Imaging Briefs

Fairfield, Conn. — The Photographic Research Organization (PRO), a buying group of independent imaging retailers, has jumped into the accessory market with three PRO-branded digital imaging accessories. The products will be available at all PRO group retail outlets, some 400 in all. Accessories include a USB memory card reader, available for SmartMedia, Compact Flash, Memory Stick and SD, media card storage cases for the aforementioned formats, and inkjet photo paper in 4 by 6 and 8.5 by 11 sheets.

Port Chester, N.Y. — DigiFrame's new 17-inch DF-1710 is a high-end digital picture frame that combines a flat-screen display appliance with a built-in computer, 10GB hard drive, network interface, and pre-installed display and communication software. It also features a built-in CD-ROM, handheld IR remote control, flexible mounting options for built-in installations, landscape and portrait mode capability for stills, and the ability to accept any standard 16 by 20-inch decorative frame (a gold-tone frame, black matting, and anti-glare acrylic are included). A software upgrade adding USB support for memory card readers will be available soon. It carries a suggested retail price of $2,999 and is shipping now.

Poway, Calif. — Flash memory manufacturer Delkin introduced a new line of CompactFlash memory cards aimed for high-end digital camera owners. Delkin claims that the eFilm PRO card reduces image capture times with speeds up to and exceeding 3.6MB per second sustained write, depending on shooting conditions. The speed is achieved via a new technology that Delkin developed called DQD. The cards will initially be available in capacities of 128MB, 256MB, 320MB, 512MB and 640MB. The suggested retail for the 640MB is $599, $99 for the 128MB and $199 for the 256MB.