Cameras

Canon has it figured out

Dale — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 10:23:55 -0400

We've had a Canon PowerShot S1IS for a couple years now and love it, but lately, the images have been turning purple on us. So I called Canon tech support, since there's a product advisory, and it sounds like this is a manufacture defect, so we should be able to get a free replacement.

I got the "all representatives are busy" message, but instead of making me sit on hold for 20 minutes, it had me enter my phone number and speak my name, and they would just call me back when I'm next in line. Is this brilliant or what? It's really a win-win situation. I don't have to sit on hold for "12-20 minutes", and they save money on their toll-free number. I wish more companies would implement this system.

Less than 10 minutes later, they called me back, and I was connected immediately. We're sending it in for either a free repair or an upgrade.

Review: Klix 1.0 for Mac OS X and Windows

Dale — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:54:23 -0400

Remember having to choose between 24 and 36 images to a roll of film? With compact flash, SD/MMC, and other media cards used in modern digital cameras pushing upwards of 4GB, anything less than a few hundred or even thousands of images seems absolutely crippling. But with any magnetic storage device, it's not a question of if the media will fail, but when, and these cards are no exception.

But what do you do when you haven't emptied your card into iPhoto or your favorite image cataloging application for months, and when you finally get to it, a number of the images (or even all of them) are corrupted? Have you lost all of those memories? Do you need to reformat the card and start over? No. You have a couple options. You could take the card to a drive recovery specialist like our friends over at DriveRescue and pay a lot of money for recovery. Or, you could pay $30 for a copy of Klix from JoeSoft.

The software works very simply. Using your camera or card reader (I recommend a card reader to save your camera batteries) via USB or FireWire (AKA IEEE 1394 or iLink), connect to your Mac or PC. Launch Klix. It recognizes your card, and if you have more than one connected, it'll give you a choice via a popup menu. Click on the Recover button, and it scans the card for images and movies. Go on with whatever you were doing before, and depending on the size of your card, several minutes later, you'll get a preview of all the images on the card. Choose some or all of the images from their thumbnails, and drag and drop or save them wherever you want them.

We happened to have 2 compact flash cards from our digital camera, both of which had corrupt images on them. In fact, an entire trip across the country was on the line with one of these cards. How did Klix fare? As far as we can tell, every image was restored and saved perfectly except 1, which seems to have been overwritten. (But speaking of overwriting, we got one of the cards used with the camera on ebay. When we restored the images, we found images from the family that previously owned the card, and while we simply erased them, let this be a warning to you: don't sell or give away old memory cards if they might have personal data on them--it's recoverable. Same goes for hard drives. In this case, they were just vacation shots, not anything personal, but it could have been. We could even tell that, though they sold us the card with a Canon camera, the photos and movies were taken with a Nikon.)

After restoring the images, we reformatted a card, since Klix claims to be able to recover even if all has been lost through an accidental reformat. After reformatting a card, we could still recover 244 out of 246 images and movies.

The software does have a few quirks. We found that it for some reason runs 2 applications with the same name and icon at once. While not a significant problem, it will confuse users and tarnishes a nearly perfect application just a bit. A better preview besides the tiny thumbnails would be helpful, and an actual progress bar instead of just "Busy recovering to (path location)" would be nice but not completely necessary. A "New Folder" button in the save dialog should also be there and was mysteriously missing. We had to quit after each restore in order to use the next card. It wouldn't autodetect the new one when mounted.

Nikon Updates Photo Editing Software

Dale — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:51:58 -0400

So here's the question: is this software worthwhile, or should Nikon stick to being a camera company and leave the software to Apple, Corel, and Adobe? Grab the demo and decide.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR IMAGES: NIKON INTRODUCES UPGRADED CAPTURE NX 2 PHOTO EDITING SOFTWARE

Powerful New Tools Make Photo Editing Quick and Easy

MELVILLE, N.Y. (June 3, 2008) – Nikon Inc., today introduced the latest generation of its robust image processing and editing software, Capture NX 2, which provides photography enthusiasts with a suite of powerful tools and a simple, visual operation to streamline photo editing. Capture NX 2 utilizes revolutionary U Point® technology to give photographers access to powerful Control Points that enhance color, exposure, and other image quality settings quickly and easily. New technologies abound in Capture NX 2, including the innovative new Selection Control Point that places a commanding suite of image editing tools at the user’s fingertips to simplify and accelerate the image editing experience.

