Stanford Scientists develop Open Source Frankencamera
September 7, 2009
Researchers at the Stanford University have conceived an open-source camera, Frankencamera, that is probably the world's first open-source camera. The camera reportedly consists of a Nokia N95 mobile camera module, a couple of Canon lens, a circuit board and Linux operating system.
The current prototype of the Frankencamera is made up of some parts borrowed from dead cameras and its creators have said it to look ugly. The best part of this camera is its open-source platform that provides programmers the facility of creating algorithms in order to process pictures in a different forms rather than depend on the forms offered by the leading camera manufacturers such as Nikon, Canon, etc.
One result the researchers have been able to achieve in the lab is being able to extend the camera's dynamic range making it capable of handling a wide range of lighting in a single frame. Ideally, the whole process of wide-dynamic-range imaging involves capturing pictures of a particular scene with different exposures and then combine all of them to create a composite image on a PC using the processing software.
The researchers are still working out to make the camera churn out better videos by using high resolution pictures. Within a year, this platform is expected to be ready to hit the shelves.
Samsung Reveals a Super-Thin Digital Camera, ST45
September 5, 2009
Samsung has announced a brand new compact digital camera today and named it the ST45. They claim this to be a super-thin digicam with a thickness of just 0.63 inches. This slim and handy dimension allows it to be easy to carry around wherever one goes.
The Samsung ST45 is said to feature a 12.2 mega-pixel sensor, a 3x optical zoom lens system and a light sensitivity of ISO 3200. It is also said to include some additional features like the face detection, self-portrait mode, image stabilisation, and auto sorting functionality.
It is reported to be available in four attractive colours; red, black, grey and blue. The ST45 has been scheduled for a UK release by the end of this month; a US release date is yet to be known. There is no information on the pricing details yet.
Canon Announces EOS 7D; the Nikon D300s Killer
September 4, 2009
Canon has introduced a new 18.1 mega-pixel DSLR camera; the EOS 7D that is expected to give tough competition to the Nikon D300s.
This camera features the Dual DIGIC 4 image processors, 19-point auto focusing system, 8fps continuous shooting, a new Canon iFCL Metering system and an intelligent viewfinder. Reported to be an improved version of the EOS 5D Mark II DSLR, this one is stated to offer full HD recording at 24fps and 30fps. It is also said to feature an expandable ISO range of up to 12800. It has been equipped with an integrated Speedlite Transmitter that can be used by photographers to control external Speedlites without using external accessories.
With a magnesium alloy exterior this one is tough as well as lightweight and also offers protection against moisture and dust. Targeted at the professional photographers, the EOS 7D is expected to cost about $1699 (body only) and is to hit the stores towards the end of September 2009 and early days of October 2009.
Panasonic Adds DMC-GF1 to the Micro Four-Thirds Line
September 3, 2009
The latest Micro Four-Thirds camera, Panasonic Lumix GF1 has been launched today. The Panasonic GF1 along with the Vario 14-45mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA OIS lens system is expected to start shipping in October 2009 at a suggested retail price of $899.95.
In August-2008, Olympus and Panasonic announced the Micro Four-Thirds technology for cameras. These were expected to offer DSLR image quality and speed within a smaller and compact body. Following the announcement, Panasonic launched two Micro Four-Thirds cameras, the Lumix G1 and the Lumix GH1. Both offered DSLR qualities but were considerably heavier.
This July saw the emergence of Olympus E-P1 that fulfilled all the criteria of a Micro Four-Thirds camera. Panasonic has fired the E-P1 with its Lumix GF1. Both the cameras are identical in looks and size, however the GF1 sports an in-built flash that the E-P1 does not. The other features of the GF1 include a 12.1 mega-pixel sensor, a 3-inch LCD screen and a 3fps capture speed. Also, it is stated to shoot HD video in 720p resolution and allows users to view content on any compatible HDTV via its HDMI port.
Will the GF1 give a tough competition to Olympus E-P1?, one will have to wait and see.
Casio Adds Two Entry Level Digital Cameras to its Exilim Line
September 1, 2009
Casio has announced two new digicams to its EXILIM Zoom series that are claimed to be budget friendly, designed for first time users; the Exilim Zoom EX-Z280(12MP) and the EX-Z33(10MP). They are said to feature simplified controls, in-camera editing and face detection functionalities.
Apparently the EX-Z280 features a 12.1 mega-pixel sensor, a 4x optical zoom lens, a 26mm wide angle lens, an easy mode for simplified camera settings and a CCD-shift image stabilisation mechanism. Additionally, it is said to have a dedicated image processing engine in addition to the regular processor. These features aid users in adding clip art to the pictures without the need of any computer software. Also it is said to provide a 720p HD video mode and a YouTube video mode.
The next in line EX-Z33, is claimed to feature a 10.1 mega-pixel sensor, 3x optical zoom lens, and the common digital compact camera features and functionalities. Both the cameras are expected to start shipping this month, with the EX-Z280 priced at $179.99 and the EX-Z33 priced at $119.99.
