The GY-DV5100U is a high-performance Professional DV 3-CCD camcorder that boasts advanced features such a 12-bit ADC (used only in broadcast cameras), with a new, upgraded 24-bit DSP for superior ultra low noise and expanded image control including a 16:9 mode.

A performance step up from JVC's popular GY-DV5000U, the 5100 produces sharper images with far less noise. An additional XLR microphone connector has been added, along with a standard "Gold" Anton Bauer battery mount, and improved integration with JVC's Direct to Edit (DTE) hard disk recording module, the DR-DV5000U.

Standard DV/Mini DV mechanism

A heavy-duty double tension tape transport utilizes a reel motor in addition to a capstan motor providing more running stability and precise handling. It can accommodate both standard and mini size cassettes without an adapter. Designed to meet grueling professional standards, this mechanism also facilitates high speed operation. Cuing is also faster and more accurate. There is a built-in active/mechanical low-noise head cleaner that automatically cleans the heads each time a tape is loaded.

Up to 270 minutes (4 hrs. 36 min.) of high-quality 8-bit, 13.5 MHz 4:1:1(NTSC) DV component digital images can be recorded on a standard DV tape, while up to 60 minutes of recording is possible on MiniDV tapes.

DV input/output connector

This allows bi-directional transfer of a high-quality compressed digital motion-picture signal to a computer, a deck, a non-linear editing system or to another DV camcorder or VTR.

High-quality PCM locked audio

To complement the superior pictures, the GY-DV5100 offers outstanding digital PCM audio. 16-bit, 48-kHz audio signals are locked with video signals for smooth editing. You can choose from two 16-bit 48-kHz channels or four 12-bit, 32-kHz channels with a dynamic range of more than 75 dB. Three XLR mic input connectors are provided–two on the rear, and one on the front.

Three 1/2-inch CCDs for high resolution

To ensure the best possible image quality, the GY-DV5100U incorporates three 1/2" 410,000 (380,000 effective) pixel CCDs. Each CCD is equipped with highly advanced circuitry that virtually eliminates vertical smear when shooting bright lights against a dark background. Lag and image burn are also reduced to indiscernible levels. Camera resolution is an impressive 800 TV lines.

F13 at 2000 lux

JVC's most sensitive camera ever! (F13 at 2000 lux) assures effortless shooting in extreme low light situations. This powerful feature increases creative flexibility and simplifies lighting requirements. The GY-DV5100U's new digital signal processor ensures quiet, noise-free images even in extreme low light conditions.

Upgrated 12-bit ADC and 24-bit DSP

JVC's next-generation digital signal processor (DSP) brings more highly refined performance than similar processors. The 12-bit ADC (analog to digital converter) directly inputs data to the DSP (digital signal processor,) thus eliminating any signal degradation that might otherwise arise from analog circuits. Unlike cameras that use only 10 bit, or even 8 bit sampling, JVC's 12 bit A/D provides the headroom necessary to process signals with a wide dynamic range. In addition, the advanced video processing brings out natural details--even in extremely bright scenes, greatly reduces noise, and provides color accuracy found only in the most expensive field production cameras.

400% wide dynamic range

The DV5100's super fast multi-stream parallel processing DSP creates an ultra-smooth gamma curve calculated using a true log scale algorithm. The result is a dynamic range of over 400% that accurately reproduces fine details and colors in both shadowed and highlighted areas.

1/2-inch industry standard bayonet lens mount

The GY-DV5100 uses a standard professional 1/2-inch bayonet lens mount, making it compatible with the widest selection of broadcast and professional lenses. No adapters, no hidden costs. Just a smart way to tap the rich infrastructure of interchangeable professional lenses.

Color matrix

A sophisticated six-axis color matrix circuit effectively compensates optics-related color reproduction to ensure more natural, true-to-life tones. Color matching adjustment with other manufacturers' products is also possible with 5 user selectable choices including a "Sony look."

Black stretch/black compress

You can use this function to enhance or compress reproduction of black areas on the screen. When stretched, the contrast of high-contrast images is reduced so that you can capture both highlights and shadows. With 0.45 gamma, you can shoot with ambient lighting only (no fill light required), allowing you to obtain better detail reproduction in bright or shadowed areas. When compressed, the contrast is increased, making colors richer.

Video Scan Mode

It is possible to select between video or "Hi Res Frame Mode" for a more cinematographc effect.

Full Auto Shooting

In an emergency, or when it's not possible to pause to adjust white balance or change the gain, the Full Auto Shooting mode provides point-and-shoot ease of operation, leaving you simply to zoom, focus, and press the record button. Activating Full Auto Shooting puts the camera in the Auto Iris mode, even if the lens is set to manual. Automatic Video Level Control (ALC) is also activated, along with Extended Electronic Iris (EEI) which provide both variable gain and variable shutter and Full Auto White to follow color temperature. This means you can shoot continuously from a dark to a bright and indoor to outdoor without changing gain, iris, white balance or ND filter.

Functions and switch layout for professionals

In addition to the Full Auto Shooting to handle difficult or variable lighting enviroments, the GY-DV5100 is equipped with an array of pro-level functions that provide professionals with the creative flexibility they need. These include soft detail correction, Skin Tone Detection, fully adjustble gamma, Iris over/ under Black Stretch/Compress, Frame Mode etc. The GY-DV5100's switches have also been arranged in the way that most professionals are accustomed to, making operation more intuitive, precise, easy, and error-free. Since you won't have to "re-learn" how to use this camcorder all over again, the GY-DV5100 is the ideal camera for any assignment.

