Archive for November, 2007
Nikon Instruments Launches New High Resolution Microscopy Camera in ‘Digital- Sight’…
Reuters
Nikon Instruments Launches New High Resolution Microscopy Camera in ‘Digital-Sight’ Series: DS-Ri1New Camera Represents an Evolution to the DXM1200 Series
MELVILLE, N.Y., Nov. 29 /PRNewswire/ — Nikon Instruments, Inc.
(www.nikoninstruments.com) today unveiled the latest entry in its DigitalSight line of cameras for microscopy, the DS-Ri1 camera, designed for highresolution color documentation applications. It is an evolution to theDXM1200 series of cameras, retaining several of the DXM1200’s key featureswhile adding several improvements in connectivity, color rendition andperformance.
The DS-Ri1 features fast focusing up to 19 fps and is evenfaster with its binning or region of interest modes, and it provides extremelyrapid acquisition in full-frame pixel stepping mode. It has advancedcapabilities that provide for multiple gain states, binning operations andcooling to minus 10 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature. The DS-Ri1 isone of seven camera heads and two controllers for a total of 14 combinationsin the Nikon Digital Sight series, allowing users to choose the camera(s) bestsuited for their applications.
“Nikon’s DS-Ri1 builds upon the DXM tradition of an ultra high qualitydigital camera for advanced imaging and documentation, while moving ahead inproviding simple PC connectivity, functionality and performance,” said StanSchwartz, vice president, Nikon Instruments, Inc.
The DS-Ri1 is the ideal camera for brightfield or cross-over applicationswhere high resolution, great color fidelity and large pixel count images areimportant to an end-user. The DS-Ri1’s native format is 1280×1024 pixels with6.45um pixels. In high resolution pixel-shift mode, the DS-Ri1’s newalgorithms boast a 4076×3116 pixel format, creating effective pixels of 2um,making it ideally suited for low magnifications and enlargements. Because ofthe large native pixel size and supported cooling, the DS-Ri1 can tacklesimple fluorescence imaging and documentation, while the pixel-steppingmechanism allows for huge, high-resolution brightfield images. Additionally,the new DS-Ri1 supports 12 bit per channel output for 36 bit color images.This camera is ideal for low magnification systems like Nikon’s SMZ seriesstereomicroscopes or Nikon’s new AZ100 microscope.
The DS-Ri1 interfaces directly to DS-L2 and DS-U2 controllers, connectingto PCs via USB2 interfaces for simple installation and easy configuration.The DS-Ri1 offers “Scene Mode” support for DS-L2 standalone. Popularized byNikon’s Coolpix camera series, scene modes help set standard camera settingsideal for different types of imaging. On the PC side, the scene mode optionis accessible but can also be disabled for high-bit depth, “raw format”imaging at up to 12 bits per channel.
The DS-Ri1 is fully functional and controlled with Nikon’s industryacclaimed NIS-Elements software through a familiar camera GUI control screenshared by the DS series of cameras, adding powerful, camera-specific controlsfor the DS-Ri1.
About Nikon Instruments Inc.
Nikon Instruments Inc. is a global leader in the development of advancedoptical technology. Its product line includes microscopy equipment, digitalimaging, precision measuring and semiconductor wafer-handling equipment. Nikonis committed to providing technologically advanced instruments that offeroptimal versatility, performance and productivity. Nikon combines state-of-the-art capabilities with innovative designs to produce optically superior,ergonomically friendly products for cutting-edge scientific research, medicaland industrial applications. For more information visit the Nikon website atwww.nikoninstruments.com. Product-related inquiries can be directed to NikonInstruments at 800-52-NIKON.SOURCE Nikon Instruments, Inc.Beth Starkin of Peppercom, +1-212-931-6108, bstarkin@peppercom.com, for NikonInstruments, Inc.
November 30th, 2007
Canon A720 IS Digital Camera
ABC News
Digital cameras, with light sensors the size of your pinky nail, have spurred the phenomenon of camera as fashion item. Many manufacturers — Canon included — are churning out pocket-size cameras in designer colors, with Wi-Fi connectivity, big screens for showing pictures to your friends.
The pictures from these cameras, frankly, often stink. But their buyers don’t terribly mind. They’re looking for the snapshot they can post on Facebook or MySpace.
So, what do you do if you don’t have the four-digit budget for a really serious camera with interchangeable lenses but you still want to take decent photos — you know, real pictures? That’s where Canon’s A Series comes in.
