Sony Electronics Expands Functionality of Camera Remote SDK and Increases Range of Compatible Models

SAN DIEGO, May 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics Inc. has launched an update (Version 1.04) to its Camera Remote Software Development Kit (SDK) which extends the list of supported cameras to include the Alpha 1 and RX0 II. The addition of these models opens many new opportunities for companies to utilize the industry leading technology in Sony's cameras to develop tailored camera applications to improve their own workflow.

The Alpha 1 is particularly suited to content creation and the inspection industry due to its unprecedented combination of resolution and speed with Ethernet control. RX0 II is ideal for 3D scanning and Photobooth usage, due to its ultra-compact body and high image quality made possible by its 1.0-type image sensor.

The latest update now means that up to 20 camera devices can be connected via USB, with the additional benefits of Ethernet connectivity that enable users to operate system over much greater distances.

"Since the launch of the SDK in February 2020, demand has been fantastic and we have engaged with new B2B partners across the globe to take full advantage of the advanced capabilities of cameras such as the Alpha 7S III and Alpha 7R IV," said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. "Improving the connectivity options for wired multi-camera solutions is crucial for applications in areas such as e-commerce and 3D scanning, and we will continue to evolve our offering to best support the needs of our customers."

Camera Remote SDK allows users to control Sony's cameras remotely from a computer, from changing the camera settings, to remote shutter release and live view monitoring. With this SDK, software developers can design customized applications tailored to business requirements, integrating Sony's professional equipment for size-critical drone and speed camera systems as well as other medical, education, government, and e-commerce functions.

Digital production agency Stasis Media is one such example. Stasis is one of the leading providers of real-time visualization, augmented and virtual reality solutions, photogrammetry and 3D scanning.  

"The ability to connect multiple cameras in the same session per machine, will greatly expand our photogrammetry capture rig capabilities," said Craig Mason, Director, Stasis Media. "The support for the RX0 II gives us capacity to perform full-body scans at high quality, in tandem with face capture, all as part of the same workflow. This is a great addition to the Sony toolset and will allow us to make use of Sony's high-quality imaging sensors for rapid, high quality photogrammetry scanning."

In addition to the existing support for Windows® 8.1/10, ARM Linux® and macOS®, Version 1.04 of the SDK introduces support for x86 Linux, making integration easy for industry customers traditionally using x86 computers. Full details of the Camera Remote SDK, including case studies and the full list of compatible products can be found at http://www.sony.net/CameraRemoteSDK.

Alpha 1: Unprecedented Resolution and Speed
Due to its high-speed performance, the Alpha 1 captures moments that would otherwise be lost, providing any photographer the speed they require to capture fast-moving objects. High-speed readout from the 50.1-megapixel (approximate effective) full-frame image sensor and a large buffer memory makes it possible to shoot up to 155 full-frame compressed RAW imagesⁱ or 165 full-frame JPEG imagesⁱⁱ at up to 30 frames per second with the electronic shutter while maintaining full AF and AE tracking performanceⁱⁱⁱ. These features are all possible while controlling via SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps or 1000BASE-T Ethernet.

At an astonishing calculation speed of up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second, the Alpha 1 can maintain focus with high accuracy even for fast moving subjects. It can automatically adjust exposure, even with sudden changes in brightness, with an AE response latency as low as 0.033 seconds^iv.

RX0 II: Mini Powerhouse
The RX0 II is truly a 'worry-free' camera that can be inserted into places that no other camera can go, while still delivering fantastic image quality thanks to its 1.0-type image sensor. Measuring just 59mm x 40.5mm x 35mm^v and weighing just 132g^vi, the RX0 II fits easily into small spaces for truly flexible shooting.

About Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information.

Notes:
ⁱ "Hi+" continuous shooting mode, compressed RAW, CFexpress Type A memory card. Sony tests.
ⁱⁱ "Hi+" continuous shooting mode, CFexpress Type A memory card. Sony tests.
ⁱⁱⁱ At 20 frames per second, users can shoot up to 238 full-frame compressed RAW images or 400 full-frame JPEG images.
^iv "Hi+" continuous shooting mode. In focus modes other than AF-C, effective at 1/125 sec. or higher shutter speed. In AF-C mode, effective at 1/250 sec. or higher shutter speed, and the maximum continuous frame rate will depend on the shooting mode and lens used. 20 fps max. when shooting Uncompressed or Lossless compressed RAW.
^v width x height x depth
^vi Approximate weight with battery and media included

SOURCE Sony Electronics, Inc.