In addition, Capture NX 2 adds an advanced Auto Retouch Brush for seamless retouching, an improved yet simple user interface, updated menus, browser functionality and an increase in performance. Whether you choose JPEG, TIFF or RAW (NEF) files, Capture NX 2 is the perfect complement to the growing Nikon Digital System. It also offers advanced RAW (NEF) processing capabilities, simplified image-browsing, selection and labeling as well as improved batch-processing capabilities, superior color management and comprehensive system compatibility with Nikon’s EXPEED image processing concept.

“We have listened carefully to the requests of current Capture NX users and photographers in developing this powerful new software. This is an economical solution for the photographer who requires non-destructive image editing and wants to quickly and easily process their images,” said Michael Rubin, senior manager for Software Products at Nikon Inc. “With the addition of revolutionary new tools, photo enthusiasts as well as professionals will be able to reap the benefits of Capture NX 2.”

While providing incomparable editing options for Nikon’s Electronic Format RAW (NEF) files, Capture NX 2 enables simplified editing and processing for most JPEG and TIFF files regardless of camera manufacturer or model.* Its broad range of editing tools makes image retouching, enhancing and editing simple and intuitive, allowing users to immediately see the effects as they are applied. Whether a professional photographer, enthusiast or casual shutterbug, many will find Capture NX 2 to be a great stand-alone photo editing solution, while others will discover that Capture NX 2 is a remarkably effective addition to their existing photographic workflow.

New Additions to Capture NX 2
Capture NX 2 is complemented by a myriad of features and tools that include the following:

• Selection Control Points: Now users can selectively edit photographs without the need to manually outline or mask the area for editing. Simply place a Selection Control Point anywhere on the photograph then choose from almost any adjustment such as D-Lighting, Unsharp Mask or noise reduction, while limiting the “reach” of that adjustment to just the selected area.

• Auto Retouch Brush: Capture NX 2 adds an automatic retouch tool to its image editing toolbox, allowing users to seamlessly remove blemishes, dust, and other distracting elements from photographs while maintaining the integrity of the image.

• Shadow/Highlight Adjustment: With just a simple slider adjustment, users can easily open up shadows or recover blown out highlights.**

• Redesigned GUI with Customizable Workspaces: As part of an interface redesign, the new Capture NX 2 includes a Workspace feature that maximizes the tool and palette layout for the task at hand. Users can create unique custom workspaces ideal for working with single or multiple monitors. All palettes and windows within can be docked or undocked or hidden as needed. Predefined workspaces include: Browser, Metadata, Edit, or an optimized combination of each. In addition, users can access their most used folders with the new “Favorite Folder” feature.

• Improved Edit List: Nikon’s Capture NX 2 also incorporates an improved edit list that allows users to apply common enhancements to images with ease. Common tools like tone curves, exposure compensation, contrast, and highlight and shadow protection are just a click away via the Quick Fix menu. The improved edit list allows for camera and lens corrections like color moiré reduction, dust off, auto color aberration, auto red-eye correction, vignette control and fisheye lens correction.***

• Simultaneous Use of Tools: Users can now complete image editing faster than ever before with the use of simultaneous tools. For example, users can adjust the brightness and contrast of an image while boosting the color of the image at the same time.

• Filters, Ratings and Sorting Toolbar: Capture NX 2 offers an advanced filtering system in its tool bar, affording users an efficient way to filter through hundreds of images by user-defined labels, ratings, file types and file attributes. What’s more, these new filters, ratings and sorting tools are integrated into the metadata palette, allowing users the ability to easily edit and view XMP/IPTC information.

Nikon’s new Capture NX 2 software represents the core of Nikon’s integrated digital imaging systems, including cameras, lenses, software, speedlights and accessories, and allows photographers of all skill levels to experience the highest performance their Nikon equipment has to offer.

Capture NX 2 will be available for purchase throughout the United States in late June 2008 with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $179.95 (full version) or $109.95 (upgrade). A 60-day free trial version will be available today for users who wish to experience all that Capture NX 2 offers. For more information, and to download the 60-day trial version please visit www.nikonusa.com.

New JVC Everio S Series Camcorder gives direct YouTube upload

Dale — Mon, 19 May 2008 21:11:07 -0400

It's Windows-only, but this new camcorder has been designed to make sharing easy. Personally, I prefer a bit of editing first (which you can), but if you want to post it fast, the GZ-MS100 may be just the thing.

Full details:

WAYNE, NJ, May 19, 2008 – Sharing videos over the Internet is now easier than ever with the launch of a new JVC camcorder that provides one-button uploading to YouTube™, the leading online video community that allows people to discover, watch and share originally created videos.

