"We are pleased to have been selected to provide our advanced digital image-processor chip to Polaroid for the new PDC 2300Z," said Barbara Matthews, marketing director for Conexant's Personal Imaging Division. "Our Raptor II solution will enable Polaroid to provide its customers with a wide range of products that are feature-rich and very user-friendly."

"The QV3EX is a total package; 3.3-megapixel camera, rechargeable battery, AC power supply and one of the highest capacity mobile storage devices available today. It is an easy to use camera with a fully automatic point-n-shoot mode as well as an aperture priority mode, a movie mode and several programmed scene modes. If you can live with the limitations of not having an optical zoom then this may just be the camera for you. If you need a zoom lens or a camera with more manual features then look at one of the other 3mpixel cameras."

Saturday, January 27, 2001

"This is one "healthy" battery pack to be sure! I've tested quite a few of them and the Dual-Force Pro easily gives you two to three times the run power. I took a fully charged pack and plugged it into a Casio QV-2000UX with a Microdrive and ran it with the 2-inch color LCD on the whole time. I snapped a flash picture on the average of once a minute and it ran for two hours and fifteen minutes before the first side of the pack gave out. There was still the other side left to go which is exactly the same power capacity so that means it would have lasted for better than four hours."

Friday, January 26, 2001

Thursday, January 25, 2001

"Olympus has cranked out yet another excellent camera. Nice to see that everyone is not abandoning the two megapixel cameras but actually improving them."

Wednesday, January 24, 2001

• Simplifier One
• Edge Detect B&W
• Edge Detect Colour
• Emboss
• Radial Blur
• Radial Simplifier

• Simplifier Two
• Blur
• Blur More
• Radial Screen
• Spread Black
• Spread White
• Unsharp Mask

Tuesday, January 23, 2001

Monday, January 22, 2001

	serial350.zip	32-bit RS-232C TWAIN driver for Powershot Pro90 IS, G1, S20, S10, Pro70, A50, A5 Zoom, and A5. Card support only for EOS D30 and PowerShotS100, 350, and 600/600N. Compatible with Windows® 95/98/98SE/NT 4.0*/2000/ME. (*SP3 or higher). (3.4 MB)
	usb350.zip	USB TWAIN driver for EOS D30 and PowerShot Pro90 IS, G1, S100, S20, S10. Card support only for PowerShot Pro70, A50, A5 Zoom, A5, 350, and 600/600N. Compatible with Windows 98/98SE/2000/ME. (2.8 MB)
	mac350.sea	Photoshop-compatible plug-in module for EOS D30 and PowerShot Pro90 IS, G1, S100, S20, S10, Pro70, A50, A5 Zoom, and A5. Card support only for PowerShot 350 and 600/600N. Compatible with Mac OS 7.5.3 or higher, QuickTime 2.1 or higher. (2.2 MB)

It looks like this is a general upgrade to their driver software, covering essentially all their cameras to date. No mention is made of any new features, but we note that the drivers support both Windows 2000 and Windows ME. Windows ME at least seems to be posing a problem for many digicam manufacturers, given the level of email we've been receiving on the issue. Thus, welcome news that Canon's new drivers provide ME support.

(By the way, there appears to be a minor table bug on the link below, that prevents Netscape/Mac from rendering the page properly. If you see a blank page, try Internet Explorer.)
Source: Canon software download site

"Nothing Digital Lasts Forever"
By David Etchells, The Imaging Resource
(Monday, January 22, 2001 - 12:33 EST)

Thanks to IR reader "Digital Don" for pointing this one out: The Chicago Sun-Times has an article on their website discussing the longevity of digitally-archived images that could be eye-opening for some folks. If you're thinking that the CDs you're burning your images onto will last the ages, you may need to think again. The even larger problem of file format/media obsolescence is only touched on briefly by the article though: While a gold-coated CD may last 25 years, how likely is it that your PC (or your grandchildren's) will still be able to read those 2001-vintage CDs that long from now? As a measure of the pace of change, consider that twenty-five years ago, "personal computers" didn't even exist. When was the last time you had a computer that could read a 5" floppy? If you're planning for long-term archiving, you'd better also have a plan for migrating your data to newer forms of storage as you go along! Meanwhile, check out the article for some useful info on how long you can expect various forms of storage to last.
Source: Chicago Sun-Times digital archiving article

Steve Posts "First Look" and Full Reviews!
By David Etchells, The Imaging Resource
(Monday, January 22, 2001 - 12:23 EST)

Our friend Steve Sanders over at Steve's Digicams has posted a couple of new "First Looks" at the Canon Pro90 IS camera and Olympus P-200 portable photo printer. The Pro90 review is only first looks, so no detailed conclusions yet, but the P-200 review is the full product. More great work, Steve! (We have a Pro90IS in-house also, should be having a review posted on it shortly.)
Source: Steve's Digicams

Friday, January 19, 2001

"The ScanMaker 4600 combined with our digital camera is exactly what many people have been requesting, which is full Internet imaging capabilities," said Johnathan Gerber, product specialist at Microtek. "It allows users to scan paper photographs and turn them into digital images for websites, on-line photo albums and email attachments, as well as for home projects and crafts. In addition, the hybrid MN100 also serves as a PC camera, providing the ability to communicate face-to-face in real time or to snap digital images to share with family and friends."

Thursday, January 18, 2001

"Carolyn has made many important contributions throughout her distinguished 24-year career at HP, helping to establish the company as a pre-eminent provider of imaging and printing solutions for the home and business," said Carly Fiorina, HP chairman, president and chief executive officer. "As good leaders do, she has groomed a deep bench of senior managers who can confidently fuel HP's next phase of growth. VJ has a keen understanding of the imaging and printing business, having led our entry into the profitable, high growth Inkjet and digital imaging markets."

"We are very honored by EDN's decision to include our chip set in their list of the 100 hot products of 2000," stated Joe Raffa, CEO of NuCORE Technology. "We are excited about the work we're doing with camera manufacturers to introduce cameras with our technology in 2001."

"Having one camera that can serve both functions has been regarded as the 'holy grail' of digital photography," stated NuCORE CEO Joe Raffa. "It's what digital camera makers have been trying to build, unsuccessfully. Either they build a still camera that takes a few seconds of low-resolution motion, or a motion camera that takes poor quality stills that are unsuitable for photo printing. No other chip maker has been able to give them a solution that can do both, until now."

"The Olympus Camedia E-10 will without a doubt fulfil the demands of the semi-professionals, yes, and even the professionals. For about 2,250 EUR the camera offers almost everything that one could hope for in this price class, except the removable lens. E-10's fixed lens covers a focal range that is especially interesting for portrait and studio photographers (still life, pack-shots). For sport, news, and action photography the E-10 is not as suitable, even with the optional available tele converters. The E-10 takes too long to turn on and display images for these fields of photography.

