PlayStation Camera

Intro

Back in 2014, gaming console giant Sony introduced the PlayStation®Camera, that captures live stream and tracks movements of the PS4 controllers. While its use may be limited back then, the recent growth in the VR industry puts the PlayStation®Camera an important component in the company’s venture into VR gaming.

In September 2016, Sony released an upgraded model that features the same specification, but spot a modern cylindrical outlook as compared to its predecessor’s rectangular design. It is sold separately at $59 per unit, but also available in the PS VR bundle.

Features

The PlayStation®Camera tracks human movement, together with the DUALSHOCK™4 and PlayStation®Move using a 3D depth sensing technology to provide the much needed intuitive immersive experience once lacking for the console.

It also boasts a facial recognition login system, for better users security using its F2.0 fixed focus dual lens camera. With 4-channel array-type microphones, the PlayStation®Camera enables voice command as a navigational method, delivering new convenience to users.

The PlayStation®Camera also brings the possibility of live-streaming game plays with a picture in picture video. With its built in microphones, it became easy in creating and narrating game walkthrough.

Hardware

The PlayStation®Camera has gone through an evolution from a rectangular design to a cylindrical unit in its 2016 revision. It comes with a stand for angle adjustment.

It features two F2.0 fixed focus camera together with a 4 channel array type microphones. It came with a 2 meters cable that connect the console.

Technical Specifications

• Video frame rate 1280x800 pixels when 60fps
• 640x400 pixels at the time 120fps
• 320x192 pixels at the time 240fps
• Video format RAW, YUV (uncompressed)
• Lens Dual lens, F value /F2.0 fixed focus
• Shooting distance 30cm
• Shooting range 85 °
• Microphone 4-channel array-type microphone
• Connecting terminal PS4 dedicated terminal (AUX terminal)
• Cable length About 2m

Apps

Some of the common games played with the PlayStation®Camera

• The Playroom
• Alien: Isolation
• Just Dance
• LittleBigPlanet 3
• Surgeon Simulator
• Tearaway Unfolded

References

• https://www.psu.com/news/31081/New-PS4-camera-vs-old-PS4-camera-comparison---whats-the-difference
• http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/worth-buying-playstation-camera-ps4/
• https://www.playstation.com/en-us/explore/accessories/playstation-camera-ps4/
• https://www.gottabemobile.com/should-you-buy-a-playstation-camera/