Leica et Fujitsu développent un SLR Haut de gamme

Leica Camera et Fujitsu Microelectronics codéveloppent une solution système pour le traitement d’image des appareils numériques SLR haut de gamme Un nouveau système de traitement d’image permettra d’obtenir une qualité d’image excellente, une vitesse d’exécution plus rapide et consommation d’énergie plus faible.

Leica Camera AG (‘Leica’) et Fujitsu Microelectronics Limited (‘FML’) ont anoncé le codéveloppement d’une solution système pour le traitement d’image des appareils photo numériques haut de gamme réflex mono-objectif (SLR), qui équipera la nouvelle génération d’appareils numériques Leica. Leica présentera un prototype numérique SLR équipé du nouveau système de traitement d’image, le LEICA S2, lors de l’exposition Photokina se déroulera du 23 au 28 septembre (Stand 02.1 Hall A001) à Cologne en Allemagne.

Contexte

Le nombre de pixels gérés par les appareils numériques SLR ou les téléphones portables avec appareil photo intégré est en constante hausse, et l’amélioration de la définition reste le principal argument de vente. Par conséquent, les fabricants doivent aujourd’hui répondre à cette double exigence que constitue la réduction de la consommation d’énergie et l’augmentation de la rapidité du traitement d’images. Un véritable défi pour les ingénieurs de conception qui doivent concilier ces exigences contradictoires pour satisfaire les clients. Depuis 2001, FML propose la série Milbeaut pour le traitement d’image des appareils numériques, celle-ci offre une haute définition d’image, une vitesse de traitement rapide et une faible consommation d’énergie. Largement utilisée pour le numérique SLR et même pour les compacts numériques, ainsi que pour les appareils photo des téléphones portables, la série Milbeaut a su anticiper les demandes du marché. La technologie Milbeaut offre, sur une seule puce, une gamme variée de fonctions requises par ce type d’appareils photo, notamment la compression/décompression (codage-décodage de l’image), la réduction de bruit et la gestion des cartes à mémoire. Depuis près d’un siècle, Leica Camera a tout mis en œuvre afin de défendre sa réputation mondiale de fabricant d’appareils numériques. L’entreprise est désormais reconnue pour son expertise technologique d’imagerie attestée par la qualité exceptionnelle de ses produits. Elle est activement engagée dans le développement de la technologie numérique, comme l’a démontré la sortie, en 2006, de son premier appareil numérique silencieux le LEICA M8, enrichissant ainsi la gamme populaire Leica M.

Solution récente

Compte tenu des exigences du marché évoquées ci-dessus, la nouvelle solution système de traitement d’image pour appareils numériques haut de gamme SLR utilise le traitement MAESTRO, basée sur la technologie FML Milbeaut associée à son logiciel de contrôle.

La toute dernière technologie de la série FML Milbeaut présente une amélioration de la gestion d’énergie, qui permet en effet de réduire considérablement la consommation. L’usage combiné de deux CPUs : Fujitsu’s FR-80 et FR-V (architecture VLIW) et d’accélérateurs supplémentaires permet un fonctionnement à haute vitesse. C’est la combinaison des opérations plus rapides tant du logiciel que des puces qui permet d’améliorer la performance du traitement d’image.

Les partenaires Leica et FML ont créé une équipe spécialisée d’ingénieurs en logiciel et électronique dont la mission est de booster l’expertise et les connaissances des deux entreprises. En alliant la puissante technologie Milbeaut de FML pour le traitement d’image au savoir-faire haute définition de Leica, les entreprises sont désormais en mesure de proposer une qualité d’image de pointe.

Stefan Trippe, directeur opérationnel de Leica Camera, a déclaré: « La philosophie de Leica est d’offrir à ses clients une technologie dernier cri; par conséquent, ce partenariat avec Fujitsu Microelectronics va permettre à Leica de conserver sa place de leader en matière de qualité d’image. »

Joji Murakami, vice-président corporate de Fujitsu Microelectronics Limited, a annoncé: « Fujitsu Microelectronics se réjouit de cette opportunité de partenariat avec Leica. La réputation et l’expertise de Leica dans le domaine du traitement d’image LSI vont donné naissance à un appareil numérique SLR haut de gamme véritablement exceptionnel. »

Développements Futurs

Une nouvelle plate-forme issue de cette collaboration a été développée et servira dès lors de base à tous nouveaux projets et à l’élaboration des nouveaux produits Leica, tout en facilitant la conception des futurs circuits de FML. De plus, cette plate-forme toute récente donnera une stabilité au développement des systèmes de traitement d’image futurs.