But the E-10 is not exactly cheap ... at a price of 2,250 EUR, and fully equipped with accessories the price can easily be doubled. Then it is hard to overlook little (and big) flaws, which one might do with a consumer digital camera that cost half the price."

Tuesday, January 16, 2001

"Without a doubt the E-10 offers excellent value for money. Even with it's US$1,950 list price it's still a good US$1,500 cheaper than it's nearest "professional" rivals, yet it steps up and takes them on for overall image quality, build and features. The E-10 looks and feels like a professional tool, to a certain degree it also performs as one, probably only let down by it's slow "digital side", the processing, buffering and writing of images.

The camera isn't without a few problems but none of these are great cause for concern, nor reasons not to go for the E-10, my only current niggle is the experience of other E-10 buyers who have had stuck pixel and other QC problems (some are even on their second or third E-10 - which is why I could only give the camera a 9 for value for money, it was certainly getting close to a 10).

If some of the speed issues and the lack of an interchangeable lens aren't big issues to you and you don't already own bags of 'one brand' equipment then the E-10 should certainly be near the top of your list. Value for money? You bet."

"These printers basically give consumers everything they could ask for and more in affordable all-purpose printers," said Andreas Goehring, product manager, consumer ink jet printers, Epson. "They provide outstanding photographic images, sharp text documents, quiet operation for less distraction, they're easy to use and feature attractive designs that would look cool in anybody's home or office."

Monday, January 15, 2001

"Digital camera usage is the driving force in the Flash Memory Card market," said Ronan Ryan, Verbatim Director of Business Development. "Like the CD-Recorder, the digital camera is a true convergence product, uniting the Consumer Electronics and PC data storage businesses. Digital camera prices are coming down, making their benefits easier to justify, but many of today's digital cameras require Megabytes of removable storage for each image in the highest resolution mode. We're committed to providing these users and other portable digital appliance users with a low-cost way to expand their storage capacity and their enjoyment of these devices."

• *NEW* Firewire support for direct tethered shooting to your power Mac form the D1.
• *NEW* File-management functions in the browser, copy/move/delete/batch. From menu, or right click.
• *NEW* Improved interpolation method for better quality (less fringing, better color)
• Fixed clipping in browser window and made panes resizable.
• Fixed numerous crashes and problems with noise removal with previews.
• Fixed problems with filenames containing more than one period.
• Fixed problem with curves points not dragging.
• Fixed crashes and bad previews in curves.
• Fixed many many memory leaks specific to the Mac version.
• Fixed Colorspace problem with saving 8-bit tiffs.
• Fixed problems leading to occasional inconsistent options.
• Fixed problem with rotated previews.
• Fixed problems with batches including crashes.
• Fixed incorrect file types on Jpegs. (Were labeled as .tifs)
• Fixed temporary files being left on desktop.

"From the beginning this printer was fun to use and after the profiling even more so. Highly recommended."

Sunday, January 14, 2001

Saturday, January 13, 2001

Friday, January 12, 2001

Thursday, January 11, 2001

"DuoScan has been the choice of photographers and designers because of its exceptional quality capabilities," said Per Säve, vice president, Agfa Consumer Digital Imaging. "With the DuoScan f40 we are bringing entry-level and home office users many of the same features enjoyed by experienced professionals. It comes to them in a package that is convenient and easy to use. And by providing both a FireWire and USB interface, they also enjoy fast plug-and-play data transmission whether they use a Mac or a PC."

Agfa DUOSCAN f40
General
Model Number:	DUOSCAN f40
Retail Price:	$999
Date Available:	February 2001
Scanning Hardware
Media Type:	A4 / legal reflective media, transparencies up to 8 x 10 inches
Reading Resolution:	1200 x 2400 dpi optical resolution
Film adapter:	35mm framed (glassless) 35mm film strip (glassless) 6 x 9 cm (glassless) 4 x 5 inch (glassless) Flexible transparency frames for use with separate slide-in glass plate
Scanning area:	Separate scanning beds for reflective and transparent media: Reflective: 216 x 356 mm (8.5 x 14 inch) Transparency: 203 x 254 mm (8 x 10 inch)
Scanning and Processing
Dynamic Range:	3.0 D
Output Data:	42-bit, 14-bits per color channel
Interpolation:	Up to 4800 x 4800 dpi interpolated using Agfa FotoLook software
Color Management:	Agfa ColorTune software. Allows use of generic or custom scanner profiles, includes IT8 color calibration chart and a range of ICC profiles for color matching
Data Transfer & Software
Scanning Software:	Agfa FotoLook 3.5 Agfa ColorTune Adobe Photoshop 5.0LE Iris ReadIris OCR
Interface:	USB and IEEE 1394 (FireWire)

Wednesday, January 10, 2001

"When we looked at the market we found there was no product available offering a high level of protection to valuable digital media cards," said Al Conte, director of product development at Microtech. "That's why we wanted to create these armored digital media carriers, so that accidents and malfunctioning airport x-ray machines cannot destroy irreplaceable vacation photos or important data stored on your digital media."

Tuesday, January 9, 2001

"There's no question that digital imaging is a growing photographic segment. But cost and some uncertainties about what equipment is needed have slowed many independent portrait and event photographers from entering the digital world," said John Hodgson, Marketing Manager, Kodak Professional. "We're removing those barriers by offering a range of reliable digital imaging solutions in pre-selected bundles so photographers can choose one that best fits their needs, expertise and budget."

Before - original image without ICE³


After - corrected image with ICE³

"Nikon’s new line of Coolscan products harness the most advanced imaging hardware and software technology available with features and benefits that far surpass competitor’s models," said Deborah Sauer, General Manager, Marketing, Consumer Digital Products for Nikon. "The Coolscan IV ED is designed for photo enthusiasts looking to bridge the gap from film to digital imaging, while the Super Coolscan 4000 ED and Super Coolscan 8000 ED are ideal for professional photographers, service bureaus, printing houses, and archivists requiring the best possible digital replication with high speed and high volume capabilities. What is unique about the new scanners is the combination of Nikon imaging technology, Nikon Scan 3.0 software with Digital ICE³ technology and the simplicity of Nikon’s ‘out of the box’ plug-and-play capability," Ms. Sauer added.

