Nikon unveils D2Xs digital SLR
By
Mike Tomkins
(Thursday, June 1, 2006 - 00:01 EDT)
Nikon Inc. has today unveiled a new professional digital SLR closely based on its existing D2X model, the Nikon D2Xs.
As with the original D2X, the D2xs featuring a 12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor, and offers five frames per second shooting plus the ability to shoot even faster - up to eight frames per second - by switching to a lower resolution 6.8 megapixel mode. This high-speed burst mode operates by reading only from the center of the imager, which means that to get the higher speed, the focal length crop changes from the regular 1.5x of a DX sensor, to 2.0x. Probably the most significant changes in the D2Xs' functionality relativeto its predecessor are in this area. Where the D2X relied on red markings in the viewfinder to indicate the smaller cropped area, the D2Xs indicates the area by shading everything that is cropped out of the image, leaving the uncropped portion of the image somewhat brighter. This method seems like it should be much more intuitive, making it easier to frame cropped images quickly - although the shading can be disabled should the user desire. Another improvement related to the cropped mode is a change to the metering system - both matrix and center-weighted metering now adjust to work solely within the cropped area when in that mode. The D2Xs uses the same Multi-Cam2000 AF sensor found in the D2H and D2X, offering 11-point focusing with nine cross-type sensors (only nine of these points are available in the high-speed cropped mode, but all nine are the cross-type sensors). The LCD display used in the D2Xs has been changed to the one used in the D200, which offers a 170-degree wide viewing angle and is said to have been factory calibrated for consistent color. A new EN-EL4a battery refreshes the original EN-EL4, and offers 2500 mAh - good for roughly 3,500 shots. Other updates include a black and white image mode (Raw files shot in this mode can have the color restored if needed), in-camera image cropping of any image type in playback mode, the ability to save and load camera settings (great if you share a pool of cameras between photographers), a "Recent Settings" menu as seen in the D200 (which allows you to quickly recall settings you changed recently to adjust them without digging through the menu system), more ISO sensitivity settings (although the overall range is unchanged) including an Auto setting, a new menu color scheme, and increased burst depth. You can also now select the duration of focus lock when using focus tracking, load multiple custom tone curves into the camera, and select the desired shutter speed when using the automatic ISO sensitivity setting. Image authentication is possible using a separately available solution consisting of both hardware (a USB key) / and software, so as to ensure the software hasn't been hacked. The D2Xs will also be compatible with Nikon's upcoming Capture NX software, as well as a remote control package dubbed "Camera Control Pro". The Nikon D2xs should be available in late June, with an estimated street price of $4699.95 - about 6% cheaper than the original D2X model when it shipped (for $4999.95) a little over a year ago. Full specifications courtesy of Nikon, along with an introductory document, product photos, and the official press release follow below. | Nikon D2Xs |  | | General | | Camera Type | Pro SLR | | Manufacturer | Nikon | | Model Number | D2Xs | | Dimensions | 6.2 x 5.9 x 3.4"
157.5 x 149.5 x 85.5mm | | Weight | 1,070.0 g
37.4 oz | | Planned Price | $4699.95 | | Planned Availability | Jun 2006 | | Image Capture | | Sensor Type | Nikon DX Sony
12.84 megapixels (total)
12.40 megapixels (effective) | | Focal Length Multiplier | 1.55 | | Aspect Ratio | 3:2 | | Image Dimensions | 4288 x 2848 (12.2 megapixels)3216 x 2136 (6.9 megapixels)2400 x 1600 (3.8 megapixels)2144 x 1424 (3.1 megapixels)1600 x 1064 (1.7 megapixels) | | Image Preview / Review | | Viewfinder | Yes, SLR type, eye-level pentaprism
100% field of view | | LCD | 2.5", 230,000 pixels | | Lens | | Lens Type | Interchangeable Lens | | Lens Mount | Nikon F mount | | Focusing System | 11-area TTL phase detection (Nikon Multi-CAM 2000)