A propos de Leica Camera AG

A propos de Fujitsu Microelectronics Limited

Les noms des entreprises et des produits mentionnés ci-dessus sont des marques légales ou déposées de leurs propriétaires respectifs. Toute information fournie dans ce communiqué est correcte à sa date de parution et susceptible d’être modifiée sans préavis.

Source: Fujitsu Microelectronics Europe - Communiqué de presse - 24.09.2008

Carl Zeiss 21mm Distagon T* 2.8/21

Carl Zeiss Launches New 21mm Super Wide Angle Lens for SLR Cameras

The legendary Distagon T* 2.8/21 is now being introduced for SLR cameras with EF, F and K bayonets. Thanks to its excellent performance, this modernized version from the former Contax system sets new standards in this focal length class.

“The outstanding correction of chromatic aberration enables photos without color fringes even in high-contrast light conditions”, says Martin Klottig, Marketing Manager, Carl Zeiss Camera Lens Division. “Even at full aperture, the floating element design ensures optimum edge-to-edge image quality over the entire focusing range. And even in difficult light conditions, the new Distagon provides excellent results thanks to its T* coating, optimum reflection reduction and exceptional chromatic correction.”

The shortest possible distance setting of only 0.22 m makes the lens ideal for impressive perspectives. Typical applications include architectural, journalistic and landscape photography.

The Distagon 2.8/21 is available with an EF bayonet (ZE), F bayonet (ZF) and a K bayonet (ZK). It is suitable for both digital and analog full-format SLR cameras.

Delivery of the Distagon T* 2.8/21 is scheduled to begin by the end of 2008 with the ZF and ZK version. Its selling price is estimated at 1,399 euros (incl. 19% German VAT).

www.carlzeiss.com

Photo: (c) 2008 - Carl Zeiss - All rights reserved

Canon produces 30-millionth EF lens

Canon announced the achievement of a new lens-production milestone as production of the company's EF lenses passed the 30-million mark

Production of interchangeable EF lenses for Canon EOS-series AF (autofocus) SLR cameras began in 1987 at the company's Utsunomiya Plant. Canon produced its 10-millionth EF lens in August 1995, its 20-millionth in February 2001 and, a mere five years later, has now reached the 30-million plateau. This achievement reflects users' high level of satisfaction with the performance and quality realized by EF lenses, as well as the service offered through Canon's marketing operations.

Canon's proprietary EF (electro-focus) lens, which combines a large-diameter fully electronic lens mount and an internal autofocus motor, was born in 1987.

In November of the same year, Canon introduced the industry's first [1] Ultrasonic Motor (USM)-powered lens: the EF 300mm f/2.8L USM.

In September 1989, the EF 50mm f/1.0L USM, featuring the world's largest aperture [1] of f/1.0, was launched and in September 1995 the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM, equipped with the world's first [1] Image Stabilizer to correct for the effect of camera shake, made its debut.

Further, in December 2001, Canon delivered the world's first super telephoto lens incorporating a diffractive optical element for camera lenses [1]: the EF 400mm F4 DO IS USM.

In conjunction with the launch in September 2003 of the highly acclaimed EOS Kiss Digital SLR camera, which has achieved outstanding success worldwide with sales to date surpassing 1.2 million units, Canon expanded its EF lens lineup with the introduction of the EF-S series of lenses, optimized for use with digital SLR cameras that incorporate APS-C size (22.2 x 14.8 mm) image sensors.

Canon's current EF lens lineup comprises 60 [2] models, the most comprehensive selection*3 in the industry. Canon EF lenses span the gamut from ultra-wide 14mm to super-telephoto 600mm lenses and include standard and super-telephoto zoom models, large-aperture lenses, and TS-E lenses, which are equipped with a special tilt-shift mechanism that permits the manipulation of image perspective and distortion. Canon EF lenses have garnered high praise from a wide user base, from professional and advanced amateur photographers to novice photo enthusiasts, and earned Canon top share of the interchangeable lens market.

