Research on Image Pickup Tube for Camera
Domestic studies on image pickup tubes, a key device for cameras, started with the production of iconoscopes and image-orthicons, which RCA had originally created. In due course, advances were made regarding the acquisition and accumulation of independent technologies, such as those which improved the life expectancy and resolution of the image-orthicon.In 1972, the Saticon was produced from studies to enhance resolution while maintaining the high-quality picture of the Plumbicon. The Saticon made possible a handheld camera system, which finally led to a contract with RCA for patent implementation in 1977.

Ultrahigh-sensitivity HDTV Handheld Camera
While the image pickup tube for the NTSC camera system was gradually being replaced with a solid-state device - the Charge Coupled Device (CCD), during the early stages of HDTV research, only the Saticon could produce a Hi-Vision (HDTV) level of resolution. HARP (High-gain Avalanche Rushing amorphous Photoconductor) photoconductive film, which is based on the epoch-making principle of avalanche multiplication, was the product of research to increase the sensitivity of the Saticon (1985). Presently, an ultrahigh-sensitivity HDTV handheld camera using a HARP image pickup tube is employed as an emergency report camera.

1. Image pickup device development - from image pickup tube to CCD
2. Microphone
3. Evolution of TV news gathering
4. VTR