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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.
Steve's Digicams reviews the Canon Powershot SD20 and writes - 'the PowerShot SD20 Digital ELPH will make a great choice for anyone who wants an ultra-compact camera that's stylish, durable, and can be worn around your neck or slipped in a pocket or purse. Its 5-megapixel Superfine images have plenty of resolution to create photo-quality 8x10-inch or larger prints. With a street price of around $349, its a little expensive. But, if you're one who just has to have one of the smallest digicams available, the SD20 will surely please.'
Learn more about the Canon Powershot SD20
PC World has a good collection of tips for using your digital camera.
'The typical mobile professional's bag bulges with a notebook, a PDA, and a mobile phone (or smart phone), not to mention business cards, folders stuffed with papers, and the occasional half-eaten ham sandwich. And there's probably an MP3 player in there somewhere, too.
So I'm loath to suggest adding yet one more thing to an already overstuffed bag. But suggest I will: On your next business trip, consider packing a digital camera.
Yes, you can take pictures with many cell phones today. But most offer image resolution no greater than 640 by 480 pixels, which simply isn't enough to capture fine details.
A digital camera can be an extremely useful tool for capturing information as well as images. I'll give you a few examples, plus provide tips on backing up your image files on the go and shopping resources.' Read more at Digital Camera Tips
'Swedish-Japanese mobile phone maker Sony Ericsson more than tripled its third-quarter pretax profits, gained market share on booming demand for its camera phones and forecast rising fourth-quarter sales on Thursday.
The world's fifth-biggest handset producer made profit of 136 million euros ($166.8 million) before tax, up from 39 million euros in the same period of last year and beating market expectations of 118 million euros.
The joint venture between Sweden's mobile network maker Ericsson and Japan's consumer electronics giant Sony grew sales to 1.68 billion euros from 1.3 billion a year earlier, topping market expectations of 1.52 billion.
Sony Ericsson shipped 10.7 million phones in the July-September period, up 51 percent from last year's third quarter, against a consensus forecast of 10.48 million units. Read more at Sony Ericsson Quarterly Profit Triples
Imaging Resource has just posted that the Sony Cybershot T3 won't be release in the US market.
I know of a few US friends who will be bitterly disappointed by this news.
'Your hard drive is overflowing with gazillions of digital pics. DSC00234.jpg might as well be labeled DON'T_KNOW_DON'T_CARE.jpg. The quest to build the photo archive of the future....
A digital camera is an enticement to take more snaps than you can keep track of. Why not shoot a few more pictures of Aunt Rose to see if you can get one that's slightly more flattering to her - how to put it? - irregular profile. You don't even need to carry a camera; you can squeeze off a stream of shots with your cell phone and send them to your inbox. With the price of digital storage plummeting even as our time seems to become ever more valuable, it's cheaper to store the lot of them than to weed out the clunkers.
But having thousands of photos on a hard disk or DVD-ROM is the equivalent of throwing Bettmann's images into the air and letting them flutter to the ground. Our only hope is that the army of engineers laboring in labs around the world can come up with a better way....'
Read more at Point. Shoot. Kiss It Good-Bye.
Novoflex Press Release
With the arrival of digital recording and software-based post-processing, techniques for achieving perfect panning shots and 360° panoramic views are attracting a lot of attention in the photographic world.
The new Novoflex Panorama-VR system perfectly meets the demands of professional photographers for an easy-to-use adjuster system to rotate a camera 360° around a nodal point.
For a perfect 360° panoramic shot without perspective offset, it is essential to position the camera in such a way that the axis of rotation passes through the nodal point of the camera system. The new Novoflex Panorama-VR system offers the full set of adjusting and rotational elements essential for taking this kind of picture. The system is suitable for portrait and landscape shots with an axial travel of maximum 125 mm.
Technical data:
Order code: VR-SYSTEM
Weight: 950 g
Height portrait: 220 mm
Height landscape: 185 mm
Travel along optical axis: 125 mm
Lateral travel: Portrait: 70 mm; Landscape: 90 mm
RRP: EUR 349.00
Sony Press Release
SONY UNVEILS INDUSTRY'S FIRST DVD BURNER THAT COMBINES STAND-ALONE AND COMPUTER-ATTACHED DVD VIDEO RECORDING
New DVDirect Burner Enables Users to Transfer Home Videos Directly from Camcorders to DVD Discs with or without a Computer
SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 12, 2004 - Sony is unlocking new levels of home video enjoyment with the world's first DVD burner capable of stand-alone, real-time DVD recording, as well as computer-attached burning.
Sony's new DVDirect (pronounced DVD Direct) device can connect directly to a camcorder or VCR for transferring tape-based video footage to DVD for playback on most home DVD players and PC DVD-ROM drives.
Camcorder sales continue to soar, marking a significant opportunity for the DVDirect device to help camcorder owners transfer home movies onto DVD without the complexity of using a computer. This allows DVD recording to be extended to a broader group of consumers who might otherwise consider the task too daunting.
The DVDirect burner can also be attached to a PC, and comes with the necessary software for advanced DVD video authoring projects, as well as the creation of data, music, and video DVDs and CDs.
"Preserving precious moments onto DVD has never been easier than with the DVDirect burner," said Robert DeMoulin, marketing manager for branded storage products in Sony Electronics' IT Products Division. "Users can simply connect their camcorder to the recorder, hit the record button, and out comes a DVD disc that they can pop into their home DVD player. Meanwhile, computer-savvy users can attach the DVDirect device to a PC to perform all of the common tasks characteristic of computer-attached burners."
"Sony continues to be a pioneer in the DVD-recordable market by simplifying the DVD burning process," said Wolfgang Schlichting, research director for removable storage for IDC. "With DVD-recordable speeds reaching their limit, Sony has taken the next step in market innovation with DVDirect.
The DVDirect device can burn up to 12 hours of high-quality MPEG-2 video onto compatible double layer DVD+R DL discs or up to six hours onto standard single layer DVD+R or DVD+RW discs. The device can also automatically insert chapters onto DVDs through DVD+Video Recording (+VR), or "start and stop" recording, so users can jump to specific parts of a DVD during playback and edit video footage on the fly.
Less to Buy and Less to Set Up
Unlike computer-attached burners currently on the market that require a separate capture card and a computer to perform the same functions, Sony's DVDirect burner features built-in real-time video capturing and hardware MPEG-2 encoding to quickly deliver high-quality DVDs. Consumers who want to transfer their analog tapes to DVD can save money on extra hardware expenditures by choosing the all-in-one DVDirect device.
Computer-Attached Recording
When attached to a PC with a USB 2.0 connection, the DVDirect burner also supports dual-format, double-layer burning. With 16X maximum recording speeds for DVD+R, users can burn a full write-once disc in about six minutes. Double layer burning allows consumers to record up to four hours of MPEG-2 video (at 4.7 Mbps) and up to 8.5GB of data onto a single-sided, double layer disc. Additionally, Sony's DVDirect burner can support 4X DVD±RW, 48X CD-R and 24X CD-RW recording speeds, so users can select the speed and media that best suits their needs.
Users can benefit from many other features when they connect the DVDirect device to a computer, including the ability to jazz up their home movies with special effects or music, or to make copies of home movies using a master DVD.
DVD and CD Software Suite
Sony's DVDirect device comes bundled with an award-winning Nero® software suite from Ahead for computer-attached operation. The package features DVD video authoring software and DVD/CD burning software, as well as packet-writing software for users to easily record files and folders by dragging them to the icon of a DVD+RW/CD-RW disc. Additional elements include DVD-Video playing software, backup software, virtual disc drive software, management/jukebox software, disc label creation software and drive tool software. All tasks and applications are accessible via the unique Nero StartSmart launcher, which serves as the ultimate command-center, giving the user one-click access to all programs in the package.
Availability and Pricing
The DVDirect burner is expected to ship in November for an estimated selling price of around $300. Sony DVD/CD rewritable drives are sold through resellers and retailers nationwide, mail order catalogs, and select online shopping sites, including sonystyle.com.
For this product, Sony will provide "worry-free" installation, along with toll-free customer and technical service, Monday through Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. CT. The company will also provide a one-year limited warranty from the original date of purchase. See product literature and actual warranty for details.
Specifications for Sony's New DVDirect Burner (Model VRD-VC10):
Stand-Alone Recording Mode
Supported Media for Stand-alone Operation: DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD+RW
DVD Recording Mode: DVD+VR
Supported Video Format: MPEG2
Automatic Chaptering: 5, 10 or 15 minutes
Synchronized Recording:
Auto-start/stop recording with most camcorders/VCRs
Recording Times:
HQ (single layer: 1 hour, double layer: 2 hours)
SP (single layer: 2 hours, double layer: 4 hours)
SLP (single layer: 6 hours, double layer: 12 hours)
Supported Sound Format: Dolby® Digital (AC3)
Inputs:
Composite video (yellow RCA jack) x 1
S-Video x 1
Analog audio 2ch (red and white RCA jacks)
Computer-Attached Recording Mode
Supported Media Types & Speeds:
DVD+R DL: 2.4X CLV (max.) writing
DVD+R: 16X CAV (max.) writing
DVD+RW: 4X CLV (max.) rewriting
DVD-R: 8X Z-CLV (max.) writing
DVD-RW: 4X CLV (max.) rewriting
DVD-ROM reading (single layer): 16X CAV (max.)
DVD-ROM reading (dual layer): 8X CAV (max.)
CD-R: 48X P-CAV (max.) writing
CD-RW: 24X Z-CLV (max.) rewriting
CD-ROM: 48X CAV (max) reading
Interface: Hi Speed USB 2.0
OS Support: Compatible with Microsoft Windows® 2000 / Windows XP
Burst Data Transfer Rate: High Speed USB 2.0: 480 Mbit/s max
Random Access Time: 140 ms (CD-ROM), 135 ms (DVD-ROM)
Buffer Memory: 8 MB
Buffer Under-run Error Protection Technology: Sony Power-Burn conformed
Compatible Disc Formats: DVD-ROM, DVD-Video, DVD+R DL, DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD-RW, DVD-R, CD-ROM, CD-DA, Video CD, Photo CD (multi-session), CD TEXT, CD Extra, and others
Recording Methods (CD): Disc at Once, Track at Once, Session at Once, Packet Writing
(DVD): Random Access Write (DVD+RW/DVD-RW/CD-RW), Sequential Write (DVD+R/+RW, DVD-R/-RW/CD-R/RW)
Dimensions: 164 x 66 x 234 mm (H x W x L)
Megapixel reviews the Sony DSC-P150 and writes - 'The Sony DSC-P150 is so similar in appearance to the DSC-P100/P120, that it is only with a chance to compare them side by side that subtle differences begin to emerge in the ways the cameras are finished, and in particular, the type of finish used on the front section of each camera.
Shape, external controls and lenses are identical. Just like the P100, the body of the P150 is entirely covered in metal, but here with a brushed steel look on the front. Indeed, the resemblances are more numerous than the differences, and the surest way to recognize it is by the bold 7.2 megapixels stenciled on the front of the camera.'
Metx Press Release
Metz mecablitz 28 CS-2 digital - Optimized for compact digital cameras:
Firing flashes with perception
How often have you been disappointed about dark photos merely because the flash integrated in your camera was not powerful enough? And have you ever wanted a handy compact flash unit that can be used separately from the camera? Well Metz offers the perfect solution with the mecablitz 28 CS-2 digital - optimally adapted in performance and size to compact digital cameras! To this must be added the fun factor with the ingenious EASY mode. For the very first time the flash shot taken can be directly influenced with the instant correction keys (+/-)! This means simply release the shutter, check the result on the camera's monitor, and correct with the keys should this prove to be necessary. With this slave model the flash power can be boosted without any undesirable side-effects. The power is generated by normal alkaline size-AAA batteries or the equally inexpensive rechargeable AAA batteries.
Eager to learn
This is unique: A flash unit that learns on its own! The Metz mecablitz 28 CS-2 digital flash unit adapts itself optimally to the camera on account of its learning function. This ensures that this compact slave flash unit can always be fired by the flash integrated in the camera, even if it operates with a metering pre-flash. This exemplary ‘co-operation’ is achieved by test flash firing in slave mode. If the red indicator signal light (= ok button) flashes then this means that the flash unit has learnt a ‘new light lesson’. For all subsequent shots the Metz mecablitz 28 CS-2 digital will automatically use this value. Moreover, the delay period between the measuring pre-flash and the main flash can be set at any time between 0 and 255 ms. With cameras that do not operate with a pre-flash function it is possible to use the slave mode 1 (with simultaneous triggering). Yet it is always possible to return to the initial functions with the help of a special reset function. And then there is the ingenious concept of the folding side bracket to mount the camera!
Convenient instant correction in EASY mode Operation of the Metz mecablitz 28 CS-2 digital is unbelievably easy. The flash shot taken can be directly influenced with the plus/minus keys (+/-). Procedure: Take a flash shot with your digital camera – check the result on the camera’s monitor – and decide with the plus/minus keys whether the shot should be brighter or darker – An instant correction measure for all those who are not concerned with detailed values but rather good results.
Metz Press Release
Metz mecablitz 28 AF-3 digital - Optimized for compact digital cameras
The flash boost for your shots
Be it a garden party, wedding, child’s birthday or a luxury cruise - They are all those irretrievable moments in life that build up in the course of the years. Yet, in spite of the importance of the moment, the photographic results often turn out to be disappointing: Sometimes faces are too dark on account of the high contrasts between light and shadows. And then the colours are too flat because the camera’s internal flash was not powerful enough. The real answer is to be on the safe side with a Metz mecablitz 28 AF-3 digital. This small, clip-on flash unit is designed in technology and size to match optimally the compact digital cameras.
The new Metz unit operates fully automatically and is so handy that it will easily fit in your jacket pocket. Power can be supplied either by normal alkaline batteries or equally price-effective rechargeable batteries. Four variants are available for Canon, Konica Minolta, Nikon or Olympus - and they all feature the very latest "digital picture technologies".
Metz mecablitz 28 AF-3C for Canon cameras
With Canon E-TTL / FE flash exposure storage
Metz mecablitz 28 AF-3M for Konica Minolta cameras:
With Konica Minolta Dîmage TTL pre-flash metering / ADI flash metering on Konica Minolta digital cameras
Metz mecablitz 28 AF-3N for Nikon cameras:
With Nikon i-TTL / i-TTL BL flash control
Metz mecablitz 28 AF-3O for Olympus cameras:
With additional LED for AF measuring flash for TTL flash control with pre-flash function, on Olympus-Camedia.
Clever and smart
Compared with the flash integrated in cameras, Metz mecablitz 28 AF-3 digital offers a major benefit, namely power: Guide number 28 at ISO 100 / 210 and clip-on telephoto attachment. Both the telephoto attachment and wide-angle diffuser are included in the price. With regard to flash modes there is an additional manual setting and a manual setting with partial light output level. A special reset function ensures that the flash unit can be returned to the initial settings at any time.
The Vosonic X's-Drive Pro VP3310 is a 9-in-1 storage device with a 2.5inch 40GB hard drive, 2.5inch LCD and is compatible with all styles of memory cards.
DP Nowreviews the Vosonic X's-Drive Pro VP3310 and writes - 'Although Vosonic has endowed the X's Drive Pro VP3310 with a smart and stylish new look, the simplicity of the product is its key advantage. You aren't paying for a lot of additional features you may not value, like a colour preview screen and video playback, etc. The addition of a back light for the mono screen is welcome, but it should have been in the original X's Drive Pro VP300 anyway. Don't get too excited by the VP3310's very limited MP3 player capabilities but they might come in useful. Finally, while we don't care much for the unintuitive screen-based user-interface, the core task of reading cards and copying their contents is done simply and easily, though we'd like to see future models work faster.'
PhotographyBLOG reviews the Vosonic XS Drive Pro VP3310 and writes - 'The X'S Drive Pro VP3310 is a definite improvement over the original X'S Drive that I own. It's faster, more stylish, has added (although limited) MP3 playback capability, a backlit LCD screen that allows you to check what is stored on the device and is just as easy to use. At £200, it has the added advantage of not having a lot of competition - perhaps its main competitor is another Vosonic model, the IC Drive VP3610, which for only £10 more offers the same hard-drive capacity in a smaller and lighter body (because it uses a smaller 1.8 inch laptop hard-drive). The IC Drive does have a much-reduced battery time, just over 1 hour versus the X'S Drive Pro VP3310's 2 hours, doesn't have the backlit screen and you can't upgrade the internal hard-drive, so you will need to weigh up the pros and cons of each model before deciding.'
Learn more about the Vosonic X's-Drive Pro VP3310 from the following press release from Vosonic.
Vosonic Press Release
VOSONIC X'S-DRIVE PRO VP3310
9in1 Portable Storage Device with 40GB or more
Fast connection with USB 2.0 & Blue Backlight LCD Panel
MP3 Jukebox Player
Cardmedia (Europe) Ltd, the official UK distributor for the manufacturer Vosonic, has announced the availability of the X’S-Drive Pro VP3310, a new Portable Storage Device with enhanced LCD display + MP3 player, which features a blue Backlight LCD display and support long MP3 filenames.
Like the XS Drive Pro VP300, the Vosonic X'S-Drive Pro VP3310 combines all the X'S-Drive latest features; Fast USB 2.0 compatible interface, LCD panel to indicate detailed Working status, File transfer and battery power level.
The X'S-Drive Pro VP3310 allows the transfer of pictures and any other file from any memory card to its internal 2.5 inches hard drive.
It displays on its 2.5 inches LCD screen detailed information such as the names of files being transferred and the transfer progress status.
It can be used with all types of memory cards: Compactflash, IBM Microdrive, SmartMedia, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Secure Digital, MultiMediaCard, and xD picture card without any adapter.
The easy to use Copy function copies files from your memory cards with just the press of a button, and the names of the files being transferred are indicated on its LCD Panel.
It is also possible to copy file by file from the memory card to the HDD with its single file copy feature. The similar single file deletion feature allows to delete each file stored on the X’S-Drive Pro Hard disk or the memory card inserted
The X'S-Drive Pro includes built-in internal rechargeable batteries.
You can access the files stored on the Hard Drive via your computer with the new USB 2.0 Connection - you can also use the X'S-Drive Pro as a USB Combo card reader.
The RRP is for the X’S-Drive Pro VP3310 20GB is £209 incl VAT and the 60GB is £279 incl VAT.
The VP3310 is available in 2 versions: White and Black.
More information is available from www.xs-drive.com
The Vosonic XS Drive Super VP6210 is a device with the capabilities of viewing JPEG photos, playing MPEG-1 videos or MP3 - WMA music. It is available in 20GB to 80GB configurations and has a 2.5inch Hard disk and 2 inch LCD.
Learn more about the Vosonic XS Drive Super VP6210 from the following press release from Vosonic announcing it and the MMV VP6300,
Vosonic Press Release
VOSONIC NEW RANGE OF MULTIMEDIA X'S-DRIVES
- XS Drive Super VP6210
- MMV VP6300
Vosonic, the manufacturer based in Taiwan of the XS Drives, has announced the availability of two new MultiMedia XS Drives to complete its range of portable storage devices, which were shown at Photokina trade show.
The XS Drive Super VP6210 and MMV VP6300 enter the range as top specification devices providing via their 2" LCD display the possibility to view JPEG photos, play MPEG-1 videos or MP3 - WMA music.
The XS Drive Super is available from 20GB to 80GB and uses an internal 2.5" Hard disk, whereas the MMV is a more compact unit by using a 20GB 1.8" internal Hard disk.
Both units provide the exact same features:
- Copy from any memory card including Compactflash, MicroDrive, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Memory Stick Duo (via adapter), MMC, RS-MMC (via adapter), Secure Digital, mini SD (via adapter), Smartmedia, xD picture card to the internal Hard disk
- Copy selected files from the Hard disk (or a memory card) to a memory card inserted
- View JPEG photos up to 16 MegaPixels, run slideshow, view Exif information, Rotate by 90 degrees, Zoom in/out
- Play MPEG-1 or Motion JPEG in AVI or MOD format videos
- Play MP3 and WMA music
- Audio/Video outputs to plug to a TV and/or listen on headphones
- Infrared remote control is supplied
- 3 hours of battery life with the LCD Screen on (up to 6 hours when the LCD is in standby)
- USB 2.0 (USB 1.1 backward compatible) connection to a computer
- Faster transfer speed than current XS Drive models (VP2060, VP300, VP3310, VP3610)
The LCD Display and the control buttons provide an easy to use interface to copy files from your memory cards to the internal Hard disk, play the stored multimedia files, copy/paste files between the Hard disk and memory cards.
