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Canon Press Release
Canon Captures Number One Digital Camera Position for Fourth Straight Month; Launches New Integrated Marketing Campaign
With Ongoing Focus on Consumer Education, Canon Drives Toward Holiday Season with New Products, Incentives and Sequel to Award-Winning Digic Advertising Campaign
On the heels of four straight months in the U.S. as the number one(a) digital camera manufacturer with no signs of slowing down, Canon today introduced a new integrated marketing campaign surrounding its PowerShot digital camera line. Highlighted by a multi-million dollar advertising execution, the campaign includes new television and print ads that focus on the benefits of Canon's proprietary DIGIC image processor, retail incentives, sponsorships and events, and recently launched compact digital cameras that delivers style and excellent image quality to consumers.
"We have achieved number one position based on our combination of superior imaging technology, features designed to meet consumers photographic needs and stylish product designs that fit into peoples' lifestyle," 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). "As a result of our dedication to photographic excellence, Canon has now sold more than 10 million PowerShot Digital ELPH cameras worldwide. Our first digital ELPH cameras were released in April of 2000 and the 10 millionth unit sold on Oct. 1, 2004. We're extremely proud of this achievement, and understand what it took to get us to this point, and more importantly, what it will take to get Canon to the next level."
Canon and DIGIC Lead The Market
Canon's new commercials focus on color, with images of everyday life displayed in natural settings that come to life within a digital picture. The campaign communicates that only Canon PowerShot digital cameras have DIGIC, the digital brain that provides vibrant colors for more beautiful pictures.
In one spot--featuring the Canon Digital ELPH camera--a boy has fun in a swimming pool, a young woman playfully throws a pillow as her picture is taken, and a teenage couple sits on a beach. In the second adaptation of the commercial, featuring the PowerShot A75 digital camera, a young girl gazes at the camera, a grandfather shares a birthday moment with his little grandson, and a mountain biker proudly surveys the view from atop a mountain he has just conquered. Between each picture, an attention-grabbing surge of colors leaps across the screen to form the next photographic vignette. These captivating, colorfully vibrant vignettes and multi-hued, eye-catching transitions illustrate the vibrant colors that only Canon digital cameras can provide.
Canon and DCA Advertising, received industry accolades last year as it introduced a unique education campaign that leveraged the Canon DIGIC image processor. The campaign, which won a Bronze EFFIE award in the Consumer Electronics category, helped the brand differentiate itself from other names in the competitive consumer arena.
"We launched this campaign to further educate customers so they will recognize DIGIC technology as an indication of quality inside the camera," said Rick Booth, director of marketing services/advertising for Canon's consumer imaging group. "Great pictures are comprised of more than just megapixels and zooms. Because your photos are so important, you deserve a camera that can capture more vivid colors for better pictures. "
"Our research showed that we really made an impact in terms of differentiating ourselves from the other brands out there, most of whom were focusing their message on specific features or output," said Michelle Fernandez, assistant marketing manager of Canon's consumer imaging group. "Color is one of if not the most important aspect for consumers, whether they are capturing, printing or sharing digital images. Our new campaign, along with fashionable products, superior technology and unique marketing relationships, gives us every reason to be confident that this holiday season will be even better than the last."
This ongoing effort has enabled Canon to sustain its leadership status and positions the company for further growth heading into the critical holiday buying season - a season where many consumers will purchase digital cameras for the first time or look to upgrade from older models.
"The music, paired with the imagery within our new advertising evokes an emotional response that spans multiple generations," added Booth. The advertising campaign, which launched during the World Series, features print and television executions. Television spots feature a remake of the Beatles "Across the Universe," sung by Rufus Wainwright, with background vocals and guitar provided by Sean Lennon.
Canon's Couture: A History of Combining Form and Function
Canon pioneered the stylish camera concept in 1996 with the first ELPH camera, an APS film model designed to take great pictures and fit stylishly into the consumer lifestyle. Canon carried its stylish camera concept into its digital product offerings in 2000 with the first series of PowerShot Digital ELPH cameras. These incredibly successful compact digital cameras have been widely adopted throughout the years by celebrities and style-conscious consumers alike. With each ELPH camera Canon introduces, the company continues to focus on style, fashion and the distinctive look and feel of the ELPH camera line, a look that many competitors have subsequently tried to copy.
The company has successfully integrated the Canon brand into a number of strategic sponsorships and partnerships with other high-style brands, elevating the awareness of Canon as a fashionable, smart, elegant product. Canon introduced the PowerShot SD10 Digital ELPH camera last October, on the runways of New York Fashion Week with the help of celebrity designer Patricia Field. Canon has maintained an ongoing relationship with Coach, who has designed exclusively made leather camera cases for a variety of Canon products. The company participates in style-focused marketing initiatives like the PowerShot "Shoot Digital Print Direct" Mall Tour and the LoveMercedes Tour 2004. In addition, celebrity giveaways at New York's Z-100 Zootopia and Jingle Ball Concerts have raised Canon's brand awareness to near cult-status with celebrities and consumers alike.
Programs That Make Cameras and Life More Accessible for Consumers
Canon has introduced a variety of cash rebate programs, promotions and prize giveaways. These programs have helped expand the photographic possibilities for consumers and amateur photographers.
Playing upon its status as the official digital camera, binocular, photo printer and video sponsor of the NFL, Canon's new Connect and Score Rebate Program offers a one-stop photo imaging solution that allows consumers to connect their favorite Canon digital cameras or MiniDV camcorders together with Canon's popular printers, and score great photographs and valuable rebates, including a Visa Gift Card(b) worth up to $100. Between Nov. 1, 2004 and Jan. 31, 2005, if a customer buys a PowerShot Digital Camera with 4.0 megapixels or more resolution, and any qualifying Canon photo printer, they will receive a $50 Visa Gift Card by mail. Purchase a Canon MiniDV camcorder featuring DV Photo Plus, the new standard for video imaging excellence, plus any qualifying Canon photo printer and receive a $75 Visa Gift Card by mail. Purchase a Canon Digital EOS SLR Camera plus any qualifying Canon photo printer and receive a $100 Visa Gift Card by mail. These Visa Gift Cards are good anywhere Visa Debit is accepted. For further details please visit www.usa.canon.com/consumer.
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 #35 on the latest 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 2003, with global revenues of $29.9 billion. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
(a) According to The NPD Group, Canon has held the number one position in digital camera sales from May to August 2004. This figure is derived from unit sales and revenue figures of both compact cameras and digital SLR cameras combined, comprising a total picture of the digital camera market.
(b) Card program issued by The PrivateBank and Trust Company pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. NFL Enterprises, L.P. NFL and the NFL shield design are registered trademarks of the National Football League. The team names, logos and uniform designs are registered trademarks of the teams indicated.
Prices subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.
Casio Press Release
Casio Launches Exciting New Exilim.Casio Website
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Casio's Newest Digital Cameras Consolidated In One New Easy-To-Navigate Website
DOVER, NJ, October 25, 2004 - CASIO, Inc. is making it easier than ever for digital camera buffs and potential buyers to find out everything they need to know with the launch of the new http://exilim.casio.com website. The website is specially dedicated to provide consumers with invaluable information about Casio ' s newest EXILIM line of digital cameras, from its Pro to its Zoom and Card lines, including the EXILIM EX-P600, EX-Z30, EX-Z40, EX-Z50, EX-Z55 and EX-S100.
The exilim.casio.com easily guides you to quickly find information such as dealer location, special promotions, awards, and product reviews. You can even learn about the history of Casio's digital cameras on this informative site. What's more, if you cannot decide which camera is best for you, the website conveniently gives you the ability to do some comparison-shopping. Using the Casio Advantage feature, you can learn all about the numerous camera features, compare key features and advantages and then decide which camera best suits your needs.