The new JVC Everio S Series memory camcorder, the GZ-MS100, was designed to make sharing simple for the millions of people who enjoy sharing their videos with the world over the Internet. And unlike many of the other camcorders that target Internet users, JVC’s GZ-MS100 provides an impressive array of full-fledged camcorder features that give it the versatility to do more than shoot short Internet videos.

It looks strikingly similar to the popular Everio G Series camcorders, but is smaller and weighs only 0.60 lbs. including battery, because it records to an SD Card (user provided) instead of a built-in hard disk drive. The ever-increasing capacity and affordability of new SD Cards appearing on the market means that over time Everio S will be able to offer expanded recording time at a lower per minute cost.

One-Touch Upload to YouTube™ on the Internet
Once the provided CyberLink software is installed on a Windows® PC, uploading video clips to YouTube™ is quick and easy. The camcorder has an UPLOAD button that works in two ways. In the camera mode, press UPLOAD and then the trigger, and this limits recordings to 10 minutes in length, which matches the YouTube™ file size limit. This eliminates the need to manually time recordings or go back to edit and shorten footage. After recording is done, connect the GZ-MS100 to a PC via a USB cable and press the UPLOAD button. This automatically launches the supplied application for uploading to YouTube™. After just a few mouse clicks the video will be up on the Internet for everybody to see. The original video quality is maintained in the camera, so it can be used for any other purpose.

Easy DVD Burning
For storage and cataloging, recorded videos can easily be transferred to a PC via USB2.0 or directly using the SD Card. The provided CyberLink application also allows easy burning to DVD using the computer’s optical disc drive. Or, to create DVDs without using a computer JVC offers the CU-VD3 Everio SHARE STATION as an option. Since it was designed as an Everio companion, this DVD burner accommodates Everio’s USB Host function that allows scene playback order to be rearranged within the camera before transfer.

User-Friendly Design
The GZ-MS100 features Laser Touch Operation, first offered in the Everio G Series camcorders released earlier this year. The feature’s scroll bar and buttons are touch-sensitive so the user just glides a finger up or down the bar to choose menu items while its blue light follows the movements. The LCD screen itself is never touched, so it won’t get dirty, smudged or covered in fingerprints. The 2.7-inch LCD screen, the same one used on Everio G series models, has Auto Backlight Control to automatically adjust brightness for comfortable viewing indoors or outdoors. And with Auto Power ON/OFF, the user simply opens up the LCD to power-on and start shooting (takes only about one second if Quick Restart mode is engaged), and closes the LCD to shut the power off and avoid draining the battery. The shape of the camcorder itself facilitates ease of use, with a contoured grip that snugly and securely fits the palm of the hand.

In addition to the supplied BN-VF808 rechargeable battery that provides 2 hr. 5 minutes of operation per charge, higher capacity batteries are available: BN-VF815 for 4 hr. 15 minutes and BN-VF823 for 6 hr. 25 minutes of continuous operation per charge.

High Performance Camera and Functions
Up front, the GZ-MS100 is equipped with a KONICA MINOLTA LENS that provides a 35x optical zoom with excellent picture quality. JVC’s proprietary Gigabrid Engine also contributes to quality by incorporating six digital noise reduction systems to improve the S/N ratio by about 30 percent (3dB) over previous models, and integrating the MPEG-2 encoder to help reduce block noise and mosquito noise. Other full-fledged camera functions include Program AE with shooting modes to accommodate a variety of situations (Night, Twilight, Portrait, Sports, Snow, Spotlight), Digital Image Stabilizer to minimize camera-shake, and much more.

Nikon releases Coolpix S52c camera with Wi-Fi

Dale — Fri, 16 May 2008 10:00:00 -0400

It's a camera using your internet connection and T-Mobile hotspots.

Full details:

Advanced Compact Camera Features Wi-Fi for Enhanced Storage and Sharing

MELVILLE, NY (May 16, 2008) - This month Nikon begins shipping the new COOLPIX S52c digital camera. Each S52c ships with six-months of complimentary T-Mobile® HotSpot Wi-Fi service for digital cameras, which allows the user to send images and videos from thousands of T-Mobile® HotSpot locations within the United States*.

In addition to an innovative Wi-Fi feature, the S52c boasts 9 megapixel resolution for generating high quality prints, a 3x Zoom-Nikkor glass lens ensuring great pictures with true-to-life color, and a huge, bright 3.0-inch LCD screen for users to easily compose and share images. To help ensure the consumer will be able to capture stunningly sharp images, the S52c utilizes an Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization system and ISO up to 3200, enhancing the camera’s low-light performance.

