Medium format film scanner from Reflecta

Official Press Release
Tuesday October 11, 2011

New Reflecta Midformat Scan MF5000

Photographers can now digitise positive and negative medium format films quickly, easily and to a professional quality high resolution thanks to the introduction of the new Reflecta Midformat Scan MF5000.

The scanner, available now through Kenro, is described as a "state-of-the-art CCD scanner with fast image processing" and features a 3-line CCD image sensor allowing for scans of 3200 x 3200 dpi optical resolution and 3.6 Dmax optical density.

The Midformat Scan MF5000's scan speed: 
A colour scan at 3200 dpi and 24 bit colour depth takes only 200 seconds, very fast for a colour CCD scanner  means that top quality scanning is no longer the time consuming exercise it used to be, while the Magic Touch feature, which automatically removes dust and scratches via an infrared sensor, helps ensure that the final scan is perfect first time.

Mains powered, the scanner is connected via USB 2.0 to a computer (either MAC or PC). It weighs around 5.6kg and measures 320mm x 165mm x 160mm and will scan the whole range of 120 and 220 films, including 6x4.5, 6x6, 6x7, 6x8, 6x9 and 6x12cm formats. Holders for four framed slides up to 3.2mm thickness, film strips with up to six frames and for one or two medium format film frames are included.

Kenro's managing director, Paul Kench made this comment on the release: "The MF5000 enables photographers to produce professional quality scans time-after-time, quickly and simply. It's the perfect piece of kit for a serious photographer who wants to digitise their archive of medium format films."

Technical data:
Optical resolution: 3200 dpi
Scanning speed: 3200 dpi, 24 Bit = 200 Sec.
Colour depth: 48 Bit
Contrast: >3,6 Dmax
Image sensor: 3-line –CCD-Sensor
Lamp: whit LEDs and infrared LEDs
Scanning area -max: 24.3 x 36.5mm / 118 x 56.9mm
PC interface: USB 2.0
MAGIC TOUCH Technology

The Midformat Scan MF5000 comes complete with power adapter, Cyberview X scan software, Adobe Photoshop Elements 9, holder for four framed slides, holder for film strips with up to six frames, medium format holder and full user instructions.

The scanner is available now with an RRP of £2,250. For details of your nearest stockist please visit www.kenro.co.uk - alternatively call Kenro's head office on 01793 615836 for further information.


ENDS


Kenro Ltd
Greenbridge Road
Swindon
SN3 3LH
Tel: 01793 615836
Fax: 01793 530108
E-mail: sales@kenro.co.uk
Web: www.kenro.co.uk

Note: This news release is issued by Newsfeed UK on behalf of the above client.


Visitors, users and viewers of the foregoing content may copy and re-use it in other internet content sites on condition the source of all material so used is acknowledged with the attachment of the following.
www.ajaxnetphoto.blogspot.com 2011.
www.ajaxnetphoto.com 2011.
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The products and companies named in this website content are trademarks , registered trademarks or servicemarks of their respective owners or licensed user.

RICOH TO GO! - THE RISE AND RISE OF THE CULT - GR IV ANNOUNCED

September15, 2011

Ricoh announces the GR DIGITAL IV

The new Ricoh GR IV

A digital camera offering enhanced Quick Shooting capability and 
image quality with a Hybrid AF System and GR ENGINE IV

Tokyo, Japan, September 15, 2011—Ricoh Co., Ltd. (President and CEO: Shiro Kondo) today announces the development and release of the GR DIGITAL IV digital camera, the successor model to the GR DIGITAL III, which offers enhanced Quick Shooting capability and image quality. 

The GR DIGITAL III (released in August 2009) was a compact digital camera with high image quality that came with a 28mm/F1.9 GR Lens, the GR ENGINE III, and a high-sensitivity CCD that continued the evolution of the concepts originally introduced in the first GR DIGITAL model (released in October 2005). In the two years since its release, it has been enthusiastically received by a broad range of customers including professional and amateur photographers.

The new GR DIGITAL IV, featuring a new image engine and a refined optical filter, exceeds the GR DIGITAL III and achieves the highest level of image quality in the history of the GR series. 

Rear of the new GR IV

Additionally, for the advancement of the Quick Shooting capabilities required to make sure you never miss a shot when out shooting, Ricoh has introduced a Hybrid AF System and an Image-sensor-shift Image Stabilization Function, which makes use of Ricoh's independently developed external AF sensor, and a 3-inch, approximately 1.23 million-dot VGA LCD monitor for heightened outdoor visibility. The addition of an electronic level that can detect inclination in the tilt direction, as well as the conventional horizontal direction also improves operability. Moreover, the inclusion of Dynamic Range Compensation makes it possible to shoot subjects in backlit or high-contrast scenes in the way the eye sees them, and Interval Composite, which can combine images shot at a certain shooting interval, advances the camera's expressive capabilities.

Ricoh will also continue to provide the highly praised function-expansion firmware.

