MMC Cameras

Minolta Dimage X 2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom

Minolta's Dimage X raises the stakes in the world of itty-bitty digital cameras. By incorporating a clever internal zoom lens, developing a slim new rechargeable battery, and using diminutive SD memory cards, Minolta has created a pocket-sized picture taker that's just 0.8 inches thick and has an overall volume 10 percent smaller than Canon's S110 Digital Elph.

The camera's most unusual feature is its internal zoom lens. While most digital cameras are built like their film counterparts--with a telescoping zoom lens protruding from the front--the lens assembly in the Dimage X is arranged vertically inside the camera, with the sensor at the very bottom, like a periscope in a submarine. This layout allows for a slim camera with a full 3x optical zoom. In addition, startup times are faster, since you don't have to wait for the lens to extend before shooting.

Designed primarily as a point-and-shoot, the Dimage X nevertheless has several features to satisfy more advanced users, including an uncompressed TIFF storage mode and slow-sync flash. A movie-mode feature records up to 35 seconds of video with sound.

Images are stored on stamp-size SD or MMC memory cards. Though relatively uncommon in digital cameras, this type of card is a popular choice for MP3 players, PDAs, and numerous other handheld devices, ensuring continued support for the format in the future.

Images can be transferred to your Mac or PC via USB, and the included audio-visual cable lets you view images and film clips on your home TV. A proprietary lithium-ion battery provides power--battery and charger are included.

The DiMAGE X is the ultimate in portability - and not only because of its size. Real digital photography requires many things, such as high image quality and zooming. But to combine these in an ultra-compact unit? A major technological challenge, one that demanded a new synthesis of Minolta's diverse expertise.The DiMAGE X is an achievement born of Minolta's renowned technological expertise. Packing 3x optical zoom into a body only 20mm thick is simply not possible with conventional optics. So what was needed was a groundbreaking solution - like the innovative lens system at the heart of the smallest, slimmest, and lightest 3x optical zoom camera. Brimming with extra features, the DiMAGE X is about more than size alone. You can record mini-movies with audio. It's ready to shoot at a moment's notice. And other conveniences, like a simple control layout and built-in flash, make it an ideal digital camera for work or leisure. Looking for high value? "X" marks the spot. Any way you look at it, the DiMAGE X is unique. And when you see images it captures, there's even more to be impressed with. Though superior optics and the exclusive CxProcess image processing technology, Minolta brings you the clear, vibrant colors that make the DiMAGE name special. The difference is clearly visible.

Kodak EasyShare CX4230 2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom

The Kodak CX4230 EasyShare digital camera was designed for people who love to share great-looking pictures simply. With superb color and exposure capabilities and a premium-quality lens, you'll always have crisp, sharp, colorful pictures. The on-camera Share button, and software with one-touch photo printing and organizing, means that prints and e-mails are only one step away.

The 2-megapixel CX4230 is rich with features that deliver quality pictures you'll want to share. The Kodak Retinar all-glass lens with 6x zoom gives crisp, clean close-ups. Auto white balance and exposure with matrix metering means even poorly lit pictures look great. And Kodak color science provides impeccable color prints up to 8 by 10 inches.

The Share button enables you to tag pictures right on the camera so when you dock the CX4230, they're automatically ready to print or e-mail. Select the camera's Print button and you're just one step from easy photo prints. And for e-mailing your pictures, you can store up to 32 addresses in the camera.

When it's time to transfer your pictures to your computer, connect the included USB cable to your computer, or do it with just one touch using the optional Kodak EasyShare camera dock.

The CX4230 features an internal 16 MB memory, as well as a slot for optional MultiMedia (MMC) and Secure Digital (SD) cards. It's powered by a CR-V3 lithium battery (included) or optional NiMH rechargeable batteries that are charged by the optional EasyShare dock. It comes with EasyShare software for both Windows (98, 2000, Me, or XP) and Mac (OS 8.6 or higher), USB and video-out cables, and wrist strap.