Nikon Coolscan IV ED
General
Model Number:	LS40 ED
Retail Price:	$895
Date Available:	March 2001
Reading System / Optics
Film Type:	35mm / Advanced Photo System Film (IX240), Slide glass for microscope (positive, negative, color or monochrome)
Reading Resolution:	2870 pixel monochrome linear CCD 2900 dpi optical resolution
Film adapter:	Slide Mount Adapter MA-20(S) Strip Film Adapter SA-21 (2 to 6 frames) Strip Film Holder FH-3 (1 to 6 frames) IX-240 Film Adapter IA-20(S) (15, 25, 40 frames, optional) Medical Slide Holder FH-G1 (for slide glass, optional)
Scanning area:	25.1 x 38mm (2,870 x 4,332 pixels)
Effective scanning area:	SA-21: 23.3 x 36.0mm (2,657 x 4,104 pixels) MA-20(S): 25.1 x 36.8mm (2,870 x 4,203 pixels) FH-3: 24.0 x 36.0mm (2,736 x 4,104 pixels) IA-20(S): 16.1 x 26.9mm (1,836 x 3,067 pixels) FH-G1: 22.9 x 35.0mm (2,610 x 3,989 pixels) Actual effective size depends on slide mount aperture size
Illumination method:	R, G, B and D-LED Array
Color Separation:	RGB line sequential
Imaging Optics:	Scanner Nikkor ED glass lens (7 elements in 4 groups including 3 ED glass elements)
Focusing:	Autofocus and Manual Focus
Scanning / Signal Processing
Scan Time:	Approx. 42 seconds at 2900 dpi (35mm), 8-bit output (typical scan time with display, Windows, CMS off)
Optical Density:	3.6 dynamic range
Thumbnail Scanning and Batch Scanning:	35mm (135) strip film: 2 to 6 frames IX240 film cartridge: 15, 25, 40 frames
A/D Conversion:	12-bits
Output Data:	16-bits, 8-bits per color channel (user selectable)
Digital ICE3:	Digital ICE - automatic removal of surface defects Digital ROC - Automatic restoration of lost color values and exposure correction Digital GEM - Automatic removal of film grain in scanned images
Color Management System:	Built-in; uses standard ICC profiles to color match across input devices. Apple ColorSync and Microsoft ICM compatible
Data Transfer
Panel Indicators:	READY, BUSY and ERROR status indicated by front LED
Scanning Software:	Nikon Scan 3.0
Interface:	USB 1.1
Firmware:	User downloadable from www.nikontechusa.com
Platforms
Operating Systems:	MacOS 8.6 or later, Windows 98 Second Edition, Windows Me and Windows 2000
Operating Conditions
Power Requirements:	100-240VAC, 0.3-0.2A, 50/60Hz
Environmental:	Temperature: 50-95 °F (10-35 °C) Relative Humidity: 20-60% (non-condensing)
Dimensions (WxHxD):	3.7 x 6.6 x 12.4 in. (93 x 169 x 315mm)
Weight (approx.):	6.6 lbs (3kg)
Product Number
9236	Includes USB cable, Altamira Genuine Fractals 2.0 FULL version, Adobe Photoshop 5.0 LE, Nikon Scan 3.0 Driver software, Slide Mount Adapter MA-20(S), Strip Film Adapter SA-21, Strip Film Holder FH-3, AC Power cord, software and user manual.

Nikon Super Coolscan 4000 ED
General
Model Number:	LS4000 ED
Retail Price:	$1695
Date Available:	March 2001
Reading System / Optics
Film Type:	35mm / Advanced Photo System Film (IX240), Slide glass for microscope (positive, negative, color or monochrome)
Reading Resolution:	3946 pixel monochrome linear CCD 4000 dpi optical resolution
Film adapter:	Slide Mount Adapter MA-20(S) Strip Film Adapter SA-21 (2 to 6 frames) Strip Film Holder FH-3 (1 to 6 frames) IX-240 Film Adapter IA-20(S) (15, 25, 40 frames, optional) Roll Film Adapter SA-30 (2 to 40 frames, optional) Slide Feeder SF-200(S) (1 to 50 frames, optional) Medical Slide Holder FH-G1 (for slide glass, optional)
Scanning area:	25.1 x 38mm (3,946 x 5,959 pixels)
Effective scanning area:	SA-21: 23.3 x 36.0mm (3,654 x 5,646 pixels) MA-20(S): 25.1 x 36.8mm (3,946 x 5,782 pixels) FH-3: 24.0 x 36.0mm (3,762 x 5,646 pixels) IA-20(S): 16.1 x 26.9mm (2,525 x 4,219 pixels) SA-30: 23.3 x 36.0mm (3,654 x 5,646 pixels) SF-200: 25.1 x 36.8mm (3,946 x 5,782 pixels) FH-G1: 22.9 x 35.0mm (3,591 x 5,488 pixels) Actual effective size depends on slide mount aperture size
Illumination method:	R, G, B and D-LED Array
Color Separation:	RGB line sequential
Imaging Optics:	Scanner Nikkor ED glass lens (7 elements in 4 groups including 3 ED glass elements)
Focusing:	Autofocus and Manual Focus
Scanning / Signal Processing
Scan Time:	Approx. 38 seconds at 4000 dpi (35mm), 16-bit output (typical scan time with display, Windows, CMS off)
Optical Density:	4.2 dynamic range
Thumbnail Scanning and Batch Scanning:	35mm (135) strip film: 2 to 6 frames IX240 film cartridge: 15, 25, 40 frames 35mm (135) strip film (with SA-30): 2 to 40 frames 35mm (135) mount film (with SF-200(S)): 1 to 50 frames
A/D Conversion:	14-bits
Output Data:	16-bits, 8-bits per color channel (user selectable)
Digital ICE3:	Digital ICE - automatic removal of surface defects Digital ROC - Automatic restoration of lost color values and exposure correction Digital GEM - Automatic removal of film grain in scanned images
Multi-sample scanning:	2, 4, 8, 16 times (user selectable) for reduced noise
Color Management System:	Built-in; uses standard ICC profiles to color match across input devices. Apple ColorSync and Microsoft ICM compatible
Data Transfer
Panel Indicators:	READY, BUSY and ERROR status indicated by front LED
Scanning Software:	Nikon Scan 3.0
Interface:	IEEE 1394 (OHCI compliant)
Firmware:	User downloadable from www.nikontechusa.com
Platforms
Operating Systems:	MacOS 8.6 or later, Windows 98 Second Edition, Windows Me and Windows 2000
Operating Conditions
Power Requirements:	100-240VAC, 0.3-0.2A, 50/60Hz
Environmental:	Temperature: 50-95 °F (10-35 °C) Relative Humidity: 20-60% (non-condensing)
Dimensions (WxHxD):	3.7 x 6.6 x 12.4 in. (93 x 169 x 315mm)
Weight (approx.):	6.6 lbs (3kg)
Product Number
9282	Includes IEEE 1394 cable (6 pin, 6 pin), IEEE 1394 Interface card (works with Windows and Macintosh G3 or later computers), Altamira Genuine Fractals 2.0 FULL version, Nikon Scan 3.0 Driver software, Slide Mount Adapter MA-20(S), Strip Film Adapter SA-21, Strip Film Holder FH-3, AC Power cord, software manual, and user manual.

