When a DSLR simply can’t do, Phase One’s new iXG system delivers for Cultural Heritage digitization

by Jeremy Gray

posted Thursday, May 11, 2017 at 11:00 AM EDT

In addition to announcing the Phase One IQ3 100MP Achromatic, the world’s highest-megapixel achromatic digital back, the Danish company also announced a new capture solution for Cultural Heritage digitization projects, the iXG Camera System.

The PhaseOne iXG is an industrial-built, fully integrated camera available in 50 and 100-megapixel configurations with two interchangeable repro-lenses, 72mm and 120mm macro. As a "fully integrated camera," the iXG does offer interchangeable lenses, but it is not a camera body with a removable digital back like the Phase One XF Camera System. There are two 100-megapixel versions available: one color version and the other using the new Sony achromatic sensor found in the Phase One IQ3 100MP Achromatic. The camera system is built to guarantee at least one million actuations. It has been designed to process high volumes of Cultural Heritage subject matter including documents, books, transparent film, glass plates and more. The new system runs on an updated version of Capture One Cultural Heritage (CH) software and comes with an adjustable copy stand.

To ensure accuracy, the system uses motor driven focusing and position recording while relying on a contrast detect autofocus system. The Schneider Kreuznach repro-lenses are designed to provide the ultimate in resolution, flatness and color reproduction. Peter Stig-Nielsen, Phase One’s Business Manager, says, “We designed this camera system to address the need for high volume digitization, processes where efficiency and outstanding imaging quality are essential. With our eye always on the future, we are driven to create this solution in a durable and dynamic system that works hard and stands the test of time. The iXG Camera System captures images of up to 100-megapixels of incredible detail, and stands out with customized software, Capture One Cultural Heritage, and adjustable copy stands to deliver efficiency in the precise capture of the world's finest cultural artifacts."