LOLUX 0.4 lux (F1.4)

When activated, the LOLUX mode increases sensitivity with almost no increase in noise. LOLUX increases the gain by +36 dB so you can capture high-quality video footage with excellent color balance, enhanced gradations, and minimal color smear in low-light conditions.

New audio-related functions

When color bars are output, audio reference signals (test tone) are also output. The audio reference signal can be set to -12 dB or -20 dB as required. In addition, a "wind out" function is provided to minimize extraneous noise picked up by the microphone.

2.5-inch tri-mode LCD display

The 200,000-pixel 2.5" color TFT LCD monitor provides a high-resolution 440 TVL video image during shooting or instant replay. Like the viewfinder, it has an adjustable peaking and zebras that simplify focus and iris setting. A push button slects three display modes:

1. Video only
2. Video images with text information overlay including time, status, mode, and other data are shown on the screen.
3. Data information only including time, status, mode, and other data are shown on the screen

The monitor tilts up 180 degrees for high-angled overhead shooting and tilts down 90 degrees for low-angle shots. Video-only can be displayed or with data overlayed--or data alone can be displayed.

Optional 1.5" CRT black & white viewfinder

The high-resolution viewfinder shows your subject in black and white, making it easy to locate and frame your subject with the monitor closed. The viewfinder can be moved forward or backward and the view angle can be adjusted so you can easily keep your subject in frame. The viewfinder can be raised about 90 degrees for high-angle shooting. Larger studio viewfinders are also optionally available.

On-shoulder type with soft shoulder pad

For smooth, stable shooting, the GY-DV5100 has been designed for on-shoulder shooting and comes with a soft shoulder pad attached.

Gold Anton Bauer Battery Mount with Light link function

Anton Bauer Battery systems are the choice of broadcasters around the world. The GY-DV5100U is equipped with a "gold" mount that provides intelligent communication between the camera and the CPU inside the battery. When you use an Anton Bauer battery, you can also link light (option) ON/OFF switching to the recording trigger.

Time/date recording

Time and date with seconds resolution can be recorded on the tape over color bars or video. Time and date are also overlaid over the video output.

Other Features:

• Full Auto White (FAW)
• Spot L/Back L
• Aspect ratio (4:3/letter box/16:9 squeeze)
• Detail correction
• Detail V/H balance
• Skin detail detection
• White clip select
• Knee point select
• 7.5 ire Setup adjustment [Flash tutorial]
• Lock audio (16-bit, 48Khz only)
• ACCU-FOCUS
• Automatic level control (ALC)
• System file selection
• Smooth transition mode
• Variable slow shutter
• Built-in color bar
• Gamma control
• Auto black level
• Zebra pattern (4-step)
• Auto knee
• Highlight chroma processing
• SMPTE/EBU time code generator
• Blank search
• Edit search
• Adaptable to Sony-style tripod base

DR-DV5000 Removable Hard Disk Drive (option)

Connects directly to full-size Professional DV camcorder

DR-DV5000 has been designed specifically to dock with your GY-DV5100 series camcorder. The DR-DV5000 module sits between the rear of the camcorder and the battery. One battery is capable of powering the camcorder, the DR-DV5000 module and FireWire disk drive. Interfacing the GY-DV5100 with the DR-DV5000 is done with the DV select switch, allowing to transfer video, audio, timecode control information.

Flexible disk drive options

DR-DV5000 uses removable drives making it possible to simply swap out drives so the editor can get to work sooner while the camera operator continues to shoot. In addition, users can mount their own IDE hard disk drives (from an approved list) into an empty FireWire enclosure. This solution gives you enormous disk space limited only by future hard disk technology in an enclosure only .47' or 12mm thick. Internal buffer memory and shock proofing ensures worry-free operation. Additionally virtually any external FireWire disk drive can be connected to DR-DV5000 via its standard 6-pin FireWire port.

Compatible with popular DV NLE applications

DTE technology means DR-DV5000 files are recorded in your DV NLE's native file format.This means no file transfer, no capturing, no rendering. Use DR-DV5000 recorded files instantly with the most popular applications from Adobe, Apple, Avid, Canopus, Matrox, Pinnacle, Sonic Foundry and many more! As new application support is released, you can simply update your DR-DV5000 in the field with new system software, by an automatic process using the disk drive itself.

Integrated with camcorder and disk drive operation

When used with the GY-DV5100, it is possible to control record and record pause of DR-DV5000 from the camcorder.Timecode generated by the camcorder can be recorded to file on the disk using DR-DV5000. DR-DV5000 status and other information appears in the viewfinder.

Long record times

Extend your GY-DV5100 uninterrupted record time by hours. For example, an 80GB FireWire drive internally provides over 6 hours of DV video! It is also possible to daisy chain up to four external FireWire drives of varying sizes to DR-DV5000 enabling incredibly long durations of uninterrupted recording.

LCD display and playback modes

DR-DV5000 features a detailed LCD which displays system mode, timecode, and disk space remaining. When using a GY-DV5100, it is possible to preview clips in the GY-DV5100's viewfinder or LCD panel or on an external monitor by using DR-DV5000's playback mode. Functions include record, play, pause, stop, forward index, back index and multi speed fast forward and rewind.

Retro disk/cache record and timelapse recording

DR-DV5000 features a retro disk/cache feature where a recording can begin up to ten seconds before the record trigger button is pushed ensuring no action is missed! It is also possible to do user definable timelapse recording for any user specified time.