PRODUCT FEATURES:Enjoy point-and-shoot operation with flash, self timer, and optical zoom featuresDisplay, protect, and delete picturesTag your pictures for printing, emailing, and as favoritesCustomize your camera settingston, and software with one-touch photo printing and organizing, means that prints and e-mails are only one step away. The CX4230 makes printing, sharing, and organizing a snap. The CX4230 is rich with features that deliver quality pictures you'll want to share. The Kodak Retinar all-glass lens with 6X zoom gives crisp, clean close-ups. Auto white balance and exposure with matrix metering means even poorly lit pictures look great. And Kodak color science provides impeccable color prints up to 8" x 10" time after time.The Share button lets you tag pictures right on the camera so when you dock your CX4230, they're automatically ready to print or e-mail. Select "print" on the camera and you're just one step from stunning photo prints. And for e-mailing your pictures, you can store up to 32 addresses in the camera. You'll never forget to share your pictures again. With the CX4230, you can snap pictures anytime, regardless of the camera setting. You can keep on snapping, too - just expand your CX4230's memory beyond its 16MB using the MMC/SD expansion slot. When it's time to transfer your pictures to your computer, do it with just one touch using the Kodak EasyShare camera dock. The dock also recharges your camera battery automatically - so you're always ready.

Kodak EasyShare DX4330 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Powerful and packed with advanced features--yet decidedly easy to use--the Kodak DX4330 offers a 3-megapixel CCD sensor and a 3x optical zoom lens. The DX4330 also features automatic scene modes, a 16 MB internal memory, and a new indoor-outdoor LCD for reviewing your shots in even the sunniest of conditions.

Optics and Resolution
The DX4330 delivers vivid and consistent color images up to 2,160 x 1,400 pixels, which produces print sizes up to 11 by 14 inches. Zoom into the action with a 3x optical zoom, equivalent to 38-114mm in a 35mm camera. When combined with the 3.3x digital zoom, you get a total zoom of 10x. It has an aperture range of f2.8-f5.1 and a shutter speed of 1/2 to 1/1,700 of a second.

Storage and Transfer
The DX4330 is always ready to go with its 16 MB of internal memory, and it can be expanded via MultiMediaCard (MMC) and Secure Digital (SD) memory cards.

The Share button on the back of the DX4330 enables you to tag pictures right on the camera for automatic printing or e-mailing after transferring them to your PC. You can even store up to 32 e-mail addresses in the camera. With the optional Kodak EasyShare camera dock, transferring your pictures from the camera to a PC is as easy as pushing a single button. Also, when docked, the DX4330's batteries are recharged in 2.5 hours or less.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the DX4330 captures continuous video and audio, which can then be played back via the camera's LCD and built-in speaker. The limited resolution of your movies guarantees that this feature won't replace your camcorder, but it's perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

More Features
Preview and review your shots easily on the DX4330's 1.8-inch indoor-outdoor LCD, which lets you maintain exceptional viewing quality even in bright sunlight. You can also magnify shots that you review in the LCD by 2x or 4x.

From landscape to sports, easy-to-access scene modes take care of the details so you can consistently get the perfect shot. Use the DX4330's creative modes for even more photo flair.

Power
The DX4330 is powered by a CR-V3 lithium battery (included) or optional NiMH rechargeable batteries that are charged by the optional EasyShare dock. We recommend getting a set or two of rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries and a charger.

Size and Contents
The DX4330 measures 4.4 by 2.6 by 1.9 inches and weighs 7.4 ounces without batteries. This package includes the DX4330 digital camera, CR-V3 lithium battery, AV and USB cables, wrist strap, lens cap and strap, and Kodak EasyShare CD-ROM.