The X'S-Drive Super and the MMV include built-in internal rechargeable batteries using a Li-ion 3.7V 1800 mAh FujiFilm NP-120 battery.
You can access the files stored on the Hard Drive via your computer with the new USB 2.0 Connection - you can also use the X'S-Drives as a USB Combo card reader.
The RRP is for the X’S-Drive Super 20GB will be 275 Euros ex VAT / £275 incl VAT
The RRP is for the MMV 20GB will be 400 Euros ex VAT / £315 incl VAT
More information is available from www.xs-drive.com
The Vosonic MMV VP6300 is a device with the capabilities of viewing JPEG photos, playing MPEG-1 videos or MP3 - WMA music. It has a 20GB 1.8inch Hard drive and 2inch LCD.
Learn more about the Vosonic XS Drive Super VP6210 from the following press release from Vosonic announcing it and the MMV VP6300,
Vosonic Press Release
VOSONIC NEW RANGE OF MULTIMEDIA X'S-DRIVES
- XS Drive Super VP6210
- MMV VP6300
Vosonic, the manufacturer based in Taiwan of the XS Drives, has announced the availability of two new MultiMedia XS Drives to complete its range of portable storage devices, which were shown at Photokina trade show.
The XS Drive Super VP6210 and MMV VP6300 enter the range as top specification devices providing via their 2" LCD display the possibility to view JPEG photos, play MPEG-1 videos or MP3 - WMA music.
The XS Drive Super is available from 20GB to 80GB and uses an internal 2.5" Hard disk, whereas the MMV is a more compact unit by using a 20GB 1.8" internal Hard disk.
Both units provide the exact same features:
- Copy from any memory card including Compactflash, MicroDrive, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Memory Stick Duo (via adapter), MMC, RS-MMC (via adapter), Secure Digital, mini SD (via adapter), Smartmedia, xD picture card to the internal Hard disk
- Copy selected files from the Hard disk (or a memory card) to a memory card inserted
- View JPEG photos up to 16 MegaPixels, run slideshow, view Exif information, Rotate by 90 degrees, Zoom in/out
- Play MPEG-1 or Motion JPEG in AVI or MOD format videos
- Play MP3 and WMA music
- Audio/Video outputs to plug to a TV and/or listen on headphones
- Infrared remote control is supplied
- 3 hours of battery life with the LCD Screen on (up to 6 hours when the LCD is in standby)
- USB 2.0 (USB 1.1 backward compatible) connection to a computer
- Faster transfer speed than current XS Drive models (VP2060, VP300, VP3310, VP3610)
The LCD Display and the control buttons provide an easy to use interface to copy files from your memory cards to the internal Hard disk, play the stored multimedia files, copy/paste files between the Hard disk and memory cards.
The X'S-Drive Super and the MMV include built-in internal rechargeable batteries using a Li-ion 3.7V 1800 mAh FujiFilm NP-120 battery.
You can access the files stored on the Hard Drive via your computer with the new USB 2.0 Connection - you can also use the X'S-Drives as a USB Combo card reader.
The RRP is for the X’S-Drive Super 20GB will be 275 Euros ex VAT / £275 incl VAT
The RRP is for the MMV 20GB will be 400 Euros ex VAT / £315 incl VAT
More information is available from www.xs-drive.com
Olympus Press Release
Setting your life to music
The Olympus m:robe – a musical memory maker
Today Olympus announce their intention to redefine the world of personal imaging and musical entertainment with the revolutionary m:robe concept.
The Olympus m:robe MR-500i
Comprising of a 1.22 million pixel digital camera, an image viewer and a music player all in one the m:robe MR-500i combines the energy of music with the power of pictures to bring your photographs to life. With the m:robe it’s easy to weave together images and sounds to make the difference between a picture and a memory - amazing adventures and experiences can be recorded in photo albums and combined with the tracks that evoke the mood of the moment - letting you view the special moments of your life while you listen to your own personal soundtrack.
The m:robe looks great too. An eye-catching clean and minimalist design together with a distinctive touch pad control ensure it will be the next ‘must have’ buy for the style conscious consumer. The m:robe MR-500i is planned for release in early 2005.
Olympus has a long history of offering cutting-edge solutions in the rapidly changing photography and audio worlds and the MR-500i is no exception. Giving picture-taking a musical twist, photography becomes an even more fun and creative experience. With the help of a ground-breaking touch pad controller (receptive to the gliding of a fingertip) images, sounds and special visual effects can be combined in ‘Remix Play’ mode. The results can then be presented either on the unit’s large VGA display or a TV screen back home. Thanks to its 20GB memory capacity the MR-500i is able to store thousands of songs and images and there’s even plenty of room to load your favourite pictures from your private archived photo collection.
The m:robe is packaged alongside Olympus m:trip music and image software. The software manages music and image data, converting CD tracks into WMA format. Great music, cutting-edge visuals and a progressive design are some of today’s consumer products’ most essential traits. Put them together and you have the m:robe MR-500i.
The Olympus MR-500i – main features:
• Music and picture remix function
• 20GB hard disk drive motion music player. Stores up to 5,000 songs (at 128kpbs/title in WMA format), or 20,000 images*
• Touch pad control screen, 9.4cm colour LCD with high resolution (640 x 480 pixels)
• WMA and MP3 music player
• Music album function
• Up to 8 hours battery life
• Integrated 1.22 million pixel camera
(lens equivalent to 35mm on 35mm camera)
• Calendar function
• Shipped with m:trip software, earphones and remote control
• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed
• PictBridge compatible
* At 1MB file size each
The Olympus m:robe MR-100
With the m:robe MR-100 from Olympus, you will quite literally have music at your fingertips. It’s a digital audio player with a difference – operation is via a touch pad control so fiddling with buttons and dials will become a thing of the past. All you get is pure listening pleasure in an ultra-compact, head-turning design.
This m:robe model provides a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed port and features 5GB storage capacity for around 1,200 songs and plays both WMA and MP3 file formats so music management is hassle free. The m:trip software takes care of virtually everything, including conversion of CD audio files into WMA format on a PC. Loading tracks onto the player couldn’t be simpler - just dock the MR-100 on the USB 2.0-compatible cradle, which also doubles as the battery charger, and download. In no time at all, you’ll be humming along to your favourite tunes. Any time, anywhere.
The Olympus MR-100 – main features:
• 5GB hard disk audio player with touch pad control
• WMA and MP3 file formats (approx. 1,200 songs at 128kbps/title in WMA format)
• Comes with earphones, soft case, m:trip software, docking cradle and remote control
• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed
For more information and where to buy Olympus products please go to www.olympus.co.uk or call free on 0800 072 0070.
Olympus have just announced their i:robe 'Easy Imaging System' - a portable digital photography lab that incorporates a digital camera (the 4MP IR-500 with 2.5inch swingable LCD), home printer (the P-S100), 40 GB hard disk drive(S-HD-100 which holds up to 40,000 images) and in the future a DVD burner.
Olympus Press Release
Bringing the photo album to life
The Olympus Easy Imaging System - store and print digital images on the go
13 October 2004. Printing and archiving digital photos whilst on the go just got easier. There’s no need to lug a laptop around any more or wait until you get home to print or share pictures. Thanks to the Olympus Easy Imaging System it is easy to take, share and store great digital pictures anywhere.
The Olympus Easy Imaging System incorporates a digital camera, home printer, hard disk drive and in the future a DVD burner. It is astonishingly simple. Dock the components together and a comprehensive, but ultra-compact digital photography lab is ready to go. It’s easy to use too - both the camera and printer are PictBridge compatible, so prints can be instantly developed without the need for a PC.
With compact dimensions, the Easy Imaging System can be used and transported virtually anywhere making it is the ideal home or travel accessory. A contemporary, aesthetic design means it would not look out of place in even the most stylish living rooms.
The Camera – IR-500
Great photos are assured with the IR-500 digital camera. Featuring 4 mega-pixels, a 2.8x optical zoom and 17 pre-set scene programmes, the IR-500 can shoot in a wide range of conditions and styles. With a 360° swivel sunshine LCD monitor measuring 2.5 inch, images can be shared even under strong light and from any angle.
Incorporating several picture showcase special effects, the camera’s docking station acts as a sophisticated slideshow stand where images can be viewed in fade or mosaic modes. The calendar function also eliminates the need to waste time searching for particular images, instead dated files can be accessed immediately.
The camera specification highlights include:
• 4.0 megapixels
• Multi-swing display with 360° rotation
• 6.35cm/2.5 inch high-definition LCD monitor
• 17 scene programmes
• Camera shake protection in movie mode
• AV output (when using supplied docking station)
• PictBridge compatible & USB 2.0 Storage Class support
• Olympus Master software
The Hard Disk Drive - S-HD-100
The hard disk drive can store an amazing 40,000 images (in four million pixel resolution) eliminating the need to load imagery onto a PC. It can archive up to 40GB of shots and features a USB 2.0 port for the printer and camera. With a handy comparison mode (HDD) the hard disk drive automatically checks your saved images for unwanted doubles ensuring efficient storage.
The hard disk drive specification highlights include:
• 40GB capacity
• Multiple image file management functions
• USB 2.0 Storage Class support
• Olympus Master software
The Printer - P-S100
The camera and docking station connect straight into the P-S100 printer, which delivers high quality prints thanks to dye-sublimation technology. The printer specification highlights include:
• High-quality 306 dpi dye-sublimation printing
• Borderless 148 x 100mm prints
• Prints in approx. 85 seconds
• PictBridge compatible & USB 2.0 Storage Class support
• 50-sheet paper in-tray
Extreme Tech has a good post on one photographers journey from film to digital photography
'I've finally given up on film photography.
Actually, I'd really given up on film several years ago, but have been in denial about it. While I'd been using good point-and-shoot digital cameras for the past two or three years, I stubbornly clung to my Nikon N70 35mm single lens reflex camera. After all, I had several lenses plus an external speedlight I'd invested in.
In truth, though, the N70 just sat in a drawer, along with the lenses.
Instead, I've either been using a Minolta DiMAGE 7Hi I'd bought for product shoots, or a tiny Minolta XT for trade shows. The 7Hi, with its f2.8, 7x zoom and 5.1 megapixel sensor became my workhorse camera. I even used it for action sports photography, though the lens and shutter were a bit too slow for indoor sports. The 3.3 megapixel XT, with its nifty folded lens, has been a mainstay for trade shows and other occasions when a very compact camera has been needed.">from Film to Digital technology.
Imaging resource have just posted image samples of the Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D in their image gallery.
Buy the Konica Minolta 7D
Olympus Press Release
Olympus Introduces i:robe IR-500 New-Concept Digital Camera and Dedicated "Dock & Done" Digital Photo Printer and Hard Disk Storage Device
- New-concept style and "Dock & Done" convenience for easy image storage and printing -
Olympus Imaging Corporation (President: Hiroshi Komiya) is pleased to announce the introduction of the i:robe IR-500 new-concept digital camera for a new digital photo lifestyle, and supporting peripherals that include the S-HD-100 hard disk storage device and the P-S100 digital photo printer.The i:robe IR-500 camera and its peripherals, connected viaa dedicated cradle , offer a comprehensive "Dock & Done" image printing and storage solution.
The newly introduced Dock & Done functionality was developed by Olympus to simplify connection and operation so that digital cameras and related peripherals are easier and more fun to use. Users simply "dock" the digital camera in its dedicated cradle and they're "done" - image storage and printing can be performed without even using a computer. In fact, with Dock & Done, users can shoot, review, save, search, view, display, and share their photos with greater ease than ever before.
"Olympus IR-500 with Docking Station
The new-concept digital camera that supports Dock & Done functionality is called the "i:robe IR-500" because it can be carried anywhere, anytime, allowing users to "robe" themselves in "images" wherever they go. It is the first Olympus camera to feature a multi-swing display that can be rotated 360 degrees for versatile shooting in a wide range of situations, including low-angle/high-angle shooting and self-portrait shooting. The multi-swing display also ensures carefree portability because it protects both the display and the lens when in the closed position. S-HD-100 storage device, equipped with a CPU and USB hub funcitionality, incorporates a 40GB hard disk drive that can hold approximately 40,000 4-megapixel images, while the compact P-S100 digital photo printer can produce postcard and L-size photo prints. Both peripheral devices support Dock & Done functionality, as well as personal computer connectivity.
White is used as the signature color for all products. Reminiscent of white porcelainware that sets off the beauty of the items it contains, the color scheme ensures timeless beauty and compatibility with a variety of interior decorating schemes.
Olympus believes that precious everyday photos are a form of "personal content," and proposes a "New Photo Life Solution" as a total solution concept for a rich new photo lifestyle. With the introduction of these new products with Dock & Done functionality, it proposes a new way to enjoy photos and a new photo lifestyle that it hopes will contribute to the development of a new imaging culture.
Design Concept
The i:robe IR-500 digital camera and related peripherals reflect a rigorous commitment to design excellence. The design concept uses white as a signature color to ensure compatibility with product surroundings, and to project an image of cleanliness, gentleness, and simplicity. The design has a timeless beauty reminiscent of white porcelainware, which, rather than making a strong style statement of its own, tends to draw attention to the beauty of the flowers or foods that it contains. In the same way, i:robe products are designed to be like "white porcelain vessels" that enhance the beauty of the digital photos they hold.
Main Features
i:robe IR-500, S-HD-100 Hard Disk Storage Device and P-S100 Digital Photo Printer Shared Features
1. Dock & Done Support
In addition to digital photo shooting, the three products support convenient Dock & Done photo storage, management, and printing for more carefree shooting and easy image handling. The combination of an i:robe IR-500 and a S-HD-100 hard disk storage device allows images to be stored simply by docking the i:robe IR-500 in its cradle — the use of a PC is not required. By further adding an P-S100 digital photo printer, images for which a print reservation has been set can be easily printed after they have been stored*1.
*1 Optional KP16 Cable required to connect the P-S100 digital photo printer to the S-HD-100 hard disk storage device.
2. White Signature Color and Unified "White Porcelain" Design Concept
All of the New Photo Life Solution products being introduced at this time feature a white signature color. Reminiscent of white porcelainware that sets off the beauty of the items it contains, the color scheme ensures timeless beauty and compatibility with a variety of interior decorating schemes.
Multi-Swing Display-Equipped New-Concept i:robe IR-500 Features
The "i:robe" is a new Olympus digital camera brand that takes its name from the fact that the i:robe IR-500 digital camera allows users to "robe" themselves in their favorite images wherever they go. The i:robe IR-500 is a new concept digital camera that features Dock & Done functionality, sophisticated design with a white signature color, and a multi-swing display that rotates 360° for easy shooting anywhere.
1. Multi-Swing Display with 360° Rotation
The i:robe IR-500 is the first Olympus camera to feature a multi-swing display with 360° rotation capability. By rotating the display, users can use it to view their subject when taking low-angle, high-angle, and a wide range of other shots. When closed, the multi-swing display also ensures carefree portability by protecting both the lens and the LCD screen.
2. Self Portrait Mode Shooting
The multi-swing display's 360° rotation capability makes it easy to shoot self-portraits as well as other people and scenery. Users can view themselves on the LCD screen while shooting, and use the camera's Self Portrait mode to ensure optimum exposures.
3. Movie Mode Camera Shake Correction
In Movie mode, digital camera shake correction can be applied to reduce image unsteadiness and and camera shake worries.
4. 2.5-Inch High-Definition LCD Makes Viewing More Fun
A 210,000-pixel high-definition semi-transmissive LCD monitor maximizes the advantages of both transmissive and reflective technologies to assure excellent visibility and high picture quality even when viewed in bright outdoor light.
5. Photo Diary Calendar Function
Photos taken are automatically organized into a calendar display format according to the date taken. A choice of 1-month, 12-month, and multi-year calendar views makes it easy to find photos quickly.
6. Custom Photo Albums
An Album function allows images in the camera to be organized in 12 separate albums for easy viewing. Each album can hold up to 100 images. As a result, users can carry their favorite photos right in the camera, and enjoy viewing them wherever and whenever they wish.
7. Advanced Slide Show Functions
An automatic slideshow function provides continuous playback of stored images. A total of 9 transition effects are offered, including Normal, Scroll, Fade, Zoom Down and Random. It's a fun feature that makes viewing more enjoyable.
8. OLYMPUS Master*2 Image Editing and File Management Software Included
OLYMPUS Master image editing and file management software with intuitive calendar-type GUI is included with the i:robe IR-500. Features include image downloading, image correction, slideshow playback, printing, and other functions.
*2 OLYMPUS Master operating requirements
Windows: Pentium III 500MHz or better, Windows 98SE / Me / 2000 Professional / XP
Macintosh: PowerPC G3 500MHz or better, Mac OS X v10.2 or higher.
9. Other Features
17 Scene Program Modes
17 Scene Program modes are offered to suit a wide variety of shooting situations. The modes are preprogrammed with optimized color balance, brightness, shutter speed, and other settings, allowing users to obtain beautiful results simply by pressing the shutter button.
PictBridge Support*3
PictBridge support allows direct photo printing to any PictBridge-enabled printer.
*3 CIPA approval pending as of October 13, 2004.
4-Megapixel Image Quality
A high-performance 2.8x zoom lens and high-resolution 4-megapixel CCD ensure high image quality in a compact body.
Thin Body with Folded Light Path Lens Unit
A folded light path lens unit packs 2.8x optical zoom power into the camera's exceptionally thin body.
Clock Display
Clock and alarm functions are built-in, with a choice of digital time display or graph-type "designer clock" time display.
AV Output (when using cradle)
An AV output allows images to be displayed on a standard TV.
Hi-Speed USB 2.0 Interface (when using cradle)
Fast image file downloading is offered via the IR-500's dedicated cradle, which has a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interface that can be connected to the user's PC via USB cable.
Storage Class USB
Support for mass storage class USB allows the IR-500 to be connected directly to a PC via the cradle for easy image file transfer.
S-HD-100 Hard Disk Storage Device with Built-In CPU
The S-HD-100 provides hard disk storage via a USB interface. It can be connected to a PC and used as a conventional external hard disk device, or used for direct Dock & Done storage of digital camera image files without using a PC.
1. Intelligent Image File Management Functions
S-HD-100 is equipped with a CPU for intelligent image file management. When downloading images from a digital camera that supports Dock & Done functionality, it offers an incremental download function that checks each image to see if it has been downloaded previously, and only downloads those that are new.
2. High-Capacity 40GB Hard Disk
S-HD-100 offers outstanding storage capacity with a 40GB hard disk capable of holding approximately 40,000 4-megapixel-class images*4.
*4 i:robe IR-500 Super High 4M mode images.
3. OLYMPUS Master Image Editing and File Management Software Included
Included OLYMPUS Master software features an intuitive calendar-type GUI that makes image editing and file management easy.
4. Conventional Digital Camera Connection Capability*5
The use of an optional TA-PA7 adapter allows image files to be downloaded to S-HD-100 from any USB mass storage class digital camera without using a PC (Incremental Download function not supported).
*5 Updated information about supported cameras is available.
5. Compact and Easy-to-Carry Size
Measuring only about 13cm square, and weighing just 310g., S-HD-100 is compact enough to be used for portable image and movie storage. As a result, users can shoot images and movies without worrying about their camera's memory capacity.
6. Easy USB Connectivity
Support for mass storage class USB allows the S-HD-100 to be used as a personal computer external storage device without installing any driver software on the PC.
P-S100 Digital Photo Printer for Postcard and L-Size Print Output
The P-S100 is a digital photo printer for producing postcard and standard L-size photo prints. Compact in size, it has a white body and attractive, high-quality design. It also supports Dock & Done functionality and direct printing from any PictBridge-enabled digital camera.
1. Easy-Loading Paper In-Tray Cases
The P-S100 uses dedicated Paper In-Tray Case / Ribbon Cartridge units (Postcard size: P-P50SP, L-size: P-L50S; 50-sheets each). The cases can be inserted directly into the P-S100, assuring exceptionally easy paper loading, with no danger that media will be soiled by fingerprints or handling. Higher-than-normal 50-sheet capacity also reduces the need for frequent paper replenishment.
2. Photo Print Cases
Index seals and a case cap are included with dedicated Paper In-Tray Cases, allowing them to be used to organize and store finished prints.
3. 50-Sheet Paper In-Tray Case / Ribbon Cartridge Included
A 50-sheet Paper In-Tray Case / Ribbon Cartridge is included with the P-S100 so that users can begin printing right away.