"Casio is committed to making the digital photography experience as convenient as possible for consumers," said Bre Holley, Vice President of Sales, for Casio's Digital Imaging Division. "Consumers today want to be well informed before they purchase a product. We took that understanding and developed a website that is easy, fun and informative."
If you are not quite ready to purchase your digital camera, you might want to try your luck for a chance to win a EX-S100, the world's smallest optical zoom digital camera (as of August 25, 2004) by clicking on the Promotions feature. The Promotions feature describes the current Casio Will & Grace sweepstakes promotion, a celebration of the program's first-ever compilation CD "Let the Music Out," with recordings by the show's cast members, plus remixes of hits from Elton John, Cher, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, and much more.
This sweepstakes offers consumers the chance to win a variety of exciting prizes. One grand prize-winner will receive two tickets to a taping of Will & Grace at NBC Studios, roundtrip airfare for two and hotel accommodations in Los Angeles. The promotions feature will be regularly updated to include the latest promotions, such as Casio's Circuit City partnership.
Casio's comprehensive site will make sure you sound like a pro when you go to purchase and use your new digital camera. Because it will be updated regularly, you ' ll have the latest news about new products and professional advice from experts. Purchasing your digital camera has never been easier.
The EXILIM EX-Z40 is a 4-megapixel camera with a 3X optical zoom, a 2.0" TFT LCD screen and a battery life that allows up to 360 shots to be taken on a single charge. It is currently available and retails for $349.99. The EX-S100 is a 3.2-megapixel camera and hails as the world's smallest digital camera with an optical zoom (2.8X), as of August 25, 2004. It also features a 2.0" TFT LCD screen and is currently available for $399.99. The EX-Z55 is a 5-megapixel camera with a 3X optical zoom, a whopping 2.5" TFT LCD screen and a battery life that allows up to 400 shots to be taken on a single charge. The EX-Z55 is also currently available and retails for $449.99.
CASIO, Inc., Dover, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of CASIO Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan. CASIO, Inc., markets digital cameras, calculators, keyboards, mobile presentation devices, portable color TVs, timepieces (Wrist Technology), cash registers and other consumer electronic products. CASIO, the unexpected extra - for more information visit our web site at www.casio.com
DP Review reviews the Canon S70 and writes - 'What the S70 Canon has brought to the party is a superb 28-100mm equiv. lens (and if, like me, you love a true wide-angle this is a real selling point), excellent exposure, sophisticated (if slow) focus and understated, subtle - but effective - image processing. The result is a camera with a comprehensive range of controls, superb photographic quality and excellent handling.'
Megapixel reviews the Canon S70 also and give it a rating of - 8.4 for functionality and 9.4 for photographic qualities.
Get more reviews and information on the Canon Powershot S70
'Many new cameras will come with built-in shutter speeds of up to 30 seconds or longer, which is enough for most long-exposure photography. Other cameras will have a B (bulb) setting that will keep the shutter open as long as you keep your finger on the shutter release button or a T (time) exposure setting that will keep the shutter open until you press the shutter release button a second time. Cameras with bulb settings can also be fitted with a locking cable release so that it isn't necessary to keep your finger on the shutter for long exposures. If your camera doesn't have a cable release, you can use the self-timer option found on most cameras. This will eliminate camera vibration from your hands.'
Read more at Slow Shutter Speeds and Long Exposure Photography - Photo Tip
Also check out Digital Photography School for more free Digital Camera Tips on All Topics.
Tom's Hardware Guide review of 8 of the newest Inkjet printers on the market to help you make the comparison.
'Every year at this time, the four major manufacturers of inkjet printers introduce new printer lines. We compare all the new products and show you what to really expect from them - and most importantly, what they'll cost you.'
They review the:
•     Canon Pixma IP2000
•     Canon Pixma IP4000
•     Canon Pixma IP5000
•     Epson Stylus C66 Photo Edition
•     Epson Stylus Photo R300
•     HP Photosmart 7450
•     HP Photosmart 8150
•     Lexmark Z816
'The conclusion is the same as usual. When it comes to inkjet printers, models with separate color cartridges are more attractive in every respect: they're more economical to use, and also offer the best print quality. Epson's Stylus Photo R300 leads the pack in the area of quality, followed very closely by the Canon Pixma iP4000 and iP5000. While the Photosmart 8150 offers very good qualitative results, the cost of its cartridges make it a much less attractive choice.'
Read more at 8 New Inkjet Printers Put to the Test - Introduction
Sandisk Press Release
SANDISK INTRODUCES 256 MEGABYTE TRANSFLASH MODULE FOR MOBILE FEATURE PHONES
Consumers Seek More Memory for Handsets That Offer MP3 Music Storage, Video and GPS Navigation Systems
HAARLEM, The Netherlands, OCTOBER 25, 2004 – SanDisk® Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK) today introduced the highest capacity yet for its small TransFlash™ memory module, a 256 megabyte (MB) unit that will help meet the demands of new feature phones for greater storage of digital music, video, digital photos and GPS navigation software. The announcement was made at CTIA Wireless I.T. & Entertainment 2004 at Moscone Center, where SanDisk is exhibiting at Booth 924.
Unveiled by SanDisk in February, the TransFlash module is about one-fourth the size of a standard SD™ card but can be inserted into an adapter and used in SD-enabled devices. It is the world’s smallest removable flash memory module, measuring 15 x 11 x 1 millimeters or roughly the size of a fingernail. SanDisk expects to supply worldwide OEM and retail customers with the 256MB model starting in December, with pricing and exact availability varying according to geographic region.
Alan Niebel, primary analyst for Web-Feet Research, a memory and storage market research firm in Monterey, Calif., said that one of the new functions demanding more memory is video. “With TransFlash reaching 256MB capacity and beyond, the video market on cell phones opens up for storing large amounts of data on the smallest form factor available,” he said. Phones that are capable of putting video on TransFlash modules will be able to capture and play back television broadcasts, sports and news clips, movie and music video trailers, and some advertisements, he added. Niebel forecasts that video stored in mobile phones could become one of the largest consumers of flash memory, reaching over $3.6 billion by 2009.
Rex Sabio, SanDisk’s product marketing manager for TransFlash OEM, said that more models from handset manufacturers are offering multimedia features such as music downloading and playback, which in turn require higher memory capacities. “With additional storage capacity available, consumers will be able to store entire albums rather than just a couple of songs on their phones,” he said. “We’re also beginning to see models that offer GPS navigation and mapping functions, which require substantial memory.” Since the TransFlash module is removable, it offers consumers and manufacturers maximum flexibility in deciding how they want to use it, he added.
The first company to incorporate TransFlash was Motorola, which currently has several phones that are designed for it, including the Motorola V710, a clamshell model. That unit features a built-in 1.2 megapixel digital camera and an integrated MP3 player.
TransFlash continues to generate interest among other mobile phone makers as well, said Sabio. SanDisk expects approximately 40 handset models from several manufacturers to include TransFlash support in 2005.
SanDisk, the world’s largest supplier of flash memory data 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.
Playlist Mag give their first impressions of the Apple iPod Photo and write - 'The screen looks so great when lit up that many will be tempted to disregard how little battery life they’ll get from a constantly glowing iPod. Even though color is only used to great degree in the iPod’s Play screen (when album art is present), Calendars, Games (Solitaire is finally discernable enough to be playable), and, of course, Photo areas, all the menus look crisper thanks to the addition of color. Aiding this clarity is a taller and thinner font similar to what’s found on the mini. Oh, and the opening screen with a silver Apple logo against a black background is breathtaking.'
