MLB Selects Panasonic HD Cameras for Game Coverage

The MLB Network will use 33 Panasonic AK-HC1500G 2/3-inch multiformat 1080i/720p HD point-of-view cameras installed in all 30 major league ballparks across the country to deliver its non-stop baseball action and programming.



The HC1500G cameras will be installed at the major league ballparks in various locations to allow the network to capture unique perspectives from every game during the season. Additionally, Panasonic’s AW-HE100 integrated HD camera will be used in-studio as a “flash” camera for interviews and for point of view shots. All of the in-field and in-studio cameras can be remotely controlled from the network’s Secaucus, N.J. headquarters.

“With this new system, we have cameras placed in strategic areas so fans can see more of what is happening at the park, even between innings. It allows us to show other interesting content, rather than just the typical broadcast coverage,” said Darrell Wenhardt, president of CBT, the systems consultant for MLB Network.

The network, which launched in about 50 million cable and satellite homes in January, is implementing a file-based digital workflow system in which all live video and audio, 16 channels per video feed including metadata, captured from every game will be sent to a shared storage area network (SAN) and archive system.

The facility’s editing suites are equipped with Thompson Grass Valley K2 Aurora and Final Cut Pro systems. They plan to utilize LTO 4 data tape with for archiving.