Archive for August, 2006
Digicam Buyer Brand Loyalty: a Thing of the Past
Marketnews.ca, Canada
Westlake, CA, August 30, 2006: According to the recently released J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study, brand loyalty among digital camera buyers has become less apparent, as increasing choices are making it difficult for the consumer to differentiate among brands.
The study found that a measly 26 per cent of respondents said they would purchase the same camera brand as their current model in the future, representing a nine per cent decrease from the 35 per cent that said they’d stay true to their current brand in 2005.
Measured on a 1,000-point scale, overall customer satisfaction of digital cameras declined to 805 points in 2006 from 816 points in 2005. The most significant drop was within entry-level buyers ($199 or less), which fell 27 points from 2005. In the $200-$399 and $400-$599 segments, satisfaction remained virtually flat. On the contrary, satisfaction was up 12 points in the high-end segment, which represents cameras of $600 or more.
“While price and picture quality remain strong purchase motivators, competitive parity is making product features, functions and brand reputation less important to consumers,” said Steve Kirkeby, Executive Director of Telecommunications and Technology Research at J.D. Power and Associates. “In a market where there is increasing product parity, listening and effectively responding to the voice of the customer is crucial to manufacturers in providing products that will improve satisfaction and solidify loyalty. Aggressive pricing, coupled with packages containing lenses and accessories, Web photo printing and sharing, if not photo printers themselves, are quickly becoming the competitive norm.”
The study found that customers are researching product information prior to making a purchasing decision, most often via third-party, independent reviews. Of the U.S. consumers surveyed, 63 per cent said they use the Internet as a source of information, and 33 per cent said they use consumer product publications. Consumers’ decisions are also affected by recommendations from family and friends (33 per cent) and the salesperson’s opinion (27 per cent).
“Camera buyers display a strong need for information prior to their purchase, and the more money they intend to spend, the more research they do,” Kirkeby explained. “Product similarities and complexities are driving consumers to seek information from multiple sources. Ninety-one per cent of all digital camera buyers report doing some type of research prior to purchasing a new camera.”
When it comes to top brands, Kodak ranked highest for the third year in a row in the most popular segment: $200-$399, achieving top ratings in cost, connectivity, ease of use, and picture quality. Sony followed at close second.
Nikon ranked highest in the $199 or less category, with high ratings on picture quality, appearance, and connectivity; and Sony wasn’t far behind, gaining top ratings in functionality.
In the $400-$500 segment, Canon ranked highest, receiving the highest ratings in functionality, picture quality and cost. Again, Sony followed as a close second, gaining positive responses for ease of use, appearance and connectivity.
Olympus took top honours in the high-end, $600 or more arena, jumping 63 index points from last year, and showing considerable gains in quality and functionality ratings. Nikon followed at a close second.
The study also reviewed gender differences, and found that women are most likely to purchase a camera from the $199 or less segment, and men from the $200-$399 segment. In general, men take nearly one and one-third times as many pictures per month than women, by an average of 109 versus 82.
J.D. Power & Associates’ 2006 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study is based on responses from more than 5,800 U.S. consumers who purchased or received a digital camera between January and July, 2006.
For more information, viist www.jdpower.com.
[Photo (courtesy of Sony of Canada Ltd.): J.D. Power & Associates’ latest digital camera study provides insight into consumer’s views of the category, and specific brand names.]
Published: 8/30/2006 3:35:30 PM
August 31st, 2006
Club snaps up Lottery cash
By Telegraph newsdesk
Burnley Citizen, UK
BURNLEY Camera Club has been awarded a National Lottery grant of just under £5,000 from the Awards For All funds.
All £4,996 of the award will be used to buy digital photographic equipment, including a laptop, digital projector and photo printer.The new equipment will enable club members to improve their editing and manipulation skills, producing prints and slide shows for use on television.
Alan Porter, president of the club, said: “We are over the moon to hear we will receive this grant. We applied for the grant to upgrade our facilities we can offer to members and hopefully attract new ones.
“Digital photography is the way forward but it is an expensive hobby, so by getting this grant we can provide our members with the best in technology, and we are also hoping to set up some teaching and tuition for our members.”
Mr Porter added: “We are all quite new to this field of photography, and so we are hoping to learn from each other, and that our new facilities will attract others who can further our knowledge even more.”
The club’s new winter season starts on September 5.
Meetings will be held on Tuesdays at Sion Baptist Church, Burnley between 7.15pm and 9.15 pm and all new members and visitors are welcome.
Anyone who wants further information can contact Mr Porter via e-mail on alanporter@glenburn.me.uk or by phone on 01282 427853.
August 30th, 2006
SLR versatility in a digital camera
By Larry Magid
San Jose Mercury News, USA
Special to the Mercury News
Like a lot of people, I own a point-and-shoot digital camera with a 3x optical zoom. It costs well under $200, is small enough to fit in a pocket and it’s great for everyday pictures.
But it failed me in May when I wanted that once-in-a-lifetime shot of my daughter receiving her college diploma. I was just too far back for the little zoom lens to capture the moment.
The experience piqued my interest in getting a much higher-end “single lens reflex'’ digital camera with interchangeable lenses, including a high-powered zoom lens, but I was taken back by both the price and complexity of SLR cameras. So I searched around for something in between.
My friend George Margolin, a former technical editor of Popular Photography, raved about his Panasonic FZ30, calling it “the most versatile camera you can buy.'’ But when I called the company I found out it was being phased out in favor of the Lumix DMC-FZ50, which should be available in September. Panasonic loaned me the new camera and I am indeed impressed.