The Wall Street Journal reviews the iPod Photo and has the following to say about it.
'In the old days, when cameras used only film and most pictures were printed, you could show off your photos by just whipping out a stack of prints. But what's the equivalent method today, when most pictures remain in digital form, as images on a screen? Well, Apple Computer and some of its competitors want you to show them off on the screen of a small digital device you may already be carrying -- a digital music player like Apple's iPod.
Last week, Apple released a souped-up version of its wildly popular iPod called the iPod Photo. Unlike earlier iPods, this new model has a vivid color screen and can store and display up to 25,000 photos. It retains the usual music storage and playback functions as well. You can view your photos on the iPod itself or on the screen of any TV that's handy, using a clever cable that comes with the new iPod....
We can't recommend the iRiver for average, nontechnical users. But the new iPod Photo is a great choice for storing and sharing digital photos. We just hope it comes down in price.'
PC Mag reviews the iPod Photo and writes - 'As a music player, the iPod Photo is still virtually unassailable. But in the growing arena of portable multimedia players, it is not king of the hill. For example, the svelte Archos Gmini 400 matches the iPod Photo's music abilities, trumps it as a photo viewer/storage companion, and handles video to boot.'
Read more at Sizing up the Latest iPod Iteration - Personal Technology from The Wall Street Journal.
Camera Town reviews the Apple iPod Photo and writes - 'The iPod Photo misses the mark for users hoping to use it as an on-the-go photo storage device. The iPod Photo's lack of integrated media card slots, its inability to display photos without first having them "optimized" for viewing using iTunes, and its lack of zoom make this a less than ideal choice for photographers who want the ultimate digital-imaging travel companion.'
Apple Press Release
Your Entire Music & Photo Library in Your Pocket
SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Apple(R) today introduced iPod(R) Photo, the newest member of the iPod family that lets you take your entire music and photo library with you wherever you go. iPod Photo holds up to 25,000 digital photos alongside your music library and displays them on its stunning high-resolution color screen, allowing you to scroll through your photo library almost instantly using iPod's patent pending Click Wheel. iPod Photo lets you combine your music and your favorite photos to create magical slideshows on your iPod, and features TV-out for sharing your slideshows on big screen televisions and projectors. iPod Photo comes in 40GB or 60GB models which hold up to 10,000 or 15,000 songs, and its extended battery life gives users up to 15 hours of music playback or up to 5 hours of slideshows.
"Having both your entire photo and music collections with you wherever you go is the next big thing," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "Everyone has a digital camera and wants to enjoy and share their growing library of digital photos wherever they are. Unlike video content, photo content is free and abundant, and there are no copyright issues to deal with."
With its vivid color screen and backlight, iPod Photo displays crisp, clear photos both indoors and outdoors, so users can take their digital photo collection wherever they go and easily share their memories with family and friends. iPod Photo creates an entirely new iPod experience in full color for viewing album artwork, calendars, contacts and games, adding even more excitement to iPod.
Featuring Apple's patent pending Auto-Sync technology, iPod Photo makes it easy to automatically download your entire digital music and digital photo library onto iPod and keep it up-to-date whenever it is plugged into a Mac(R) or Windows computer using FireWire(R) or USB. Mac users can Auto-Sync their iPod with their photo library in iPhoto(TM) and Windows users can Auto-Sync their iPod with their photo collection in Adobe Photoshop Elements, Photoshop Album or their My Pictures folder. iPod Photo works with iTunes(R) 4.7, released today, providing music fans with the best digital jukebox on either a Mac or Windows computer and access to the iTunes Music Store, the number one digital music service in the world.
iPod Photo comes with Apple's patent pending Click Wheel, which combines the smooth and continuous scrolling of a touch-sensitive wheel with five push buttons for superior one handed navigation to easily find, view and share thousands of photos.
Pricing & Availability
The new 40GB and 60GB iPod Photo models will begin shipping today for a suggested retail price of $499 (US) and $599 (US) respectively, through the Apple Store(R) (http://www.apple.com), Apple's retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers. iPod Photo includes a dock with audio and video out, earbud headphones, 1.4m AV cable, 1.2m 30-pin to FireWire cable, a 1.2m 30-pin to USB cable, AC adapter, black carrying case and a CD with iTunes 4.7 for Mac and Windows computers.
iPod Photo requires a Mac with a FireWire or USB 2.0 port and Mac OS(R) X version 10.2.8 or later (v10.3.4 or later required for USB 2.0); or a Windows PC with a FireWire or USB 2.0 port or FireWire or USB 2.0 card and Windows 2000 (with Service Pack 4 or later), XP Home or Professional.
All iPods include rechargeable batteries, which have a limited number of charge cycles and may eventually need to be replaced. Battery life and number of charge cycles vary by use and settings. See http://www.apple.com/batteries for more information. Music capacity is based on four minutes per song and 128-Kbps AAC encoding; photo capacity is based on iPod-viewable photos transferred from iTunes.
Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh.
Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning desktop and notebook computers, OS X operating system, and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital music revolution with its iPod portable music players and iTunes online music store.
NOTE: Apple, the Apple logo, Macintosh, Mac, Mac OS, iPod, FireWire, iPhoto, iTunes and Apple Store are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.
DP Now reviews the Vosonic IC Drive VP3610 and writes - 'Put simply, the Vosonic IC-Drive VP3610 does what it says it can do on the box and there isn't a huge choice of alternatives at the £200 price point for a card-slot equipped unit as small and light as this. Nixvue's Digital Album II is faster and easier to use and it has a few more fancy features, but it's 50% more expensive, heavier and you need adapters to slot-in cards other than CFs. The IC Drive's on-screen user-interface could be improved a lot, but if you are simply going to use the device for one-touch card copying, even this criticism becomes unimportant. Of perhaps a greater concern is the unexceptional copying speed and battery life.'
'One of the big benefits of owning a digital camera is supposed to be that you can print out your own photos. But many digital camera owners don't have the patience or a good enough printer. Consumer Reports tested Web sites that will print your photos for you.
People who use digital cameras take lots of pictures. But less than a quarter of those digital images ever get printed.
If you find printing pictures too much of a hassle, Consumer Reports can help. It tested six online sites that'll do the job for you. They're Shutterfly, Snapfish, EZ Prints, as well as Searsphotos, Ofoto and Kodak Picture Center.
"Printing is very easy. All you have to do is basically select the photos you want. You simply select the quantity and the size. On this particular site, sizes range from four-by-six to near poster-size, twenty-by-thirty," said Mike Gikus of Consumer Reports.
The prints are mailed back to you in a few days.'
Read more at ABC7Chicago.com: Easy Online Digital Prints:
'Samsung Techwin Co. Ltd. disclosed Monday that it has released the new Kenox α7, a 7.0 megapixel 3x optical zoom digital camera equipped with a Schneider Kreuznach lens. The Kenox α7, which is an upgraded model of the α5, which was released back in June, is the first 7.0 mega pixel digital camera in the country. With newly added functions such as shutter priority, tightened vigilance in stand-by mode, upgraded flash, and letter recognizing option, this camera can take a picture at up to 15x zoom, using 3x optical and 5x digital zoom. This camera will be sold at W698,000 in the domestic market.'
Read more at Korea's First 7.0 Megapixel Digital Camera Introduced
'Digital cameras are now being used in cars to keep drivers awake and less distracted. The cameras are used as part of the automotive vision system; some cameras scan drivers’ eye movements to detect where the driver is looking, while others watch the road for animals or pedestrians. If a pedestrian crosses the street in front of a car with the automotive vision system, the digital cameras will see the person and scan the driver’s eyes to check for alertness. If the driver is not paying attention, an alarm will alert the driver. According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 25 percent of all automobile accidents and 68 percent of rear-end crashes are caused by distracted drivers.'