The A720 IS is a case in point: 8 megapixels, a 6x zoom lens with macro capability, image stabilization, face detection, and it lets you override the automatic settings when you want.
It does not have a built-in mp3 player, cell phone, address book, Web browser, or key chain. It comes in silver. It’s designed for taking pictures.
And they’re not bad. Canon is one of the holdouts for an optical viewfinder, useful if you want to hold the camera steady against your forehead, or not have to squint at the LCD screen in bright sunlight.
The camera has a hand grip on the right side and cleverly runs on AA batteries. If you’re far from home and forgot to recharge, you can run into any drugstore for replacements.
Other models in the A series — the A650, 640 and 630, for instance &#`151; have a wonderful feature, which is gradually disappearing: the LCD screen is mounted so it can tilt and swivel. Want to take a shot of your cat? Bend down, twist the screen upward and you can shoot at cat’s-eye level — for a much more interesting picture.
One last feature: The A Series is for the budget-minded. Street price is around $200, and other models can be had for less.
November 29th, 2007
Digital Camera Tracker Unveils New Review Temperature Tool to Benefit Consumers
PR-USA.net (press release), Bulgaria
Digital Camera Tracker, a popular online site that consolidates digital camera reviews (http://www.digitalcameratracker.com) for consumers, has unveiled a new “Review Temperature” tool that allows consumers to quickly review all available comparisons and ratings of individual cameras.
“Consumers doing research on digital cameras can spend hours trying to figure out how reviewers actually feel about a particular camera,” said company president Michael Huddleston. “Digital camera reviews can get pretty technical.
Our proprietary Review Temperature tool gives consumers what they want at a glance.”
The Review Temperature tool provides a dynamic summary of multiple camera reviews in a graphic format. Digital Camera Tracker staff analyze every review they publish, and assigns a numeric score based on multiple factors including individual assessment of the reviewers subjective view. The Review Temperature score is a quick visual summary of multiple reviews that may be long, complex and difficult for an average consumer to understand.
“Human review creates a real competitive advantage for us,” said Huddleston. “The most exciting new sites on the Internet are creating the right blend of great software and individual personal review. Because we have human reviewers analyzing every digital camera review (http://www.digitalcameratracker.com) we publish, our Review Temperature tool can’t be matched by purely automated sites.”
Once the Review Temperature has been assigned, Digital Camera Tracker’s review pages are then optimized for consumer convenience, providing a single source for current reviews, technical specifications, owners’ manuals and test photos taken with the camera.
About Digital Camera Tracker:
Digital Camera Tracker has provided online digital camera reviews, comparisons and ratings since 2005. This site and its “Digital Camera University” are recognized as a leading Internet resource for well-researched digital camera information for consumers.
For more information, please visit the company’s Web site at http://www.digitalcameratracker.com/.
November 28th, 2007
benq launches world’s slimmest touch screen model 8.0 mp digital camera in the uae
Al-Bawaba, Jordan
benq launches world’s slimmest touch screen model 8.0 mp digital camera in the uae
Super slim T800 model boasts 3-inch touch screen LCD display
Global networked digital lifestyle solutions leader, BenQ, has enhanced its digital imaging range with the debut of its T800 model - the world’s slimmest touch screen model digital camera and an upgrade to its award-winning predecessor, the T700 - in the UAE.
Sporting a super slim 14.9mm exterior, the 8 mega-pixel T800 model boasts a 3-inch touch screen display as well as a PENTAX optical lens. The camera is available in two colours – red and black – and comes equipped with BenQ’s new ‘Face Tracking’ function that automatically detects nine human faces and ensures people are perfectly presented in both colour tone and clarity.
“A surge in demand for hi-tech digital cameras in trendy designs has led to a surge in sales for our lifestyle imaging range,” said Manish Bakshi, General Manager, BenQ, Middle East & Africa.
“To keep up with demand, we have introduced our T800 model which will raise standards in imaging design and technology.”
The T800 is also equipped with the Z-lighting in-camera photo-editing function, which adjusts the brightness of a subject that is underexposed due to excessive backlighting or insufficient flash illumination.
This digital camera also comes packed with BenQ’s Super Shake Free system that includes a high light sensitivity portrait mode of ISO 2000 and a high setting of ISO 6400 for movie mode shooting.
Like its predecessor the T700, the T800’s 3-inch touch screen LCD monitor allows users to personalise photos by adding various stamps or frames, write memos and activate camera functions.