PRODUCT FEATURES:Capture video - in video mode, take great video clips with audio and you can take continuous clips or set the video length at 5, 15, or 30 secondsCapture still pictures - in still mode, enjoy easy point-and-shoot operationUse the zoom features to bring your subject closerThe internal memory is ideal as a safe place to keep special pictures or videosReview - in review mode, display your pictures or play your videos on the LCD screenKeep only the ones you want, magnify, protect, run a slide show of all of the pictures in your cameraSet up - in setup mode, customize your camera functions

Panasonic Lumix DMC-F7 2.1MP Digital Camera w/ Leica Lens and 2x Optical Zoom

Panasonic, a leader in digital technology, set out to create a new breed of digital camera that would combine the ease and convenience of digital utility with the expressiveness of film photography. With the goal to develop a digital camera that could render images with more warmth, subtlety and richness than any other, Panasonic sought a relationship with the definitive photographic lens expert - Leica Camera AG, the world leader in camera and lens technology. It is through this relationship that Panasonic created the Lumix digital camera, the perfect blend of digital and optical technologies. Incorporating precision-crafted Leica lenses, the new Lumix digital cameras "see" beyond the surface, capturing the elusive nuances of shadows and light. Combining the latest advances in optical and digital technologies, the Lumix cameras open the door to a new level of creativity. Now, the collaboration of Panasonic and Leica has resulted in the new Lumix digital camera, a new milestone in digital imaging products and the symbol of the finest blend of craftsmanship in both optical and digital technologiesThe Lumix DMC-F7 model features the DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens. Combining a remarkably compact size with outstanding image-rendering abilities, this lens allows comfortable, rapid shooting. The specially developed DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens system, used in the Lumix DMC-F7, combines light weight and compact size, and delivers the high performance characterized by the Elmarit name. The DMC-F7 2X Zoom lens comprises seven elements in six groups. Including two aspherical lenses, this lens system offers F2.8-F4.0 brightness and a focal distance of 5.3 mm to 10.6 mm. The 2X zoom lens system is equivalent to a 35mm to 70mm lens on a 35mm camera. The lens also features the advanced multi-coating process. The perfect balance of Leica optics and Panasonic technology illuminates the world of digital photography!

Constructed with world-renowned Leica DC lenses, Panasonic offers high-quality optics with the DMC-F7 digital camera. Pictures are sure to come out sharp and brilliant thanks to the 2-megapixel CCD sensor, capable of resolutions of up to 1,600 by 1,200 pixels and prints up to 8 by 10 inches. There are two lower-quality settings that you can use to save memory and store more pictures on the included 8 MB SD memory card.

The F7 has an optical zoom of 2x and a 2x digital zoom, making the overall zoom capable of magnifying an image up to four times. The camera has several automatic and manual controls for focus, exposure, white balance, and flash. It also has a feature that allows you to take consecutive pictures at a fast rate (5 frames per second), ideal for those hard-to-capture moving objects and similar to regular full-motion video. Use the large 1.5-inch LCD monitor to keep track of all these settings and manage your photos.

Since the camera has full USB connectivity, you can easily transfer your photos onto a PC or Mac. Photo-editing software is also included for more creative uses of your photos. Also included in the package are an AC adapter, battery pack, video and USB cable, and strap.

Leica Digilux 1 3.9MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

What does the LEICA DIGILUX1 have in common with the LEICA I of 1925? With its outstanding optical quality, high speed and mobility, the first Leica soon became a successful reportage camera and it paved the way for the enormous growth of 35 mm photography. Outstanding optical quality, high speed and mobility are also the characteristics of the digital reportage camera LEICA DIGILUX1. The result of intensive technological cooperation with Panasonic, it combines modern digital technology with the optical know-how of Leica. Classic elements of design and operating convenience make the LEICA DIGILUX1 a synthesis of experience and innovation. It is an extraordinary, fast and easy-to-use digital camera with outstanding imaging quality that gives photographers many new creative possibilities. And that, above all and in every respect, makes it a typical Leica.

With classic elements of design, operating convenience, and technical advancements, the Leica Digilux 1 digital camera shares the outstanding optical quality, speed, and mobility of the original Leica 1 film camera from 1925. The Digilux 1 is made for the 21st century, with a 4-megapixel CCD sensor, high-speed aspherical Leica lens with 3x optical zoom, and a large 2.5-inch LCD for reviewing your photos.

