Introduced at NAB 2011, the Phantom 65-Z3D system is built on a unique design concept and offers several advantages for creating uncompromised, high quality, user-comfortable 3D content, as well as significant production, workflow and post benefits. The system uses a single Phantom 65 Digital Cinema camera and Zepar Stereo 3D Prime Lenses to record two 35mm film-sized images side-by-side within the Phantom 65’s single 65mm sensor.

By using a single sensor, the P65-Z3D is like a pair of parallel cameras, in that there is no toeing-in. By adding the capability to adjust the lenses horizontally in front of the sensor, thus changing the distance between the lenses, it is possible to affect the zero parallax distance and therefore determine the point where objects appear in front of the screen and behind the screen. This approach means that images produced by the P65-Z3D parallel capture are clean and free of optical distortion, from either beamsplitter artifacts or image keystoning.

Since the P65-Z3D system is built around a single camera, it offers a small footprint that is ideal for feature and commercial productions. It can also be used a B-camera alongside traditional 3D rigs, or as the Steadicam, handheld or jib unit. What’s more, the Phantom 65 used in this configuration can offer frame rates over 300fps at 1920×1080 resolution.

The Phantom 65-Z3D also shines when it comes to workflow, offering a safe and efficient process from capture through post. Because both images are married to the same frame, all workflow processes are simplified from off-load to conversion to editing to archiving. While it is possible to separate the images for viewing or simplified 2D editing, there is never an issue of synchronizing or losing separate media.

The Phantom 65 camera was developed by Vision Research. The system uses Zepar lenses by MKBK. The Phantom 65-Z3D is available for rent from AbelCine in North America and Dedo Weigert Film in Europe.

For more information on the Phantom 65-Z3D system, including technical specs, download the product brochure, or read our articles −

» Advantages of the Phantom 65-Z3D 3D Technique

» Technical Components of the Phantom 65-Z3D System