Jul 19: Kodak Sponsers Olympics

Kodak - Press Release
Jul 19, 2004 09:03

Kodak And The Olympic Games: A Legacy Of Support
ROCHESTER, N.Y. --(Business Wire)-- July 19, 2004 Eastman Kodak Company

-- "Kodak is a very important member of the Olympic Family. It takes a very active role in helping us stage the world's greatest event. And through its various marketing efforts, Kodak helps us share the Olympic spirit with the world."

-- Jacques Rogge, President, International Olympic Committee.

When the first Modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896, Kodak, then just 16 years old, was there. More than a century later, the Olympic Games remain the pinnacle of athletic endeavor - and Kodak, a long-standing Olympic Sponsor, will again be there, this time providing security badges for all participants, digital medical imaging equipment in the athlete's clinic, and support for the more than 1,000 professional photographers who will capture the drama of the world's most photographed competition using both film and digital technologies. Indeed, Kodak will digitize all images -including film - for rapid dissemination around the world. (See fact sheets attached.)

"Kodak is in the business of capturing and sharing memories, and few world events create positive memories quite like the Olympic Games," said Daniel A. Carp, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Eastman Kodak Company. "Over the past 27 Games back to 1896, virtually every record-breaking moment has been captured on Kodak film. These ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games, however, will mark the first primarily digital Olympic Games in history. Kodak people are proud to play a key role in bringing digital imaging to the Games with products and services crucial to the conduct of the Games."

Kodak to operate the world's largest photo lab.

The Kodak Image Center, an 18,000 square-foot facility within the Main Press Center, will provide traditional film and digital photographic products and services to accredited professional photographers. Kodak will digitize 100% of the estimated 3 million images to be processed through the Kodak Image Center, making it quicker and easier to share these memorable moments with audiences around the world. Kodak will also provide photojournalists with on-site image-rich publishing, producing postcards and poster-sized prints of key images for display purposes. Using the company's NexPress 2100 digital color press, Kodak will publish daily newsletters, invitations, and daily event guides for sponsors.

Kodak technology will help serve the healthcare needs of the athletes and staff.

Kodak will supply the Olympic Polyclinic, the healthcare clinic located within the Olympic Village, with technologies enabling radiologists to electronically send digital X-ray images, CT scans, and other medical images and accompanying reports to specialists at the ATTIKO University Hospital in metropolitan Athens for consultation, thus helping ensure rapid diagnosis and treatment.

Kodak will also equip the Polyclinic with systems that capture X-ray images digitally in seconds; with innovative dental products to diagnose any injuries that may involve teeth, jaw fractures and dislocations; and with a broad range of services to ensure optimal integration and operation of these advanced systems and products. The Kodak dental film and equipment can be expected to serve as a primary source of dental care for many athletes from all over the world; for some, a first-time experience.

"Because our systems allow images to be sent electronically to remote specialists, an injured athlete will not have to travel across town for diagnostic imaging services. This is key, since rapid diagnosis and treatment can mean the difference between an athlete returning to competition or having to drop out of the Games," said Dan Kerpelman, President of Kodak's Health Imaging Group and a senior vice president of the company.

Much of the Kodak medical and dental imaging equipment will be purchased by the ATHENS 2004 Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games and will remain at the Polyclinic after the Games conclude.

Security badges by Kodak.

It will be Kodak systems that produce the more than 350,000 security badges and 80,000 visa credentials required for the Olympic athletes, officials, volunteers, and sponsors. Each credential will be produced in a record-breaking time of just 10 seconds.

Kodak to provide on-site digital services for Olympic spectators.

Olympic fans can print, share, and store their Olympic memories at the Kodak Digital Picture Center, a 2500-square-foot facility located in the OAKA Common Domain.

"For the first time at an Olympic Games, spectators will be able to use KODAK PictureMaker kiosks to print images captured from their digital cameras or mobile phone-cameras," said Bernard Masson, President of Kodak's Digital & Film Imaging Systems group and senior vice president of the company. "They can also use our online photo services, Ofoto and KODAK Picture Center Online to instantly share their digital photos with friends and family around the world."

The Kodak Digital Picture Center will also allow fans to create a personalized Olympic photo pin as a unique souvenir from the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games. Kodak films, one-time-use cameras, batteries, and digital cameras, memory cards, and printer docks will be available for purchase at this facility.

"As much as the Olympic Games provide a platform to showcase Kodak products and innovation, it also offers the opportunity for both to highlight the similar pillars on which they were founded," Carp said. "The Olympic Games have a heritage of personal excellence, fair play, cultural understanding and respect for humanity, which are perfectly aligned with Kodak's corporate values of integrity, diversity, trust, respect for the dignity of each individual, continual improvement and personal renewal, recognition and celebration."

For more information, see fact sheets attached and visit: http://www.kodak.com/go/olympic

ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games

Kodak Fact Sheet - Accreditation

Kodak will provide all the accreditation badges required by the more than 350,000 athletes, coaches, sponsors, contractors, volunteers, and security personnel--virtually everyone except spectators--who will participate in the 17-day event. Kodak will provide the same service during the 12 days of the Paralympics, which begin in Athens Sept. 17.

-- The accreditation process consists of obtaining a person's image identification and merging this image with their appropriate access rights and classification. Accreditation badges not only act as the primary security pass, but also as a means of identifying which venues and where in the venue a person is assigned, their job title, nationality, and what transportation and dining privileges are authorized.

-- Everyone needing access to the Olympic venues must first submit an application to the Uniform Distribution and Accreditation Center (UAC) in Athens. The applications are scanned into a database utilizing a Kodak Digital Science Color Scanner 3590C. Special Kodak software allows the scanned image to be cropped and data added and displayed on a computer screen. The scanners are able to read up to 80 forms a minute and distribute the load to distributed workstations to process the data. Local applicants in Greece can go to any one of 80 Kodak Express Stores throughout the country to have their image captured using the latest Kodak digital cameras. There are various other sites in Athens where applicants can have their image captured by Kodak digital camera workstations utilizing Kodak DX4900 digital cameras and Kodak 3590C scanners.

-- The photos are transferred to the accreditation electronic system supplied and maintained by Atos-Origin, the official ATHENS 2004 Games IT partner, where they are merged with appropriate information taken from the applications. It is here that a security background check is done. Once the badge is ready to be printed, it transfers back to Kodak and is output by the Kodak ML500 or Kodak 8660 thermal printer which produces a badge every 10 seconds.

-- Along with the digital cameras and printers, Kodak is also responsible for the operation of day pass printers at 36 sporting venues, over 200 bar code readers, and over 200 lamination machines.

ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games

Kodak Fact Sheet - Kodak Image Center

Kodak has created the world's largest photo lab for the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games, and for the first time in Olympic history, will digitize 100 percent of all professional photos taken at the Games - making it quicker and easier to disseminate images to all parts of the globe.

-- The Kodak Image Center, an 18,000-square foot facility located in the Main Press Center, will serve the needs of more than 1,000 professional photographers and news agencies with traditional and digital photographic products and services. An estimated 3 million images will be acquired and digitized.

-- The ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games will offer the widest array of digital and traditional film technologies and services ever assembled. Accredited photographers can receive a pre-Games digital camera tune-up, digital camera loan and repair service, image scanning, computer workstations with mass electronic storage space, thermal proofing, large-format ink-jet output, large volume production output, film processing, and image transfer to CD. After photographs are converted into digital images, the Image Center can transmit the images using high-speed phone lines to the world's newsrooms. Images will be transferred and stored on Kodak Picture CDs. The technology at the Image Center will save photographers an estimated two hours a day in editing time.

-- Kodak's involvement with the Games began with the first modern Olympiad in Athens in 1896. In 1924, at the Paris Games, Kodak supplied film to professional photographers for the first time. In the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, Kodak introduced new technologies and innovations at the Games, including digital cameras, the Kodak Picture Maker, the Kodak Sticker Print Kiosk and many new professional and consumer films.

ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games

Kodak Fact Sheet - Health Imaging Technologies

General Overview:

State-of-the-art Kodak imaging equipment will provide doctors at the Olympic Polyclinic with the ability to rapidly diagnose athletes' injuries and illnesses. In addition, by transmitting images digitally to specialists at the ATTIKO University Hospital in Athens, radiologists can save time, and in many cases, prevent the need to transport an injured person to an area hospital. In addition, Kodak products and equipment will serve the dental needs of athletes; providing some with their first professional dental experience.

Advanced technology from Kodak in the Polyclinic:

Kodak has installed its advanced DIRECTVIEW PACS System 5 with Diagnostic Workstations that enable immediate viewing of digital images on high-resolution monitors for interpretation by radiologists. This system provides rapid access to images with a RAID-centric solution. Digital archiving is managed with Kodak's long-term storage management software using DIRECTVIEW Versatile Intelligent Patient Archive (VIP archive) technology. Additionally, Kodak's CD Distribution Suite distributes images and reports to patients in a soft copy format as an alternative to films printed by KODAK DIRECTVIEW Laser Imagers.

In addition,

-- Medical Imaging output printers - KODAK DRYVIEW 8900 Laser Imager, KODAK DRYVIEW 8200 Laser Imager and KODAK DRYVIEW 8300 Laser Imagers

-- New to the Olympic Games: KODAK RIS 2010, the state-of-the-art Radiology Information System (RIS) technology that will provide complete radiology workflow management within the Olympic Polyclinic. KODAK RIS 2010 is fully integrated with KODAK DIRECTVIEW PACS System 5, allowing complete and simultaneous management of patients' data and images, providing the radiologist with a single desktop, integrated workstation that enables soft copy reading of images and voice dictation of the report.

-- KODAK DIRECTVIEW CR 850 System, KODAK DIRECTVIEW CR 950 System

-- Kodak Professional Digital Color Printer

-- Dental Image Capture

-- 1 extra oral X-ray digital imaging unit, model Trophypan

-- 3 intra oral X-ray & camera digital imaging units, model Elitys

-- 1 intra-oral visible camera digital imaging unit, model STV Pro

Staffing:

The Olympic Polyclinic will be staffed entirely by volunteers. While medical professors from the University of Athens will oversee each department, imaging services will be directed by Prof. Dimitrios Kelekis, an expert in interventional radiology and chair of radiology at the University of Athens. As director of imaging at the Olympic Polyclinic, Kelekis will be responsible for the efficiency and efficacy of the "front-line" radiological team of about 15 radiologists and 45 radiographers. A substantial number of this group are also University of Athens staff with considerable experience in musculoskeletal radiology.

Kodak's Health Imaging Technology at Recent Olympiads:

At the 2000 Summer Games in Sydney, Kodak's medical imaging technology served 1,410 athletes and supported over 1,900 examinations. At the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Kodak technology served 4,500 athletes and implemented more than 400 exams.

Business Overview:

Kodak's Health Imaging Group is a world leader in developing, manufacturing and marketing intelligent products from analog to digital. Its portfolio includes computed radiography and digital radiography systems, laser imagers, picture archiving and communications systems (PACS), radiology information systems, dental imaging and services, and traditional mammography and x-ray film systems.

The group, with 2003 revenues of $2.34 billion, has served the global healthcare community for more than 100 years. The presence of the Kodak's medical imaging technology at the Olympics has had a direct impact on sales. At the 2002 Winter Games, for example, physicians from the Mayo Clinic who were volunteering at the Kodak lab were so impressed by the technology that they later bought $3 million worth of product.

ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games

Kodak Fact Sheet - Kodak Digital Picture Center

To help Olympic ticket holders capture and share their precious Olympic memories with friends and family all over the world, Eastman Kodak Company has set up the Kodak Digital Picture Center in the Common Domain area of the Athens Olympic Sports Complex (OAKA). Underscoring its industry leadership, Kodak will demonstrate an array of pioneering products and services, many for the growing digital market, to expand the visitors' ability to communicate through photography. The Kodak Digital Picture Center showcases elements of the Kodak strategy to create fresh links between taking, storing, organizing, sharing and printing images at home, in the retail environment or online.

-- In the Kodak Digital Picture Center, Kodak demonstrates its newest generation of self-service kiosks that enable consumers to print photo-quality Kodak pictures in minutes from digital cameras or mobile phone cameras. The Kodak Picture Maker kiosk allows consumers to preview, select and print the pictures they want in the sizes and quantities they prefer at retail. Olympic ticket holders can easily download their digital images to a Kodak Picture CD, enabling them to free up space on their memory cards to capture more Olympic action and memories.

-- Olympic ticket holders can also upload their digital pictures to Kodak's online photo services, allowing fans to store and immediately share their pictures with friends and family anywhere in the world.

-- Visitors to the Kodak Digital Picture Center can create their own personal photo pin using Kodak technology. After a picture is taken of a visitor, the picture is printed on a Kodak printer using special sticker prints. The print can be peeled off and placed on a Kodak collectable pin for the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games featuring the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games mascots, creating a truly unique souvenir of the Games.

-- Kodak also will demonstrate the newest EASYSHARE cameras, one of the most popular consumer digital-photography systems. Among these is the KODAK EASYSHARE DX7630 zoom digital camera, with 6-megapixel resolution, which features unmatched image quality among 5- and 6-megapixel consumer digital cameras. EASYSHARE cameras all offer one-touch picture sharing, outstanding picture quality and Kodak's hallmark simplicity of operation. By docking a digital camera to KODAK's EASYSHARE Printer Dock, visitors can easily create great-looking, borderless photos up to 10 x 15 cm (4"x6") in 90 seconds. KODAK XTRALIFE Lamination provides a special protective coating to produce photos that are highly durable, waterproof and last a lifetime. The EASYSHARE Printer Dock is compatible with KODAK EASYSHARE Cameras or any other PictBridge-enabled digital camera.

-- The Kodak Digital Picture Center will be open daily during the Olympic Games from 09h00 - 22h00, and is located in the Athens Olympic Sports Complex common domain area alongside the Agora, near the Neratziotissis metro station entrance.

ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games

Kodak Fact Sheet - Kodak Photo Shop in the Athlete's Olympic Village

In the International Zone of the Athletes' Village, which is located at Menidi, Kodak will provide Kodak Picture Maker facilities for athletes to easily print, share, upload, enhance, and store images from their digital cameras and mobile phones. A full range of printing services will also be provided to athletes using film or single use cameras. The printing services will be offered in four hours and next day service.

-- Athletes will also find a broad variety of Kodak products, ranging from film, one-time use cameras to 35mm cameras, batteries and memorabilia items. In this way, the Kodak Photo Shop in the Olympic Village gives participating athletes an opportunity to experience new ways of preserving and sharing their Olympic memories.

-- Next door to the Kodak Photo Shop, athletes will find the Village's Internet cafe, where PC workstations will allow athletes to upload their digital pictures to Kodak's online photo services, allowing them to store and immediately share their pictures with anyone, anywhere in the world.

Capturing the Olympic Games Experience:

Kodak will supply many opportunities for Olympic fans to capture the Olympic Games experience, including:

-- Kodak Backpackers will provide a mobile vending service at two Olympic common domain areas, the Athens Olympic Sports Complex OAKA and Helliniko.

-- Kodak will also be selling films, single use cameras, batteries and digital camera memory cards at Olympic concession outlets, as well as the Olympic Superstore in the Athens Olympic Sports Complex OAKA.

-- A special Kodak web site, http://www.kodak.com/go/olympic will be created to showcase Olympic information and the Kodak Olympic Picture of the Day, featuring day-to-day photo updates on all the action.

ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games

Kodak Fact Sheet - Kodak Digital Photo Publishing Services

Eastman Kodak Company's Graphic Communications Group will provide image-rich digital photo publishing services for the ATHENS 2004 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Greece. Kodak's Graphic Communications Group will play a key role in the production of image-rich and variable data content at the Games. The Group's activities include:

-- Providing on-site image-rich publishing services at the Kodak Image Center, servicing the needs of the accredited photojournalists covering the Games. Using the award-winning KODAK NEXPRESS 2100 digital production color press and the ENCAD NOVAJET 1000i high-speed wide-format inkjet photo printer, Kodak will produce postcard-sized and poster-sized photo prints of key images of the Games for display purposes.

-- Various Olympic committees and Games Sponsors will use Kodak's suite of imaging and photo publishing services throughout the Games. Kodak will print Opening Ceremony photos and other image related items, on the NEXPRESS 2100 press. Kodak will deliver these imaging services to the International Olympic Committee, the U.S. Olympic Committee, and many of the Games Sponsors.

-- Kodak will operate two NexPress 2100 presses and two NOVAJET photo printers at different locations at the Games to meet the demand for high-quality digital photo color publishing.

-- Kodak's Graphic Communications Group consists of three Kodak companies: Encad, Inc., a maker of large-format inkjet photo printing machines, media and inks; NexPress Solutions, Inc., a leader in on-demand digital color and monochrome image printing systems; and Kodak Versamark, Inc., a world leader in high-speed, 100% variable data printing. The Graphic Communications Group also manages Kodak's interest in Kodak Polychrome Graphics, a 50-50 joint venture with Sun Chemical. The group serves a variety of customers in the in-plant, data center, commercial printing and digital service bureau markets with a range of equipment that spans large-format inkjet printing and digital monochrome printing to on-demand digital image-rich color printing and transactional communications.

ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games

Kodak Fact Sheet - Battery Recycling

At the request of the ATHENS 2004 Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games, Kodak agreed to establish a first-ever battery-recycling program for the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games.

-- The program will run for the duration of the Games--including the Paralympic Games--and provide an environmentally sound approach for disposing of the thousands of batteries visitors are expected to use during the event.

-- Kodak has been a manufacturer of batteries for 15 years, and has years of experience running recycling programs. In fact, since 1990, Kodak has recycled more than one billion one-time-use cameras, which are the world's most recycled consumer product.

-- Kodak has arranged for specially designed and decorated collection containers similar to those currently in use in Germany that are made from specially treated cardboard that is resistant to battery acids and heat, and strong enough to be filled with batteries. The battery-recycling project is in accordance with the ATHENS 2004 Environmental Strategy and enhances the environmental performance of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Athens, showcasing the social responsibility of an Olympic sponsor and of the Organizing Committee.

-- The containers will be located at the 120 Kodak Express Stores participating in the project, as well as various retail locations within the Olympic venues. Kodak representatives will handle the distribution of the containers to the stores, as well as collection of them after the Games conclude. ATHENS 2004 personnel will do the same for the locations inside the venues.

-- Schenker A.E., the Official Provider for the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games, has agreed to be the marshaling point for collected batteries. Schenker A.E. will transport the collected batteries to an approved facility for ultimate disposition.

Jul 19: Self Service Digital Printing Kiosks

This article in the New York Times about the latest strategies of photographic companies to put self service kiosks in retail outlets.

'The industry's latest answer to the conundrum is to pepper stores with self-service kiosks where consumers can edit photos and make their own prints from digital memory cards. Tens of thousands of kiosks are now in drugstores and discount stores. So, with such critical mass finally achieved, the companies are rolling out the advertising cannons.

The CVS drugstore chain, which has in the past dabbled in radio ads and direct mail to drum up digital print business, has begun to run national television ads for its kiosks. Eastman Kodak just started a campaign to do the same. And Fuji has a big rollout scheduled to begin in the fall.' Read More at Photography Companies Try a New Approach.

Jul 17: PDN Photo Annual 2004

PDN Photo Annual 2004 has the year's best images from photographers, magazines, and agencies in 8 separate categories.

It is definitely worth taking some time out to check out some of these shots.

Found via Metafilter

Jul 17: Lets Go Digital Goes French

LetsGoDigital Press Release
LetsGoDigital kicks of with a French edition and extra features

EMST, 16 July 2004: LetsGoDigital, the multilingual online magazine about digital imaging, is proud to announce a French edition of its website. French speaking readers and French natives are now able to get the latest news about what is happening in the world of digital imaging at www.letsgodigital.fr By reaching out to the French speaking audience LetsGoDigital considerably expands the effect on its publications. According to Dennis Hissink, editor of LetsGoDigital UK and Dutch edition: "By investing in a new French edition we are able to bring the daily news in an extra language beside the already existing editions of LetsGoDigital; English, Dutch and Spanish."

Raphael Lessinger, editor of LetsGoDigital France: "By kicking of a French edition we will be able to reach a possible figure of millions of French speaking readers. For France it will be a welcome news source for those who want to know the latest of Digital Imaging."

Beside expanding the website with a French edition LetsGoDigital also added new and upgraded existing items within the website. New functionalities like the QuickTabs with short and up-to-date news from the world of Internet, print a review, enhanced comparison of digital cameras directly out of the LetsGoDigital's database of nearly 700 cameras, search a camera by selecting certain features, a new image gallery and numerous small, but important updates within the content management system. Beside upgrading on the software side, we have upgraded the internal memory of our own servers to ensure stability.

"For a long time we had some new features and functionalities on our wish-list and upgrading the LetsGoDigital website with a French edition was the perfect time to grant our wishes", commented Mark Peters, coordinator of LetsGoDigital. "In the near future we will continue to improve the website and whenever the time is right upgrade it with another edition!"

Beside the online magazine the team of LetsGoDigital also maintains websites like Photokina-show.com, pma-show.com, cebit-show.com, ifa-show.com and ces-show.com where the reports of those events are published. Expect a special and extensive report of the upcoming Photokina event (28 September - October 3, 2004), held in Cologne, Germany.

The team of LetsGoDigital members are: Mark Peters, Dennis Hissink, Toni Fernandez, Raphaël Lessinger, José Snijders and Koert Buijze.

Jul 17: Fujifilm Finepix S7000 - 'About' Review

'About Photography' has a review of the Fujifilm Finepix S7000 and writes:

'I am thoroughly impressed with the image quality this digital camera produces. The 6 megapixel images are some of the sharpest I have seen in a compact camera. According to the literature, this digital camera produces 12 megapixel recorded images, though it has a 6 effective megapixel CCD, due to the design of the CCD....

Despite a couple of disappointments, I found the Fujifilm Finepix S7000 to be a fantastic digital camera overall.'

Read more reviews of the Fujifilm Finepix S7000

Jul 16: Olympus D540 - Imaging Resource Review

Imaging Resource reveiws the Olympus D-540 and writes:

'The D-540 has some limitations and shortcomings (most prominently, the softness in the corners of its images, especially at short range), but these need to be weighed against the rest of its performance and its very low price point. With a list price of $199, and "street" prices generally under $170, the D-540 offers really excellent value for the money.'

Read more reviews of the Olympus D540/C360

Jul 16: SanDisk Announces Record Revenues

SanDisk Corporation Press Release 14/07/04
SanDisk Announces Record Revenues and Operating Income; Year-over-Year Increase in Revenues of 85% and Operating Income of 136%

SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 14, 2004--SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK), the world's largest supplier of flash storage card products, today announced results for the second quarter ended June 27, 2004. Second quarter total revenues increased 85% to $433 million compared to the second quarter of 2003 and increased 12% from the first quarter of 2004. Second quarter net income was $71 million, compared to $41 million and $64 million for the second quarter of 2003 and the first quarter of 2004, respectively. Earnings per share were $0.38 per diluted share compared with $0.26 per diluted share in the same quarter of 2003 and $0.34 per diluted share in the first quarter of 2004.

