Panasonic WV-CP484 Camera

[Darren]

We recently acquired a Panasonic WV-CP484 Security Camera for use with our DVR System and thus had the opportunity to do the following quick review - sample pics and comparisons will be added at some stage.

The Panasonic WV-CP484E is equipped with Auto Back Focus (ABF). When these cameras switch from color to B/W mode, the cameras automatically make micron-order adjustments in CCD position to achieve precise back focus. The new Auto Back Focus (ABF) technology ensures delivery of clear, sharp, perfectly focused image 24-hours a day, automatically. Panasonic’s exclusive Super Dynamic III (SDIII) Technology enables surveillance cameras to think and act on their own. SDIII Cameras bring amazing reality to 24 hour surveillance, true picture for rock solid identification, superb image quality, and unprecedented image-processing performance.

Features:

• Pixel Based 128X (NTSC) / 160x (PAL) Dynamic Range
  Super Dynamic III uses Area Free (Pixel Based) Natural Contrast Image Correction to optimize contrast and faithfully reproduce objects in every area and position. The new Pixel Based 128x Dynamic Range with area free natural contrast image correction adjusts moment-to-moment changes in contrast to view subjects accurately in all areas and positions. Combining 1/8,000 sec. and 1/60 (NTSC) / 1/50 (PAL) sec. shutter speed signals gives this amazing system a 128x (NTSC) / 160x (PAL) Dynamic Range that makes it the perfect surveillance solution for ATMs, building entrances, and other locations where contrast changes depending on time, weather and season.
  
  
• Auto Back Focus (ABF)
  The ABF feature automatically adjusts the CCD position when changing from color to B/W mode, optimizing the back focus required for clear, sharp images. In addition, the one-push Auto Back Focus feature sharply reduces the time required to focus cameras during installation, allowing focus to be set using the optional system controller.
  
  
  
  
• The Auto Image Stabilizer
  Cameras attached to poles may be affected by high winds. Cameras may also be affected by vibration from aircraft, trains or large trucks. Automatic image stabilization prevents blurring under these conditions.
  
  
  
  
• Digital Motion Detector with alarm out for an external device such as a buzzer, recorder, etc.
  
• Scene change detection alarms when lens is covered, spray painted, removed, defocused or camera angle is changed.
  
• Gen-lock Capability for Large System Applications
  
• 16-Alphanumberic Character Display
  
• Menu setup can be displayed in 8 (eight) languages: English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese and Japanese.
  

Specifications:

• Image Sensor: 1/3" Double Speed CCD Color Image Sensor Color/Black and White
  
• Horizontal Resolution: 540 lines (color mode) / 570 lines (B/W mode). Switches from selected color mode to B/W mode, automatically or manually.
  
• Minimum Illumination:
  - 0.5 lux (0.05 fc) at color mode
  - 0.06 lux (0.006 fc) at B/W mode, at F1.2 optional lens
  - 0.6 lux (0.06 fc) at color mode
  - 0.08 lux (0.008 fc) at B/W mode, at F1.4 optional lens
  The camera is also sensitive to infrared and ultraviolet light and such additional illuminators can further enhance the picture beyond the already impressive low light capability of the camera.
  
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 50dB
  
• Electronic shutter from 1/60 to 1/10,000 sec.
  
• Electronic sensitivity enhancement (auto/manual/on).
  
• Digital signal processing LSI's for high quality picture: 2H vertical enhancement, chroma averaging circuit, minimum of aliasing, knee circuit, and highlight aperture correction.
  
• VD2 sync capability with Panasonic system products.
  
• Power: 24VAC, 60Hz / 12V DC, 410mA
  
• Dimensions (without lens) (W x H x D) 67 x 65 x 100 mm (2-5/8" x 2-9/16" x 3-15/16")
  
• Weight (without lens) 400 g (0.9 lbs.)
  

The quality of the camera greatly assists the results from third party security image processing such as the Valencia Facial Detection Software (www.argus-solutions.com/face_recognition.htm).

The Panasonic WV-CP484 camera is supplied standard without a lens and retails for around US$380-$480. The camera is aimed at the professional high level security market and as such the price reflects the quality of the device.

The main benefits for paranormal investigations would be the cameras resolution and performance in low light conditions. Its inbuilt alarm output for motion detection may also prove useful.

As the camera has no lighting incorporated (nor does it need to except in very low light) it can provide a true representation of the surroundings without any influence from added illumination. However, the image quality and low light capability is boosted with additional IR lighting. External lighting may also be added to test reported activity in various lighting conditions such as infrared, red or ultraviolet.

The downside in comparison to other cameras available would be the price tag, but if it's quality you're after, this camera certainly shows it's advantage.


The lens
We utilise a Bosch LTC3374/20 1/3" CS-Mount 5-50mm Vari-Focal Lens with Auto Iris DC (Retail: US$140-$160).

This allows the use of a single lens for wide or tele viewing applications in various lighting conditions. A compact and rugged design along with high quality optics ensures long term, dependable operation in a variety of security environments. This lens offers convenient manual focus and zoom operation with a screw-type lock securing the rings in place once the lens is installed.
Image Format: 1/3"
Focal Length: 5-50mm
Iris Range: F1.4-185
Focus Range: 1m (3.3ft)
Back Focus: 10.05mm (0.4")
Weight 3.4 oz (97 g)
Mount: CS
Angle of View Wide: 53.4 x 40.1
Angle of View Tele: 5.3 x 4.1
Iris control: 4pin DC
Focus control: Manual
Zoom control: Manual
Dimensions (WxHxD) 1 x 1.3 x 2.3" (25 x 33.2 x 59.2mm)


* Prices mentioned are retail - second hand products may be considerably cheaper if searching on services such as ebay.