Optics and Resolution
Because outstanding image quality can only be achieved through the optimal interplay of all components, the lens was tailored specifically to the 4-megapixel sensor in order to make full use of the optical and electronic capabilities. The Digilux 1 features a Leica DC Vario-Summicron 3x aspherical zoom lens with a range of focal lengths from 7-21mm, corresponding to a zoom range of 33-100mm on analog 35mm cameras. The speed of the lens is f2 to f2.5.

The Digilux 1 offers five alternatives for exposure control: fully automatic mode, programmed automatic mode, aperture priority, speed priority, and a setting for manual mode. It's also equipped with a ring for manual focusing so that you can get the best results from close-ups.

Camera Display
The 2.5-inch LCD screen on the back of the Digilux 1 is 50 to 90 percent larger than those on comparable cameras. Its size is ideal for meticulous picture evaluation and its 205,000 resolution makes manual focusing much easier. The attachable monitor hood makes good picture evaluation possible even in daylight. The Digilux 1 also features an optical viewfinder with diopter compensation.

Camera Speed
On many digital cameras, there are delays between the switching on of the camera and its readiness to shoot, as well as between the activation of the shutter release and the actual exposure. The Digilux 1 has been optimized for speed, enabling you to photograph spontaneously and be ready to shoot continuously. You can also make exposure sequences of up to eight pictures at a rate of approximately four exposures per second.

Movie Mode
Video sequences are recorded in the Apple QuickTime format in a size of 320 x 240 pixels. The length of the video recordings is limited only by the capacity of the memory card. With the 64 MB Secure Digital card that is supplied with the camera, the video recording time lasts for approximately six minutes.

Storage and Transfer
The 64 MB SD card can store 32 images with the highest resolution and lowest compression or up to 484 pictures with low resolution at the highest compression.

Power
The Digilux 1 features a powerful rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The included AC adapter/battery charger can charge the Digilux 1 in about two hours. With the monitor display switched on, the Digilux 1 can be operated for approximately two hours, or for approximately three hours with the monitor display turned off.

Size
The Digilux 1 measures 5 by 2.25 by 2.6 inches and weighs 16 ounces with battery.

Contents
This package comprises the Digilux 1 digital camera, a 64 MB Secure Digital card, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, a hood for the LCD, AV and USB cables, a carrying strap, Adobe Photoshop Elements 1.0, and USB drivers for Windows and Mac.

Kodak DX3700 EasyShare 3MP Digital Camera

For maximum print quality at a minimum price, look no further than the DX3700. With most manufacturers, camera resolution and features go hand-in-hand: basic point-and-shoot models typically come with low-resolution image sensors, while high-resolution cameras are packed with bells and whistles that add to the product's price and complexity. The DX3700 is different. It's a basic point-and-shoot with few advanced features, but its sensor is a high-resolution 3.1-megapixel model for sharp prints at 8 by 10 inches and beyond. If you're looking for an affordable camera that captures sharp, detailed digital snapshots, the DX3700 is a great choice.

Because the DX3700 is designed for ease of use, it offers photographers few manual controls. The flash can be set to on, off, auto, or red-eye reduction, and the focus can be set to macro (for extreme close-ups) or standard. Otherwise, the camera automatically adjusts all settings. There's also a digital zoom, which makes objects appear closer, but be aware that the camera does this by cropping away the outer edges of a photo and enlarging what's left, reducing the image quality of the zoomed photo. It's a handy feature, and the photos still look clear, but your zoomed photos won't have the same detail as those taken with a 3-megapixel camera with optical zoom.

As with all EasyShare cameras, an optional dock makes it even easier to transfer pictures and keep your camera's batteries charged.