Pricing:

GR Digital IV Black   £499.99  
GR Digital IV White   £499.99  
Hand Strap GS2      £17.90
Metal Lens Cap GL1   £17.90


Main Features of the GR DIGITAL IV

Improved AF speed and accuracy due to the introduction of the Hybrid AF system

The camera comes newly equipped with Ricoh's independently developed external AF sensor, which has a maximum of 190 AF points. Through the Hybrid AF System, which is used in parallel with the conventional CCD contrast AF, Ricoh has realized an AF focusing time as short as 0.2 seconds, as much as half that of the GR DIGITAL III.

 Also, algorithm refinements have led to improvements in the AF speed for macro shots that are taken using only the CCD contrast AF method for a maximum reduction of half the time of the previous model. 


In shooting with a single press of the shutter-release button, the high focusing accuracy required for snapshot shooting has been added to the camera's Quick Shooting capabilities by performing the metering with only the external AF sensor. The metering information from the external AF sensor can be displayed on the LCD monitor as necessary. 


Even higher image quality achieved

Through refinements to the optical filter and optimization of the image processing from the previous model, the GR DIGITAL III, the SFR* characteristics have been improved. 

With the new image processing engine, the GR ENGINE IV, color reproduction enhancement and color noise reductions are achieved when taking high-sensitivity photographs. 

Ricoh's signature 28mm/F1.9 GR lens demonstrates its high resolution while suppressing chromatic aberration and distortion. The approximately 10 million-pixel, 1/1.7-inch CCD shows off its high-sensitivity characteristics. These are the elements through which the GR DIGITAL IV achieves the highest image quality in GR DIGITAL history.  

*Spatial Frequency Response (SFR): One of the indicators of a digital camera's resolution characteristics, including everything from the optical system to the image processing. 

Comes with the first image-sensor shift image stabilization function in the GR DIGITAL series
With the image-sensor shift image stabilization function, the GR DIGITAL IV achieves a stabilization effect equivalent to a shutter speed increase of a maximum of 3.2 stops*, which combined with the fast F1.9 GR lens further increases the camera's ability to capture dark scenes.

*Measured using RICOH measurement methods.

Introduction of a new, high-brightness LCD monitor and the addition of an automatic brightness adjustment function
Through the introduction of the new 3-inch, approximately 1.23 million-dot VGA LCD monitor, which adds white pixels to the RGB ones, the GR DIGITAL IV secures a maximum brightness of approximately 1.7 times that of the GR DIGITAL III, improving its visibility when outdoors.
A function in which the camera automatically adjusts the luminance to match the brightness of the subject has been added, which minimizes decreases in visibility due to changes in the shooting environment. 

Shooting functions that heighten the photographer's expressive ability and enhanced scene modes
Comes with dynamic range compensation to minimize the effects of blown highlights in bright areas and crushed blacks in dark ones. For backlit or high-contrast scenes where exposure compensation alone is not enough, compensation is performed for each area, enabling the photographer to take pictures at a brightness that closely matches how the subject looked.
The Auto Bracket function has been enhanced. In addition to the conventional Exposure and White Balance, Contrast Bracket Setting and Dynamic Range Compensation bracketing have been newly added, of which any two can be selected for addition to the image settings to record a sequence of three shots with Image Setting Bracket.
Comes with an Interval Composite mode that will replace and combine only the high-brightness pixel data in images of the night sky taken at fixed intervals. This makes it possible to shoot distinctive landscape pictures that show the trails of light left by the stars.
Positive Film and Bleach Bypass, which lowers saturation and increases contrast, have been added to the image settings. Along with settings like the existing High Contrast B&W and Cross Process, these can be used in each of the shooting modes (Auto/P/A/S/M).
Multiple exposure shooting, which makes it possible to shoot up to five overlapping shots, and bulb exposure functions have also been included.

Already high operability heightened even further
Included since the GR DIGITAL II, the electronic level function has been enhanced. Now it can detect inclination in not only the horizontal direction, but also the tilt direction as well.
The function combinations that can be used with the Fn1/Fn2 buttons have been expanded to four settings that can be registered with the Fn Button Pair Setting. Because the user can switch between functions registered in the Fn Button Pair Setting without going into the menu screens, they serve as an easy shortcut, making it possible to change functions in an instant to match the scene being shot.
The My Settings function, which enables the user to register their preferred camera settings, have been expanded from types to 12 types. Better still, because the settings can be registered on an SD card, users can share their favorite settings amongst themselves.
Includes a function for working with Eye-Fi cards. Images taken can be wirelessly transferred to a computer or uploaded to a photo-sharing site. When these functions are in use, the transmission information will be displayed on the shooting and playback screens.


An even broader range of expandability with new options
A genuine leather hand strap for excellent portability and handling and a metal lens cap that works with the lock function of the power button will be available as new options.


Implementation of function expansions through firmware
The provision of function-expansion firmware, which has been highly praised from the GR DIGITAL to the GR DIGITAL III models, will continue with the GR DIGITAL IV. By updating the firmware, the camera can always use the latest functions.

Customize service

For those who purchase the GR Digital IV, the following customizing services are available.
Grip replacement service
You can change the grip to one of your own choosing by paying a fee; options include wood grain, carbon, and leather-styled grips (all synthetic resin products).
*This service is only available in some areas, with a limited supply of replacement grips.
Information on when the service will become available as well as the countries and regions where it will be available will be announced on Ricoh’s web site.


