By Ian Burley
3rd October - 2001
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Canon UK has today launched a pair of slimline 3 and 4 megapixel digicams; the PowerShot S30 and S40 models, respectively. The new low profile design shared by both models, complete with sliding protective lens cover, marks a new departure in terms of style and presentation for Canon.
We had an opportunity to try some pre-production samples today. They look and feel solidly constructed with their two tone metal finish. As with the current Digital IXUS models, Canon has ensured that the S30 and S40 power up very promptly and the claimed shutter firing delay after pressing the shutter release is just a tenth of a second.
You also get continuous burst mode shooting at full resolution of 3 frames per second with the S30 and 2.5fps with the S40. The shutter speed range is 15 seconds to 1/1500th second and the aperture range of the 3X optical zoom lens (35-105 equivalent) is f/2.8/4.9-f/8.0.
There are features to appeal to enthusiasts, like the inclusion of a RAW file image recording mode to preserve as much picture information as possible. Both Type I and Type II Compact Flash cards can be used, including IBM Microdrives. If that’s not enough there is three zone autoficus and a range of pre-programmed scene selection exposure option choices, plus full manual override.
For such little cameras, the new S30 and S40 pack an impressive specification. And the prices look about right too, with the S30 at £549 and the S40 at £649. Both will ship in the UK at the end of this month.
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DPN News service
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