"Record results for our second quarter are a testimony to the success of SanDisk's strategy and unique business model, which combines vertical integration of leading edge technology, rapid introduction of differentiated products targeted at new applications, expanding worldwide retail distribution and a strong portfolio of patents to generate significant operating margins," said Eli Harari, President and CEO of SanDisk Corporation.

"The pricing moves that we initiated early in the second quarter stimulated consumer demand and resulted in 38% sequential quarterly growth in total megabytes and 24% sequential growth in average capacity per card sold in retail. Product gross margins improved to 35%, despite a 16% decline in average selling price per megabyte, because of a favorable mix of MLC and captive flash, and the positive impact of our product segmentation strategy; fully 25% of the retail revenue in the second quarter came from highly differentiated products. Late in the quarter we shipped first production cards employing our new 4Gbit NAND/MLC chip, and as planned we are starting to ramp 90 nanometer production in the third quarter," added Harari.

"I am particularly encouraged by the growing acceptance of flash cards and modules in dozens of new generation cell phones sporting mega pixel cameras, music players, video clips, video games and internet access, which we expect will be one of the major catalysts for strong growth in demand for our products in the next several years," said Harari.

Second Quarter Highlights
-- Product sales were $391 million, a growth of 16% sequentially and 83% year-over-year.

-- Total gross margin grew to 41% of revenues compared to 40% in the first quarter of 2004 and 38% in the second quarter of 2003.

-- Product gross margin increased to 35%, compared to 32% in both the first quarter of 2004 and in the second quarter of 2003.

-- Operating income was $110 million, a growth of 12% sequentially and 136% year-over-year.

-- Total megabytes sold in the second quarter were a record and increased 38% sequentially and 144% year-over-year.

-- Average price per megabyte sold in the second quarter declined 16% sequentially and 25% year-over-year.

-- Average density per card sold in retail increased sequentially to 236MB from 189MB.

-- Retail sales grew to 81% of product revenues and were particularly strong in North America and Europe.

-- Storefronts grew to approximately 80,000 with the rapid acceptance of our Shoot & Store(TM) products into the food and drug channel and with expansion into China.

-- Mobile phone products, including miniSD(TM), TransFlash(TM), RS-MMC(TM), and Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM) rolled out to retail customers in the worldwide mobile phone channel.

-- SanDisk Extreme(TM) and SanDisk Ultra(R) II high performance cards took top awards in independent performance tests and were among our fastest growing product lines.

-- Sales of the Cruzer(R) line of USB Flashdrive products continued strong growth, and productivity software is now shipping with the Cruzer Titanium.

-- Judy Bruner joined SanDisk as Executive Vice President and CFO and Catherine Lego rejoined SanDisk's Board of Directors and Audit Committee.

Conference Call and Guidance
SanDisk's second quarter 2004 conference call with guidance is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Wednesday, July 14, 2004. Today's teleconference prepared remarks, including third quarter guidance, will be posted to http:// www.corporate-ir.net/ireye/ir_site.zhtml?ticker=sndk&script=2100. The conference call will be web cast by CCBN and can be accessed live, and throughout the quarter, at SanDisk's website at www.sandisk.com/IR and at www.streetevents.com for registered streetevents.com users. To participate in the call via telephone, the dial in number is (800) 314-7867 or (719) 867-0640 for international callers. The call will also be available by telephone replay through Wednesday, July 21, 2004, by dialing (888) 203-1112 or, for international callers, (719) 457-0820 and entering the pass code 229067. A copy of this press release will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on a current report on Form 8-K and will be posted to our website prior to the conference call.

Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including our business outlook, expectations for new product introductions, capacity plans, future revenues, average selling prices, gross margins, operating expenses, capital equipment expenditures and tax rates that are based on our current expectations and involve numerous risks and uncertainties that may cause these forward-looking statements to be inaccurate and may significantly and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Risks that may cause these forward-looking statements to be inaccurate include among others: market demand for our products may grow more slowly than our expectations or a slower adoption rate for these products in new markets that we are targeting, fluctuations in operating results, unexpected yield variances and longer than expected low yields and other possible delays related to our conversion to 90 nanometer NAND flash technology, any interruption of or delay in supply from any of the semiconductor manufacturing facilities that supply products to us, our inability to make additional planned smaller geometry conversions in a timely manner, future average selling price erosion that may be more severe than our expectations due to possible excess industry capacity of flash memory either from existing suppliers or from new competitors, decreased demand, price increases from non-captive flash memory sources and third-party subcontractors, higher than expected operating expenses due to unanticipated hiring and marketing expenses, higher than anticipated capital expenditures due to unexpected outlays for test equipment and FlashVision, adverse global economic and geo-political conditions, including adverse currency exchange rates, the timely development, internal qualification and customer acceptance of new products that are based on the 90-nanometer NAND technology, fluctuations in license and royalty revenues, higher than anticipated tax rates, business interruption due to earthquakes or other natural disasters, particularly in areas in the Pacific Rim where we manufacture and assemble products, further impairment of our investments in Tower Semiconductor Ltd. due to any decline in stock valuations, and the other risks detailed from time-to-time in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings and reports, including, but not limited to, the Form 10-K for the year ended December 28, 2003 and our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Future results may differ materially from those previously reported. We do not intend to update the information contained in this release.

About SanDisk
SanDisk Corporation, the world's largest supplier of flash storage card products, designs, manufactures and markets industry-standard, solid-state data, digital imaging and audio storage products using its patented, high-density flash memory and controller technology. SanDisk is based in Sunnyvale, CA. www.sandisk.com

SanDisk, Cruzer and SanDisk Ultra are trademarks of SanDisk Corporation, registered in the United States and other countries. SanDisk Extreme, Shoot & Store and TransFlash are trademarks of SanDisk Corporation. Memory Stick PRO Duo is a trademark of Sony Corporation. RS-MMC is a trademark of the MultiMediaCard Association. SanDisk Corporation is an authorized licensee of the miniSD trademark. Other brand names mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and may be the trademarks of their respective holders.

Jul 15: CNET Networks to Acquire Webshots

Webshots is Leading Photography Web site Over 14 Million Monthly Visitors

Expected to Be Accretive to Cash from Operations in 2004 and Accretive to EPS in 2005

SAN FRANCISCO, July 14, 2004—CNET Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq: CNET) today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire privately-held Twofold Photos, Inc., and its Webshots Web site (www.webshots.com). Webshots is the leading Web site in the photography category1, and it boasts the largest publicly available collection of shared photo content. Under the terms of the agreement, CNET Networks will pay $60 million in cash and $10 million of deferred consideration. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2004.

Webshots adds to CNET Networks' market-leading portfolio of properties, and enhances the company's position as a premier global interactive content company that informs, entertains, and connects large, engaged audiences around topics of high information need and personal passion. In turn, CNET Networks can further enhance Webshots with relevant content—such as digital camera reviews, help and how-to's, and shopping services—from its world-class sites such as CNET.com.

Since its launch on the Web in 1996, Webshots has amassed by far the largest publicly available collection of photo content, with 58 million images and more than 300,000 new photos uploaded daily. More than 14 million people visit the Webshots community each month to browse, share and engage with fellow users about photos in a range of categories, such as travel, sports and recreation, birthdays, and weddings; activities that generate over 20 million average daily page views.2

While the Webshots and CNET Networks audiences share a passion for the digital lifestyle, the audiences are largely unduplicated. Together, the companies add significant reach and impression inventory for CNET Networks' marketing partners. With the addition of such significant scale, advertisers both inside and outside of the technology and consumer electronics industries will be able to expand their marketing efforts with CNET Networks. Webshots' primary revenue stream is advertising with additional contribution from subscriptions and the sale of prints and other photo merchandise.

"Our acquisition of Webshots is an outstanding example of strategically investing in assets that allow us to continue to fuel the growth of CNET Networks," said Shelby Bonnie, chairman and chief executive officer of CNET Networks.

"Webshots is a market leader with a large, passionate audience that complements the other market-leading properties in our personal technology, and games and entertainment categories, like CNET.com, Download.com, GamesSpot and MP3.com. We see a significant growth opportunity in emerging digital lifestyle categories and we are well positioned with high quality properties that have the scale to satisfy both our users and marketing partners," Bonnie added.

The Internet has enabled digital photo sharing to become a killer personal technology application, with significant growth opportunities. Digital cameras now reside in 39 percent of U.S. households, and unit sales are expected to increase by more than 30 percent this year3. In addition, digital camera owners take a lot more pictures than they did when shooting with film, and Webshots provides the venue for them to share those pictures with the world. In fact, about half of Internet users don't print any of their digital photos4.

"CNET Networks is the leading interactive content company with a history of building engaging environments for passionate users and a marketing infrastructure that will take our business to a higher level," said Narendra Rocherolle, founder and co-CEO of Webshots. "We are excited to work with the CNET Networks team to continue to innovate for our users and to grow Webshots.com."

Financial Highlights
Given the inability to predict the actual closing date, management is not providing any estimates of contribution from Webshots to its third quarter results. The company expects that Webshots will contribute approximately $3.2 million and $3.7 million in revenue, and $1.7 million to $2.0 million in operating income before depreciation and amortization in the fourth quarter of 2004. As a stand-alone entity, Webshots is expected to generate revenues of $12 million to $13 million and operating income before depreciation and amortization between $6.75 million and $7.25 million for the year ending December 31, 2004. For the year ending December 31, 2005, management expects Webshots total revenues to grow between 30 percent and 35 percent from the prior year.

CNET Networks expects the transaction to be accretive to cash from operations in 2004 and accretive to earnings per share in 2005. CNET Networks will be providing updated guidance for the remainder of 2004 in its second quarter earnings release today.

Conference Call and Webcast
CNET Networks management will host a conference call to discuss its second quarter financial results and acquisition of Webshots beginning at 5:00 pm ET (2:00 pm PT), today, July 14, 2004. To listen to the discussion, please visit http://ir.cnetnetworks.com and click on the link provided for the webcast conference call or dial (800) 344-1035 (international dial-in: (706) 679-3076). A replay of the conference call will be available through July 28, 2004 via webcast at the URL listed above or by calling (800) 642-1687 (international dial-in: (706) 645-9291) and entering the conference ID number 8488413. The company's past financial news releases, related financial and operating information, and access to all Securities and Exchange Commission filings, can also be accessed at http://ir.cnetnetworks.com.
Safe Harbor
This press release and its attachments include forward-looking information and statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding the company's expected financial results related to its acquisition of Webshots and Webshots' expected stand-alone financial results, as well as other statements throughout the release that are identified by the words "expect," "estimate," "target," "believe," "anticipate," "intend" and similar expressions. These statements are only effective as of the date of this release and we undertake no duty to publicly update these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. The risks and uncertainties include: the risk that closing conditions will not be met and that the acquisition will not close, a lack of growth or a decrease in marketing spending on Webshots website; the failure of existing advertisers to meet or renew their advertising commitments; the loss of marketing revenue and users to Webshots' competitors; loss of users or customers by Webshots following its acquisition by CNET Networks, which could result in lower than expected revenue and operating income; failure of CNET Networks to successfully integrate Webshots' operations, which could result in increased expenses or loss of revenues; For general risks about CNET Networks' business, see its Annual Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 and subsequent Forms 8-K, including disclosures under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," which are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

About CNET Networks, Inc.
CNET Networks, Inc. (www.cnetnetworks.com) is a premier global interactive content company that informs, entertains, and connects large, engaged audiences around topics of high information need and personal passion. The company focuses on three categories—personal technology, games and entertainment, and business technology—and includes such leading brands as CNET, ZDNet, TechRepublic, MP3.com, GameSpot, CNET Download.com, CNET News.com, Computer Shopper magazine, and CNET Channel. With a strong presence in the US, Asia and Europe, CNET Networks has operations in 12 countries.

1Neilsen//NetRatings' June 2004 U.S. data
2Numbers in this paragraph are based on CNET Networks internal tracking and/or Webshots internal logs.
3March 2004, Consumer Electronics Association's CEA Market Research
42004 InfoTrends/CAP Ventures report

# # #

Investor Relations Contact:
Cammeron McLaughlin
(415) 344-2844
Cammeron.Mclaughlin@cnet.com

Media Contact:
Sarah Winterhalder
(415) 344-2218
617/225-3340
Sarah.Winterhalder@cnet.com

Jul 15: Hamrick Software updates VueScan to 8.0.9

Press Release
Phoenix, AZ July 14, 2004 -- Hamrick Software, a leading developer of scanning software for consumers and professionals, has released VueScan 8.0.9, of its award-winning program that enables users to easily produce better looking digital images from color snapshots, negatives, slides and documents.

The update includes added support for a number of scanners including several PIE-based scanners, and for specific models of Epson, Kodak, and Nikon scanners. This update also makes VueScan easier to use by incorporating an automatic photo-cropping feature that lets a user place a photo anywhere on the scan bed. Additional improvements include new support for Canon EOS and Nikon D raw files, improved support for Minolta and Epson multi-function printers, while improving performance on both Windows and Mac OS X.

Used extensively by professional photographers, film processing labs and consumers around the world, VueScan 8.0.9 now offers an enhanced, user-friendly interface, support for raw files for 109 digital cameras, and support for more than 100 scanners. The Standard Edition of VueScan costs $59.95 USD and the Professional Edition costs $79.95 for a single user license. Multi-user licenses are available. A fully functional, trial copy of VueScan can be downloaded from http://www.hamrick.com/ .

VueScan supports over 100 flatbed and film scanners and more than 110 digital camera raw file types, and is available for Mac OS X, Windows and Linux. It automatically adjusts images to optimum color balance, which reduces the need to manually do this in Photoshop. VueScan includes built-in color calibration of scanners, producing colors that look true to life. Supporting more than 100 brands of negative film, VueScan offers options for scanning faded slides and prints, batch scanning, IT8 color calibration and other advanced scanning features.

For a detailed listing of VueScan features see:
About Vue Scan

Based in Phoenix, AZ, Hamrick Software was founded in 1991. Its first product was VuePrint, an easy to use JPEG viewer for Windows that for many years was the recommended image viewer for AOL, with more than 100,000 users. In 1998, the company first released VueScan, a program for scanning with flatbed and film scanners with more than 50,000 users all over the world.

Jul 14: Olympus C-360 - Photography Blog Review

Photography Blog has a good review of the Olympus Camedia C-310Zoom (also known as the Olympus Camedia D-540 Zoom). Here is a snippet of what Mark writes:

'The Olympus C-310Zoom produced a set of sample images that had strong colours, both in bright, sunny conditions and on overcast English summer days. Unfortunately you can't set the ISO speed yourself, although the camera almost always tries to set a slow speed so that noise levels are low. This comes at the expense of aperture, which is usually set to wide-open so that shutter-speeds are fast enough to keep the subject sharp. I was unable to force the camera to use ISO 150 and above, so my only comment on noise is that it is acceptable between ISO 50 and 105 (as it should be really), although at ISO 144 noise is quite visible in the shadow areas. '

See more more reviews of the Olympus C-310.

Jul 14: Canon EOS 1D Mark II - Photographic Magazine Review

Photographic reviews the Canon EOS 1D Mark II and writes:

'Image quality was, as you'd expect from an 8.2-megapixel pro camera, terrific. We did most of our shooting at the L (8.2-megapixel JPEG) image size, at the default compression setting of 8, as a good balance between ultimate quality and number of shots—you get about 4X as many L images per card as RAW images, and viewed at 100% on-screen, it's hard to see a difference in image quality—the L images are excellent. (The SanDisk 1 GB Extreme CompactFlash card and 256 MB Extreme SD card provided with our test camera are ideal companions for the Mark II—the hardy cards can operate in temperatures from –25° to 85° C and feature a write time of 9 MB/second, easily able to handle the camera's 5.0 MB/second write rate.) The Mark II's noise-reduction technology seems to work very well—image quality at ISO 800 and even 1600 was surprisingly good.'

Get more reviews of the Canon EOS Mark II

Jul 14: Leica Digilux 2 - Photographic Review

Photographic reviews the Leica Digilux 2 and writes:

'the Leica Digilux 2 isn't designed for bargain hunters. But if you are looking for a full-featured 5-megapixel digicam with a great lens and a meticulously crafted magnesium body, this one deserves very serious consideration.'

Read more reviews of the Leica Digilux 2.

Jul 14: Canon S1 IS firmware update

Canon have released a firmware update for the Canon S1 IS digital camera. DP Review has the details and a link to download it.

Canon has today posted new firmware for the PowerShot S1 IS. Version 1.0.1.0 fixes two issues: (1) Specification changes for the way images are displayed in Continuous AF Mode, (2) Improvements for the overexposure phenomenon that occurred during daytime synchronized shooting. Installation of the new firmware can be carried out by the user, it's simply a case of placing the firmware update file on a CF card and restarting the camera.' Source - Canon S1 IS firmware update

Jul 14: Google Buys Picasa

Google Inc. Press Release
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 13, 2004--Google Inc. today announced it acquired Picasa, Inc., a Pasadena, Calif.-based digital photo management company. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Picasa enables users to easily manage and share digital photographs, and its technologies complement Google's ongoing mission to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful," said Jonathan Rosenberg, vice president, Product Management. "Picasa is an innovator in the field of digital photography, and we're excited that the Picasa team is joining Google."

Picasa was founded in October 2001. In May 2004, Picasa announced a technology partnership with Google's Blogger service to make publishing digital photos with Blogger faster and easier. Further product integration plans have not been announced. Picasa users will not experience any interruption in service.

About Google Inc.
Google is a global technology leader focused on improving the way people connect with information. Google's innovations in web search and advertising have made its website a top Internet destination and its brand one of the most recognized in the world. Google maintains the world's largest online index of websites and other content, and Google makes this information freely available to anyone with an Internet connection. Google's automated search technology helps people obtain nearly instant access to relevant information from its vast online index.

Jul 14: Epson Stylus C4600

Press Release
EPSON SOAKS THE COMPETITION WITH NEW DURABRITE SCAN-PRINT-COPY DEVICE – EPSON STYLUS CX4600

Newest Epson All-in-One Features Water/Fade/Smudge-Resistant DURABrite Inks,

Color Restoration, Standalone/One-Touch Color Copying and Scanning, Individual Ink Cartridges and Multiple Memory Card Inputs

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- July 13, 2004 -- Epson has successfully splashed down on the scan-print-copy market again with a new value-focused product – the EPSON Stylus CX4600. This all-in-one features Epson's exclusive water/fade/smudge-resistant DURABrite inks and offers an optimum balance of image quality and speed to satisfy the imaging needs of busy households, personal offices and today's ever-growing number of beginning to intermediate-level digital photographers.

With a suggested retail price of $149 ($129 following a $20 rebate), the Stylus CX4600 triples as a scanner, photo printer, and black and color copier, in a new space-saving design that is only 6.7 inches tall and 13.5 inches wide. When used as a stand-alone product (PC-free), it can produce up to 13 black/color copies per minute (cpm)*, print up to 15 pages per minute (ppm)* in black and can scan images up to 600 x 1200 dpi with 48-bit color depth. Other advanced features include Epson’s photo restoration technology, quiet operation and an easy-to-navigate controlpanel. It also incorporates Epson's renowned DURABrite inks and a variety of input slots for today's most popular memory cards.

“We’ve made a lot of breakthroughs in both printing and scanning technology over the years, which we’ve been able to enhance and migrate into an outstanding assortment of multifunction devices such as this,” said Andreas Goehring, group product manager, Epson. “Furthermore, this product combines a balance of performance, special features and price that give our customers the kind of all-in-one value no other manufacturer can deliver.”

DURABrite Inks – Water, Smudge and Light Resistance

The EPSON Stylus CX4600 uses DURABrite inks to create natural, vibrant-looking colors that are also water/fade/smudge-resistant. Because DURABrite inks are pigment-based, even plain paper output can be submerged in water without the ink coming off the page, unlike dye-based inks, which typically run and smudge.

These inks are designed to give creators of photographs, fliers, menus, signs, postcards and any other printed output the ability to produce documents and images that will withstand damage caused by moisture-based threats such as rain, spills, humidity or people with wet hands. Bleed-through is also reduced since DURABrite inks rest on the surface of the paper, which is ideal for applications that require double-sided printing. The Stylus CX4600 also produces frame-ready, borderless photographs in several popular sizes and up to 5,760 x 1,440 optimized dpi and ultrafine three-picoliter ink droplets for sharp, vivid images.

Restoring Faded Color Photos and Scanning
The Stylus CX4600 includes EPSON Easy Photo Fix™ software – a feature that gives users an easy solution for restoring color to old photographs with the touch of a button. It also delivers fully automated scanning plus two additional scanning modes for users who want more advanced custom control. Furthermore, EPSON Smart Panel™ software enables users to quickly scan photos, text or graphics with extreme detail to the Internet, e-mail or a fax software program.

Memory Card Slots
The EPSON Stylus CX4600’s input slots can not only be used to transfer data from a memory card to a PC, but also enable PC-free printing of index sheets or high quality photos directly from the media card. Memory cards supported include CompactFlash™ I and II, Sony Memory Stick®, Memory Stick Pro, MemoryStick Duo, Sony MagicGate SD, Smart Media™, Secure Digital, MultiMediaCard, IBM Microdrive™ and xD-Picture Card.

Individual Ink Cartridges = Lower Cost of Ownership
The EPSON Stylus CX4600 includes four separate “snap-in/snap-out” ink cartridges (cyan, magenta, yellow and black) to maximize overall ink yield as cartridges are replaced over time. Ink level information is accurately displayed on the computer screen, while self-sealing valves preserve the inks up to six months once removed from the printer. Therefore, partially depleted cartridges can be reinserted for later use.

The EPSON Stylus CX4600 works with both Windows and Macintosh platforms and is capable of large-quantity printing when needed. The printer’s paper input tray holds up to 100 sheets of plain paper on the EPSON Stylus CX4600. This product also supports a variety of Epson specialty media including Epson DURABrite Ink Glossy Photo Paper, Premium Bright White Paper, Glossy Photo Paper and Matte Paper Heavyweight. For added value, a 20-sheet sample pack of Epson photo paper is included in the box along with Epson Photo Series software and easy access to Epson’s exclusive photo craft and photo sharing Web site.

Warranty and Support
The EPSON Stylus CX4600 is currently shipping to computer superstores and specialty retail stores nationwide and can also be purchased through mail order, PC manufacturers, the Internet and Epson’s own site at www.epsonstore.com. These products also carry a one-year Epson Exchange Limited Warranty, enabling customers to receive a replacement product if a problem cannot be corrected by telephone technical support. It is also supported by the EPSON ConnectionSM,a customer support and technical assistance line. For more information on Epson and its products, call 1-800-GO-EPSON (1-800-463-7766) or visit our Web site at www.epson.com.