   Product             Model
・Hood and adapter        GH-2
・Wide conversion lens         GW-2 *2
・External TTL flash        GF-1
・External viewfinder        GV-1
・External mini viewfinder        GV-2
・Cable switch            CA-2 *1
・Soft case             GC-3
・Soft case (GV-2 compatible)    GC-4
・Neck strap (GR DIGITAL logo)    GS-1
・Neck strap (Ricoh logo)        ST-2
・AC adapter            AC-4c
・Rechargeable battery        DB-65
・Battery charger            BJ-6
・Metal lens cap
(with function for locking the power button)　 GL-1*1,3
・Hand strap (genuine leather, with GR logo)　　GS-2*1
・HDMI cable            　　HC-1
GR DIGITAL/GR DIGITAL II options GH-1, GW-1, GT-1, GC-1, and GC-2 cannot be used.
*1　Newly introduced option.
*2　Hood and adapter is required when using wide conversion lens.
When the wide-angle conversion lens is mounted, only the CCD contrast AF method will be used.
*3  When the metal lens cap is mounted, the GC-3/GC-4 cannot be used.


GR DIGITAL IV – Major Specifications
No. of Effective Pixels (Camera):
Approximately 10.00 million pixels

Image Sensor:
1/1.7-inch CCD (total pixels: approx. 10.40 million pixels)
Lens:
Focal length: f=6.0 mm (equivalent to 28 mm for 35 mm film cameras) 
F-aperture: F1.9 – F9 (exposure control with both aperture and ND filter when F8.0-F11 displays in auto shooting mode)
Shooting Distance (from the front of the lens): Approx. 30 cm - infinity; Macro (from the front of the lens): Approx. 1 cm – infinity
Lens Construction: 8 elements in 6 groups (aspheric lens: 2 elements and 2 surfaces)

Digital Zoom Magnification:
Digital Zoom: Approx. 4.0x; Auto Resize Zoom: Approx. 5.7x (VGA images)
Focus Mode:
Multi AF (Hybrid AF) / Spot AF (Hybrid AF) /Subj. Tracking/ Manual Focus / Snap / Infinity (Focus lock and AF auxiliary light available. For Multi AF and Spot AF, full-press snap and pre-AF are possible.)
Blur reduction：
Image sensor shift-type image stabilization function
Shutter Speed: *1
Still image: Bulb, Time ,180, 120, 60, 30, 15, 13, 10, 8, 6, 5, 4, 3.2, 2.5, 2, 1.6, 1.3, 1 - 1/2000 sec. (maximum and minimum shutter speeds vary depending on shooting mode and flash mode)
Movie: 1/30 - 1/2000 sec.

Continuous shooting:
Continuous shooting speed*11     Approximately 1.54 frames/second
Maximum continuous shots    999

Exposure Control:
Exposure Metering Mode: Multi (256 segments), Centre Weighted Light Metering, Spot Metering (TTL-CCD metering method, AE lock possible) 
Exposure Modes: Program shift AE/Aperture priority AE/ Manual Exposure /Shutter priority AE 
Exposure Compensation: Manual Exposure Compensation +/-2.0EV (1/3EV Steps), Auto Bracket Function (-0.5EV, ±0, +0.5EV / -0.3EV, ±0, +0.3EV)

ISO Sensitivity (Standard Output Sensitivity):
AUTO, AUTO-HI, ISO80 – 3200 (1EV, 1/3EV, selectable steps)
White Balance Mode:
AUTO / Multi-Pattern AUTO / Outdoors / Cloudy / Incandescent / Fluorescent 1 / Fluorescent 2 / Manual / Detail, White Balance Bracket Function
Flash:
Built-in flash mode: Flash On, Auto, Red-eye-Reduction, Flash On, Slow Synchro, Manual Flash, Flash Off 
Built-in flash range: Approx. 20 cm - 3.0 m (ISO Auto)
Flash compensation: +/-2.0EV (1/3EV Steps)
Charging time*12: Approximately 5 seconds
Monitor:
3.0-inch Transparent LCD (approx. 1,230,000 dots)
Shooting Mode:
Auto Shooting Mode / Program Shift Mode / Aperture Priority Mode / Shutter Speed Priority Mode / Manual Exposure Mode / Scene Modes (Dynamic Range / Movie / Skew Correction / Interval Composite) / My Settings Mode
Image settings:
Vivid, Standard, Setting1/Setting2, B&W, B&W (TE), High Contrast B&W, Cross Process, Positive Film, Bleach Bypass

Picture Quality Mode: *2
F (Fine) / N (Normal) / RAW (DNG file format) *3
No. of Pixels Recorded:
Still image: 3648×2736, 3648×2432, 2736×2736, 3648×2048, 3264×2448, 2592×1944, 2048×1536, 1280×960, 640×480

Movie: 640x480, 320x240

Recording Media:
SD memory card, SDHC memory card, Internal memory (approx. 40MB)
Eye-Fi cards (X2 series) can be used
Storage Capacity (Pictures/Time):*4 (internal memory approx.40MB)
Still image: 3648×2736 (RAW: 2, F: 10, N: 17) / 3648×2432 (RAW: 2, F: 11, N: 19) / 2736×2736 (RAW: 2, F: 13, N: 23) / 3648×2048 (RAW: 2, F: 13, N: 23 ) /3264×2448 (F: 12) / 2592×1944 (F: 15) / 2048×1536 (F: 24) / 1280×960 (F:43) / 640×480 (F: 158)
Movie*5: 640×480: 30 frames/sec. (22 sec.), 640×480: 15 frames/sec. (43 sec.), 320×240: 30 frames/sec. (54 sec.), 320×240: 15 frames/sec. (1 min. 38 sec.)