You just have to look at or hold this camera to sense that it’s a serious piece of equipment. At about $600 it’s cheaper than most SLR cameras but it makes very few compromises in terms of user control and photo quality.
At 1.6 pounds, measuring 5.5 by 3.4 by 5.6 inches, it’s far from pocket-size. Unlike those pocket cameras, the 12X zoom lens has real manual zoom and focus rings around the side of the lens and if you do zoom in from afar, you’ll appreciate its image stabilization, which cuts down on blurring.
Anyone with kids, animals or other moving objects also will appreciate that the camera is very fast. The new camera is a successor to Panasonic’s popular FZ30, though now with a 10 megapixel sensor, support for SD cards larger than 2 GB and other refinements. There is a built-in flash and a shoe for an external flash.
Lucky for me, the camera can operate in fully automatic mode but it also has more than enough controls and settings, including an optional manual focus, for serious photographers.
August 29th, 2006
Optical zoom is optimal for cameras
Belleville News-Democrat, IL
Q. Most of the digital cameras I see in Target and Best Buy ads boast 3X or 4X optical and digital zooms. Is there a difference between optical and digital zooms? And how does 3X and 4X compare to the millimeter zoom measurements on conventional 35mm film cameras?
– J. Lutz of Belleville.
A. Although even my camera-clicking colleagues here had some trouble explaining this to me, let’s see if I can bring it into focus for you with this general statement: There is a huge difference between optical and digital zooms — and it’s the optical that you’ll want to zoom in on when buying. Here’s why:
A camera lens works like your eye — it collects light rays and brings them into focus on a “retina.” In an old-fashioned camera, this retina is a piece of film; in a digital camera, it’s an electronic sensor. In either case, the distance between the lens and where the light rays come into focus is the focal length of the lens.
Unlike your eye, a zoom lens allows you to vary that focal length, making images appear closer or farther away even while standing in the same spot. In a film camera, this is done by adjusting the moveable glass elements inside the lens, thus increasing or decreasing the field of view, but still keeping the image sharp.
Well, the optical zoom on a digital camera works much the same way. This might explain it best: If you have, say, a 2-megapixel camera, your picture will consist of 2 million pixels no matter how far in or out you go with your optical zoom. (A pixel — short for picture element — is a single, tiny point in an image.) You don’t degrade the resolution of the picture by using the optical zoom, so your photo remains sharp.
Digital zoom is a different story. Once you reach the limit of your optical zoom, your camera’s brain has to start playing around with those individual pixels to magnify the image more. And, once you start doing that, your picture quality starts going downhill.
Your digital “zoom” works by taking a certain area of your picture and blowing up the size of the pixels. So, for example, instead of using 2 million pixels to produce a 3×5 photograph, you are now taking an area of that photo with maybe 1 million or 1.5 million pixels and blowing them up to fill the same space. I won’t get into the algorithms the camera uses to do this, but it boils down to this: The more you zoom in digitally, the fewer the pixels, the bigger they are and, generally, the poorer the photo.
Here’s another way to look at it: Using the camera’s digital zoom is no different than cropping and resizing the photo with a computer program later. In both cases, you lose resolution by cutting some pixels and blowing up the remainder.
Hopefully by now you understand why your optical number is far more important. Comparing it to a conventional film camera is a bit tricky, but here’s a rule of thumb: Find out the camera’s widest angle (smallest lens mm value) and mutliply it by its optical zoom X-factor.
For example, if the shortest focal length of the camera is about 35mm (as many are), a 3X would give you a maximum telephoto of about 105mm while a 10X would give you a 350. You, of course, have to decide what you need and what you can afford.
One final word of advice: Make sure you find individual optical and digital X-factors. Although I haven’t seen it much lately, some companies apparently may boast a “20X zoom” without telling you whether it has a 2X optical and 10X digital zoom or a 4X optical and 5X digital, your better choice.
Q. How do you get yellowish keys on an organ white again? I bought a wonderful organ in good condition at an auction but I need help cleaning the keys.
– K.R. of Evansville
A. To borrow an old toothpaste slogan, I wish it were as simple as saying, “You’ll wonder where the yellow went if you brush your keys with Pepsodent.”
Unfortunately it’s not, and the keyboard shops, repairmen and restorers that I talked to all hit the same sour note: It’s probably not possible.
Your instrument was manufactured in the ’70s, so the keys are almost certainly a plastic or otherwise synthetic material, not ivory. You might try using a cloth dampened with lemon juice or bleach (wear gloves) on a small area and see what happens; just make sure you don’t spill liquid on any electronic contacts.
Other than that, your only alternative would be to dress up your old organ in a new set of keys, something that would cost roughly $200, according to Morelock’s Organ Parts in Rienzi, Mass.
Q. Is there anything I can do for squeaky windshield wipers? Cleaning them makes them worse, and I don’t want to scratch the glass.
– Andy Petraglia of Cahokia
A. You didn’t tell me their age, but squeaking is usually a sign that your wipers are simply wiped out — in every sense of the phrase.
According to the friendly folks at Plaza Auto Parts in Belleville, wipers may last two to three years if the car is parked in the shade all day and garaged at night. But if the sun beats down on them relentlessly as it has on mine the past month or two, your wipers could go in as little as six months to a year.
New wipers are soft and flexible so they act as a squeegee as they move silently back and forth across your windshield. Exposed to the sun, they become brittle and inflexible, causing that squeaky rattle. New refills would cure this.