Read more at Digital Cameras Appropriated for Automobile Safety - Help Deter Distracted Drivers -
Digicam Review reviews the Pentax Optio 33LF and writes - 'The Pentax Optio 33LF is one of the cheaper 3 megapixel / 3x optical zoom digital cameras currently available, and one of the cheapest with a swivel screen. It has a swivelling rotating 1.6" colour screen, and records videos without sound. The camera is quite compact and easy to use. Image quality is good, with good detail and rich colours, although with some image softness. The movie mode is fairly average, recording 320 x 240, 16fps movies without sound. The camera is very easy to use, and has some nice features such as scene modes, digital filter, and panorama mode. For around £99 (UK) this camera offers excellent value for money. Overall, for someone looking for an easy to use, compact camera with a rotating screen I would recommend this camera. '
learn more about the Pentax Optio 33LF
Sony Press Release
SONY DIGITAL PHOTO PRINTER PICKS UP THE PACE
UP-DR150 Sets New Speed and Quality Standard for Event Photos, Digital Kiosks
CHICAGO, Oct. 21, 2004 (PMA Fall Conference Booth # 717) - Sony Electronics today enhanced its line of digital photofinishing products with the introduction of the UP-DR150 digital photo printer, a dye sublimation printer that is now the fastest in its class of professional photo printers.
Designed to deliver quality prints and rapid turnaround in retail, studio, in-field event and kiosk applications, the UP-DR150 also offers high-volume roll printing, durable print heads, and a simple front-access design to minimize maintenance.
"We continue to accelerate the expansion of the digital photofinishing market and its technologies with the introduction of the UP-DR150," said Jay Dellostretto, vice president for digital photofinishing in Sony Electronics' Broadcast and Business Solutions Company. "Retailers and photographers can effortlessly deliver the prints their customers want faster and better than ever, making retail digital photofinishing an even more compelling offering."
The UP-DR150 takes Sony's fourth-generation dye sublimation print technology to new levels. The high-speed printing comes from combining the newly developed adaptive thermal print head with a high-speed USB 2.0 interface. This trims print times for 4-inch x 6-inch images down to about 8 seconds, and delivers a 5-inch x 7-inch prints in about 15 seconds, and 6-inch x 8-inch prints in approximately 20 seconds. Aside from speed, the new thermal print head is designed to be durable enough to meet the demands of industrial use, reliably turning out print after print, day after day.
According to Dellostretto, careful consideration to the UP-DR150's design came from assessing and understanding real-life use. The high-volume roll capacity means that this workhorse can deliver 550 4-inch x 6-inch prints without reloading (335 5-inch x 7-inch prints). When it is time to replenish paper and ribbon, the auto-loading mechanism makes it simple to re-load. The front-loading layout makes the most of precious countertop space fitting into narrow spots without surrendering service access, and side-mounted interface connections are recessed to make this a drop-in installation.
"Print By Sony" Quality
The UP-DR150's thermal print head delivers a high quality print that exceeds expectations for digital imaging, producing crisp, vibrant prints with lifelike, continuous tones. Skin tones reproduced with the UP-DR150 approach the natural warmth that is the hallmark of quality film prints. A choice of three print finishes - glossy, texture and matte - produces photo-like print quality. Four different print packs are available: 3 ½-inch x 5-inch, 4-inch x 6-inch, 5-inch x 7-inch and 6-inch x 8-inch.
The Sony UP-DR150 digital photo roll printer will be available in December at a suggested retail price of $2,595.
JP Distribution Press Release
JP Distribution is pleased to announce the Gepe Card SafeTM range.
Digital memory cards are now used in almost every electronic device such as digital cameras, video cameras, MP3 Players, cell phones, PDAs, etc. For these devices different type and sizes of cards are used. All cards have one point in common however; the personal value of their contained data that needs to be protected. For transport, safekeeping and optimal protection of these memory cards Gepe has developed the unique Card SafeTM series.
A special feature of all Card SafeTM models is the innovative MultiCard insert. Each card space can be used for different card types. Without having to change the insert MMC/SD cards, Smart Media, Memory Stick or Compact Flash cards can be stored tightly and safely. The design and special material used, protect the cards from shocks and keeps them securely in place, whilst the unique, Anti-Static lining material prevents valuable data from being erased, or damaged, due to electrostatic effects.
All models of the Card SafeTM series have special viewing windows on the top, and bottom, which are positioned over the card so you can see which space is taken by which card, even if the box is closed. It makes organization easier.
In addition, one model, the Card SafeTM Extreme is waterproof, dustproof and crushproof. Even extreme temperature or humidity conditions will not endanger your valuable cards. The lock and the reinforced hinge are equipped with stainless steel pins to ensure long life and long lasting operation. The robust design of the lock makes using this Card SafeTM easy to use in any situation, even while wearing gloves.
A loop on the hinge of the Card SafeTM Extreme allows it to be attached to a strap. The Card SafeTM Extreme is made from a super strong polycarbonate material for added strength!
The Card SafeTM Basic model is made for everyday use. Both the Basic and the Extreme Card Safes holds up to four cards. The hinge and the lock are cleverly integrated into the case design.
The Card SafeTM Slim is the most elegant version of the new Gepe series and has two card spaces, which fits into any photo bag or pocket. The main features are identical to those of the above Card SafeTM models: Multi card insert, Anti Static lining, window and the practical lock.
The Gepe Card SafeTM models are available in an onyx colour. The Card SafeTM Extreme is also available in a high visibility neon colour.
Also available is the Gepe Card SafeTM Extreme Combi which offers all the features of the Extreme with the added benefit that it can store two memory cards and one Canon digital camera battery*.
*NB-1LH/3L or alternative.
The Card Safe series:
Art.No. 3852 Card SafeTM Slim, Colour: onyx £4.99 inc Vat
Art.No. 3856 Card SafeTM Basic, Colour: onyx £5.99 inc Vat.
Art.No. 3861 Card SafeTM Extreme, Colour: onyx £9.99 inc Vat.
Art.No. 3862 Card SafeTM Extreme, Colour: neon £9.99 inc Vat.
Art.No. 3867 Card SafeTM Extreme Combi; Colour: onyx £9.99 inc Vat.
Nikon Press Release
Nikon introduces the Digiscoping System - Fieldscope Digital SLR Camera Attachment FSA-L1
Nikon Vision Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Nikon Corporation, is proud to announce the release of several new Nikon Fieldscope accessories - Fieldscope Digital SLR Camera Attachment FSA-L1, Fieldscope Digital Camera Bracket FSB-1, and Wide DS Fieldscope Eyepieces.
With the spread of digital cameras in recent years, super-telephoto shooting using a combination of Nikon Fieldscope with digital camera has become increasingly popular among birdwatchers.
So popular, in fact, that it has led to many requests to Nikon for a Fieldscope accessory that enables shooting with digital SLR cameras. The newly released Digital SLR Camera Attachment FSA-L1 is our response. By using it to attach a Nikon D70 or D100 digital SLR camera to your Fieldscope, you can perform super-telephoto shooting with a focal length of 1,500mm (35mm-format equivalent, with Fieldscope ED82 series).
The Digital Camera Bracket FSB-1 allows you to connect the COOLPIX 5200/4200 digital camera and a Fieldscope for shooting photos. And our Wide DS Fieldscope Eyepieces make this connection even easier.
Nikon's Digiscoping System - using the above Fieldscope accessories with Fieldscopes and digital cameras - gives you the perfect combination for super-telephoto shooting during bird- or other nature watching.