Across town or across the ocean, by using the S52c’s One Touch Email with the Picture Mail button and Nikon’s photo sharing hub, my Picturetown, consumers can take advantage of several avenues for sharing their images and videos. Through my Picturetown, users can email pictures directly to friends and family, publish pictures to the photo community sharing website Flickr, and link their photos to blogs and social networking sites. Pictures can also be sent to the email addresses of certain mobile phones for viewing.

In addition, S52c owners can utilize my Picturetown to store up to 2 gigabytes of images and movies for free, providing a valuable back up to memory card storage. S52c users are able to access my Picturetown from their computers, and nearly any portable device with internet accessibility, providing instant access to their images anytime, anywhere.

The COOLPIX S52c digital camera will be available nationwide beginning May 16, 2008. The S52c has an MSRP Price of $279.95. For more information about this and other COOLPIX cameras, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

Microsoft Takes Geotagging Mainstream With New Digital Photo Products

Dale — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:15:25 -0400

Pro Photo Tools and Expression Media 2 address digital photo organization issues through geotagging.

REDMOND, Wash., May 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Microsoft Corp. today introduced two new products to help photographers manage their digital photos in a new way using location data, a process known as geotagging. Geotagging is an exciting new way to organize your digital photos that was previously available only to those with technical expertise.

Microsoft Pro Photo Tools make geotagging available for all photographers and can be downloaded for free at the Microsoft Pro Photo Web site athttp://www.microsoft.com/prophoto. Today, Microsoft also released Expression Media 2, a new version of its digital asset management software, which is part of the Expression family of products for creative professionals. Expression Media 2 is designed to help reduce the amount of time required by photographers to manage and organize large collections of photos and other digital media, and it includes geotagging functionality.

"These two products really simplify the process of geotagging and organizing digital photos by location, even without a GPS device," said Josh Weisberg, director of the Rich Media Group at Microsoft. "We'll continue to look for ways to simplify features like geotagging that help keep photographers organized."

As digital photography has gained popularity, so has the demand for geotagging tools. Photographers, both professionals and enthusiasts, want the ability to quickly identify the location of their images. With the Pro Photo Tools, photographers have a lot of flexibility in how they tag their photos, including RAW formats. They can gather location information from a variety of sources and apply it to the metadata in their images, drag and drop images on a map, determine location names based on GPS coordinates, and assign GPS data to images that are missing it.

"Geotagging is a hot new area in digital photography, and like other popular digital photo features, I expect photographers will be asking themselves how they ever lived without it," said Ron Glaz, analyst at IDC. "Until now geotagging has been hard to do, requiring special expertise and tools. The time has come for an application that even the weekend photographer can use. Microsoft's initiative of leading the way and making geotagging accessible to pros and enthusiasts alike is a step in the right direction."

The Pro Photo Tools and Expression Media 2 are designed to work together to help photographers better manage their digital image collections with new comprehensive digital asset management functionality including geotagging. Expression Media 2 has an open architecture, supports multiple file formats including RAW, and can be used either on Windows or Macintosh operating systems, giving photographers more control over images and greater flexibility. It also allows quick export of photos into multiple formats to produce slide shows, video, and interactive Microsoft Silverlight-powered Web galleries. Expression Media 2 will be available for purchase in mid-May, and a trial version is available at the following link http://www.microsoft.com/expression/products/overview.aspx?key=media.

Canon's New XL H1S and XL H1A HD Camcorders Provide Advanced Features for Enhanced Control and Operation

Dale — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:43:45 -0400

New 20x HD Video Lens, Enhanced Image Control and Other User-Requested Refinements Serve the Needs of Event Video, Documentary Filmmaking and Pro Markets

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y. --(Business Wire)-- Apr. 10, 2008 Building on the success of its acclaimed XL H1 High Definition (HD) camcorder, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging technology, has introduced the new shoulder mount XL H1S and XL H1A HD camcorders, which include new advanced features requested by professional users for improved operation and image control.

Canon's new XL H1S and XL H1A camcorders, which will be on display at the 2008 NAB Show (Booth #SU3020), feature an updated Canon 20x HD Video Lens with three independent manual adjustment rings (focus, zoom and iris), as well as enhanced manual focus and zoom control. Additionally, the XL H1S and XL H1A incorporate an expanded array of controls for customizing the image, display, and operation to match individual needs. Utilizing the industry's most affordable digital video recording media - HDV tapes - both models are ideal for such long-form production applications as wedding and event videography, digital filmmaking, documentary production and media education.