4. High Quality Dye-Sublimation Printing
16.77-million color reproduction ensures beautiful, vibrant print quality. A light- and moisture-resistant overcoating ensures long-lasting beauty.
5. Other Features
Borderless Printing on L-Size and Postcard-Size Media
Border area is perforated to allow easy removal when producing borderless prints. The border area can also be used for writing titles or comments that aid in organization.
PictBridge Support*6 for Direct Digital Camera Printing via USB Cable
Direct printing from any PictBridge-enabled digital camera is supported; prints can be produced simply by connecting the camera to the printer. Printing from a PC is also supported.
*6 CIPA approval pending as of October 13, 2004.
New Olympus i:robe / m:robe Brand Website
A new i:robe/m:robe-branded website is being set up at http://robe-gate.jp/. In addition to i:robe and m:robe product information it will feature a rotating gallery of works created by various creative artists using the i:robe and m:robe. A free download of m:trip software for m:robe music and image file management will also be offered for a limited time only. Ultimately, the new website will serve as a one-stop information and resource center for i:robe/m:robe digital image and music content creation.
CNET has reviewed the Olympus IR-500 and writes - 'The Olympus IR-500 wants to be the iPod of digital cameras: cool, convenient, and especially versatile in playback mode. Although it's a competent enough 4-megapixel snapshot camera, with 17 scene modes--but only a limited 2.8X 40mm-to-112mm (35mm-camera equivalent) zoom lens--it really excels as a playback device. Nestled in the bundled docking station, it can display any of 12 different slide shows, each with as many as 100 voice-narrated pictures. Lengthy shows are most practical when you link the dock to the optional 16-ounce 40GB S-HD-100 hard drive. The IR-500 has nine PowerPoint-like transition effects, including zoom up and down, checkerboards, faders, swivels, and Venetian blinds. It can also display your images sorted by shooting date, as a sort of visual diary. The slide show and "diary" modes have their own easy-access positions on the mode dial.'
"Olympus IR-500 with Docking Station
PC Magazine have a good article on Histograms - they write:
'A search in pcmag.com for the word histo-gram reveals that dozens of cameras have this feature, and occasionally a review notes its disappointing absence. You may have seen these references or come across the histogram on your camera, and wondered what the heck a histogram is and why you should care.
Histograms are not widely understood, but taking a few moments to learn about them can improve your photography significantly. Histograms can show you clearly and immediately whether your images are overexposed, underexposed, or just right, and help you to make any necessary changes in order to compensate when reshooting the scene.'
For more tips on using Histograms check out our Histogram Tips collection.
Canon have released a firmware (1.0.3) update for their Canon EOS-1D Mark II. It has the following improvements:
- Added new functions for communicating with the Speedlite 580EX
- Reduced noise when shooting bulb exposures
- Fixed sensor-cleaning operations
Download the Canon EOS-1D Mark II Firmware Update 1.0.3 here
Found via DP Review
InfoTrends/CAP Ventures Press Release
Digital Camera Ownership Moving Deeper into Mainstream Market, According to New InfoTrends/CAP Ventures Study
(Weymouth, MA) October, 12 2004... Each year since 1997, InfoTrends/CAP Ventures has conducted surveys to track the adoption and usage of digital cameras. This year’s survey of U.S. Internet households shows the penetration of digital cameras increasing to 59% of Internet households, up from 45% in 2003. As a result of rising penetration, the demographics of digital camera owners are shifting towards people of more moderate means. Additionally, women are increasingly more likely to own digital cameras and to spur the purchasing decision for the household.
While the demographics of digital camera owners continue to shift towards representing the average Internet user, digital camera owners still show a greater tendency to acquire new technology than non-owners. Digital camera owners’ advanced approach to new technologies is reflected in their technology ownership and product usage covered throughout the study. For example, 26% of digital camera households have a wireless home network, compared to 16% of non-owners.
“Since digital camera manufacturers are expected to introduce WiFi-enabled digital cameras in 2005, this study shows that there is already a growing potential market for WiFi-enabled digital cameras,” says Michelle Slaughter, Director of Digital Photography Trends at InfoTrends/CAP Ventures. “As the consumer digital camera market matures, it’s important for manufacturers to consider emerging sub-segments like this one to target a growing market of replacement digital camera buyers, who are initially more likely to appreciate advanced features, such as WiFi-enabled cameras.”
The study also provides in-depth coverage of digital camera users’ purchasing decisions and feature preferences. There are slight changes from year-to-year in overall preferences, but profiles of a variety of digital camera user segments show greater differences in users’ preferences. This year, the study examines differences between owners of basic point & shoot 3X zoom cameras and those who own ultra-compact or extended zoom (>3X) cameras. Manufacturers can use these profiles and others to refine their strategy for various segments of the market.
InfoTrends/CAP Ventures’ new report entitled 2004 Digital Camera Survey: End User and Non-User Analysis is obtainable immediately. The 90-page analysis with 80 figures and two sets of 120+ page tabulations reveals detailed trends related to digital camera hardware, printing, storage, applications, pricing, purchase channel, demographics, user segments, and more. A related study entitled 2004 Consumer Digital Camera Forecast and Analysis is also available.
About InfoTrends/CAP Ventures
InfoTrends/CAP Ventures is the leading worldwide market research and strategic consulting firm for the digital imaging and document solutions industries. InfoTrends/CAP Ventures provides research, analysis, forecasts, and advice to help clients understand market trends, identify opportunities, and develop strategies to grow their businesses. Additional information about InfoTrends/CAP Ventures is available on the Web at www.infotrends-rgi.com.
'Photographic equipment manufacturer Kodak’s decision to axe hundreds of UK jobs follows a “fundamental shift in customer and consumer behaviour” which has seen digital photography come to the fore.
Public demand for traditional film has dropped off as digital cameras become cheaper to buy and easier to use, forcing firms to adapt and to develop the latest technologies, experts said.
The changing face of the home photo industry has led to US-based manufacturer Kodak’s plans to cut 600 jobs and to shut its photo film finishing plant in Annesley, Nottingham, as part of a global restructuring programme.
Colin Martin, director of commercial sales for high street photographic retailer Jessops, said two main factors had affected the industry over the last three years.
“Digital cameras have increased in performance to the extent they’re now on a par with traditional film and their prices have come down,” he said.
“They’re neater, sexier and are offering better performance.”'
Read more at Digital Revolution in Home Photography
More news on the Apple iPod with Photo Viewer built in - from the Australian News Paper.
'APPLE is close to releasing a new generation of iPod with a colour screen and photo-capable software, according to an online report.
The new photo-capable iPod would arrive within two months and feature a 60GB hard drive, Apple news website Think Secret reports.
Quoting "highly reliable sources", the report says other new features would include a 2-inch colour display and software for synchronisation with Apple's iPhoto software. Also included is a video-out port enabling the iPod to connect to a television.
Photo software would work in much the same manner as the music software included with current generation iPods.
An Apple Australia spokeswoman declined to comment on the report.'
'Look at digital camera ads today, and you’d think the number of pixels was the only factor that mattered in choosing a camera. While the number of pixels in important, there are many other elements that affect the quality of an image.
If you studied a digital camera’s image sensor under a powerful microscope, you’d see a flat sheet made of several layers of silicon, with row after row of holes in the top layer. Each hole is a pixel, sometimes referred to as a “well.” That’s not a bad way to think about them because the light energy that falls into those holes is what’s captured when you take a digital photo.
When you snap a digital picture, the camera’s lens focuses the image onto all those pixels on the image sensor. If a pixel is in the bright part of a scene, a lot of photons land in the well and produce a relatively big electrical charge. In a darker part of the image, less photons are captured in the pixel, resulting in a smaller electrical charge. The size of the electrical charge in each pixel is the information that goes into making a digital photograph.' Read more at Beyond the Mega Pixel - PC Photomag
Delkin Devices Press Release
DELKIN'S PORTABLE BURNAWAY COMBINES A CD BURNER, CARD READER & DVD PLAYER IN ONE DEVICE FOR A SRP £199.99
Delkin Devices Inc is now shipping the BurnAway portable combo media player.
The BurnAway is a versatile mobile CD burner that combines a number of today's most popular digital electronic devices in one unit.
The BurnAway features a Slim Type DVD/CD-R/RW Drive, and works as a memory card reader, a digital slideshow player that shows photographs on TV and a DVD/MP3/CD player.
The unit operates independently of a computer and can be a lifesaver for traveling photographers looking for a quick and easy way to burn the contents of their memory card to a CD-R. Two built-in memory card slots support CompactFlash (I&II), Microdrives, SD, MMC, SmartMedia, Memory Stick and MS PRO. The BurnAway also supports XD cards with an adapter (not included).
New high-resolution cameras need additional memory to accommodate larger file sizes, making the BurnAway a perfect solution for quickly clearing memory cards on the go so you can keep shooting.
Connecting the BurnAway to a computer via High-Speed USB 2.0 also enables it to function as a card reader and external DVD/CD-R/RW Drive. You can share photos with family and friends in seconds by directly connecting the BurnAway to any television (NTSC or PAL), and display a slideshow of your images directly from either your memory card or CD-R. The unit's remote control (included) allows you to customize your slideshow presentation with zoom, rotate and transition features. The BurnAway also functions as a DVD-ROM drive, which easily connects to a TV or stereo so you can watch DVDs or listen to MP3s and audio CDs.
There are so many exciting electronic products available to consumers today. We want to offer our base of customers who are passionate about digital photography fun, affordable devices that encompass all that the digital age has to offer. The BurnAway is the perfect all-in-one solution.
It transfers memory card and CD files like a card reader to a computer, burns CD-R's on the fly without the need for a computer, connects to a TV and plays DVDs or slideshows of your photo CDs, and allows you to use your headphones and listen to audio CDs. This truly is a self contained little gadget that can do it all".
The BurnAway comes with a stylish protective carrying case, a remote control, a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery and DC power cord (100V-240V), a USB 2.0 cable for connecting to a computer and both S-Video and RCA cables for connecting to a TV or projector. You can burn up to six 700MB CD-R discs or play up to 2 ½ hours of a DVD on a single battery charge. Optional accessories include a car charger and rechargeable back-up batteries. A multi-language user manual is included, along with fully functional Nero OEM Suite 2 CD burning software and Adobe Photoshop™ Elements 2.0 photo editing software (an added £49.99 value). The BurnAway comes with a two year warranty and is available at consumer photography and electronic stores worldwide and online at Delkin's website at www.delkin.com.
The unit combines a wide variety of uses, which makes it ideal for both work and play:
Digital photographers who insist on traveling light can burn their memory cards directly to CD-Rs so they can clear their cards, keep shooting and leave their laptops at home.
PowerPointTM presentations stored on a memory card or CD can be shown on a monitor and then copied from the memory card to a CD-R to leave with clients.
You can enjoy DVD's on the road by hooking the BurnAway up to a TV in your hotel.
The BurnAway can be used with or without a computer. Files are transferred to a computer via high speed USB 2.0 from either the unit's memory card slot or CD. BurnAway works with both Windows (98,ME, 2000 SP3 and XP) and Mac (OS 10.3 and above).
The BurnAway will be a terrific companion for both consumer and professional digital camera users. Here's a great way to not only save money on memory, but have fun while you save.
It is portable, easy to use, and convenient. When you consider the strong two year warranty, the range of functions it offers and the inclusion of a free copy of Adobe's Photoshop Elements, the BurnAway is not only an incredible value, but the best product of its kind on the market.
Acronis Press Release
Phoenix Global Software launches Acronis True Image 8.0 into UK retail.
Acronis True Image 8.0 delivers comprehensive workstation protection - the complete disk imaging, system disk backup, and bare metal restore for workstations and home PCs.
London - October 11, 2004 - Acronis, Inc., the technological leader in storage management solutions, has launched Acronis True Image 8.0, the latest upgrade to its expanding family of award-winning workstation and server disk imaging, backup, and bare-metal restore software. Acronis True Image 8.0 is the easiest, most convenient and intuitive disk imaging, backup and system restore software you've ever seen. It's automated, wizard-driven operations make the backup and restore functions extremely to complete.
Acronis True Image 8.0 allows users to create the exact disk image of live workstations for a complete file and system backup, providing a comprehensive and cost-effective protection solution. The disk image file includes amongst others, the computer data including the operating system, programs, software updates and patches, data files, configurations, preference settings, e-mails, pictures and MP3 files. After a fatal system failure, you can restore the entire drive contents to a known, working state or simply replace the lost or corrupted files and folders.
Based on the Exclusive Acronis Drive Snapshot disk imaging technology, Acronis True Image allows you to create an online system backup without the reboot to keep the system productive. The product provides the fastest bare metal restore dramatically reducing and, therefore your IT costs.
New features included in Acronis True Image 8.0 are the ability to exclude paging/hibernate files from the disk image and assign the priority for the disk imaging process to enable the PC to prioritise between disk imaging and other applications. This reduces disk backup time and storage. True Image 8.0 also allows for the verification of a disk image before executing the Restore command and File system checking after restoring an image.
Main Features:
- Create the online disk backup image.
- Restore the entire system and/or individual files and folders.
- Create and restore online disk backup images in Windows without reboot.
- Schedule automated backups.
- Create incrementals disk backup images.
- Built-in disk image verification tool.
- Clone and upgrade disk drives.
- View backup logs.
- Automated, wizard driven-operations.
“The necessity of having a reliable backup of your system has never been more crucial,” said Max Tsypliaev, CEO of Acronis. “As corporate, mission-critical data continues to migrate to the desktop and multimedia PCs become more entrenched as essential parts of consumers’ leisure time, guaranteeing the accessibility of data and applications is paramount. In addition,” he continued, “being able to perform a bare-metal recovery of lost corporate data in minutes rather than hours or days delivers benefits directly to the company’s bottom line.”
“Users have become more dependent on their computers, and time is a most precious commodity,” said Stephen Lawton, director of marketing. “Creating a smaller, more efficient image will significantly increase the speed of creating the image, and eliminating temporary data will significantly decrease the size of the image. Together,” he continued, “these features, along with more verification processes, further ensure that the images users create will be exact duplicates of the disks. The images will also be created and restored faster.”
Price and Availability:
Phoenix Global Software Ltd. will republish, market and distribute the Acronis family of security, disaster recovery and PC/server management products to retail outlets in the UK, Ireland and South Africa. Acronis True Image 8.0 is available from all leading UK retailers including Amazon and PC World stores at an RRP of £29.99 inc. VAT.
About Acronis:
Acronis offers storage management solutions that are technically advanced for mission-critical applications but easy to use. The company provides disaster recovery, backup and restore, partitioning, boot management, privacy, data migration, and other storage management products for enterprises, corporations and consumers. Acronis has offices in the Unites States, Europe and Asia and sells its products through retail outlets, resellers and on the Web. For additional information, please visit www.acronis.com
About Phoenix Global Software:
Established in 2003, Phoenix Global Software has already gained a foothold in the European software distribution and republishing market. The UK business is the sister company of Phoenix Software SA, which is a well established IT distributor and republisher in South Africa, founded in September 1999. Phoenix supplies a wide range of new and established software products to distribution in the United Kingdom and Sub Saharan African channels. The company focuses on software that is niche and aimed at various vertical markets, delivering software to the retail and reseller channel via strong relationships with UK distribution. Its subsidiary, Computrolley.com, supplies direct to the corporate, education and end-user channels. Phoenix Global Software has an ongoing mission to provide leading-edge products, providing market leadership opportunities by always bringing new and exciting applications to the market place.
Cerious Software Press Release
ThumbsPlus 7.0 offers more features than any other digital content management software!
CHARLOTTE, NC, October 6, 2004 - Cerious Software, Inc. has released its full-featured ThumbsPlus v7.0 for Windows, one of the leading software solutions for digital content management for over 10 years, and well known on the Internet for the best customer support in the business! Unlike most competing products, ThumbsPlus is completely database-driven which allows sophisticated features such as: extensive search capabilities, search by similarity, user defined fields, image galleries, and management of offline disks, even across a local network.
ThumbsPlus 7.0 offers more features than ANY other digital image management software! Please read all about the new look and feel of ThumbsPlus as well as a list of the new features including 16-bit image processing as well as options for creating, handling and viewing alpha channels in 24-bit and 48-bit images. ThumbsPlus v7.0 has also added support for many other database programs such as Oracle, DBase, MYSQL and others.
The software is available directly from the Cerious web site, or by calling 877-CERIOUS (877-237-4687) toll free. It may also be purchased from select resellers. ThumbsPlus has an MSRP of US$49.95 for the Standard Edition and US$89.95 for the Pro Edition.
Cerious Software has also released two plug-ins: a DigiCam plug-in and a Postscript plug-in. The DigiCam plug-in supports almost all of the digital camera raw formats from Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, Fuji, Leica, Sony, Kodak and Minolta. The Postscript plug-in supports EPS, PDF and AI files.
For more information on the DigiCam plug-in, please visit the DigiCam Plug-in page.
For more information on the Postscript plug-in, please visit the Postscript Plug-in page.
For over 10 years, Cerious® Software has been a progressive developer of image software products. With more than 1 million users worldwide, ThumbsPlus® is one of the leading software applications for Windows image management.
"....Another perennial favorite is Cerious Software's peerless ThumbsPlus...this tool is a must for anyone who is into digital photography." - John C. Dvorak, PC Mag, August 2004
Outback Photo has a good essay titled The Art of Raw Conversion #015: Raw Converter Bibble 4.0. Its a good preview of the Bibble 4.0 package.
'We know now Bibble for over 4 years. Unfortunately the last version Bibble 3 was not updated for quite some time. Eric Hyman (the Bibble author, Bibble is his cat’s name) took his time and created an all new version 4. We think it was worth the wait. Bibble 4 supports most digital SLRs on the market and also some digicams. Bibble’s goal is to provide good image quality with excellent workflow. This preview is partly based on a beta version that was close to a release candidate but some screenshot details may have changed last minute.'
'Woodward said half of Pentax Imaging's total revenues come from digital camera sales. Historically, Pentax has ranked as a top seller of 35 mm film cameras. Today, Pentax is among the top 10 sellers of digital cameras, but it lost some ground by not jumping on the digital bandwagon when it became clear that was where the future of photography was headed.
"We were slow to make that transition," Woodward said.
Now things are changing.
"What fundamentally changed our company three years ago was that the founder's family members were no longer involved in the day- to-day management of the company," Woodward said. "The top engineering manager became president."
Woodward is referring to Fumio Urano, who began his Pentax career in 1968 as a designer in the camera division. Urano conducted a top-to- bottom business review and embraced the digital camera as "the camera of the future," Woodward said.
"The products coming to market now are really a result of that change of emphasis," Woodward said. "The compact size has consumer appeal. The Optio S really produced a tremendous jump in market share...."'
Read more at Pentax plays digital catch-up with passion
'Tired of waiting for your film to be developed? Tired of paying money only to see that your head is cut off in most of the pictures? Tired of wasting money on disposable cameras? Then it is time for you to buy a digital camera.
They're easy to use, efficient, and cost-effective. "They have advantages for just about any teen that uses a computer. You can e-mail, print and send your pictures, and you don't have to wait for photoshop developing. In the long run, a digital camera is definitely cheaper for teens," said Chris, an employee at Circuit City.
The problem with buying a digital camera is the enormous selection of products available today. It can be overwhelming, especially for someone not familiar with the nuances of digital photography. There are many different factors to consider, from megapixels to memory cards. The following is a quick buying guide on what to look for when shopping for a digital camera. For more detailed information, you can consult www.cnet.com.'
Read more at A quick guide to buying a digital camera
Just last week we wrote about Samsung's new 5 megapixel camera phone which was due sometime before the end of the year. It seems that they've brought forward its release date - probably to throw off competitors (Casio) - and it now could be with us by the end of this month.
Digital Chosun writes - 'According to inside sources on Friday, Samsung Electronics recently finished the production of its 5-million pixel camera phone, which will hit the market before the end of the month. Until now, Samsung had yielded top spot in the market to Japanese companies, like Casio.'
“While digital photography can give you creative control you never had with traditional film-based photos, in the end that control will cost you, and you need to be aware of just what you’re getting into as you become part of the digital camera craze....
Today’s high-megapixel cameras are great for capturing fine detail, but the files from these cameras can require vast amounts of storage space. Your 120-gigabyte hard drive that you thought would last you for years will suddenly fill up in two months, thanks to your digital images....
Printing and paper costs can be enormous, as well. Printer manufacturers lure customers with low prices for photo printers, but the true cost lies in purchasing refill ink cartridges....