Manual Focus possible (0) steps | | Exposure | | ISO Sensitivity | 100 - 800, plus five steps up to 3200 via ISO boost function | | Shutter Speed | 30 - 1/8000 second | | Exposure Modes | Aperture, Shutter, Manual | | Metering Modes | 3D color matrix, Center-weighted, Spot | | Exposure Compensation | +/- 5.0EV in 1/3EV increments | | White Balance | Hybrid - Auto, 6 manual settings, 5 presets, 31 Kelvin settings, Manual | | Creative | | Scene Modes | None | | Self Timer | Yes, 2/5/10/20 seconds | | Storage | | Recording Medium | CompactFlash Type 1, CompactFlash Type 2, Microdrive | | File System | FAT16, FAT32, complies with Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF) | | File Format | CCD-RAW, TIFF-RGB, RAW, JPEG (EXIF 2.21) | | Connectivity | | Video | Yes, NTSC / PAL switchable | | Computer | USB 2.0 High Speed | | Other | Optional 802.11b/g wireless | | Power | | Battery Type | Lithium Ion rechargeable | | Battery Form Factor | Proprietary EN-EL4a | | Product Bundle | | Software | PictureProject | | Battery / Charger | 1 x Proprietary EN-EL4a Lithium Ion rechargeable battery and charger | | Flash Memory | 0.0MB | | Other | | Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliant | Yes | | Internal Microphone | Yes | | Tripod Mount | Yes, Metal | | Remote Control | Yes, Optional Wireless, Cabled | | More Photos |  |  |  | 
(Viewfinder display in high-speed cropped mode) | | |
D2XS™ DIGITAL SLR CAMERA: MAJOR FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS Major features - Image sensor with 12.4 effective megapixels
The CMOS image sensor provides both high image quality and high-speed performance. And despite the extremely high resolution achieved by 12.4 effective megapixels, image data is recorded at exceptionally high speed through use of a 4-channel output method.
- Image-processing algorithm designed to produce high-quality images
The D2xs provides Nikon photographers with the advanced opportunity to produce the significantly larger image files demanded by today's photographers. But with Nikon, high image quality is so much more than a matter of megapixels. In fact, a plethora of other high-level technologies are required to achieve the outstandingly high level of performance that today’s photographer’s need, and these are exactly what the D2xs provides.
- Continuous shooting at 5fps at 12.4 megapixels, 8fps at 6.8 megapixels
With high resolution 12.4 megapixel performance, one might expect a slow moving camera; not with D2xs. Within all of its high performance is picture taking speed up to 5 frames per second at 12.4 megapixel resolution, and an astounding 8 frames per second at 6.8 megapixels.
- High-Speed Crop function
Continuous shooting rate up to 8 frames per second is possible when using of Nikon's exclusive High-Speed Crop function that records the central portion of the frame at 6.8 megapixel resolution. What’s more, the viewfinder has been enhanced with an automatic viewfinder mask that activates when the High-speed Crop mode is selected for much more accurate and confident composition.
- Broad color modes
The Adobe RGB profile provides a broader range of colors than the sRGB profile, making it a more suitable choice for professional photographers. The D2xs has also been optimized for post-processing of images with the ability to select Adobe RGB from either Mode I or Mode III in camera. There’s also an additional new Black & White color mode available to further expand the photographer’s creative possibilities.
- 11-area AF system with 9 cross-type AF sensors
Updated to perform even faster and with greater precision in the D2xs, the 11-area AF system employs Nikon's advanced Multi-CAM 2000 AF Sensor Module. Of these 11 widely spread AF sensors, 9 are cross-type sensors positioned in the logical rule-of-thirds array. All 9 cross-type sensors remain active when using High-speed Crop mode.
- Advanced 3D-Color Matrix Metering II
Nikon’s acclaimed 1,005-pixel RGB Exposure/Color Matrix Metering Sensor instantly achieves optimum exposure, even in complex lighting situations.