About Epson
Epson offers an extensive array of award-winning image capture and image output products for the consumer, business, photography and graphic arts markets. The company is also a leading supplier of value-added point-of-sale (POS) printers and transactions terminals. Founded in 1975, Epson America Inc. is the U.S. affiliate of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, a global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality technology products that meet customer demands for increased functionality, compactness, systems integration and energy efficiency. Epson America Inc. is headquartered in Long Beach, Calif.

*Copies per minute and pages per minute based on black text memo in Draft Mode on plain paper. Additional processing time will vary based on system configuration, software application and page complexity.

Jul 13: DVD Players - the New Digital Camera Accessory

The latest digital camera accessory that all good digital photographers will need is the DVD player - if this article from 'The Australian' is to be believed...

'Consumer electronics manufacturers are integrating data card slots and software into a new generation of televisions and DVD players to give users more power over their still photos.

"Previously, viewing your digital photos could be a bit of a chore," Philips senior product manager for DVD and audio Scott Housley says.

"Your options were to either spend lots of time and money printing out the photos, or crowd around your PC or laptop to show them to friends."

Samsung product manager for audio visual, Frank Malcaus says many digital camera users do not realise there are better ways of viewing an image than printing it.' Read More at DVD now a camera accessory

Jul 13: Qualcomm Sampling Multimedia Chipset

'Qualcomm Inc. (Nasdaq:QCOM - news), a wireless technology company, on Monday said it had begun sample production of cell-phone chips that incorporate both phone functions and a range of advanced multimedia capabilities like high-resolution photography and video capture.

San Diego-based Qualcomm, whose CDMA (news - web sites) standard for wireless networks dominates in the United States and broad swaths of Asia and Latin America, said its MSM6150 and MSM6550 chips were designed for low-power wireless multimedia.

The chips support digital cameras up to 4 megapixels, video recording at 15 frames per second and playback at 30 frames per second, MP3-quality audio and two-way video telephony.

They also support the Bluetooth short-range networking standard and offer what Qualcomm said was a performance boost of as much as 50 percent over its past multimedia products.

The company has singled out advanced phones with color screens, consumer-grade cameras and other multimedia functions as its major growth driver in the coming years. Of late, it has signed a number of deals to license advanced audio and graphics technology for its chips.' Source - Qualcomm Sampling Multimedia Chipset

Jul 13: Canon CanoScan 3000 ex Scanner

The CanoScan 3000 ex scanner features a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi and an enhanced resolution of 9600 dpi. Book and magazine scanning is made easy with Canon's exclusive Z-Lid Expansion Top, which automatically lifts approximately one inch vertically and lays flat on the item being scanned. Three easy-to-use buttons automate common scanning tasks such as copying, scanning or e-mailing of images or documents. Quality is maintained by incorporating a 48-bit color processor that is capable of generating more than 281 trillion possible colors. The CanoScan 3000 ex scanner incorporates a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed(1) scanning bus to allow for fast scanning.

PC MAG reviews the CanoScan 3000 and writes - 'The 3000ex is easy to use, with an assortment of one-touch buttons on the front panel and a driver with both a simple interface for quick scanning and an advanced interface for more control. It even has an automated feature for scanning multiple photos in a single scan and sending them to your photo editor with each photo in its own window. If you're looking for basic scanning at a minimum price, the Canon CanoScan 3000ex should nicely fill the bill.'

For More information on the Canon CanoScan 3000 Read the following press release announcing this scanner and two others in the CanoScan range.

Canon USA Press Release 12/07/04
Canon's Three New Scanners Deliver Quality, Ease-of-Use and Simplicity at Affordable Prices

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 12, 2004--The need for creating digital libraries of everything from household bills and documents to old family photographs has drawn new customers to digital scanning. Canon's new CanoScan(R) 3000 ex, CanoScan 8400F and CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanners provide consumers with quality, ease-of-use and simplicity at entry-level price points.

"Canon's leadership in the digital imaging category has grown as a result of continued research of existing and potential customers," 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. (NYSE:CAJ). "With features including the Z-Lid(TM) Expansion Top, simple push-button design and automatic multiple-scan driver mode, Canon delivers the scanning solutions consumers are demanding."

CanoScan 3000 ex Color Image Scanner
The CanoScan 3000 ex scanner features a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi and an enhanced resolution of 9600 dpi. Book and magazine scanning is made easy with Canon's exclusive Z-Lid Expansion Top, which automatically lifts approximately one inch vertically and lays flat on the item being scanned. Three easy-to-use buttons automate common scanning tasks such as copying, scanning or e-mailing of images or documents. Quality is maintained by incorporating a 48-bit color processor that is capable of generating more than 281 trillion possible colors. The CanoScan 3000 ex scanner incorporates a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed(1) scanning bus to allow for fast scanning.

CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanner
Replacing the extremely popular CanoScan LiDE 30 scanner, the CanoScan LiDE 35 scanner boosts performance and functionality by upgrading the connection to USB 2.0 Hi-Speed(1), adds a fourth button for scanning documents directly to a PDF file and enhances the design by incorporating a color slimming profile with a Cloud Bluish Silver color aluminum lid over a Manhattan Gray body color.

The CanoScan LiDE 35 scanner will be the entry level in Canon's slim-line family of LiDE (LED InDirect Exposure -- LiDE) scanners. The LiDE scanners use a small, low powered LED light source and the integration of lens elements directly on the scanning sensor to substantially reduce the number and size of individual components needed to produce a scanner. This results in a slim design that is lightweight and feature-rich for the consumer.

The LiDE 35 scanner features a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi and an enhanced resolution of 9600 dpi. Single-pass scanning technology and 48-bit color depth provide both fast and detailed scans with smooth gradation and more than 281 trillion possible colors.

Additional advantages of the LiDE 35 model include one cable for USB 2.0 Hi-Speed connection and power, the Z-Lid Expansion Top, four one-touch buttons and the Multi-Scan Mode. Consumers will deal with less clutter when using one USB cable included with the scanner to both power the unit and connect it to the computer. USB 2.0 Hi-Speed will deliver preview scans in approximately 9 seconds by using fast transfer rates of up to 480 Mbps. The super slim design, just over one-and-a-half inches high and the included scanner stand allows users to scan and store the scanner on its side to save space.

Canon's four-button design on the LiDE 35 scanner - copy, scan, file and e-mail - helps users expedite common scanning tasks with single-touch simplicity. In addition to the default settings from Canon, each button can be customized to perform the tasks most often used by the consumer. The Multi-Scan mode helps save time by scanning multiple images at one time, saving each image to its own file for archiving or editing. The unit also scans multi-page documents to a single PDF file.

The LiDE 35 scanner also features dust, fading and grain correction for printed photos. This technology can automatically remove much of the dust from scans of printed photos, the fading correction feature examines originals with faded color and intelligently rebuilds color quality while the grain correction works to smooth and eliminate undesirable grain from scanned images.

CanoScan 8400F Color Image Scanner
Replacing the CanoScan 8000F scanner, the feature rich CanoScan 8400F scanner is designed for production level scanning with 3200 x 6400 dpi resolution. The included film adapter handles 35mm to medium format sized film and the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface allows for fast transfer from scanner to computer.

Using Canon's multi-scan mode, the CanoScan 8400F scanner can automatically scan up to twelve 35mm negative frames and import each frame into an individual file. With a maximum hardware resolution of 3200 x 6400 dpi and 48-bit color depth, the CanoScan 8400F scanner produces the quality needed from both film and photograph scans.

New Film Automatic Retouching and Enhancement (FARE level 3) found in the CanoScan 8400F scanner is the latest generation of Canon's built-in hardware automatic retouching technology. FARE level 3 technology automatically performs an infrared scan that examines the films surface for dust and scratches and removes the unwanted imperfections from the final scan. Additional features include grain and fading correction for added productivity and also Backlight correction - a new function that lets users easily adjust the exposure of the scanned image.

Canon's four-button design on the CanoScan 8400F scanner - copy, scan, pdf and e-mail - helps users expedite common scanning tasks with single-touch simplicity. The pdf button converts documents directly into PDF (Portable Document Format) files for easy sharing with others over the internet or e-mail. In addition to the default settings from Canon, each button can be customized to perform the tasks most often used by the consumer. The unit also scans multi-page documents to a single PDF file.

Canon helps manage scanning tasks by including several software titles(2) on the setup CD-Rom. For the CanoScan 3000 ex ScanGear(R) CS(3), CanoScan Toolbox, ArcSoft(R) PhotoStudio(R), ArcSoft(R) PhotoBase and ScanSoft(R) OmniPage(R) SE OCR are included. The CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F include ScanGear(R) CS (Windows/Mac(4)), CanoScan Toolbox (Windows/Mac), ArcSoft(R) PhotoStudio(R), and ScanSoft(R) OmniPage(R) SE OCR (Windows/Mac). Additionally, Adobe(R) Photoshop(R) Elements 2.0 is bundled with the CanoScan 8400F.

All three scanners are compatible with Windows XP, 2000, ME or 98(5) operating systems. The CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F scanners are also compatible with Mac OS X (10.1.3 to 10.3.x) operating systems. A one-year limited warranty with InstantExchange(6) is included with an option to purchase an extended limited warranty (good for up to three years) from Canon for $50.00.(7)

Available in July, the CanoScan 3000 ex, CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F scanners carry suggested list prices of $49.99, $79.99 and $149.99,(8) respectively.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America, and is ranked #39 on the Business Week list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent-holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2002, with global revenues of $24.5 billion. Canon U.S.A. employs more than 10,000 people at over 30 locations. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.

Specifications subject to change without notice.
(1) USB 2.0 Hi-Speed not compatible with Windows 98.

(2) System requirements vary by application.

(3) Windows only

(4) Mac OSX Native Only

(5) Systems with Pentium(R) III or higher Celeron(R) (566 MHz or higher), AMD:Athlon(TM), Athlon MP, Athlon XP or Duron are recommended.

(6) InstantExchange warranty program is subject to certain terms and conditions. See the warranty card for details.

(7) Price subject to change at any time.

(8) Prices are MSRP at time materials were created. Prices subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Jul 13: CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanner

PC Mag reviews the CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanner and writes - 'Photo scan quality was just short of excellent. The only thing that holds the overall photo rating to very good is that the tool for removing scratches and dust specks didn't have any noticeable effect on our test image. But the tool for restoring faded colors works well and doesn't slow down the scanner. Prescans varied from 10 to 34 seconds, depending on whether the scanning element needed to warm up first. Similarly, scans for 4-by-6 and 5-by-7 originals varied from 13 to 29 seconds total for scanning to the bundled PhotoStudio and saving the file to disk. That makes the LiDE 35 a bit faster than the Microtek i6100, which is the current Editors' Choice in this category.'

Excerpt from Canon's Press Release - full press release below
CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanner
Replacing the extremely popular CanoScan LiDE 30 scanner, the CanoScan LiDE 35 scanner boosts performance and functionality by upgrading the connection to USB 2.0 Hi-Speed(1), adds a fourth button for scanning documents directly to a PDF file and enhances the design by incorporating a color slimming profile with a Cloud Bluish Silver color aluminum lid over a Manhattan Gray body color.

The CanoScan LiDE 35 scanner will be the entry level in Canon's slim-line family of LiDE (LED InDirect Exposure -- LiDE) scanners. The LiDE scanners use a small, low powered LED light source and the integration of lens elements directly on the scanning sensor to substantially reduce the number and size of individual components needed to produce a scanner. This results in a slim design that is lightweight and feature-rich for the consumer.

The LiDE 35 scanner features a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi and an enhanced resolution of 9600 dpi. Single-pass scanning technology and 48-bit color depth provide both fast and detailed scans with smooth gradation and more than 281 trillion possible colors.

Additional advantages of the LiDE 35 model include one cable for USB 2.0 Hi-Speed connection and power, the Z-Lid Expansion Top, four one-touch buttons and the Multi-Scan Mode. Consumers will deal with less clutter when using one USB cable included with the scanner to both power the unit and connect it to the computer. USB 2.0 Hi-Speed will deliver preview scans in approximately 9 seconds by using fast transfer rates of up to 480 Mbps. The super slim design, just over one-and-a-half inches high and the included scanner stand allows users to scan and store the scanner on its side to save space.

Canon's four-button design on the LiDE 35 scanner - copy, scan, file and e-mail - helps users expedite common scanning tasks with single-touch simplicity. In addition to the default settings from Canon, each button can be customized to perform the tasks most often used by the consumer. The Multi-Scan mode helps save time by scanning multiple images at one time, saving each image to its own file for archiving or editing. The unit also scans multi-page documents to a single PDF file.

The LiDE 35 scanner also features dust, fading and grain correction for printed photos. This technology can automatically remove much of the dust from scans of printed photos, the fading correction feature examines originals with faded color and intelligently rebuilds color quality while the grain correction works to smooth and eliminate undesirable grain from scanned images.

For more information on the CanoScan Range see the full press release from Canon below announcing this scanner and others in the CanoScan Range.

Bios Magazine reviews the CanoScan LiDE 35 and writes - 'Canon's CanoScan LiDE 35 is an ultra slim and relatively stylish flatbed A4 scanner. However, the low cost of Canon's star entry-level scanner is given away by its flimsy two-tone plastic enclosure and snap-on stand, but for just £49.99 (ex. VAT) it represents outstanding value for performing basic scanning chores. A low price means compromises in scan quality though and the scanner lacks support for a transparency module, film adapter, or even an automatic document feeder, so photographers and high-throughput users should look at Canon's F series or Epson's Perfection line.'

Canon USA Press Release 12/07/04
Canon's Three New Scanners Deliver Quality, Ease-of-Use and Simplicity at Affordable Prices

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 12, 2004--The need for creating digital libraries of everything from household bills and documents to old family photographs has drawn new customers to digital scanning. Canon's new CanoScan(R) 3000 ex, CanoScan 8400F and CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanners provide consumers with quality, ease-of-use and simplicity at entry-level price points.

"Canon's leadership in the digital imaging category has grown as a result of continued research of existing and potential customers," 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. (NYSE:CAJ). "With features including the Z-Lid(TM) Expansion Top, simple push-button design and automatic multiple-scan driver mode, Canon delivers the scanning solutions consumers are demanding."

CanoScan 3000 ex Color Image Scanner
The CanoScan 3000 ex scanner features a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi and an enhanced resolution of 9600 dpi. Book and magazine scanning is made easy with Canon's exclusive Z-Lid Expansion Top, which automatically lifts approximately one inch vertically and lays flat on the item being scanned. Three easy-to-use buttons automate common scanning tasks such as copying, scanning or e-mailing of images or documents. Quality is maintained by incorporating a 48-bit color processor that is capable of generating more than 281 trillion possible colors. The CanoScan 3000 ex scanner incorporates a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed(1) scanning bus to allow for fast scanning.

CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanner
Replacing the extremely popular CanoScan LiDE 30 scanner, the CanoScan LiDE 35 scanner boosts performance and functionality by upgrading the connection to USB 2.0 Hi-Speed(1), adds a fourth button for scanning documents directly to a PDF file and enhances the design by incorporating a color slimming profile with a Cloud Bluish Silver color aluminum lid over a Manhattan Gray body color.

The CanoScan LiDE 35 scanner will be the entry level in Canon's slim-line family of LiDE (LED InDirect Exposure -- LiDE) scanners. The LiDE scanners use a small, low powered LED light source and the integration of lens elements directly on the scanning sensor to substantially reduce the number and size of individual components needed to produce a scanner. This results in a slim design that is lightweight and feature-rich for the consumer.

The LiDE 35 scanner features a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi and an enhanced resolution of 9600 dpi. Single-pass scanning technology and 48-bit color depth provide both fast and detailed scans with smooth gradation and more than 281 trillion possible colors.

Additional advantages of the LiDE 35 model include one cable for USB 2.0 Hi-Speed connection and power, the Z-Lid Expansion Top, four one-touch buttons and the Multi-Scan Mode. Consumers will deal with less clutter when using one USB cable included with the scanner to both power the unit and connect it to the computer. USB 2.0 Hi-Speed will deliver preview scans in approximately 9 seconds by using fast transfer rates of up to 480 Mbps. The super slim design, just over one-and-a-half inches high and the included scanner stand allows users to scan and store the scanner on its side to save space.

Canon's four-button design on the LiDE 35 scanner - copy, scan, file and e-mail - helps users expedite common scanning tasks with single-touch simplicity. In addition to the default settings from Canon, each button can be customized to perform the tasks most often used by the consumer. The Multi-Scan mode helps save time by scanning multiple images at one time, saving each image to its own file for archiving or editing. The unit also scans multi-page documents to a single PDF file.

The LiDE 35 scanner also features dust, fading and grain correction for printed photos. This technology can automatically remove much of the dust from scans of printed photos, the fading correction feature examines originals with faded color and intelligently rebuilds color quality while the grain correction works to smooth and eliminate undesirable grain from scanned images.

CanoScan 8400F Color Image Scanner
Replacing the CanoScan 8000F scanner, the feature rich CanoScan 8400F scanner is designed for production level scanning with 3200 x 6400 dpi resolution. The included film adapter handles 35mm to medium format sized film and the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface allows for fast transfer from scanner to computer.

Using Canon's multi-scan mode, the CanoScan 8400F scanner can automatically scan up to twelve 35mm negative frames and import each frame into an individual file. With a maximum hardware resolution of 3200 x 6400 dpi and 48-bit color depth, the CanoScan 8400F scanner produces the quality needed from both film and photograph scans.

New Film Automatic Retouching and Enhancement (FARE level 3) found in the CanoScan 8400F scanner is the latest generation of Canon's built-in hardware automatic retouching technology. FARE level 3 technology automatically performs an infrared scan that examines the films surface for dust and scratches and removes the unwanted imperfections from the final scan. Additional features include grain and fading correction for added productivity and also Backlight correction - a new function that lets users easily adjust the exposure of the scanned image.

Canon's four-button design on the CanoScan 8400F scanner - copy, scan, pdf and e-mail - helps users expedite common scanning tasks with single-touch simplicity. The pdf button converts documents directly into PDF (Portable Document Format) files for easy sharing with others over the internet or e-mail. In addition to the default settings from Canon, each button can be customized to perform the tasks most often used by the consumer. The unit also scans multi-page documents to a single PDF file.

Canon helps manage scanning tasks by including several software titles(2) on the setup CD-Rom. For the CanoScan 3000 ex ScanGear(R) CS(3), CanoScan Toolbox, ArcSoft(R) PhotoStudio(R), ArcSoft(R) PhotoBase and ScanSoft(R) OmniPage(R) SE OCR are included. The CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F include ScanGear(R) CS (Windows/Mac(4)), CanoScan Toolbox (Windows/Mac), ArcSoft(R) PhotoStudio(R), and ScanSoft(R) OmniPage(R) SE OCR (Windows/Mac). Additionally, Adobe(R) Photoshop(R) Elements 2.0 is bundled with the CanoScan 8400F.

All three scanners are compatible with Windows XP, 2000, ME or 98(5) operating systems. The CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F scanners are also compatible with Mac OS X (10.1.3 to 10.3.x) operating systems. A one-year limited warranty with InstantExchange(6) is included with an option to purchase an extended limited warranty (good for up to three years) from Canon for $50.00.(7)

Available in July, the CanoScan 3000 ex, CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F scanners carry suggested list prices of $49.99, $79.99 and $149.99,(8) respectively.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America, and is ranked #39 on the Business Week list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent-holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2002, with global revenues of $24.5 billion. Canon U.S.A. employs more than 10,000 people at over 30 locations. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.

Specifications subject to change without notice.
(1) USB 2.0 Hi-Speed not compatible with Windows 98.

(2) System requirements vary by application.

(3) Windows only

(4) Mac OSX Native Only

(5) Systems with Pentium(R) III or higher Celeron(R) (566 MHz or higher), AMD:Athlon(TM), Athlon MP, Athlon XP or Duron are recommended.

(6) InstantExchange warranty program is subject to certain terms and conditions. See the warranty card for details.

(7) Price subject to change at any time.

(8) Prices are MSRP at time materials were created. Prices subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Jul 13: CanoScan 8400F Color Image Scanner

PC Mag reviews the Canon Canoscan 8400F and writes - 'Lots of scanners claim 48-bit color depth, but the 8400F delivers, with an ability to see detail from white to black that's much greater than with most scanners. The difference is most apparent in slides. For example, in one slide we use with a dark tree line against a bright sky with clouds, the 8400F shows more detail in both the trees and clouds than the Microtek 6100 Pro—even though the 6100 Pro's scans offer better quality than most flatbed scanners. We also saw slightly more detail in scans of some photos with the Canon unit.'

The Following is an excerpt from a Press Release from Canon announcing the CanoScan 8400F Color Image Scanner. The Full press release is below.

UK/European Readers buy the Canon Canoscan 8000F

CanoScan 8400F Color Image Scanner
Replacing the CanoScan 8000F scanner, the feature rich CanoScan 8400F scanner is designed for production level scanning with 3200 x 6400 dpi resolution. The included film adapter handles 35mm to medium format sized film and the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface allows for fast transfer from scanner to computer.

Using Canon's multi-scan mode, the CanoScan 8400F scanner can automatically scan up to twelve 35mm negative frames and import each frame into an individual file. With a maximum hardware resolution of 3200 x 6400 dpi and 48-bit color depth, the CanoScan 8400F scanner produces the quality needed from both film and photograph scans.

New Film Automatic Retouching and Enhancement (FARE level 3) found in the CanoScan 8400F scanner is the latest generation of Canon's built-in hardware automatic retouching technology. FARE level 3 technology automatically performs an infrared scan that examines the films surface for dust and scratches and removes the unwanted imperfections from the final scan. Additional features include grain and fading correction for added productivity and also Backlight correction - a new function that lets users easily adjust the exposure of the scanned image.

Canon's four-button design on the CanoScan 8400F scanner - copy, scan, pdf and e-mail - helps users expedite common scanning tasks with single-touch simplicity. The pdf button converts documents directly into PDF (Portable Document Format) files for easy sharing with others over the internet or e-mail. In addition to the default settings from Canon, each button can be customized to perform the tasks most often used by the consumer. The unit also scans multi-page documents to a single PDF file.

For more information on the CanoScan Range see the full press release from Canon below announcing this scanner and others in the CanoScan Range

Canon USA Press Release 12/07/04
Canon's Three New Scanners Deliver Quality, Ease-of-Use and Simplicity at Affordable Prices

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 12, 2004--The need for creating digital libraries of everything from household bills and documents to old family photographs has drawn new customers to digital scanning. Canon's new CanoScan(R) 3000 ex, CanoScan 8400F and CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanners provide consumers with quality, ease-of-use and simplicity at entry-level price points.

