Canon Introduces 4-Megapixel Camcorder
By Greg Scoblete -- TWICE, 8/22/2005
Lake Success, N.Y. — Proving that the megapixel war is not confined to still cameras, Canon introduced a 4-megapixel MiniDV camcorder earlier this month, claiming it is the smallest 4-megapixel model currently on the market.
The 4.3-megapixel Optura 600 uses a single CCD with an RGB primary color filter, DIGIC DV processor and a 10x optical/200x digital zoom lens with built-in stabilization.
Its digital still photo capabilities include preset scene modes, metering, Auto Exposure Bracketing, image effects, built-in red-eye reducing flash, a print/share button and selectable nine-point Auto Intelligent Auto Focus (AiAF).
The camcorder saves images to SD memory cards and features a USB 2.0 high-speed port for transferring images.
Video features include a high-resolution 16:9 mode, manual audio control, microphone and headphone terminals and a new menu system.
The Optura 600 will ship in September for an estimated $1,099.
The company also announced another diminutive MiniDV model in the 2.2-megapixel Optura S1. The model features a 10x optical/200x digital zoom lens with built-in stabilization, DIGIC DV and a print/share button.
The S1 features a built-in video light, metering and scene modes, Auto Exposure Bracketing and a nine-point AiAF. Additional still features include a built-in flash and lens cover and a miniSD card slot. The S1 ships in September for an estimated $799.