Fieldscope Digital SLR Camera Attachment FSA-L1
Fieldscope Digital SLR Camera
Attachment FSA-L1
(Combination Example)
Transform your Fieldscope into a 1,200mm* or 1,500mm* super-telephoto lens for Nikon digital SLR cameras and take spectacular closeup images.
* 35mm-format equivalent
Features
Allows use of the camera's Centre-Weighted and Spot metering systems
Allows use of the camera's Aperture-Priority Auto and Manual exposure modes
Attaches directly to the Fieldscope and the F mount on a Nikon D70, D100, D2H, D1X or D1H digital SLR camera
CREO DELIVERS INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS AT PHOTOPLUS
News Highlights...
Photographers can use Creo scanners to digitize images of film originals, prints, and even glass photographic plates to preserve their original art in a digital image archive for future repurposing;
Featuring a range of smart and advanced technologies, the iQsmart1 scanner meets the challenging needs of today's creative professionals for the price of US$8,500;
Creo is demonstrating the iQsmart1 at PhotoPlus (stand #362), from October 21st to 23rd.
PHOTOPLUS EXPO 2004, NEW YORK -- October 21, 2004) - Creo Inc. (NASDAQ: CREO, TSX: CRE) is pleased to be demonstrating the iQsmart1(r) professional color scanner for the first time in North America at PhotoPlus Expo 2004, the largest expo for the photographic and imaging industries in the eastern United States. This new, innovative and affordable Creo scanner brings unparalleled precision, productivity and control to suit the needs of creative professionals including photographers, ad agencies, graphic design firms, and photo studios.
The iQsmart1 Scanner...
The iQsmart1 scanner creates new revenue streams for professional photographers, and sets new standards for high-resolution, high-productivity scanning for its price range. Featuring a range of smart and advanced technologies, the iQsmart1 scanner meets the challenging needs of today's creative professionals for the price of US$8,500. The iQsmart1 brings unparalleled color consistency and productivity to high-speed digital scanning. "The iQsmart1 puts imaging power in the hands of novices and experienced professionals alike," explains Shuky Garibi, director, scanning solutions, Creo. "We're very pleased to provide the creative market with the ability to control their color and images without relying on outside agencies. The iQsmart1 can shorten turnaround time and creates new opportunities for revenue generation." Special offers for purchasing Creo scanners are available at PhotoPlus. The iQsmart1 can also be purchased online at www.creo.com/iqsmart1.
At PhotoPlus Expo 2004...
Demonstrations of the iQsmart3(r) scanner are also underway at the Creo booth at PhotoPlus. This high-end member of the iQsmart family meets the needs of creative professionals who require higher optical resolution. The iQsmart3 scanner is a robust solution geared for high-productivity needs and offers versatility, speed and automation. Photographers can use Creo scanners to digitize images of film originals, prints, and even glass photographic plates to preserve their original art in a digital image archive for future repurposing.
Visit the Creo stand (#362) at PhotoPlus, where the iQsmart scanners are being demonstrated from October 21 to 23, 2004 in New York, NY.
About Creo...
Creo Inc. is a global company with key strengths in imaging and software technology. The leading provider of prepress systems, Creo helps over 25,000 customers worldwide adopt digital production methods which reduce costs, increase print quality and allow them to serve their customers more efficiently. Based on a solid foundation of intellectual property, Creo has an unmatched range of technology solutions that address the needs of commercial, publication, on demand, packaging, and newspaper printers, and creative professionals. Creo product lines include software and hardware for computer-to-plate imaging, systems for digital photography, scanning, and proofing, as well as printing plates and proofing media. Creo also supplies on-press imaging technology, components for digital presses, color servers, and high-speed digital printers.
Based in Vancouver, Canada, Creo reported fiscal 2003 revenue of US$578 million. Creo trades on NASDAQ (CREO) and the TSX (CRE). www.creo.com
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(c) 2004 Creo Inc. The Creo product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or service marks of Creo Inc. and may be registered in certain jurisdictions. Other company and brand, product and service names are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Data is subject to change without notice.
Graphics.com has a good tutorial on using Brush Inspiration Back In with Photoshop's History Palette:
'The more options designers have, the easier the task becomes of creating strong design without being consumed by the process. While most are comfortable with selectively applying filters through masks in the Layers palette, it's predictably sufficient. The History palette lets you rapidly brainstorm concepts without getting buried under a stack of layers, and the best part is how it's partnered with the history brush to bring unique designs to the surface....'
Read more at Brush Inspiration Back In with Photoshop's History Palette
The latest model, called the SCH-S250, has a charge-coupled device camera and high-sensitivity flash which allow users to take high-quality pictures. It can also function as a camcorder.
Built-in cameras are considered basic features in mobile phones but most camera phones have picture resolutions of less than one megapixel, meaning the pictures can sometimes be poor quality even if the technology is improving all the time.
"Our development of a five-megapixel camera phone will boost the competitiveness of the South Korean mobile phone industry," Samsung president Lee Ki-Tae said in a statement.
"At the same time, I would like to see our technological advances contribute to the growth of the global mobile phone industry," he said.'
Read more at Samsung develops world's first five-megapixel camera phone
Get more camera phone news at - Camera Phone Zone
There comes a time in every good blog master's year when their partner insists that they get a life and take a holiday - that time has come for this blogger and as a result as I take a trip to New Zealand over the next couple of weeks posting on this site will be intermittent. I'll check in from time to time with the bigger news that breaks but to keep with the latest news on a day to day basis I'd recommend you head over to another quality digicam blog - our friends at the Photography Blog. Have a great couple of weeks and we'll see you early in November.
'Have you ever wished you could test your own camera like the professionals? Here at dpnow when we test digital cameras we use a variety of test targets, including the standard ISO 12233 resolution target for testing electronic cameras. It's a pretty standard test used by a lot of reviewers. Our target cost us over £100 (approx US$180 or EU€150) but is vital to our battery of camera tests.
Stephen H. Westin, a research project leader at the Cornell University's Light Measurement laboratory, appears to have created a replica ISO 12233 test target using ISO specifications and made a pdf version of it available for free download.'
Read more at Digital Photography Now - News - Make your own ISO camera test target?
Interactive Review reviews the Epson F-3200 Scanner and writes - 'Without question film scanners are on their way out, they are either going to end up in the loft or in a boot sale within the next couple of years. So why are manufacturers still churning out new models? The obvious answer is that almost all photographers, and home users, have a collection of negatives or transparences that still need to be accessed. Our family history or artistic endeavours are stored on a small piece of celluloid, the most logical thing to do is to have them photographically printed, but this means either setting up a darkroom or a visit to a pro lab. With technology moving so fast, we can have prints almost instantly at the touch of a button. Users want to take advantage of the superb quality inkjet photo printing that is now available, and the only way to do this is to scan in the film.'
Pocket Lint Reviews the Epson F-3200 Film Scanner and has the following advice - 'So the Epson F-3200 does what it does well, but I can’t help wondering why the print scanning is included: the scanner falls between two stools. It’s not going to appeal to, say, top professionals and it’s too expensive at £549 to appeal to the enthusiast or consumer end of the market, so should be a good £150 cheaper.
Top scanning capability (particularly for medium format film) combined with some very neat functions and super build but all are compromised in the end by a very high price tag, which has nibbled the score down a good degree as a result. Having said that, since you get what you pay for, hopefully street and online economics will allow that price to change in future.'
Epson introduces the most competitively priced multi-format film scanner
Epson's new F-3200 dedicated film scanner offers a cost-effective, high quality film scanning solution. It enables professionals and experienced amateur photographers to achieve professional lab-quality results.