The only other suspect is a windshield covered with excess roadfilm; try cleaning it thoroughly and see if it helps. And, of course, make sure the blades are installed properly.
Send your questions to Roger Schlueter, Belleville News-Democrat, 120 S. Illinois St., P.O. Box 427, Belleville, IL 62222-0427 or rschlueter@bnd.com
August 29th, 2006
Fujifilm Launches 9 MP FinePix S9100 SLR-Styled Digital Camera
IT News Online Staff
2006-08-27
IT News Online, India
Fujifilm has launched the FinePix S9100, the latest model in its SLR-styled digital camera line-up and successor to the FinePix S9000. The camera features a 10.7x Fujinon optical zoom lens, 9 MP Fujifilm Super CCD sensor and ISO 80-1600 capabilities.
The company said the FinePix S9100 is aimed at photo enthusiasts who will benefit from its impressive zoom range, functionality, high light sensitivities and overall image quality.
The camera’s high sensitivity range, made possible by Fujifilm’s Real Photo Technology, enables FinePix S9100 users to capture images using natural light in a wide variety of lighting conditions. Fujifilm’s Picture Stabilization technology uses the heightened sensitivity of the FinePix S9100 and high-speed shutter settings to reduce blur caused by camera shake and subject movement. This easy-to-access feature is selectable on the mode dial and allows the FinePix S9100 to choose the correct light sensitivity and best-matching shutter speed automatically for the highest quality digital pictures.
Features of the FinePix S9100:
- i-Flash: Fujifilm’s intelligent flash system fine-tunes output for shooting with high sensitivity settings. i-Flash recognizes scene conditions and adjusts flash intensity accordingly to ensure superb results. With i-Flash, subjects in the foreground appear natural and background detail is bright and clear. Fujifilm said the difference is especially noticeable in portraits with subjects that exhibit true-to-life skin tones.
- Fujinon Lens Technology and Zooming: The FinePix S9100 features a 10.7x wide angle optical zoom with a focal range equivalent of 28 mm - 300 mm. In Super Macro mode, the FinePix S9100 can focus clearly as close as 0.4-inches, and the overall speed of focusing is much improved over the FinePix S9000. With the addition of a beam assist, the camera will focus automatically in lowlight conditions.
- New Processing Algorithms: Users will notice a difference in the photographs taken by the FinePix S9100. New processing algorithms have led to increased sharpness and greater resolution.
- Tilted LCD Screen: The FinePix S9100 has all its angles covered with a tilting 2″ LCD, making it easy to frame your shot from a variety of shooting positions. The LCD gain-up control allows viewing of the LCD in bright and low light conditions. The viewfinder is electronic with 235,000 pixel resolution and provides around 100% coverage.
- HS-V2 Software: The inclusion of Fujifilm’s Hyper Utility Software HS-V2 version 3 software enables FinePix S9100 photographers to explore the full potential of the camera’s RAW file format. By fully controlling the 18 million pixel RAW file from the FinePix S9100’s Super CCD, photographers can enjoy the control and flexibility of working on a “lossless” file format.
The Fujifilm FinePix S9100 is expected to be available in September for $599.
August 28th, 2006
Fujifilm improves on an enthusiast’s favourite with the new FinePix S9100
Canada NewsWire (press release), Canada
Fuji’s latest model provides iFlash function, providing clearer, sharpe images
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Aug. 24 /CNW/ - Fujifilm today announced the launch of
the FinePix S9100, a refinement of the highly-regarded FinePix S9000, with
10.7x Fujinon optical zoom lens, 9 megapixel Fujifilm Super CCD sensor, and
class-leading ISO 80-1600 performance.
The outgoing FinePix S9000 won an excellent reputation in a highly competitive area of the camera market and the FinePix S9100 builds on the
quality of its predecessor with the addition of some significant extra features. The FinePix S9100 is aimed at serious hobbyist and enthusiast photographers who will benefit from its impressive optical zoom lens range, plus superb functionality, image quality and responsiveness
The new camera’s sensitivity range, made possible by Fujifilm’s Real
Photo Processor enables users to take images in all lighting conditions, not
just bright sunlight. Furthermore, the potential for blurry images is all but
eliminated. Unlike optical image stabilization systems, the high ISO setting
combats blur caused by both camera shake and subject movement.
The camera’s renowned Fujinon 10.7x (28-300mm - 35mm equivalent) zoom
lens incorporates aspherical elements within its design, and is already
distinguished for its optical qualities. Not only does its versatile optical
range offer all of the most popular focal lengths in one package, but the
closed unit of body and lens helps diminish the potential of external dust
particles which may compromise image quality. The lens is easily controlled
via a manual zoom ring, giving pinpoint accuracy when composing the image.
Joining an already impressive ‘S-series’ FinePix line-up, the S9100 will
be available in October at a price of $699.99.
The FinePix S9100’s five areas of improvement over the FinePix S9000 are:
————————————————————————
<<
- Increased sharpness and resolution achieved via improvements in new
image processing algorithms
- The image quality of this body and sensor combination has already
gathered acclaim, and the FinePix S9100 delivers improvements in the
area of resolution and image sharpness, giving enthusiast
photographers a level of quality that will satisfy even the most
critical inspection.
