The release of SUP 5.0 marks another milestone in the continual process of expanding and refining the ALEXA toolset. This latest software update incorporates a range of improvements to the already versatile functionality of ARRI ALEXA cameras, but perhaps the most eagerly anticipated new feature is an option to purchase a High Speed mode that permits shooting at up to 120 fps.
Following the Anamorphic Desqueeze license, High Speed mode is the second ALEXA
software upgrade to be made available as a license. While SUP 5.0 – with its many other improvements – is a free update for ALEXA customers, the High Speed mode it enables is an entirely new feature and can only be activated through the purchase of a license key at the ALEXA License Shop. Each license key is coded to a particular camera and can be selectively enabled or disabled, allowing rental facilities control over which cameras are sent out with High Speed mode.
High Speed mode allows ALEXA cameras to capture slow motion images using Apple ProRes codecs (up to 422 HQ 16:9) and Sony 64 GB SxS PRO cards, eliminating the expense of carrying a separate high speed camera. By using the same Super 35 sensor area as Regular Speed mode, High Speed mode maintains the same depth of field and angle of view for all lenses, along with ALEXA’s wide exposure latitude, high sensitivity, natural colorimetry and organic, film-like image quality.
Recording such high data rates requires the use of SONY’s new SxS PRO 64 GB cards. These cards are built to the same tough reliability and environmental standards as the SxS PRO 32 GB cards, while offering twice the recording capacity and over twice the data rates. Even without the High Speed license, the SxS PRO 64 GB cards allow recording of ProRes 4444 at 60 fps (with SUP 5.0).
Other key features of ALEXA SUP 5.0:
-> 60 fps ARRIRAW over 3G Dual Link
-> 60 fps HD-SDI 4:4:4 over 3G Dual Link
-> 60 fps ProRes 4444 when using SxS PRO 64 GB cards
-> Horizontal Image Mirroring (3D)
-> ARRI Look Files for playback of QuickTime/ProRes Log C files
-> Reel & clip number on MON OUT
-> Secure camera display dimming
-> Active look indication
-> Dual record error handling
-> Open Camera Access (OCA) initiative
-> Support for Lens Data Display for Focus Puller (ALEXA Plus only)
About ARRI
With headquarters located in Munich, Germany, Arnold and Richter Cine Technik (A&R) was founded in 1917 and is the world’s largest manufacturer and distributor of motion picture camera, digital intermediate (DI) and lighting equipment. The ARRI Group comprises a global network of subsidiaries, agents and representatives that covers all aspects of the film industry: design, engineering, production, equipment rental, turnkey lighting solutions, postproduction, film and sound laboratory services, and visual effects. Manufactured products include the groundbreaking ALEXA digital camera system, film cameras, professional camera accessories, cutting-edge LED lighting and DI solutions such as the ARRISCAN and archive tools. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has recognized ARRI technologies and continual innovation with 16 Scientific and Engineering Awards. For locations and more information please visit www.arri.com.