Recording File Format:
Still Image: JPEG (Exif ver. 2.3) *6 , RAW (DNG)
Movie: AVI (Open DML Motion JPEG Format compliant)
Compression method: JPEG Baseline method compliant (still images, movies)

Other Major Shooting Functions:
Continuous / AF-Cont / S-Cont / M-Cont / Self-Timer (operation time: approx. 2 sec. / custom) / Interval Shooting (shooting interval: 5 sec. to 1 hour, in 5-second increments)*7 / Image Setting Bracket / Dynamic Range Compensation Bracketing / Contrast Bracketing / Color Space Setting / AE/AF Target Movement / Camera Shake Correction / Dynamic Range Compensation / Multiple Exposure Shooting / Noise Reduction / Histogram / Grid Guide / Depth of Field / Electronic Level / Hot Shoe
Other Major Playback Functions:
Auto Rotate / Grid View / Enlarged Display (maximum 16x) / Slideshow / Resize / Trim / DPOF settings
Interface:
USB and AV output terminal: USB 2.0 compliant, mass storage compliant*8 / HDMI micro output terminal: Type D
Video Signal Format:
NTSC, PAL switchable
Power Supply:
Rechargeable Battery: DB-65 (3.6V) x1, AAA Dry Alkaline Battery x2, AAA Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery x 2, AC adapter (AC-4c option) 3.8V
Battery Consumption: *9
Based on CIPA Standard: Using the DB-65, approx. 390 pictures / Using AAA Dry Alkaline Battery x2, approx. 30 pictures*10
External Dimensions:
108.6 mm (W) x 59.8 mm (H) x 32.5mm (D) (CIPA-conformant)
Weight:
Approx. 190 g (excluding battery, SD memory card, strap), Accessories approx. 30 g (battery, strap)
Operating Temperature Range:
0ºC-40ºC
*1. Shutter speed upper and lower limits vary depending on Shooting Mode and Flash Mode. 
*2. The picture quality modes which can be set vary depending on the image size.
*3. The DNG file format is a RAW image file format and is the standard format of Adobe Systems.
*4. Estimated number of still images it is possible to record and estimated amount of movie recording time.
*5. The maximum length for one instance of movie recording is 29 minutes or the file size upper limit of 4GB.
*6. Compatible with DCF and DPOF. DCF is the abbreviation of the JEITA standard “Design rule for Camera
File system.” (Full compatibility with other devices is not guaranteed.)
*7. With flash off.
*8. Mass storage driver is compatible with Windows (R) XP, Windows Vista(R), Windows(R) 7; Mac OS X 10.4 -10.6.7.
*9. Shooting capacity was measured using CIPA-standard parameters. This is only an estimate, and
performance may vary according to usage conditions.
*10. Using Panasonic AAA alkaline batteries.
*11. Measurement values obtained under Ricoh measurement conditions using Panasonic Pro High Speed 2G Class 6 cards. Results may differ depending on the speed and/or number of continuous shots, shooting conditions, and recording media, or on the condition of the recording media.
*12. When using rechargeable batteries

・Windows and Windows Vista are registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S.A. and other countries.
・Mac OS is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries.
・Eye-Fi, Eye-Fi connected, and the Eye-Fi logo are registered trademarks of Eye-Fi Japan Co., Ltd.

September 15, 2011

GR DIGITAL IV Limited Edition Color Model

 
Announcing the GR DIGITAL White Edition

White Limited Edition Ricoh GR IV - 10,000 units worldwide

Tokyo, Japan, September 15, 2011—Ricoh Co., Ltd (President and CEO: Shiro Kondo) today announces the release of a limited-edition color model, the GR DIGITAL IV White Edition, along with the announcement of the new GR DIGITAL IV. The details are as follows:

Product Name
GR DIGITAL IV White Edition
Limited sales volume
10,000 units worldwide
*     Accessories include a rechargeable battery, a battery charger, a USB cable, a genuine leather hand strap, a hand strap, and a metal lens cap.

The GR DIGITAL IV White Edition offers the same performance as the GR DIGITAL IV in a white-colored body. A total of 10,000 units will be sold worldwide. The metal lens cap (which has a function for locking the power button) and genuine leather hand strap included in the package are also white. The package design also has a unified white finish befitting the name GR DIGITAL IV White Edition. 

GR IV Limited Edition White - top

 

* The camera specifications are the same as those for the GR DIGITAL IV. Please see the release announcement for the GR DIGITAL IV for details.