Both the new XL H1S and XL H1A deliver superior HD image quality with their Genuine Canon XL interchangeable lens system, three 1/3 inch, 1.67 Megapixel CCD Image Sensors, and Canon's proprietary DIGIC DVII HD Image Processor. Both models also feature a durable six-pin IEEE 1394 terminal, providing a more robust connection to external hardware.

The XL H1S model provides expanded connectivity by incorporating HD-SDI (SMPTE 299M)/SD-SDI (SMPTE272M) output with embedded audio and time code, providing a raw, uncompressed 1.485 Gbps signal for demanding live production environments, SMPTE Time Code input and output terminals, and a Genlock output terminal for multi-camera shooting situations.

"The new XL H1S and XL H1A HD camcorders continue to meet the needs of producers, event videographers, and digital cinematographers with superior Canon optical and imaging technology, and with the most cost-effective medium for high-quality HD video capture and storage, which is HDV tape," noted Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. "Canon's unsurpassed quality is seen in our broadcast HDTV lenses and the Canon EOS digital photography cameras. This know-how directly benefits the quality of Canon professional and consumer HD camcorders. Recently, our consumer camcorders claimed the number-one position in total high definition camcorder unit sales above $200 in both January and February of 2008, according to The NPD Group's Retail Tracking Service."

New Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Zoom Lens III

Leveraging Canon's expertise as a worldwide leader in optics, the XL H1S and XL H1A feature a redesigned Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Zoom Lens equipped with Canon's XL lens mount. The XL lens mount enables users to interchange lenses, such as Canon's optional 6x wide-angle lens, Canon EF photographic lenses, and many other lenses for specialized image capture. The XL H1S and XL H1A HD camcorders' new Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Zoom Lens III offers independent manual zoom, focus and iris rings, which can operate simultaneously. These rings have been redesigned for easy access and comfortable operation. Other innovations of the lens include: three sensitivity settings for the manual focus ring; fast and slow zoom speeds; smooth movement when starting or stopping zooms; and selectable rotational angles between the tele and wide ends of the lens zoom. Simultaneous zoom and focus control are also possible in either Manual or Auto Focus mode. The new Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Zoom Lens III incorporates aspherical lenses to reduce flare and fluorite lens elements to minimize chromatic aberration. Additionally, the lens features Canon's SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) system, which corrects camera shake instantly on hand-held shots at full telephoto, shots taken from a moving vehicle, or other challenging situations.

User-Definable Operation

The new camcorders provide users with an unprecedented range of image/color settings, camera-control functions, and viewfinder display choices. Video can be captured and output in multiple frame rates to meet the demands of diverse production assignments. These frame rates include: 60i for mainstream production; 30F for perfect frame grabs or Web delivery; and 24F for emulating the look of motion-picture film. Canon's Factory Service Center can also provide an optional upgrade to add 50i and 25F frame rates. The camcorders can be switched in all frame rates between 1080-line 16:9 aspect ratio HD video and 480-line 4:3 aspect ratio SD video (or 576 lines in 50i or 25F mode).

Both the XL H1S and XL H1A HD camcorders provide Total Image Control for customizing image and color settings, with a total of 23 custom presets available for image-quality adjustment, with the range of image color presets extended from +/-9 to +/-50 steps for fine-tuning the picture (an important feature for achieving the visual subtleties favored by cinematographers). Custom image pre-set files can be stored to an onboard SD/SDHC Memory Card and shared with another Canon XL H1S, XL H1A, or with Canon XH G1 and XH A1 HD camcorders for seamless multi-camera production work.

Custom camera functions and operation settings total 21 items and 33 sub-items for achieving creative "looks" for footage. Among these new functions are: "shockless" white balance for smooth, color-accurate dissolves between two pre-set white balance values (adjustable from 2000K to 15000K); the ability to increase gain in 0.5dB increments from 0dB up to +18dB, and there is also additional -3dB and +36dB settings. A selective noise-reduction function is available for reducing the noise in targeted color areas, which is important for blue/green chroma-key applications in special effects work and for shooting insufficiently illuminated backgrounds.

Using the custom display settings feature, a camera operator can tailor the display to their shooting style. These include 22 items and 40 sub-items for selection of status information that can be shown in the XL H1S and XL H1A HD camcorders' 2.4" combination EVF/LCD monitor.