So when shopping for a digital camera, know what you’re getting into. For most, the price of the digital camera is just the beginning. Storage, accessories, computer upgrades, and printer expenses will usually dwarf the amount you spend on a camera in short order. Digital photography is fun - make no mistake. But don’t let anyone tell you it’s cheaper than film-based photography.“
Read more at Fun but not free: The true cost of digital photography
Digicam Review reviews the Vivitar Vivcam 3760 and writes - 'mage quality is average - the images have okay colour, okay detail (although they could do with a sharpen), low noise, and there is very little purple fringing. Image compression seems quite high based on the file sizes, but it doesn't seem to cause jpeg artifacts. The macro mode is good (a bit better than average). The flash did cause problems when the subject was too close, causing highlight detail to be lost, and occassional colour problems. Auto white balance and metering seemed to be okay. The movie mode is good although a bit low-res compared to other cameras, and unfortunately lacks sound. The digital zoom is easily the worst I have ever seen, and should not be used on this camera.'
“Photo messaging, hailed as one of the tech world's Next Big Things when it was launched in 2002, isn't quite as big as cell phone companies had hoped.
Analysts say that although consumers continue to snap up camera phones in record numbers, and do often use them to snap pictures, they aren't sending photos to one another in the same way they do text messages.
That's not good news for cell phone companies that are counting on multimedia revenues for future growth.
The lackluster state of multimedia services has even led Credit Suisse First Boston to change its forecast of photo messaging's effect on carriers' bottom lines.
Researchers there predicted in September 2003 that photo messaging would contribute at least 67 cents to carriers' average revenue per unit this year. But last April, they slashed that figure to 33 cents. ”
Read more at Camera phones not big smash
Minox Press Release
Stainless Steel Style Digital Compact Camera: The new MINOX DD200 with 4.0 million pixels!
With the MINOX DD200 the optical specialist from Wetzlar, Germany present a new look digital camera. The ultra-slim DD200 with its modern stainless steel look is a perfect addition to the existing range of modern MINOX products: 4 million pixels and a 4x digital zoom are just two key features of this particular camera.
In spite of its extremely compact size of just 94 mm x 56 mm x 26 mm, the new MINOX DD200 sports a 1.5“ TFT colour monitor which enables immediate image assessment both during and after the shot. The fast picture sequence permits spontaneous candid photography whenever you want it. The built-in flash switches on automatically when needed and ensures extra illumination even under critical light conditions.
The optional video recording feature of the new DD200 opens up a completely new area of photography for the user, making it possible to capture those fleeting moments on video as well.
In addition to the internal memory (16 MB), SD cards with a storage of up to 128 MB can be used as well. This offers photographers a greater amount of flexibility with the possibility to record a large number of images.
The camera comes with a USB cable which is used to transfer images quickly and conveniently to a computer. Images can then be touched up on the PC using any commercially available image software and then sent directly to friends and family.
The elegant and slim DD200 is a great companion for many occasions, always ready and waiting to capture those unforgettable moments.
Technical Data MINOX DD200
Image resolution:
4.0 Megapixel (3.2 MP hardware resolution)
2048 x 1536 pixels
2304 x 1728 (interpolated)
Webcam/Video: 320 x 240 pixels
Image sensor: CMOS
Image memory: (16 MB internal memory): without compression (***):17 images in a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels
low compression (**): 27images in a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels
high compression (*): 36 images in a compression of 2048 x 1536 pixels
interpolated (4.0 MP): 17 images in a resolution of 2304 x 1728 pixels
Colour: 24-bit RGB (8 bit x 3 colours)
Lens: 5 element glass lens with integrated infrared filter
Apertures: f/2.8
Focal length: 9.6 mm (= 48 mm with 35mm format)
Focusing range: from 0.7 m to infinity
Exposure: automatic
Exposure compensation: Steps -1,8 to +1,8 (steps of 0.3)
Shutter speed: automatic
Digital zoom: 4x in capture mode, additional zoom in playback mode
White balance: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Lamp, Tungsten, Night
Display: 1.5’’ colour TFT
Flash: Built-in
Flash programme: Auto, On, Off
Self-timer: 10 sec. delay
File format: JPEG, AVI
Memory: internal memory with 16 MB,
external memory with SD card (up to 128 MB)
Language
Support : English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese (T + S), Japanese
System requirement: Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP; MacOS 8.6 or later
Connectors: USB-port, SD card slot
Power: 2 batteries (size AAA/LR03) or rechargeable batteries (only NiMH-types!); via USB
Dimensions: 94 x 56 x 26 mm (B x H x T)
Weight: approx. 100 g
Complete with: Ever-ready case, wrist strap, USB-cable, CD-ROM, 2 AAA-batteries, manual
Minox Leica Press Release
A Digital Milestone - The MINOX Classic Camera Leica M3 now with 4.0 Megapixels!
The digital classic camera Leica M3 from the optical and miniaturization specialists MINOX of Germany, has now become a classic of a very special kind on the digital camera scene where it continues to excite many end users, dealers and press alike. "Finding a niche in the constantly growing and increasingly competitive digital camera market" was, according to MINOX General Manager, Thorsten Kortemeier, the "major goal" set by this traditionally minded company based in Wetzlar. This has been effectively accomplished by MINOX with their digital replica of the Leica classic camera in its ultra miniature format, which now boasts the attractive feature of 4.0 megapixels, providing the user with sharper recorded images and with even more detailed rendition. Naturally, the latest model from MINOX maintains the highly respected and traditional company values of features and fine mechanical precision built into the most compact design.
Although unusual, the MINOX Digital Classic Camera Leica M3 is both easy to use and ideal for those getting started in the field of digital photography and want classic convention rather than high-tec.
Up to 99 images can be recorded on the internal 32 MB memory. The camera includes a USB cable for the convenient and fast transfer of the images onto a PC. The LCD display on the camera back provides information on the number of images left to shoot at any one time.
Anyone who has a liking for exclusive classic design and exceptionally small dimensions will be very attracted to this digital gem from MINOX. The fine detail in the metal impressively enhances the design of the MINOX DCC Leica M3 and make it an unparalleled tool of excellence among the mass of available digital cameras. Its tiny dimensions makes it very pocketable, serving both as a camera and a digital notebook. The optional classic electronic flash perfectly compliments the style and design of this unique camera.
Technical Data MINOX Digital Classic Camera Leica M3 4.0
Image Resolution:
Still: 2048 x 1536 pixels (3.2 MP)
2304 x 1728 pixels (4.0 MP interpolated)
Web-Cam: 320 x 240 pixels
Internal Memory: 32MB FLASH MEMORY
Image capacity:
super/high: approx. 40 images
fine/high: approx. 40 images
fine/low: approx. 60 images
super/low: approx. 99 images
Viewfinderr: Optical (Galileian-style)
Display: LCD-image counter, mode selection (2 digit)
Flash: Compatible with MINOX Classic Camera Flash
Lens: 5 elements glass lens with IR filter glass
Focal length: 9.6 mm (= 48 mm compared to 35 mm film)
Lens aperture: F2.8
Focus range: 0.7 m – infinity, manual focusing
White Balance: Automatic
Shutter speed: Automatic
Self-timer: 10 seconds
Power supply: 1 x CR-2 battery / USB-cable
Auto power-off: OFF-Mode(after 30s inactivity)
File Format: JPEG
Support: WINDOWS 98/SE/ME/2000/XP/MAC compatible
Computer Interface: USB-cable
Dimensions: 65mm(L) x 48mm(B) x 44mm (H)
Weight: 95g
System requirements:
Microsoft Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP
Pentium-Prozessor or later
64 MB recommend
Video with 2-MB-RAM for displaying at least 16 Bit (High Color)
CD-ROM with 4x velocity
USB-port
Choosing a digital camera can be a confusing exercise if you do not know where to start your search. In this article we examine the different categories of digital cameras.
I am sure you have heard or read about Point-and-Shoot and Prosumer digital cameras, and have wondered what differentiate one from the other.
Besides these two categories, there are two more: Beginner and Serious amateur photographers.
It helps to understand that camera manufacturers typically target these four categories (or, in marketing speak, market segments) and introduce digital cameras that answer the needs of each of these segments.
An understanding of these four categories will help you to figure out in which category you fit and therefore which digital cameras to research. Read more at ,a href="http://www.photoxels.com/article_categories.html">Digital Camera Categories
It looks like those of us who have been waiting for an iPod designed with photo viewing capabilities might be about to have all our dreams come true if Think Secret have it right. They write:
“After three years of being synonymous with ”digital music player,“ Apple's iPod will widen its horizons and gain photo-viewing capabilities within the next 30 to 60 days, highly reliable sources tell Think Secret.
The new iPod, which will sit at the top of Apple's fourth-generation line-up, will pack Toshiba's new 60GB 1.8-inch hard drive, a 2-inch color liquid crystal display, iPhoto synchronization, audio/video-out capabilities, and will sell for $499.
The new iPod is currently in production in Asia after delays from Toshiba in delivering its new 60GB drive hampered a planned early-September ramp up. Sources confirm Toshiba started shipping the drive to Apple in mid-September and iPod manufacturer Inventec began building the new device in the last two weeks.
The new iPod's form factor will be identical to the existing 4G iPods, sources report, but will be two millimeters thicker than the current 40GB iPod and marginally heavier.”
Read more at Think Secret - 60GB iPod to pack photo-viewing features:
Photography Blog has an excellent review of the Concord Eye-Q 5062AF - a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with 1.5inch LCD and fixed focal length lens. Mark is the reviewer and he writes:
' Well, one obvious cost-saving is the zoom lens - there isn't one, just a fixed lens that is equivalent to 48mm on a 35mm camera. So if you want a camera with a zoom lens, stop reading now. Otherwise, on paper at least, the Concord Eye-Q 5062AF seems to offer most if not all of the features that other digicams in this class offer, with the bonus of a 5 megapixel sensor. So are there are any other major drawbacks in addition to that fixed lens?' Read on to find out what Mark thought of the Concord Eye-Q 5062AF
Belkin Wireless Pre-N Networking Products Hit Store Shelves; First Wi-Fi Certified Wireless Pre-N Products Available in Retail Stores
COMPTON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 8, 2004--Belkin Wireless Pre-N Networking products will be available in major retail outlets starting October 24, 2004. Belkin's Pre-N line consists of a Wireless Router (F5D8230-4) and Wireless Notebook Network Card (F5D8010) and guarantee 800% wider coverage and 600% faster speeds than all other wireless products on the market today. The products are certified by the Wi-Fi Alliance for their interoperability with existing Wi-Fi technologies including 802.11b and 802.11g.
Powered by Airgo Network's True MIMO(TM) technology, Belkin's Pre-N products improve wireless reliability and performance, and enable users to work with high-bandwidth applications, such as audio and video streaming.
What makes Belkin's Pre-N revolutionary?
-- 1) 800% wider coverage than standard 802.11g
-- 2) 600% faster speed than standard 802.11g
-- 3) Improved resistance to interference from neighboring Wi-Fi(R) systems and other 2.4GHz devices
-- 4) Improved performance with 802.11b and 802.11g devices whether employed at the client, AP, or both
-- 5) Does not drop to the lowest common networking speed in mixed-mode environments
-- 6) Seamless compatibility with 802.11b and 802.11g
Belkin utilizes True MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) from Airgo Networks in its Pre-N products. True MIMO is the first technology to address the issues of coverage, speed, and interference in larger homes and offices. True MIMO is one of the underlying technologies being considered for 802.11n, a standard in the works for the next generation of Wi-Fi technology.
About Airgo Networks, Inc.
Airgo Networks is the pioneer and worldwide leader in Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology. A breakthrough in wireless, MIMO has been adopted as the foundation for defining the new IEEE 802.11n standard for next generation Wi-Fi. Airgo is first-to-market with 802.11 a/b/g compliant MIMO chipset, software and reference design solutions. Airgo's True MIMO(TM) technology substantially improves performance and reliability enabling the most bandwidth-intensive applications and eliminating the need for wires at home, at work, and in public places. Founded in January 2001, the company is headquartered in Palo Alto, California. For more information about Airgo Networks is available at www.airgonetworks.com.
About Belkin Corporation
Belkin Corporation, the global leader in connectivity solutions, offers a range of innovations for the computer, electronics, and mobile consumer. With a diverse and far-reaching product mix consisting of home and enterprise networking, audio video solutions, KVM (keyboard/video/mouse), power protection and cabling, as well as USB and FireWire(R) devices, Belkin extends its reach to Bluetooth(TM), cellular, PDA, iPod(R), and other solutions for mobile computing. Belkin has introduced multiple types of messaging services that allow users to send or receive email, voice mail, faxes, and mobile text messages through one IP-based portal, from any computer and web-enabled device. Belkin products are available through www.belkin.com as well as through a network of major distributors, resellers, and superstores.
Leica Press Release
Ralf Coenen (43), hitherto member of the Board of Management responsible for Engineering, Cooperations and Asian Sales, will become the new Chairman of the Leica Camera AG, Solms, as from January 1, 2005. This decision of the Company's Supervisory Board, made in its meeting on Thursday, follows the proposal brought forward by Hanns-Peter Cohn (56). After six years on duty as Chairman of the Board of Management, Cohn will leave the Company at his own request to return to Vitra AG, Basle. At this manufacturer of high quality office and home furniture, he has already been active from 1984 until 1998 as one of three managing directors, with marketing and sales as his main field. As from January 1, 2005, Cohn will take on the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the Swiss company.
Dieter Uckele (55) will stay on Leica Camera AG's Board of Management, which in the future will consist of two members.
This changeover has been prepared from a long-term perspective in cooperation with the supervising bodies of Leica Camera AG. For a transitional period, Dieter Uckele had been appointed third member of the Board of Management as from April 1, 2003. Simultaneously Ralf Coenen, whose previous responsibilities as a Board member had been Engineering and Logistics, had extended his field of activities, taking on responsibility for Sales in the important Asian market, and had thus prepared himself for his new tasks as Chairman of the Board of Management.
“Ralf Coenen, a trained communication broadcast equipment mechanic, a diploma’d physicist and a man with many years of practical experience, is the right person to be at the head of Leica Camera AG. His management knowledge, from his academic training as a Master of Business Administration (MBA), as well as from his activities as a consultant with McKinsey and as Head of the Photo and Film Lenses business division of Zeiss Group, has contributed to his qualification for the chief executive position since he joined Leica Camera in July 2000. Already today, the Company’s organisational structure, with the business divisions Sports Optics, headed by Dr. Ulrich Ehmes, and Photography, headed by Mario Thurnherr, bespeaks Mr. Coenen’s ideas”, said Hanns-Peter Cohn describing his successor designate.
The Company’s major technological cooperations, with the Matsushita Group for digital compact cameras, and with Imacon A/S (meantime merged with Hasselblad Group) for digital supplements to the Leica SLR and rangefinder systems, have been built up under the direction of Ralf Coenen. Nevertheless, Coenen doesn’t see himself as a ‘Chairman with a digital focus’: “At Leica, the centre of all efforts is the picture and the best possible quality of the picture – not its digital or analogue recording. We focus on the sports optics products and the cameras for silver halogenid film, with digital products as supplements to offer our customers broader possibilities of choice.”
To spread the ‘active cult’ surrounding Leica photography, Ralf Coenen intends to extend the Leica Academy, already successful in Germany, on an international scale, to continue the intense cooperation with professional photographers and to focus distribution activities more clearly. “A good example is set by our Frankfurt dealer Foto-Hobby Rahn, who assembles under one roof a combination of Leica Shop, Leica Gallery and Leica Academy – a promising sales model starting in mid-October 2004.” Coenen is preparing a reorganisation of sales in important Asian markets.
Leica sports optics with its binoculars, scopes and range measurement devices is characterised by a direct orientation towards the main sales areas, bird watching, nature watching and hunting. Here, innovations immediately result in customer benefits, for instance, the combination of the watching and range measurement functions in a single compact binocular. “We will consistently make use of the opportunities offered by these markets and are currently working on innovations of various kinds”, said Coenen.
Steve's Digicams reviews the Epson L-500V digital camera and writes - 'The Epson L-500V will make a good choice for anyone who needs or wants a very compact and highly durable camera. It will make an excellent camera for family, tourist, and business users. With a street price of around $399, it offers a good value and because it fits in most any size pocket, it's always ready to capture that special moment.'
Buy the Epson L-500V 5MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom
CNET Reviews has a reviews of the Epson L-500V digital camera and writes - 'With so many sub-$400 digital cameras flooding the market, it's starting to feel like a plague of locusts. How do you know which one to buy, given that the quality of these is quite good now? One strategy is to look for a few key features that make a camera stand out from the crowd. Epson's L-500V has many of the usual specs for a $400 model: a 5-megapixel sensor, a 3X zoom, an SD card slot, a continuous-shooting mode, and a small collection of scene modes. It also has one stand-out feature: the best LCD screen we've seen on a digital camera. The big, bright, high-resolution display should make the Epson a hit with families and friends who want to immediately share the fun. While the LCD will wow even the most hardened of professionals, the L-500V's performance and photo quality don't follow through on the promise.'
PC Magazine reviews the Epson L-500V digital camera and writes - 'The Epson L-500V's most notable feature is a gorgeous 2.5-inch LCD, into which Epson's Photo Fine Technology is incorporated. The screen displays 196,608 pixels: 70 percent more than a typical 2.5-inch LCD like the one on the Casio Exilim EX-Z55. The L-500V has no optical viewfinder, but framing our shots using the LCD was accurate and easy, except in very bright sunlight when reflections and glare sometimes made it hard to see. And in very low light, we saw more noise in the display than we had noticed in other LCDs. But under normal conditions, images on the LCD were crisp and bright.'
Epson Press Release
Epson delivers a stylish 5 mega pixel digital camera with a 2.5 inch Photo Fine viewer
The Epson L-500V is a compact 5 mega pixel digital camera combined with a 2.5 inch Photo Fine viewer. It is the world’s highest definition consumer display on the market with 256 pixels per inch (ppi) and enables accurate viewing and sharing of photos directly from the camera screen.
October 2004 - The Epson L-500V, compact digital camera, will instantly capture 5 megapixel resolution photos with 3 times optical zoom. It features a 2.5 inch Epson Photo Fine viewer with a resolution of 256 ppi. You can share your images more easily, browse and select photos from thumnails and comfortably view your photos, not just preview them as with smaller digital camera screens.
Also included are outdoor and movie modes. The outdoor mode alternates between high brightness and high contrast so you can take high-quality photos in adverse light conditions. The movie mode offers VGA resolution at 30 frames per second ensuring producing a smooth picture.
Richard Baylis, Sales and Marketing Manager, Consumer Products, Epson UK says, “The Epson L-500V makes composing and focusing with a digital camera easy because you can see a clear, realistic scene from the Epson Photo Fine LCD display. The high resolution and brightness of the screen, makes this more than just a digital camera. It combines the benefits of two products in one: a digital camera and a high definition photo viewer.”
What is Epson Photo Fine liquid crystal display technology?
Epson Photo Fine liquid crystal display technology ensures a sharp lifelike preview of recorded images unsurpassed by any other manufacturer. The high density liquid crystal display provides more than twice the number of pixels than competitor models. The results are clearer, sharper images with high-quality colour rendition and brightness. Epson Photo Fine LCD viewer reveals subtleties in your images that cannot be seen on ordinary LCD’s, making it ideal for previewing digital images before printing or transferring to a PC.
Epson L-500V features summary
- Epson L-500V launch date – November 2004
- 2.5 inch high definition Epson Photo Fine display
- High definition of 256 ppi, 589,824 dots <512x3(RGB)x384>
- 5 mega pixel
- 3x optical zoom
- Movie mode at broadcast quality (30 fps at VGA resolution)
- USB DIRECT-PRINT
- PRINT Image Framer technology enables users to add their own frames
- RRP £279 inc VAT
DP Now reviews the Epson P-2000 multimedia storage album and writes - 'While the older Epson P-1000 shared the same remarkable Photo Fine display, its overall design was flawed and it was far too expensive. The new P-2000 has fixed practically all of the P-1000’s flaws and although it’s a bit bulkier, it’s more affordable and much more useful. There isn’t anything else to touch it at the moment.'
PhotographyBLOG reviews the Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer and writes - 'The Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer has done what few products that I have reviewed here on PhotographyBLOG have ever done - made their way into my camera bag! The Epson P-2000 has impressed me so much that I plan to buy one just as soon as Amazon have it in stock. The Epson P-2000 represents the best compromise between having a laptop computer or one of the other portable storage devices on the market. I envisage using the Epson P-2000 both out in the field where speed, battery life and successful data transfers are key, and later for showing my work to clients, friends and family. The Epson P-2000 satisfies all of these requirements in an easy to use and very stylish way. '
Epson Press Release
The Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer allows users to store and preview digital photos, movies and music. The 3.8 inch Photo Fine display provides outstanding definition for unsurpassed picture quality.
