Panasonic Talks VariCam LT Firmware Updates: NAB 2017 Video

At NAB 2017, Panasonic continued to update and add features to the VariCam LT. This is such a great camera to use and I am interested to see what else the add to the software in the years to come.

VariCam LT 240fps Windowed 2K RAW

Panasonic announced its plans to add 2K RAW output up to 240fps in a free firmware update to the VariCam LT 4K cinema camcorder. The 2K raw signal will be supported by Convergent Design. Convergent Design plans to release their firmware updates in June 2017.

The 2K RAW frame is windowed from the center of the camera’s 4K sensor, so no artifacts are introduced into the image. In 2K RAW the VariCam LT will continue to provide its 14+ stop, dual 800/5000 ISO functionality with accurate colors and skin tones. 2K RAW output is available while recording internally in 2K or HD. Last Fall, the VariCam LT added 4K RAW output up to 60fps in a free firmware update.

(*) In an earlier version of this quickly written NAB 2017 news post I wrongly stated Atomos was going to be able to record 2K raw at 240fsp from the VariCam LT. I was wrong. So far, only Convergent Design will be able to record 2K raw at 240fps from the VariCam LT.