Panasonic AK-HRP1000 – Camera Chains & Accessories

The AK-HRP1000 supports AK-UC3000, AK-HC5000, AK-HC3500A, AK-HC3800, AW-UE100, AW-HE120, AW-HE130, AW-HR140, and VariCam LT. You can control cameras directly via serial connection (20 m max) or through a CCU via IP control (50 m max to CCU). Direct camera connection is ideal for lightweight OB setups; CCU routing provides centralized control in larger multi-camera chains. Confirm your specific camera model's control protocol (serial vs. IP) before deployment, as this determines wiring architecture and control latency.

The AK-HRP1000 can address multiple camera types through its RJ45 LAN interface and serial control line, but switching between serial and IP control modes depends on your system configuration and installed firmware. In a mixed chain, you typically designate one control path (serial to camera or IP to CCU) per operator session. For true simultaneous multi-camera operation, consult Panasonic's system integration guide for your specific camera models to confirm IP/serial coexistence. Multi-panel setups are the standard solution for large mixed chains.

Direct serial control to camera supports 20 m; IP control through a CCU extends to 50 m, leveraging Ethernet robustness over longer runs. In large OB vans or distributed stadium setups, a CCU positioned centrally with Ethernet backbone allows remote panels anywhere within standard CAT5e/6 distances (100 m theoretical, 50 m recommended for broadcast). Direct camera connection suits compact trucks and single-camera ENG rigs. Choose your control topology early: centralized CCU architecture scales better for multi-camera; direct control minimizes latency for critical single-camera operations.

Four AK-HRP1000 units occupy exactly one standard 19-inch rack space (total 4RU footprint). Each unit consumes 0.51 A at 12 V DC (direct power) or 0.15 A at PoE (significantly lower heat dissipation). Stacking four panels generates minimal thermal load—no active cooling required. However, ensure adequate airflow and cable routing behind the rack for power and LAN runs. Operating temperature range is 0–40 °C; in hot OB vans, position the rack away from RF amplifiers and keep ambient below 35 °C for margin.

PoE power (42–57 V DC) reduces per-panel current draw to 0.15 A, making four panels consumable on a single high-power PoE switch (e.g., Cisco Catalyst or Netgear M4300, rated 90–130 W total). Direct 12 V DC powering (0.51 A per panel) requires separate supply rails for four units (~2 A total). For redundancy-critical systems, combine PoE for primary panels with a 12 V backup supply for failover operation. Verify your switch's PoE budget and confirm it supports the required voltage range before deployment.

The SD card slot enables storage and rapid recall of camera control presets, joystick assignments, and user-knob configurations. In a five-camera production, you program focus/iris/white-balance presets on one panel, export to SD, and load onto four additional panels in seconds instead of manual reconfiguration. This is essential for time-sensitive OB work and fast-turnaround outside broadcasts. Consult your camera model's documentation for supported preset formats (AK-HC and AW-series models support native preset export). Always test preset compatibility across firmware versions before deployment.

If IP control via LAN drops, operation reverts to local serial control (if a direct serial line is configured) or the camera defaults to its internal control menu—both are jerky for active production. Redundancy requires dual-path architecture: run both serial and IP cables to critical cameras, or deploy a second RCP with independent LAN connection on a separate switch VLAN. PoE failover to 12 V battery backup also preserves panel function during network outage. Plan failover topology during system design; retrofit is expensive and risky during live broadcast.

The AK-HRP1000's compatibility list includes major Panasonic studio/ENG cameras, but control feature set (autofocus, ND filter speed, gain stepping) depends on camera firmware revision. Panasonic periodically releases firmware updates that expand RCP control scope. Before purchase, request a compatibility matrix from Panasonic technical support matching your camera's current firmware version to the latest panel firmware. Also confirm which control features are protocol-limited (serial vs. IP) for your specific models, as some advanced functions (e.g., zoom speed ramp) may require IP connectivity.

The RJ45 LAN interface is a standard Ethernet port; integrate it into your broadcast LAN following SMPTE ST 2110 segmentation best practices: dedicate a broadcast VLAN (e.g., 192.168.1.0/24) separate from IT corporate networks to avoid latency and security conflicts. Configure static IP addressing for the panel and CCU to prevent DHCP-induced control dropouts. Disable IP multicast if unused. Coordinate with your IT/security team on port access and firewall rules. PoE deployment simplifies cabling but ensure your PoE switch firmware supports professional broadcast IP devices—consumer-grade switches may introduce jitter on control packets.

Yes, every used or ex-demo unit is tested and covered by a 90-day warranty. In the event of a failure, the round-trip transport cost is shared equally between the customer and Broadcast Depot.

Yes, Broadcast Depot ships worldwide. We arrange transport on quotation, or you can use your own carrier. Delivery usually takes 3 to 5 days. OB vans are delivered by driver or collected on site.

Yes, in case of an error or if you would like another product from our stock: returns and exchanges are possible with no time limit. Contact us to arrange it.