October 2004 - The Epson P-2000 Photo Viewer is the latest digital imaging accessory that enables you to save your photos from your digital camera memory card and view them on the 3.8 inch Photo Fine display. The bright vivid displays found in Epson Photo Fine products make them suitable for use under most lighting conditions. Whether you are indoors or outdoors, you’ll be able to enjoy viewing your photos from the Epson P-2000.
The key features of the Epson P-2000 include a 3.8 inch VGA (640x480) high definition Photo Fine display that offers a resolution of 212 pixels per inch (ppi). You can store and view your photo albums, create slide shows and connect to your photo printer, computer or TV. The Epson P-2000 is approximately twice as fast as its predecessor when viewing photos and has a battery life of up to three hours.
In addition to the quality photo viewing capabilities, the Epson P-2000 provides support for digital camera and camcorder movies and music files. You can add music files to your slide shows for a fun and lively presentation of your images. Also included is a 40 GB hard disk drive, so it can double up as a portable storage unit for any PC or Mac files.
Richard Baylis, Sales and Marketing Manager, Epson UK says, “The Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer gives a high-quality mutlimedia experience. It offers digital photographers and lovers of gadgets a compact solution for downloading and storing their photos, whether at home, in the studio or on the move.”
What is Epson Photo Fine liquid crystal display technology?
Epson Photo Fine liquid crystal display technology ensures a sharp lifelike preview of recorded images unsurpassed by any other manufacturer. The high density liquid crystal display provides more than twice the number of pixels than competitor models. The results are clearer, sharper images with high-quality colour rendition and brightness. Epson Photo Fine LCD viewer reveals subtleties in your images that cannot be seen on ordinary LCD’s, making it ideal for previewing digital images before printing or transferring to a PC.
- Epson P-2000 Multimedia Storage Viewer features summary
- Launch date – November 2004
- 3.8 inch VGA (640x480) high definition Photo Fine display
- High definition of 212 ppi
- 40GB hard disk drive
- Photo playback
- Movie playback (motion J-PEG and MPEG4 at 30FPS@VGA)
- Music playback (MP3 and ACC)
- A/V out enables it to be connected to a TV
- On board mono speaker
- CompactFlash and SD memory cards directly supported. MS/SM/MMC/XD supported via CF adaptor
- RAW data support as native (thumbnail of RAW files is displayed)
- Supports RAW files from Nikon, Canon and the new Epson R-D1 rangefinder digital camera.
- USB 2.0 High speed for PC/Mac connection
- Up to three hours battery life
- USB DIRECT-PRINT
- RRP inc VAT £349
This comprehensive review of the Canon Powershot A80 has been submitted by regular reader, Simon. He goes in the draw to win a $100 gift voucher from Amazon. Tell us about your digicam, printer, scanner, camera phone for a chance to win also.
First Impressions
The Canon PowerShot A80 digital camera supercedes the already successful Powershot A70. Based on the success of the A70, the new arrival had some expectations to live up to. After using it for the best part of a year, and several thousand shots later, I'm glad to say this has exceeded expectations and raised the bar significantly for all competitors.
The first thing I noticed about the camera when I finally held it in my hands was how solid and well built it felt. The handgrip protrudes slightly from the right hand side (as it encases the 4 AA batteries) making it comfortable to hold in the hand - important if you're going to be using it all day. The buttons and dials are intuitive and laid out well for ease of access.
All in all first impressions were very positive.
UK Readers buy the Canon PowerShot A80 here
Layout and Design
All the creative modes that many current film SLRs have are found on the PowerShot A80. From full Auto operation to typical scene modes like portrait, landscape, night shot, fast and slow shutter, to exposure controls like Aperture / Shutter Priority and full manual mode, the A80 has it all. So for any film SLR users, you will instantly be familiar with the design layout.
The in-camera menus are simple to access via the Function and Menu buttons on the back. Pressing Function opens up the cameras settings for things such as Red Eye on/off, self-timer, formatting the Compact Flash card, language details etc.
The Menu button provides all the options available for changing the exposure details such as Exposure compensation, white balance, drive mode, ISO value, Effects (B&W, Sepia etc), Metering, and image size and quality.
Two simple buttons to control most operations: simple and effective. Thumbs up for design.
Quality of results
The Canon PowerShot A80's 4MP 1/1.8“ sensor produces outstanding image quality, more than capable of generating high quality A4 prints. It uses the same sensor found in the PowerShot G3 camera - a prosumer camera that has been accepted by many professionals as their backup camera to a digital SLR. Those that have had the chance to use both the G3 and A80 affectionately call the A80 a ”baby G3“ as it contains basically the same feature set in a much smaller body.
Noise levels in images from the A80 are quite low and are more than acceptable compared to other cameras in its class.
It's fast (f2.8) lens at wide angle allows for good low light shooting, and the swivel LCD can be flipped out giving you more flexibility in what types of shots you take. Purple fringing is only a minor issue on the A80, and this can be reduced by simply stopping down the lens.
The A80 gets the nod for image quality.
Camera features
The A80 houses a 4MP 1/1.8” CCD sensor, and as stated above, is capable of reproducing excellent quality prints. To view the images, the A80 uses a 1.5“ flip out LCD, which is an upgrade from the A70's built in 'static' LCD, which doesn't flip out or rotate. The lens is a 3x optical zoom, giving the camera an overall focal length of 38-114mm - a decent focal range for most situations.
For those that require a focal range outside the delivered, there are the optional wide angle and telephoto converters, which mount onto the front of the camera. These are purchased separately at fairly reasonable prices.
To power the A80, it uses 4 AA Alkaline batteries (supplied). The plus side of using AA batteries is they can be found in most shops around the globe. Once depleted, I recommended you get a good quality set of 2100 NIMH (or above) rechargeable batteries.
Movie mode is handy for those moments when you don't have your video camera on you, however quality of movies from digital still cameras will always leave something to be desired.
Panorama images are made easy with the Panorama setting. It allows you to view the last picture taken slightly offset in the side of the LCD, making it easy to line up the next shot. Once you're on the computer, its simple to create impressive panorama shots using the included stitching software from Canon.
The camera uses Compact Flash Type 1 cards, one of the most common types, which makes it readily available at most camera stores and is quite cheap. Included with the camera is a 32MB card, capable of storing around 20 images at the highest quality.
For a camera in this price range, you certainly get a lot of bang for your buck.
Ease of Use
The menu layout is intuitive, and it didn't take long before I could navigate comfortably through it to select the desired settings. For those happy to shoot fully auto, simply leave the dial on ”Auto“ and the camera will select all exposure details and deliver excellent results.
If you're like me and don't mind experimenting a little, setting the camera to P mode enables more creative options in the menu. Effects such as black and white, sepia, vivid all become available and enhance the users experience and ultimately end result.
If you find you're using certain settings often, there are two handy custom settings where you can save all your preferred configurations. Great if you're in a rush and don't have time to set everything up for a given scenario - you can preset everything and simply select either C1 or C2 on the dial and away you shoot.
Connecting the camera to a PC/Mac is a simple operation and is done in only a matter of moments. Once the images are downloaded, using the included Canon software it’s easy to manage and edit your images.
Value for money
When this camera was first released in Australia, it had a RRP of $749. I managed to purchase this online for $659, which I was more than happy to pay considering it's spec list. At the end of its shelf life the A80 was selling for around $520 - outstanding value for money.
It was also probably one of the cheapest digital cameras out there that had aperture priority /shutter priority / full manual mode operations. Combine this with two Custom settings and you have a tidy package that really packs a punch.
General Comments
The Canon Powershot A80 excelled in many areas compared to others in its class. For optimum battery life, I'd suggest you purchase a set of 4 AA ”2100 NIMH“ (or above) batteries - I have been able to take several hundred shots before the battery warning light comes on. Quite remarkable considering I review each picture and delve into the menus often.
The only area I would gripe about would be the memory card door: it’s somewhat flimsy, and if not handled with care has the potential to be damaged. However, as yet I've not had any problems with it.
Note - the Canon PowerShot A95 has since replaced The A80. If you're really after an A80 and don't want to consider the A95, then you're best bet is eBay!
Likes
* Superb image quality
* Ease of use
* Excellent battery life (with 2100 NIMH or above batteries)
* Sturdy build
* Great ergonomics, making it comfy to hold for extended periods
* Flip out LCD handy for low down / high up / and self portrait shots
* 2 custom modes
Dislikes
* ”Battery low“ indicator displays too late
* LCD can be considered small for some, making it harder to judge focus
* Compact flash door seems slightly flimsy - care must be taken
Rating out of 10
8.5 - feature packed; outstanding image quality; represents excellent value for money
Get more reviews and information about the Canon A80 here
UK Readers buy the Canon PowerShot A80 here
This comprehensive review of the Adobe Photoshop CS package has been submitted by Jim Bask from VideoGuys. He goes in the draw to win a $100 gift voucher from Amazon. Tell us about your digicam, printer, scanner, camera phone for a chance to win also
Adobe recently announced all new upgrades for their complete video lineup including the new Adobe Video Collection 2.5 and Adobe Video Collection Professional 2.5. These full-featured software *collections* include Adobe Premiere Pro 1.5 for video editing, Adobe After Effects 6.5, Adobe Encore DVD 1.5 and Adobe Audition 1.5. The Professional Collection includes the Professional version of Adobe After Effects 6.5 plus the full version of Adobe Photoshop CS. Why would Adobe Photoshop CS be added to a video production bundle? Do you really need Photoshop? Is it only for professionals?
UK/European Readers buy Adobe Photoshop CS for Windows
Adobe Photoshop CS is the newest version of the most powerful image enhancement software around and should be an add-on to every video editing system. If you have the Adobe Video Collection, a Matrox, Canopus or ADS non-linear editor with Adobe software or ANY other video production software, Photoshop will allow you to make the most of your videos. Photo montages, title screens, logos and graphics and even DVD menu screens may all be created and improved with Photoshop CS. Whether you are an experienced video editor, an experienced graphic designer, or a complete novice in both fields, learning Photoshop is well worth the time and effort. Fortunately there are some very comprehensive training materials available from Total Training and even some new materials specifically designed for those using Photoshop for Digital Video. These DVDs by Class-on-Demand and VASST were very helpful in writing this hands-on review -- and I've been using Photoshop for close to 10 years!
Make your Photos Video Friendly Whether you've decided to finally edit all of those old family videos, or if you're a professional putting the finishing touches on your last wedding, corporate training or other event video, chances are you will need to incorporate a still image at some point in your production. It may be as simple as a photo-montage or as intricate as a pan-and-zoom ala a Ken Burns' documentary. In either case, it's important to realize that the photos you scan into your computer or grab from a digital camera may look great in print but terrible in video. Here are some easy ways to make sure your photos will look great on the big screen.Adobe Photoshop CS has some great new templates for creating new files. If you have an older version of Photoshop this feature alone may be worth the upgrade! The easiest way to make sure your photos will be video-friendly is to always start with a new file based on one of these templates. So, go to File > New > Preset and choose one of the video templates to use for your photo. I am working with DV footage so I chose NTSC DV 720x480 (with guides) but before you click OK note that I also changed my background contents to Transparent and my color profile to “Don't Manage.” Now, when you click OK, you'll be all set to begin. But wait,,, did you get a warning message about the pixel aspect ratio correction? What does this mean? This is Adobe's way of telling you that anything copied to or created in this file will be rendered into non-square pixels optimized for video. Click OK and you're well on your way. Now you can open the photo you need to use, copy and paste it into your video template, resize it to fit the frame and Voila!, you now have a made-for-tv image. But that's not all, Photoshop CS can do sooo much more, all for the same low price, buy now and learn these image enhancement techniques...
Image Enhancement for Video Output
I hope you're happy with your image now that you've formatted it properly. But, will the image look the same when you output it to an NTSC monitor as it does here on your computer screen? Will anything bad happen to it if I encode it to an MPEG-2 file for DVD, or worse, a low-resolution file for multimedia and the web? Fortunately Adobe Photoshop CS has quite a few tools to make sure your image looks great and when you combine that with a basic understanding of the way video works you'll be much happier with the final results.
Another important enhancement tool that you should use with every photo you plan on bringing to video is “levels.” Levels are the image adjustment tools in Photoshop that allow you to control the white, greys and blacks. The RGB color space that we selected when we created the new file from a template uses a color range between “0” and “256.” However, this range is too much for most monitors and you'd be better off limiting it to 16 and 235 - a great tip I learned from the VASST training DVD! If you are working on Avid Xpress this range is known as the 601 color palette. You can do this very quickly by going to Image > Adjustments > Levels (Control/Command + L for those using keyboard shortcuts) and adjusting the black and white in your output levels. This will prevent your whites from being too bright and your blacks from getting washed out. I also recommend that you click on the preview mode and adjust the input levels to quickly correct the overall color of your photo. A good start is to move the black and white markers to the beginning and end of the histogram and tweak from there.
Obviously, there's a lot more you can do to help improve your snapshot in Photoshop and a lot of that will come from experimenting with the software, logging some precious practice time, taking advantage of Photoshop's many levels of undo and, if you're really eager, using some of the great training tools available on the market. All of this power may become overwhelming to you newbies so start slow, save often and let your creative energy spill over to some of the great creativity this program can help you accomplish.
Using Photoshop CS to Create Video Elements
Adobe Photoshop CS would not be the benchmark in the industry if all it did was allow you to re-touch photos. PS is a complete creative tool that can easily create elements that will make your videos look like the productions the pros make. Use it to create title screens, lower-thirds, bugs, DVD menus and more.
Lower-thirds are the title bars that you commonly see across the bottom of the screen during a news broadcast, interview or corporate video. These title bars convey important information such as the anchorman's name without completely interrupting your footage. These are useful tools in most video productions to create a nice segue from one scene to the next without the constant interruption of title screens. Title screens and lower thirds may be created in Photoshop with the same basic tools. Start with a few gradients or patterns, add a color layer and scroll through the blending options in Photoshop to quickly create a nice background for your titles. You should of course be working on your video template with guides so be sure to use the action safe (outer guides) and title safe (inner guides) areas to layout your lower-third. Once you create your title, set the anti-aliasing and choose a contrasting color to outline, shadow or highlight your text. This contrast will make your text more readable even if it is superimposed over moving video. The one difference in creating the lower-third vs. the bumper is that these are often saved to an Alpha-channel that will preserve the transparencies for video overlay. To preserve this alpha channel I recommend saving your images in TGA format that is compatible with every video editing application I've ever used.
“Bugs” are small logos and graphics that appear on screen at all times. CNN started doing this and now just about every TV channel you turn on has a bug on the screen. Perhaps you have a client that would like you to do this with his company's logo over the training video you are working on. If so, the principals are the same as creating the lower-third and mastering alpha-channels is now even more important.
Finally, one of the most asked about functions in the world of video editing today is creating DVDs. DVDs are a revolutionary media that allows you to combine interactive capabilities to complement the viewing experience. You can use Adobe Photoshop to layout your menu screen with buttons that will later be used for navigation. What's more, you can bring your image into Adobe EncoreDVD 1.5 and other popular authoring programs, recognize the Photoshop layers and automatically configure the buttons with navigation to the various chapters on the disc. The more advanced users may also want to add Adobe After Effects 6.5 to their workflow to create professional bumpers (motion title screens) and motion DVD menus. The possibilities are endless!
Whether you are a home videographer who has been bitten by the creativity bug or a professional producer looking to get the best tools for your trade, Adobe Photoshop CS should be the next add-on to your non-linear editing system.
Rating - When used for digital video editing Adobe Photoshop CS is a 9 out of 10 with new templates and tools deigned specifically for video formats. It is by far the most powerful and comprehensive image tool for videographers but may be overkill for the casual user. I'm looking forward to evaluating Adobe Photoshop Elements to see if it is an easier application with the necessary tools.
UK/European Readers buy Adobe Photoshop CS for Windows
This review has been previously published at VideoGuys' Adobe Photoshop CS Hands-On Review
The Rollei dk4010 is a 4 megapixel digital camera camera with a 10x Optical Zoom lens, 1.5inch LCD and video clips up to 30 frames per second. Read the following press release from Rollei to learn more about this digital camera.
Rollei Press Release
Rollei is zooming in! photokina 2004
Rollei launches 4-megapixel superzoom camera Rollei dk4010 with 10x zoom lens
The new 4-megapixel digital camera by Rollei is sure to capture even very remote subjects in full detail: A 10x zoom lens and a 6x digital zoom let you zoom in on your subjects even over long distances. Other outstanding features are unlimited continuous shooting, a movie mode and the availability of filters and wide-angle or teleconverters to increase the flexibility of the Rollei dk4010 even further. The digital camera will be available at dealers from October 2004.
The new Rollei digital camera comes in a stylish silver-black body that underlines its professional leanings. But the features are equally attractive: A 10x zoom lens covers focal lengths from 5.7 to 57 mm, equivalent to 37-370 mm in 35mm photography. With f/2.8-3.1, its speed is remarkably high and optimally suited for the wide zooming range. A high-speed autofocus system guarantees consistently sharp pictures. Another remarkable feature is unlimited continuous shooting: The camera is capable of unlimited bursts of up to 3.3 frames per second with maximum resolution.
The 1.5-inch TFT LCD monitor gives a clear and brilliant preview of your subjects. The additional electronic viewfinder has a resolution of approx. 300,000 pixels, which results in a more homogeneous color image and richer detail than in conventional LCD viewfinders, even in critical lighting conditions. Moreover, there is no time lag even during rapid panning or subject motion.
Whoever wishes to leave all the "work" to the camera may choose one of four programmed AE modes: Portrait, Sports/Action, Night and Night Portrait. Enterprising photographers, on the other hand, will find ample manual control. In addition to automatic white balance, the Rollei dk4010 offers presets for bright sunlight, neon light, cloudy sky, tungsten plus Manual. The built-in flash has an Auto mode (including red-eye reduction) as well fill-in, likewise with red-eye reduction. In addition, the camera features both shutter-speed priority and aperture priority (ten EV steps each).
If you wish to capture unforgettable events in the form of brief video clips, simply switch to the movie mode of the Rollei dk4010. The camera records video clips complete with sound with either 640x480 or 320x240 pixels and 15 or 30 frames per second, respectively, depending on whether your first priority is quality or memory space. Both stills and video clips can be recorded on SD or MultiMedia card. Alternatively, they can be transferred directly to a computer or TV set via the USB or video port.
An adapter ring allows commercial filters or wide-angle and teleconverters to be attached to the lens tube for even greater creative freedom.
Rollei dk4010 - Specifications
• Sensor: 1/2.7", 4.2-megapixel CCD
• Image resolution: 2272 x 1704 pixels, 1600 x 1200 pixels, 1280 x 960 pixels, 640 x 480 pixels
• Video clips (30 + 15 fps): 640 x 480 pixels, 320 x 240 pixels, with sound
• Sensitivity: Auto, ISO 100, 200, 400, 800
• Recording media: SD and MM cards
• LC display: 1.5" DayFine TFT color monitor (110,000 pixels)
• Microphone and loudspeaker built-in
• Recording formats: JPEG (EXIF 2.2), AVI
• Single frames and continuous shooting: AF-linked continuous shooting with 2 frames per second; with AF lock, 3.3 frames per second in maximum resolution
• Lens: D-VarioApogon zoom lens 5.7-57mm f/2.8-3.1 HFT (equivalent to approx. 37-370 mm in 35mm photography)
• Zoom: optical 10x, digital 6x
• Focusing: Autofocus, 0.6 m to infinity
• Macrofocusing: 10 cm to 60 cm
• Shutter speeds: Automatically controlled from 1 s – 1/2000 s (CCD-controlled, programmed electronic shutter)
• Viewfinder: Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal, approx. 300,000 pixels
• Exposure compensation: Auto, manual +/-2,0 EV in 1/3 increments
• Shutter-speed and aperture priority: 10 EV steps each
• Subject modes: Sports, Portrait, Night, Night Portrait
• White balance: Auto, manual, bright sunlight, cloudy sky, tungsten, fluorescent
• Flash: Auto, Off, Red-eye reduction, Fill-in with red-eye reduction, Fill-in
• Self-timer: 2 s/10 s delay
• Tripod socket: 1/4"
• Interfaces: USB, Video (NTSC, PAL), Audio, AC/DC
• Power supply: 4x size AA alkaline batteries, 4x size AA rechargeable NiMH batteries, AC adapter (optional)
• Dimensions (mm/wxhxd): 107 x 73 x 87.5
• Weight: 310 g (without batteries and SD card)
• Camera kit: Rollei dk4010, USB and video cables, 4x alkaline batteries, strap, lens cap, CD with drivers, operating instructions, brief instructions
System requirements
• PC: Windows 98/SE/ME/2000/XP, CD-ROM drive, USB interface
• Apple Macintosh: Version 9.0 or higher, CD-ROM drive, USB interface
Subject to change without notice!
