Sony is announcing a key upgrade to its camera SDK. It’s particularly relevant to drones, e-commerce companies, mapping firms, traffic / security firms
-Alpha 1 and RX0 II added to list of compatible Sony’s cameras
-Latest version of SDK extends USB and Wired Ethernet connectivity options, increasing the number of cameras that can be connected and remotely controlled
-x86 Linux compatibility
Sony 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 utilise the industry-leading technology in Sony’s cameras to develop bespoke camera applications to improve their own workflow.
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 which enables users to operate system over much greater distances.
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 bespoke 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.
“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 develop some incredibly interesting applications that take full advantage of the advanced capabilities of cameras such as the Alpha 7S III and Alpha 7R IV”, said Yasuo Baba, Director Digital Imaging, Sony Europe B.V. “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.”
“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 www.sony.eu/businesssolutions.
Alpha 1: Unprecedented Resolution and Speed
The Alpha 1 captures moments that would otherwise be lost thanks to its high-speed performance, 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 images(i) or 165 full-frame JPEG images(ii) at up to 30 frames per second with the electronic shutter while maintaining full AF and AE tracking performance (iii). These features are all possible whilst 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, whilst 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 Group Corporation
Sony Group Corporation is a creative entertainment company with a solid foundation of technology. From Game & Network Services to Music, Pictures, Electronics Products & Solutions, Imaging & Sensing Solutions and Financial Services – Sony’s purpose is to fill the world with emotion through the power of creativity and technology. For more information, visit: www.sony.co.uk
About Sony Corporation
Sony Corporation is responsible for the Electronics Products & Solutions (EP&S) business in the Sony Group. With the vision of “continuing to deliver Kando and Anshin to people and society across the world through the pursuit of technology and new challenges,” Sony will create products and services in areas such as home entertainment & sound, imaging, and mobile communications. For more information, visit: www.sony.net