Nikon Super Coolscan 8000 ED
General
Model Number:	LS8000 ED
Retail Price:	$2995
Date Available:	April 2001
Reading System / Optics
Film Type:	Medium Format (120/220), 35mm (135), 35mm panorama, 16mm, Electron Microscope, Slide glass for microscope
Reading Resolution:	4000 dpi optical resolution
Film adapter:	35mm STRIP FILM HOLDER FH-835S 35mm MOUNTED FILM HOLDER FH-835M 120/220 STRIP FILM HOLDER FH-869S 120/220 MOUNTED FILM HOLDER FH-869M (optional) 120/220 STRIP FILM HOLDER WITH GLASS FH-869G (optional) 120/220 FILM ROTATED HOLDER WITH GLASS FH-869GR (optional) 16mm FILM HOLDER FH-816 (optional) MEDICAL SLIDE HOLDER FH-8G1 (optional)
Scanning area:	63.5 x 88mm (10,000 x 13,860 pixels)
Effective scanning area:	FH-835S: 37.5 x 25.6mm (5,905 x 4,032 pixels) FH-835M: 25.4 x 37.5mm (4,000 x 5,904 pixels) FH-869S/FH-869G: 6 x 4.5: 56.9 x 42.5mm (8,964 x 6,696 pixels) 6 x 6: 56.9 x 56.9mm (8,964 x 8,964 pixels) 6 x 7: 56.9 x 70.0mm (8,964 x 11,016 pixels) 6 x 8: 56.9 x 77.5mm (8,964 x 12,204 pixels) 6 x 9: 56.9 x 83.7mm (8,964 x 13,176 pixels) Electron Microscope: 56.9 x 83.7mm (8,964 x 13,176 pixels) FH-869GR: 6 x 4.5: 60.3 x 45.0mm (9,496 x 7,092 pixels) 6 x 6: 61.6 x 61.7mm (9,700 x 9,720 pixels) 6 x 7: 62.8 x 74.5mm (9,889 x 11,736 pixels) 6 x 8: 63.4 x 80.0mm (9,984 x 12,600 pixels) 6 x 9: 63.5 x 88.0mm (10,000 x 13,860 pixels) Electron Microscope: 56.9 x 83.7mm (8,964 x 13,176 pixels) 35mm panoramic 24 x 58: 31.0 x 61.7mm (4,876 x 9,720 pixels) 35mm panoramic 24 x 65: 31.6 x 68.8mm (4,972 x 10,836 pixels) FH-869M: 6 x 4.5, 6 x 6:56.9 x 56.9mm (8,964 x 8,964 pixels) 6 x 6, 6 x 7, 6 x 9: 56.9 x 83.7mm (8,964 x 13,176 pixels) FH-816: 15.0 x 21.5mm (2,362 x 3,384) FH-8G1:46.0 x 24.0mm (7,248 x 3,780)
Illumination method:	R, G, B and D-LED Array
Imaging Optics:	Scanner Nikkor ED glass lens (14 elements in 6 groups including 6 ED glass elements)
Focusing:	Autofocus and Manual Focus
Scanning / Signal Processing
Density Range:	4.2D
Thumbnail Scanning and Batch Scanning:	35mm strip film: 1 to 12 frames (2 strips) 35mm mount film: 1 to 5 frames 120/220 strip film (6 x 4.5 size): 1 to 4 frames 120/220 mount film: 1 to 2 frames 16mm film: 1 to 60 frames (3 strips)
A/D Conversion:	14-bits
Output Data:	16-bits, 8-bits per color channel (user selectable)
Digital ICE3:	Digital ICE, Digital ROC, Digital GEM
Multi-sample scanning:	2, 4, 8, 16 times (user selectable) for reduced noise
Color Management System:	Built-in
Data Transfer
Interface:	IEEE 1394
Operating Conditions
Power Requirements:	100-240VAC, 0.3-0.2A, 50/60Hz
Environmental:	Temperature: 10-35 °C (50-95 °F) Relative Humidity: 20-60% RH (non-condensing)
Dimensions (WxHxD):	245 x 200 x 485mm (9.6 x 7.9 x 19.1 in.)
Weight (approx.):	9kg (19.8lbs)
Others
Accessories included	35mm STRIP FILM HOLDER FH-835S, 35mm MOUNTED FILM HOLDER FH-835M, 120/220 STRIP FILM HOLDER FH-869S, IEEE 1394 board, IEEE 1394 cable (6 pin-6 pin), Nikon Scan 3 Driver Software, AC power cord, Manual

Monday, January 8, 2001

"Most CMOS imagers also boast low cost and a compact size, but SMaL's SCT-OOVC CMOS imager goes much further," said Charles G. Sodini, Ph.D., President, SMaL Camera Technologies. "Our unique imager is based on SMaL's proprietary brightness adaptive pixel. Coupled with our proprietary algorithms, the imager allows us to design cameras that adapt to a wide variety of lighting conditions. Simply put, this Autobrite technology lets you see what you want to see - by capturing the dark details of a scene while ensuring that the bright regions never saturate. In addition to this clear advantage, our VGA imager also has the industry's lowest power consumption (33mW at 60f/s)."

Harry S. Lee, Ph.D., Vice President, Technology, SMaL Camera Technologies, added, "Coupled with our imager design is an optics design that allows us to build an extremely thin camera. For example, we are featuring our CMOS imager in a 0.2" thin digital still camera, which we call the Ultra-Pocket camera. The amazingly compact size of this camera demonstrates how easily the technology could be re-packaged in PDAs, cellular phones, PC cameras, security systems, video cameras, toys, and other applications. Manufacturers of such products have been delighted to discover that the SCT-OOVC ensures them image quality at a low cost, without sacrificing the size and battery power requirements of their products."

"When people see and use the Ultra-Pocket, it is common for them to react with a 'Wow!' at least twice," said Keith Fife, Vice President, Engineering, SMaL Camera Technologies. "The first 'wow' is a reaction to the camera's ultra-thin size - literally the size of a credit card and only 0.2" (6 mm) thin. The second occurs when they see how the Autobrite technology clearly captures the dark details of a scene while ensuring that the bright regions never saturate."