November 2004 - The Epson F-3200 is the most competitively priced multi-format dedicated film scanner on the market. Priced at £549 (inc VAT) the scanner is aimed at professionals and experienced amateur photographers who want to scan their film quickly without sacrificing quality. It is also ideal for photographers who want to digitise their film archive or who still shoot in film but wish to create digital images for manipulation and printing.
The Epson F-3200 is a versatile product which allows professionals and experienced amateurs to quickly scan reflective prints of up to 4" x 6" in addition to 35mm film through to 5" x 4" sheet film. Compatible with either a PC or Mac, the Epson F-3200 features advanced software that enables photographers to scan 35mm and medium format film in batches and at the same time remove dust and scratches from images. The built-in LCD screen allows photographers to preview scanned images quickly and easily.
The Epson F-3200 is the first film scanner to support a built-in memory card reader, so users can scan directly to memory cards for additional ease of use.
Richard Baylis, Sales and Marketing Manager, Consumer Products, Epson UK, says, “The affordable price of the Epson F-3200 makes it possible for professionals and experienced amateur photographers to scan a variety of film formats themselves, by-passing the professional lab altogether. Not only is this more convenient, but it is also offers a cost effective option for photographers who need to scan a large archive of various film formats.�
Epson F-3200 features summary
- High speed, high quality 3200dpi film scanner
- Compact and affordable solution for all film needs including batch scanning
- Includes film holders for
- 35mm strip and mounted transparencies, panoramic film, medium and large format film up to 4 x 5�
- Reflective media up to 4 x 6�
- Dedicated lamp system for negative and positive film
- USB 2.0 Hi-Speed and IEEE 1394 (FireWire) connectivity
- Scan directly to memory cards
- Preview images with built-in LCD screen
- EPSON Scan software for easy batch scanning
- Silverfast AI 6 for profession image editing and dust and scratch removal
- RRP inc VAT £549
Lexmark Press Release
Lexmark makes it easy to print photos on the go
The P315 Snapshot photo printer is like having your own portable photo lab
For the second time in two months, Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) has unveiled a breakthrough in photo printing with today's introduction of the Lexmark P315 Snapshot photo printer, which offers the latest in photo printing ease-of-use features designed to uncomplicate the process of producing high-quality, 4" x 6" images.
This is a truly portable photo studio that does not connect to a computer. Consumers can print borderless, 35mm-quality images directly from most digital cameras or memory cards in any room of the home or in their office. The Lexmark P315 also allows easy editing for customized prints that can be produced as fast as 38 seconds*.
"The Lexmark P315 offers some of the great ease of use features that we introduced with our Lexmark P6250 Home Photo Center All-in-One and the Lexmark P915 Home Photo Printer in September in a portable, smaller size," said Najib Bahous, Lexmark vice president and president of its Consumer Printer Division. "It doesn’t make sense that consumers can take their digital cameras anywhere, but they have to wait until they get to their home to enjoy the prints. We changed that experience with the Lexmark P315 by creating a portable, photo lab that can be used anywhere there’s an outlet."
The easiest way to print 4”x 6” photos
Light and compact with a built-in handle for easy mobility, the Lexmark P315 is essentially a photo lab that can be used anyplace with an electrical outlet. Key features designed to simplify the photo printing process include:
An adjustable 2.5” color LCD that allows users to preview and edit images before printing them. The large screen also features a countdown timer that tells consumers how long it will take to generate output, giving them the freedom to multitask;
Compatibility with PictBridge-enabled cameras;
On-board card readers that support CompactFlash Type I & II, Microdrive, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digital Memory Stick (MS, Pro, Duo), Smart Media and xD; and
Exif Print capability that immediately recognizes camera settings.
In addition, the Lexmark P315 is fast. Consumers can create borderless 4”x6” prints as fast as 38 seconds*.
Pricing and availability
The Lexmark P315 Snapshot photo printer has an estimated retail price of $179, and will soon be available at Best Buy.
About Lexmark International
Lexmark International, Inc. is a leading developer, manufacturer and supplier of printing solutions – including laser and inkjet printers, multifunction printers, and associated supplies and services – for offices and homes in more than 150 countries. Founded in 1991, Lexmark reported approximately $4.8 billion in revenue in 2003, and can be found on the Internet at www.lexmark.com.
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* Printing in QuickPrint mode and excludes processing time.
All prices are estimated street prices in U.S. dollars – actual prices may vary
Lexmark and Lexmark with the diamond design are trademarks of Lexmark International, Inc., registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.
The H1D camera offers all the benefits of the H1 of which there are very many, but provides a directly digital result. The controls of all key settings uses the integral H1D controls, including ISO speed rating, white balance, exposure mode and focus mode. The grip display even shows a detailed histogram of the exposure. Immediate image and exposure checking is provided via the H1D colour preview display and by acoustic exposure feedback.
There is no need for CF cards, micro drives or other storage media. In the studio the H1D can be tethered to a Mac or PC computer. The H1D includes a separate 40Gb Image Bank that safely and rapidly stores all images. Up to eight hours of constant computer-free shooting is provided from a single charge. Up to 850 images can be stored each viewable on the two inch colour preview display that also offers image browsing and ultra fast zooms. Back in the studio, a computer displays an automatic contact sheet, allowing active image browsing with a 100 images transferred every 2.5 seconds.
To ensure maximum shooting speed throughout its lifetime, the storage media is specially sectored and formatted to prevent fragmentation. The Image Bank automatically loads its power requirements straight from the FireWire cable when connected to a computer. Alternatively, while on the road, it can be powered with a standard L-size rechargeable battery.
Thanks to its unique Double Duration Circuit technology (patent pending), the H1D runs more than twice as cool as similar digital camera systems, for cleaner images, true 16bit colour depth and double the battery life. This is an important aspect as electronically generated heat can create noise in images, thereby limiting the dynamic range, density and image quality.
Easy-to-use tools, full process colour management, fast preview downloads, and a large output accurate preview, produce control over capture. Tiff tags including preview, metadata, and a history log of all settings used with the raw image data provide future-safe information retention.
HASSELBLAD H1D DIGITAL FEATURES:
Sensor size: 22 Mpixels
Sensor dimensions: 36.7 x 49.0 mm
Image size: 66 MByte 8 bit RGB / 132 MByte 16 bit RGB
Shooting mode: Single shot
16 bit colour
ISO speed range: ISO 50 - 400
Longest shutter speed: 32 seconds
Image storage: Image Bank external hard drive
Storage capacity: 850 full resolution images
Battery type: SONY InfoLithium NP-F series (not included)
Capture rate:: 2 seconds/image including preview
Color display
Histogram feedback on camera LCD and rear LCD
Acoustic feedback
Software: FlexColor
Platform support: Mac OSX, Win98, ME, NT, 2000, XP
Host connection type: Firewire (IEEE1394)
HASSELBLAD H1D CAMERA FEATURES:
Camera type: Interchangeable viewfinder and lenses.
Lenses: Hasselblad HC lenses with integral shutter. All lenses from the V system with optional lens adapter
Shutter speed range: Digital: 1/800 s to 32 seconds. Analog: 1/800s to 18 hours
Viewfinder: 90° reflex viewfinder w. diopter adjustment (-4 to +2.5D). Image magnification 2.7X. Integral fill-flash (G.No. 12 @ ISO100). Hot shoe for SCA3002-system flashes from Metz™.
Focusing: Automatic and manual focusing. Instant manual focus override. AF metering with passive central cross-type sensor. Metering range EV 1 to 19 2 ISO100.
Flash control: Automatic TTL centre weighted system. Uses built-in flash or flases compatible with SCA3002 (Metz™). Output can be adjusted from -3 to +3EV. For manual flashes a buitl-in metering susystem is available.