Photography Blog reviews the Ricoh Caplio R1 and writes - 'Ricoh seem to have taken one step forward and two steps back with the Caplio R1. Image quality has dramatically improved in comparison with previous Ricoh models, with only soft out-of-camera images spoiling a great perfomance (which is easy to fix with software anyway). But just as this long-standing issue seems to have been successfully addressed, Ricoh have made the R1 a lot less useable than cameras like the Caplio GX and RX, by using a shiny, slippery plastic material for most of the external controls. What should be a simple to use digicam is actually a frustrating experience. The 28-135mm lens is a great feature on such a compact model, offering true wide-angle and portrait options, but when zooming from telephoto to wide-angle, it almost sounds as though there is something mechanically wrong with the zooming mechanism.'
Pocket Lint reviews the Ricoh Caplio R1 and writes - 'The R1 is versatile indeed; it is sturdily built, attractive and offers great wide-angle snapping options all at an attractive price. Niggles I had with the lens cover meant it was not totally magic. That aside, the R1 takes superb pictures let down at the last by the softness at the edges (see sample images).'
Digital Photography Blog reader, 74 year old Bob Dutru from Ontario Canada has submitted this review of the 3.2 Megapixel FujiFilm A303 as part of our tell us about your camera for a chance to win $100US gift voucher promotion (catchy name hey!).
The Fujifilm A303 is a 3.2 megapixel (CCD)camera that weighs just 5.1 ounces and measures 3.8 x 1.3 x2.5 inches. It has a 3x Optical Zoom lens, 1.5inch LCD, takes xD cards and has an in built flash.
Fuji A303 camera (3.2 megapixels)
I’ve had this camera more than a year now and find it great fun, which is what Photography should be.
To give you a little of my background. I’d been a reporter and then become a still photographer on a newspaper and then switched to TV and became a cinematographer. Traveling around the world for various networks I clocked assignments in over 90 countries including making a film for Frank Sinatra.
I’d bought a Pentax Spotamatic in Hongkong, added lenses from Pakistan, bought a fisheye lenses in Tokyo and gradually bult up a massive and very expensive 35mm outfit. The trouble is I hardly ever had time to take any pictures because I was carrying so much film and later video equipment- we normally traveled with about 20 cases of camera and sound equipment-
I finally ended buying myself a cheap $20 half frame 35mm camera and giving it to my drivers or guides and told them to take loads of pictures when I was talking to a world leader or someone important. I got a lot of pictures-far more than with my full size 35mm Pentax but of course a lot of them were out of focus or showed movement because of the people taking them but it sold me on small simple cameras like the Fuji A303.
When digital camera first came out and I’d retired from my constant traveling for television I bought the Fuji A303 and have been carrying it around with me and snapping with it constantly.
It’s quite wonderful for someone like me to be able to stick it in my shirt pocket and take it everywhere.
I use it at new restaurants, or when I go to a store and want to take back a picture of something I’m planning to buy, it helps me remember what people look like and their names (I’m 74 )
Now about the Fuji A303 camera.
My first impression of it was how small and how light it was. I won’t bother to give it’s actual size but it goes in a shirt pocket with lots of room to spare.
There a a few things that I had to get used to, one is the delay that occurs between taking one short and having the flash charge up and be ready for another.
Not really a problem, you learn to live with it and with the Fuji it doesn’t seem to take too long.
Battery life seems excellent, I use Ni HM 's AA cells and carry a couple of spare aa ones in my pocket and I’ve never run out.
The controls are pretty simple to use.
I take all my pictures at the highest digital setting ( 3 M-F (fine) and when I put them on my computer I duplicate them and resize them to 640 x480 for emailing.
That way if I get a really good shot it’s ready to have a large print made without any loss of quality. So far I’ve had printed and printed myself several 11 x 8’s.
Looks pretty good too.
I bought one of those tiny table tripods which is easy to slip into my pocket and is great for putting yourself in a picture with friends using the timer delay.
Layout of the camera is pretty good - One thing that’s bad is the optical viewfinder is back of-or lower on the camera than the digital screen which means it’s quite hard to use if you wear glasses which I do. The screen sticks out and gets in the way of your glasses.
My hands tend to be a little shaky now I'm old so if I have to use the digital screen which I do now most times I made
myself a simple handgrip out of a garden pot hanger (see picture left).
That also slips in my pocket and is wonderful for steadying telephoto shots.
Value for money pretty good- of course the price has dropped since I bought it a year ago. But I sold my old 35mm outfit and that more than paid for the Fuji.
Rating out of 10 - I don’t really know, it suits me but of course I’ve been taking pictures all my life which helps. I'd give it a rating of 7 out of 10.
Here’s a couple of “Happy snaps” (click to enlarge)
Get more Fujifilm A303 Reviews at:
- Steve's Digicams - Fujifilm A303 User Review
- PC World - Fujifilm A303 Review
PC Mag have a good review of the Paint Shop Pro 9 software. They write:
'Paint Shop Pro 9 has also added some new tools for correcting photos, including the ability to open Camera Raw–formatted images. The Chromatic Aberration command provides simple but highly effective controls for eliminating the colored fringing that can occur along sharply contrasting edges in images. And the new feature that smoothes digital photo noise does a very good job. But two other features, Fill Flash and Backlighting, fail to provide the same degree of control and quality that Photoshop's counterpart, the Shadow/Highlight tool, offers.
While Photoshop CS remains the champ for prepress work, Paint Shop Pro 9 continues to provide a more than satisfactory—and much cheaper—alternative for editing digital photos. And the new painting tools could attract an entirely new, cameraless audience to the program.'
DigiCamReview reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX7 and writes - 'Image: Image quality is very good - the images have great colour, great detail (although they could do with a slight sharpen depending on your tastes), low noise, there is very little purple fringing, although it would be nice if there was a bit less. Image compression seems about right. The macro mode is good (a bit better than average). The flash did cause problems when the subject was too close. Auto white balance and metering seemed to be very good. The movie mode is good although a bit low-res compared to other cameras.
Everything else (the camera as a whole): The camera is very compact, and very stylish, it has an excellent large 2.5" screen that has great, accurate colour, and updates very smoothly. The camera is easy to use, the menu systems easy to use. The 3x optical zoom and Mega Optical Image Stabilisation technology are VERY good, the Mega OIS lets you take photos that would previously have ended up blurry. Camera handling and design are very good.'
Learn More about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX7 Review - Digicam Review
Get the Latest Price on the Panasonic DMC-FX7
Time Magazine have named the Olympus Stylus Verve as their gadget of the week. They write:
'What is the Stylus Verve, if not a fashion statement? Olympus paid a lot of money to tout it at New York's Fashion Week this fall, but its looks would have earned it a place on the runway even without the sponsorship: smooth lines, a subtle angularity, multiple colors (silver, white, blue, black, copper and red — collect all six?) and the funky selector wheel that reminds me of a vintage cigarette lighter designed in an era when smoking was cool. Mechanics such as the retracting circular lens hatch and the whoosh start up sound effect add to the flavor.
None of that would mean much if the Verve didn't take good pictures, but it handles its primary function well, particularly in two areas where other point-and-shoot cameras suffer: low-light shots without flash, and up-close shots with flash. The autofocus on previous Stylus models was slow to lock on, but the Verve is quick on the draw, and passed beautifully in most real-life tests.'
Get more info on the Olympus Stylus Verve
by: Warren Lynch
The most important part of buying a digital camera is making sure that the one you select meets all of your needs.
Digital Camera 101
Better digital cameras uses a chip called a "Charged Coupled Device" (CCD) instead of film. Light enters the camera, through the open shutter, and strikes the CCD where it is converted to digital data before being stored in the camera's memory.
While that is the simple description, things can get pretty complicated from there.
Megapixels & Resolution
Resolution is a measure of how many pixels are used to make a digital copy of an image. Pixels are tiny dots of light that make up a digital image.
The quality of a digital camera's image is usually measured in 'Megapixels' where each megapixel represents one million pixels.
Here's how to determine how many megapixels you'll need depending upon the type of photos you will be taking and what you intend to do with them.
1 megapixel
Almost obsolete, you might still find these in cell phones, PDAs, and desktop "web" cameras. They're OK if you only intend to email pictures to other people and those people aren't going to be printing them.
1.1 to 2 megapixels
Only slightly better than the 1.0, this resolution is OK for an average 4x6 snapshot, but it isn't going to be a production quality image.
2.1 to 3 megapixels
This is the beginning of the decent camera range. You get very good 4x6 images and reasonably good 5x7 images. These cameras are low cost and provide a good platform for beginners.
3.1 to 4 megapixels
You are qualified to say that you have a "pretty good" camera. You get professional quality 4x6 images, real good 5x7 and 6x9 shots, and somewhat decent, but not great 8x10 images.
4.1 to 5 megapixels and up
People will be saying "Hey, great pictures!". You can count on professional images all the way up to 8x10's. Of course, as the megapixel count goes up, so does the price.
If you are only going to be viewing your pictures online, such as posting them at a photo site or using them on your web pages, keep your money in your pocket and pick yourself up something in the 1.5 megapixel range.
If you will be shooting pictures that will be printed at a print house, such as for brochures, postcards, etc, then you will need at least a 5 megapixel camera if not higher. Of course, you'll also need to have a fat wallet or a lot of open to buy on your credit card because, even thought prices are steadily falling, these puppies aren't cheap!
Once you've solved the megapixel puzzle, the rest of a digital camera's features, such as lens types, storage capacity and shutter speed are pretty routine and easy to understand. You shouldn't have a problem deciding on those features.
Join Photopheed's Daily Digital Dose and see Warren's Tips. Warren Lynch has been shooting commercial photography since 1979 in Louisville, Kentucky. Clients include Makers Mark Bourbon, Heaven Hill, Yum Brands, GE, Fruit of The Loom and many more highly recognizable brands. Have him make your product more recognizable too. Visit his website at www.wlynch.com or just him a call at 1-502-587-7722.
About The Author
Warren Lynch http://www.wlynch.com
Sign-up for Photopheed's Daily Syndicated Newsletter, the Daily Digital Dose and also receive Bi-Weekly Digital Photography Tips and Techniques from Warren Lynch an award-winning commercial photographer . http://www.photopheed.com
Bob Atkins has an interesting translation of an interview with Canon board member Mr. Iwashita.
't seems that Canon are currently happy with the 3 tier system of DSLRs, the consumer level Digital Rebel, the "prosumer" level EOS 20D and the pro level EOS 1D mark II and 1Ds mark II. There are no current plans to introduce a digital version of the EOS 3. The current 3 tiers don't really compete with each other and sales are good. There's no reason to add a 4th level between the 20D and 1D models.
Right now Canon are sticking with CMOS sensors which provide maximum performance, however Canon do not rule out the use of other sensors (CCD) in the future if the technology changes.'
Read More at Canon Digital Plans
DC Views has a great review of the Casio Z50 and writes:
'With excellent handling, superb portability and image quality that is easily good enough for large prints, we have to conclude that this new 5-megapixel Casio is a welcome addition to today's digital camera market. Ergonomics are good with all controls being well-placed and functional without there being too many of them. The menu system is logically organised and very user-friendly, while the long battery life makes it ideal for long vacations, or business travel. So if you have been looking for a reasonably priced, stylish point-and-shoot camera that delivers the goods, this Casio Z50 might be just the ticket for you.'
Get the Latest Price on the Casio Exilim EX-Z50
Do you own a digital camera, printer, scanner or camera phone? Would you like the chance to win a $100 (US) gift from Amazon simply by writing a short review of your experiences with it?
Digital Photography Blog, in conjunction with Camera Phone Zone and Printer Blog are giving you the chance to win a $100 gift voucher from Amazon for each review of a printer, scanner, digital camera, camera phone or photo editing software package. You get one chance in the draw for each review submitted in the next 30 days. Entries close on 5th November 2004. Please carefully read the following Conditions and Guidelines before submitting entries.
Entries should be submitted via email to Darren at:
darren at livingroom.org.au or by using this contact form (please ensure you leave a contact email address so that we can contact you regarding your prize if drawn on November 5).
Conditions of entry:
- Reviews will be published on one or more of the above mentioned blogs.
- Reviews must be at least 500 words in length and include a rating out of 10.
- Reviews must be your original work.
- We don't mind if your review has been previously published but we would like to know the URL of where it appears (we will publish a link to it).
- The prize is a $100 gift certificate from Amazon. You may spend it in any way you wish. We will purchase and forward the certificate via email within 14 days of the announcement of your winning the competition.
- If you would like to include a link back to your own blog in your review we would be happy to credit you in this way.
- You may submit as many reviews as you wish and will receive one entry into the competition for each entry. The more you submit the better your chances of winning the $100 gift.
- You may write the review in a format that suits you but we would strongly recommend that you include some or all of the following categories in your format.
- We reserve the right to reject any reviews that do not meet the above requirements or that we feel do not meet a reasonable standard - if we do this you will not receive an entry into the competition. Your reviews do not need to be super technical - but they do need to be reasonably written and show genuine knowledge of and experience with the product under review. We reserve the right to do some editing of the reviews for spelling, grammar and other reasons.
Suggested Review Format/Categories
- Introduction to the cameras features
- Your First Impressions
- Description/Comments on Layout and Design of Product
- Description/Comments on Quality of results (images, printing, scanning, phone) produced
- Description/Comments on Ease of Use/Usability
- Comments on Value for money
- General Comments/Recommendations
- Rating out of 10 and your reasoning for such a rating
- You may wish to provide 1 or two sample pictures with your review
- What you like/What you don't like
- Any relevant links/sources for your review
Once again - we're not after highly technical reviews (although if you're a techy person please submit them) - rather we want real comments about digital imaging products from real users. So be yourself - speak the truth about the product and send your reviews in.
Kodak Announces Changes in European Manufacturing As Part of Broader Plan to Accelerate Digital Imaging Strategy; Plants in U.K. and France to be affected
Eastman Kodak Company today announced changes at manufacturing sites in England and France, reflecting the increasing popularity of digital photography among consumers and customers.
The actions are part of Kodak's three-year program, announced in January; to reduce worldwide employment by 12-15,000 and to reduce total facilities square footage by one-third. These actions are part of Kodak's broader strategy to accelerate growth in its digital businesses and to manage smartly the declining demand for some of the company's traditional products and services.
“Such actions are essential for Kodak to reinforce its leading position in digital imaging products and services, while sustaining and extending its worldwide leadership in traditional photographic products,” said Etienne Bourgeois, Chairman, Eastman Kodak S.A., and Regional Operations Manager, Europe, Africa and Middle Eastern Region.
The following changes to operations will be made at sites in Harrow and Annesley, England, and Chalon, France:
-- The site in Harrow will remain a major center for the production of color photographic paper, and it will become the headquarters for operations in the U.K. About 300 support staff and business unit positions will be transferred to the site from other U.K. locations. At the same time, a facility there that sensitizes film (applying light-sensitive emulsions) for the graphics industry will close by the end of March 2005, affecting about 250 employees. After the changes, the site will continue to employ about 1,400 employees in manufacturing, support, research and business unit functions.
-- The Annesley plant primarily produces consumer photographic film, which is declining, especially in developed markets like Western Europe. As a result, the Annesley plant will close by the end of September 2005, with the resulting loss of about 350 jobs.
-- The site in Chalon will focus on the continued production of two key product lines - health imaging and motion picture print (theater projection) films. However, due to declining demand for consumer films and color photographic paper, production of those products at Chalon will cease by the end of September 2005, with a corresponding reduction in positions. The net impact of the changes will mean a loss of about 270 positions, with the site continuing to employ about 1,800 employees in manufacturing, support, research and business unit functions.
“These are very difficult actions because they impact Kodak people who have for decades demonstrated great skill and an unwavering commitment to serve our customers with quality products, but they are required in light of declining overall demand for traditional photographic products,” said Daniel T. Meek, Director, Global Manufacturing & Logistics, and Senior Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “All employees affected will be treated with respect, with Kodak ensuring they receive proper severance, access to counseling support, as well as outplacement services.”
Meek noted that the move to consolidate some of its manufacturing in Europe is consistent with actions that have occurred at Kodak plants elsewhere in the world, including those in the U.S., Canada, China, Mexico and Australia.
“After these changes, Kodak will still have a strong manufacturing presence in Europe,” Meek said. “Customers can continue to count on Kodak for the high-quality products they have always trusted us to supply.”
Editor's Note: For additional information about Kodak, visit our web site on the Internet at: http://www.kodak.com
Eastman Kodak
The HP Photosmart 2610 All-in-One Printer is designed for home and home office users to produce high quality print, flat bed fax, scan and copy functions all in the one device. It allows printing directly from digital cameras - previewing pictures on its 6.4cm color LCD screen which allows cropping, zooming and rotating of images. Printing and copying is at up to 30 ppm in black and white and 20ppm in color.
Learn more about the HP Photosmart 2610 from the following press release from HP.
HP Press Release
LONDON, 5 October, 2004. HP today announced the launch of two new All-in-Ones, the HP Photosmart 2710 and HP Photosmart 2610. Designed for creative home or home office users, these two All-in-Ones offer a range of high quality print, flatbed fax, scan and copy functions in a compact and sophisticated device.
Both new models offer users integrated home networking with easy set up, enabling fast, multi-user printing, scanning and sharing of photos. The HP Photosmart 2610 and HP Photosmart 2710 All-in-Ones connect to the network using the quick, reliable, built-in 802.3 Ethernet. Additionally, the HP Photosmart 2710 All-in-One connects simply by using the embedded wireless (802.11g) LAN technology for secure, wireless sharing.
Read more at Printer Blog - HP Photosmart 2610 All-in-One Printer
HP Press Release
The HP Officejet 7410 and 7310 All-in-Ones offer uncompromising speed, quality and reliability for the home or small office
London, October 5, 2004. HP today announced the latest products in its high speed All-in-One printer, fax, flatbed scanner and copier range, the HP Officejets 7410 and HP Officejet 7310. The HP Officejet 7410 and Officejet 7310 All-in-Ones are complete printing and imaging solutions, ideal for the busy full-time or part time office professional. Both models offer easy-to-use printing, faxing, scanning and copying in one device that increases productivity and readily fits into available office space.
Features available on both products include up to 4800 x 1200 optimised dpi colour when printing from a computer and 1200-input dpi. HP Photoret IV precision technology with 6-ink colour printing and copying is optional, enabling users to produce true-to-life colour photos and documents . Powerful, fast, black and colour faxing is standard on both new models with or without a PC, at 33.6 kbps.
Read more at Printer Blog - HP Officejet 7410
HP Press Release
The HP Officejet 7410 and 7310 All-in-Ones offer uncompromising speed, quality and reliability for the home or small office
London, October 5, 2004. HP today announced the latest products in its high speed All-in-One printer, fax, flatbed scanner and copier range, the HP Officejets 7410 and HP Officejet 7310. The HP Officejet 7410 and Officejet 7310 All-in-Ones are complete printing and imaging solutions, ideal for the busy full-time or part time office professional. Both models offer easy-to-use printing, faxing, scanning and copying in one device that increases productivity and readily fits into available office space.
Features available on both products include up to 4800 x 1200 optimised dpi colour when printing from a computer and 1200-input dpi. HP Photoret IV precision technology with 6-ink colour printing and copying is optional, enabling users to produce true-to-life colour photos and documents . Powerful, fast, black and colour faxing is standard on both new models with or without a PC, at 33.6 kbps.
Read more at HP Officejet 7310
The HP Photosmart 2710 All-in-One Printer is designed for home and home office users to produce high quality print, flat bed fax, scan and copy functions all in the one device. It allows printing directly from digital cameras - previewing pictures on its 8.8cm color LCD screen which allows cropping, zooming and rotating of images. Printing and copying is at up to 30 ppm in black and white and 20ppm in color.
UK/European Readers buy the HP Photosmart 2710 All-in-One - Multifunction
Learn more about the HP Photosmart 2710 from the following press release from HP.