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
SMaL Ultra-Pocket
General
Model Number:	Ultra-Pocket
Camera Format:	Ultra Compact
Retail Price:	Unknown
Date Available:	Unknown
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	0.33" 0.31 megapixel RGBG CMOS
Image Resolution:	640x480
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	35mm fixed focal length
Digital Zoom:	No
Auto Focus:	No (Fixed Focus)
Normal Focus Range:	91 cm to Infinity 37.3 in to Infinity
Aperture Range:	f/2.0 (fixed aperture)
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Real Image)
LCD Viewfinder:	No
Exposure
Shutter Speeds:	1/10 - 1/1000 second
Exposure Modes:	Auto
Flash
Internal Flash:	No
Ext Flash:	No
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	MultiMediaCard
Memory Included (MB):	8
More Information
Weight:	63 g 2.2 oz
Weight With Batteries?	Yes
Size:	86 x 54 x 6 mm 3.4 x 2.1 x 0.2 in
Other images

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
JVC GC-QX5HD
General
Model Number:	GC-QX5HD
Camera Format:	Compact
Retail Price:	$1299
Date Available:	2001-01-08
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	0.55" 3.34 megapixel RGBG CCD
Image Resolution:	2032x1536, 1024x768, 640x480
Movie Resolution:	160x120
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	37 - 86 mm (2.3x optical zoom)
Digital Zoom:	Yes (Up to 3.1x)
Auto Focus:	Yes
Manual Focus:	Yes
Normal Focus Range:	Unknown
Macro Focus Range:	Unknown
Aperture Range:	f/2.8 - f/11
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Real Image type)
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes (2.0 inch, 200000 pixel)
Exposure
ISO Settings:	80, 160, 320
White Balance Settings:	Unknown
Manual White Balance:	Yes
Shutter Speeds:	1/4 - 1/750 second
Exp Adj Range:	+/- 2.0 EV in 0.5 EV steps
Metering Modes:	Multi, Spot
Exposure Modes:	Auto, Aperture Priority, Manual
Self Timer (seconds):	1 or 8 sec
Flash
Internal Flash:	Yes
Flash Modes:	Auto, Red-eye reduction, Off
Flash Range Description:	Up to 2.5 meters
Ext Flash:	No
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	SmartMedia
Memory Included (MB):	8
File Formats:	TIFF, JPEG, JVC Proprietary Video
More Information
Remote Control:	No
Tripod Mount:	Yes (Plastic)
Weight:	290 g 10.1 oz
Weight With Batteries?	No
Size:	101 x 67 x 59 mm 4.0 x 2.6 x 2.3 in
Notes & Features:	Similar to GC-QX3HD (below) but adds a Film Copy Attachment to the bundle, as well as the following changes: DR Pro-Still mode takes two pictures, one bright and one dark, and merges the two, creating a final image claimed to have triple the dynamic range. 6 Megapixel Film Copy mode uses a movement of the optical refraction plate to shift the image 3.45 microns (1 pixel) upwards in between shots. Using this method, the light falls onto colors of different pixels in each shot, allowing less of the data to require interpolation. Every green pixel is recorded, not interpolated, whilst the red and blue data is doubled. A 3.34 megapixel 2032 x 1536 image which JVC notes offers color reproduction equivalent to over 6 megapixels is the result. Multiple Layer Collage mode allows a 'lumakey' type effect where a subject on a light background can be overlaid on another image in-camera.

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
JVC GC-QX3HD
General
Model Number:	GC-QX3HD
Camera Format:	Compact
Retail Price:	$1099
Date Available:	2001-01-08
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	0.55" 3.34 megapixel RGBG CCD
Image Resolution:	2032x1536, 1024x768, 640x480
Movie Resolution:	160x120
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	37 - 86 mm (2.3x optical zoom)
Digital Zoom:	Yes (Up to 3.1x)
Auto Focus:	Yes
Manual Focus:	Yes
Normal Focus Range:	Unknown
Macro Focus Range:	Unknown
Aperture Range:	f/2.8 - f/11
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Real Image type)
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes (2.0 inch, 200000 pixel)
Exposure
ISO Settings:	80, 160, 320
White Balance Settings:	Unknown
Manual White Balance:	Yes
Shutter Speeds:	1/4 - 1/750 second
Exp Adj Range:	+/- 2.0 EV in 0.5 EV steps
Metering Modes:	Multi, Spot
Exposure Modes:	Auto, Aperture Priority, Manual
Self Timer (seconds):	1 or 8 sec
Flash
Internal Flash:	Yes
Flash Modes:	Auto, Red-eye reduction, Off
Flash Range Description:	Up to 2.5 meters
Ext Flash:	No
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	SmartMedia
Memory Included (MB):	8
File Formats:	TIFF, JPEG, JVC Proprietary Video
More Information
Remote Control:	No
Tripod Mount:	Yes (Plastic)
Weight:	290 g 10.1 oz
Weight With Batteries?	No
Size:	101 x 67 x 59 mm 4.0 x 2.6 x 2.3 in
Notes & Features:	Bundled with Rechargeable Battery, AC Adapter/Battery Charger, 8MB SmartMedia Card, Hand Strap, USB Cable, CD-ROM, HDTV Output Cable and Video Cable. Has a 1080i HDTV output (1080 scanning line interlaced). NR Pro-Still (Noise Reduction) mode takes multiple exposures and uses the data to reduce random noise (JVC claims a 9db rduction). DCF and DPOF compliant. Black and White*, Sepia*, and Negi-Posi modes (picture is converted in playback). Cold-forged aluminum chassis with carbon-fiber reinforced polymer back. Video clips are 200KB or less, bundled proprietary software (220KB) required for playback. Bundled charger doubles as an AC adapter. LCD display has 30 frames per second refresh.

"Because our CMOS image sensor solution offers high quality and resolution and is cost effective, it clearly addresses the requirements of chip developers for the digital camera market," said Jim Ballingall, vice president of worldwide marketing at UMC. "Our solution is clearly unparalleled in the foundry space in its comparability to CCD, the key being exceptionally low dark current levels -as low as 65 pA/cm2 -which allow for high image quality regardless of light conditions. The transition from CCD to UMC's CMOS sensor process is further facilitated by the fact that changes in optics are not necessary due to the small pixel sizes that are enabled by the process. Particularly exciting is the fact that this complements our offerings in advanced logic, mixed-signal, and micro-display technologies so that customers can access UMC for a complete digital camera solution."

Sabrina Kemeny, CEO at Photobit Corporation said, "As a leading supplier of CMOS image sensors, we must keep up with the market's high demand for video imaging products by delivering the most leading-edge camera system on a chip. UMC's CMOS sensor process has by far exceeded our expectations for quantum efficiency and sensitivity. We look forward to continuing our long-term relationship with UMC as they continue to deliver the highly-reliable, excellent quality image sensor process technology we need for development of our camera-on-a-chip."

