The Portkeys HS8 is an 8″ high-bright monitor that supports 3G-SDI and 4K HDMI/3G-SDI with 3D LUT capabilities.
The HS8 features an 8-inch 10-bit (8+2 FRC) panel with a resolution of 1920 x 1200. It offers a maximum brightness of 1,100 nits and a contrast ratio of 1000:1.
Key Features
- 8-inch, 10-bit panel with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 and a 1000:1 contrast ratio.
- Daylight viewable with a maximum brightness of 1,100 nits.
- Factory color-calibrated for precise and accurate monitoring with no color banding.
- Connectivity includes 1 x HDMI 2.0 input, 1 x HDMI output, 1 x 3G-SDI input, and 1 x 3G-SDI output with cross-conversion capabilities.
- 3D LUT monitoring and 3D LUT HDMI/SDI output.
- Professional monitoring tools such as Waveform, Histogram, Zebra, Peaking, False Color, Anamorphic image de-squeeze, and Audio Meters.
- Built-in dual Sony NP-F style battery plates.
- DC 7-20V 5.5mm barrel connector power input for external power (D-Tap cable included).
- VESA 100 x 100 mounting points for V-Mount/Gold-Mount batteries.
- Built-in Sony NP-F dummy battery plate with power passthrough (8V/10W) to attach and power a wireless video receiver.
- Rugged all-aluminum housing, weighing only 675g / 1.48 lbs.
Design and Build
The Portkeys HS8 has a durable all-aluminum housing with removable and replaceable protective glass in front of the display. Its dimensions are 208 x 133.7 x 50.5mm, and it weighs 675g / 1.48 lbs.
All video and power input/output ports are recessed to protect the connectors and prevent accidental damage. The monitor includes one 4K DCI 60p HDMI and one 3G-SDI 1080P60 video input port. It also has one HDMI and one 3G-SDI video output port, both supporting resolutions up to 1080P60, with cross-conversion capabilities from HDMI input to SDI output and vice versa.
Power Options
The monitor features a DC 7-20V power input with a locking DC 5.5×2.1mm barrel connector, allowing extended use via a V-Mount/Gold Mount battery and the included D-TAP to screw-in DC power cable. The dual Sony NP-F battery plate at the back supports hot-swap capabilities, providing close to five hours of power with two Sony NP-F970 batteries.
Unique Features
A notable feature of the HS8 is the addition of a removable and rotatable Sony NP-F power output dummy battery. This design allows users to attach and power a wireless video receiver directly at the back of the HS8. The adapter can be rotated 360° without any tools via a large yellow knob.
User Interface
The monitor includes four user-assignable buttons, an on/off switch, a dedicated video input button, and a dual-function menu and scroll wheel. It also has four 1/4″-20 mounting points and locating pins on each side.
Monitoring Tools
The HS8 offers a comprehensive suite of monitoring tools, including:
- 3D LUT monitoring with 3D LUT SDI output capabilities. Custom LUTs can be loaded via the USB-A port.
- RGB and Luma Waveform/Histogram exposure tools, with an adjustable Zebra tool.
- Customizable False Color with 13 different colors, including ARRI False Color.
- Anamorphic image de-squeeze with standard ratios (1.33x, 1.5x, 2.0x) and custom aspect ratios from 0.25 to 4.0x.
- Peaking and Zoom functions.
- 3G SDI Level A/B auto output and SDI transformation from Progressive to Interlaced.
- Framing tools: crosshair, check field, guides, grids, and rectangle crop.
- Audio meters.
- Monitor adjustments: black level, backlight, contrast, color temperature, sharpness, chroma, brightness, tint, HDR HLG, and OSD Flip mode.
Accessories and Pricing
The Portkeys HS8 comes with a D-Tap to locking 5.5mm power cable, a screen cleaning wipe, a USB key, a set of M3 Allen screws, an Allen key, and replacement cup head gaskets for the protection screen. The monitor is available for purchase at $399 USD.
About Portkeys
Portkeys is a company that specializes in developing high-tech photographic monitors. Their product line includes a variety of camera monitors known for their high brightness, color accuracy, portability, and durability. Portkeys monitors are popular among filmmakers and videographers for their professional-grade features and competitive pricing.
News source: Portkeys