Audio Capture and A/V Connectivity

User-requested refinements in the XL H1S and XL H1A audio capabilities include: two-channel audio performance; two built-in XLR terminals with separate audio-input sensitivity settings; the ability to simultaneously record sound from an external microphone and the supplied internal microphone; line output level switching; an audio (manual) limiter; a new metal headphone jack for reliable connectivity. Another important new feature is embedded audio (and SMPTE time code) in the XL H1S HD camcorder's uncompressed HD-SDI/SD-SDI digital output via an industry-standard BNC connector.

Other improved connections on the XL H1S and XL H1A HD camcorders include an external LCD monitor output for critical focus confirmation on an optional larger monitor simultaneous RCA and BNC video output for added monitoring and dubbing convenience, and a photo-flash accessory shoe to support use of Canon EX Series Speedlites.

The new Canon XL H1S HD camcorder is scheduled to be available in early June for an estimated retail price of $8,999, and the XL H1A, which will have an estimated retail price of $5,999, is scheduled to be available in mid-July.

Cypress PSoC CapSense Interface Selected To Implement Touch-Sensitive Controls on JVC's Super-Slim Everio Hard Disk Camcorder

Dale — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 01:38:04 -0400

Flexible Solution Also Controls LEDs and Manages SPI Interface

SAN JOSE, Calif. --(Business Wire)-- Apr. 2, 2008 Cypress Semiconductor Corp. (NYSE:CY) today announced that its PSoC(R) CapSense(TM) solution has been selected to control the touch-sensitive user-interface in JVC's new ultra-slim Everio G Series camcorders. The new hard disk camcorders take advantage of Cypress's industry-leading technology to quickly implement capacitive sensing buttons and scroll bar, integrated seamlessly with the graphic camcorder control menu interface.

All Everio G Series models use CapSense to implement an interface that is both aesthetically-pleasing and intuitive for the user. The camcorder's Laser Touch Operation user interface is a touch-sensitive illuminated scroll bar adjacent to the LCD monitor screen. Simply moving a finger up or down along the scroll bar allows the user to browse through and select video clips to view or edit, as well as operate set-up menus.

JVC notes the slim compact size and sleek interface are two of the most attractive new features of the Everio G series camcorders. JVC's development team applauds Cypress's CapSense solution and excellent support on the firmware from Macnica Brilliant Technology Company that allowed JVC to deliver these features quickly and economically.

"We are pleased to have an industry leader such as JVC implement our CapSense solution," said Dhwani Vyas, Vice President for Cypress's CapSense products. "The versatility and integration of PSoC is rapidly gaining popularity with system designers looking to integrate multiple functions in addition to stylish interfaces."

In addition to the user interface, the CapSense solution delivers pulse-width modulation (PWM) to control LEDs that follow finger control movement on the Everio camcorders. The CapSense device also implements a custom, high-level communication protocol on top of the SPI interface.

Apple Releases Aperture 2

Dale — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 22:45:58 -0500

Major Upgrade Features Improved Interface, Faster Browsing & Enhanced Image Processing

CUPERTINO, Calif., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Apple(R) today introduced Aperture(TM) 2, the next major release of its groundbreaking photo editing and management software with over 100 new features that make it faster, easier to use and more powerful. With a streamlined user interface and entirely new image processing engine, Aperture 2 also introduces new imaging tools for highlight recovery, color vibrancy, local contrast definition, soft-edged retouching, vignetting and RAW fine-tuning, and lets users directly post their portfolios on the .Mac Web Gallery* for viewing on the web, iPhone(TM), iPod(R) touch and Apple TV(R). At a new low price of $199, anyone can easily organize, edit and publish photos like a pro.

"Many of the most respected photographers on assignment all over the world trust Aperture to organize, edit and deliver their images," said Rob Schoeben, Apple's vice president of Applications Product Marketing. "With its simpler interface and lower price, anyone can take full advantage of Aperture's power."

"At the end of the day, it's all about the quality of the image," said Sports Illustrated contributing photographer David Bergman. "Even before I begin making adjustments, Aperture's new RAW processing gives me better images with more visible detail and better color rendering than any other program I've tested."

"I used to have so much stress about post-production on a shoot, having to juggle multiple applications to make sure they all worked," said Bob Davis, PDN Top Knots Wedding Photographer 2007. "With Aperture that's no longer a factor. I can do everything all in one application."