- Increased size 2" LCD monitor with 235,000 pixels. The size of LCD has
been increased from the FinePix S9000. The new 2.0 inch tilting LCD
screen on the FinePix S9100 means flexibility for shooting at any
angle, such as close to the ground or overhead. Unlike conventional
digital SLRs, the 235,000-pixel LCD can also be used to compose
images, which means even more convenience for the photographer.
- iFlash (Intelligent flash function), which provides even foreground
illumination, with blur-free, well-exposed backgrounds. Using flash at
night has traditionally involved the choice between the dark,
underexposed backgrounds of conventional flash, or the blurred
background swirl of a slow-sync flash. Fujifilm's iFlash on the
FinePix S9100 makes full use of the camera's inherent sensitivity to
achieve a clear, sharp, well-exposed background, and proper flash
exposure in the foreground.
- Improved autofocus speed. The camera's response times for autofocus
have also been improved by up to 40%, enabling the user to compose,
frame and take action photographs without delay, especially in darker
conditions.
- HS-V2 software included for full functionality in RAW file conversion.
The Fujifilm Hyper Utility Software HS-V2 version 3, means that the
photographer can explore the full potential of the camera's RAW file
format. With full control of the 18 million pixel RAW file from the
Super CCD, the photographer can enjoy the control and flexibility of
working on a 'lossless' file format.
- A 30-frames-per-second movie mode with manual zoom capability and
sound. The new S9100 features this unique function that cannot be
integrated into traditional digital SLRs due to the physical designs
of these cameras.
FinePix S9100 features at a glance:
----------------------------------
- Fujifilm Super CCD sensor with 9.0 million effective pixels
- Fujifilm RP (Real Photo) Processor
- iFlash (Intelligent Flash system)
- New 28-300mm (10.7x) Fujinon zoom lens with manual twist-barrel zoom
control
- Class-leading sensitivity setting of ISO 1600 at full resolution for
photography in low light conditions
- Low sensitivity of ISO 80 for ultra-high quality photography
- 2.0", (235,000 pixel) tilting LCD screen for easy high and low angle
shooting
- Ultra-fast response times (0.01 second shutter lag and 0.8 second
start-up)
- Real-time histogram to assist exposure settings before shooting
- Highlight Warning feature for displaying highlight areas in playback
- VGA movie capture of 30 frames per second with zoom capability and
sound
- Closed unit design to help diminish dust accumulation on the CCD
- Hotshoe and PC sync terminal
- Hyper Utility Software HS-V2 version 3 for RAW format shooting
- Both xD-Picture Card(TM) and CompactFlash(TM)/Microdrive compatible
>>
About Fuji Photo Film Canada Inc
——————————–
Fuji Photo Film Canada Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Photo
Film Co. Ltd. of Tokyo, one of the world’s leading imaging and information
product developers and manufacturers. Fuji Photo Film Canada is based in
Mississauga, Ontario, with regional offices in Montreal and Vancouver.
Fuji Photo Film Canada creates new dimensions in photography and storage
media by introducing innovative technologies in the digital camera, digital
and film photofinishing, camera and data media categories. Recent advancements
such as Digital Super CCD, Image Intelligence, 4th Colour Layer Film
Technology, ATOMM and NANOCUBIC Media have helped the company establish itself
as the brand of choice by Canadian consumers.
Fuji Photo Film Canada Inc. also makes environmentally friendly practices
central to its business including its operations, its products and its
community outreach. Green is more than just its corporate colour. It is a
symbol of its commitment to improving our world - one person, one classroom,
and one species at a time. Their efforts and dedication to continual
improvement is reflected in the ISO 14001:1996 certification achieved in 2001
and ISO 9001:2001 in 2004.
All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their
registered owners.
August 25th, 2006
Olympus FE-200 Digital Camera
Buy N Shoot, Australia
Today’s entry-level digital cameras are expected to be small yet powerful and most importantly, easy to use. Judging by these criteria, the new Olympus FE-200 leaves nothing to be desired and even offers something extra. Despite its compact form that lets it fit into virtually any pocket, it incorporates an impressive 5x zoom lens that spans from 28-140mm (35mm equivalent). As well as letting users zoom right into the middle of the action, its wide-angle capabilities also let photographers fit more of the scene into the frame – whether for stunning panorama shots or broader views at close range.
The camera’s highly-advanced inner-workings are protected by an ultra-compact, stylish metal body. 6.0 million pixels, meanwhile, ensure that what’s captured through the powerful zoom lens is faithfully recorded in crystal-clear quality. And since snapshooters usually don’t want to bother with reading through lengthy manuals and would rather start shooting immediately, camera operation is simple and fun. This is not least thanks to the intuitive “one button, one function” design principle and handy help function that explains the main camera features directly on the large 6.4cm LCD.
Fitting a precision 5x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 28-140mm on a 35mm model) into such a small metal body represents a considerable technical challenge. Mastering this, Olympus has produced a compact camera that is both a close-up and wide-angle specialist. On the one hand, the FE-200 lets users get significantly closer to subjects, and on the other, it can capture more of a scene within the frame – depending on the zoom setting chosen. These dual tele and wide capabilities provide performance and flexibility that’s unmatched in the entry-level camera class.
With 6.0 million pixels, this model gives users ample imaging power to obtain sensationally sharp photos – even for large-format printouts. And to ensure that none of the action is missed, a big 6.4cm LCD enables comfortable framing and instant viewing joy.