Contact Information:
Alpha Digital Services Ltd : UK Exclusive Distributor

01189 337000  
Visitors, users and viewers of the foregoing content may copy and re-use it in other internet content sites on condition the source of all material so used is acknowledged with the attachment of the following.
www.ajaxnetphoto.blogspot.com 2011.
www.ajaxnetphoto.com 2011.
This content may NOT be used in any media made available for commercial resale.
The products and companies named in this website content are trademarks , registered trademarks or servicemarks of their respective owners or licensed user.

InVisage Unveils QuantumFilm Image Sensors

Press Release: 22nd March, 2010.

PALM DESERT, Calif, USA.

Quantum Dot Material Replaces Silicon; Enables Stunning Image Quality 
on Mobile Handsets

PALM DESERT, Calif., March 22, 2010, DEMO Spring 2010 –

Ushering in a new era of high-performance image sensors, InVisage Technologies, Inc. – a venture-backed start-up that is revolutionizing the way light is captured – today announced QuantumFilm. Harnessing the power of custom-designed semiconductor materials, QuantumFilm image sensors are the world’s first commercial quantum dot-based image sensors, replacing silicon. InVisage delivers 4x higher performance, 2x higher dynamic range and professional camera features not yet found in mobile image sensors. The first QuantumFilm-enabled product, due out later this year, solves the crucial challenge of capturing stunning images using mobile handset cameras.

 (l-r) typical camera phone pixel light gathering efficiency compared with pixel using Quantum Film

QuantumFilm was developed by InVisage after years of research under the guidance of notable scientist and InVisage CTO Ted Sargent. The technology is based on quantum dots – semiconductors with unique light-capture properties. QuantumFilm works by capturing an imprint of a light image, and then employing the silicon beneath it to read out the image and turn it into versatile digital signals. InVisage spent three years engineering the quantum dot material to produce highly-sensitive image sensors that integrate with standard CMOS manufacturing processes. The first application of QuantumFilm will enable high pixel count and high performance in tiny form factors, breaking silicon's inherent performance-resolution tradeoff.

“It is becoming increasingly difficult and expensive to develop next-generation image sensors using silicon; essentially, silicon has hit a wall,” says Jess Lee, InVisage President and C.E.O.

“The fundamental problem is that silicon cannot capture light efficiently, but until now it has been the only option. The disruptive nature of QuantumFilm builds on silicon's success in electronics, and elevates its function using new materials that are engineered from the ground up for light capture.”

Silicon-based image sensors – the technology used today for all digital cameras including handheld, professional, mobile phone, security and automotive cameras – capture on average a mere 25 percent of light. QuantumFilm captures between 90-95 percent, enabling better pictures in even the most challenging lighting conditions. This increase in efficiency will deliver improvements across the entire imaging market, allowing QuantumFilm to be the de-facto next generation camera platform. The first target market for QuantumFilm is mobile handsets, where there is the greatest demand for small, high performance image sensors.

Quantum Film enhanced imaging sensor

Just nanometers in size, the quantum dot-based material is deposited directly on top of the wafer during manufacturing. And unlike silicon-based image sensor technologies such as BSI (back-side illumination) and FSI (front-side illumination), QuantumFilm covers 100 percent of each pixel. The material is added as a final wafer-level process, which allows for easy integration into standard semiconductor foundries. The process - akin to coating a layer of photoresist onto a standard wafer - adds minimal cost on top of the standard layers of silicon processes.

“It is safe to say that the industry spends an average of $1 billion for each new generation of pixel technology, all to achieve a single-digit percentage improvement in image quality,” says Tetsuo Omori, senior analyst, Techno Systems Research Co.

“The future of imaging is in new materials like QuantumFilm, which will change the competitive landscape and possibly re-ignite the pixel race.”

InVisage was founded in 2006 and is led by industry veterans from the image sensor and advanced semiconductor materials industry.  It employs 30 people at its Menlo Park headquarters and has received more than $30 million in funding from RockPort Capital, Charles River Ventures, InterWest Partners and OnPoint Technologies.  Its technology is protected by 21 patents and patents pending.

QuantumFilm is ideal for a wide range of image-sensing technologies including security cameras, automotive cameras and military applications. The first QuantumFilm image sensors, targeting high-end mobile handsets and smartphones, will sample in Q4 of 2010.

For more information on InVisage Technologies, please visit its newly-launched web site at www.invisageinc.com. InVisage will be demonstrating its new technology at DEMO Spring 2010 in Palm Desert, Calif., on March 22 and 23.  InVisage will also be giving a talk about its technology at Image Sensors Europe 2010 on March 24 in London.

About InVisage Technologies. Inc.
InVisage Technologies, Inc. is a venture-backed fabless semiconductor company based in Menlo Park, Calif. that is developing QuantumFilm, a breakthrough imaging-sensing technology that will replace silicon. Its first product enables the high-fidelity, high resolution images from handheld devices like camera phones and PDAs.  Founded in 2006, InVisage Technologies is venture funded by RockPort Capital, Charles River Ventures, InterWest Partners, and OnPoint Technologies. More information is available at www.invisageinc.com.