Featuring a new, easier user interface designed to be more intuitive and accessible, Aperture 2 now lets users navigate between Viewer and Browser modes with a single key command. Screen real estate is maximized for images with an all-in-one heads up display that allows users to toggle between library, metadata and adjustment controls in a single tabbed inspector. The All Projects view, modeled after iPhoto's Events view, provides a poster photo for every project and the ability to quickly skim through the photos inside, and the integrated iPhoto(R) Browser offers direct access to all the events and images in the iPhoto library.

Performance has been enhanced in Aperture 2 so it's faster to import, browse and search large volumes of images. Embedded previews let photographers caption, keyword and rate images as they are being imported, and with the ability to export images in the background, photographers can continue working while images are processed to JPEG, TIFF, PNG and PSD file formats. Quick Preview allows users to browse RAW images in rapid succession without having to wait for files to load, and the Aperture library database has been re-architected to provide fast project switching and near instantaneous search results, even when working with extremely large libraries of 500,000 images or more.

Aperture 2 delivers powerful new imaging tools for getting the most out of each photograph. Apple's next-generation RAW image processing is at the core of Aperture 2 offering uncompromising image quality and precision controls that let users fine-tune the image profile for each of their cameras. New tools for improving and enhancing images include Recovery for pulling back "blown" highlights, Vibrancy for selectively boosting saturation without adversely affecting skin tones, Definition, which offers local contrast for adding clarity to images, Vignette & Devignette filters for providing professional visual effects and a true soft-edged Repair and Retouch brush for quickly and easily removing blemishes, cleaning up sensor dust and cloning away problem areas.

Aperture 2 works seamlessly with Mac OS(R) X, iLife(R), iWork(TM), .Mac and Apple print products, so any image in the Aperture library can be accessed directly from within other applications, such as iMovie(R), Keynote(R) and Pages(R), and even from within Leopard(TM) Mail. Now with .Mac Web Gallery support, Aperture users can publish their photos once to view them on the web, iPhone, iPod touch and Apple TV. Books in Aperture 2 feature new theme designs, layout tools, customized dust jackets (including full-bleed) and foil stamped covers.

Pricing & Availability

Aperture 2 is available immediately for a suggested retail price of $199 (US) through the Apple Store(R) (http://www.apple.com/), Apple's retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers. Owners of previous versions of Aperture can upgrade to Aperture 2 for just $99 (US). Full system requirements and more information on Aperture 2 can be found atÂ http://www.apple.com/aperture.

*The .Mac service is available to persons aged 13 and older. Annual membership fee and Internet access required. Terms and conditions apply.

New JVC Mini DV Camcorder Line Offers 35X Optical Zoom & User-Friendly Functions In New Compact Design

Dale — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 08:16:27 -0500

LAS VEGAS, January 30, 2008Â â€“ A new JVC MiniDV camcorder line offers portability and shooting flexibility, with two new compact and feature-laden models.Â

The compact design of the new JVC GR-D870 and GR-D850 belies a rich set of powerful features, such as a KONICA MINOLTA LENS with 35x optical zoom and a 2.7-inch 16:9 widescreen LCD monitor with automatic backlight control for easy viewing, even on a bright, sunny day. For low-light shooting there is also the built-in Auto Illumi-Light LED.Â

The GR-D870 provides a new level of versatility with Dual Recording and Live Slow features. With Dual Recording, users donâ€™t have to choose between shooting still images or video: still pictures can be taken while shooting video. Meanwhile, Live Slow â€“ a feature unique to JVC â€“ combines slow-motion video with live audio, a feature that is perfect for sports and other fast-moving action.Â

Both models come with an array of features to enhance ease-of-use and ensure top quality footage. The Stick Control on the LCD makes navigating menus and settings a one-finger operation, while the Data Battery lets the user know how much recording time remains. Other standard features include Multi-Language On-Screen to switch the on-screen display language, a dedicated Auto Button to instantly switch between auto and manual modes, and Power-Linked Operation, which switches the camcorder on as soon as the LCD monitor is opened.Â

Original JVC technologies such as the Super High-Band Processor, 3D NR (3-Dimension Noise Reduction) and NightAlive combine to assure maximum video quality in all kinds of shooting environments.Â

The high-quality KONICA MINOLTA LENS used in the GR-D870/GR-D850 provides the precision and detail expected from a leading camera lens specialist, delivering bright images and a broad zoom ratio. A powerful 35x optical zoom and 800x digital zoom provide great detail without sacrificing quality. Jagged edges and other undesirable noise are eliminated in images, even when magnified up to 35 times. The picture can be further enlarged up to 800 times with the digital zoom so even at a distance the user can frame the shot.Â