HP Press Release
LONDON, 5 October, 2004. HP today announced the launch of two new All-in-Ones, the HP Photosmart 2710 and HP Photosmart 2610. Designed for creative home or home office users, these two All-in-Ones offer a range of high quality print, flatbed fax, scan and copy functions in a compact and sophisticated device.
Both new models offer users integrated home networking with easy set up, enabling fast, multi-user printing, scanning and sharing of photos. The HP Photosmart 2610 and HP Photosmart 2710 All-in-Ones connect to the network using the quick, reliable, built-in 802.3 Ethernet. Additionally, the HP Photosmart 2710 All-in-One connects simply by using the embedded wireless (802.11g) LAN technology for secure, wireless sharing.
Read more at Printer Blog - HP Photosmart 2710
HP launches new, high quality wireless printing for personal and business use with the HP Deskjet 6840
LONDON, UK, 5 October, 2004. HP today announced the launch of a networkable printer with breakthrough print speeds for the home and small business user. Developed to meet the productivity demands of households containing multiple computers for both business and personal use, the HP Deskjet 6840 offers users a simple solution for quality printing without wires.
Connection to the computer network is straightforward and requires little to no configuration, ensuring that set-up and use are simplified for all users. Users can share the printer among up to five users either within a wired environment through the built-in Ethernet port or by choosing the embedded wireless (802.11g) technology for complete freedom from wires.
Read more at Printer Blog - HP Deskjet 6840 Printer
“At Photokina 2004, FujiFilm displayed the ”F-NEXT IMAGE VIEWER“ portable photo viewer, which seems pretty standard. It features a 3.6” QVGA screen, 2GB capacity, and CF slot. But that's not important.
What is important is the inclusion of a new image searching function called “Face Search.” Faces pictured in images stored inside the hard drive will be recognized, and the technology allows for searching images in which the same person is pictured.
Although there is already similar technology existing for PCs that will create the same results, FujiFilm has said this technology has been developed to face-search a large volume of pictures PC-less. While it can search for patterns other than faces, FujiFilm's point of view is “people occur most commonly in family pictures,” so the face searching is key.
“
Read more at FujiFilm "Face Search" technology :: TechJapan :: English news on technology from Japan:
Canon have released a firmware update for their 20D DSLR. Get it here. It improves certain memory cards performance and overcomes some shutter release issues.
Press Release
October 4, 2004 - The Plugin Site is proud to announce the PhotoWiz Contest 2004, which is running from October 1 to December 31, 2004. This contest is dedicated to all creatively minded photographers. It offers them the possibility to present the best samples of their work to the public and win a lot of exciting prizes. Everyone is invited to submit his or her photos to this contest.
Time Schedule
The PhotoWiz Contest is conducted in three steps. Every month there will be a new topic for which people can post their photos. In October 2004 participants are allowed to send in their "Best Photo", in November 2004 we will be looking for the "Best Photo Composition" and in December 2004 the "Best Photo Correction" will be reward. At the end of each month a jury will select the best contributions.
The Prizes
A total of 66 prizes worth more than $6400 are offered to the winners. The 16 best images of each of the three contest topics will receive a prize. Additionally the 16 best participants across all contest topics will get an extra prize. The three best participants will even get a PhotoWiz Gold, Silver and Bronze certificate. Additionally the two images that receive the least points from the jury will get a consolation prize.
Here is a list of available prizes: JASC Paint Shop Pro 9, JASC Paint Shop Pro Studio, JASC Paint Shop Pro Photo Album, Cerious Thumbs Plus, nik Color Efex Pro 2.0 Complete, nik Sharpener Pro! Complete, Auto FX Mystical Tint Tone and Color, Auto FX Mystical Lighting, Extensis Mask Pro, LizardTech Genuine Fractals, Subscriptions to the Digital Photography Techniques Magazine, DigitalFilmTools 55mm, Reindeer Graphics Optipix, Kodak DIGITAL GEM Professional, ABSoft Neat Image Pro+, ThePluginSite ColorWasher and FocalBlade.
The Contest Gallery
The PhotoWiz Contest 2004 page is located at http://thepluginsite.com/gallery/photowiz2004/. An interactive contest gallery, which displays the images right after the participants uploaded them, is available at the same URL. Visitors of the Contest Gallery can view the submitted images and add their comments. All contest participants are advised to carefully read the contest rules available at the Contest web page.
Company Info
The Plugin Site is developing freeware and commercial software, but also offers web content about Photoshop-compatible plugins. Our web site offers dozens of software reviews, features the most complete directory of Photoshop plugins, operates a large discussion board as well as search engine and conducts popular graphics contests. We also publish The Plugin Newsletter, which is read by almost 90,000 people worldwide. We also contribute articles to Graphics.com and the Digital Photography Techniques magazine. With more than 300,000 monthly visitors our web site is the most popular web site about Photoshop plugins according to Alexa.com.
D-Link Press Release
PREPARE TO WELCOME THE FUTURE INTO YOUR LIVING ROOM !
D-LINK LAUNCHES NEW WIRELESS MEDIA PLAYER ACROSS EUROPE
London, 8 October 2004 - D-Link, the true leading global manufacturer of broadband, wireless, and networking hardware for Home and Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) environments today announced the D-Link Wireless Media Player that distributes digital music, video and photos stored on PCs to play and view on a television and/or stereo system.
The Wireless Media Player (DSM-320) enhances the usability of both a home network and a home entertainment centre by creating a seamless connection between computers and consumer electronics. The DSM-320 is a product for the digital home; a product segment that D-Link believes is set to grow rapidly in the next few years. D-Link's media player supports all the most widely used standards, such as MP3, JPEG, MPEG, Xvid and QuickTime, for streaming video and audio on home networks.
"The new wireless media player gives consumers access to more content than ever before in the area where they congregate the most, the living room," said Kevin Wen, European President of D-Link. "Now a family can view a catalogued library of digital photos on their TV or listen to pre-set configured MP3s in surround sound stereo, all of which represent the next step in the evolution and convergence of the CE and PC for the digital home. The look and functionality of the media player is coherent with that of other entertainment devices such as DVD players and therefore removes technology barriers for the customer,” concludes Wen.
The Wireless Media Player uses IEEE 802.11g standard to link the home PC to the TV and Hi-Fi system. The media player can also be connected to the PC through a regular Ethernet network cable. DSM-320 connects to the TV via a SCART (with video, A/V and RGB), RCA A/V or S-video cable. It also comes with digital audio outputs for Coax or optical fibre. DSM-320 is a versatile device that can be used for everything from displaying digital photos and videos on a TV to playback of MP3 files on a stereo. The media player comes with a remote control and supports the Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) standard, making it easy to install. The wireless bandwidth is 54Mbps in accordance with IEEE 802.11g.
The recommended UK retail price for the DSM-320 is £158 (excl. VAT).
About D-Link:
D-Link is a worldwide leader and award-winning designer, developer, and true manufacturer of networking, wireless, broadband, digital electronics, and voice and data communications products. These products provide the ideal solution for digital home, Small Office/Home Office (SOHO), Small to Medium Business (SMB), and Workgroup to Enterprise environments.
Established in 1986, D-Link is completely committed to technology excellence and quality production. Throughout the years, D-Link has strengthened its position as one of the industry’s leaders in data networking, wireless, broadband and communication solutions. Worldwide revenues reached US$728 million for the year 2003.
D-Link employs over 1,600 people worldwide and has R&D centres in Taiwan, USA, China and India; 1,000,000sq feet of manufacturing facilities in Taiwan, China, and India; 87 worldwide sales offices in 36 countries.
D-Link is built on a fundamental core competency that is well founded in the concept of communications. With a strong foundation and expertise in networking solutions, D-Link is transforming and continually expanding the scope of technology expertise and leadership to develop cutting-edge communications solutions.
Digital Camera Info reviews the Panasonic DMC-LC50 and writes - 'The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LC50 is a reasonably inexpensive camera, listed at US $249.99. It contains an elegant design and simplistic controls to accommodate digital snapshoters. Why there is no audio recording ability included with the video capture escapes me. The Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT all-glass, 3x optical lens is by far the strongest element included on the camera and does ensure sharp images and advanced quality from a camera in this price range. The LCD screen included is relatively small by comparison to other rivaling models and does not have high resolution. This is a major hindrance for this camera because of the type of user it is targeting. Most point and shoot users rely on the LCD screen for composition of live images, therefore, greater consideration should have been paid to this feature. All in all, the Lumix DMC-LC50 is as stripped down as it comes. Like a car with no AC or power options, this camera will only appeal to a specific type of user and should be seen as such. Whether this was the intention of Panasonic or not, they had to be aware of the camera’s strengths and weaknesses and affordability and simplicity are by far the strengths. There is a strong lens included so if this camera does appeal to you, do not fear poor image quality as that is certainly not the case. View this model as a basic imager for those who desire a stylish automatic camera and generally perceive advanced control and features as a bother rather then a luxury.'
DP Now reviews the Casio Exilim EX-Z40 and writes - 'Image quality was a mixed bag – our sample clearly had a problem that manifested itself in the form of inconsistent sharpness across the frame. The problem is not a disaster, but keen photographers will spot the problem fairly easily. It's hard not to point a finger at the unusual mechanicals featured inside Pentax-made lens, which enables it to retract so tightly, for an explanation of the sharpness issues. If it weren't for the image quality inconsistencies, the EX-Z40 would have earned a 'Recommended' rating easily, but as it stands we can only award it the lower rating - worth considering.'
Get more information and specifications on the Casio Exilim EX-Z40
DP Review reviews the Fujifilm Finepix F810 and writes - 'The FinePix F810 Zoom is a very classy camera ideal for the serious photographer wanting a 'carry anywhere' companion to an SLR. The design, built and speed of operation are superb, and the range of controls comprehensive. Even more importantly, all the everyday photographic functions are easily accessible via external controls or fast, well-designed menus. The 32.5-130mm lens offers more versatility than the more common 38-115mm equiv. found on many similar cameras, and is very sharp across the frame. Resolution is excellent, noise very well controlled and the colors really jump out at you. The ISO 800 mode is not only usable, but very useful too - the low noise means you can often get away without using flash in social situations.'
Get the Latest Price on the Fujifilm Finepix F810 6.3MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom
eDigital Photo reviews the HP Photosmart R707 and writes - 'This handsome, pocketable 5-megapixel camera with classy lines and a stainless steel front panel is a great entry-level model but it includes enough advanced capabilities, plus the highly desirable Panorama feature, to attract some photo enthusiasts. The Adaptive Lighting and Redeye Removing capabilities make it suitable for anyone who wants technically superior images, particularly for printing direct from the camera or its memory card. The first HP model to combine valuable new technologies, the Photosmart R707 is also an indicator of even more technically sophisticated cameras that we can expect to see in the near future.'
KODAK i280 Scanner Steams into i200 Series Flagship Role for Desktop Production Applications
ROCHESTER, N.Y., October 3, 2004 — Launched in January, with advanced image processing and paper-handling features suitable for the most challenging applications, the KODAK i280 Scanner quickly won fans among Kodak’s reseller network for its significant performance and productivity improvements. The i280 Scanner is the third in Kodak’s i200 Series Scanners, first launched in late 2002 with the i250 and i260 Scanner models, and is the most advanced of the series in features, capabilities and throughput.
“The KODAK i280 Scanner’s innovative, inspirational design is the perfect housing for its exceptional standard- and long-sheet feeding capability,” comments Tim Nissen, marketing director of the document imaging software provider, DocuLex. “The price-performance ratio is ideal for those seeking a reliable mid-volume, daily-use document scanner. We highly recommend it for use with DocuLex’s PDF.Capture document scanning/capture, content indexing and PDF conversion software.”
The duplex i280 Scanner delivers color, bitonal, and grayscale images at full-speed—offering the fastest color scanning speeds available in its segment at up to 62 pages per minute (ppm) or 124 images per minute (ipm) and up to 248 ipm with simultaneous output of color and bitonal images. The i280 also features Perfect Page with iThresholding delivering clean, sharp images at rated speed. This reduces pre-sorting, rescans, and post-image processing to improve overall operator productivity.
“Kodak's i280 Scanner provides robust features and functionality at a competitive price point,” said Ken Chin, Gartner vice president and research director, in January. “The capability to can color, bitonal, and grayscale images at the identical speeds is significant for enterprises moving beyond black-and-white applications. Overall, it is a strong addition to Kodak's line of scanners.”
Like all the scanners in the i200 Series, the i280 can be converted to a sheet-fed unit via the industry’s first-in-category A3 dockable flatbed accessory, which easily snaps into the scanner for documents that need special handling. Other options include a post-scan imprinter.
New in 2004 for all the i200 Series Scanners is brightness and contrast control to customize color output for different applications. These scanners also feature:
• 3-D Ultrasonic Multi-Feed detection
• An IEEE-1394 (FireWire) interface to speed setup and image transport
• Energy Star compliance
• VRS compatibility to offer more imaging options and convenience
The i200 Series Scanners are delivered with ISIS and TWAIN drivers, FireWire card and cable and KODAK Capture Software Lite, which supports all innovative features of the scanners. The full production version of KODAK Capture Software is available as an upgrade. KODAK Service & Support is available worldwide with an all-inclusive service offering to meet every business need. Available in the U.S. and Canada, Performance Plus Service for the KODAK i280 Scanner includes: three years of on-site service coverage, with priority response and one extra year of coverage if none is claimed during the first three years; operator training by a Kodak factory-trained engineer; and the KODAK Extra-Large Feeder Consumables Kit.
About Eastman Kodak Company and infoimaging
Kodak is the leader in helping people take, share, print and view images – for memories, for information, for entertainment. The company is a major participant in infoimaging, a $385 billion industry composed of devices (digital cameras and flat-panel displays), infrastructure (online networks and delivery systems for images) and services & media (software, film and paper enabling people to access, analyze and print images). With sales of $13.3 billion in 2003, the company comprises several businesses: Health, supplying the healthcare industry with traditional and digital image capture and output products and services; Graphic Communications Group, offering on-demand color printing and networking publishing systems consisting of three wholly owned subsidiaries: Encad, Inc., NexPress Solutions, and Kodak Versamark; Commercial Imaging, offering image capture, output and storage products and services to businesses and government; Display & Components, which designs and manufactures state-of-the-art organic light-emitting diode displays as well as other specialty materials, and delivers imaging sensors to original equipment manufacturers; and Digital & Film Imaging Systems, providing consumers, professionals and cinematographers with digital and traditional products and services.
Speed, simple operation and Kodak’s renowned image quality will boost productivity on virtually every desktop
Get the Latest Price on the Kodak i30 Scanner
ROCHESTER, N.Y., October 3, 2004 — In June, Eastman Kodak Company announced two document scanners with advanced image processing features that deliver exceptional image quality, productivity, and ease of use for customers in small offices or small-group applications within large organizations. For color and black-and-white documents alike, the KODAK i30 Scanner captures one side of documents at speeds up to 25 pages per minute (PPM), while the KODAK i40 Scanner captures both sides of documents simultaneously at speeds up to 50 images per minute (IPM). These small scanners fit easily in any desktop setting, and feature a 50-page-capacity automatic document feeder that smoothly handles a wide variety of documents. Even inexperienced or infrequent users will find the i30 and i40 scanners easy to use, as features like multi-feed detection, autocrop and deskew, and color dropout for forms processing are standard and automatic. At U.S. list prices of $799 for the i30 model and $1,195 for the i40 model, the scanners offer an unprecedented level of price/performance for end users.
Kodak loaded both models with innovative features previously common only to higher-volume scanners, to maximize productivity and value to customers with lower volume scanning needs:
• Perfect Page with iThresholding, automatically adjusts the scanner to all document types and conditions, improving character recognition rates and producing high-quality scanned images from even poor-quality original documents – increasing productivity by reducing the need for post-image processing.
• Autocrop and deskew, available for both white and black imaging backgrounds as the customer chooses, improve productivity and simplicity of operation by virtually eliminating the need for time-consuming rescans.
• Brightness and contrast controls allow end users to customize color output for specific applications, improving readability and further reducing the need for rescanning.
• A fast USB 2.0 interface enables easy, plug-and-play connectivity and rapid transfer of images. The USB 2.0 card and cable are included for customers’ convenience and instant deployment.
• High-value, professional-level bundled software offers easy to use features that maximize the value delivered from the i30 and i40 models right out of the box. KODAK Capture Software, Lite, has sufficient functionality for typical workgroup applications and can be upgraded easily to the full version. ReadIRIS Pro CE provides key office productivity functions such as optical character recognition and scanning directly to searchable PDF files, enabling the user to search scanned documents for textual information. Also included are demo versions of Kofax’s Capio which offers professional-strength document capture for desktop information management and Pixel Translations QuickScanTM Pro, the out-of-the-box solution for document and data capture for small to mid-sized businesses making the move to an automated capture environment.
• Industry-standard ISIS and exclusive, Kodak-developed TWAIN drivers enable Kodak’s advanced image processing at the scanners’ rated speed and provide speedy system integration with a wide variety of document management, workflow, archiving, and forms-processing applications.
• Both models are VRS compatible, offering customers even more imaging options and convenience.
“It’s significant that Kodak brought the benefits of its advanced imaging features to yet another segment of the document scanner market,” said Erwin Schwarzl, general manager of Kodak’s Document Imaging business. “Kodak offers the broadest product portfolio in the production scanning industry and this year, customers in the workgroup segment can maximize their operation like our higher-volume end users have been doing for years. The i30 and i40 Scanners reflect our ongoing commitment to deliver innovation our customers can count on.”
KODAK Service & Support offers an optional upgrade of the one-year mail-in warranty, to two years of Advanced Unit Replacement (AUR) coverage that provides next-business-day replacement. Consumables are also included for the two years at U. S. list prices of $129 for the i30 scanner and $149 for the i40 scanner. KODAK Service & Support service agreements protect customers’ hardware investments, with fast response times and phone support to resolve questions quickly and maximize scanner uptime.
About Eastman Kodak Company and infoimaging
Kodak is the leader in helping people take, share, print and view images – for memories, for information, for entertainment. The company is a major participant in infoimaging, a $385 billion industry composed of devices (digital cameras and flat-panel displays), infrastructure (online networks and delivery systems for images) and services & media (software, film and paper enabling people to access, analyze and print images). With sales of $13.3 billion in 2003, the company comprises several businesses: Health, supplying the healthcare industry with traditional and digital image capture and output products and services; Graphic Communications Group, offering on-demand color printing and networking publishing systems consisting of three wholly owned subsidiaries: Encad, Inc., NexPress Solutions, and Kodak Versamark; Commercial Imaging, offering image capture, output and storage products and services to businesses and government; Display & Components, which designs and manufactures state-of-the-art organic light-emitting diode displays as well as other specialty materials, and delivers imaging sensors to original equipment manufacturers; and Digital & Film Imaging Systems, providing consumers, professionals and cinematographers with digital and traditional products and services.
professionals and cinematographers with digital and traditional products and services.
Press Release
A new high power standard zoom lens designed for exclusive use with digital (APS-C) SLR cameras
AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II LD ASPHERICAL (IF) MACRO
Photokina, Cologne, Germany, September 28, 2004 - Mr. Morio Ono, President of Tamron Co., Ltd., announced the successful development of the AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) MACRO (Model A14), a new high power zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors.
The new AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) MACRO is a high power zoom lens for exclusive use with digital (APS-C size) SLR cameras that inherits the product concept of the existing AF28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 XR zoom lens. Even two years after its introduction, the current AF28-300mm is still a favorite and highly evaluated by photographers around the world as a representative model of high power zoom lenses. With the market influx of digital SLR cameras in recent years, the use of high power zoom lenses has become increasingly popular since high power zooms provide the convenience of handling many photographic scenes and the capability of shooting ultra telephoto shots without changing lenses. The popularity of this focal length led Tamron to initiate the development of new zoom lenses to further meet the needs of digital SLR photographers. The result is the successful development of a new zoom lens exclusively for use on digital SLR cameras. The wide to ultra tele focal range of this lens will allow digital SLR camera owners to enjoy digital photography with comfort and convenience.
- “Di (Digitally Integrated design) -II” is the designation Tamron puts on lenses designed for exclusive use with digital (APS-C size) SLR cameras, featuring optical systems optimized to meet the performance characteristics of digital cameras.
- “Di-II” lenses cannot be used with digital SLR cameras using image sensors that are larger than that of an APS-C size imager, or with 35mm film SLR cameras.
