Last month, Sony announced the PDT-FP1 portable data transmitter in Japan. The company has now revealed it in other regions, including North America.
“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,” explains 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.”
Not to retread too much of the same ground, but the PDT-FP1 offers some impressive benefits for photographers and videographers working out in the field. Using the device alongside a compatible Sony camera, detailed on the official product page, people can capture and transmit photos and videos from virtually anywhere to any file transfer protocol (FTP) or to Sony Cloud services, such as Ci Media Cloud and C3 Portal’s cloud gateway.
The device includes 5G connectivity and features a pair of USB-C ports and a full-size HDMI port. When using these HDMI or USB ports, Sony camera operators can livestream wirelessly. When used alongside Sony’s new CBK-RPU7 remote production unit, it’s possible to achieve high-quality, low-latency 4K/60p HEVC video transmission, making it an ideal option for broadcasting sports, events, and news. It also includes a LAN port, by the way.
High-speed, stable data transmission is thermally demanding, so Sony has carefully designed and built the PDT-FP1. It features a newly developed cooling fan, promising optimal performance in ambient air temperatures up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The duct-based structure promises to dissipate heat efficiently, and the fan has auto, cooling, and silent priority modes for users to choose from.
The PDT-FP1 runs on a version of AndroidOS and includes 256GB of internal storage, which can be expanded by up to an additional terabyte using a microSD card. This ensures that users can store significant data on the device for transmission.
Sony promises an effortless, straightforward workflow using the PDT-FP1. Once the connection has been established, it is designed to be easy to reconnect. The transmitter has a large 6.1-inch display to monitor connection status, transmission speeds, and view options and settings. It has a screw hole to secure to the camera or tripod, and also has a strap eyelet.
The Sony PDT-FP1 looks to be a very compelling solution for professional photographers and videographers. Complete specifications are available on Sony’s website. The PDT-FP1 is expected to arrive in the United States in early Summer and will cost $1,100.
Image credits: Sony