- Creative in-camera trimming, Image Overlay and Multiple Exposure
A newly added feature, in-camera trimming, allows RAW, TIFF and JPEG images taken using the D2xs to be trimmed within the camera to produce images of reduced display sizes ranging from 640 x 480 to 2,560 x 1,920 pixels. The Multiple Exposure function creates a single image from up to 10 exposures. The D2xs also offers an Image Overlay function that merges selected RAW (NEF) files already stored on the CF card to create a new image file within the camera.
- 2.5-inch LCD monitor with a wide-viewing angle; large enough to display various settings and information for easy recognition
The D2xs incorporates a large 2.5-inch 230,000-pixel high-resolution LCD monitor display with an ultra-wide 170-degree viewing angle for clearer viewing. It also offers larger type fonts that improve access to color-coded menus. Further evolution of the Recent Settings menus adds the ability to delete current settings or lock them to prevent accidental changes. And the D2xs also offers RGB Histogram display enabling images to be more accurately assessed in the large LCD monitor. Furthermore, it is also possible to display channel-specific ([R] red, [G] green or [B] blue) histograms for immediate and more detailed image verification.
- Excellent response with the same quick power up and world's fastest 37ms shutter release time lag as the D2x
Instant startup and a class-leading shutter release time lag of a mere 37 milliseconds combine with optimized systems throughout to maximize all-around performance and deliver the response needed to handle even the most challenging professional assignments.
- A body designed to heighten ease of operation, moisture and dust resistance, and overall durability
The size, layout and operation of the buttons, controls and functions have all been assigned for optimal operation and feedback – minimizing the need to remove the eye from the viewfinder. This combines with a lightweight, yet highly durable precision magnesium alloy body to offer reliable performance under tough professional working conditions.
- The D2xs supports full integration into Nikon’s Creative Lighting System
When used in combination with SB-800, SB-600 or Wireless Close-Up Speedlight Systems, the D2xs supports the Nikon’s Creative Lighting System with high-precision flash photography using i-TTL flash control, unlimited creativity through Advanced Wireless Lighting, and functions such as FV Lock and Auto FP High-Speed Sync. With Speedlights such as the SB-80DX and SB-50DX mounted, the D2xs also supports D-TTL flash control.
- Compatible with an extensive selection of Nikkor lenses
In addition to the expanding line of DX Nikkor lenses designed specifically for Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras, photographers can choose from a comprehensive selection of world-renowned AF Nikkor lenses designed for use with Nikon 35mm and Nikon digital SLR cameras.
- Fast read/write speed for the memory card and a USB 2.0 interface for fast image transfer
The D2xs has fast read/write times and uses the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface fast image transfer from the camera.
- GPS support for the recording of location information with shooting data
With the optionally available GPS Adapter Cord MC-35, location information such as latitude, longitude, altitude and heading (direction) can be transferred from a GPS device and recorded with the shooting data for each image.
- Wireless support with the Wireless Transmitter WT-2/2A for direct image transfer to the D2xs via wireless LAN
The D2xs supports the new high-speed, IEEE802.11b/g compatible Wireless Transmitter WT-2/2A with enhanced image transfer protocols and increased security. The WT-2/2A additionally supports the new PTP/IP protocol. And when used with Camera Control Pro software, wireless camera control from a computer is also possible.
- Increased digital image enjoyment with Nikon’s PictureProject software, designed for use with the D2xs
PictureProject is an intuitive software application offering versatile functions for image transfer, image organization, simple image editing (NEF plug-in included), and print layout.
- Support for Nikon Capture NX: A software application with an array of tools to assist the photographer
Nikon Capture NX offers exciting potential for Nikon Electronic Format (NEF) files, as well as JPEG and TIFF images. Refined through revolutionary U-Point technology, it greatly simplifies the selection of objects, colors or areas – supporting highly accurate alterations to myriad image elements, while preserving the integrity of the original image data.