“BenQ has always been at the forefront of introducing innovative digital technologies and we are confident our T800 will become a popular model among style-conscious photography enthusiasts – both amateur and professional,” said Bakshi.
The T800 includes PictBridge function, expandable SD memory of up to 4GB and comprises 12 different shoot modes for a variety of shooting options.
© 2007 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
November 27th, 2007
PowerShot A720 IS Digital Camera
CameraTown.Com (press release), NH
Description:
The PowerShot A720 IS is the quintessential A Series camera in a popular line that matches high-end image quality with fun, easy-to-use features that deliver excellent cost performance. Top-notch specifications include 8.0 megapixel resolution and a long 6x optical zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer Technology for sharp images throughout the zoom range. Canon’s DIGIC III Image Processor offers advanced Face Detection Technology and Red-eye Correction for fantastic images. Even expand your creative possibilities with wide-angle and telephoto converter lenses.
8.0 Megapixel Resolution
Top-notch core specifications allow the PowerShot A720 IS to produce a level of image quality that’s fully competitive with that of much higher-end cameras. A full 8.0 megapixels of resolution ensure rich depth and detail, and let you enlarge and crop images freely.
Canon 6x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilization
The camera is equipped with a genuine Canon 6x optical zoom to get you up close when it counts. Canon’s sophisticated Optical Image Stabilizer Technology keeps your shots blur-free, even in low light and at the long end of the zoom range. Miniature gyroscopic sensors detect motion, then send a corrective signal, effectively reducing camera shake.
DIGIC III Image Processor
With DIGIC III, your images boast superior quality, the camera operates at top efficiency and battery life is enhanced. What’s more, DIGIC III enables Canon’s Face Detection Technology and Red-eye Correction to give you better, more true-to-life people shots. Simply press the Shutter Button halfway down, and the camera automatically pinpoints the faces in the scene and chooses the ideal focus point. The camera controls exposure settings and flash to keep every face looking bright and natural. Red eyes can be corrected during playback.
High Sensitivity
The PowerShot A720 IS features ISO 1600 and High ISO Auto settings that reduce the effects of camera shake and sharpen subjects in low-light situations, giving you greater shooting flexibility.
Red-Eye Correction
Red-eye Correction detects and corrects red-eye during playback. In unusual cases where red-eye is not automatically detected, it can easily be corrected manually during playback mode.
Easy to use Mode Dial
With a simple Mode Dial, the PowerShot A720 IS makes it easy to access the features of the camera you’ll use most. Select a scene mode, and the camera automatically sets shooting parameters to get you the best possible shot in that situation. You can also access Stitch Assist, Auto, Movie and Manual modes from the Mode Dial. And the convenience of using AA-size batteries, no special power adapters or chargers are needed wherever you go.
With 19 Shooting Modes including 7 Special Scene Modes, you’re ready for whatever shot comes your way.
Compatible with a Wide-Range of Accessories
The PowerShot A720 IS is compatible with many of shooting accessories such as wide and tele converter lenses, High-Power Flash designed for all of the PowerShot models. Also a waterproof case is available for your underwater shooting.
The PowerShot A720 IS’s Print/Share button makes direct printing easier than ever. Simply connect the A720 IS to a Canon CP, SELPHY or PIXMA Photo Printer or any PictBridge compatible photo printer, press the lighted Print/Share button and print! Also use the Print/Share button to transfer images to a computer (Windows® and Macintosh®).
November 26th, 2007
BenQ Launches World’s Slimmest Touch screen Model 8.0 MP Digital Camera in the UAE
Al-Bawaba, Jordan
BenQ Launches World’s Slimmest Touch screen Model 8.0 MP Digital Camera in the UAE
Sporting a super slim 14.9mm exterior, the 8 mega-pixel T800 model boasts a 3-inch touch screen display as well as a PENTAX optical lens. The camera is available in four colours – red and black – and comes equipped with BenQ’s new ‘Face Tracking’ function that automatically detects nine human faces and ensures people are perfectly presented in both colour tone and clarity.
“A surge in demand for hi-tech digital cameras in trendy designs has led to a surge in sales for our lifestyle imaging range,” said Manish Bakshi, General Manager, BenQ, Middle East & Africa.
“To keep up with demand, we have introduced our T800 model which will raise standards in imaging design and technology.”
The T800 is also equipped with the Z-lighting in-camera photo-editing function, which adjusts the brightness of a subject that is underexposed due to excessive backlighting or insufficient flash illumination.