Even people who’ve never held a digital camera in their life before will have no problem with this model’s operation thanks to a “one button, one function” design principle. Furthermore, a help function that explains all settings assists along the way. Ten pre-defined scene modes offer the option to let the camera automatically make the optimal settings for many common shooting situations. A mode dial that can be conveniently turned with the thumb makes it quick to switch between the camera’s eight different programmes (incl. Image Stabilisation Mode with ISO 800) and spares users the work of making their way through menus. And so that macro as well as video enthusiasts are also not left wanting, this model includes a Super Macro mode for pictures from as little as 5cm away and a movie function with sound.
Naturally, the FE-200 features an xD-Picture Card slot, in addition to internal memory. The camera comes with the Olympus Master Software that enables easy downloading, organising, editing and versatile printing of images with the computer.
The FE-200 offers everything expected from an entry-level camera – and more: style, simplicity, imaging power, affordability – plus the amazing versatility of a wide-angle 5x zoom. Overall, it’s a tough package to beat. This ultra-compact multi-talent will hit the shelves from September 2006.
The Olympus FE-200 – main features:
6.0 million pixels in a stylish metal body
5x optical zoom (equiv. to 28-140mm on a 35mm model), 1:3.3-4.8
6.4cm/2.5” LCD
One button, one function design principle
Help function that explains camera features directly on LCD
10 scene modes (e.g. Sports, Indoor, Fireworks)
Movie recording with sound up to card capacity
Internal memory plus xD-Picture Card slot
Supplied with Olympus Master Software + LI-12B lithium-ion battery and charger
Multi-language menu (with 10 languages) plus possibility to download further languages from the internet (25 European languages available)
About Olympus
In Greek mythology, Mt.Olympus is the home of the twelve supreme gods and goddesses. Olympus was named after this mountain to reflect its strong aspiration to create high quality, world famous products.
“Olympus” has been used as a trademark since the time of Takachiho Seisakusho, the predecessor of Olympus Corporation.
In Japanese mythology, it is said that eight million gods and goddesses live in Takamagahara, the peak of Mt.Takachiho. The name “Olympus” was selected as the trademark because Mt.Olympus, like Mt.Takachiho, was the home of gods and goddesses. This trademark is also imbued with the aspiration of Olympus to illuminate the world with its optical devices, just like Takamagahara brought light to the world.
Takachiho Seisakusho was renamed Takachiho Optical Co., Ltd. in 1942 when optical products became the mainstay of the company. In 1947, the name was changed again to Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. in an attempt to enhance its corporate image.
And in 2003, the company made a fresh start as Olympus Corporation, to show its willingness to establish a dynamic corporate brand by unifying the corporate name and the well-known brand.
In recent years, Olympus Corporation has focused on “Opto-Digital Technology” as its core competence, technological strengths that competitors cannot easily imitate, to maximize corporate value and to become one of the top optical instrument manufactures.
August 24th, 2006
Public hearing presses for compensation from Kodak
People’s Daily Online, China
The absence of representatives from Eastman Kodak at a public hearing here on Tuesday stoked up the complaints of Chinese consumers toward the American imaging giant.
The hearing followed several feeble mediation by China Consumers’ Association on the quality complaints of 343 Chinese toward digital camera Model LS443.
Most of the consumers filed their complaints in July, saying that their cameras had encountered problems such as blank screen, overexposure and mal-functioning lens under normal operation within a year after their purchase. To get these problems fixed, Kodak’s services stations had charged at least 1,500 yuan for an upgraded lens. In Taiwan, they claimed, upgrading camera lens of this model was free of charge.
China Consumers’ Association mailed an investigation letter to Kodak on July 14 and got a written reply to the effect that Model LS 443 had passed the inspection of the Chinese quality authorities before it was put to market in November 2002.
It said digital cameras possessed by Chinese consumers who filed complaints have gone beyond the one-year warranty while the statement of free-upgrading in Taiwan was false.
In response, the association sent over five cameras of the model to the Camera Quality Inspection Center of Weaponary Industry. The results revealed that all of the samples had problems caused by deficient design. So far, Kodak didn’t budge in its original stance.
During the hearing, director Pi Jianlong of the Beijing Jintai Law Firm blamed Kodak for the lack of sincerity. He said the manufacturer was attempting to substitute a concept stealthily. “It is an ill logic to say all of their products had good quality just because the sample products passed quality inspection,” he said.
Doctor Liu Junhai with the China Academy of Social Sciences said Manufacturers should be full responsible for their defective products so as to protect the interests of consumers.
Liu Yang with the Defective Product Control Center of the the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said a compulsory quality standards on digital cameras and a call-back system for defective products in general must be established soon.
Kodak made no comments on the public hearing, only saying that they have set up special teams to work on these complaints.
Kodak, maker of the world’s first digital camera in 1976, launched a massive transition to digital business from 2002. It has surpassed all the other brands to become the top digital camera seller in the United States in 2004. More than 96 percent of their traditional cameras and all of their digital cameras are made in China.
Source: Xinhua
August 23rd, 2006
Samsung Cameras Pro815 8 megapixel digital camera
Byte Gallery, FL
Samsung Camera releases the best-in-class 8 megapixel digital camera - Pro815
Samsung Camera has announced that the company will release the world’s longest(15X) optical zoom 8 megapixel high-end digital camera(model name: Pro815), targeting enthusiast photographers, later this year. The Pro815, offers unrivalled features and performance and is beyond comparison to other cameras in the same class. This marks the pinnacle of Samsung Camera’s product range for 2005.