Also, as EF lenses are ideally suited for use with Canon's EOS D-series of digital SLR cameras in addition to its 35mm film SLR cameras, the company aims to continue developing the lineup as the core of the EOS system.

[1] For 35mm AF SLR cameras

[2] Including EF-S lenses and two EF lens extenders

[3] As of January 17, 2006.

Canon EOS IX7 APS SLR Camera

Canon EOS IX7 APS SLR Camera

Continuing its commitment to the Advanced Photo System format (APS), Canon has introduced the stylish EOS IX7, a second single lens reflex (SLR) camera that incorporates the benefits of the full range of EOS EF lenses plus the creative possibilities of the Advanced Photo System.

As stunning in design as the EOS IX, the EOS IX7 is Canon's smallest and lightest SLR camera, easy to use and highly portable, weighing just 360g. It incorporates a complete set of IX functions - mid-roll film change, IX data exchange, drop-in loading and print format selection - alongside new features such as print quantity setting and a versatile title printing function.

The EOS IX7 combines these functions with Canon's EOS features including nine AE modes, three point autofocusing with six zone evaluative metering, automatic or manual focus point selection, focus point indicator, built-in TTL automatic light adjustment and a built-in retractable flash with TTL automatic exposure compensation.

As with the EOS IX, Canon's first Advanced Photo System SLR, the EOS IX7 uses the EF lens mount system, so it can be used with all EF lenses and accessories that are available for 35mm EOS cameras.

Two new lenses have also been launched at this time, with compact lightweight design specifically for the EOS IX7. The EF 22-55mm f/4-5.6 USM lens features a replica aspherical lens for ultra-wide-angle coverage up to 22mm and a focal length equivalent to 28mm to 69mm in 35mm format. Whilst the EF 55-200mm f/4.5-5.6 USM lens provides a high magnification zoom ratio alongside a standard range (equivalent to 69mm to 250mm in 35mm format). Both lenses retain compatibility with the EOS series of 35mm format cameras.

Canon EOS IX7 - Ultra Compact

Weighing just 360g, the EOS IX7 is 18% lighter and slightly narrower than the EOS IX. This makes the camera ideal for those demanding a portable and attractive SLR camera.

Canon EOS IX7 - Advanced Photo System Features

In addition to all the IX features available on the EOS IX, Canon has added two new functions to the EOS IX7; print quantity and title selection.

A print quantity setting enables users to select the number of prints of each shots (from 0 to 9) either before or after taking the picture. Using this feature, the number of extra prints of a picture can be recorded immediately so the photographer does not have to remember how many are required.

The title selection feature gives users the option to select from up to 100 titles from 12 languages for a single frame, sequence of pictures or whole film. Titles are printed on the back of the picture.

Canon EOS IX7 - Focusing

A three point auto focus system enables the camera to focus on off-centre subjects. The focus point can be selected automatically or manually. Focus mode (One Shot or Al-Focus) is set automatically. A focus point indicator in the lower margin of the LCD viewfinder and on the external LCD panel enables the photographer to check on which part of the image the camera is focusing.

Canon EOS IX7 - Exposure Control

Metering, compensation and exposure control are identical to that of the EOS IX, except that the maximum shutter speed range is from 30 to 1/2000 of a second and the x-sync speed 1/125 seconds.

Nine AE modes give users the option of a variety of automatic exposure options for flexibility as well as full manual operation.

Canon EOS IX7 - Flash

A built-in retractable TTL auto pop-up flash includes a red-eye reduction function, has a zoom reflector giving coverage for lenses as wide as 22mm, has guide number of 10m at ISO 100 and is compatible with the E-TTL flash system.

Canon EOS IX7 - Film Loading

In addition to easy drop-in loading, the EOS IX7 features a cartridge cover safety lock.

The EOS IX7 with EF22-55mm USM lens is available from April at a price of £400 in UK.