Dr. Derek Cheung, Rockwell's vice president of research and director of the Rockwell Science Center said, "We committed to UMC's 0.25-micron CMOS image sensor process technology for developing our CMOS imaging system-on-a-chip (i-SoC(TM)) for high performance video cameras, because it enables us to offer comparable resolution and image quality to incumbent CCDs with obvious cost advantages and an unprecedented set of embedded features. We look forward to migrating to UMC's 0.18-micron process soon and achieving even greater performance."

"Price-conscious digital camera consumers have been looking for an opportunity to move into megapixel cameras," said Tim Martin, Director of Marketing at Xirlink. "Our new XVP-299 platform allows our OEM partners to offer a value-priced megapixel camera with exceptional image quality and larger print capability. The XVP-299 is a fully-featured, high-quality camera with the industry's best price/performance ratio."

"Winning the Editor's Choice Award is extremely gratifying," said John Reimer, president and CEO of Lexar Media. "The editors at PC Photo clearly recognize the importance digital photographers place on using high speed, high capacity digital film. As a market leader, Lexar Media takes pride in providing the best products possible to help digital photographers maximize their digital photography experience."

"Since our customers have a broad range of imaging needs, we created PolaroidDigital.com so they can do more than just share their photos online," said Craig Armstrong, director, Worldwide Consumer Electronics, Polaroid Corporation. "The wonder of digital photography is its accessibility and innate ability to be transmitted through many channels. The Website allows our valued customers to have fun with their photographs, while educating them on how to further enhance their love of digital photography through sharing methods like digital picture frames and the Internet."

"We are quite pleased to work closely with Polaroid and to provide them with a turnkey online imaging network through our Internet Infrastructure Services," said Anna Jen, vice president of ArcSoft's Internet Services Division. "Powered by our PhotoIsland Network System, Polaroid will be able to offer a range of interactive, value-added services that builds site stickiness and loyalty with consumers."

• Share and Send - Log in to your free Polaroid Digital Account or Polaroid Digital Picture Frame Account to view, share and send your digital photos or electronic postcards.
• Get Creative - Utilize options like messages and music to personalize your photographs. And, through an online venture with Kazoo3D, Polaroid customers can add 3D images of cartoon characters and other graphics to their digital photos.
• Member Help - Get help installing and using Polaroid digital products including cameras and the Polaroid PhotoMAX Digital Picture Frame.
• Product Registration - Sign up for a free Polaroid Digital Account and register your Polaroid Digital Picture Frame or digital camera.
• Look, Learn and Buy - Find out what's new from Polaroid! Take a look at the latest Polaroid digital products and accessories.

"Polaroid's overarching vision has been to combine its rich heritage in instant imaging with the future of digital," explained Polaroid Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Gary T. DiCamillo. "We are delivering on this goal by focusing on innovative, customer-focused products that will build Polaroid's presence in the burgeoning digital imaging market. Polaroid is answering the question about the role of film in digital imaging with the launch of the P-500, which integrates instant film with digital images."DiCamillo added, "With the Polaroid Digital Picture Frame, Polaroid has ensured that anyone may have access to images via the Internet, without needing to use a personal computer. This is a crucial step in the evolution of information exchange via the Internet."

• P-500 Digital Photo Printer - Billed by Polaroid as "the first truly mobile photo printer". The P-500 allows photographers to print images without a computer. Compatible with CompactFlash or SmartMedia card (with included adapter), allows the user to choose an image or images to print, and push a button for full color prints in about 20 seconds. The P-500 is compatible with all Polaroid PhotoMAX digital cameras, as well as "a majority of other digital cameras currently on the market".
• PhotoMAX Digital Picture Frame - The Polaroid PhotoMAX Digital Picture Frame allows users to share their images with friends and family who do not have access to a personal computer. Photographers send their images through the Polaroid website, PolaroidDigital.com. The frame then receives digital images from the Internet and displays them in color on a 5x7-inch LCD screen. A phone line connection is needed for the picture frame.
• PhotoMAX MP3 Digital Camera - Allows users to listen to music and capture images in one device. The camera accepts MP3 music files and can take 640x480 resolution images.
• PDC 2300Z digital camera - The PDC 2300Z is Polaroid's first two-megapixel digital camera produced for the consumer market. Billed as "the most technologically advanced digital camera in the Polaroid PhotoMAX line", the camera has a 2.3 megapixel resolution and a 2.3X optical zoom lens. With a suggested list price of $399, Polaroid claims the PDC 2300Z costs less than comparable photo quality digital cameras.
• PolaroidDigital.com -- A Polaroid website that "provides practical information and fun features that help consumers facilitate sharing of digital photographs with friends and family". The site allows users to send personalized greetings, post photos to an auction site, and create a personalized online photo album accessible for selected others. Creating a Polaroid Digital account is free, and most of the site's services are free.

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
Polaroid PDC 2300Z
General
Model Number:	PDC 2300Z
Camera Format:	Compact
Retail Price:	$399
Date Available:	2001-01-07
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	2.3 megapixel
Image Resolution:	Unknown ("Six image resolution modes")
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	2.3x optical zoom
Digital Zoom:	Yes (2x)
Auto Focus:	Yes
Manual Focus:	Unknown
Normal Focus Range:	46 cm to Infinity 18.7 in to Infinity
Macro Focus Range:	38 - 46 cm 15.5 - 18.7 in
Aperture Range:	f/3.02 - f/13.45
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Real Image type)
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes (1.8 inch)
Flash
Internal Flash:	Yes
Flash Modes:	red-eye reduction
Flash Range Description:	1.6 to 10 feet (0.49 to 3.05 m)
Ext Flash:	No
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	Unknown ("removable memory card")
Memory Included (MB):	8
File Formats:	JPEG
More Information
Self Timer (seconds):	10
Notes & Features:	Bundled with Polaroid PhotoMAX Pro Software, 4 AA Batteries, USB cable, Serial cable, AC adapter, Wrist strap and camera case, Hardware/Software, User's Guide and Software Online Help. Has six (unspecified) image resolutions.

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
Polaroid PhotoMAX MP3
General
Model Number:	PhotoMAX MP3
Camera Format:	Compact
Retail Price:	Unknown
Date Available:	Unknown
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	Unknown (640 x 480 file size, may be interpolated)
Image Resolution:	640x480, 320x200
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	Fixed focal length (unspecified)
Digital Zoom:	Unknown
Auto Focus:	No (Fixed focus)
Normal Focus Range:	61 cm to Infinity 24.9 in to Infinity
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Real Image type)
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes (Size unknown)
Flash
Internal Flash:	Yes
Flash Range Description:	3 to 10 feet (0.91 to 3.05 m)
Ext Flash:	No
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	CompactFlash Type-I
Memory Included (MB):	16
File Formats:	JPEG
More Information
Self Timer (seconds):	Yes (length unknown)
Notes & Features:	Bundled with 16 MB CompactFlash card (stores music and photos), Earphones, 4 AA batteries, USB cable, Video cable, Wrist strap, Camera case with belt clip, Quickstart Guide, Quick reference card, Polaroid PhotoMAX Image Maker and Nullsoft Winamp MP3 player software.