"Canon's leadership in the digital imaging category has grown as a result of continued research of existing and potential customers," 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. (NYSE:CAJ). "With features including the Z-Lid(TM) Expansion Top, simple push-button design and automatic multiple-scan driver mode, Canon delivers the scanning solutions consumers are demanding."

CanoScan 3000 ex Color Image Scanner
The CanoScan 3000 ex scanner features a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi and an enhanced resolution of 9600 dpi. Book and magazine scanning is made easy with Canon's exclusive Z-Lid Expansion Top, which automatically lifts approximately one inch vertically and lays flat on the item being scanned. Three easy-to-use buttons automate common scanning tasks such as copying, scanning or e-mailing of images or documents. Quality is maintained by incorporating a 48-bit color processor that is capable of generating more than 281 trillion possible colors. The CanoScan 3000 ex scanner incorporates a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed(1) scanning bus to allow for fast scanning.

CanoScan LiDE 35 Color Image Scanner
Replacing the extremely popular CanoScan LiDE 30 scanner, the CanoScan LiDE 35 scanner boosts performance and functionality by upgrading the connection to USB 2.0 Hi-Speed(1), adds a fourth button for scanning documents directly to a PDF file and enhances the design by incorporating a color slimming profile with a Cloud Bluish Silver color aluminum lid over a Manhattan Gray body color.

The CanoScan LiDE 35 scanner will be the entry level in Canon's slim-line family of LiDE (LED InDirect Exposure -- LiDE) scanners. The LiDE scanners use a small, low powered LED light source and the integration of lens elements directly on the scanning sensor to substantially reduce the number and size of individual components needed to produce a scanner. This results in a slim design that is lightweight and feature-rich for the consumer.

The LiDE 35 scanner features a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 2400 dpi and an enhanced resolution of 9600 dpi. Single-pass scanning technology and 48-bit color depth provide both fast and detailed scans with smooth gradation and more than 281 trillion possible colors.

Additional advantages of the LiDE 35 model include one cable for USB 2.0 Hi-Speed connection and power, the Z-Lid Expansion Top, four one-touch buttons and the Multi-Scan Mode. Consumers will deal with less clutter when using one USB cable included with the scanner to both power the unit and connect it to the computer. USB 2.0 Hi-Speed will deliver preview scans in approximately 9 seconds by using fast transfer rates of up to 480 Mbps. The super slim design, just over one-and-a-half inches high and the included scanner stand allows users to scan and store the scanner on its side to save space.

Canon's four-button design on the LiDE 35 scanner - copy, scan, file and e-mail - helps users expedite common scanning tasks with single-touch simplicity. In addition to the default settings from Canon, each button can be customized to perform the tasks most often used by the consumer. The Multi-Scan mode helps save time by scanning multiple images at one time, saving each image to its own file for archiving or editing. The unit also scans multi-page documents to a single PDF file.

The LiDE 35 scanner also features dust, fading and grain correction for printed photos. This technology can automatically remove much of the dust from scans of printed photos, the fading correction feature examines originals with faded color and intelligently rebuilds color quality while the grain correction works to smooth and eliminate undesirable grain from scanned images.

CanoScan 8400F Color Image Scanner
Replacing the CanoScan 8000F scanner, the feature rich CanoScan 8400F scanner is designed for production level scanning with 3200 x 6400 dpi resolution. The included film adapter handles 35mm to medium format sized film and the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface allows for fast transfer from scanner to computer.

Using Canon's multi-scan mode, the CanoScan 8400F scanner can automatically scan up to twelve 35mm negative frames and import each frame into an individual file. With a maximum hardware resolution of 3200 x 6400 dpi and 48-bit color depth, the CanoScan 8400F scanner produces the quality needed from both film and photograph scans.

New Film Automatic Retouching and Enhancement (FARE level 3) found in the CanoScan 8400F scanner is the latest generation of Canon's built-in hardware automatic retouching technology. FARE level 3 technology automatically performs an infrared scan that examines the films surface for dust and scratches and removes the unwanted imperfections from the final scan. Additional features include grain and fading correction for added productivity and also Backlight correction - a new function that lets users easily adjust the exposure of the scanned image.

Canon's four-button design on the CanoScan 8400F scanner - copy, scan, pdf and e-mail - helps users expedite common scanning tasks with single-touch simplicity. The pdf button converts documents directly into PDF (Portable Document Format) files for easy sharing with others over the internet or e-mail. In addition to the default settings from Canon, each button can be customized to perform the tasks most often used by the consumer. The unit also scans multi-page documents to a single PDF file.

Canon helps manage scanning tasks by including several software titles(2) on the setup CD-Rom. For the CanoScan 3000 ex ScanGear(R) CS(3), CanoScan Toolbox, ArcSoft(R) PhotoStudio(R), ArcSoft(R) PhotoBase and ScanSoft(R) OmniPage(R) SE OCR are included. The CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F include ScanGear(R) CS (Windows/Mac(4)), CanoScan Toolbox (Windows/Mac), ArcSoft(R) PhotoStudio(R), and ScanSoft(R) OmniPage(R) SE OCR (Windows/Mac). Additionally, Adobe(R) Photoshop(R) Elements 2.0 is bundled with the CanoScan 8400F.

All three scanners are compatible with Windows XP, 2000, ME or 98(5) operating systems. The CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F scanners are also compatible with Mac OS X (10.1.3 to 10.3.x) operating systems. A one-year limited warranty with InstantExchange(6) is included with an option to purchase an extended limited warranty (good for up to three years) from Canon for $50.00.(7)

Available in July, the CanoScan 3000 ex, CanoScan LiDE 35 and CanoScan 8400F scanners carry suggested list prices of $49.99, $79.99 and $149.99,(8) respectively.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America, and is ranked #39 on the Business Week list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent-holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2002, with global revenues of $24.5 billion. Canon U.S.A. employs more than 10,000 people at over 30 locations. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.

Specifications subject to change without notice.
(1) USB 2.0 Hi-Speed not compatible with Windows 98.

(2) System requirements vary by application.

(3) Windows only

(4) Mac OSX Native Only

(5) Systems with Pentium(R) III or higher Celeron(R) (566 MHz or higher), AMD:Athlon(TM), Athlon MP, Athlon XP or Duron are recommended.

(6) InstantExchange warranty program is subject to certain terms and conditions. See the warranty card for details.

(7) Price subject to change at any time.

(8) Prices are MSRP at time materials were created. Prices subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Jul 12: Epson PhotoPC L-410

Press Release - Jul 12, 2004 09:00
Epson Introduces the EPSON PhotoPC L-410 -- A Four Megapixel Digital Camera That Makes Taking and Printing Photos Fun and Easy
LONG BEACH, Calif. --(Business Wire)-- July 12, 2004 New Compact Digital Camera Features High-Speed Continuous Shooting in Addition to Unique PRINT Image Framer(R) Feature

Epson America, Inc. is once again focusing its efforts on capturing important memories with the introduction of the EPSON PhotoPC(R) L-410. The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 is a compact, four megapixel digital camera that incorporates high-speed continuous shooting, records video clips and offers a new creative feature called PRINT Image Framer, which adds fun frames to any photo with a touch of a button.

The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 is ideal for anyone that wants to capture important memories easily and quickly, without having to compromise quality. In addition to its 4.0 megapixel CCD sensor, this compact and sleek camera includes a 3x optical zoom and a 3x digital zoom, a 1.5 inch high-quality LCD screen and PRINT Image Matching(R) II technology for simply producing the best possible prints on PRINT Image Matching-enabled photo printers.

"Capturing and preserving memories is becoming more and more important to today's digital camera customer and the EPSON PhotoPC L-410 makes it simple and fun to take photos anytime and anywhere," said Daniel Oey, senior product manager, digital cameras, Epson. "With the many Epson photo printing solutions available today, customers can confidently print these precious memories knowing that they will look amazing for years to come."

Continuous Shooting with the EPSON PhotoPC L-410

Not only can the EPSON PhotoPC L-410 capture beautiful images, but it captures them fast with a new high-speed continuous shooting mode. The camera can capture up to three photos per second, at the highest resolution, until the user's optional, high-speed memory card is full. This feature is ideal for capturing a variety of activities, including outdoor events such as soccer or baseball games. The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 is also fully automatic for fast, point-and-shoot functionality and it has a manual mode for added control.

PRINT Image Framer

The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 incorporates a new creative feature, PRINT Image Framer (P.I.F.). P.I.F. is a feature that is specifically designed to work with select Epson Stylus Photo printers and the PictureMate personal photo lab. Essentially, this new technology gives customers the ability to add a frame to any image they choose simply by pressing the P.I.F. button on the back of the camera. Frames will not affect the original image and they can be added without having to connect to a computer. It's as easy as selecting a frame design from a selection of over 100 frames and choosing a photo. Frames can even be chosen before a photo is taken.

Customers who want more creative freedom can actually design their own frames by using the included software (PRINT Image Framer Designer) and can even personalize existing frames. The newly created frames can be uploaded to the camera using the included software (PRINT Image Framer Tools). This unique feature adds a fun and more creative way for customers to express themselves through their photos.

Convenient Printing with the EPSON PhotoPC L-410

In addition to the convenience of direct printing with P.I.F., the EPSON PhotoPC L-410 can also print one or more of the photos on the memory card without ever having to connect to a computer. With the camera's compatibility with Direct Print and USB-DP to select Epson printers, printing without a computer has never been simpler. The customer can even press a print button on the back of the camera to quickly and easily select images for printing. The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 also supports PRINT Image Matching II and Exif 2.2 (Exif Print).

Storage Capacity and Batteries

The camera includes built-in 16MB of memory, which gives customers the ability to take snapshots right away, but for those customers that require more storage, the EPSON PhotoPC L-410 supports SecureDigital(TM) memory cards up to 512 MB. The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 comes with one CR-V3 battery and also accepts two AA alkaline, Ni-Cd or NiMH batteries. An optional AC adapter will also be available.

Pricing and Availability

The EPSON PhotoPC L-410 will be available in late July for an estimated street price of $399 through various camera specialty outlets, mail order, the Internet and on the Epson retail Web site (http://www.epsonstore.com). The camera carries a one-year warranty and is also supported by the EPSON Connection(SM), a customer support and technical assistance line. For more information on Epson and its products, call 1-800-GO-EPSON (1-800-463-7766) or visit the company's Web site at http://www.epson.com.

About Epson

Epson offers an extensive array of award-winning image capture and image output products for the consumer, business, photography and graphic arts markets. The company is also a leading supplier of value-added point-of-sale (POS) printers and transaction terminals for the retail market. Founded in 1975, Epson America, Inc. is the U.S. affiliate of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, a global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality technology products that meet customer demands for increased functionality, compactness, systems integration and energy efficiency. Epson America, Inc. is headquartered in Long Beach.

Note: Epson, EPSON Stylus, PRINT Image Matching and PRINT Image Framer are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation. PhotoPC is a registered trademark of Epson America, Inc. Third-party brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

Jul 12: Samsung SPH-2300 Camera Phone

Reiter's Camera Phone Report announces another brand new 3 megapixel camera phone - the Samsun SPH-2300.

It comes complete with optical zoom lens, in built flash, mini SD card slot and video capabilities.

Once again we see camera phones taking another leap forward. I remember just a year or two ago when a digital camera with these sort of specifications was getting rave reviews - one has to wonder where all of this is headed!

Jul 12: HP Photosmart 735 - Josh Waller Review

Josh Waller has reviewed the HP Photosmart 735 and writes:

'I think this camera is okay, it's got a good lens, and can take good photos, but the screen updates / general slowness and awkward controls of the camera let it down. The movie mode is fairly good, especially as it has sound. For the price it is okay, but when given the choice between this and a similar specification Fuji / Pentax / Olympus / Nikon / Canon, I would definitely go for one of the other brands. With so much competition in this spec/price range I find it hard to recommend this camera, not necessarily because this camera is bad, but simply because other cameras are better.'

Read More Reviews of this camera at our HP Photosmart 735 Review Page.

Found via Photography Blog

Jul 12: Olympus C-770 - Photoexels Review

Photoexels have a good review of the Olympus C-770.

The C-770 takes great pictures outdoors and indoors. It has a novel dual tubes pop-up flash to handle the different requirements of wide-angle and telephoto coverage, and I have my best indoors pictures so far with the C-770 using its on-camera flash.

The C-770's autofocus is able to distinguish small details and lock focus on them. It is quite fast in good lighting; however, lacking an AF assist illuminator, it will hunt in low-light to lock focus.'

Read more reviews on this camera at our Olympus C-770 Review Page.

Jul 11: Xerox Celebrate Olympic Sponsorship - Six Story Banner

We were interested to get this Press release from Xerox today announcing their Olympics Sponsorship - partly because it relates to this photography blog, but also because we've just started an Olympics Blog. Check it out today for all the latest Olympic News.

Xerox Press Release
'Team Xerox' Celebrates Olympic Sponsorship With Six-Story Banner In Athens, Greece

Mosaic combines more than 27,000 employee photos to honor the Games

ATHENS, July 09, 2004 -- In support of the 2004 Summer Olympic Games and to help bring the global spirit of "Team Xerox" to Greece, Xerox Corporation (NYSE: XRX) has created a massive six-story banner out of the individual portraits of more than 27,000 Xerox employees from more than 60 countries around the world.

Unveiled yesterday, the banner's overall image depicts the message "Welcome Home" in both English and Greek, celebrating the return of the Olympic Games to its historical birthplace. The banner covers nearly three sides of Xerox's office building in central Athens and will remain in place throughout the fall.

"The Olympic Games symbolize the teamwork and pride that unite people across the globe," said Diane McGarry, Xerox chief marketing officer. "The employee mosaic captures the message of unity that is the cornerstone of the Olympic spirit, key to our success at Xerox and core to the experience we deliver to our customers."

This is the second time that Xerox has created an employee mosaic banner to coincide with its sponsorship of the Olympic Games. The first mosaic, hung in Salt Lake City during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, consisted of 17,000 photos of Xerox employees from 59 countries.

Xerox has been an Olympic Sponsor since 1964 and a Top Olympic Partner since 1993. As part of its official sponsorship of the 2004 Summer Olympic Games, Xerox will rely on nearly 6,000 high-performing digital multifunction systems, printers and copiers to provide printed race results to press, broadcasters, athletes, sponsors and Olympic staff. In addition, Xerox will have more than 230 support engineers from 20 countries on-site to ensure all systems function flawlessly around the clock during the duration of the Games.

The 2004 Summer Olympic Games take place August 13-29, involving 10,500 athletes from a record 202 nations, 45,000 volunteers, 301 medal ceremonies and an estimated ticketed attendance of 5.3 million. The Paralympic Games run Sept. 17-28 and cover 19 sports in more than 20 venues involving 4,000 athletes.

Jul 11: Digital Camera Image Sensors Explained

Ever wondered how a digital camera image sensor works? Ben Long from Creative Pro explains all in his article Framed and Exposed: Making Sense of Camera Sensors.

'Good film photographers often have a very thorough understanding of the nature and properties of particular film chemistries -- often going so far as to make their own paper and emulsions. Though digital photographers can't sit around forging their own image sensors, they can still benefit from understanding some of the rudiments of the image sensor technology found in most digital cameras.

Many imaging problems can be avoided by understanding their cause, and often times imaging troubles are caused by fundamental issues within your camera. In this installment of "Framed and Exposed," we're going to take a high-level look at what happens inside your digital camera.' Read More

Also check out Digital Photography School for more free Digital Camera Tips on All Topics.

Jul 11: Canon PIXMA MP130 Multifunctional Printer

The Canon PIXMA MP110 Multifunctional Printer is an innovatively designed multi function device. It combines a photolab printer, scnanner and copier in one unit.

The MP110 prints at speeds up to 18ppm (mono) and 13 ppm (colour). Borderless 4800 x 1200 dpi lab-quality photo prints are available on a variety of stocks up to A4.

A 6-in-1 slot on the MP130 provides direct photo printing from every popular memory card type.

Get more information and specifications on the Canon PIXMA MP110 Multifunctional Printer from the following press release from Canon announcing its release and that of its big brother, the Canon PIXMA MP130.

Canon Press Release 09/07/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today unveils a radical new design concept for its range-opening multi-function devices, the PIXMA MP110 and PIXMA MP130. With a gleaming white finish and clean lines, the compact, integrated units represent a daring departure from the look of traditional print devices to combine scanner, copier and a photolab printer into a single unit.

- 18 ppm mono / 13 ppm colour document printer
- Photo printer - 4800 x 1200 dpi, 2 picolitre ink droplet size, FINE (Full-Photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering technology)
- Colour Copier
- Flat bed scanner - Full colour, 1200 x 2400 dpi optical, USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface
- Card Direct Printing with Photo Index sheet (MP130 only)

"We studied the success of our Digital IXUS cameras, which is based on the combination of technical mastery with purity of design," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "Although technical superiority is a critical side of the equation, people also want their products to reflect a contemporary and desirable look and feel."

With only one cable to reduce clutter, one power source, one driver installation and one investment required, the compact Multifunctionals are designed to save time, space and complication.

A 6-in-1 slot on the MP130 provides direct photo printing from every popular memory card type . The 'Tick-a-box' Photo Index Sheets simplify photo and media selection when printing straight from the memory card - no PC is required.

MP Navigator software, an entirely new utility, is supplied to help users get immediate optimum quality results with minimum fuss. Users select the required process (e.g. scan, print image from PC, then select the desired output: photo print, PC copy, OCR, printing or save as a file or PDF).

Personal photolab
In a special process called FINE, Canon has adapted its own silicon chip manufacturing technology to create print heads with the tolerance and precision similar to that of integrated circuits. The FINE print heads featured in these new PIXMA Multifunctionals deliver microscopic droplets with unrivalled speed, reliability, consistency and accuracy, which cannot be achieved with traditional ink jet print heads that are assembled from multiple parts. This provides for photo print quality which compares to that offered by many commercial photolabs.
Borderless 4800 x 1200 dpi lab-quality photo prints are available on a variety of stocks up to A4 (including Photo Paper Pro card stock).

Colour and mono copy functions
High print speeds also translate directly to fast copy speeds, mono copying automatically utilises 600 x 600 dpi, while colour copying takes advantage of 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution to maximise copy quality. Borderless copies and ‘fit to page’ formats are supported as well as 2-in-1copy feature.

Powerful scanning
Documents, cards, photos and books can all scan on the flatbed scanner at 1200 x 2400 dpi resolution. 9600 x 9600 dpi is achievable with software enhancement. Multi?Photo creates individual files from multiple photographs scanned in a single pass. The advanced Z-lid improves scan and copy quality of thick books and magazines by applying even pressure across the entire document.

Software
Both devices come with the following software:
ScanSoft OmniPage SE – a powerful Optical Character Recognition application that scans text for conversion into recognisable text characters/data for editing. Saves time and increases productivity by quickly turning PDF files and stacks of paper into word processing and spreadsheet documents.
Arcsoft PhotoStudio – an image-editing program featuring automatic colour and tone enhancement, cloning, animated 3D text and over 40 special effects.
Easy-PhotoPrint – assists with options such as media selection and scaling. It includes features such as Face Sharpening for out-of-focus face correction, Red Eye Correction and Digital Face Smoothing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Easy-WebPrint – sits on the Explorer toolbar and takes the frustration out of web page printing, saving time, ink and paper by correctly scaling output to print one-page-per-sheet, preventing the common problem of having the right-hand side of web pages cut off.

Jul 11: Canon PIXMA MP110 Multifunctional Printer

The Canon PIXMA MP110 Multifunctional Printer is an innovatively designed multi function device. It combines a photolab printer, scnanner and copier in one unit.

The MP110 prints at speeds up to 18ppm (mono) and 13 ppm (colour). Borderless 4800 x 1200 dpi lab-quality photo prints are available on a variety of stocks up to A4.

Get more information and specifications on the Canon PIXMA MP110 Multifunctional Printer from the following press release from Canon announcing its release and that of its big brother, the Canon PIXMA MP130.

Canon Press Release 09/07/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today unveils a radical new design concept for its range-opening multi-function devices, the PIXMA MP110 and PIXMA MP130. With a gleaming white finish and clean lines, the compact, integrated units represent a daring departure from the look of traditional print devices to combine scanner, copier and a photolab printer into a single unit.

- 18 ppm mono / 13 ppm colour document printer
- Photo printer - 4800 x 1200 dpi, 2 picolitre ink droplet size, FINE (Full-Photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering technology)
- Colour Copier
- Flat bed scanner - Full colour, 1200 x 2400 dpi optical, USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface
- Card Direct Printing with Photo Index sheet (MP130 only)

"We studied the success of our Digital IXUS cameras, which is based on the combination of technical mastery with purity of design," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "Although technical superiority is a critical side of the equation, people also want their products to reflect a contemporary and desirable look and feel."

With only one cable to reduce clutter, one power source, one driver installation and one investment required, the compact Multifunctionals are designed to save time, space and complication.

A 6-in-1 slot on the MP130 provides direct photo printing from every popular memory card type . The 'Tick-a-box' Photo Index Sheets simplify photo and media selection when printing straight from the memory card - no PC is required.

MP Navigator software, an entirely new utility, is supplied to help users get immediate optimum quality results with minimum fuss. Users select the required process (e.g. scan, print image from PC, then select the desired output: photo print, PC copy, OCR, printing or save as a file or PDF).

Personal photolab
In a special process called FINE, Canon has adapted its own silicon chip manufacturing technology to create print heads with the tolerance and precision similar to that of integrated circuits. The FINE print heads featured in these new PIXMA Multifunctionals deliver microscopic droplets with unrivalled speed, reliability, consistency and accuracy, which cannot be achieved with traditional ink jet print heads that are assembled from multiple parts. This provides for photo print quality which compares to that offered by many commercial photolabs.
Borderless 4800 x 1200 dpi lab-quality photo prints are available on a variety of stocks up to A4 (including Photo Paper Pro card stock).

Colour and mono copy functions
High print speeds also translate directly to fast copy speeds, mono copying automatically utilises 600 x 600 dpi, while colour copying takes advantage of 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution to maximise copy quality. Borderless copies and ‘fit to page’ formats are supported as well as 2-in-1copy feature.

Powerful scanning
Documents, cards, photos and books can all scan on the flatbed scanner at 1200 x 2400 dpi resolution. 9600 x 9600 dpi is achievable with software enhancement. Multi?Photo creates individual files from multiple photographs scanned in a single pass. The advanced Z-lid improves scan and copy quality of thick books and magazines by applying even pressure across the entire document.

Software
Both devices come with the following software:
ScanSoft OmniPage SE – a powerful Optical Character Recognition application that scans text for conversion into recognisable text characters/data for editing. Saves time and increases productivity by quickly turning PDF files and stacks of paper into word processing and spreadsheet documents.
Arcsoft PhotoStudio – an image-editing program featuring automatic colour and tone enhancement, cloning, animated 3D text and over 40 special effects.
Easy-PhotoPrint – assists with options such as media selection and scaling. It includes features such as Face Sharpening for out-of-focus face correction, Red Eye Correction and Digital Face Smoothing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Easy-WebPrint – sits on the Explorer toolbar and takes the frustration out of web page printing, saving time, ink and paper by correctly scaling output to print one-page-per-sheet, preventing the common problem of having the right-hand side of web pages cut off.