This digital camera also comes packed with BenQ’s Super Shake Free system that includes a high light sensitivity portrait mode of ISO 2000 and a high setting of ISO 6400 for movie mode shooting.
Like its predecessor the T700, the T800’s 3-inch touch screen LCD monitor allows users to personalise photos by adding various stamps or frames, write memos and activate camera functions.
“BenQ has always been at the forefront of introducing innovative digital technologies and we are confident our T800 will become a popular model among style-conscious photography enthusiasts – both amateur and professional,” said Bakshi.
The T800 includes PictBridge function, expandable SD memory of up to 4GB and comprises 12 different shoot modes for a variety of shooting options.
About BenQ Corporation
BenQ Corporation consists of three main business groups — Digital Media Business Group, Integrated Manufacturing Service Business Group and Mobile Communications Business Group. These three business groups encompass a broad range of products and each possesses a focus on providing consumer-oriented solutions designed for the digital lifestyle. 2005 revenues for BenQ Corporation exceeded US$5.07 billion dollars.
About BenQ Group
The BenQ Group is currently comprised of ten companies that operate independently while sharing resources and leveraging synergies among them. The BenQ Group companies include BenQ Corporation, AU Optronics Corporation, Darfon Electronics Corporation, Daxon Technology Inc., BenQ Guru Software Co., BenQ Hospital, Darwin Precisions, Ltd, Raydium Semiconductor Corporation, Cando Corporation and Wellypower Co., Ltd. 2005 revenues for BenQ Group exceeded US$12.36 billion dollars.
© 2007 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
November 26th, 2007
Medium format digital camera platform
LetsGoDigital, Netherlands
Medium format digital camera platform : Phase One A/S, a leading provider of digital image capture and work flow management technology and Mamiya Digital Imaging Co., Ltd. announced a strategic alliance to develop innovative, open platform-based medium format digital camera systems and solutions for professional photographers. The alliance builds on both Mamiya and Phase One’s medium format technology expertise and deep understanding of the uncompromising demands of the modern professional photography market. The agreement includes technology-sharing and intellectual property assets as well as sales and marketing co-operation. The first new camera system will be introduced in the first quarter of 2008.
Equipping photographers
“Phase One and Mamiya together are committed to equipping photographers with what they need to surpass even their most passionate visions and enjoy the process,” said Henrik Håkonsson, CEO of Phase One. “Phase One is committed to open modular systems thus supporting photographers’ full freedom of choice.”
Medium format digital camera platform
“With this alliance, Mamiya and Phase One together are ushering in a new chapter for photographers,” said Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi, CEO of Mamiya Digital Imaging. “As a team, we have access to all the software and hardware competences which are needed to further develop unique digital camera solutions in the coming years, including new feature combinations not in the market today.”
Mamiya Digital Imaging
Mamiya Digital Imaging is the digital successor to the reputable Mamiya brand, an innovative company fresh with enthusiasm and dedicated to continuing a legacy of excellence. Mamiya has consistently been a fore-runner in medium format camera design, and Mamiya lenses, manufactured following a tradition of precision and quality, are celebrated world-wide. For the Professional Photographer, it is the ultimate brand in photographic equipment.
About Phase One
Phase One is a leading provider of digital image capture and work flow management technology. Phase One P+ Series digital backs open new possibilities, putting the focus back on the moment of capture. Phase One Capture One software helps streamline the capture and post-production process. Supporting DSLR, medium- and large-format photographic equipment, Phase One products are renowned for their superior quality, flexibility and speed - enabling pro photographers to realize their most subtle and most complex visions without compromise.
November 23rd, 2007
Digital Camera Sales Remain Brisk
AHN
Rochelle Montano - AHN News Writer
Los Angeles, CA (AHN) - Digital Camera sales are brisk in 2007.
Two years ago, camera sales were expected to hit a peak and begin falling. This year, sales are expected to grow about 16 percent.
Analyst Chris Chute of research firm IDC, says he expects the industry to expand by 8 percent next year. “We really thought the growth had ended. People are either upgrading their cameras now, because prices are so low, or replacing dead models.”
From 2006, 105 million cameras were delivered to stores. This year, the volume will increase to about 122 million cameras.
Camera manufacturers have already found strategies to allure buyers with tools such as image stabilization, first found in video cameras. In the U.S., according to Photo Marketing Association “about 65 percent of households own at least one digital camera.
Digital Single Lens Reflex or known as SLR is one of the fastest- growing areas in camera sales. Which lets shutterbugs use interchangeable lenses for wide-angle and also for close- up shots.
