The cameras will be deployed for live-to-air program production and in-venue videoboard productions at Cintas Center and other athletics venues.

"Dockable cameras were the logical choice because they can be operated in studio, stage or outdoor locations," says the Cintas Center's senior associate technical director, Chris Schaaf. "Ikegami's HDK-99 camera systems tick every box in terms of image quality, versatility, ease of control and physical robustness. They incorporate all the creative tools we desired, while also being easy to use for less experienced operators. Ease of setup, along with fantastic build quality, make them a great choice for college sports where it’s not a matter of if but when the camera will take a hit from someone or something. We’re confident that these systems can stand up to the rigors of sports production."

He continued, “That can be very demanding in terms of picture detail, fast action, wide variations in video contrast and the need for accurate color rendition. The cameras produce a good image from the moment they power up. A minimal amount of tweaking turns that good image into a great image.”

Future-proofing was another key consideration in this purchase. Each HDK-99 supports 3G-SDI HD production in SDR, HDR and wide color gamut.

“We also have the option to purchase a license key which provides a UHD output at the base station from an HD source, processing very cleanly from 2K to 4K resolution. That makes the transition from HD to UHD production very affordable if or when we transition to the new standard."

Ikegami’s blurb for the camera is as follows: The HDK-99 incorporates three 2/3-inch 2.6 megapixel CMOS sensors, each capable of capturing 1920 x 1080 resolution images at greater than 600% dynamic range and a sensitivity of F11 at 60 Hz combined with high signal-to-noise ratio and modulation depth. 1080p, 1080i and 720p HD formats are supported. The HDK-99 connects to the compact and lightweight BSX-100 base station using up to 6,500 feet of SMPTE camera cable with integral power or up to 6 miles using single-mode fiber and local power. An optional board provides 12G SDI outputs from the BSX-100, allowing an affordable transition from HD to UHD production. An optional MoIP board is also available to transition to ST.2110 IP connectivity.