Saturday, January 6, 2001

"The Pro90 is a very different beast [from the Pro70], we could have guessed ahead of time that it would have the 10x zoom lens announced earlier by Canon, the 2.6 megapixel resolution will probably be a surprise to many but in our real life use it made little difference day-to-day. Feature wise the Pro90 is as rich as the G1 on which its based, and we all know how popular the G1 has become. There are certainly gripes and things which need to be put right, but as a whole the Pro90 currently stands alone as the digital camera with the combination of a long zoom lens and 2.6 megapixels of resolution.

Anyone considering a 3 megapixel digital camera should seriously consider the Pro90, forget bolting aftermarket 3x lenses onto that fragile lens thread, this camera has everything you need in one package, that plus great image quality. Anyone considering the Sony DSC-F505V or Olympus C-2100UZ must now consider the excellent Canon Pro 90 IS. Kudos once more for Canon."

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
Canon PowerShot Pro90 IS
General
Model Number:	Pro90
Camera Format:	SLR
Retail Price:	Unknown
Date Available:	Unknown
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	0.55" 3.34 megapixel RGBG CCD (2.58 megapixel effective)
Image Resolution:	1856x1392, 1024x768, 640x480
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	37 - 370 mm (10x optical zoom)
Digital Zoom:	2x, 4x
Auto Focus:	Yes
Manual Focus:	Yes
Normal Focus Range:	10 cm to Infinity 4.1 in to Infinity
Macro Focus Range:	10cm - 10 cm 4.2 - 4.2 in
Aperture Range:	f/2.8 - f/8
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Eye level LCD)
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes (1.8 inch)
Exposure
ISO Settings:	50, 100, 200, 400
White Balance Settings:	Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Flash, Hold
Manual White Balance:	Yes
Shutter Speeds:	8 - 1/1000 second
Exp Adj Range:	+/- 2.0EV in 0.333EV steps
Metering Modes:	Center-weighted average metering, Spot metering
Exposure Modes:	Auto, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual
Self Timer (seconds):	10
Flash
Internal Flash:	Yes
Flash Modes:	Auto, Red-eye reduction auto, Red-eye reduction On, On or Off
Flash Range Description:	70 cm - 4.2 m (2.3 ft. - 13.8 ft.) wide, 1 m - 3.4 m (3.3 ft. - 11.2 ft.) tele at ISO100
Ext Flash:	Yes (Accessory shoe with sync terminals, intelligent with Speedlite 220EX, 380EX, 420EX and 550EX)
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	CompactFlash Type-I, CompactFlash Type II, MicroDrive
Memory Included (MB):	16
File Formats:	CCD-RAW, JPEG, AVI (QuickTime MotionJPEG)
More Information
Remote Control:	Yes (IR)
Tripod Mount:	Yes (Metal)
Weight:	680 g 23.8 oz
Weight With Batteries?	No
Size:	127 x 84 x 139 mm 5.0 x 3.3 x 5.5 in
Notes & Features:	Image sensor is 3.34 megapixel but masking due to lens/chassis/sensor combination limits effective sensor resolution to 2.58 megapixel. Lens has image stabilisation. Lens iris is used as mechanical shutter, meaning 1/1000 second shutter speed can only be used at F4 to F8. Auto ISO selects from either ISO 50 or ISO 100. Flash exposure compensation (+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV steps) is possible. 'Creativity' modes are Pan-focus, Portrait, Landscape, Night scene, Black & white, Stitch Assist and Movie. Serial connectivity requires optional serial cable. DCF and DPOF compliant. Can record audio (monaural) as a wave file.

Friday, January 5, 2001

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
Toshiba PDR-M65
General
Model Number:	PDR-M65
Camera Format:	Compact
Retail Price:	$599
Date Available:	2001-02-28
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	0.5" 3.34 megapixel RGBG CCD
Image Resolution:	2048x1536, 1024x768
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	38 - 114 mm (3x optical zoom)
Digital Zoom:	Unknown (2x playback zoom)
Auto Focus:	Yes
Manual Focus:	Unknown
Normal Focus Range:	10 cm to Infinity 4.0 in to Infinity
Macro Focus Range:	10cm - 10 cm 4.2 - 4.2 in
Aperture Range:	Unknown
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Real Image type)
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes (1.8 inch)
Flash
Internal Flash:	Yes
Flash Modes:	Automatic, red-eye reduction, forced-fill flash, slow synchro, force-off
Flash Range Description:	Up to 13 feet (4 meters)
Ext Flash:	No
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	SmartMedia
Memory Included (MB):	8
File Formats:	JPEG
More Information
Remote Control:	Unknown
Tripod Mount:	Unknown
Weight:	289 g 10.1 oz
Weight With Batteries?	No
Size:	121 x 75 x 61 mm 4.8 x 2.9 x 2.4 in
Notes & Features:	Compatible with SmartMedia up to 64MB. Has a diopter correction on the optical viewfinder. Bundled with 8MB SmartMedia card, USB cable, video-out cable, and neck strap.

"There is an increasing number of compact electronic devices, including the new Compaq iPaq Personal Audio Player PA-1, that rely on MMC cards because of their extremely small form factor and rugged design," said Laura Bonomo, Viking product manager. "According to Semico Research, MultiMediaCard unit shipments will continue to increase and will more than double in 2001. As a leading supplier of flash memory products, Viking is committed to supporting the memory needs of this mobile market."