Exposure metering: Metering options: Spot, Centre weighted and Average. Metering range Spot: EV2 to 21, Centre weighted: EV1 to 21, Average: EV1 to 21
Power supply: Cassette for 3 CR-123 Lithium batteries. Optional rechargeable Li-ion battery available.
SMaL Press Release
SMaL Camera Technologies, an award-winning developer of digital imaging solutions, announced today the introduction of its ACM100 camera designed specifically for advanced automotive safety and convenience applications. The Company also announced today the ACM100's selection by a major automotive technology supplier as a component for advanced safety applications including occupant protection, collision intervention, night vision and lane departure warning. Specifics about the selection, including terms of the contract, are being kept confidential at the request of the customer.
"We're honored that one of the world's leading Tier 1 automotive suppliers has selected SMaL's ACM100 Camera," says Maurizio Arienzo, SMaL's President and Chief Executive Officer. "At the time of our company's founding in 1999, we set our sites on developing the world's leading imaging technology for automotive applications. The introduction of the ACM100, the first camera completely and specifically designed for automotive vision systems, fulfills this mission."
Best Technology, Best Performance
SMaL's ACM100 automotive camera delivers superior image quality in any lighting condition, thus improving the performance of applications and algorithms that rely on the quality of the camera's video. SMaL's Autobrite® adaptive wide dynamic range technology enables the industry's widest dynamic range (up to 120 dB; 500-times greater than standard CMOS or CCD camera) for optimal performance in scenes with varied lighting. In addition, the ACM100's high near-infrared (IR) sensitivity and exceptional low light sensitivity enhance data capture at night and contribute to overall safety system performance. Only SMaL can provide such wide dynamic range and high sensitivity in a single solution.
One Camera, Many Applications
The SMaL ACM100 is configurable and programmable so that it can be optimized for multiple applications by systems providers. The ACM100 has several output and optics options and includes a range of camera settings. This flexibility means that system providers can use one technology for multiple applications, thereby reducing supply overhead and improving time to market for new applications.
Automotive Focus
The demands of the automotive marketplace require a camera that is designed and built specifically for current and future advanced safety and convenience applications. The ACM100 has the feature set, performance over temperature and durability required by the demanding automotive market. Cameras designed for consumer applications will not meet the unique requirements of automotive vision systems. With this most recent design win, SMaL's automotive products have been adopted by two leading automotive Tier 1 suppliers, clearly establishing SMaL as a leader in the automotive vision industry.
ACM100 Technical Specifications
The ACM100 includes a SMaL VGA 1/3-inch monochrome CMOS imager. The camera includes Autobrite adaptive wide dynamic range, as well as exceptional near-IR sensitivity and low light sensitivity. Internal 12-bit image correction, exposure control and post-processing ensure data integrity. Additional features include region of interest exposure control, flexible image processing and strobe synchronization. The camera is designed to meet in-cabin environmental and reliability specifications. An evaluation camera kit, the ECK100, is available today from SMaL to qualified Tier 1's and OEMs.
In Stat Press Release
Camera Phones and Digital Still Cameras Driving Market for CMOS and CCDs, Reports In-Stat/MDR
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. --(Business Wire)-- Oct. 18, 2004 The image sensor market has continued to show sharp growth over the past year, according to In-Stat/MDR (http://www.instat.com). Overall, the high-tech market research firm expects the image sensor market to grow at more than 30 percent annually in unit terms through 2008, due primarily to rapidly growing shipments of digital still cameras, camera phones and scanners.
According to Brian O'Rourke, a senior analyst with In-Stat/MDR, "Charge-Coupled Devices (CCDs) have benefited from the explosive growth of the digital still camera market, which nearly doubled in size from 2002 to 2003." Meanwhile, the market for Complimentary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors has grown primarily due to the rapid growth of camera phones, which have only been on the market since 2000, and in that time have grown to be the single most popular type of digital camera. "Compared to CCDs, CMOS sensors offer a lower price, less power consumption, and the ability to integrate other functions on chip," said O'Rourke. "These advantages are significant in the camera phone market. CMOS sensors have also been prized in other markets that emphasize low cost, including toy cameras, Web cameras and dual-mode cameras."
In-Stat/MDR has also found that:
-- Total unit shipments of CMOS image sensors will surpass CCDs for the first time in 2005.
-- CMOS image sensor shipments will grow at roughly seven times the rate of CCDs through 2008.
-- CCDs also continued to have success in markets where they have been entrenched for decades, including camcorders and security cameras. These markets represent high volumes, though the markets are beginning to mature.
-- In markets for linear image sensors, CCDs have been successful in high-speed applications such as digital copiers and flatbed scanners, while Contact Image Sensors (CIS) have been more popular in cost-sensitive applications, including fax machines and multifunction peripherals.
The report, "Image Sensors 2004: Camera Phones & Digital Still Cameras Drive Market for CMOS and CCDs" (#IN0401157MI), provides a complete review of the 2003 market for image sensors, as well as annual forecast numbers through 2008. CCD, CMOS and CIS market shares for each application, in both units and revenues, are provided annually for the entire forecast period. Profiles of the world's leading image sensor suppliers are also presented. To purchase this report, or for more information, please visit http://www.instat.com/catalog/Ccatalogue.asp?id=161 or contact Erin McKeighan at 480-609-4551; emckeighan@reedbusiness.com. The report price is $3,495.
About In-Stat/MDR
In-Stat/MDR (http://www.instat.com) offers a broad range of information resources and analytical assets to technology vendors, service providers, technology professionals, and market specialists worldwide. The company stands alone in its ability to integrate both supply-side and demand-side research methodologies into a single comprehensive view of technology markets and products. This capability relies on a unique ability to cover the entire value chain from engineering-level technology, through equipment, infrastructure, services and end users.
In-Stat/MDR is part of the Reed Electronics Group, a division of Reed Elsevier (http://www.reedelsevier.com), a world-leading publisher and information provider. With more than 38,000 employees worldwide, Reed Elsevier operates in the science & medical, legal, education and business-to-business industry sectors, providing high value and flexible information solutions to professional end users, with increasing emphasis on the Internet.In Stat Press Release
Camera Phones and Digital Still Cameras Driving Market for CMOS and CCDs, Reports In-Stat/MDR
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. --(Business Wire)-- Oct. 18, 2004 The image sensor market has continued to show sharp growth over the past year, according to In-Stat/MDR (http://www.instat.com). Overall, the high-tech market research firm expects the image sensor market to grow at more than 30 percent annually in unit terms through 2008, due primarily to rapidly growing shipments of digital still cameras, camera phones and scanners.
Casio Press Release
Fiery photo technology for hot winter nights: The new EXILIM Zoom EX-Z50 "Red Star"
Norderstedt, October 2004 - The days are getting shorter and the dark season is setting in. The EXILIM Zoom EX-Z50 "Red Star" Special Edition with its loud colour shade and lots of power gets everyone out of hibernation. The little one is power-packed! In its shiny metallic red it records the big party celebration in no time at all.
Get the Latest Price on the Casio Exilim EX-Z50 The EXILIM Zoom EX-Z50 "Red Star" is not only a hot candidate for fantastic pictures when it comes to design; the lifestyle camera is also a shining example for photo fun as regards the subject of technology. 5.0 Megapixel and 3x optical zoom provide outstanding sharpness, and it's easy to watch for the right moment with the Direct On function.