- Image Authentication to protect the integrity of valuable data
Available separately, Nikon’s new Image Authentication function offers image authentication for digital image files. Indication whether the actual image has been tampered with is provided as well as if any changes have beenmade to date and GPS information.
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Original Source Press Release:
NIKON® INTRODUCES THE D2xS™ PROFESSIONAL DIGITAL SLR CAMERA, DELIVERING PERFORMANCE ADVANCEMENTS AND ENHANCED FEATURES - 12.4-Megapixel D2XS Offers Unique Combination of Extraordinary Image Quality, High-Speed and High-Resolution in a Single Camera Body
- Internal and External Refinements Make D2XS a Commendable Successor to Nikon’s Flagship D2X Digital SLR Camera
MELVILLE, NY, JUNE 1, 2006 – Nikon® (www.nikondigital.com), the world leader in photography, today introduced the new D2XS™ professional digital SLR camera, incorporating an impressive range of refinements that improve overall camera performance and enhance the user experience. The D2XS shares many performance and design innovations with the current and highly successful D2X camera, including the 12.4 million pixel DX format CMOS image sensor that renders images with high resolution and sharp detail, necessary for demanding professional assignments. The D2XS also hosts a range of upgraded features that make operation significantly more responsive – including refined viewfinder performance that makes for easier composition when shooting in Nikon's exclusive High-Speed Crop mode, a new 2.5 inch LCD with a 170-degree wide viewing angle, individually calibrated at the factory to ensure consistent color fidelity, significantly increased battery life and a wide range of firmware enhancements. With its numerous refinements, the D2XS is truly equipped to meet the widely varied demands of today’s professional photographers who strive to create photographs that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Not only does the camera successfully combine high resolution, speed and quality, but it also incorporates exclusive technologies that enable unfettered creativity. Options such as the WT-2A Wi-Fi transmitter achieves full wireless remote camera control and transmission, while the revolutionary i-TTL Speedlight technology included in the D2XS ensures radical new possibilities in creative lighting. “ Increasingly, professional photographers have chosen the D2X as their primary workhorse camera due to its remarkable performance and versatility, making it Nikon’s best selling professional digital SLR camera. With the introduction of the D2XS, Nikon has built upon the proven performance of its predecessor and added new technologies and refined features that will offer professionals an enhanced overall experience,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products, Nikon Inc. “The D2XS is poised to become the next Nikon DSLR of choice among professional photographers.” Versatility Refined
Many of the capabilities that made the D2X such a success have been retained. The D2XS is capable of capturing 12.4 megapixel JPEG or RAW (NEF) images at a rate of up to 5 frames per second in continuous shooting mode, and maintains a rapid start-up time, the world's shortest shutter release time lag of just 37ms, as well as a viewfinder blackout time of just 105 milliseconds. The D2XS also inherits the popular High-Speed Crop mode that uses a specific central area of the sensor to capture 6.8 megapixel resolution images at an incredible rate of up to 8 frames per second. A newly developed viewfinder in the D2XS automatically superimposes a mask over the cropped area within the viewfinder while in the High-Speed Crop mode, for easier and more confident composition. The D2XS features Nikon's acclaimed Mutli-CAM2000 high-speed AF system, with eleven autofocus sensors – nine of which are cross-type and placed in the rule of thirds layout. The D2XS offers improved subject acquisition and tracking capabilities as well as a new option for controlling the duration of Lock-On™ focus tracking, making it easier to adjust for shooting different types of scenes and action. New Image Rendering and Menu Options
With a combination of powerful image-processing technologies and Nikon's exclusive 1,005 pixel 3D-Color Matrix Metering II, the D2XS makes it possible to capture beautiful 12.4-megapixel images that meet and exceed professional photographers’ needs for larger files that are rich in detail, color and smooth tonal range. The D2XS has also been refined so demanding photographers can take advantage of Nikon's 3D-Color Matrix Metering II even in the High-speed Crop mode. Professional photographers will appreciate the ability to select Adobe RGB in any of the three color modes – making it possible to work with a wider range of colors to match highly diverse assignments and workflow environments, while ideally complementing the NEF file. In-camera creative possibilities are extended even further through the addition