USB Interface and Comprehensive Software Bundle for Macintosh and PC Computers Make Scanning Fast and Easy

LAKE SUCCESS, NEW YORK, August 17, 2001 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon, Inc. (NYSE: CAJ), is once again providing consumers with greater ease of use with the introduction of a new, high-speed desktop film scanner for use with 35mm and Advanced Photo System films. The new scanner, which incorporates a USB interface for easy connection to a PC, helps "bridge the gap" between analog and digital imaging by providing a means of downloading conventional photographs into a computer for the purposes of creating prints via computer output devices, email and the creation of personal Web sites. The new CanoScan FS2720U will be available at authorized Canon dealers nationwide in September at a suggested list price of $599.

The CanoScan FS2720U offers several advanced features including a maximum scanning speed of 13 / 10 seconds per frame (35mm / APS) , 2,720 dots-per-inch (dpi) optical resolution, 12-bit RGB input and output, and the ability to accept slides or negatives, color or black-and-white in either the 35mm or APS formats. A comprehensive software package included with the CanoScan FS2720U make downloading images fast and simple. Software packaged with the scanner includes Adobe Photoshop 5.0 LE, CanoCraft FSU and CanoCraft FSU Copy for Windows 98/Me/2000, and Plug-in Module FSU for G3 and G4 Power Macintosh computers with built-in USB ports.

"The age of computers and digital technology has narrowed the chasm between analog and digital imaging," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, vice president and general manager, Photographic Products Group. Canon U.S.A., Inc. "Canon's heritage and reputation as an innovator in imaging technology crosses both areas and provides consumers with the tools they need to easily and creatively make the transition from analog to digital. The new CanoScan FS2720U is an excellent example of how Canon is synergistically approaching the marketplace and how consumers can benefit from this approach."

The CanoScan FS2720U's combination of high scanning resolution and natural color reproduction meet the strictest demands of photography enthusiasts and SOHO (small office/home office) users- two of the major categories of film scanner customers. Content creators for print, Web and multimedia will be more than satisfied by the FS2720U's top scanning speed, which is faster than other manufacturers' models of comparable quality.

The CanoScan FS2720U provides 36-bit scanning capability which supports recognition of more than 68 billion different colors, as well as a broad dynamic range of 3.2 density units. The result is extremely accurate color rendition compared to the original film while retaining subtle details in the highlight and shadow areas of the scanned image.

The CanoScan FS2720U is fully compatible with most personal computers supporting Windows 98, Me or 2000, or Mac OS 8.6 through 9.1. A comprehensive software bundle includes Adobe Photoshop 5.0 LE for Windows and Mac, CanoCraft FSU and CanoCraft FSU Copy for Windows 98/Me/2000, and Plug-in Module FSU for G3 and G4 Power Macintosh computers with built-in USB ports.

Windows users can create quality images for immediate use with CanoCraft FSU. With popular TWAIN-compliant image editors like Adobe Photoshop or Photoshop LE, CanoCraft FSU allows the user to access the scanner directly from that application and perform basic image-editing functions such as setting color balance, tone curve, highlights, shadows and contrast. CanoCraft FSU can also be run as an independent application with basic image-editing and printing capability.

The Canon Plug-in Module FSU brings Macintosh users quick and easy control over basic scanning parameters and color adjustments. Among the tools included are focus and exposure control, zoom in/out, and gradation settings such as tone balance, gamma curve, and threshold. The Canon Plug-in Module FS works on Mac OS 8.6 through 9.1.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon, Inc., provides professional and consumer imaging solutions that give people the Know How to access the latest technology. The company's comprehensive product line includes networked multifunction devices; digital and analog copiers (color and black and white); printers, scanners, image filing systems, and facsimile machines; camcorders, cameras and lenses; and semiconductor, broadcast and medical equipment. Canon employs 12,000 people at more than 30 facilities throughout North, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

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