About DEMO. 
Produced by the IDG Enterprise events group, the worldwide DEMO conferences focus on emerging technologies and new products innovations, which are hand selected from across the spectrum of the technology marketplace. The DEMO conferences have earned their reputation for consistently identifying cutting-edge technologies and helping entrepreneurs secure venture funding and establish critical business. For more information on the DEMO conferences, visit http://www.demo.com/.

For more information, please contact
: Tara Sims 
Silicon PR for InVisage Inc. 
tara.sims@siliconpr.com
 415 310 5779

Visitors, users and viewers of the foregoing content may copy and re-use it in other internet content sites on condition the source of all material so used is acknowledged with the attachment of the following.
www.ajaxnetphoto.blogspot.com 2010.
www.ajaxnetphoto.com 2010.

This content may be used in any media made available for commercial resale.
The products and companies named in this website content are trademarks , registered trademarks or servicemarks of their respective owners or licensed user.

World First - Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Touch-Screen Control

Press Release. 7th March, 2010.


The DMC-G2 - LUMIX G Micro System


Part of the highly commended Lumix G Micro System of digital still cameras, the 12.1 megapixel DMC-G2 is stylish, sophisticated and packed with features – whilst remaining committed to ease of use even for beginners. Standing out from the crowd, the new DMC-G2 is the world’s first interchangeable lens system camera with touch-control shooting1, offering consumers an entirely new kind of system camera shooting.


With a feature set to be proud of – including a 12.1 megapixel Live MOS sensor, the new Venus Engine HD II processor, double Live-View function, AVCHS Lite high definition movie recording, popular My Colour Mode and iA (Intelligent Auto) mode – to name but a few, the DMC-G2 offers revolutionary shooting ease and comfort.


The intuitive touch-control shooting- world’s first in an interchangeable lens system camera 1


Continuing to push the boundaries, Panasonic’s new DMC-G2 adopts touch-control shooting for the first time in an interchangeable lens system camera. AF is immediately set to the subject by just touching it on the large, 460,000-dot LCD. You can even release the shutter using a single touch.


Once you lock on the subject by touch, the camera tracks the subject even if it moves with the AF tracking function. Just one touch on the screen lets you select the part and size of the AF area with the 1-area AF. The 1-area AF in Face Detection even allows you to set finer focus on the persons eye while capturing a great portrait.. The Multi-area AF allows users to set a group of AF point according to the composition. With the Intelligent Scene Selector in the iA mode, the camera automatically switches to the appropriate mode according to the subject touched, for example, a touch on a human face switches to the portrait mode and the a touch on the background or a scenery to the scenery mode while a touch on the subject close to the camera to the macro mode. In the manual focusing, you can enlarge the key part of the subject by just a touch to select 1x, 5x or 10x zoom. The touch operation dramatically reduces the time of changing settings in the menu, too.

The touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting but also for playing back images with outstanding visibility. You can play back the image you want by touching on the one in the thumbnail. To play back images one by one in order, you can drag the image across the screen with a finger to browse the collection of photos as you flip over the pages of the book. Max.16x of enlargement is also easy with touches.

The large, high resolution LCD with wide viewing angle rotates 180° from side to and tilts 270° up and down offers approx.100% of field of view. The free-angle LCD with a touch-screen operation makes both monitoring and touching at any physical position.

The double Live-View function offered by the large and bright 3.0-inch 460,000-dot free-angle Intelligent LCD and 1,440,000-dot 1.4x (0.7x[2]) Live View Finder makes it possible to see how settings results in the picture in advance to the shooting. The 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor and the new Venus Engine HD II integrating Intelligent Resolution technology assure high image quality in both photo and movie recording.

Despite the incorporation of the high-performance LCD, the DMC-G2 remains small and light to offer excellent portability.


Superb Image Quality


While achieving breakthroughs in advanced functions and compactness of design, Panasonic also refined its comprehensive digital imaging technologies for every cameras of LUMIX G Micro System to raise the level of image quality that rivals or even surpasses D-SLR cameras. The 4/3-type 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor featured in the DMC-G2 offers the best of both worlds -- the superior image quality of a CCD sensor, and the lower power consumption of a CMOS sensor. Advanced technology that makes it possible to read 4 channels of data simultaneously also helps the G2 deliver 60 frames-per-second Full-time Live View images, while faithfully reproducing high-resolution images with fine detail and rich gradation.


The new Venus Engine HD II features exceptionally advanced signal processing capabilities. This sophisticated LSI separates chromatic noise from luminance noise and applies the optimal noise reduction to each, so you capture clear and beautiful images even when shooting at high ISO sensitivity levels. The Venus Engine HD II also provides independent gradation control for each of the R, G and B colours, so even delicate colour nuances are reproduced faithfully. Linking smoothly with the Live MOS sensor, the Venus Engine HD II records stunning high-resolution 12.1-megapixel images with exceptional accuracy. Signals containing a large amount of image data are sent from the Live MOS sensor to the Live View Finder at 60 fps, resulting in clear, smooth live view.