of a new Black & White (sRGB) color mode. Photographers shooting in RAW (NEF) will have the ability to shoot in black and white and still retain the color information in the RAW image data, allowing them to easily reverse a black and white image to color using Nikon’s new Capture NX software. RAW and JPEG images taken using the D2XS can be trimmed within the camera to produce images of reduced display sizes ranging from 640 x 480 to 2,560 x 1,920 pixels. The resulting smaller files can help improve workflow efficiency by eliminating the time required to download and perform software editing within a computer. New ISO sensitivity options offer greater convenience to photographers who work under constantly changing lighting conditions such as weddings. A new Auto ISO feature allows photographers to maintain a specific shutter speed while letting the camera automatically select an appropriate ISO setting, within a predefined range of sensitivities, based on the existing lighting conditions. This feature helps achieve optimum exposure while freeing the photographer to concentrate on composition. ISO sensitivity can also be manually set between ISO-equivalent 100 and 800 in increments of 1/3 EV, or boosted using HI-0.3, HI-0.5, HI-0.7, HI-1 or HI-2 settings when high sensitivity is a priority. The 3 settings between 800 and HI-1 are newly added to give the D2XS finer control over sensitivity. Refined Ergonomics and Design
The D2XS body is consistent with the exterior styling of the D2-series, adopted from a design created by famed industrial designer, Giorgetto Giugiaro*. The body is proportionate and well balanced, with a well designed interface that is intuitive and seamless. The D2XS improves upon its predecessor’s energy efficient design, and when combined with the newly developed high-energy EN-EL4a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the camera boasts an unprecedented 3,800** shots per charge. Nikon's highly sophisticated, real-time battery Fuel Gauge system in the D2XS allows photographers to determine the precise level of remaining charge, number of shots taken per charge and the overall life of the battery – all at the touch of a button. A new 2.5-inch, 235,000 dot LCD monitor in the D2XS allows a 170-degree wide viewing angle, and is individually calibrated at the factory to ensure consistent color fidelity. The D2XS also features a new color scheme for menu displays. Expanded Software Options
The D2XS features a unique Image Authentication feature that, when used with Nikon’s new Image Authentication Software, marks the authentication of an image captured by the camera and can determine whether or not it has been altered since capture. Image data is a critical link in the “chain of evidence” for verifying image authenticity, and D2XS’s hardware and software-based image authentication solution allows easy, secure authentication of images for a wide range of requirements. The software enables verification of JPEGS, TIFF and NEF (RAW) images taken with the Nikon D2XS. A new remote control software called Camera Control Pro is also available for the D2XS, enabling unprecedented remote control operation of many camera functions from a personal computer. Camera Control Pro software is the next generation of camera control software, previously bundled with Nikon’s Capture 4 software, and features substantial advanced features that offer limitless creativity to photographers who need to control their camera remotely. Camera Control Pro can control the D2XS remotely tethering a high-speed USB cable or optional WT-2a wireless transmitter. The D2XS is also compatible with Nikon’s soon-to-be-released Capture NX™ software – a highly versatile yet elegantly simple photo editing solution that provides easy, yet powerful and visually intuitive image-editing and enhancement tools. With Capture NX, photographers will be able to tap into the full potential of D2XS’s RAW (NEF) files, while also apply powerful photo image processing and editing tools to JPEG and TIFF files. The D2XS will be available from Nikon authorized retailers in late June for an estimated street price of $4699.95***. For more information, please visit www.nikondigital.com About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image™. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes the Nikon Total Imaging System of consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; COOLSCAN® digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. At the heart of every Nikon camera is Nikon’s Exclusive Feature System, making it easy for anyone to take amazing digital pictures. Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative™, the company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events and workshops. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities. *GIUGIARO
** Based on Nikon test conditions
***Estimated selling prices listed are only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time. |
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