Abstract: A plurality of CCD image pickup devices are provided. When the multiplex exposure is executed, the exposure timings of the plurality of image pickup devices are set to different timings. The output signals of the plurality of image pickup devices of different timings are synchronized and synthesized, thereby forming a multiplexed signal.

Abstract: A video signal inverting circuit, wherein a pedestal level of an output signal is selectively changed between a posi-mode and a nega-mode. The pedestal level of the output video signal is set equal to the pedestal level of the posi-mode output video signal in the nega-mode in accordance with a nega-mode/posi-mode control signal. In spite of the nega-mode/posi-mode control signal, a level setting circuit for the posi-mode is used during horizontal blanking period in the nega-mode.

Abstract: A circuit for controlling the gain of an amplifier typically used in a video camera has a automatic gain control circuit to provide the camera output signal within predetermined limits and a switch to permit exclusion of the automatic gain control feature and the use of a manually variable gain control having a greater range and overlapping that of the automatic gain control to provide further flexibility to the user of the camera so that objects normally too bright or too dark to be accommodated within the range of the automatic gain control circuit can be recorded. Differential amplifiers operating in conjunction with current mirror circuits are provided in both the variable gain amplifier circuit and in the circuit that provides the gain control signal thereto to provide a gain control circuit that lends itself to integrated circuit fabrication.

Abstract: A circuit having a nonlinear response characteristic provides gamma compensation to a video luminance signal and matches any desired output response curve by selecting the number of diodes connected as series-connected circuits in the compensation circuit. The relationship among the various numbers of series-connected diodes is dependent upon having a current flowing into an output circuit which is the same as a current flowing out of a collector circuit of a differential amplifier, to which the input video luminance signal is applied, and through series-connected diode circuit. These currents are maintained equal by use of a current-mirror circuit, which provides an input current to an output transistor that has in its emitter circuit one of the series-connected diode circuits, and the compensated luminance signal flows in the collector circuit thereof.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for automatically controlling or locking the iris aperture of a camera. The brightness level of a signal produced by the camera is detected and an automatic control circuit responds to this detected brightness level to energize an iris drive, thereby establishing the iris aperture. The actual size of that aperture is represented by an aperture signal. This aperture signal is used by a control signal generator to generate a control signal corresponding thereto. A selecting circuit is operable to select either an automatic control mode wherein the iris drive is energized by the detected brightness level of the signal produced by the camera, or an iris lock mode wherein the iris drive is energized to maintain the iris aperture at a fixed size irrespective of changes in that brightness level.