Jul 11: Imation 1 Gigabyte USB 2.0 Swivel Flash Drive

Press Release
Imation Corp., a worldwide leader in removable data storage media, today announced the availability of its one gigabyte (GB) USB 2.0 Swivel Flash Drive, extending its flash drive line with offerings ranging from 128 megabytes (MB) to 1GB. Ideal for business users and consumers alike, the new Imation USB 2.0 Swivel Flash Drives feature a "never-lose" swivel cap design, delivering an easy, portable means of protecting, transferring and sharing digital information.

"USB Flash drives are increasingly popular with people who need to share large files or to carry their files for use on different computers," said Jim Ellis, general manager, New Business Ventures, Imation Corp. "Imation is meeting this market need with a USB flash drive design that is uniquely useful and convenient, and focused on protecting important files — as are all of Imation's removable storage products."

Imation's USB 2.0 Swivel Flash drives weigh less than one ounce and are about the size of a AA battery. The small size makes the light-weight drive highly portable, fitting conveniently onto a supplied lanyard, or easily slipped into a pocket. The drives read at 8MB/sec and write data at 7MB/sec. By plugging directly into the USB port of any computer, Imation USB 2.0 Swivel Flash Drives can easily store digital information such as documents, music, presentations, photos and more. Optional public/private drive partitioning and password protection software (available via a free download from Imation.com) can protect data from accidental erasure or unauthorized access.

The new 1GB drives are available for a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $360. Actual retail prices may vary.

Imation USB 2.0 Swivel Flash Drives are now available in 128MB, 256MB, 512MB and 1GB capacities, and are available from Imation authorized distributors and resellers — for current locations, visit imation.com/wheretobuy. They are also available at store.imation.com. For more information on Imation USB 2.0 Swivel Flash Drives, please visit www.imation.com/flash.

Jul 10: Digital Camera Manufacturers Target China

The Taipei Times has an interesting article into the untapped digital camera market of China.

'Most of China's 1.3 billion people can't afford digital cameras, but analysts say there is a pool of some 400 million potential customers living in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and other large cities near the coast.

Not surprisingly, key players in the US$15 billion worldwide digital camera market are gearing up to tap what China has to offer, eager to find new customers as growth rates in Japan and other more mature markets begin to slow.

"China is probably the only untapped big market remaining with real growth potential," said Makoto Kimura, managing director and head of digital camera operations at Nikon Corp, the world's sixth-best selling digital camera brand.

Sales in the Chinese market doubled last year to 1.4 million units -- still relatively tiny in absolute terms. Shipments reached 15.6 million units in Western Europe and 8.5 million in Japan, according to research firm International Data Corp (IDC).'

Jul 10: DXG-308U Underwater Digital Camera

'Digital camera manufacturer DXG USA, which entered the U.S. market under its own brand this year, announced an aggressively priced underwater digital camera, a partnership with the online photo sharing Web-site creator Homestead, and the addition of several new distributors and retailers.

The 3-megapixel DXG-308U can be submerged in up to 5 meters of water and is shipping now for a suggested $139. The camera features 16MB of internal memory, an SD.MMC expansion slot, 4x digital zoom, four white balance settings and a 1.5-inch LCD screen.' Source - DXG Intros Underwater Digital Camera

Jul 10: Canon PIXMA MP750 Multifunctional Printer

The Canon PIXMA MP750 Multifunctional Printer is a stylishly designed multifunctional device that incorporates a printer, colour copier, flat bed scanner and Camera Direct Printing (just to name a few features).

It prints at up to 25 ppm (mono) and 17 ppm in colour.

Read more about the Canon PIXMA MP750 Multifunctional Printer in the following press release from Canon announcing it and its big brother, the Canon PIXMA MP780.

Canon Press Release 09/07/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today unveils two range-leading PIXMA 'all-in-one' devices: the PIXMA MP750 and PIXMA MP780 Multifunctionals. Featuring a stylish, futuristic new design, the devices unify every required home?office product feature and more, into a single unit:

- 25 ppm mono / 17 ppm colour document printer
- Photo printer - 4800 x 1200 dpi, 2 picolitre ink droplets, PictBridge compatible
- Colour Copier - 22 cpm Mono / 17 cpm Colour, 35 page Automatic Document Feeder
- Flat bed scanner - Full colour, 2400 x 4800 dpi optical resolution, USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface
- 2 way paper feeding - Sheet feeder and cassette
- CD-R/DVD printer
- Fax (MP780) - Super G3, full colour, 250 page memory
- Large backlit LCD with icon display for easy of use
- Camera Direct Printing

The MP750 and MP780 are two of eight devices launched today by Canon under its new PIXMA sub-brand. In response to accelerating demand for personal photo printers, all PIXMA products support photolab quality or better printing with FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) and 2 picolitre ink droplets. A minimalist design ethic incorporates clean lines, super-gloss finishes and 2-Way paper paths that allow flexible storage and operation.

"These PIXMA multifunction devices close the door on beige, bland and boring. In a new era of designer technology, the MP750 and MP780 greatly improve the look of office products," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "In addition, they offer blistering speeds and professional photolab quality prints, making them ideal for the busy home office or small office where fast, professional output is essential."

All in one
With only one cable, one power source, one driver installation and only one investment required, the compact MP750 and MP780 are designed to save time, space and complication. A duplex unit provides automatic double sided printing and copying and dual paper paths allow switching from plain paper to special photo media without having to change paper. Both units support printing directly onto compatible CD-R and DVDs.

Personal photolab printing
In a special process called FINE, Canon has adapted its own silicon chip manufacturing technology to create print heads with the tolerance and precision close to that of integrated circuits. The FINE print heads in the MP750 and MP780 have 1856 Micro-Nozzles that can eject millions of ink droplets as small as 2 picolitres per second. This gets more ink on the page in less time and with greater accuracy for grain-free prints of unsurpassed clarity, contrast, colour range and smoothness of tone.

Documents print at up to 25 ppm (mono) and 17 ppm (colour), while 4” x 6” borderless photo will print in 36 seconds. Printing direct from most current digital cameras and digital video cameras without first downloading to PC is provided with support for the vendor independent
PictBridge print standard.

Better inks, better contrast, no waste
Both devices employ Canon's ContrastPLUS technology which utilises a pigment-based black ink for crisp, sharp document printing, and a dye-based black and colours for high contrast, lustrous photo printing. Each ink is stored in a transparent, individually replaceable tank. To eliminate waste, only the ink that is exhausted needs to be replaced. A pop up window on their computer warns users when a particular colour is running low and the device will not start to print a page if there is insufficient ink to finish.

Fast scanning and copying
The devices incorporate an auto document feeder that lifts to expose a flatbed scanner/copier, providing users with true copier and high-speed scan functionality and flexibility. High resolution scanning and accurate colour reproduction are assured with 2400 x 4800 dpi optical resolution, 48/24 bit (in/out) scanning depth, and the devices will create full bleed borderless copies up to A4. Paper documents can be scanned and stored electronically as PDF files with the ‘Scan-to-PDF’ function.

Faxing
The MP780 features a Super G3 fax – the fastest attainable fax modem speed with capacity to receive multiple faxes without blocking the line, and full colour transmission capability. A 250 page memory ensures no faxes are lost, even if the machine runs out of ink or paper overnight. Faxing direct from PC applications is also supported.

Making things easy
MP Navigator software, an entirely new utility, is supplied to help users get immediate optimum quality results with minimum fuss. Users select the required process (e.g. scan, print image from PC, then select the desired output: photo print, PC copy, OCR, printing or save as a file or PDF).

Software
The MP750 and MP780 are bundled with the following software packages:
ScanSoft OmniPage SE – Optical Character Recognition application that converts scanned text into characters for editing or storage as a searchable text file.
Presto!PageManager – (Windows only) the electronic document management and filing system to assist with scanning, sharing and organising photos and documents, by automatically linking to over 100 possible popular applications.
Easy-PhotoPrint – assists with options such as media selection and scaling. It includes features such as Face Sharpening for out-of-focus face correction, Red Eye Correction and Digital Face Smoothing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Easy-WebPrint – (Windows only) sits on the Explorer toolbar and takes the frustration out of web page printing, saving time, ink and paper by correctly scaling output to print one-page-per-sheet, preventing the common problem of having the right-hand side of web pages cut off.

The MP750 and MP780 are compatible with Win98/Me/2000/XP and Mac OSX v10.2.4 or later.

Jul 10: Canon PIXMA MP780 Multifunctional Printer

The Canon PIXMA MP780 Multifunctional Printer is a stylishly designed multifunctional device that incorporates a printer, colour copier, flat bed scanner, Fax and Camera Direct Printing.
It prints at up to 25 ppm (mono) and 17 ppm in colour.

Read more about the Canon PIXMA MP780 Multifunctional Printer in the following press release from Canon announcing it and its big brother, the Canon PIXMA MP750.

Canon Press Release 09/07/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today unveils two range-leading PIXMA 'all-in-one' devices: the PIXMA MP750 and PIXMA MP780 Multifunctionals. Featuring a stylish, futuristic new design, the devices unify every required home?office product feature and more, into a single unit:

- 25 ppm mono / 17 ppm colour document printer
- Photo printer - 4800 x 1200 dpi, 2 picolitre ink droplets, PictBridge compatible
- Colour Copier - 22 cpm Mono / 17 cpm Colour, 35 page Automatic Document Feeder
- Flat bed scanner - Full colour, 2400 x 4800 dpi optical resolution, USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface
- 2 way paper feeding - Sheet feeder and cassette
- CD-R/DVD printer
- Fax (MP780) - Super G3, full colour, 250 page memory
- Large backlit LCD with icon display for easy of use
- Camera Direct Printing

The MP750 and MP780 are two of eight devices launched today by Canon under its new PIXMA sub-brand. In response to accelerating demand for personal photo printers, all PIXMA products support photolab quality or better printing with FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) and 2 picolitre ink droplets. A minimalist design ethic incorporates clean lines, super-gloss finishes and 2-Way paper paths that allow flexible storage and operation.

"These PIXMA multifunction devices close the door on beige, bland and boring. In a new era of designer technology, the MP750 and MP780 greatly improve the look of office products," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "In addition, they offer blistering speeds and professional photolab quality prints, making them ideal for the busy home office or small office where fast, professional output is essential."

All in one
With only one cable, one power source, one driver installation and only one investment required, the compact MP750 and MP780 are designed to save time, space and complication. A duplex unit provides automatic double sided printing and copying and dual paper paths allow switching from plain paper to special photo media without having to change paper. Both units support printing directly onto compatible CD-R and DVDs.

Personal photolab printing
In a special process called FINE, Canon has adapted its own silicon chip manufacturing technology to create print heads with the tolerance and precision close to that of integrated circuits. The FINE print heads in the MP750 and MP780 have 1856 Micro-Nozzles that can eject millions of ink droplets as small as 2 picolitres per second. This gets more ink on the page in less time and with greater accuracy for grain-free prints of unsurpassed clarity, contrast, colour range and smoothness of tone.

Documents print at up to 25 ppm (mono) and 17 ppm (colour), while 4” x 6” borderless photo will print in 36 seconds. Printing direct from most current digital cameras and digital video cameras without first downloading to PC is provided with support for the vendor independent
PictBridge print standard.

Better inks, better contrast, no waste
Both devices employ Canon's ContrastPLUS technology which utilises a pigment-based black ink for crisp, sharp document printing, and a dye-based black and colours for high contrast, lustrous photo printing. Each ink is stored in a transparent, individually replaceable tank. To eliminate waste, only the ink that is exhausted needs to be replaced. A pop up window on their computer warns users when a particular colour is running low and the device will not start to print a page if there is insufficient ink to finish.

Fast scanning and copying
The devices incorporate an auto document feeder that lifts to expose a flatbed scanner/copier, providing users with true copier and high-speed scan functionality and flexibility. High resolution scanning and accurate colour reproduction are assured with 2400 x 4800 dpi optical resolution, 48/24 bit (in/out) scanning depth, and the devices will create full bleed borderless copies up to A4. Paper documents can be scanned and stored electronically as PDF files with the ‘Scan-to-PDF’ function.

Faxing
The MP780 features a Super G3 fax – the fastest attainable fax modem speed with capacity to receive multiple faxes without blocking the line, and full colour transmission capability. A 250 page memory ensures no faxes are lost, even if the machine runs out of ink or paper overnight. Faxing direct from PC applications is also supported.

Making things easy
MP Navigator software, an entirely new utility, is supplied to help users get immediate optimum quality results with minimum fuss. Users select the required process (e.g. scan, print image from PC, then select the desired output: photo print, PC copy, OCR, printing or save as a file or PDF).

Software
The MP750 and MP780 are bundled with the following software packages:
ScanSoft OmniPage SE – Optical Character Recognition application that converts scanned text into characters for editing or storage as a searchable text file.
Presto!PageManager – (Windows only) the electronic document management and filing system to assist with scanning, sharing and organising photos and documents, by automatically linking to over 100 possible popular applications.
Easy-PhotoPrint – assists with options such as media selection and scaling. It includes features such as Face Sharpening for out-of-focus face correction, Red Eye Correction and Digital Face Smoothing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Easy-WebPrint – (Windows only) sits on the Explorer toolbar and takes the frustration out of web page printing, saving time, ink and paper by correctly scaling output to print one-page-per-sheet, preventing the common problem of having the right-hand side of web pages cut off.

The MP750 and MP780 are compatible with Win98/Me/2000/XP and Mac OSX v10.2.4 or later.

Jul 10: Canon PIXMA iP2000 Printer

The Canon PIXMA iP2000 printer is a 4800 x 1200 dpi personal photo/document printer that prints at up to 20ppm. It offers 2 picolitre photolab print quality at an entry level price.

The PIXMA iP2000 printes in 4” x 6”, 5” x 7” and A4 formats.

PC Mag reviews the Canon PIXMA iP2000 and writes - 'For output quality rankings, the iP2000 earned a good rating for text, with more than half the fonts we test with easily readable at 4 points. Graphics were just short of very good, with some minor visible banding, and a tendency for sheets with full page graphics to curl. Photos were just short of excellent, primarily because of an extremely slight tint in monochrome output. These scores give a slight edge over the iP3000 for graphics. But keep in mind that the lower score for the iP3000 is based on output in default mode. We saw little to no difference in high quality mode.'

For more information and specifications of the Canon PIXMA iP2000 Printer see the following press release from Canon announcing it and its little brother, the Canon PIXMA iP1500 Printer.

Canon Press Release 09/07/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July, 2004: Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces two 4800 x 1200 dpi personal photo/document printers to open its new PIXMA range - the 20 ppm PIXMA iP2000 and 18 ppm PIXMA iP1500. The printers offer remarkable 2 picolitre photolab print quality at entry level price points from Canon’s unique FINE (Full-Photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) print head technology.

The 4 ink iP1500 and iP2000 represent new levels of price performance, with print quality that was until recently only available in dedicated 6 ink photo printers.

"With these new PIXMA printers, Canon confirms a commitment to bringing consumers true photo performance, consistent reliability and superb design across the entire range," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "The introduction of 2 picolitre photolab quality at this price point brings a new level of performance to range-opening printers that will change consumers’ expectations of personal photo printing standards."

A tolerance for quality
In a patented process called FINE, Canon has adapted its own silicon chip manufacturing technology to create print heads with tolerance and precision similar to that of integrated circuits. FINE print heads use Micro-Nozzles to eject millions of microscopic droplets each second with unrivalled consistency and accuracy. Tolerances afforded by FINE simply cannot be achieved with traditional ink-jet print heads, which must be assembled from multiple parts. The result is photo prints with a look and feel comparable to that of traditional silver-halide photolab prints.

Personal photolab
Both printers provide borderless printing in 4” x 6”, 5” x 7” and A4 formats. The Easy-PhotoPrint application supplied with the printers assists with options such as media selection and scaling to make photo printing fast and simple. It is designed to perfect image quality in a few clicks, with functions such as Face Sharpening to correct out-of-focus faces, Red Eye Correction and Digital Face Smoothing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Canon PhotoRecord guides users through printing a personalised photo album, including assistance with printing on Canon's new double-sided media.

The iP2000 provides direct photo printing with the vendor independent PictBridge standard. Any compatible digital camera or digital video cameras can connect directly to the printer via USB cable for direct printing without the need for a PC.

Faster than ever
The iP1500 and iP2000 are significantly faster than Canon’s previous entry-level printers: the iP2000 prints at 20 ppm mono / 14 ppm colour while the iP1500 prints at 18 ppm mono / 13 ppm colour. While some competing brands have a fast 'draft mode', the Canon printers' true speed advantage becomes evident when the printers are called upon to print high quality documents and/or high resolution photos. For example both printers will print out a high quality borderless 4” x 6” photo in less than one minute.

Designer printing
The new PIXMA printer range is defined by cutting edge designs that excel in both functionality and aesthetics, and all are furnished with a style and finish appropriate for the home environment. Both printers are remarkably compact and robust, while the iP2000 has a cassette ('U' turn) paper path in addition to the traditional sheet feeder (‘J’ pass) path. This allows the printer to be stored and operated in confined areas, such as a shelf, making it ideal for home use. The dual paper path also allows the iP2000 to be loaded with plain paper and photo print media simultaneously, so both documents and photos can printed without the need for stopping and changing paper.

New photo media
Canon’s new media extends the creative and practical applications of the printers:

- Double sided photo paper (Photo Paper Plus Double Sided PP-101D) in A4 and 5” x 7” sizes. As well as standard packs, this media is available as a kit (Photo Album Kit PAK-101) which includes a high quality hardback album cover to make photo albums, scrapbooks and personal books
- Credit card size glossy media (Glossy Photo Paper GP-401) – ideal for printing wallet photographs and name cards
- Photo stickers (Photo Stickers PS-101) – sheets of 16 small photo stickers, for fun and practical purposes
- Photo stickers – sheets of 16 small photo stickers, for fun and practical purposes

Easy web printing
The printers are also equipped with Easy-WebPrint software, which sits on the Explorer toolbar. Taking the frustration out of web page printing, Easy-WebPrint saves, time, ink and paper by correctly scaling output to print the entire page (even when it extends over multiple screens) to prevent cutting off the right hand side of the page.

Connection is via USB interface and both printers are compatible with both Windows (Win98/Me/2000/XP) and Macintosh operating systems.

Jul 10: Canon PIXMA iP1500 Printer

The Canon PIXMA iP1500 printer is a 4800 x 1200 dpi personal photo/document printer that prints at up to 18ppm. It offers 2 picolitre photolab print quality at an entry level price.

The PIXMA iP1500 printes in 4” x 6”, 5” x 7” and A4 formats.

PC Mag has a review of the Canon Pixma iP1500 and writes - 'Output quality is another strong point. The rating for photos is just short of excellent, with most photos in our test qualifying as true photo quality, but with a minor tint on our monochrome test photo. Text printing rates as good, with more than half the test fonts easily readable at 4 points, but some stylized fonts needing 12 points for easy readability. Graphics were marred by slight banding in default mode, but still rank as just short of very good.'

For more information and specifications of the Canon PIXMA iP1500 Printer see the following press release from Canon announcing it and its big brother, the Canon PIXMA iP2000 Printer.

Canon Press Release 09/07/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July, 2004: Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces two 4800 x 1200 dpi personal photo/document printers to open its new PIXMA range - the 20 ppm PIXMA iP2000 and 18 ppm PIXMA iP1500. The printers offer remarkable 2 picolitre photolab print quality at entry level price points from Canon’s unique FINE (Full-Photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) print head technology.

The 4 ink iP1500 and iP2000 represent new levels of price performance, with print quality that was until recently only available in dedicated 6 ink photo printers.

"With these new PIXMA printers, Canon confirms a commitment to bringing consumers true photo performance, consistent reliability and superb design across the entire range," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "The introduction of 2 picolitre photolab quality at this price point brings a new level of performance to range-opening printers that will change consumers’ expectations of personal photo printing standards."

A tolerance for quality
In a patented process called FINE, Canon has adapted its own silicon chip manufacturing technology to create print heads with tolerance and precision similar to that of integrated circuits. FINE print heads use Micro-Nozzles to eject millions of microscopic droplets each second with unrivalled consistency and accuracy. Tolerances afforded by FINE simply cannot be achieved with traditional ink-jet print heads, which must be assembled from multiple parts. The result is photo prints with a look and feel comparable to that of traditional silver-halide photolab prints.

Personal photolab
Both printers provide borderless printing in 4” x 6”, 5” x 7” and A4 formats. The Easy-PhotoPrint application supplied with the printers assists with options such as media selection and scaling to make photo printing fast and simple. It is designed to perfect image quality in a few clicks, with functions such as Face Sharpening to correct out-of-focus faces, Red Eye Correction and Digital Face Smoothing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Canon PhotoRecord guides users through printing a personalised photo album, including assistance with printing on Canon's new double-sided media.

The iP2000 provides direct photo printing with the vendor independent PictBridge standard. Any compatible digital camera or digital video cameras can connect directly to the printer via USB cable for direct printing without the need for a PC.

Faster than ever
The iP1500 and iP2000 are significantly faster than Canon’s previous entry-level printers: the iP2000 prints at 20 ppm mono / 14 ppm colour while the iP1500 prints at 18 ppm mono / 13 ppm colour. While some competing brands have a fast 'draft mode', the Canon printers' true speed advantage becomes evident when the printers are called upon to print high quality documents and/or high resolution photos. For example both printers will print out a high quality borderless 4” x 6” photo in less than one minute.

Designer printing
The new PIXMA printer range is defined by cutting edge designs that excel in both functionality and aesthetics, and all are furnished with a style and finish appropriate for the home environment. Both printers are remarkably compact and robust, while the iP2000 has a cassette ('U' turn) paper path in addition to the traditional sheet feeder (‘J’ pass) path. This allows the printer to be stored and operated in confined areas, such as a shelf, making it ideal for home use. The dual paper path also allows the iP2000 to be loaded with plain paper and photo print media simultaneously, so both documents and photos can printed without the need for stopping and changing paper.

New photo media
Canon’s new media extends the creative and practical applications of the printers:

- Double sided photo paper (Photo Paper Plus Double Sided PP-101D) in A4 and 5” x 7” sizes. As well as standard packs, this media is available as a kit (Photo Album Kit PAK-101) which includes a high quality hardback album cover to make photo albums, scrapbooks and personal books
- Credit card size glossy media (Glossy Photo Paper GP-401) – ideal for printing wallet photographs and name cards
- Photo stickers (Photo Stickers PS-101) – sheets of 16 small photo stickers, for fun and practical purposes
- Photo stickers – sheets of 16 small photo stickers, for fun and practical purposes

Easy web printing
The printers are also equipped with Easy-WebPrint software, which sits on the Explorer toolbar. Taking the frustration out of web page printing, Easy-WebPrint saves, time, ink and paper by correctly scaling output to print the entire page (even when it extends over multiple screens) to prevent cutting off the right hand side of the page.