The 2.7-inch 16:9 widescreen LCD monitor provides a clear view of whatâ€™s being recorded with an extended field of vision, as well as an expansive wide mode that maintains high picture quality.Â

Specially designed for outdoor shooting, the new Auto LCD Backlight Control guarantees easy viewing in bright situations. The LCD backlight is adjusted automatically for a clear picture on the LCD monitor, even on a sunny day.Â

The GR-D870 offers Dual Recording Capability (video recording + digital still function), allowing both moving and still pictures to be recorded at the same time. Additionally, with the digital still function, shooting and storing of images (up to 640 x 480-pixels) is possible.Â

Live Slow, also featured in the GR-D870, allows the recording of slow motion images and playback with real-time sound. With the speed slowed down to a quarter of normal playback speed, precious or hard-to-see moments can be played back with a clear, professional-quality slow-motion effect. This unique effect is also available with footage shot at normal speed, providing a new range of possibilities in home video recordings.Â

Finally, brilliant full-color pictures are possible every time with the Auto Illumi. Light, which brightens the subject in low-light situations. To reduce battery drain, the camera will automatically turn off the light in bright environments.Â

A multitude of functions are accessible with the convenient Stick Control on the LCD, a four-way one-finger control on the LCD door. Simply press the four â€œcompass pointsâ€ on the circular control to navigate menu items and manual feature settings during recording and playback.Â

The slim 120-min. (with continuous shooting) Data Battery allows important occasions to be shot with peace of mind. Remaining battery and recording time are easily viewed simply by touching the Data button, even when the power is turned off. This allows remaining battery power and recording time to be checked before recording, and so avoid the risk that the battery runs out during shooting.Â

With the Multi-Language On-Screen function, the user can choose the operation language, making menu setting and camera operation easier and more intuitive. It offers seven languages: English, Spanish, French, Korean, Japanese, Portuguese and Chinese (traditional).Â

The detailed icons on the new on-screen display provide even more user-friendly operation, resulting in menus that are accessible and easy-to-navigate.Â

With the popular and convenient Power-Linked Operation, the camera automatically turns on when the LCD monitor is opened so users can start shooting immediately, and automatically turns off when the LCD is closed to conserve battery power.Â

The Auto Button toggles the camera between manual and automatic operation with just one touch. This convenient feature allows the user to shoot, for example, in the carefree automatic mode and quickly switch to manual mode in order to control specific functions, such as exposure.Â

JVCâ€™s 3D NR (3-Dimension Noise Reduction) compares field A to field A, and field B to field B across two frames so that the scanning lines are identical and noise can be reduced more accurately. As a result, the signal-to-noise ratio is improved by 2 dB and noise is reduced by about 30 percent. This eliminates flicker and improves color reproduction, enhancing overall picture quality.Â

Pricing and availability:Â

Model	National Ad Value	Available
GR-D850	$229.95	January
GR-D870	$249.95	January

About JVC Company of America
JVC Company of America, headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, is a division of JVC Americas Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Victor Company of Japan Ltd., and a holding company for JVC companies located in North and South America. JVC distributes a complete line of video and audio equipment, including high definition displays, camcorders, DVD players and recorders, home and portable audio equipment, mobile entertainment products and recording media. For further product information, visit JVCâ€™s Web site at http://www.jvc.com or call 800-526-5308.Â

JVC GR-D870 & GR-D850 MiniDV Camcorders
Supplementary InformationÂ

GR-D870â€ƒÂ High-Band Digital Video Camera
Compact and easy to hold DVC with ultra-powerful 35x optical zoom and convenient Dual Recording capability for shooting stills during video recordingÂ

Basic Features

1/6-inch 680k pixel CCD

35x Optical Zoom/800x Digital Zoom

2.7" Wide LCD

DV In/Out

Memory Card Slot for SD/MMC

Product Highlights

KONICA MINOLTA LENS

Powerful Optical Zoom (35x)

Digital Still Function

Dual Recording Capability

Auto LCD Backlight Control

New On-Screen Display

3-Dimension Noise Reduction (3D NR)

2.7" Wide Clear LCD Monitor

Stick Control

Auto Illumi. Light

Data Battery

Power-Linked Operation

DATA Button/AUTO Button

GR-D850Â â€ƒHigh-Band Digital Video Camera
Compact and easy to hold DVC with ultra-powerful 35x optical zoom and user-friendly features such as Auto LCD Backlight Control and Auto Illumi. Light

Basic Features