Introduction

Canon today released an XL2 Software Developers Kit (SDK) that further enhances the camcorder's flexibility and takes the open architecture of the XL2 Mini-DV camcorder to a new level. Filmmakers, broadcasters, and videographers can now create applications to remotely control all camera functions to meet the needs of individuals and specific industries. By using a FireWire connection, users are able to control all of the XL2 camcorder's advanced functions, inside and out. Some examples include: switching frame rates or adjusting color gain and white balance controls. The software developers kit is free to use.
Canon XL2 Mini-DV camcorder
"The XL2 Mini-DV camcorder is suited for almost any industry due to its open architecture," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. "With the aid of the Software Developers Kit, users will discover a new dimension of creative control."
Customize functionality
The Software Developers Kit can customize functionality for almost every XL2 camcorder application. Whether producing in house or on location, users can easily manage uniform settings on a fleet of camcorders, or control operations remotely. A version of the Software Developers Kit for the Windows XP platform is available now, and a SDK version for Mac OSX operating system will be available in mid July of 2005.