Connection is via USB interface and both printers are compatible with both Windows (Win98/Me/2000/XP) and Macintosh operating systems.

Jul 10: Canon PIXMA iP4000 Printer

The Canon PIXMA iP4000 is a 4800 x 1200 dpi personal photo/document printers. It has 2 picolitre droplet performance from FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology print heads and is capable of producing glossy borderless photo prints direct from contemporary digital still and digital video cameras. It prints at 25 ppm at what Canon describes as 'beyond traditional photolab quality.

Steve's Digicams reviewed the Canon PIXMA iP4000 and writes 'Unlike most of the other "photo printers," the Pixma iP4000 is also an incredibly fast general purpose printer and its text output is brilliant. So while your buddy's expensive photo printer is just sitting there doing nothing 99% of the time, your iP4000 is printing letters, web pages, spreadsheets and making marvelous photos too. '

Get more information and specifications on the Canon PIXMA iP4000 from the following press release from Canon announcing it and its little brother the iP3000.

Canon Press Release 09/07/04
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July, 2004: Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today unveils a bold new look for its new PIXMA range, with the launch of two 4800 x 1200 dpi personal photo/document printers. With 2 picolitre droplet performance from FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology print heads, both printers are capable of producing glossy borderless photo prints direct from contemporary digital still and digital video cameras.

The PIXMA iP4000 and PIXMA iP3000 both feature convention-defying designs to match their 2 picolitre photolab quality and respected 25 ppm / 22 ppm performance. Radical designs reflect Canon's recognition of the increasing preference amongst customers for products that excel in both aesthetics and functionality. A lustrous high quality grey finish completes sleek, clean lines of the integrated shells, giving the printers a futuristic look.

"PIXMA represents a clear departure from conventional desk top devices," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "With their cleverly integrated functionality and their superb, striking designs, these two printers can be placed anywhere in the living or working environment and fit right in."

Personal photolab
In a process called FINE, Canon has adapted its own silicon chip manufacturing technology to create print heads with the tolerance and precision similar to that of integrated circuits. FINE print heads now feature in all PIXMA printers, Micro-Nozzles deliver microscopic droplets with unrivalled speed, reliability, consistency and accuracy, which cannot be achieved by traditional ink jet print heads that are assembled from multiple parts.

The vendor independent PictBridge standard is supported for direct cable connection photo printing with any compatible digital camera or digital video camera, without the need for a PC. Borderless photos print in credit card, 4” x 6”, 5” x 7”, and A4 formats.

Powerful software completes the printers photolab capabilities – EasyPhotoPrint and Photorecord give the user a fast, powerful route to creating individual prints, albums and more.

Beyond photolab quality
The iP4000 goes beyond traditional photolab quality, achieving exceptionally crisp, high contrast photo prints with Canon’s pioneering ContrastPLUS technology – a five tank ink system that includes an additional dye-based black ink for sharper contrast. The introduction of the extra ink will appeal to exacting users looking for the next level in printing lab-quality photographs, as well as users requiring crisp text documents from conventional pigment black ink.

Faster than ever
FINE print heads get more ink onto the page in less time for remarkably fast print times. The iP3000 and iP4000 are significantly faster than other printers in their class: both printers achieve fast borderless 4” x 6” photo printing in just 36 seconds and are capable of printing a full A4 colour document in only 26 seconds. The iP3000 prints at 22 ppm (mono) / 15 ppm (colour), while the iP4000 prints at 25 ppm (mono) / 17 ppm (colour).

Single Ink technology
Both printers feature Canon’s ‘Transparent’ single ink system, where each ink is stored in an individually replaceable tank. An economical feature that minimizes waste, only the ink that is exhausted needs to be replaced. Users are warned with a pop up window on their computer when a particular colour is running low and the printer will not start to print a page if there is insufficient ink to finish.

Locational freedom
One of the key design objectives of PIXMA is to maximise flexibility of location. As well as being furnished with a style and finish appropriate for the home environment, PIXMA printers are the only devices on the market that include both the traditional sheet feeder ('J' pass) paper path and a cassette ('U' turn path), allowing the printer to be stored and operated on a shelf or in other areas where space is at a premium. Dual paper trays also permit the printers to be loaded with plain paper and photo print media simultaneously, so both documents and photos can be printed without the need for stopping and changing paper. Dual paper trays, auto duplex printing and CD-R/DVD printing functions are now completely integrated without compromising the printer’s clean lines – a first in printer design.

New photo media
Canon’s new media extends the creative and practical applications of the printers:
- Double sided photo paper (Photo Paper Plus Double Sided PP-101D) in A4 and 5” x 7” sizes. As well as standard packs, this media is available as a kit (Photo Album Kit PAK-101) which includes a high quality hardback album cover to make photo albums, scrapbooks and personal books
- Credit card size glossy media (Glossy Photo Paper GP-401) – ideal for printing wallet photographs and name cards
- Photo stickers (Photo Stickers PS-101) – sheets of 16 small photo stickers, for fun and practical purposes

Easy photo and web printing
Both printers are bundled with the following software packages:
Easy-PhotoPrint – provides three easy steps to printing photos. Assisting with options such as media selection and scaling, it includes features such as Face Sharpening for out-of-focus face correction, Red Eye Correction and Digital Face Smoothing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Easy-WebPrint – sits on the Explorer toolbar and takes the frustration out of web page printing, saving time, ink and paper by correctly scaling output to print one-page-per-sheet, preventing the common problem of having the right-hand side of web pages cut off.

CD-LabelPrint – for easy creation and printing on print ready CD or DVD media.

Compatibility
The iP3000 is compatible with Windows 98/Me/2000/XP.
The inclusion of a parallel port on the iP4000 gives additional support for Windows 95 and Windows NT.
Both printers are compatible with Macintosh OS 9.x and OSX v10.2.1 or later.

Jul 10: Canon PIXMA iP3000 Printer

The Canon PIXMA iP3000 is a 4800 x 1200 dpi personal photo/document printers. It has 2 picolitre droplet performance from FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology print heads and is capable of producing glossy borderless photo prints direct from contemporary digital still and digital video cameras. It prints at 22 ppm.

PC Mag reviews the Canon PIXMA iP3000 and writes - 'To say that the iP3000 is impressively fast understates the case. On our photo suite, it averaged 1 minute 7 seconds for 4-by-6 photos, and 2:34 for 8-by-10s. As of this writing, only the $500 Canon i9900 photo printer has proven faster (at 30 seconds for each 4-by-6 and 1:05 for each 8-by-10). More interesting is that the iP3000 also printed our business applications suite at high speed, with a 15:48 total that has been matched only by the iP4000. Even the current AIO ink jet Editors' Choice for business applications, the Brother MFC-3420c, was slower, at 20:24.'

Get more information and specifications on the Canon PIXMA iP3000 from the following press release from Canon announcing it and its big brother the iP4000.

Canon Press Release 09/07/04

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July, 2004: Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today unveils a bold new look for its new PIXMA range, with the launch of two 4800 x 1200 dpi personal photo/document printers. With 2 picolitre droplet performance from FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology print heads, both printers are capable of producing glossy borderless photo prints direct from contemporary digital still and digital video cameras.

The PIXMA iP4000 and PIXMA iP3000 both feature convention-defying designs to match their 2 picolitre photolab quality and respected 25 ppm / 22 ppm performance. Radical designs reflect Canon's recognition of the increasing preference amongst customers for products that excel in both aesthetics and functionality. A lustrous high quality grey finish completes sleek, clean lines of the integrated shells, giving the printers a futuristic look.

"PIXMA represents a clear departure from conventional desk top devices," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "With their cleverly integrated functionality and their superb, striking designs, these two printers can be placed anywhere in the living or working environment and fit right in."

Personal photolab
In a process called FINE, Canon has adapted its own silicon chip manufacturing technology to create print heads with the tolerance and precision similar to that of integrated circuits. FINE print heads now feature in all PIXMA printers, Micro-Nozzles deliver microscopic droplets with unrivalled speed, reliability, consistency and accuracy, which cannot be achieved by traditional ink jet print heads that are assembled from multiple parts.

The vendor independent PictBridge standard is supported for direct cable connection photo printing with any compatible digital camera or digital video camera, without the need for a PC. Borderless photos print in credit card, 4” x 6”, 5” x 7”, and A4 formats.

Powerful software completes the printers photolab capabilities – EasyPhotoPrint and Photorecord give the user a fast, powerful route to creating individual prints, albums and more.

Beyond photolab quality
The iP4000 goes beyond traditional photolab quality, achieving exceptionally crisp, high contrast photo prints with Canon’s pioneering ContrastPLUS technology – a five tank ink system that includes an additional dye-based black ink for sharper contrast. The introduction of the extra ink will appeal to exacting users looking for the next level in printing lab-quality photographs, as well as users requiring crisp text documents from conventional pigment black ink.

Faster than ever
FINE print heads get more ink onto the page in less time for remarkably fast print times. The iP3000 and iP4000 are significantly faster than other printers in their class: both printers achieve fast borderless 4” x 6” photo printing in just 36 seconds and are capable of printing a full A4 colour document in only 26 seconds. The iP3000 prints at 22 ppm (mono) / 15 ppm (colour), while the iP4000 prints at 25 ppm (mono) / 17 ppm (colour).

Single Ink technology
Both printers feature Canon’s ‘Transparent’ single ink system, where each ink is stored in an individually replaceable tank. An economical feature that minimizes waste, only the ink that is exhausted needs to be replaced. Users are warned with a pop up window on their computer when a particular colour is running low and the printer will not start to print a page if there is insufficient ink to finish.

Locational freedom
One of the key design objectives of PIXMA is to maximise flexibility of location. As well as being furnished with a style and finish appropriate for the home environment, PIXMA printers are the only devices on the market that include both the traditional sheet feeder ('J' pass) paper path and a cassette ('U' turn path), allowing the printer to be stored and operated on a shelf or in other areas where space is at a premium. Dual paper trays also permit the printers to be loaded with plain paper and photo print media simultaneously, so both documents and photos can be printed without the need for stopping and changing paper. Dual paper trays, auto duplex printing and CD-R/DVD printing functions are now completely integrated without compromising the printer’s clean lines – a first in printer design.

New photo media
Canon’s new media extends the creative and practical applications of the printers:
- Double sided photo paper (Photo Paper Plus Double Sided PP-101D) in A4 and 5” x 7” sizes. As well as standard packs, this media is available as a kit (Photo Album Kit PAK-101) which includes a high quality hardback album cover to make photo albums, scrapbooks and personal books
- Credit card size glossy media (Glossy Photo Paper GP-401) – ideal for printing wallet photographs and name cards
- Photo stickers (Photo Stickers PS-101) – sheets of 16 small photo stickers, for fun and practical purposes

Easy photo and web printing
Both printers are bundled with the following software packages:
Easy-PhotoPrint – provides three easy steps to printing photos. Assisting with options such as media selection and scaling, it includes features such as Face Sharpening for out-of-focus face correction, Red Eye Correction and Digital Face Smoothing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Easy-WebPrint – sits on the Explorer toolbar and takes the frustration out of web page printing, saving time, ink and paper by correctly scaling output to print one-page-per-sheet, preventing the common problem of having the right-hand side of web pages cut off.

CD-LabelPrint – for easy creation and printing on print ready CD or DVD media.

Compatibility
The iP3000 is compatible with Windows 98/Me/2000/XP.
The inclusion of a parallel port on the iP4000 gives additional support for Windows 95 and Windows NT.
Both printers are compatible with Macintosh OS 9.x and OSX v10.2.1 or later.

Jul 8: Canon PIXMA Designer Printers

Photography Blog has another breaking news story of New Printers From Canon. Mark Goldstein writes:

'Canon Europe have just announced a new range of "designer" printers, dubbed the PIXMA range. Well, they have announced them according to the latest issue of the UK-based Amateur Photographer magazine (10 July 2004).'

The printers about to be released include:
- PIXMA iP1500 - entry level - 2 Picoletres droplet size - PictBridge Compatible
- PIXMA iP2000 - entry level - 2 Picoletres droplet size - PictBridge Compatible. This Printer is expected to retail for $77.90
- PIXMA iP3000 - 4800x1200dpi - up to A4 printing - prints 6x4 prints in 36 seconds. This Printer is expected to retail for $US96.00
- PIXMA iP4000 - 4800x1200dpi - up to A4 printing - prints 6x4 prints in 36 seconds - 5 tank tank system. This Printer is expected to retail for $US146.00
- PIXMA MP110 - 18 ppm print/scan/copy
- PIXMA MP130 - 18 ppm print/scan/copy with PictBridge/photo index sheet
- PIXMA MP750 - 25 ppm print/scan/copy, direct photo print, Auto Document Feed, CDR and duplex printing, 2-way paper path, single ink
- PIXMA MP780 - as per MP750 but with fax capability

Update Read the Press Release announcing these printers from Canon Below.

Press Release: Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 July 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today launches the PIXMA sub-brand with the release of eight personal photo printers and multifunctionals. PIXMA represents the first time a manufacturer has released 2 picolitre or better droplets across a range.

Each of the eight devices features:

- Futuristic minimalist design: incorporating clean lines, super-gloss finishes and 2-way paper paths that allow book-shelf storage and operation
- Photo printing: at high-speed and with photolab quality or better
- 2 picolitre ink droplets, with 4800 dpi resolution and image FINE technology

"The new PIXMA range is expected to drive the already rapidly accelerating demand for personal photo printers," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "PIXMA is the meeting of form and function; a combination of designer styling, speed, and photolab quality results. Canon hopes PIXMA will do for printing what Digital IXUS did for photography, where consumers chose cutting edge design matched with top performance."
Direct photo printing from digital cameras without the need for a PC is available from five of the eight devices, which support the vendor independent PictBridge standard.

The PIXMA range includes four single function printers with all-round photo print and document performance:

- PIXMA iP1500: 18 ppm range opener
- PIXMA iP2000: 20 ppm, PictBridge, 2-way paper path
- PIXMA iP3000: 23 ppm, PictBridge/CDR and duplex printing, 2-way paper path, single ink
- PIXMA iP4000: 25 ppm, PictBridge/CDR printing, 2-way paper path, single ink, 5-ink ContrastPLUS system for professional quality photo prints,

and four multifunctionals:

- PIXMA MP110: 18 ppm print/scan/copy
- PIXMA MP130: 18 ppm print/scan/copy with PictBridge/photo index sheet
- PIXMA MP750: 25 ppm print/scan/copy, direct photo print, Auto Document Feed, CDR and duplex printing, 2-way paper path, single ink
- PIXMA MP780: as per MP750 but with fax capability

New approach to design
Everything about the PIXMA range design reinforces the trend toward printers being seen as desirable accessories rather than essential appliances. Key features of the PIXMA products are:

- High quality materials with futuristic designs that deliver a new 'look and feel'
- Bookshelf storage and operation with unique 2-way paper path, small footprints and low noise levels
- Functionality such as CDR writing or duplex printing that seamlessly integrates into the main unit

Technology advantage
Canon is one of the few companies in the world to manufacture stepper machines; industrial appliances used to fabricate silicon chips. In a special process called FINE, Canon has adapted its technology to create print heads with a tolerance similar to that of integrated circuits, impossible to achieve with traditional print heads, which are assembled from multiple parts.
FINE print heads, featuring high-density multi nozzle design, eject millions of microscopic ink droplets per second. This puts more ink on the page in less time and with greater accuracy for fast grain-free prints of unsurpassed clarity, contrast, colour range and smoothness of tone.
Even the range opening iP1500 can produce a borderless 4” x 6" photo print in approximately 58 seconds. The PIXMA range is optimised for both photo and plain document printing.

Jul 8: Audiovox PM-8920 Camera Phone

Sprint PCS have announced their release of the 1.3 megapixel Audiovox PM-8920 Camera Phone.

Reiter's Camera Phone Report reports:

'It will retail for $299.99, with a $150 rebate for a two-year contract and a $100 discount with a one-year contract. Sprint's Web page about the PM-8920 notes the 3.88 ounce handset features two color displays (a larger internal and a smaller external), a flash, an 8x digital zoom and five resolution settings.'

Jul 8: Peeping Tom's secret weapon

'The rapid growth of camera phones has had a sinister side effect - men taking sneaky snaps up the skirts of unsuspecting women. And, Hugh Wilson discovers, they are then pored over by a global audience of voyeurs.' Read More at - 'Peeping Tom's secret weapon' Found via Reiters Camera Phone Report

Jul 8: Olympus P-10 Printer

Press Release from Olympus Australia

The Olympus P-10 is a high-resolution, full colour printer and with the advanced sublimation dye transfer to ensure prints are as sharp and as clear as the originals.

Key Features:

• Sublimation dye transfer printing system and over-coated surfaces, makes prints durable and resistant to light, heat and moisture as well as water droplets and scratches.
• Direct Printing with PictBridge allows images to be immediately printed from a PictBridge-compatible digital camera or print from a personal computer.
• Versatile Print Modes have enabled borderless printing to be on offer for the first time in a sublimation dye transfer printing system. Along with 2/4/9/16 cut multiple and date stamped prints.
• Approx 40 seconds is all it takes to print an image, letting you enjoy photo prints as soon as you want.

Specifications:

Printing System - Sublimation dye transfer printing system Resolution - 310dpi Printing size - (Borderless Print) 1086 x 1551 dots (89 x 127mm) 1220 x 1806 (100 x 148) Colour expression - Approx. 16,770,000 colours Print layout - Standard print (with/without borders) Index print(2/4/9/16), Date/time-stamped print Paper size - L-size paper (89 x 127mm) Postcard-size paper (100 x 148) Paper feed - Cassette-type automatic feeder (maximum 50 sheets) Print durability - Approx. 100 years (when stored in photo album) Maximum print size - 12 megapixels (10 megapixels in TIFF) Print speed - Approx. 40 seconds per sheet (L-size paper) - Approx . 44 seconds per sheet (Postcard-size paper) (excluding data transmission time) Ouput connectors - USB (Type-A): For PictBridge-compatible digital camera. USB (Type-B): For PC connection PC Driver - Windows 98/Me/2000/XP (not compatible with Macintosh) File type - Exif 1.0 ~ Exif 2.2 (JPEG/TIFF), DPOF Direct print system - PictBridge (depending on specifications of the digital camera connected) Size 196 (W) x 190 (D) x 166 (H) mm (excluding protruding parts) Weight 2.3 kg (including paper feeder)

The Olympus P-10 has a RRP of $AU299 and is now available from selected retail outlets.

Jul 8: 6 Month Digital Camera Poduct Cycle

Photography Blog has an interesting reflection after the spate of digital cameras announced today by Minolta titled The 6 Month Product Cycle. Mark asks

'I'm interested to know if you think this is a good thing, giving you more choice as a consumer and ultimately driving down the cost of the older models, or whether you hate the fact that your new camera will be out-of-date in less than 6 months time...'

Jul 7: Konica Minolta Dimage A2 wins TIPA award.

Press Release

Konica Minolta announces that the new Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 8 megapixel digital camera has won the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) Award for “Best Digital Prosumer Camera” in Europe for the year 2004. In addition, the DiMAGE A2 has also received prestigious “Editor's Choice” awards from PC Magazine , CNET and American Photo.

“These awards are especially significant because they recognize Konica Minolta's commitment to producing the highest quality photography products for consumers,” said Jon Sienkiewicz, vice president of marketing, Konica Minolta's Camera Division. “We are honored that the new DiMAGE A2 has been selected as a superior imaging product throughout Europe and the United States.”

According to TIPA, the award for “Best Digital Prosumer Camera” went to the DiMAGE A2 because of Konica Minolta's “exclusive anti-shake system which compensates for camera shake by adjusting the CCD internally. This gives maximum potential for the wide-ranging 28-200mm zoom lens and high resolution image sensor. With SLR style handling and a wide range of control options and overrides this is a fantastic choice for the demanding enthusiast photographer looking for creative images.”

According to PC Magazine , “The Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 offers exceptional functions and excellent handling characteristics.” Its zoom range and anti-shake technology “make the DiMAGE A2 ideal for rock-solid handheld telephoto shots and worthy of an Editors' Choice.”

And CNET had this to say: “Generally efficient design, top-tier performance, and features galore make the DiMAGE A2 a top choice for resolution-hungry enthusiasts.”

American Photo said the DiMAGE A2 “boasts the best electronic viewfinder in the business. At 922,000 pixels, the DiMAGE A2's eyepiece LCD provides resolution more than three times higher than the nearest competitor.”

In addition to the DiMAGE A2, American Photo also selected several other Konica Minolta products to receive a 2004 “Editor's Choice Award as seen in the July/August 2004 issue. These products are the Maxxum 70 Single Lens-Reflex 35mm film camera, 300mm f/2.8 SSM lens, the Zoom 160c 35mm point-and-shoot camera, the DiMAGE Scan Elite 5400 film scanner and the DiMAGE Xg and DiMAGE G600 digital cameras.

Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2
Konica Minolta's DiMAGE A2 8 megapixel single lens-reflex (SLR)-type digital camera features body integral anti-shake technology , ultra-fast operation and high-speed start-up as well as several professional-type functions .

Featuring a fast, innovative new 3D autofocusing (AF) system (1.5 times faster than the DiMAGE A1) with 3D Predicative Focus Control and Movement tracking , a fast built-in f/2.8 – 3.5 7x optical zoom lens, Anti-shake function for still images and VGA quality movies, CxProcess II Image Processing technology, the world's first VGA-resolution Viewfinder (approximately 922,000 pixels), UHS Continuous Advance rate of 7 frames per second, high-speed USB 2.0 support and compatibility with portable and studio flash systems, the DiMAGE A2 provides the tools digital photographers need to express their creativity and solve visual problems.

Technical Image Press Association (TIPA)

The TIPA European Photo & Imaging Award winners are chosen by a group of editors and technical editors representing 31 European photography and imaging magazines from 12 European countries. All are members of the TIPA, which is an independent, non-profit organization open to all European magazines in the photography publishing industry. Previous winning photo equipment from Minolta were the Maxxum 700si (‘94-'95), Maxxum 600si (‘95-'96), Maxxum HTsi (‘98-'99), Minolta Vectis 2000 (2000-2001), Minolta DiMAGE 7 (2001-2002), Maxxum 7 (2001-2002), Minolta DiMAGE X and Maxxum 5 (2002-2003) and DiMAGE Scan Elite 5400 (2003-2004).

About Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc.

Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc., headquartered in Mahwah, NJ, is the North American sales and marketing subsidiary of Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc. (Tokyo, Japan). On August 5, 2003 Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc. was formed to enhance both the competitive business capabilities and earning capacities of Konica Corporation and Minolta Co., Ltd.

Consumers around the world have come to know and trust the Konica and Minolta brands for all their imaging needs. Since the earliest days of the photo industry, Minolta and Konica have applied their talents and resources to create products and services that are essential to the world of imaging. Today, these efforts concentrate on the most important aspects of imaging: the quality of the images, the tools and methods for creating images, and the creation of environments for the application of images.

This focus on the essentials of imaging ties together the company's key business and consumer product lines. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. is a leading manufacturer and marketer of 35mm and Advanced Photo System film, single-use cameras, digital and 35mm film cameras, accessory lenses, binoculars, photographic and color measurement meters. In addition the company offers color print photo papers, inkjet photo paper, digital minilabs, digital film scanners, optical instruments, software and advanced imaging and sensing technologies. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. also provides wholesale photofinishing services and Internet imaging services. It is a complete imaging company, from input through output. For more information about Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc., its products and services, visit www.konicaminolta.us.

All brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Jul 7: 8 Megapixel Digital Camera Comparisons

Digit Life has a very comprehensive comparison of five 8 megapixel cameras. Cameras compared are the

- Canon PowerShot Pro1
- Minolta DIMAGE A2
- Nikon COOLPIX E8700
- Olympus CAMEDIA C-8080 Wide Zoom
- Sony Cyber-shot F828

'An 8Mp matrix in the zoom-lens class is a yet another step forward in digital camera evolution. Before, digital cameras with built-in lenses had lower resolution than reflex ones. Now, one will have to think twice whether to choose 6 Mp with interchangeable lens or 8 Mp with non-interchangeable zooming. It will cost you quite a sum to buy reflex lenses with such range of variable focal length (28-200 or even 35-280 mm), which are, on top of that, made for 8 Mp. These cameras will certainly look inferior to the reflex ones because of a limited range of long exposures and sensitivity, or (which is almost the same) due to high noise level caused by an increased sensitivity and prolonged exposures. The reason for this lies in matrices of a small absolute sensor size (8.8 x 6.6 mm (2/3" standard)), that have been fit into 8 Mp. All reviewed cameras have the same maximal frame size of 3264 x 2448 pixels....'

Found via Photography Blog

Jul 7: Konica Minolta DiMage G530

The Konica Minolta DiMage G530 has a 5 megapixel CCD sensor, a 3x Optical Zoom lens and a 1.5inch LCD Screen.

This is a streamlined looking camera that has dimensions of 93.5 x 55.5 x 26.0 mm and weighs 145 grams.

Images of the Minolta Dimage G530.

Check out the Konica Minolta DiMage's G530 Specifications.

Jul 7: Konica Minolta DiMage X50

The Konica Minolta Dimage X50 has a 5 Megapixel Image Sensor, 2.8x Optical Zoom and fast start up of 0.5 seconds.

Konica Minolta Dimage X50 Specifications

Steve's Digicams reviews the Konica Minolta DiMage X50 and writes ' the DiMAGE X50 will make a good choice for anyone who wants an easy to use, durable, and ultra-compact camera. Its 5-megapixel images have plenty of resolution to create high-quality 8x10-inch or larger prints. With a street price of around $599, it's quite expensive.'

UK/European Readers buy the Minolta Dimage X50

Photography Blog reviews the Konica Minolta DiMage X50 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50 is very much a Jekyll and Hyde camera, with Jekyll representing the excellent handling and ease-of-use and Hyde the poor image quality. I really wanted this camera to deliver great images, as I enjoyed using it so much. Despite the lack of more advanced settings like being able to set the aperture or shutter speed, the speed and simplicity of the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50 is a real attraction. Unfortunately, with the images downloaded and viewed at 100%, the drawbacks of cramming 5 megapixels into such a small form factor and small CCD (1/2.5-type) are revealed.'

CNET reviews the Konica Minolta Dimage X50 and writes - 'Konica Minolta's ever-fashionable X series climbs the resolution ladder with the addition of the 5-megapixel Dimage X50 to its stable of small and swift ultracompacts. And like its siblings, the X50 is a great take-everywhere companion.'

Imaging Resource reviews the Konica Minolta Dimage X50 Digital Camera and writes - 'Ultra-compact digital cameras often seem to involve a lot of compromises and tradeoffs, but the DiMAGE X50 takes very nice photos under a wide range of conditions, and offers a decent range of exposure control (exposure compensation and white balance adjustments). With five megapixels of resolution, it also captures a lot of detail, more than most subcompact digital cameras, but it does fall prey to the problem of short battery life that plagues the category. While it runs seemingly forever in capture mode with the LCD turned off, the so-so accuracy of its optical viewfinder means that you'll have to rely upon the LCD to frame any critical shots, thereby cutting into battery life.'

Press Release from Konica Minolta

Konica Minolta Introduces the DiMAGE X50 Digital Camera
New compact and stylish 5.0 megapixel camera features a large 2.0-inch LCD screen, enhanced speed and other design improvements

Mahwah, NJ (July 7, 2004) - Konica Minolta introduces the new DiMAGE X50 5-megapixel digital camera that takes the DiMAGE X series' concept of "thin, fast and stylish" and adds increased speed. Compact and lightweight enough to take anywhere and stylish enough to show everyone, the DiMAGE X50 adds the fastest-in-class* startup time, 2.8x non-protruding optical zoom, 5-megapixel CCD, and large 2-inch LCD, to a high quality digital camera in a sleek, compact package.

"The idea behind the design of the new DiMAGE X50 digital camera is to make it fast, easy and fun for anyone to take beautiful, high-quality pictures anywhere, anytime," said Jon Sienkiewicz, vice president of marketing, Konica Minolta’s Camera Division. "The camera's 5 megapixel resolution ensures that even amateur photographers can share their casual snapshots as great enlargements."

With its non-protruding zooms lens, the compact Konica Minolta DiMAGE X50 fits neatly in a shirt pocket and is ready in an instant—thanks to the approximately 0.5-second startup time—to take those spur-of-the-moment shots and ensure that users never miss a photo opportunity. The camera’s Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection automatically selects the optimum-shooting mode for the subject at hand, allowing photographers to take beautiful photos that match the needs of the particular photographic scene.

The DiMAGE X50’s 5-megapixel CCD and proprietary Konica Minolta CxProcess™ II image processing technology combine to provide photographers with high quality images— pictures that reproduce the natural colors as faithfully as they see them with their own eyes. The camera’s zoom lens range covers everything from wide-angle shots to close-ups that are clearly focused as near as 4 inches from the subject, without the need to switch to macro mode. If a photographer needs to get even closer, the camera also features a Super Macro mode to take extreme close-ups as near as 2.4 inches.

While still as thin and light as previous X-series Konica Minolta cameras, the new DiMAGE X50 incorporates a larger 2-inch LCD screen with easy-to-view menus for greater ease of operation. And the camera’s new sliding cover protects the lens, so there’s no need to worry about putting the camera inside a pocket or purse.
* As of April 2004, for 3x optical zoom digital cameras.

Jul 7: Konica Minolta Dimage Z10 Review - PhotographyBLOG

The Konica Minolta DiMage Z10 is a digital camera with a 3.2 megapixel sensor, 8x Optical Zoom lens and fast start up and autofocusing. Check out the Konica Minolta Dimage Z10 Specifications.

Pictures of the Minolta Dimage Z10 page

Steve's Digicams reviews the Konica Minolta DiMage Z10 and writes - 'Konica Minolta's DiMAGE Z10 will make a great choice for anyone who wants an affordable "super" zoom, with robust performance, and very good image quality. With its relatively light weight and compact size, you can carry it around all day, without cramping your hand and shoulders like you would encounter with a heavier camera. The 3.2-megapixel images yield beautiful, high-quality 8x10-inch or larger prints. '

Photography Blog reviews the Konica Minolta DiMage Z10 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z10 is an amazing camera at an amazing price which you should go and buy at once - it's as simple as that. Konica Minolta have bucked the trend by designing an entry level camera that will allow your photography skills to flourish as you gain more experience, whilst not being too intimidating for complete beginners. If you are just getting seriously interested in photography and want the immediate feedback of a digital camera without spending too much, the DiMAGE Z10 is the one for you. ' See what rating they gave it.

UK/European Readers buy the Minolta Dimage Z10

Imaging Resource has reviewed the Konica Minolta Dimage Z10 and writes - 'Unfortunately, the Z10 just misses the greatness of other members of the lineup, due to its oversaturated color and somewhat random exposure behavior (although I only encountered the "random exposure" behavior with a single test subject.) If Konica Minolta could just dial down the contrast and color saturation a notch or two, and tighten up exposure control, the Z10 would be a real winner at the low end of the long-zoom market. In fairness, some people like contrasty images and very saturated color.'

DCRP reviews the Konica Minolta DiMage Z10 and writes - 'For those seeking a real bargain in the ultra zoom category, the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z10 is it. You'll have to give up a few things compared to the competition, but overall it's a great camera for the money. You won't find too many cameras with a street price well below $300 that have this many features.

While it doesn't have quite as much zoom power as some other models, the DiMAGE Z10's 8X optical zoom lens is more than adequate for most people. If the 36 mm starting point bothers you, then consider the optional wide-angle conversion lens. The lens is contained within the body at all times which speeds up the startup time dramatically. The camera performs very well in all areas except low light focusing. The camera turns out almost instantly, and focus and shutter lag times are very low. The Z10 offers a full suite of manual controls, including shutter speed, aperture, white balance, and focus. Photo quality is very good, though images may be a little over-sharpened. The Z10's 1 cm macro mode and superb battery life are also hard to beat.'

Pocket Lint has a review of the Konica Minolta Dimage Z10 and writes - 'Better than the previous models, but still not perfect. The length of the lens is good and the camera sure is a fast performer in comparison to its competitors.' Rating: 7

CNET reviews the Konica Minolta Dimage Z10 and writes - 'Konica Minolta's Dimage Z10 is the lowest-end unit in the company's Z series of unusual-looking megazooms. It pairs a 3-megapixel CCD with an 8X zoom lens and offers respectable performance as well as a feature set flexible enough for midlevel photographers. Other Z-series models, past and present, might have bigger zooms, higher-resolution sensors, or antishake stabilization, but the Z10 offers plenty to bargain-hunting megazoom lovers.'

Konica Minolta DiMage Z10 Press Release

Konica Minolta Introduces the 3.2 Megapixel DiMAGE Z10 Digital Camera
Affordable new camera features fastest-in-class startup, 8x Optical “Mega-Zoom,” fast and reliable autofocusing, and energy efficient design

Mahwah, NJ (July 7, 2004) - Konica Minolta introduces an affordable new addition to the Z-series of digital cameras - the DiMAGE Z10. Featuring a fastest-in-class*1 startup time of 0.5 seconds, built-in 8x optical zoom lens, fast and reliable autofocusing with Predictive Focus Control, and an energy efficient design*2 that gives photographers up to 500 frames with the included AA alkaline batteries, the new DiMAGE Z10 is a convenient, fun and easy to use digital camera.

"The affordable new DiMAGE Z10 has been designed to bring high-quality digital photography into the daily lives of novice and advanced amateur photographers," said Jon Sienkiewicz, vice president of marketing, Konica Minolta’s Camera Division. "Photographers carrying the DiMAGE Z10 with them will have a reliable digital camera to capture those everyday photographic moments exactly as they see them occur."

The Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z10’s built-in 8x optical Mega Zoom lens and 4x digital zoom combine for a total 32x zoom, allowing photographers to capture everything from sporting events to panoramic scenery. The camera’s optical lens system consists of 11 elements in nine groups and includes two aspheric lens elements, for sharp, high-quality images. The DiMAGE Z10 combines a 3.2-megapixel primary-color CCD with Konica Minolta’s proprietary CxProcess™ II image processing technology for pictures that appear exactly the way they are seen.

The DiMAGE Z10’s Rapid Autofocus (AF) combines a passive AF sensor with the video AF system, giving a fast focusing time of approximately 0.3 second in both wide-angle and telephoto positions. The Rapid AF also has Predictive Focus Control that predicts where a moving subject is heading and focuses accordingly. To round out the list of quick-response features, the DiMAGE Z10 has the fastest startup in its class*1 (0.5 seconds), a minimum shutter-release time lag, and continuous shooting.

Not only is the DiMAGE Z10 a sprinter with its fast startup, it’s also a marathon champ with power efficiency that allows photographers to take up to approximately 500 frames with the four included AA alkaline batteries. This is more shots than any other digital camera with built-in flash running on AA alkaline batteries*2.

In addition, the DiMAGE Z10 has a Macro mode that allows photographers to get as close as 0.4 inches from their subject. This allows photographers to capture the smallest objects— such as flowers, insects, or jewelry—with the greatest detail.

The DiMAGE Z10 sports a new, high-tech design. Despite its large 8x optical zoom capability, it weighs just approximately 10.6 ounces. The camera’s ergonomic design provides users with a comfortable grip while its intuitive control button layout allows even amateur photographers to start enjoying digital photography in no time at all.

*1 Approximately 0.5 second, from when main switch is turned on until LCD monitor comes on. As of May 20, 2004, for digital cameras with 8x or greater zoom.
*2 Up to approximately 500 frames with the four included AA alkaline batteries. Based on Konica Minolta’s standard test method and compliant with the CIPA standard, with included AA alkaline batteries and included SD Memory Card.
As of May 20, 2004, for digital cameras with built-in flash running on AA alkaline batteries.
*3 PictBridge is an industry standard established by the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA).

Jul 7: Minolta Dimage Z3

The Konica Minolta Dimage Z3 is a digital camera with a 4.0 megapixel CCD sensor and a 12x Optical Zoom lens.

The Z3 measures 108.5 x 80 x 83.5 mm and weighs and 335 grams.

Photo Hobby has a hands on preview of the Z3 and writes:

UK/European Readers buy the Minolta Dimage Z3

'- Overall construction is much improved. Less plasticky fell than Z2 even still made from plastic.
- The new EVF/LCD combo works much better than the switch finder, no more mirror slap feel.
- Handling is ergonomically better. Access to all buttons still the same since layout is similar to Z2
- Swift operation, even faster than Z2. The new silent zoom work much better with smoother and quite whisper than the old Z.'

Check out the Minolta Dimage Z3's specifications.

AnandTech has a detailed comparison between the Minolta Dimage Z3 and the Minolta Dimage Z2.

Megapixel reviews the Konica Minolta Dimage Z3 and writes - 'While it may have design traits from previous Z models, the Konica Minolta Z3 is a completely re-engineered camera that incorporates the anti-shake technology of the A-series cameras, and blends it with a new 12X GT optical zoom.

Two earlier versions of this camera (DiMAGE Z1 and DiMAGE Z2) were equipped with a Switch Finder, a system that uses a single LCD screen that can be tilted back internally and reflected through the viewfinder's eyepiece so as to be like an electronic viewfinder (EVF). The DiMAGE Z3 however, has a separate EVF and a 1.5 inch LCD monitor.'

Digicam Review reviews the Konica Minolta Dimage Z3 and writes - 'his 4mp digital camera has a large 12x Optical zoom lens with Konica Minolta's Anti-Shake technology, VGA recording lets you use the zoom with sound, and it's got an impressive super macro mode. It's features are very impressive, the design, handling and speed on the camera are also impressive. The only problem is that image quality (white balance, saturation, exposure etc) is a bit hit and miss - sometimes you get a great photo, but more often than not you will need to edit the photo in something like Adobe Photoshop to get the best out of it. Purple fringing is very low, which is impressive for a camera with such zoom power. '

DCRP reviews the Konica Minolta Dimage Z3 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 is a good ultra zoom camera that could be better. Panasonic still has the lead in this market, in my opinion. The Z3 has a 12X optical zoom lens, which is as big as they come. It's not as "fast" as the lenses on Panasonic's cameras but it's competitive with other ultra zooms. Minolta's Anti-shake system works to reduce the effects of "camera shake" in both stills and movies. The camera offers a full suite of manual controls and it has a first-rate movie mode as well. In good light, the Z3's autofocus speeds are stunning -- this is one of the fastest-focusing cameras I've seen. The Z3 has a hot shoe for an external flash (Minolta brand only) and also supports a wide-angle conversion lens. While small and low resolution, the EVF and LCD on the camera "gain up" in low light, so you can see what you're looking at. The Z3's body is easy to hold and everything's in the right place.'

Imaging Resource reivews the Konica Minolta Z3 and writes - 'With its 12x optical zoom lens, full range of exposure control, fairly compact size, and excellent movie- and continuous-capture modes, the DiMAGE Z3 is a full-featured yet surprisingly affordable long-zoom digicam. Though the camera features full manual exposure control, its simplified user interface and available automatic and "scene" modes make it very approachable for less-experienced novices who want to gradually learn more about digital photography.'

Pocket Lint reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 and writes - 'Although the design is akin to a chopped off Tie Fighter from the Star Wars movies, it’s great to hold and the camera is easy to use. Metering, image quality and Anti Shake work well and provide an all-round excellent package from Konica Minolta featuring a long-zoom lens able to get close then closer still. A cracker.'

Byte Sector reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 and writes - 'This camera is not too different from the Z2 model; it does deliver a fair bit of purple fringe but the pink hue distortion that I saw in the Z2 does appear to be corrected. I think it would help if Konica Minolta provided rechargeable batteries and a charger with their camera; all the Olympus cameras I have tested have been packaged with such goodies and since this uses up batteries like there is no tomorrow, it would be a very welcome addition. Image quality is good if you know what settings to use at what time, but for strict automatic point and shoot situations I don't think this is the best performing camera. I believe you need to be an intermediate or slightly experienced photographer to get the best out of this camera.'

eDigitalPhoto reviews the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 and writes - 'At a street price of $499, the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 offers exceptional value, considering its powerful high-grade lens, Anti-Shake function, superb autofocus system, advanced image processor and great versatility. The combination will especially appeal to those who want to shoot sports, wildlife, and stage performances without using a tripod. If you fall into that category, and if you cannot justify the higher price of a digital SLR plus a long zoom lens with image stabilizer, this DiMAGE camera may be a suitable alternative.'

PC Mag reviews the Konica Minolta DiMage Z3 and writes - 'Exposure is good and there is no significant purple fringing or noise at ISO 50 or 100, but there are no sharp, well-defined edges in the picture. Our flash test shot, although evenly illuminated, is dull and muddy, but without the orange color shift seen on the daylight picture. Noise is significant at ISO 100 and above, especially in dark and shadowy areas. And though the image overall is marginally sharper than the daylight picture, edges aren't well defined.'

Konica Minolta Z3 Press Release

Konica Minolta Introduces the DiMAGE Z3 High-Performance 4.0 Megapixel Digital Camera

New digital camera with built-in 12x optical "Mega Zoom" lens is the first Z-series camera to feature Konica Minolta’s CCD-Shift Anti-Shake System

Mahwah, NJ (July 7, 2004) - Konica Minolta introduces a new addition to the Z-series of digital cameras - the DiMAGE Z3. With Konica Minolta’s unique CCD-shift Anti-Shake System accompanying the camera’s built-in 12x optical zoom lens, the stylish DiMAGE Z3 provides photographers of all levels with very steady and sharp hand-held telephoto shots. Its speed also enables photographers to get those action shots right away with Rapid Autofocus (AF) – the fastest auto focus in its class*1. The camera’s AF also has a Predictive Focus Control for unmatched high-speed focusing that brings out the very best in the DiMAGE Z3's superior ability to capture fast moving subjects.

"Photographers will never miss a shot with the new DiMAGE Z3," said Jon Sienkiewicz, vice president of marketing, Konica Minolta’s Camera Division. "With combined functions such as the Anti-Shake System, Rapid Autofocus capabilities, and 12x optical zoom lens, this digital camera provides advanced amateur as well as serious photographers with the versatility and reliability they need to get the shot right the first time."

Previously a function found only on the high-end Konica Minolta DiMAGE A-series digital cameras, the Konica Minolta CCD-shift Anti-Shake System is now available for the first time in the Z-series of DiMAGE cameras. This system compensates to minimize the effect of camera shake at 2-3 shutter speeds slower than on cameras without an Anti-Shake function*2 (equivalent to 2-3 exposure increments).

For hand-held dim light photography and telephoto shots, both of which are susceptible to the effects of camera shake because of their slow shutter speeds, photographers can now get steady, blur-free images without the use of a flash or tripod. Unlike an optical system, Konica Minolta’s proprietary Anti-Shake System uses a unique CCD-shift mechanism. This keeps the lens compact and the camera lightweight.

The new DiMAGE Z3 features a 12x optical Mega Zoom lens, which can be combined with the camera’s 4x digital zoom for up to 48x total zoom capability. The DiMAGE Z3’s newly developed GT APO lens offers strikingly clear, high-contrast, high-resolution images thanks to Konica Minolta’s G lens optical technology. The AD (anomalous dispersion) glass and two aspheric lens elements help the DiMAGE Z3 correct spherical aberration and curvilinear distortion, factors that can cause problems at high zoom ranges. The advanced, high-sensitivity 4-megapixel CCD combines with Konica Minolta’s proprietary CxProcess™ II technology to give photographers images as beautiful as those they see with their own eyes.

The DiMAGE Z3 incorporates an AF-dedicated ASIC to video AF system for focusing, enabling its Rapid AF to focus faster than previous models. Focusing time is approximately 0.15 second in wide-angle position and approximately 0.2 second in telephoto position. The DiMAGE Z3 also boasts a fast startup speed, a real motion monitor with 50-frames-per-second capability for smooth video viewing, minimal shutter-release time lag, and continuous shooting at 2.2 frames per second.

The DiMAGE Z3’s movie recording function allows users to take high-resolution movies that are as beautiful as TV programs or footage taken with a video camera. In addition to the VGA-size (640 x 480 Standard) mode that captures movies at 30 frames per second, Konica Minolta has added a new, high-quality-image Fine mode (640 x 480 Fine). The Silent Zoom feature employs a newly developed Silent Zoom mechanism that greatly reduces how much noise from the optical zoom is picked up while shooting movies with sound.

Despite its large 12x zoom, the Z3 sports a light, compact body whose design evokes a modern, cosmopolitan image. The Z3’s ergonomic grip makes it easy and comfortable to carry around and its large, intuitive operation section keeps you in control at all times.

*1 As of May 20, 2004, for digital cameras with built-in lens system and 10X or greater zoom.
*2 Depends on the shooting conditions.

Jul 7: New Konica Minolta Dimage Cameras - Leaked Pictures

We've just had news emailed to us in the last few minutes that Minolta are readying themselves to announce four brand new Dimage Digital Cameras. They are the:

• Konica Minolta Dimage Z3
• Konica Minolta Dimage G530
• Konica Minolta Dimage X50
• Konica Minolta Dimage Z10

PC Home (a Japanese site) seem to have broken the news by posting photos and pictures on their site. Get images at the following links - Konica Minolta Dimage Z3 - and another Z3 Page - Konica Minolta Dimage G530 - Konica Minolta Dimage X50 - Konica Minolta Dimage Z10.