SLR used to start around $1,000 but prices have become much competitive. The Pentax K100D digital SLR is now available for $349 (with a $100 rebate) at some aggressive discounters online.
November 22nd, 2007
Holiday Gift Idea: Finding the Perfect Digital Camera
Cleveland Leader, OH
Digital cameras make great gifts all year round, and that includes the upcoming holiday season. This past Mother’s Day, digital cameras were at the top of mom’s lists around the world, so if you didn’t get her one then, why not now? It’s the perfect gift for family and friends they don’t yet have one, or those who are looking for an upgrade.
So how do you pick out the perfect digital camera? The choices can be overwhelming, so your best bet is to first decide what kind of budget you’re working with it. Once you’ve got that figured out, you’ll want to hunt down some product reviews and overviews.
Should you get the Canon PowerShot G9, or would you rather Canon PowerShot S5 IS? What’s the difference? How many megapixels do you really need? All those questions, and more, can be found in reviews.
Another thing to keep in mind is the age of the recipient. What might be appropriate for an adult, might not work out as well for a kid. If you’re buying for someone younger, check out the colorful options - those always go over well. And if you’re buying for a child, you’ll probably want something more rugged, and not quite as delicate or expensive. After all, kids can be rough.
After you’ve done your research and found the model you’re interested in buying, check with several different retailers before you plunk down the cash and buy it. Often times, prices vary from retailer to retailer, and a little extra shopping around can save you a few bucks.
One last thing to consider when you’re buying a camera is whether or not it comes pre-packaged with memory storage. If it doesn’t, which is often the case, you’ll want to pick up the appropriate type of memory for the camera, such as mini-SD, micro-SD, SD, Memory Sticks, and more.
Other cute accessories, such as cases and batteries can be added with the camera for an even better gift.
November 21st, 2007
Digital camera report: Samsung NV20
By Arnold Zafra
TECH.BLORGE.com, Australia
The Samsung NV20 is a point-and-shoot digital camera designed for experienced digital camera owner looking for a step up model that breaks free of the ‘me-too’ look and feel that many manufacturers often follow.
Priced at US$316 the NV20 brings Smart Touch Interface for accessing menu functions and reviewing images with an easy intuitive control.
According to Samsung, the NV20 is a sleek, elegantly designed advanced digital camera equipped with innovative Smart Touch interface that have become the hallmarks of the NV Series, and set the camera family apart from competitive offerings in the market.
Key features include:
12.1 Megapixels, 1/1.72″CCD
Macro allows photography from 4cm ~ 80cm, 50cm ~ 80cm
Schneider optics with a 3x optical zoom
Focal length Schneider Lens f = 7.3 ~ 21.9mm (35mm film equivalent : 34 ~ 102mm)
80-3200 ISO (sensitivity)
2.5″ color TFT LCD (230,000 pixel)
Takes SD, SDHC, MMC Plus MEDIA
Black metal body
151.7g (without batteries and card)
Dimensions of 96.5 mm x 60 mm x 18.6 mm (W x H x D)
Auto Contrast Balance function compensates brightness of objects automatically even in harsh light environment, fast advance shake reduction prevents degradation of image clarity and color.
What the manufacturer says:
“The NV20 represents the next generation of Samsung’s award-winning NV series of digital cameras. This is not your typical family of point-and-shoot digital cameras. At Samsung, we take great pride in the NV series because of the firsts that it brings to market, including our revolutionary Smart Touch interface, as well as the WOW factor that makes the cameras stand out from the crowd.
What punters are saying:
“Sadly, although the NV20 offers a truly unique user experience, the images that it produces don’t match the high quality of the rest of the camera.”-Mark Goldstein
“Overall we weren’t that impressed by the NV20, it might look good, but in use it’s awkward, gimmicky and worse of all the images aren’t great.”-Stuart Miles
“We really believe that the Samsung NV20 is a very interesting camera and we encourage anyone interested in a great camera to buy this wonderful camera.”-DOCameras.com
Our comment:
There’s no doubt that Samsung may have produced a powerful device on this one. But it may have overlooked one important element of a digital camera in its desire to come up with a sleek looking and powerful point-and-shoot camera – image quality. If looks and power is what you look for when buying a digital camera, you may very well be satisfied with the NV20, otherwise you may want to try out other digital camera in the same line as the Samsung NV20.
November 20th, 2007
Previous Posts