The high-speed, high-performance Venus Engine HD has been re-engineered to compile the new image processing technology "Intelligent Resolution". It enables the recording of beautiful photo and high-definition movie with higher quality signal processing. With the Intelligent Resolution technology, 3 areas — outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation areas are automatically detected. The outline parts are enhanced effectively to give edges more clearness while giving a moderate accentuation to the texture areas to look more finely detailed. To the soft gradation part, superior noise reduction system of the Venus Engine HD II is applied to make it smoother. Apart from the uniform enhancement of sharpness, the innovative technology Intelligent Resolution precisely performs signal processing pixel by pixel in the most effective way for it. As a result, images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and movie recording.


Cameras of LUMIX G Micro System are equipped with a highly efficient Dust Reduction System. If dust or other foreign matter gets inside the camera when you're changing lenses, it could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. The Dust Reduction System in the G2 helps eliminate this possibility by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor. Vibrating vertically around 50,000 times per second, the filter repels dust and other particles effectively.


HD Movies with Ease Thanks to AVCHD Lite


The DMC-G2 can record 1280 x 720 high-definition motion picture[3] in AVCHD Lite that features long recording time and high compatibility with audio-visual equipments. Users can enjoy recording HD motion images taking maximum advantage of the large sensor size and the interchangeable lenses. The action starts at a single press of a dedicated button on the top while most of the settings for photo recording are succeeded, which is convenient when you record the same subject at the same situation in both photo and movie. HD Motion JPEG in 1280 x 720 can also be selected as an alternative movie recording format in addition to QVGA, VGA and WVGA, which is more compatible with PCs. High quality sound can be recorded with Dolby Digital Creator and optional accessory Stereo Microphone (DMW-MS1) can be attach ed to the G2. A Wind Cut function is also available to block out most of the noise from background wind.


Even video beginners can record excellent movies with DMC-G2 because the popular iA (Intelligent Auto) is also available in motion image recording. Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.) helps prevent handshake when using high-powered zoom. Face Detection automatically detects a face in the frame and adjusts focus, exposure, contrast, and skin complexion on it so it always turns out beautifully. Intelligent Exposure continually checks the ambient light level and adjusts the exposure setting as conditions change to prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows. And Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Portrait, Scenery, Close-up and Low Light modes according to the situation to optimize visual quality.


The G2 also provides a My Colour mode, Film mode and carries over a variety of scene modes from photo scene modes in movie recording. Motion picture P mode that lets you change the aperture for more creative HD movie recording. You can try professional-like movie recording with these variety of options like you do with photo recording.


Now the DMC-G2 can take photo while recording movie by just pressing a shutter button. Plus you can save a frame of movie as photo during playback. Newly added Video Divide function lets you split a video into two at the point you desire. This makes it possible to delete the unwanted part by cutting it off.


Creativity for Photographers


The DMC-G2 is artistic not only in form, but also in function. It provides an array of features that lets users either capture precisely true-to-life images or create their own beautifully expressive images. The G2 features My Colour mode with a total of seven preset effects - Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Monochrome, Dynamic Art, and Silhouette - while inheriting the previous Custom mode, which lets users manually set the colour, brightness and saturation levels. With the Full-time Live View function, users can see how these settings will affect the images before they shoot, making it easier to capture the exact mood or atmosphere desired. For even more elaborate effects, users can choose from a total of nine Film modes, and set the contrast, sharpness and saturation levels for each. A custom function lets users store their favorite settings in memory. The G2 also provides a total of 26 Scene modes inclu ding the Peripheral Defocus mode. Most of these modes can be used when shooting motion images too, letting users create movies with dramatic, theatrical effects without having to edit after they shoot.


The exposure meter can be displayed in the P/A/S/M shooting modes. The correlation between shutter speed and aperture is shown, with a colour-coded warning that alerts users when the settings are not in the proper range. For newcomers to system camera photography, this makes it easy to learn proper settings both visually and logically, enhancing their photography skills.


iA (Intelligent Auto) mode for Great Shots Every Time


The DMC-G10 is ideal for compact camera owners who want to step up to higher-quality photos and advanced functions that are easy to use. Panasonic achieved this superb ease of use by continuing to improve the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode - with its shooting assist functions that have proven extremely popular in LUMIX compact cameras - and adding it to the LUMIX G Micro System's advanced imaging technologies. iA mode is available not only in photo but also movie recording.


With AF Tracking, the G2 can lock onto any subject and keep it in focus even if it moves - making it easy to get beautiful, clear shots when a great photo opportunity suddenly arises. Simply aim, lock, and shoot. The Face Recognition[4] function remembers registered faces to give an appropriate AF/AE on the people. In playback, you can choose to display only photos that contain a specific registered face using Category Playback.


In addition to the advanced functions mentioned above, the iA mode inherits fundamental functions users need in a good digital still camera. These include MEGA O.I.S., which helps prevent blurring from hand-shake, and Intelligent ISO Control, which reduces motion blur by adjusting the ISO sensitivity if the subject moves as the shot is taken. Intelligent Exposure optimizes the exposure for each part of an image, preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights and helping ensure that gradation and details are reproduced beautifully. It also features an automatic backlight compensation function that activates whenever the camera detects the subject is in backlight. Intelligent Scene Selector automatically detects the most common shooting situations - Portrait, Night Portrait, Scenery, Night Scenery, Close-up and Sunset - and switches to the appropriate Scene mode.