Jul 7: New Reviews

This week we've updated the following cameras review pages with the latest reviews from around the web:

- Kodak DSC Pro SLR/c
- Olympus C-60 Zoom
- Sony DSC P100
- Nikon Coolpix 5200
- HP Photosmark R707
- Canon Powershot S500
- Canon Powershot S60
- Olympus C770 Movie
- Olympus C360
- Olympus C8080

Jul 7: Samsung Digimax U-CA3 - PC Mag Review

PC Mag has a review of the Samsun Digimax U-CA3

'The Samsung Digimax U-CA3 is a 3.2-megapixel point-and-shoot compact digital camera that will appeal to kids. Clearly marketed to the bubblegum set, this soap-bar-shaped camera comes with rainbow-colored blinking "disco" lights on the front.

Youth appeal is also reflected in the camera's animated 3D avatar start-up screen. The U-CA3 is bundled with nCubic's DigiStudio, which lets you create and embellish your own 3D avatar using photos taken with the camera. The price also seems to be in line with teen budgets, but it doesn't include a battery (the camera takes CP1 lithium batteries), charger (one is available separately), or memory card. If you want more camera for less money, there are better choices, such as the 4MP Concord Eye-Q 4360z for $200.' Via Engadget

Jul 6: Digital Workflow Experience

Web Aperture has a good article that gives an insight into the Digital Workflow Experience of one particular digital photographer.

'Digital photography opens up a lot of new opportunities but also new challenges to overcome. The most important element is storage. I found that with a digital SLR, my shooting rate went up quite a bit. In many of my travels, i usually estimate somewhere in the region of 1.5 rolls of film per day. I'm sure many professionals will bring much more but each one to their own shooting style. On travels, you have days where you're on the road or on a plane so on those days, you won't expect to go through a full roll of film. Of course your mileage will vary and personal shooting style will affect how much you will shoot.

With Digital however, I was averaging roughly a hundred plus frames daily. This doesn't include my point and shoot digital camera which adds another ten or twenty shots. This works out to an equivalent of four rolls a day. Handling and keeping these photos becomes important. On my first digital outing, I went with my notebook PC and Breeze systems Breeze Browser and Downloader Pro.'

Found via Photography Blog

Jul 6: LG Electronics to Enter Digital Camera Market

I missed this article a few days back but just stumbled upon it while surfing tonight.

'LG Electronics will advance into the market for digital cameras, which is notably developing. The spokesman for the firm ssaid, "We decided to enter into the digital camera market after internal considerations and hope to launch new models by the third quarter."

Therefore, LG Electronics will launch its new 3.0 to 4.0-mega pixel digital cameras during the third quarter and it will export them as one of the LG brands, even though the firm is planning to concentrate more on the Korean market....

According to LG Electronics, "Digital convergence is rapidly progressing these days, especially in core industrial sectors like mobile phones, displays, PDAs and telemetics. Without a doubt, the technical part of digital cameras was the key to the convergence and eventually led us to start the new business."

In addition, LG Electronics does not have a camera-producing line so they will only take part in the lay out and design, while a Taiwanese firm will be responsible for the production.' Source - LG Electronics Advances Into Digital Camera Market

Jul 5: Ten Tips to Improve your Photographic Technique

Better Photo has some great photographic tips and tutorials on their site on a huge array of topics.

Ten Tips to Improve Photographic Technique is a worthwhile one to check out even if you've just got a few minutes up your sleeve before taking your digital camera out next time. The tips are simple and things that most of us have probably heard of, but they work and are good reminders.

Jul 4: Canon Powershot S1 IS Review

The Canon Powershot S1 IS was announced by Canon in February 2004 and hit stores at the beginning of March. The S1 retails in Australia for approximately AU$979 and in the US for around US$429.

Since its release I have been keen to get my hands on a Canon S1 IS as it is an interesting direction for Canon to take - producing a digital camera with a 3.2 Megapixel CCD Sensor and a 10x Optical Zoom Lens. I have to admit that when I first heard about the S1 I thought it was a strange combination to put a fairly average sized sensor with such a large lens - but having tested extensively this week I'm happy to report that it works.

First Impressions

On taking the Canon S1 IS out of the box the first thought to go through my mind was that this was a little larger 'compact' digital camera than my Canon

Powershot A70, the S1 is definitely a step up in size measuring in at 111 x 78 x 66.1mm (not including viewfinder and protrusions according to Canon) and weighing approximately 370g (without batteries or card). In short - you definitely know that you've got a Canon S1 IS in your pocket but it is still manageable and worth the extra grams and millimeters for the zoom it has.

The S1 IS is a camera that sits nicely in the hand with a good sized and rounded grip and most controls in easy to reach positions. The 1.5 inch LCD screen seems a little small on a camera this size but the swivel feature is handy. The same information as is shown on the LCD is also available for display on the Electronic View Finder.

On switching on the S1 (start up seems to take around 4 seconds) I immediately found myself reaching for the zoom controls to test this whopping 10x optical zoom that I'd heard so much about. My initial reaction was one of admiration - at 10x zoom I soon had a very close shot of my wife's nose despite the fact that she was on the other side of the room - the effect was impressive. Also of note was the speed at which the Canon Powershot S1 IS zooms - in comparison to other cameras that I've tested this was a very quick and quiet camera. It is worth noting that the S1's lens is made with 11 elements in 9 groups and includes an aspherical element to reduce size and weight. The lens itself folds away very nicely and rather compactly into the rest of the camera when not in use.

The other thing that quickly became apparent to me was that there were quite a few buttons and controls on this camera. In comparison to my trusty old A70 the back of this camera looks like something out of a boeing 747 cockpit. Controls were clearly marked however and I soon got the hang of flying the S1 IS.

The Canon Powershot S1 IS is a camera that is reasonably accessible for all users both those starting out in digital photography who want to shoot on fully automatic mode and those who are more experienced and want more control in using Shutter-Speed priority AE, Program AE, Aperture-priority AE, Stitch-assist, and Manual exposure and focussing modes.

Specifications

The Canon Powershot S1 IS has a long list of specifications including some of the following:

• 3-Megapixel CCD offers 2048 x 1536 pixel resolution
• Canon 10x Optical zoom with Image Stabilization - (38-380mm 35mm equivalent)
• Fast f/2.8-3.1 aperture, and Ultrasonic Motor for quick zooming
• Vari-angle 1.5-inch color LCD - swings 180° and rotates 270° for angled shooting
• Program AE, Shutter-priority, Aperture-priority, full Manual
• Image zone modes: Portrait, Landscape, Night scene and Stitch assist
• Interval shooting and Exposure and Focus Bracketing
• Close focus to 3.9 inches (no separate Macro Mode)
• Movie mode w/sound, 640x480Fine, 640x480 or 320x240, 30fps or 15fps
• Shutter speeds from 15 secs to 1/2000 sec in Manual mode
• High-speed 1.7 frames per second continuous shooting
• Up to 60-second sound memos for still images
• Evaluative, Center-weighted average or Spot (Center or AF-point)

• Adjustable Sharpness, Contrast and Saturation
• Built-in pop up flash with Auto, Fill, Red-eye reduction and Slow-sync modes
• ISO: 50, 100, 200, 400 or AUTO
• CompactFlash Type II slot, Compatible with Microdrive 32-bit FAT support
• Powered by four AA type batteries
• PictBridge and Canon Direct Print compatible

Other Features

The Canon Powershot S1 IS is more than its 10x Optical Zoom lens - in fact it has a few other very worthwhile features.

Movie Mode - During my week of reviewing the S1 IS I spent one afternoon experimenting with the excellent movie mode which allows recording of video at 640 x 480 resolution at 30 frames per second. Coupled with my Apple ibook I soon had a quality mini movie that impressed all of those who I showed. Whilst still not as high a resolution as Mini-DV cameras the S1 definitely takes another step forward in blurring the lines between digital still and video devices.

Image Stabiliser - Much has been written about the Canon S1 IS's image stabiliser which is an important feature on this camera. Image stabilisation is likely to become a more and more common feature on digital cameras in the years ahead - especially on cameras with zooms of this size. On a cameras with 3x Optical zoom one can get away with out stabilisation but with the zoom fully extended to 10x camera shake definitely comes into play. It will also be useful in low light (and longer exposure) hand held shooting.

Design

The Canon Powershot S1 IS has a rather plastic look and feel to it however as already mentioned has a solid feel to it. The camera itself is well balanced and sits in the hand quite comfortably.

The majority of the S1's controls are easily reachable by using the thumb and index finger of it's user's right hand. The shutter release and zoom controls are situated on top of the right hand side of the camera in a fairly 'normal' position for a Canon digital camera. Shooting modes (Portrait, Landscape, Night Scene, Fast Shutter, Slow Shutter, Stitch Assist (Panorama), Movie as well as Program mode (Auto), aperture priority, shutter priority, manual mode and custom mode) are controlled by a dial on top of the camera (similar to that found on most other Powershot models). This dial is situated beside a switch that turns the camera on (to either shooting or viewing mode) and off. This switch is a little tricky to get the hang of but aims to ensure that the camera is not accidentally turned on in its case.

On the back of the S1 are a total of 8 buttons which control a variety of functions. If I was to have one complaint against this camera it would be the confusion caused by this set up. I asked the opinion of a beginner digital photographer in reviewing this camera and their main criticism was that they found navigating the menu systems very difficult - even on sitting down with the manual. I'm sure that with time operating this camera would become second nature to most users, but I'm left wondering why Canon took this approach. These controls include a Movie Mode shutter button (handy to have it separate from the normal shutter release - although it took me a while to get used to). Under the movie shutter release is a function button for accessing menus for ISO, White Balance, Effects, Flash Controls, Bracketing, Image Size etc. This button also functions as a 'delete' control in playback mode.

Under this is a Metering mode button, a short cut button (programmable to change image size, ISO, effects etc) and a display button to switch between LCD and EVF.

To the right of this is a 4 way control that allow for navigating menus and pictures in playback mode. It also control Exposure Compensation and White Balance in record mode.

Under this 4 way control are the 'Set' (selects items in menus) and 'Menu' (calls up a variety of camera settings such as self timer, digital zoom etc) buttons.

On the left hand side of the lens are two buttons that turn on and off Manual Focus and the Image Stabiliser. On the top on the left hand side are a further two buttons for controlling the flash, self timer and bracketing.

Three ports are assessible on the back of the camera under the LCD that allow DC INput for an optional AC adapter, a USB 1.1 data port and an A/V output port.

Batteries (4 AA batteries) are accessed underneath the camera (I'd recommend investing in some rechargeable ones - mine lasted well) and there is a slot for the memory card (Compact Flash I and II and Microdrive) behind a door in the grip on the right end of the camera.

One other small gripe with this camera was that both the LCD and EVF freeze during auto focusing which makes shooting a moving subject a real challenge. This brings some guess work to the art of sports photography.

Image Quality

I found the image quality of the many shots I took on the Canon Powershot S1 IS to be very good using a variety of settings. Images were generally sharply focused and well exposed in a variety of lighting condidtions.

I did notice a small amount of barrel distortion at the widest angle zoom settings and at the other end of the zoom there was some chromatic aberration (purple fringing) which is often a problem for cameras with large zooms like this. Colors were well represented and noise levels were reasonable for a camera in its class - although things get a little noisy at 200 ISO or over.

In well lit situations and at the wide angle end of its zoom focusing was reasonably fast but in low light and at the telephoto end of its zoom the S1 did struggle a little to lock onto subjects quickly. Canon has chosen not to equip this camera with an AF assist lamp which may contribute to its struggle in this area. Shutter Lag was reasonable as was time between shots.

The Canon S1 IS only allows users to shoot JPEGs which is a pity as with my 1GB CF card an option of shooting in RAW would have been good. However Shooting on the superfine setting did produce excellent results.

In My Humble Opinion

If you're looking for a quality mid-range digital camera that helps you to get in close to the action Canon Powershot S1 IS is a camera that you should consider. Its 10x Optical Zoom complete with Image Stabiliser is in a class of its own and quite remarkable when you consider the price of this camera.

What I like about the Canon Powershot S1 IS:

• 10x Optical Zoom with Image Stabiliser
• Very Good Image Quality
• Excellent Movie Mode
• Fast and Quiet Zoom
• Comprehensive Features
• Swivel LCD

What I didn't like about the Canon Powershot S1 IS:

• Complicated Controls Layout
• Some Low Light and Telephoto Focusing Issues
• Some lens barreling and Purple Fringing
• Only JPEG format
• Small LCD
• Auto Focussing Freezes LCD and EVF

Overall the Canon Powershot S1 IS is a camera worth considering. I've enjoyed my week with it and will be sad to send it back to Canon.

I'm interested to see if this is a sign of things to come from Canon and eagerly await news of a S2 or S3 model. The obvious way to improve the S1 would be to add a higher resolution sensor. A 4 or 5 megapixel camera with a 10x Optical Zoom would be a camera that would definitely impress.

See what others have written in their reviews of the Canon Powershot S1 IS

Jul 3: Trackback SPAM

To the person who is attempting to spam this site using 'trackback'. Please cease doing so as you are wasting not only my time but your own. Your links are deleted within minutes of going on my site as I have an automated notification system. You will not succeed in boosting your site through my blog. give up.

Jul 3: Photographing Fireworks

Photography Blog has a great 'tips collection' on how to take good photographs of Fireworks. Should be useful for those of you that live in parts of the world that celebrate 4th July.

Also check out Digital Photography School for more free Digital Camera Tips on All Topics.

Jul 2: Kodak Mobile Service

Kodak Press Release
Kodak Monthly Tech Brief Explores How Camera Phone Users Go Mobile With Their Pictures

ROCHESTER, N.Y., July 1 -- Digital photography has made computer based slideshows and photo sharing a reality for millions of consumers. Now, Kodak is giving consumers a new service that brings these features to their mobile phones.

Kodak's Monthly Tech Brief explores how the advent of new imaging-enabled mobile phones that include web access (and, in more recent higher-end versions, also include a one-megapixel camera), coupled with online and mobile picture services, will give consumers new ways to access their pictures and share individual images, slideshows, and online photo albums, without relying on desktop or laptop computers.

The KODAK Mobile Service offers mobile phone users anytime, anywhere access to all of their digital photos and phone-captured video. Consumers can now browse and download appropriately sized versions of full-size digital pictures from their online albums. In the future, they will be able to personalize their handsets with wallpaper of their favorite images. Building upon the multimedia messaging service (MMS) capability in most new phones, users of the KODAK Mobile Service can also access picture uploading and sharing services directly from their phones.

In addition, many KODAK Picture Maker kiosks at retail locations are equipped with mobile printing capabilities and five-second printing with superior KODAK PERFECT TOUCH premium processing.

To achieve this range of functions and features, Kodak researchers have built applications to work with the major handset platforms covering a wide range of wireless phone brands and models. These applications can integrate with the different carrier networks that route messages between mobile handsets and the KODAK Mobile Service web site.

Learn more about the expanded capabilities in the works for wireless camera phones at www.kodak.com/go/researchwww.kodak.com/go/research.

Jul 2: Epson Stylus CX660 Printer

Bios Magazine reviews the Epson Stylus CX600 and writes - 'Overall, the Stylus CX6600 is a fantastic value offering that should satisfy all but digital photographers looking for a high-end imaging solution. Regular home users, or even small businesses, should welcome the printer's performance and robustness. It's a real shame the unit's on-screen interface is unintuitive, the buttons aren't clearly labelled and there's no built-in fax, otherwise the Stylus CX6600 would have been given our Editors' Choice Award.'

Epson Press Release
EPSON delivers a flexible All-in-One with new features ideal for both the home and small office

The EPSON Stylus CX6600 is a new All-in-One designed to improve the quality and cost efficiency of home and small office printing. It combines high-speed inkjet printing, scanning and photocopying with the flexibility of a memory card reader and the quality of EPSON DURABrite inks.

July 2004 - The EPSON Stylus CX6600 is EPSON's most advanced general-purpose All-in-One inkjet device. The new product benefits from EPSON's latest PhotoQuicker 3.5 and EPSON Web-To-Page software. PhotoQuicker 3.5 allows users to modify and print photos more easily, while Web-To-Page software allows web pages to be automatically condensed to paper size, so the printed version reflects what users see on screen.

Demand continues to grow for these devices as IDC analysts predict that the market will reach around 12 million units by 2007. This is because individuals, whether they are in the home or the office, are demanding high-speed printing, high resolution scanning at cost-effective prices. The new EPSON Stylus CX6600 is aimed at the user who wants the cost effectiveness of individual ink cartridges together with the ability to print and scan general-purpose documents with the convenience of memory card storage and occasional photo printing. These functions together with the advanced photocopying features ensure that this product is especially attractive to business users as well as for home use.

Richard Baylis, Sales and Marketing Manager, Consumer Products says, “This new stand alone solution is aimed at the home/small office user who wishes to have advanced functionality and performance in an attractive All-in-One device. The product makes it easy to scan, copy and print a wide variety of documents from everyday correspondence to photographs. We believe the market now demands sophisticated All-in-One devices that deliver both cost and space saving benefits without compromising functionality, and this product is ideally placed to meet these needs.”

The EPSON Stylus CX6600 offers outstanding print performance at speeds of up to 22 pages per minute and resolutions of up to 5760 optimised DPI. The printing function utilises a four ink system based upon EPSON’s Micro Piezo print and EPSON DURABrite Ink. The popular DURABrite Inks gives outstanding plain paper results as well as bright, long-lasting photographs. It also ensures smudge resistance and water fastness, the inks will not run when wet, even if water is spilt on the paper directly after printing. The DURABrite Inks are supplied in separate ink cartridges, which gives the cost benefits the consumer desires.

The EPSON Stylus CX6600 includes a high-quality 1200 x 2400 dpi scanner, which caters for all types of scanning from simple scanned documents up to high-resolution photographs producing very sharp results. When used in conjunction with EPSON Smart Panel, the user can send the result via email, save to file or perform a number of other functions. The New EPSON Scan software also allows the user to perform colour restoration on old and faded photographs.

The EPSON Stylus CX6600 will perform full colour or black and white photocopying from a simple, single button push on the front control panel. The user can also specify the type and size of media used and the quality of output desired from draft, text, image and best. In addition the device offers direct support for 9 different types of memory card. Images can be printed directly from the memory card, and scanned documents can be stored on the memory card without the need to use a computer.

EPSON Stylus CX6600 Features summary
- All-in-One printer, scanner and photocopier with memory card reader
- Individual ink cartridges for cost-effective printing
- EPSON DURABrite™ inks for smudge proof, water and fade resistant prints
- Excellent print quality up to 5760dpi
- Superior 1200 x 2400 dpi scanner for sharp results
- EPSON Web-To-Page software for web printing
- Standalone photocopying with no need for a computer
- Easy to use control panel with intuitive icons
- Compatible with 9 different types of memory card (up to 11 with correct adapter)
- Print from and save to digital memory card
- Achieve documents to a digital memory card
- Restore faded photographs with EPSON Scan software
Borderless printing and photocopying

Jul 2: Epson Perfection 2480 Scanner

Epson Press Release
EPSON brings effortless and easy film scanning to the home

EPSON launches the EPSON Perfection 2480 Photo featuring amazing one-touch photo restoration from this 2400dpi film and photo scanner

1st July 2004: The Perfection 2480 Photo provides excellent features and high specifications at an entry-level price. This model will be the natural successor to the EPSON Perfection 1670 and EPSON Perfection 1670 Photo. The new scanner is targeted at home users who want to scan film at home but may be daunted by the prospect. The scanner has been designed with this in mind and ease of use is a key feature.

Richard Baylis, Sales and Marketing Manager, Consumer Products says, "This new scanner offer users a high resolution, improved photo restoration and fast film scanning. At the same time, we have ensured that it is incredibly easy to use, film negatives can be easily scanned to make high quality enlargements at home."

The EPSON Perfection 2480 Photo is aimed at home users that require an all-round scanner that can handle high-definition images as well as 35mm film. The scanner captures detail at an impressive 2400 x 4800 dpi, which allows users to create photo-quality A3 prints from 35mm film. In addition, the device includes a built-in film adapter for digitising positive and negative film, removing the need for a separate film scanner. The user can restore precious memories with the built-in colour restoration and dust removal features, old film and photographs can be returned to bright, colourful prints.

EPSON Perfection 2480 Photo Features Summary
- High resolution (2400 x 4800 dpi) for picking up minute detail and creating up to A3 prints from 35mm film
- Colour restoration and dust removal features for repairing old and faded photos
- Built-in film adapter for digitising and archiving positive and negative 35mm film
- Standard USB 2.0 hi-speed interface offers incredibly fast scanning whilst maintaining compatibility with standard USB 1.1
- Optional Multi Photo Feeder available for even easier 10” x 15” photo scanning

Award winning software bundle including:
- The latest version of the EPSON scan application
- ArcSoft PhotoImpression™ 5 photo creativity software
- ABBYY FineReader 5 Sprint OCR software
- Simple one-click, scan to email, scan to web, scan and save and copy tools

Jul 1: Does the digital camera change how people act in front of and behind the lens?

The Big Picture asks the interesting question - 'Does the digital camera change how people act in front of and behind the lens?'

'I would like to take a chance and speculate that the digital camera changes the nature of photographic behavior. It changes the way people act in front of the camera as well as behind the lens....

The most intriguing aspect of photographic behavior using digital technology is the potential democratization of the image-making process. With the digital camera, the photographer's behavior can allow for the possibility of increased collaboration and participation in the final product -- one that emphasizes and ehances communication between people'

Jul 1: Digital Photography Pocket Guide, 2nd ed. Review

Meryl.net has a good brief review of 'Digital Photography Pocket Guide, 2nd ed.'

'It has three simple chapters with quick reference tables in the back of the book. It’s small enough to fit into your camera bag, laptop case, briefcase, suitcase, or jacket pocket. The chapters address What is it? What do I do? and How do I? questions.'

Jul 1: Near Infared Digital Photography Tips

Near Infrared Digital Photography is a tutorial that will 'take you through all of the steps necessary to procure and manipulate near infrared photographs through the use of a digital camera (or camcorder).'

'nfrared photography has been around for at least 70 years, but until recently has not been easily accessible to those not versed in traditional photographic processes. Since the charge-coupled devices (CCDs) used in digital cameras and camcorders are sensitive to near-infrared light, they can be used to capture infrared photos. With a filter that blocks out all visible light (also frequently called a "cold mirror" filter), most modern digital cameras and camcorders can capture photographs in infrared. In addition, they have LCD screens, which can be used to preview the resulting image in real-time, a tool unavailable in traditional photography without using filters that allow some visible (red) light through.'

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