The Pro815 is equipped with a 15X optical zoom with a focal length of 28-420mm(35mm equivalent), this means you can shoot from wide angle to telephoto with one lens. Normally it is not possible to incorporate both 28mm wide-angle and 420mm tele-zoom capabilities in an average high-end camera, since they generally, only come with a 7-8X zoom. With SLR systems, different lenses need to be switched to shoot wide-angle and ultra high zoom pictures, this means carrying lots of equipment, missing some shots due to lens changeover and buying multiple lenses. The Pro815 has four low-dispersion glass lenses specially manufactured to minimize chromatic aberration that can occur when wide-angle and ultra high zoom are supported at the same time. In addition, it employs 2 aspherical lenses for the correction of spherical aberration and lateral colours for the entire zoom range from wide to tele. This world-renowned Schneider-KREUZNACH lens offers outstanding reliability. This lens combined with the high-sensitivity CCD means the Pro815 provides the best image quality possible in its class.
Another feature of the Pro815 is that it has the world’s largest 3.5″ TFT LCD used in a digital camera. Conventional high-end or SLR cameras use a relatively small 1.8-2.0″ LCD and the screen does not show the shot at the point of taking the picture for SLR. With the Pro815, anybody can easily take a picture and view images through its large LCD, the large LCD is also a real benefit for better composition. By using Transmissive with Micro Reflective(TMR) technology, it can be displayed at bright condition outdoors.
This, coupled with the 16.7million true colours supported means you can share your images with other people because the viewing angle is wide and the colours are well reproduced. There is also an electronic viewfinder.
The Pro815 comes with the world’s largest-capacity 1900mAh, 7.4V lithium-ion battery included. A large-capacity battery is a must because this camera encourages you to take more pictures. On a full charge this battery can enable shooting of up to 500 frames(based on CIPA standard), before further charging is required.
Another great feature of the Pro815 is waist-level shooting, enabled by its top LCD. The 1.44″ wide colour TFT LCD of the Pro815 displays a preview screen in real time, allowing the waist-level shooting style often adopted by professional photographers. This LCD position enables high-level shooting as well as taking pictures from various angles. The top LCD can also be used as a status LCD to display shooting data. Since the required information is available on the LCD at all times, you can shoot a subject or choose a desired function more quickly.
The High speed mode provided by the Pro815 ensures steady shooting even in tele-zoom. The camera has a highsensitivity 2/3″ CCD and a large high-performance lens. When High speed mode is selected, the Pro815 automatically increases the sensitivity up to max ISO 800, depending on the surrounding exposure and focal length. Employing an exclusive low-noise processing algorithm, the Pro815 ensures superb image quality with low noise, even at ISO 800. In addition, in High speed mode, a faster shutter speed enables sharp shooting of fast moving targets.
The Pro815 achieves the fastest response times in its class. Its startup and shot-to-shot speeds have been reduced to 1.0 second and 1.3 second respectively, and it delivers a fast AF speed of lower than 1.0 second even in tele-zoom mode by utilizing a passive AF sensor. The shutter release lag of 0.05 seconds lets you capture those shots without fail.
The Pro815 includes high-speed continuous shooting at 2.5 frames/sec, normal continuous shooting that lets you shoot while viewing an image taken on the LCD, and ultra high speed continuous shooting that allows you to shoot up to ten 1Megapixel-sized images per second. As it has high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, images taken can be transferred to a PC quickly.
The Pro815 offers comprehensive manual photography features that should meet all the needs of aspiring photographers. Manual exposure(Aperture/Shutter/Manual) and manual focus control features are included as standard.
Three rings surrounding the lens controls manual zoom, manual focusing and EV compensation, provide you with direct control of manual operations. The dual jog system, which is used to control aperture and shutter speed, also delivers precision in manual operation. The camera has various focusing modes including AF Lock, Continuous AF and Select Area AF. Its direct manual focusing feature lets you switch to manual focusing from AF instantly by turning the manual focus ring. In addition, bracketed shooting is allowed for exposure, focus and white balance. In particular, white balance is available in Preset, Custom and Colour Temperature Adjust modes. This lets you express colours exactly as you want. Contrast and saturation can also be controlled for creative expression in the depth of colour required. The camera supports Adobe RGB color space as well as an 8 MP non-compressed RAW file, making it the perfect choice for enthusiast image output.
The Display mode of the Pro815, which utilizes a large 3.5″ LCD, extends its application potential even further. In contrast to the normal 9-thumbnail screen, the Pro815 has a 25-thumbnail display, allowing you to search for a desired picture more quickly. The camera also offers histogram display for checking and adjusting an exposure, and grid display for easier image composition.
In particular, the exclusive features are Review Shot mode, that lets you set the optimal image composition while viewing an image just taken, together with the technical details: and a display mode that allows you just to display an image in the centre of the screen, and place the icons and other screen information at the edges of the screen. The Pro815 is equipped with a high-powered built in flash to let you obtain a perfectly exposed picture even in dark environments. The Pro815 not only has a powerful flash that allows shooting at up to 7.7m(wide settings) but can also compensate a flash light by +/-2EV depending on the surrounding exposure environment. Not content with delivering a truly all round still picture experience the Pro815 supports video recording to VGA screen size with stereo sound.
A rich and varied set of accessories enhances the Pro815 offer even further.
First, a lens hood, essential for outdoor photography, is included and can be reversed to make it easier to carry when the camera is not being used. A lens adapter for general-purpose filter mounting and lens cap for lens protection are also included.