The shiny red one is ready for all kinds of snapshots in around 1.6 seconds1). With a shutter release time lag of around 0.01 seconds2), you can take a photo of the good-looking guy next door before he notices. And if the unnoticed approach is successful, even the smallest tattoo can still be shot in large format. Namely, the Auto Macro function automatically switches from Autofocus to the Macro mode and back again as required. In the heat of the night the "Red Star" is a faithful companion: the SUPER LIFE battery gives it power for up to 390 pictures3). One charge of the powerful Lithium-Ion storage battery is enough. For poorly-lit pictures there is the useful Flash Assist function available, which most automatically brightens up pictures that have turned out too dark if need be. And when you've found Mr. Perfect at last, the movie function is activated. It records a film with sound recording without any time limit4). For flaming moments by candlelight, the "Red Star" offers a further highlight: in the BESTSHOT function there are 23 preset motif programs for all kinds of different situations, as well as for the scenario. For easy operation and a technically top-class performance, the Icon Help function explains the symbol of the respective mode that the photo-lover is currently using.
1) LCD and flash switched off
2) After focusing
4) Acc. to CIPA standard
5) Depending on the size of the memory card
The USB docking station charges the camera and controls at the same time the uncomplicated data transmission from the camera to the PC. It is included in the delivery package together with the Lithium-Ion storage battery, extensive software on CD-ROM and carrying strap.
The EXILIM Zoom EX-Z50 "Red Star" is available from the beginning of November.
Corel/Jasc Press Release
Corel Corporation Acquires Jasc to Extend Graphics Software Portfolio
OTTAWA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 14, 2004-- Recognized, Trusted Provider Of Graphics, Office and Personal Productivity Software Acquires Leading Imaging Software Vendor
Corel Corporation today acquired Jasc Software, Inc., the award-winning developer of the Paint Shop(TM) family of digital-photography and image- editing software. A critical milestone in Corel's ongoing growth strategy, this acquisition follows four consecutive quarters of profitability and a successfully completed turnaround since Corel was taken private in August 2003. The acquisition further extends Corel's position as a powerful force in the packaged software industry, providing exceptional office and personal productivity and graphics products. Corel will now serve a combined base of more than 60 million customers worldwide with an extended software portfolio that combines innovative photo-editing and graphics-creation, vector-illustration and technical-graphics applications along with Corel's popular WordPerfect line of products. The acquisition is expected to officially close by the end of October 2004.
Corel corporate headquarters will remain in Ottawa, Canada. Corel will maintain the former Jasc facility in Minneapolis for the Paint Shop family operations. Amish Mehta will continue to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of Corel Corporation. Several members of the Jasc senior management team will join Corel.
Corel will sell Paint Shop(TM) Pro(R), Paint Shop(TM) Pro(R) Studio, and Paint Shop(TM) Photo Album(TM) as stand-alone products, and will continue to provide worldwide service and support to customers under the Corel brand. In addition, Corel will actively support new R&D initiatives for the Paint Shop family, ensuring that the next generation of Jasc products will continue to flourish.
In August 2003, Corel was acquired by Vector Capital Group, a San Francisco-based venture capital concern which currently manages over 500 million dollars in capital. Vector helped Corel create and execute a focused product and market strategy - leveraging Corel's most popular and enduring products, the WordPerfect Office Suite, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite and Corel Painter - while streamlining its operations and product lines. With the support of Vector, Corel is poised for future growth with the addition of the Paint Shop family as well as through future acquisitions on the horizon.
Corel's innovative software offerings, which include the popular WordPerfect Office Suite, the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, and Corel Painter Natural-Media(R) painting and illustration software, have earned a strong following among value-conscious consumers, graphics professionals, and businesses around the world. This acquisition extends Corel's unique value proposition to millions of customers worldwide and dramatically expands Corel's reach in both the business and consumer graphics market sectors.
Now, Corel can provide users of graphics software a complete migration path from the most basic photo organizing and sharing, to image improvement and retouching, all the way to advanced image editing and graphics creation. The addition of the Paint Shop product family allows Corel to better serve sizable new consumer graphics markets while expanding its coverage of the business graphics market segment.
Extending Corel's Presence In The High-Growth Digital Software Market
"The acquisition expands our reach in digital imaging software - one of the key drivers behind our growth strategy," said Mehta. "The Paint Shop family gives us strong entry level graphics and imaging software products that will help Corel capture millions of new customers. Over the long term, we will significantly expand our footprint with consumers who regularly purchase digital photography software - a fast growing software market segment."
According to InfoTrends/CAP Ventures, the worldwide market for consumer digital cameras is expected to expand at a CAGR of approximately 20%, to over 100 million units that will ship in 2008, up from 45 million in 2003. A recent survey by InfoTrends/CAP Ventures also stated that 55% of owners of digital cameras reported purchasing additional software for managing and enhancing digitally captured photos.
The Paint Shop family optimizes the digital photography and imaging experience for consumers and business professionals at all skill levels, offering a growth path from novice to seasoned professional. Its flagship products, Paint Shop Pro, Paint Shop Pro Studio and Paint Shop Photo Album, are recognized worldwide for innovation. "As a leading consumer software brand, the Paint Shop family is a natural and synergistic addition to the Corel packaged software portfolio," said Mehta. "Like Corel, Jasc has consistently delivered innovative, reliable and easy-to-use graphics solutions at a very competitive price point. This acquisition signals our focus on increasing the breadth of our product family in order to service the broad, growing market of value-conscious consumers and businesses."
Extending Reach Through Global Distribution Network
The combined global sales channels of both Corel and Jasc will yield a much wider worldwide distribution network. With this acquisition, the Paint Shop family will now be sold through a broader channel that reaches millions of Corel and Jasc customers around the world. Together, Corel and Jasc's global distribution network includes more than 5,000 value-added resellers and major retailers serving 75 countries around the globe.
In addition, both Corel and Jasc have secured powerful OEM bundling partnerships with several major companies, including DELL Computer, Wacom, and others. These OEM relationships will continue to expand the combined Company's reach with consumers and businesses alike.
Record Profitability And Focused Direction Fuel Corel's Growth Strategy
This year, privately-held Corel achieved record levels of profitability and realized significant growth across all of its product lines. Corel is now poised for future market growth with the addition of the Paint Shop family of digital photography and image editing software.
"This has all the signs of a very successful acquisition because both companies need what the other provides," said Rob Enderle, Principal Analyst for the Enderle Group. "Corel has a strong international brand and products that effectively target professional digital photographers but needed a strong entry, level product like Jasc's to capture new customers. Jasc needed the power of an international brand and robust product set to expand their customer base. The combination of the two firms will deliver a powerful software portfolio encompassing consumers and businesses seeing a proven digital photography solution at a very competitive price."
About Jasc
Jasc is recognized as a global leader of digital photography and imaging software, providing the Paint Shop family of products that is anchored by Paint Shop Pro, Paint Shop Pro Studio and Paint Shop Photo Album. Jasc is focused on optimizing the digital photography and imaging experience for consumers and business professionals at all skill levels, offering a growth path from novice to seasoned professional. Jasc products are Windows-based and provide an affordable solution for PC users - all backed by award-winning service and support.
About Corel
Corel Corporation provides innovative software solutions that help millions of value-conscious businesses and consumers in over 75 countries improve their productivity. The Company is best known for its graphics, office and personal productivity solutions, including the CorelDRAW(R) Graphics Suite, the WordPerfect(R) Office Suite and the Corel Painter Natural-Media(R) painting and illustration software. Corel was acquired by San Francisco-based Vector Capital Group in August 2003, and since that time has achieved record levels of profitability and growth across all product lines. Founded in 1985, Corel is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada. For more information, please visit www.corel.com.
2004 Corel Corporation. All rights reserved. Corel, WordPerfect, CorelDRAW, Painter, Natural-Media and the Corel logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Corel Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. Paint Shop Pro, Paint Shop Pro Studio and Paint Shop Photo Album are trademarks or registered trademarks of Jasc Software, Inc.
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