Panasonic new wearable HX-A1 action camera

The new HX-A1 action camera is ideal for recording dynamic action video in outdoor situations. (Source: Panasonic.)

The HX-A1’s sturdy construction makes it waterproof and shockproof to 1.5 metres as well as dust-resistant and usable in temperatures down to -10 °C. Equipped with a 4.8 x 3.6 mm MOS sensor, the camera can capture still images at 2.99 megapixels with a 16:9 aspect ratio. Its lens has a focal length of 2.6mm, which covers angles of view of approximately 150 degrees for movies or 120 degrees for stills. A fast f/2.8 aperture provides scope for shooting in low light levels and the HX-A1 features a new ‘0 Lux night mode’, which combines an IR lens filter and an optional infrared light to capture ‘night vision’ images of subjects in near total darkness.

The HX-A1 records to a MicroSD card and users can choose between shooting Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps or slow motion 720p video at 60 fps or 848 x 480 video at 120 fps. An optional screw-on battery extends recording time to two hours and 45 minutes and the unit includes a USB port for constant USB power. Wi-Fi capability allows the shooting angle to be monitored and adjusted via smartphone or tablet for sharing adventure footage on the spot using the Panasonic Image App. The HX-A1 can be used in ‘Wireless Twin Camera’ mode with a Panasonic WX970,VX870, V770 or W570 camcorder or double as a webcam when connected to a computer via USB.

Panasonic will release a wide range of bundled and optional accessories with the HX-A1, including various mounting devices, extended batteries, strap adaptors and microphone wind socks. The HX-A1 weighs only 45 grams with MicroSD  card installed. A kit containing the camera, VW-MKA1 Multi Mount, VW-CTA1 Tripod Mount and GP99

Mount Adapter for GoPro accessories is due to go on sale in late June 2015 at an RRP of AU$299. For more information, visit http://www.panasonic.com/au/consumer/imaging/camcorders.html.