CANON UK

www.canon.co.uk

Nikon Pronea 6i APS SLR Camera

Nikon Pronea 6i Advanced Photo System single lens reflex (SLR) camera

Nikon Pronea 6i APS SLR Camera

(c) Nikon

Nikon introduces the new Pronea 6i, Nikon's first Advanced Photo System single lens reflex (SLR) camera. The Pronea 6i combines Nikon's renowned SLR quality and innovation with the advantages of the Advanced Photo System. It features a comprehensive selection of Nikon SLR technological advances such as 3D Matrix Metering, Focus Tracking with Lock On™ and a built-in wide-angle coverage speedlight with automatic balanced fill-flash control.

"Customers appreciate the simple operation that is associated with Advanced Photo System cameras such as Nuvis by Nikon. Features such as drop-in film loading, all-auto operation, print aspect ratio (PAR) and picture quality improvement (PQI) have quickly become popular features," said Richard LoPinto, Nikon's vice president, photo marketing division. "In the Pronea 6i, the advantages of Advanced Photo System are combined with Nikon's formidable high-performance SLR design. The result is that any photographer can make better pictures, not just through simple operation, but through the synergy of the Advanced Photo System features with the Pronea 6i's high-performance, " said LoPinto.

Pronea - Nikon's New Advanced Photo System SLR System

The name PRONEA was chosen to indicate the beginning of a newly advanced system. PRO - for forward, advanced thinking, and NEA - for the beginning of a new opportunity for photographers. PRONEA will symbolize Nikon's Advanced Photo System Single Lens Reflex system development.

A key component for Nikon designers was to ensure that the new Pronea 6i would appeal to owners of AF Nikkor optics. To accomplish this, the advanced Nikon F Lens mount was employed; this is the same lens mount that is used for Nikon's advanced 35mm SLR cameras. The result is that photographers can use all AF Nikkor lenses, including AF Nikkor optics together with a selection of Nikon's 35mm SLRs and the new Pronea 6i. In addition to the expansive AF Nikkor lens system, Nikon will also introduce a selection of three new IX-Nikkor lenses, designed exclusively for the Pronea 6i (see related release).

Great Handling

The Nikon Pronea 6i is sleek and stylish, with a new shape for easy handling. Its light weight, combined with very quiet operation, is expected to be an appealing combination for today's photographers. Added versatility comes from its extra-large, illuminated, very-easy-to-see LCD panel positioned on the camera's back. The Pronea 6i is ergonomically proportioned, making it easy to grip and comfortable to use. Operating buttons, Command Dial controls and related displays are located conveniently close to each other, and the camera's vertical neck strap connectors enhances balance when the photographer carries the camera with a strap.

A bright, easy-to-see viewfinder complements the Nikon Pronea 6i. Because the viewfinder is made with an optical glass prism, picture composition will be easy to accomplish, even under dim-light conditions. And for precise composition, what photographers see in the viewfinder corresponds virtually 100% with what appears on pictures printed at a Certified Advanced Photo System Processing Lab.

The shutter has a 4-blade front and rear curtain. Its fast flash sync speed is 1/180 second, and its complete shutter speed range is from 30 sec. to 1/4000 sec. in 1/2 EV steps.

"With the new Pronea 6i, it is easy to take the power the camera has and apply it in a creative and exciting way," said LoPinto. "The camera takes the Advanced Photo System's benefits of ease of use and picture quality improvement, and gives them a whole new meaning to make even greater pictures."

Nikon Pronea 6i Features and Performance Light Meters

The Pronea 6i features Nikon's exclusive 3D matrix metering system, which controls exposure for nuances of brightness and contrast, making it perfect for photography in quick-changing light conditions, or whenever the photographer doesn't want to (or can't take the time to) adjust exposure controls manually.

As soon as the shutter release is pressed, the meter's sensors read the scene's light pattern and evaluate it for brightness and contrast. When used with an IX-Nikkor or a D-type AF Nikkor lens, the meter incorporates exposure control information with subject-distance information for more precise exposure calculations.

