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Kodak DC5000 Familiar 2 megapixel electronics in a super-rugged case make a *true* take-anywhere camera! Select a topic Reference: Datasheet DC5000 Sample Images --------------------------------- 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 DC5000 Review --------------------------------- Digital Camera Comparometer (TM) --------------------------------- <-- Digital Cameras (Home) <-- Digital Camera Reviews Index <<Video, Power, Software :(Previous) | (Next): Reference: Datasheet>> Page 12:Test Results & Conclusion Review First Posted: 09/10/2000

Test Results
In keeping with our standard policy, our comments here are rather condensed, summarizing our key findings: For a full commentary on each of the test images, see the DC 5000's "pictures" page.

As with all Imaging Resource camera tests, we encourage you to let your own eyes be the judge of how well the devices performed: Explore the images on the pictures page, to see how well the DC5000 performed, and how its images compare to other cameras you may be considering buying.

Overall, we found the DC5000 to be a solid performer, with excellent color, very good 2-megapixel resolution, and very accurate viewfinder and exposure systems. It was fast and responsive, apparently using some degree of RAM buffering internally to improve cycle time for the first three shots of a series.

The DC5000's resolution approaches 800 lines per picture height vertically, and 650-700 horizontally on our resolution-target test, well on a par with other 2 megapixel cameras we've tested. It appears that the DC5000 renders high-contrast objects very well, but slips somewhat when the scene is characterized by lower contrast, as was the case with the outdoor model shots. On the plus side, the lens is totally free of geometric distortion, across its full focal-length range. (This is a real rarity in inexpensive zoom optics!)

The viewfinder systems are very accurate, the optical viewfinder showing 85-89% of the final image area depending on the zoom setting, and the LCD finder exactly 100%. The optical finder's view is well-centered in the final image area, particularly at moderate distances.

All in all, the DC5000 turned in a very good performance, marked in particular by the excellent color rendition we've found characteristic of Kodak digicams: With it's workmanlike software bundle, good capabilities, and exceptional ruggedness, we expect it will be very successful both in the "industrial" category Kodak seems to have it pegged for, as well as among personal users looking for the ultimate in a "go anywhere" camera.


Conclusion
As noted at the outset, the DC5000 is Kodak's "industrial-grade" upgrade of their prior DC280 model. For all intents and purposes, it appears to function identically to the very successful DC280, which should help it find a ready market among point & shoot users. The big news of course is the super-rugged, weatherproofed case claimed to be able to withstand dirt, dust, drops, and even (brief) dunking. If you need a digicam that produces great pictures and doesn't need coddling, the DC5000 could be just the ticket!