The optional external flash(SEF-42A) is a large-capacity flash that follows Guide No. 42, and its angle can be adjusted for creative use of flash lighting. In addition, an optional external remote control can also be purchased. The external remote control can be operated to the side of the camera as well as with the front. A luxury case can also be purchased separately.
The launch of the new Pro815 is a brilliant achievement from Samsung Camera, based on the technology it has refined through compact digital camera development. The launch of the Pro815 by Samsung Camera will add a truly aspirational camera for enthusiasts to its already strong compact camera product lines.
August 22nd, 2006
Pentax Introduces the Optio M20 Digital Camera
CameraTown.Com, NH
Pentax Imaging Company today has announced the latest model in the Optio M series. The Optio M20 is a compact, affordable digital camera, offering 7.0 effective megapixels plus a wide range of basic features including extended AA battery life that makes the camera an ideal travel companion. This new model also features the new PENTAX High ISO Blur Reduction mode for sharper images without camera shake or subject blurring.
Then Pentax Optio M20 will also have the ability to capture videos at 30fps at resolutions up to 640×480 with image quality rivaling that of camcorders. Camera shake while shooting video can be corrected automatically using the movie anti-shake function. Other features includes face recognition auto focus & auto exposure, auto-tracking auto focus, large 2.5″ LCD monitor, and a 3x optical zoom lens with a 38-114mm (35mm equivalent) zoom ratio.
Pentax will ship the Optio M20 in September with a retail price under $200.00
Pentax Optio M20 Feature Highlights
7.0 effective megapixels permit beautiful, crisp prints even at large-format sizes
The Optio M20 produces clear images with impressive quality thanks to the high resolution afforded by its 7.0 effective megapixels and to its high-performance smc PENTAX lens. This superlative resolution makes it possible to attain prints with crisp details even when the photo is greatly enlarged.
Outstanding battery life
With a comprehensive energy-saving design, the Optio M20 provides exceptional battery life (approximately 220 images with AA alkaline batteries,* or approximately 700 images with AA lithium batteries*) for on-the-go power.
*Measured under testing conditions prescribed by CIPA standards.
New Blur Reduction mode reduces camera shake and subject blurring
The Optio M20 is equipped with a High ISO Blur Reduction mode, a new feature that lets you take photos at faster shutter speeds for sharper images even in dim lighting conditions such as night scenes and indoor sporting events. In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts the sensitivity to as high as ISO 1600 to match the brightness of the subject. The higher sensitivity permits faster shutter speeds that effectively reduce not just camera shake but also blurring caused by moving subjects.
Auto Picture mode automatically determines the best settings for the shooting conditions
The Auto Picture mode lets the camera automatically determine the shooting conditions for Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, and Program modes and choose the optimum settings for each subject. This PENTAX original function simplifies shooting for users since it eliminates the necessity of making a number of individual settings.
High-quality Movies with Anti-Shake Function
The Optio M20 captures movies at 30 fps (frames per second) at resolutions up to 640 x 480 pixels and with an image quality rivaling that of camcorders. Camera shake while filming can be corrected automatically using the movie anti-shake function.*
*Using the movie anti-shake function results in a narrower field of view than that during normal recording.
Face Recognition AF & AE for beautiful one-step portraits
The camera includes Face Recognition AF & AE, which allows you to take bright, beautiful photos with perfectly focused faces free of backlighting shadows. This useful function automatically detects the position of the subject’s face anywhere in the photo frame and adjusts the focus and optimizes the exposure for the detected position.
Auto-tracking AF continuously focuses on a moving subject
The Optio M20’s auto-tracking AF feature continuously focuses on subjects such as kids and pets that move around unpredictably. Since the focus frame automatically follows the movement of the subject inside the photo frame, you can capture those instantaneous photo opportunities.
Easy-to-view LCD Monitor
The Optio M20 comes with a 2.5 inch LCD monitor, which displays subjects’ movement with very little time delay (60 fps). Its easy to view, large monitor and menu display make operation, setting, monitoring, and playback comfortable and easy. An auto LCD dimmer function automatically dims the backlight to preserve battery life and optimize the screen checks indoors and outdoors.
Easy to use 3X optical zoom
The Optio M20 includes a 3X optical zoom lens with a focal length from 38 to 114 mm for 35mm film, which is ideal for a broad spectrum of subjects from landscapes, through sightseeing photographs, to portraits.
SDHC memory card support for greater storage of high-quality images and longer movies
The Optio M20 supports two removable storage media: the conventional SD memory cards and the new SDHC memory cards.*
* SD High Capacity; these memory cards have capacities in excess of 2 GB.
Compatibility with the ImageLink printing system
The Optio M20 is compatible with the ImageLink printing system, which allows wireless connection of a digital camera to ImageLink-compatible printers. By simply placing the Optio M20 on the printer’s dock, the user can take advantage of simple, push-button printing of recorded images, without requiring a personal computer.
Additional features
World time function for 71 cities (28 time zones) worldwide
Calendar display lets you choose photos by date
Mode Palette provides quick access to 15 shooting modes and 13 playback modes
Soft flash function avoids overexposure during close-up flash photography
Macro mode allows close-up photography as near as 5 cm
Digital zooming provides up to 4X magnification
Approximately 21.9 MB of built-in memory
Includes the ACDSee for PENTAX image viewer/image management software
Supports PictBridge, DPOF functions, Exif Print, and PRINT Image Matching III
SD Logo and SDHC Logo are trademarks.
PENTAX, Optio and smc PENTAX are registered trademarks of PENTAX Corporation.
