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Epson PhotoPC 3000Z Epson's first three-megapixel design boasts great image quality and loads of "enthusiast" features Select a topic Reference: Datasheet PhotoPC 3000Z Test Shots --------------------------------- 1. Intro and Highlights 2. Executive Overview 3. Design 4. Viewfinder 5. Optics 6. Exposure & Flash 7. Shutter Lag & Cycle Time Tests 8. Operation & User Interface 9. Camera Modes & Menus 10. Image Storage & Interface 11. Video, Power, Software 12. Test Results & Conclusion --------------------------------- Print-Friendly Review Version Additional Resources and Other Links Reader Comments on PhotoPC 3000Z Review --------------------------------- Digital Camera Comparometer (TM) --------------------------------- <-- Digital Cameras (Home) <-- Digital Camera Reviews Index <<Executive Overview :(Previous) | (Next): Viewfinder>> Page 3:Design Review First Posted: 10/01/2000

Design
From a design standpoint, Epson's 3000Z is very reminiscent of a traditional film-based 35mm camera, with its hefty handgrip and overall shape. While its stocky frame (4.3 x 3.5 x 2.6 inches or 108 x 89 x 65 mm) probably won't easily slip into your shirt pocket, the 3000Z could potentially fit into a large coat pocket or purse. The sturdy neck strap Epson provides helps in the portability department. The camera also comes with a soft carrying case. Despite its chubby appearance, the 3000Z only weighs 12.9 ounces (365 g) without batteries, strap and CompactFlash card.

From the front of the camera, the lens, flash, optical viewfinder window and the self-timer LED are all visible. The telescoping lens extends from the lens barrel when the camera is powered on and the mode dial is turned to one of the capture modes. Likewise, when the camera is turned off, the lens retracts. A plastic lens cap protects the lens when the camera is not in use and features a small strap to attach it to the camera.

The handgrip side of the camera holds the CompactFlash slot, which is covered by a hinged, plastic door that snaps securely into place. The size of the handgrip is large enough to provide a good, firm hold and the textured covering gives your fingers something to cling to.

The opposite side of the camera holds the dioptric adjustment dial for the optical viewfinder and the digital, USB, video and DC connections, all beneath a flexible rubber flap. We have to admit that this flap is somewhat awkward in that it doesn't really slide out of the way when opened. Instead, it just flips over on top of itself, because it's actually attached at one corner. This makes it a little annoying when trying to plug in cables, since you have to hold the flap out of the way. We also foresee that after frequent use, the thin rubber could break in two.

The 3000Z's back panel features the optical zoom controls, optical viewfinder, microphone, speaker and LCD display, along with a few other control buttons. The LCD monitor is probably one of our favorite design elements on this camera, as it features an ever present menu along the bottom and right sides of the display that corresponds to adjacent control buttons. What this means is that you no longer need to take the time to sort through menu screens, you just change the setting as you shoot. We found ourselves really liking this user interface design.

On top of the camera is an external flash hot shoe, small status display panel, a few more control buttons, the shutter button, mode dial and power button. All of the top panel controls are within easy reach of your right hand, enabling a fair amount of one-handed operation.

Finally, the 3000Z features a flat bottom, holding the plastic tripod mount and the battery compartment. We're glad to report that the spacing between the battery compartment and the tripod mount is just enough to allow you to change batteries while working with a tripod. Given the amount of studio work we do, we always pay attention to this area. Our only complaint here is that the battery compartment door is a little tough to close. The motion isn't very fluid and it's easy to get the door out of alignment when you're trying to slide it back.