The camera also includes center-weighted and spot metering for creative photographers who want more personal control. Originally developed by Nikon, center-weighted metering offers 65% center-weighted concentration of meter sensitivity to shoot backlighted portraits or large groups. Spot metering concentrates nearly 100% of the meter's sensitivity into a 2.5mm circle at the viewfinder's center. Used primarily for manual exposure control, spot metering allows photographers to make exposure readings from tiny areas of light. Exposure Control

The Nikon Pronea 6i offers a comprehensive selection of exposure control features: Vari-Program, Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Manual exposure control. Exposure compensation with a range of +/- 5 EV in 1/2 step increments, built-in exposure/flash bracketing and built-in flash exposure compensation for use with automatic balanced fill-flash ensure a versatile range of creative control for the advancing photographer. Autofocus and Manual Focusing

The Nikon Pronea 6i's high speed, high sensitivity autofocus system features extra wide-area focus detection -- covering a 7mm horizontal and 3mm vertical area of the finder. Wide-area coverage facilitates keeping the focus detection area on moving subjects, and makes composition of off-center subjects easier to accomplish. The wide-area sensor also includes a cross-sensor at its mid-point. The entire wide-area, cross-type AF sensor operates with all AF Nikkor lenses, even those with an aperture as small as f/5.6. Subjects in light as dim as EV 0 (at ISO 200) are easily detected.

The Nikon Pronea 6i's autofocus system offers wide-area and spot autofocus, as well as Focus Tracking with Lock-On at motor speeds up to 3.3 frames per second (fps). With manual (or preset) focus, film advance speed increases to 3.5 fps. Autofocus with Focus Tracking and Lock-On assure consistently sharp focus, even in difficult changing situations. Manual focus is clearly confirmed with the built-in Electronic Rangefinder. When manual focusing is accomplished, an in-focus signal appears in the viewfinder.

Built-in Flash

The Nikon Pronea 6i's built-in speedlight incorporates many of Nikon's advanced flash and fill-flash technologies. Ultra-wide flash coverage will handle all IX-Nikkor optics, and AF-Nikkor lenses to a focal length of 20mm. The advanced built-in speedlight also enables 3D Matrix balanced fill-flash, rear-curtain sync, slow synch, red eye reduction, flash output level compensation and flash exposure bracketing.

The Nikon Pronea 6i also includes an ISO type hot-shoe which accepts compatible Nikon TTL controlled speedlights such as the advanced SB-26 and SB-27. The extra versatility and power provided by these Nikon speedlights expands the Pronea 6i's picture taking potential.

Nikon Pronea 6i's Advanced Photo System Features Magnetic Information Exchange

The Pronea 6i incorporates the Advanced Photo System's Magnetic Information Exchange (IX). This feature uses the magnetic coating on IX240 film to record specific exposure information for each picture taken. The recorded data can then be read by the photofinisher's processing equipment, enabling improvements in picture quality printing. The Pronea 6i accepts all ISO film speeds from 6-10,000. Film loading, film advance and rewind are automatically activated. Mid-roll Film Change

Nikon Pronea 6i incorporates a mid-roll film change feature. Mid-roll film change enables photographers to change IX240 film cartridges in the middle of a roll. This versatile feature enables switching to a film with different ISO to match the lighting conditions, or to dedicate a roll of film to a specific subject, switching film as the subject changes. Using the mid-roll film change feature is handled automatically by the Pronea 6i.. Basic and Advanced Modes

The Nikon Pronea 6i offers both a Basic and an Advanced mode, with each mode's functions indicated in the LCD panel. Basic Mode includes six program exposure control modes - portrait, sport, hyperfocal, silhouette, landscape and close-up. Also included in basic mode operation are print aspect ratio (PAR) selection, and print quantity -- a feature that allows users to indicate different quantities of prints to be made from the indicated negative -- auto exposure lock, self-timer and title/language selector.

With the Nikon Pronea 6i's Advanced Mode, all the basic features are available, plus the Advanced Mode features of multiple exposure; exposure compensation, for experimenting with more complex lighting variations; and exposure/flash bracketing, for creating a different "feel" with various exposures of the same scene. The Pronea 6i Advanced Mode also includes an Aperture Priority Auto Mode and Manual Exposure control mode.

