A Compact 1/2 IT CCD Color Camera Solution for demanding machine vision, remote monitoring and microscopy applications

An ideal camera for remote monitoring, broadcasting and military operations applications, the Sony XC-555 (XC555), is a 1/2 type IT CCD, light-weight (60g) and slim single-piece color camera that operates without a Camera Control Unit (CCU). The lack of a CCU coupled with a slim, single-piece design (22h x 22w x 75d mm) allows for camera installation in small, restricted areas. Available in both NTSC (XC-555) and PAL (XC-555P) versions, the XC-555 only needs a 12 V DC power supply to acquire video output signals and uses a one of a kind compacted NF mount lens system which can be transformed into a flexible C mount lens using a c-mount adapter.

Sony XC-555 1/2 typs IT CCD Color Camera

The Sony XC-555 can be used as a RocketCam on NASA flights for visualizing key events in real time from launch through the outer limits of the atmosphere and into space. The RocketCam is built to withstand extreme conditions including vibrations, hot and cold temperatures, vacuum and lighting environments and has successfully sent back high quality color video. Used not only for viewing audience purposes the XC-555, (XC555), sends back useful coverage of certain launch events from angles NASA engineers could not see before.

NASA Space Shuttle Image of Camera

As a color broadcast camera, the XC-555 is used in a variety of applications including motocross, hockey and reality shows. It is securely fitted on either side of most full-faced or open-faced helmets for road or moto-x to allow for optimal positioning while riding. Hockey has also used it to change views for the viewers. Earlier hockey helmet cams that were mounted to the outside of the helmet caused safety issues, now the XC-555 is built into the goalie's facemask to get full coverage of all on ice action. Real life Ghost Busters, the crew of the reality television show Ghost Hunters, use a magnitude of different cameras. Although most filming is done at night, the Sony XC-555 is used in special situations and aids in filming lighted areas.

Goalie Helmet Cam

The Sony XC-555 is also used in military applications including but not limited to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). An example would be the Aerosonde Robotic Aircraft. This uses the XC-555 to relay real time video imagery into high-resolution digital static images. It has been used to obtain information in many different significant flights. In 2007 the Aerosonde entered the eye and boundary layer of Hurricane Noel. Its petite size also allows for it to fly secrecy missions making it a wonderful surveillance and monitoring tool for the military.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle by Aerosonde

Replacing the Sony XC-999 and XC-777A, the more precise XC-555 is ultimately an ideal camera solution for those looking to integrate it into not only machine vision, multimedia and remote monitoring applications, but also a variety of other applications including research, entertainment, security and more. If you are looking for an ultra-compact, durable camera this one is for you.

Stadler, Kristi (2009, Feb 5). The XC-555, a compact, color camera solution.  Aegis Electronic Group, Inc.