Oregon Scientific launches high-def action camera

Go to:
Previous Item	Current News	Next Item

The shockproof, waterproof Oregon Scientific ATC9K records HD video and five megapixel stills, and can record geolocation data with an optional accessory. Photo provided by Integrated Display Technology Ltd.

Oregon Scientific launches high-def action camera
By Mike Tomkins
(Wednesday, August 4, 2010 - 19:43 EDT)

Hong Kong-based Integrated Display Technology Ltd. has launched a new high definition video / still camera aimed at sporty types, which will be available under its Oregon Scientific brand name.

The Oregon Scientific ATC9K All-Terrain Video Camera has a five megapixel 1/3.2-inch CMOS image sensor, and has a fixed focus, fixed focal length lens with an F3.2 aperture, and while no focal lengths are stated in the specs, the field of view is said to be 130°. The ACT9K outputs three or five megapixel still images, plus 30 frames per second video at up to 1080p (1,920 x 1,080 pixel) resolution, or 60 frames per second video at up to 720p (1,280 x 720 pixels). Videos are saved as H.264 QuickTime .MOV files, with a maximum bit rate of 12Mbit/s, and monaural 48Khz (max.) ADPCM audio from a built-in microphone with auto gain control. Two large yellow buttons on top of the lens barrel act as separate still image and video-mode shutter release buttons. Images or videos are framed and reviewed on a rather small 1.5-inch TFT LCD display, and the ATC9K also includes a built-in speaker.

The ATC9K is said to be waterproof to a depth of 65 feet (20 meters) underwater, shock resistant, and includes an accessory grip for mounting on helmets using either included silicon rubber or velcro straps, as well as on bicycle handlebars with a third included grip. Three further optionally available grips allow mounting on goggles, motorbike handlebars, or a suction cup. A quick release base attaches to the camera, and allows it to be switched between grips with a minimum of fuss, as well as featuring a standard tripod mount in the base.

A built in G-sensor couples with an optional proprietary GPS plugin addon that can be inserted in the camera directly above its 1050mAh lithium ion battery bay, and together allow videos and still images to be tagged with location, altitude, distance traveled, speed, and acceleration information. An included infrared remote control also provides both shutter buttons, allowing capture to be initiated remotely. Battery charging is via USB 2.0 (type unspecified) or an optional battery charger, and charge time is said to be two hours to 80% capacity using either method, and battery life is rated at 1.5 hours of continuous video. The camera can't be used during charging, however. As well as the USB data connectivity, there's also an HDMI connection. Images and movies are stored on MicroSD or MicroSDHC cards.

Exposure control is limited solely to fully automatic operation, with metering described as "scene average", and a five / ten second self timer available. Five white balance modes are available, including four presets. Recording modes include Vivid, Negative, B&W, Sepia, and Art.

The Oregon Scientific ATC9K is priced at $300, and available immediately.

The shockproof, waterproof Oregon Scientific ATC9K records HD video and five megapixel stills, and can record geolocation data with an optional accessory.
Photo provided by Integrated Display Technology Ltd.

Original Source Press Release:

Outdoor Enthusiasts Get Extreme With Oregon Scientific's New HD ATC9K All-Terrain Video Camera

Upload Videos from the Slopes, Waves, Road, or Trails to Facebook for a Chance to Win

TUALATIN, Ore., July 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Camcorders and camera phones step aside, because there is a new way to capture video – in high-definition! – even when scuba diving or jumping out of a plane 12,500 feet above the earth's surface. Oregon Scientific, a leading designer and worldwide marketer of personal electronics, today announced the launch of its highly anticipated ATC9K All-Terrain Video Camera, the next generation of the award-winning ATC line of action cameras. This easy-to-use, waterproof and shock-resistant camera can be strapped to a helmet, handlebars, surfboard, or snowboard, so it can follow athletes places they wouldn't dare bring a normal camera – and shoots in high-definition. Beginning today, extreme sport enthusiasts can share videos of their own outdoor adventures on Facebook for a chance to win a Grand Prize Package valued at $750.

The trouble with capturing extreme sports on video is that most cameras can't handle the dirt, grime, or water – and holding the camera steady is an even bigger challenge. The compact ATC9K, however, features a built-in G-sensor that measures the force of gravity during acceleration, deceleration and hang time, allowing users to record and review every detail of their performance. A laser pointer on the camera also helps users line up the camera, so they never miss a moment of the action. Designed for the rugged adventure, the ATC9K does not sacrifice function over form – it features full 1080p professional quality HD video, shoots up to 60 frames per second, has 130 degree wide field of view, captures 5-megapixels photos, and has a built-in color LCD display that allows users to preview and play back videos.

Through September 30th, ATC fans can get in on the action by uploading their own videos to Facebook and sharing the mud, sweat, and glory of their own outdoor conquests. From dirt-biking to sea kayaking, the ATC9K can capture it all – even up to 65 feet under water. Video submissions that meet contest terms and conditions will be narrowed down to the top five videos. The winning videos will be selected by a panel of judges and prize packages include one Grand Prize package valued at $750 and one Runner-up prize package valued at $350.

The ATC9K is also compatible with a unique GPS plug-in (sold separately with availability in October) that enables PC-users to map their location, speed and distance travelled on their computer during playback using Google Maps or Google Earth. While watching the video clip playback on a computer, users can view corresponding location, acceleration and altitude displayed on the map. Outdoor enthusiasts, trainers, and sports lovers alike can view or edit footage on single screen with this useful tool and keep track of each wilderness trail, road race, or coastline.

The ATC9K All-Terrain Video Camera is currently available for the suggested retail price of $299.99 at www2.oregonscientific.com and includes a remote control, a USB cable for connecting to a PC or Mac, and an HDMI cable for HD playback on a TV. A Velcro® strap, handle bar, helmet grip, and silicon strap mounting accessories are also included.

For more information about Oregon Scientific, visit http://www2.oregonscientific.com/.

About Oregon Scientific
Founded in 1989, Oregon Scientific is headquartered in Tualatin; a quaint suburb of beautiful Portland, Oregon. Oregon Scientific offers six families of products, ranging from Youth & Learning to Sports & Fitness. Built from its hallmark of timing and weather devices, Oregon Scientific is expanding to meet the diverse needs of its customers to enhance the way we live, work and play. Consider Oregon Scientific's products to be Innovating the Everyday.

Oregon Scientific is a division of one of the world's premier electronics manufacturers, Integrated Display Technology, Ltd. (IDT), based in Hong Kong. IDT was founded in 1977 and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange as IDT Technology and on the Singapore Exchange as I-Com.

Go to:
Previous Item	Current News	Next Item