All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
QuickTime and QuickTime logo are trademarks used under license. The QuickTime logo is registered in U.S. and other countries.
This product supports PRINT Image Matching III. PRINT Image Matching enabled digital still cameras, printers and software help photographers to produce images more faithful to their intentions. Some functions are not available on printers that are not PRINT Image Matching III compliant.
Specifications
Type: Compact-type digital still camera with built-in zoom lens, autofocus, auto exposure and auto flash
Effective Pixels: 7.0 megapixels
Image Capture Device: Type – 1/2.5 inch interline transfer CCD with a primary color filter; Total Pixels - 7.18 megapixels; Color Depth - 12 bit x 3 colors; Recorded Pixels - Still: 7M (3072×2304 pixels), 5M (2560×1920 pixels), 4M (2304×1728), 3M (2048×1536), 2M (1600×1200 pixels), 0.8M (1024×768), 0.3M (640×480 pixels); Movie: 640×480, 320×240 at 30fps, 15 fps
Focus System: Type - TTL contrast detection autofocus system; Autofocus – 9-point Multi AF, Spot, Tracking AF; Focusing Range - Auto Focus: Normal - 1.3 ft (0.4m) to Infinity; Macro - 4.0 in (0.1m) at 6.3mm to 2.62 ft (1.0m) at 18.9mm; Super Macro - 1.92 in (0.05m) at 6.3mm to 1.31 ft (0.4m) at 18.9mm
Lens: Type - PENTAX power zoom; Focal Length – 6.3mm – 18.9mm; 35mm Equivalent - 38mm - 114mm; Aperture Range – F3.1 – F5.9; Construction - 6 elements in 5 groups (1 aspherical element); Optical Zoom - 3X; Digital Zoom - 4X; Combined - Approx. 12X
Exposure Control: Light Metering Method - TTL multi segment metering; Sensitivity - Auto, or User select ISO 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 (ISO 1600 only during Blur Reduction Mode); Exposure Control Method - Program AE; Exposure Modes - Green, Program, Picture, Movie, Voice recording; Exposure Compensation - +/-2 EV (1/3 steps); Shutter - Type: Programmed AE electronic lens shutter with CCD electronic shutter; Shutter Speed: Approx. 1/2000 – 4 seconds; White Balance - White Balance Control: TTL Auto, Manual; Available Settings: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten light, Fluorescent light; Flash - Operation Modes: Auto, Flash-off, Flash-on, Red-eye reduction; Effective Range: Approx. 13 ft (4m) (6.3mm at Sensitivity Auto), Approx. 8.2 ft (2.5m) (18.9mm at Sensitivity Auto)
Shooting Specifications: Picture Modes – Auto Picture, Program, Night scene, Landscape, Flower, Portrait, Surf & Snow, Sport, Kids, Pet, Blur Reduction, Food, Frame; Digital Filter - Playback: Black & White, Sepia, Red, Pink, Purple, Blue, Green, Yellow, Soft, Brightness; Drive Modes - Single-shot, Continuous, Self-timer, Photo frame; Movie Mode - Shooting Time: from approx. 1 sec. to memory card capacity
Time: Modes - dd/mm/yy, mm/dd/yy, yy/mm/dd
Image Storage: Storage Media - Approx. 22MB built-in memory, SD memory card removable; File Formats - Still: JPEG (Exif 2.2), DCF 1.1 (Design rule for Camera File system), DPOF 1.0 (Digital Print Order Format), PRINT Image Matching III; Movie: MOV (QuickTime Motion JPEG) approx. 30fps or 15fps with sound; Quality Levels - Best, Better, Good with 128MB SD Card
LCD/Viewfinder: Optical Viewfinder – N/A; LCD Monitor – 2.5 inch, Low reflection TFT color LCD; LCD Coverage – Approx. 100%LCD Resolution - Approx. 115,000 pixels
Playback Specifications: Playback Modes File - Single, Index - Nine image; Magnification – Maximum 8X; LCD Function - Scroll, Image rotation, Slide show, Movie playback (w/ sound), Resize, Trimming, Digital filter, Movie edit, Picture frame, Red-eye removal, Calendar, Image & sound copy; Erase and Image Protect Modes - Single, All
PictBridge: One image printing, All image printing, DPOF auto print, Paper size, Paper type, Paper quality, Border
Language: English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Russian, Swedish, Dutch, Thai, Japanese, Chinese (Traditional, Simple), Korean
Interfaces: Type - AV output terminal, USB terminal; Video Output - Compatible with NTSC and PAL formats (monaural sound)
Power Supply: Power Source – Two AA Batteries (Alkaline or rechargeable NiMH), AC adapter kit (optional) (allows approximately 640 shots* with 2500mAh NiMH, 220 shots* with Alkaline) * According to CIPA-compliant testing (with LCD monitor on and flash used for 50% of the shots)
Physical Specifications: Operating Temperatures - 32 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees to 40 degrees Celsius); Camera Casing - Plastic; Dimensions (W x H x D) - 3.5 x 2.3 x 1.0 inches (89 x 60 x 25mm); Weight – 4.2 oz. (120g) without battery and SD memory card, 5.8 oz. (165g) loaded and ready
Computer System Requirements: Mac Requirements - OS: Mac OS 9.2 or later, standard equipped USB port; PC Requirements - OS: Windows 98, 98SE, Me, 2000, XP Home edition, XP Professional, standard equipped USB port (USB Driver install required for Win 98/98 SE)
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE:
August 22nd, 2006
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