Date Imprint

To help photographers remember details about their pictures, date and time can be printed on the front of the picture with the Pronea 6i PRINT function. Date and time are always printed on the back of the picture using the Advanced Photo System's IX System. Depending on the services offered by each photofinisher, other data that can be printed on the back includes lens aperture, film speed, shutter speed used, exposure metering mode, focal length and title (i.e. -- Christmas, birthday, wedding, vacation, etc.). Titles can be printed in different languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Japanese and more. A maximum of 80 characters can be printed on the back of the photo, and the language designation can be changed at any time. PQI and PAR

In addition to data imprint, the Nikon Pronea 6i also offers the advantages of the Advanced Photo System's picture quality improvement (PQI) and print aspect ratio (PAR). Please refer to the accompanying press information for additional details about picture quality improvement, print aspect ratio, Certified Processing Labs and more. Lens Compatibility

Among Advanced Photo System SLR cameras, the Pronea 6i offers a remarkable selection of interchangeable lenses. Nikon's AF Nikkor, AF-I Nikkor and AF-S Nikkor lenses provide exceptionally versatile optical performance. The new IX-Nikkor optics are particularly appealing with their extra-compact size and light weight.

Since Pronea 6i uses a 16.7 x 23.4mm format, it will use only a center portion of the image available from an AF Nikkor lens; this will modify the effective focal length of the AF Nikkor for use with the Advanced Photo System format. When using an AF Nikkor lens, multiply the AF Nikkor's focal length by 1.25 to determine its effective focal length used with the Pronea 6i. For example, if using an AF Nikkor 50mm lens, the effective focal length with the Pronea 6i will be 62.5mm. With a 60mm Micro lens, the effective focal length will be 75mm.

Extra-Large, Illuminated Liquid Crystal Display and Viewfinder Information Display

The Nikon Pronea 6i incorporates an extra large back panel LCD. This comprehensive, easy to read LCD displays all appropriate settings for Basic and Advanced Mode shooting. Information includes: metering modes, shooting modes, focus area (wide or sport), focus modes (Single or Continuous), multiple exposure selection, all speedlight functions, a choice of three print aspect ratios (Classic, Panorama, and H-type full-frame shots) and many other important camera settings. Pronea 6i's use of a neck strap hinge is designed so the photographer can view the extra large LCD comfortably with a neck strap attached. The LCD display can be illuminated under low light conditions and will turn off automatically after a picture is taken.

The viewfinder information display is easy to see and understand. Frame lines on Nikon's BrightView focusing screen enable photographers to compose for their selection among the Picture Aspect Ratios. For low light composition, red LEDs are used around the perimeter of the screen to highlight the PAR which has been selected. Also included in the viewfinder are: metering modes, shutter speed and aperture, an analog display for manual metering, flash ready light, and exposure compensation indicators.

Quick Recall Function

The Pronea 6i incorporates Nikon's popular QR (Quick Recall) function. Photographers can easily set their favorite combinations of modes and controls. With QR the photographer can instantly recall their choice of three pre-selected combinations of favorite camera settings. For example, if a photographer enjoys low light flash photography with special motion effects, the appropriate settings can be stored into Quick Recall. QR operation is quick, easy and intuitive.

Command Dial Control

There are two command dials on Nikon Pronea 6i for convenient camera control. The Main Command Dial is easily accessed with the photographer's thumb, and is used to control selection of shutter speeds, Flexible Program and other exposure settings. The Sub-Command Dial is operated with the photographers index finger, and is used to control the aperture, print quantity order, language codes and other functions. Along with the two command dials, there are clearly identified buttons for frequently used functions which facilitate Pronea 6i's ease of use.

Additional Features

Pronea 6i can be used with Nikon's standard AR-3 (ISO Type) Cable Release which is essential for slow shutter speed or remote operation. Pronea 6i also features a ten second self timer -- great for letting the photographer get in the picture.

Batteries and Film Capacity

The Nikon Pronea 6i is powered by two (2) 123A type 3 volt batteries. Fresh batteries should power approximately 16 rolls of 40 exposure IX240 film with 50% flash pictures. Results can vary, depending on the percentage of flash pictures taken. Fewer flash pictures will result in a significant increase in battery life.

Delivery Schedule: The Nikon Pronea 6i is scheduled for delivery during December 1996. 

NIKON USA

www.nikonusa.com