still utilise the proven DVCAM format and PXW-Z280 provides support at the flick of a switch.

Specifications

GENERAL

Mass

• Approx. 2.6 kg (body)
• Approx. 5 lb 11.7 oz (body)
• Approx. 3.0 kg (with lens hood, eyecup, BP-U30 battery, a SxS memory card)
• Approx. 6 lb 9.8 oz (with lens hood, eyecup, BP-U30 battery, a SxS memory card)

Dimensions (W x H x D)

• 178.4 × 202.0 × 426.3 mm (With the accessories (lens hood, eyecup), excluding the grip belt and including the projecting parts)
• 7 1/8 x 8 x 16 7/8 inches (With the accessories (lens hood, eyecup), excluding the grip belt and including the projecting parts)

Power Requirements

• DC In: 12 V
• Battery: 14.4 V
• Please use genuine Sony batteries to ensure correct and safe operation **

Power Consumption

• Approx. 24 W
• (while recording with LCD Off, EVF On when the external device connector is not used.)
• Approx. 36 W
• (while recording with LCD On, EVF On when the external device connector is used.)

Operating Temperature

• 0°C to 40°C
• 32°F to 104°F

Storage Temperature

• -20°C to +60°C
• -4°F to +140°F

Battery Operating Time

• Approx. 1 hours, 5 minutes with BP-U30 battery
• (while recording with LCD Off, EVF On when the external device connector is not used.)
• Approx. 2 hours, 10 minutes with BP-U60 battery
• (while recording with LCD Off, EVF On when the external device connector is not used.)
• Approx. 3 hours, 15 minutes with BP-U90 battery
• (while recording with LCD Off, EVF On when the external device connector is not used.)

Recording Format (Video)

• <XAVC Intra>
• XAVC-I QFHD mode:
• MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, CBG, Max.600 Mbps
• XAVC-I HD mode:
• MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, CBG, Max.222 Mbps
• <XAVC Long> 
• XAVC-L QFHD mode:
• VBR, maximum bit rate 150Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC
• XAVC-L HD 50 mode:
• VBR, maximum bit rate 50Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC
• AVC-L HD 35 mode:
• VBR, maximum bit rate 35Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC
• XAVC-L HD 25 mode:
• VBR, maximum bit rate 25Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC
• <MPEG-2 Long GOP> 
• MPEG HD422 mode:
• CBR, maximum bit rate 50Mbps, MPEG-2 422P@HL
• MPEG HD420 HQ mode:
• VBR, maximum bit rate 35Mbps, MPEG-2 MP@HL
• <DVCAM> 
• DVCAM mode:
• CBR, 25Mbps, DVCAM

Recording Format (Audio)

• <XAVC Intra>
• XAVC-I mode:
• LPCM 24-bit, 48 kHz, 4 channels:
• <XAVC Long>
• XAVC-L mode:
• LPCM 24-bit, 48 kHz, 4 channels:
• <MPEG-2 Long GOP>
• MPEG HD422 mode:
• LPCM 24-bit, 48 kHz, 4 channels:
• MPEG HD420 HQ mode:
• LPCM 16-bit, 48 kHz, 4 channels:
• <DVCAM>
• DVCAM mode:
• LPCM 16-bit, 48 kHz, 4 channels

Recording Frame Rate

• <XAVC Intra>
• XAVC-I QFHD mode:
• 3840 x 2160/59, 94p, 50p, 29.97p, 23.98p, 25p
• XAVC-I HD mode:
• 1920 x 1080/59, 94p, 59.94i, 50p, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P 1280x720/59.94P, 50P
• <XAVC Long>
• XAVC-L QFHD 150 mode:
• 3840 x 2160/59.94P, 50P, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P
• XAVC-L HD 50 mode:
• 1920 x 1080/59.94P, 50P, 59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P 1280 x 720/59.94P, 50P
• XAVC-L HD 35 mode:
• 1920 x 1080/59.94P, 50P, 59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P

Recording Frame Rate - Continued

• XAVC-L HD 25 mode:
• 1920 x 1080/59.94i, 50i
• <MPEG-2 Long GOP> 
• MPEG HD422 mode:
• 1920 x 1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P
• 1280 x 720/59.94P, 50P, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P
• MPEG HD420 HQ mode:
• 1920 x 1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P
• 1440 x 1080/59.94i, 50i
• 1280 x 720/59.94P,50P
• <DVCAM> 
• DVCAM mode:
• 720 x 480/59.94i, 29.97PsF
• 720 x 576/50i, 25PsF

Recording/Playback Time

• <XAVC Intra>
• XAVC-I QFHD mode
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 22 minutes
• XAVC-I HD mode
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 57 minutes
• <XAVC Long>
• XAVC-L QFHD 150 mode
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 86 minutes
• XAVC-L HD 50 mode
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 230 minutes
• XAVC-L HD 35 mode
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 310 minutes

Recording/Playback Time — Continued

• XAVC-L 25 mode
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 420 minutes
• <MPEG-2 Long GOP>
• MPEG HD422 mode
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 215 minutes
• MPEG HD420 HQ mode
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 330 minutes
• <DVCAM> 
• When using SBP-128B (128 GB):
• Approx. 405 minutes

Recording Format (Proxy Audio)

• XAVC Proxy: AAC-LC, 128 kbps, 2 channels

Recording Format (Proxy Video)