• MMC16M - 16MB MultiMediaCard
• MMC32M - 32MB MultiMediaCard
• MMC64M - 64MB MultiMediaCard (pre-sale)

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
Olympus C-2040 Zoom
General
Model Number:	C-2040Z
Camera Format:	Compact
Retail Price:	$699
Date Available:	2001-01-31
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	0.5" 2.11 megapixel RGBG CCD
Image Resolution:	1600x1200, 1024x768, 640x480
Movie Resolution:	320x240, 160x120
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	40 - 120 mm (3.00x optical zoom)
Digital Zoom:	Yes (2.5x, 5x in VGA mode)
Auto Focus:	Yes (iESP TTL contrast detection)
Manual Focus:	Yes
Normal Focus Range:	8 cm to Infinity 3.2 in to Infinity
Macro Focus Range:	8 - 20 cm 3.2 - 8.3 in
Aperture Range:	f/1.8 - f/10
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Real Image type)
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes (1.8 inch, 114000 pixel)
Exposure
ISO Settings:	100
White Balance Settings:	daylight, overcast, tungsten light, fluorescent light
Manual White Balance:	Yes
Shutter Speeds:	16 - 1/800 second
Exp Adj Range:	+/- 2.0 EV in 0.33 EV steps
Metering Modes:	iESP Multi, Spot
Exposure Modes:	Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual
Self Timer (seconds):	12
Flash
Internal Flash:	Yes
Flash Modes:	Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Forced, Off, Slow 1&2, External
Flash Range Description:	3.1 inches to 18 feet (0.8 to 5.6 m)
Ext Flash:	Yes
Ext Flash Connection:	FL-40 external flash
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	SmartMedia
Memory Included (MB):	8
File Formats:	TIFF, JPEG, QuickTime MotionJPEG
More Information
Remote Control:	Yes
Tripod Mount:	Yes
Weight:	307 g 10.7 oz
Weight With Batteries?	No
Size:	110 x 76 x 70 mm 4.3 x 3.0 x 2.7 in
Notes & Features:	Compatible with SmartMedia up to 64MB. Complies with DPOF and DCF. Lens has 10 elements in 7 groups. Exposures 4-16 seconds in manual mode only. Exposures 1/30 to 1/10000 second in movie mode. Bundled with camera strap, USB cable, video cable, lens cap, lens cap strap and quick-start guide.

Specification Highlights - full specifications here
Olympus C-3040 Zoom
General
Model Number:	C-3040Z
Camera Format:	Compact
Retail Price:	$999
Date Available:	2001-03-31
Image Capture
Image Sensor:	0.55" 3.34 megapixel RGBG CCD
Image Resolution:	2048x1536, 1600x1200, 1280x960, 1024x768, 640x480
Movie Resolution:	320x240, 160x120
Lens
Focal Length (effective):	40 - 120 mm (3.00x optical zoom)
Digital Zoom:	Yes (2.5x, 5x in VGA mode)
Auto Focus:	Yes (iESP TTL contrast detection)
Manual Focus:	Yes
Normal Focus Range:	8 cm to Infinity 3.2 in to Infinity
Macro Focus Range:	8 - 20 cm 3.2 - 8.3 in
Aperture Range:	f/1.8 - f/10
Display
Optical Viewfinder:	Yes (Real Image type)
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes (1.8 inch, 114000 pixel)
Exposure
ISO Settings:	100 (other settings unknown)
White Balance Settings:	daylight, overcast, tungsten light, fluorescent light
Manual White Balance:	Yes
Shutter Speeds:	16 - 1/800 second
Exp Adj Range:	+/- 2.0 EV in 0.33 EV steps
Metering Modes:	iESP Multi, Spot
Exposure Modes:	Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual
Self Timer (seconds):	12
Flash
Internal Flash:	Yes
Flash Modes:	Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Forced, Off, Slow 1&2, External
Flash Range Description:	3.1 inches to 18 feet (0.8 to 5.6 m)
Ext Flash:	Yes
Ext Flash Connection:	FL-40 external flash
Image Storage
Flash Memory:	SmartMedia
Memory Included (MB):	16
File Formats:	TIFF, JPEG, QuickTime MotionJPEG
More Information
Remote Control:	Yes
Tripod Mount:	Yes
Weight:	307 g 10.7 oz
Weight With Batteries?	No
Size:	110 x 76 x 70 mm 4.3 x 3.0 x 2.7 in
Notes & Features:	Compatible with SmartMedia up to 64MB. Complies with DPOF and DCF. Lens has 10 elements in 7 groups. Exposures 4-16 seconds in manual mode only. Exposures 1/30 to 1/10000 second in movie mode. Bundled with camera case, remote control, camera strap, USB cable, video cable, lens cap, lens cap strap and quick-start guide. Very speedy 3.3 frames per second for 5 frames at highest resolution JPEG!

Thursday, January 4, 2001

"Ofoto is poised for explosive growth and brand recognition," said James Joaquin, CEO and president, Ofoto, Inc. "We clearly understand the importance of building a world-class brand through innovative marketing and strategic communications. Denise and Cameron are essential to that plan."

"Qimage Pro v10.5 has a new feature that allows for reversal of vignetting and removal of uneven color casts using a gray test frame to equalize color distribution across the image. This new filter called "frame equalization" can not only remove vignetting caused by lenses but can also remove uneven color biases such as the slight green cast on the left side of Fuji S1 images (sample at the Qimage Pro site). Instructions on the use of this new filter are presented in the news at the Qimage Pro site.

In addition to this enhancement, several bug fixes and a further reduction of memory requirements have been implemented since the holidays. We also just finished building the ICC profile for the
Olympus C-3030Z camera, and on 12/29/00 updated the profiles for the D1, S1 and Nikon 990 making them more accurate than the older versions."

"We are excited at the prospects of a relationship with an image capture technology leader such as Motorola," said James F. Dunn, Sound Vision's vice president, Strategic Accounts.

"We're tremendously impressed with the first images from Motorola's new sensor and the underlying pinned photo diode technology. The image quality and signal-to-noise ratio is better than anything we've seen previously. We believe this reference design answers customers' needs and is the first step in taking them to the next level," said Dunn.

"We are very pleased to work with Sound Vision because they provide superior image processing technologies giving them a strong market leadership position," stated Larry Arbaugh, manager of Motorola's Image Capture Operations. "Their expertise, combined with ours, will help us to anticipate and deliver what the market needs."

Wednesday, January 3, 2001

Tuesday, January 2, 2001

"The MCM20027 strengthens Motorola's position as a leading supplier of CMOS image sensors, and expands the company's CMOS image sensor portfolio from several custom and standard products to include a high-quality 1.3 megapixel SXGA image sensor," stated Larry Arbaugh, manager of Motorola's Image Capture Operations. "This will enable camera manufacturers to develop higher-quality consumer products at affordable prices."

AOL Alert: Several readers connecting via AOL have complained of poor image quality when using the AOL web browser. This is caused by a setting called "compress images" in the browser that causes it to completely mangle images in the interest of faster transmission. You should turn this setting OFF before viewing any of the comparison images on this site.

• FLASH: Thanks to reader Lynn Mannan, here's an explanation of how to make the correct settings adjustments (at least in AOL 4.0 for PCs):
  • I opened the "My AOL" preferences screen in the toolbar across the top. Then I clicked on WWW icon and selected the "web graphics" tab where I unchecked the "compressed graphics" choice and clicked on the Apply button at the bottom. Now the scanner test pictures are gorgeous. The pictures take a long time to load. But they are worth waiting for. Thank you, Lynn!