Main Features
- Dedicated for Digital SLR Cameras
By incorporating an optical design for exclusive use with digital (APS-C) SLR cameras, this high power zoom lens provides the focal length equivalent to Tamron's 28-300mm (when converted to a 35mm format). Therefore, you can meet almost all photographic opportunities with this single zoom lens without changing lenses. When paired with the SP AF11-18mm zoom lens, simultaneously introduced by Tamron at Photokina, you can enjoy thoroughly digital SLR photography with the combined focal length coverage of 17-300mm.
- Optical System Uses Special Glass and is Optimized for Digital SLR Characteristics in order to Enhance Optical Quality in a Compact Design
The new AF18-200mm high power zoom lens from Tamron features an entirely new optical design using XR (Extra Refractive Index) glass in an innovative way in order to optimize the overall distribution of optical power throughout the entire zoom range. This design reduces various aberrations to the absolute minimum and achieves remarkable downsizing at the same time. In addition, three hybrid aspherical lens elements and two LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements are used to accomplish effective compensation of on-axis and lateral chromatic aberrations, a critical factor to enhance the optical quality in digital photography. As a result, the lens provides outstanding optical quality in a multi-purpose zoom lens.
- Optical Design Dedicated to Digital SLR Photography by Optimizing the Angles of Incidences of Light Rays Reaching the Imager
The zoom lens uses a new optical system designed to confine the changing angles of incidences of light rays reaching the imager within a certain scope over the entire image field from the center to the periphery, by considering the effects of variances due to zooming.
- Enhanced Peripheral Illumination
Peripheral light fall-off is minimized when compared with that of conventional lenses for film cameras so that images are uniformly bright from the center to the periphery.
- Outstanding Resolution
Since the lens is designed exclusively for digital SLR photography, it provides high image quality in terms of resolution, contrast and flatness of image field.
- Internal Surface Coating to Reduce Ghosting and Flare
Ghosting and flare caused by aberrations are annoying factors in digital SLR photography, so Tamron has adopted various countermeasures against the problem including the employment of “Internal Surface Coatings” (i.e., multiple-layer coatings on cemented surfaces of plural elements) and new multiple-layer coating technology on ordinary elements in order to minimize reflections that occur when light enters through the front element and to reduce image degrading effects caused by the imagers themselves.
- Revolutionary MFD - 0.45m over the Entire Zoom Range for 1:3.7 Macro Capability
The new 18-200mm zoom lens realizes an MFD (Minimum Focus Distance) of 0.45m over the entire zoom range, which is better than that of the conventional 28-300mm zoom lens, by the employment of a new optical/mechanical design configuration. Since the maximum magnification ratio at f=200mm is 1:3.7, you can enjoy close-up photography easily and conveniently.
- High Power, Yet Compact and Lightweight Thanks to New Mechanical Artifices
Complicated mechanisms are built in the compact body thanks to new mechanical artifices. The lens is a multi-purpose zoom lens, yet excellent portability and ease of use are assured. A number of invisible engineering innovations required to downsize the lens, produce high precision parts and increase durability are incorporated in the new AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) MACRO since manufacturing this type of zoom lens with such complicated mechanisms inside was almost impossible with conventional manufacturing technology.
- Zoom Lock Mechanism Incorporated
The Zoom Lock prevents unwanted barrel extension when carrying the lens/camera combination.
- Flower-shaped Lens Hood
A glare-reducing flower-shaped lens hood is included as a standard accessory. The special hood provides optimum shading of superfluous light rays that enter from the rectangular frame outside the image field.
- New External Design Conveys “High Performance, High Precision Image” as One of the New Di-II Series
Improvements have been made to the external design by adding a gold-colored band between the focus and zoom rings to enhance the appearance and make it stand out as a Di-II lens. The rubber patterns of the zoom and focus control rings have been improved at the same time to compliment the digital camera design style and to provide better handling.
Press Release
A new high performance zoom lens designed for exclusive use with digital (APS-C) SLR cameras covering the ultra wideangle range
SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD ASPHERICAL (IF)
Photokina, Cologne, Germany, September 28, 2004 - Mr. Morio Ono, President of Tamron Co., Ltd., announced the successful development of the SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) (Model A13), a new high performance ultra wideangle zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors.
The new SP AF11-18mm F/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF), an ultra wideangle zoom lens, is Tamron's first lens designed for exclusive use with digital SLR cameras using APS-C size image sensors. The lens provides reliable performance in a compact size to meet the needs of digital SLR camera users pursuing creativity in wideangle photography. The lens uses a new optical system specially designed for digital SLR cameras, in addition to the use of a glass-molded aspherical element having a large clear aperture, hybrid aspherical elements, and elements using such special glass materials as high index/high dispersion glass and low dispersion optical glass, for outstanding optical performance.
- “Di (Digitally Integrated design)-II ” is the designation Tamron puts on lenses designed for exclusive use with digital (APS-C size) SLR cameras, featuring optical systems optimized to meet the performance characteristics of digital cameras.
- “Di-II” lenses cannot be used with digital SLR cameras using image sensors that are larger than that of an APS-C size imager, or with 35mm film SLR cameras.
Main Features
- Dedicated for Digital SLR Cameras
Through the employment of an optical design for exclusive use with digital (APS-C) SLR cameras, an ultra wideangle zoom lens with a focal length equivalent to a 17-28mm when converted to that of a 35mm full size film camera lens has been realized. Using this lens along with the digital SLR-dedicated AF18-200mm zoom lens introduced by Tamron simultaneously, you can enjoy creative digital SLR photography with a wide choice of angles of view.
- Features an Optical System Optimized for Characteristics of Digital Cameras
The optical system uses one element each of HID (High Index/High Dispersion glass) and LD (Low Dispersion) glass to minimize on-axis and lateral chromatic aberrations that are the greatest hindrance to high optical quality. In addition, the lens uses a high-precision, large clear aperture, glass-molded hybrid aspherical element and two hybrid aspherical elements to thoroughly compensate for spherical and chromatic aberrations and distortion, in order to achieve outstanding optical quality.
- Optical Design Dedicated to Digital SLR Photography by Optimizing the Angles of Incidences of Light Rays Reaching the Imager
The zoom lens uses a new optical system designed to confine the changing angles of incidences of light rays reaching the imager within a certain scope over the entire image field from the center to the periphery, by considering the effects of variances due to zooming.
- Enhanced Peripheral Illumination
Peripheral light fall-off is minimized when compared with that of conventional lenses for film cameras so that images are uniformly bright from the center to the periphery.
- Outstanding Resolution
Since the lens is designed exclusively for digital SLR photography, it provides high image quality in terms of resolution, contrast and flatness of image field.
- Internal Surface Coating to Reduce Ghosting and Flare
Ghosting and flare caused by aberrations are annoying factors in digital SLR photography, so Tamron has adopted various countermeasures against the problem including the employment of “Internal Surface Coatings” (i.e., multiple-layer coatings on cemented surfaces of plural elements) and new multiple-layer coating technology on ordinary elements in order to minimize reflections that occur when light enters through the front element and to reduce image degrading effects caused by the imagers themselves.
- Flower-shaped Lens Hood
A glare-reducing flower-shaped lens hood is included as a standard accessory. The special hood provides optimum shading of superfluous light rays that enter from the rectangular frame outside the image field.
- New External Design Conveys “High Performance, High Precision Image” as One of the New Di-II Series
Improvements have been made to the external design by adding a gold-colored band above the focus ring to enhance the appearance and make it stand out as a Di-II lens. The rubber patterns of the zoom and focus control rings have been improved at the same time to compliment the digital camera design style and to provide better handling.
Press Release
DALSA’s 22-Megapixel Trueframe CCD in Mamiya’s New Medium-Format Digital SLR Camera
Mamiya chose DALSA's FTF4052C 22-million pixel CCD for their innovative medium-format digital SLR
(Cologne, Germany, Photokina 2004, September 28 2004)--DALSA announced today the integration of its FTF4052C TrueFrame™ image sensor into the Mamiya ZD, the world’s first medium format digital SLR camera that is both fully integrated and portable. DALSA worked intimately with Mamiya, a name synonymous with excellence and innovation in professional photographic cameras and lenses, to develop this portable solution. DALSA’s 22 megapixel sensor was selected for its uncompromising performance, unmatched output speed, high dynamic range, excellent highlight handling and low power consumption.
The Mamiya ZD with the FTF4052C introduces a new era in professional digital photography, one that has been eagerly anticipated by commercial and studio photographers. In response to market demand for a completely untethered solution, the Mamiya ZD is light-weight, designed for handheld operation and ideal for “on-location” photography.
Designed by DALSA’s world-renowned Professional Imaging group in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, the FTF4052C image sensor has a resolution of 4008 x 5344 pixels for creating extremely detailed, high quality images. The large CCD image sensor suits the camera’s 645-optical-format enabling the use of any camera lens, without compromising the angle of view. The sensor meets the photography market’s demands for optimal imaging in high and low lighting conditions, high contrast for clear imaging and high frame rate. The FTF4052C has unmatched dynamic range and superior color fidelity – qualities that are imperative to commercial and professional photography.
“We are very pleased that Mamiya has incorporated our 22 megapixel sensor into the Mamiya ZD” commented Brian Doody, President of DALSA Corporation’s Digital Imaging Business. “Our superior image sensor technology is an excellent match for the demanding requirements of medium format photographers.”
In addition to the FTF4052C sensor, DALSA also provided a custom ICCD image processing chip, developed in conjunction with Mamiya’s technical team, to meet the requirements of the new Mamiya ZD camera. The customer also made use of DALSA’s TDA9991 and SAA8103 support and drive chipsets to enable easier sensor integration into their revolutionary camera.
For more information on DALSA's professional imaging sensors, visit www.dalsa.com/pi.
About DALSA Corporation
DALSA is an international high performance semiconductor and electronics company that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets digital imaging products and solutions, in addition to providing wafer foundry services. DALSA’s core competencies are in specialized integrated circuit and electronics technology, and highly engineered semiconductor wafer processing. Products include image sensor components; electronic digital cameras; and semiconductor wafer foundry services for use in MEMS, high voltage semiconductors, image sensors and mixed-signal CMOS chips.
DALSA is a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “DSA”. Based in Waterloo, ON. Canada, the company has operations in Bromont, PQ; Eindhoven, NL; Munich, Germany and Tokyo, Japan.
About Mamiya
For over 50 years, Mamiya has been a name synonymous with excellence and innovation in professional photographic cameras and lenses. Mamiya's dedication to the professional and advanced amateur markets ranges from the original folding, compact Mamiya 6 rangefinder camera of the 1940's to the recent introduction of the Mamiya 7 - the world’s only 6x7 rangefinder camera with interchangeable lenses. Mamiya continues to be a pioneer by continually improving and refining the finest professional photographic products with state-of-art advancements such as superior apochromatic lens technology and practical, ergonomic camera design and function. For more information, visit www.mamiya.com.
Tom's Hardware Guide has a good report on Photokina.
'With thousands of square meters of floor space on two levels, all completely filled, the Photokina is an impressive trade fair. And it's no longer a secret: All eyes are now riveted on digital images. New players and "historic" manufacturers are all here offering all sorts of equipment, from consumer products to ultra-professional monsters. In an atmosphere that's relaxed yet studious, huge displays stand alongside small ones, while loudspeakers try to out-shout each other to attract visitors and reporters. But though the total effect may be akin to a photography bazaar, the products being presented this year are anything but frivolous. Several major trends that were already visible two years ago have been confirmed, to the delight of anyone for whom photography is a passion.' - read more at Digital Photography's Present and Future Live at Photokina - Introduction
Brother have just sent us a press release announcing four new Multifunctional printers which we've updated to our new Printer Blog. They are:
- Brother MFC 5840CN 6 in 1 Multifunction Center
- Brother MFC 5440CN 5 in 1 Multifuntion Center
- Brother MFC 3340CN 6 in 1 Mulfifunction Center
- Brother MFC 3240c Multifuntion Center
Following is the press release from Brother announcing these four new multifunction printers.
Brother Press Release
Brother Introduces Four New Color Multi-Function Center Models Focused on the SOHO Business Environment
BRIDGEWATER, N.J. --(Business Wire)-- Oct. 1, 2004 Continuing a Strong Tradition of Providing SOHO User the Best Combination in Value and Performance
Brother International Corporation introduces four new business-class color inkjet Multi-Function Center(R) (MFC) products targeting home office and small business users. Each new model in this line-up has an estimated street price of less than $200+, thus making these a tremendous value. All the more amazing is that 3 of the 4 models include a standard network (Ethernet) interface(2). The new line-up includes two traditional sheet-fed based models: the MFC-3240c and MFC-3340cn, and two flatbed models: the MFC-5440cn and MFC-5840cn. All are scheduled to be available in October 2004.
"Although the home/consumer market is currently the most explosive area of the color inkjet all-in-one market, the SOHO user continues to be a constant for driving functionality and performance," says Don Cummins, Vice President of Marketing at Brother. "Our newest line color inkjet MFCs set key standards for value and performance for the SOHO business environment."
Each model in the line-up provides a home office or small office with 33.6K bps color faxing, up to 6000x1200 dpi* color printing, color copying, color scanning and PC Faxing. Specifically the MFC-3340cn and MFC-5840cn also include Brother's PhotoCapture Center(R) feature which offers media card slots for CompactFlash(R), xD-Picture Card(TM), Secure Digital(TM), Memory Stick(R) and SmartMedia(R) cards(1). Users can easily print a preview index page (thumbnail images of all photos on the media card) or print individual digital photos from the media card: with or without the PC being connected.
One of the key values to a SOHO user will be the built-in Ethernet interface(2) found on the MFC-3340cn, MFC-5440cn and MFC-5840cn for connecting to a wired or wireless network today or in the future. Today's technology has made it much easier for small and home businesses to install a network. This makes it possible to purchase one Multi-function product to share with multiple users in a network environment. Once connected, printing, scanning(3), sending a PC Fax and accessing the PhotoCapture Center(R) feature are all possible over the network.
MFC-3240c & MFC-3340cn... Traditional Sheet-fed Models
For those users who require a low cost color inkjet solution in a traditional sheet-fed design, these new models provide significant features over the competition. Both the MFC-3240c and MFC-3340cn provide fast print speeds up to 20ppm black and up to 15ppm color, high quality 6000x1200 dpi* resolution, a 33.6k bps fax modem, and 20-page auto document feeder capacity. In addition, they incorporate a front-loading 100-sheet paper tray capacity and 2400 dpi (interpolated) color scanning.
The MFC-3340cn, as the step-up model, also includes a built-in (Ethernet) interface(2)., Brother's PhotoCapture Center(R) feature which offers media card slots for the most popular digital camera media(1), and 16MB memory (MFC-3240c has 8MB standard memory).
The estimated street prices will be $129.99+ for the MFC-3240c and $159.99+ for the MFC-3340cn.
MFC-5440cn & MFC-5840cn.........Flatbed Models with Auto Document Feeding
Both the MFC-5440cn and MFC-5840cn, include a versatile flatbed design plus a robust 35-page automatic document feed capacity to handle the demanding and variable copying, faxing and scanning requirements in the small business environment. Also, both models include the key standards that Brother has set for this new line-up....fast print speeds up to 20ppm black and up to 15ppm color, high quality 6000x1200 dpi* resolution, a 33.6k bps fax modem, and a built-in (Ethernet) interface(2).
As the step-up model, the MFC-5840cn adds Brother's PhotoCapture Center(R) feature which offers media card slots for the most popular digital camera media(1) and "expanded" paper capacity up to 350 pages. This expanded paper capacity makes the first color inkjet all-in-one under $200 with dual paper input trays.
The MFC-5840cn's dual paper trays consist of one paper tray with 100-sheet capacity, and the 2nd paper tray with 250-sheet capacity. The top 100-sheet paper tray allows the user to use either premium inkjet paper or high-quality photo paper, while the lower 250-sheet tray can then be dedicated to 250-sheets of plain paper. The MFC-5840cn can be set up to print all incoming faxes on the plain paper - and the high-quality color photos on the glossy photo paper. Perfect for an office environment, since now there is no need to switch paper back and forth from plain paper to photo paper as the application changes.
The estimated street prices will be $149.99+ for the MFC-5440cn and $199.99+ for the MFC-5840cn, both outstanding values.
Consumables & Wireless Option
Each of these models feature a 4-cartridge ink system that uses a separate cartridge for each color. The user only needs to replace the color that is empty, therefore reducing the amount of ink that is wasted.
The standard cartridges are LC-41BK (up to 500 pages @ 5% pages coverage), LC-41Y (Yellow), LC-41M (Magenta), and LC-41C (Cyan).... each of the color cartridges provide a yield of up to 400 pages each @ 5% page coverage). In addition, the MFC-3240c, 3340cn, 5440cn, and 5840cn are also compatible with a high yield black cartridge, LC-41HYBK (up to 900 pages @ 5% page coverage).
Also each new model has an external wireless network option available (NC-2200W), that can be connected via the USB 2.0 Full Speed interface.
ABOUT BROTHER INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
Bridgewater, New Jersey is the corporate headquarters for Brother in the Americas, from Canada to South America. It has fully integrated sales, marketing services, manufacturing, research and development capabilities located in the U.S. In addition to its headquarters in Bridgewater, New Jersey, Brother has facilities in California, Illinois, Massachusetts and Tennessee, as well as subsidiaries in Ohio, Canada, Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Mexico. For more information you can visit the web site at http://www.brother.com.
NOTE: All trademarks and registered trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective companies
Image RecallPress Release
ImageRecall Announces ImageRecall 3.0 Now Supports More Memory Cards And Image Formats Than Any Other Digital Photo Recovery Software Including Raw Image Formats
Release Date: 28/09/2004 - The software gives users a backup plan to address the lack of safeguards in the storage and download process of digital cameras including new features to help keep photos safe after recovery.
Photokina -Cologne, Germany-September 28, 2004-Today's digital cameras make it very convenient for users to take pictures without worrying about the cost of wasting film. However, most of these cameras make it just as easy to accidentally lose those pictures. There is no way to undo “delete all” on most cameras. Downloading images to a PC is fraught with danger, as well. To help camera users combat these risks, ImageRecall announces ImageRecall 3.0 (IR3) can now recover all image types including all RAW formats. With its new file correction systems, ImageRecall also has the ability to recover and rebuild photographs when corruption occurs. IR3 supports all memory cards and is able to mount recoveries from cards that even Windows is unable to access.
“By some estimates, digital cameras will all but replace film cameras by 2008. Consumer and professional photographers are just beginning to understand the risks and benefits of storing all their images in memory and on their PC,” notes Kevin Bordley, ImageRecall's product marketing manager. “Through Peak Development and now MiG, we have been in the card business for over 10 years, well before the advent of digital cameras. The most important thing to remember about card failures is that each one is unique. We design our software to continually address new issues our customers encounter.”
IR3 is designed to be faster and easier to use. It allows users to review photos during the recovery process, backup corrupted cards on their hard drive until there is time to do a full recovery, select recovery of only specific file types and pause in-progress recoveries until a later time without starting from the beginning. IR3 also helps users protect saved images and prevent future problems by allowing them to retrieve images saved on corrupted CDs, save recovered images directly to an existing photo directory on their PC or CD and determine if a card is damaged and should be returned for replacement.
Because ImageRecall understands that each recovery is unique, the company continues to work on new ways to help customers recover their precious family memories and costly professional images. For simple one-time recoveries where no major corruptions have occurred, there are plans to rollout a simpler recovery option by the end of Q4. ImageRecall has also addressed other recovery issues for the large number of new devices coming out that require removable memory storage by supporting recoveries from CDs, USB pen drives and digital images from cards in mobile phones.
ImageRecall will be exhibiting its new software at Photokina in Hall 11.1, Aisle E, Booth #019 and handing out prevention tips that outline how to avoid losing digital photos.
Availability and Pricing
ImageRecall 3.0 is available now from the ImageRecall Web site (www.ImageRecall.com). ImageRecall can be downloaded as either a free trial or a full version for £ 24.99 and can also be ordered on CD. The product is also available through retail stores including Jessops and a network of European distributors in the following countries: Finland, Ireland, The Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Estonia, Italy and through Peak Development in the UK.
About ImageRecall
ImageRecall is a subsidiary of Media Innovations Group (MiG) based in the UK, specializing in digital image and data recovery. The company is built on the foundations of a technical support center that has focused on digital camera and media support for the last 10 years. ImageRecall has a wealth of knowledge and experience in this market that is unrivalled in the UK providing advice, support, repair and recovery on all of the popular types of memory cards.