• XAVC Proxy: AVC/H.264 Main Profile 4:2:0 Long GOP, VBR
• 1920 x 1080, 9Mbps
• 1280 x 720, 9Mbps
• 1280 x 720, 6Mbps
• 640 x 360, 3Mbps
• 480 x 270, 1Mbps
• 480 x 270, 0.5Mbps

LENS

Lens Mount

• Fixed

Zoom Ratio

• 17x (optical), servo/manual

Focal Length

• f = 5.6 - 95.2 mm
• (35mm equivalent: 30.3 - 515 mm)

Iris

• F1.9 - F16 and close
• auto/manual selectable

Focus

• 800 mm to ∞ (Macro Off), 
• 50 mm to ∞ (Macro On, Wide), 
• 800 mm to ∞ (Macro On, Tele)
• AF/MF/Full MF selectable

Image Stabilizer

• On/Off selectable, shift lens

Filter Diameter

• M77 mm, pitch 0.75mm

CAMERA SECTION

Imaging Device (Type)

• 1/2 type back-illuminated Exmor R 3CMOS sensor

Effective Picture Elements

• 3840 (H) x 2160 (V)

Optical System

• F1.6 prism system

Built-in Optical Filters

• ND filters
• OFF: CLEAR
• 1: 1/4ND
• 2: 1/16ND
• 3: 1/64ND
• Linear variable ND (Approx. 1/4ND to 1/128ND)

Sensitivity (2000 lx, 89.9% reflectance)

• F12 (typical, 1920 x 1080/59.94p mode)
• F13 (typical, 1920 x 1080/50p mode)
• F12 (typical, 3840 x 2160/59.94p, High Sensitivity Mode)
• F13 (typical, 3840 x 2160/50p, High Sensitivity Mode)

Minimum Illumination

• 0.0013lx (typical)
• (1920 x 1080/59.94i mode, F1.9, +42 dB gain, High Sensitivity Mode, with 64 frame accumulation)

S/N Ratio

• 63 dB (Y) (typical)

Horizontal Resolution

• 2,000 TV lines or more (3840 x 2160p mode)
• 1,000 TV lines or more (1920 x 1080p mode)

Shutter Speed

• 1/24 sec to 1/8,000 sec

Slow Shutter (SLS)

• 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 16, 32, and 64-frame accumulation

Slow and Quick Motion Function

• <XAVC Intra>
• <XAVC Long> 
• 2160P: 1-60 fps
• 1080P: 1-60 fps
• 720P: 1-60 fps
• <MPEG HD422> 
• 1080P: 1-30 fps
• 720P: 1-60 fps
• <MPEG HD420 HQ> 
• 1080P: 1-30 fps
• 720P: 1-60 fps

White Balance

• Preset (3200K), Memory A, 
• Memory B/ATW

Gain

• -3, 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 dB, 42 dB(Turbo Gain ON), AGC

Gamma Curve

• Selectable

INPUT/OUTPUT

Audio Input

• XLR-type 3-pin (female) (x2), line/mic/mic +48 V selectable
• LINE：+4, 0, -3dBu/10kΩ
• MIC：-80dBu to -30dBu /3kΩ
• (0 dBu=0.775 Vrms)

Video Output

• BNC (x1), HD-Y/ HD-SYNC/Composite
• 1.0 V p-p, 75 Ω
• (switchable to Genlock in)

Audio Output

• Integrated into Multi/Micro USB jack(x1)

SDI Output

• BNC (x1), 12G/3G/HD/SD selectable

Timecode Input

• BNC (x1) (switchable to TC out)
• 0.5V-1.8Vp-p, 3.3kΩ

Timecode Output

• BNC (x1) (switchable to TC in)
• 1.0 V p-p, 75 Ω

Genlock Input

• BNC (x1) (switchable to Video out) 1.0 Vp-p, 75Ω

USB

• USB device, Multi/Micro USB jack (x1)
• Host: USB 3.0/2.0 type A(x1)
• USB 2.0 type A(x1)

Headphone Output

• Stereo mini jack (x1)
• -16dBu 16Ω

Speaker Output

• Monaural
• Output: 500 mW

DC Input

• DC jack (x1)

Remote

• Stereo mini-minijack (Φ2.5 mm)

HDMI Output

• Type A (x1)

Wired LAN

• RJ-45 (x1), 1000BASE-T, 100BASE-T, 10BASE-T

MONITORING

Viewfinder

• 0.5 type (1.3 cm)
• Approx 2.36 M dots

LCD

• 3.5 type (8.8cm)
• Approx. 1.56M dots

BUILT-IN MICROPHONE

Built-in Microphone

• Omni-directional stereo electret condenser microphone

MEDIA

Type

• ExpressCard/34 slot (x2)

WI-FI/NFC

Supported Format

• IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac

Frequency Band

• 2.4 GHz bandwidth
• 5.2/5.3/5.6 GHz bandwidth*

Security

• WEP/WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK

NFC

• NFC Forum Type 3 Tag compliant

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES

Supplied Accessories

• Lens hood (1), Pre-installed to the Camcorder
• EVF eyecup (1)
• Battery pack BP-U30 (1)
• AC Adapter/charger BC-U1A (1)
• Power code (1)
• USB cable (1)
• Shoulder strap (1)
• Warranty booklet (1)
• "Before Using this Unit" (1)
• CDROM "Operating instructions" (1)

NOTES

* Depending on country/regional regulation

** Sony does not guarantee other manufacturers' batteries to operate properly as noted in operation manual.