The user can activate all of these useful, convenient shooting-assist functions by simply selecting iA mode.



•Some functions in iA mode may not be available depending on the lens that is mounted.


Enjoy watching high quality photos and movies on a HDTV with VIERA Link networking


Both still images and motion images in AVCHD Lite recorded on SD Memory Cards are easy to view on a Panasonic VIERA TV with dynamic HD resolution. The user simply inserts the card into the VIERA Image Viewer (SD Memory Card slot) on a VIERA TV or DIGA Blu-ray Disc Player[5] to play the content. Alternatively, an optional mini HDMI cable can be used to output still and motion images recorded with the DMC-G2 directly to the TV for easy VIERA Link operation. This makes it possible to take maximum advantage of the camera's playback functions, including slideshows in which both still and motion images are played sequentially, or calendar displays and so on. All control is possible using only the TV's remote control.


In addition, with the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition, it is easy to view and edit your recorded contents. You may also choose to upload your videos to YouTube or burn them to a DVD disc for archiving.


An Expanding System


The Micro Four Thirds System products are joining today's Four Thirds System products to provide customers with even higher levels of performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX DMC-G2 and LUMIX G Micro System can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds standard via an optional mount adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R Lenses via DMW-MA2M or MA3R. This gives the user access to the unlimited number of lens properties.


With the LUMIX G Micro System and the growing assortment of lenses becoming available, the expressive possibilities are unlimited. The LUMIX DMC-G2 system camera offers a wide variety of options to choose from to match every shooting situation and shooting style.


The DMC-G2 with HD movie recording capability offers an abundance of advanced funtions with an unprecedented ease of use realized by an innovative touch control. A new-generation system camera that gives you both stunning images and super-easy operation – Panasonic’s new DMC-G2 will be available from June 2010.

Some functions may not be available depending on the lens that is mounted.
· These are standard times taken at a temperature of 23ºC (73.4ºF) and a humidity of 50%. •The time available for recording varies depending on the environment, the interval between recordings, and the manner of use. •Actual recordable time is the time available for recording when repeating actions such as switching the power supply [ON]/[OFF], starting/stopping recording, zoom operation etc. *The length of recording time depends on the capacity of the SDHC/SD Memory Card. (Up to the equivalent of 2 GB per motion-picture recording.)
· Shooting conditions: 23 °C with 50% humidity; LCD on; Using a Panasonic SD Memory Card (512 MB); Using the supplied battery; Using the supplied lens; Starting recording 30 seconds after the camera is turned on (When the optical image stabilizer is set to [Mode1]); Recording once every 30 seconds with full flash every second recording; Turning the camera off every 10 recordings; The number of recordable images decreases in Auto Power LCD mode or Power LCD mode. CIPA is an abbreviation of "Camera & Imaging Products Association".
· ·Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds, and Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds Logo marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Olympus Imaging Corporation, in Japan, the United States, the European Union and other countries
· ·The "AVCHD" is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation. The "AVCHD Lite" is a subset of the "AVCHD format" for HD digital video cameras with HD video recording restricted to 720P. The new "AVCHD Lite" Logo and the "AVCHD Lite" License are restricted to devices within the AVCHD Video Camera category. Digital cameras have been added to the AVCHD Video Camera category.
· ·The "AVCHD Lite" and the "AVCHD Lite" logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.
· AVCHD Lite motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD disc cannot be played on a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.
· Contrast AF can be used with Micro Four Thirds lenses or with Four Thirds lenses compatible with contrast AF attached via the Mount Adaptor (DMW-MA1). Only manual focusing can be used with some Four Thirds lenses.
· Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
· YouTube is a trademark of Google Inc.
· The SDXC/SDHC Memory Card can be used only if their logos are indicated on the equipment or in the operation manual. It cannot be used with equipment that supports only the SD Memory Card.
· Some functions may not work when lenses other than the included lens are used. Please refer to Panasonic's website etc., for the latest information.
· The use of recorded or printed materials that are protected by copyright for any purpose other than personal enjoyment is prohibited, as it would infringe upon the rights of the copyright holder.
· Weight and dimensions shown are approximate.
· Design, functions, and specifications are subject to change without notice.




[1] For an interchangeable lens system camera as of March 7, 2010


[2] 35mm camera equivalent

[3] Use a card with SD Speed Class with "Class 4" or higher when recording motion pictures in [AVCHD Lite]. Also, use a card with SD Speed Class with "Class 6" or higher when recording motion pictures in [MOTION JPEG].

*SD Speed Class is the speed standard regarding continuous writing.

·Motion pictures can be recorded continuously for up to 29 minutes 59 seconds in some countries.

·Continuous recording exceeding 2 GB is not possible when recording motion JPEG.

Remaining time for continuous recording is displayed on the screen.

·AVCHD Lite motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD disc cannot be played on a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.

[4] Turn Face Recognition item ON and register the person with full-face portrait on the shooting menu in advance.

[5] AVCHD Lite motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD cannot be played on a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.

–ends-


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