Sony PMW EX3 XDCam Camera

I do not know if the batteries are still good. The camera has not been used in a long time. Very nice case included.

Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX: An In-Depth Overview

1. Design and Form Factor

• The Sony PMW-EX3 is part of the XDCAM EX family, designed for professional content creators.
• It features a semi-shoulder design, striking a balance between mobility and stability during shooting.
• The compact body houses powerful components, making it suitable for various production scenarios.

2. Image Sensor and Resolution

• The PMW-EX3 boasts three 1/2-inch type "ExmorTM" full-HD CMOS sensors.
• These sensors capture stunning full-HD (1920 x 1080) images with exceptional clarity and color fidelity.
• Additionally, the camera supports 1280 x 720 HD recording modes.

3. Recording Format and Codec

• The XDCAM EX series uses the SxS PRO memory card as its recording media.
• The SxS PRO card is ultra-compact and based on the ExpressCard/34 standard.
• It achieves an impressive data transfer speed of 800 Mb/s, ensuring efficient file-based operation.
• The PMW-EX3 employs the XDCAM-EX intraframe codec, which balances high image quality with manageable file sizes.

4. Lens System

• One of the standout features of the PMW-EX3 is its interchangeable lens system.
• The camera accepts 1/2-inch type lenses, providing enhanced creativity and flexibility.
• Filmmakers can choose from a wide range of compatible lenses to achieve their desired look.

5. Recording Modes and Frame Rates

• The PMW-EX3 supports various recording modes, including:
  • Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 24p, 30p, and 60i
  • HD (1280 x 720) at 24p, 30p, and 60p
• Filmmakers can select the mode that best suits their project requirements.

6. Audio Capabilities

• The camera features professional audio inputs, including XLR connectors.
• It supports two-channel audio recording with adjustable levels.
• Filmmakers can capture high-quality sound directly into their footage.

7. Viewfinder and LCD Screen

• The PMW-EX3 comes with a high-resolution color viewfinder for precise framing and focus.
• Additionally, it has a flip-out 3.5-inch LCD screen, allowing operators to monitor shots even when not using the viewfinder.

8. Connectivity and Ports

• The camera provides essential connectivity options:
  • HD-SDI output for external monitoring
  • HDMI output for connecting to displays or recorders
  • USB port for data transfer
  • Timecode input/output
  • Genlock input

9. Battery Life and Power

• The PMW-EX3 uses standard Sony BP-U series batteries.
• Depending on usage and settings, it can operate for several hours on a single battery charge.

10. Workflow and Post-Production

• The XDCAM EX workflow ensures seamless integration with non-linear editing systems.
• Filmmakers can offload footage from the SxS PRO cards directly into their editing software.

In summary, the Sony PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX is a versatile and powerful camcorder, ideal for documentary filmmaking, corporate videos, and broadcast production. Its combination of image quality, flexibility, and efficient workflow makes it a favorite among professionals.