A word about memory cards: to keep costs low, the camera uses internal memory for image storage. If you're taking pictures at the camera's highest quality setting, you'll be able to take around eight photos before filling the memory, necessitating a trip to your computer to transfer the images, erase the memory, and start shooting again. If you're looking for more capacity, the camera uses either MMC (MultiMediaCard) or SD (Secure Digital) cards for additional storage. The two cards look the same and, in a digital camera, function identically (the SD cards offer some additional copyright management features when used with MP3 music players). Among memory cards, there are currently several competing formats, including CompactFlash, SmartMedia, and Memory Stick. Though MMC/SD is a relatively unusual format for digital cameras, it is popular in MP3 players, camcorders (for "digital still" mode), and some models of Palm handhelds. Large-capacity cards are readily available--a 128 MB card, for example, holds over 100 photos.

The DX3700 comes with disposable batteries, video cable (for viewing photos on a TV), USB cable (for transferring images to your computer), wrist strap, lens cap, software, manual, and a custom insert for use with the optional docking station. Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but to make the most of your camera, we recommend getting a carrying case, a higher-capacity MMC or SD memory card, and either a set of rechargeable batteries or the EasyShare dock. Compatible accessories are listed higher up on this page.

For crystal-clear prints and simple operation at an affordable price, the DX3700 is an excellent choice.

Life's spontaneous. So you need a camera that can capture all of its special moments. Check out the EasyShare DX3700. It has 3.1MP resolution for excellent picture quality - for those pictures you'll want to share with family and friends. And when it comes to getting closer to the fun, the 3X digital zoom does the job.The DX3700 has 8MB of internal memory built right in so you'll never miss a shot. If you've filled your camera to capacity but there are still great pictures to be taken, don't worry - the DX3700 has a MultiMedia Card/Secure Digital memory card (MMC/SD) expansion slot, so you'll have plenty of memory to keep on shooting with optional MMC/SD memory cards.h optional MMC/SD memory cards.If you use the optional Kodak EasyShare Camera Dock, sharing is just as easy. Simply place your DX3700 in the dock, touch the button, and pictures are automatically sent to your computer ready for e-mailing and printing. The Camera Dock will also recharge your camera's battery pack, so you'll always be ready to take more pictures.

Kyocera Finecam S4 4MP Digital Camera w 3x Optical Zoom

The Kyocera S4 packs a load of features into a digital camera that slips comfortably into your shirt pocket--it's barely over 3 inches wide and weighs less than 6 ounces. The 4.3-megapixel sensor captures sharp and vibrant images with a resolution of up to 2,272 by 1,704 pixels, which means you can create prints up to 11 by 14 inches in size without compromising quality. The lens has a 3x optical zoom sufficient for most purposes, and the 2x digital zoom yields a total zoom of 6x and opens up more photographic possibilities.

Functions such as flash, exposure, focus, and white balance are fully automatic, but you can easily switch to manual for greater control. The Kyocera also captures full-motion movies in AVI format at a resolution of 320 by 240 pixels. The included 16 MB Secure Digital memory card can hold 64 photos and about two 15-second movies. You can keep track of all your camera and memory settings using the large 1.5-inch LCD monitor. Quickly and easily transfer all of your work into any computer with a USB connection.

Kodak EasyShare LS420 2MP Digital Camera with Dock

Kodak's LS420 represents something new in the world of digital cameras--it's the first quality ultracompact aimed directly at the point-and-shoot crowd. Its size and shape are appealing, and the simplicity of its controls makes it a great choice for those who like to take pictures but don't want to deal with the more technical aspects of digital photography.

Optics and Resolution
The LS420 features a 2-megapixel sensor that captures enough detail for crisp 8-by-10-inch prints. For the typical family photographer, 2 megapixels is a great balance between price and performance. If you want a camera with even more resolution, you'll need to step up to 3 or 4 megapixels--Kodak's 3-megapixel DX3900 and 4-megapixel DX4900 are designed to be as easy to use as the LS420, though they aren't as sleek or compact.

The Kodak all-glass aspheric focus-free lens has a focal length equivalent to 38mm in film cameras and an aperture of f3.9. To get closer to the action, there's a 3x digital telephoto zoom, but remember that digital zoom tends to reduce the sharpness and detail of your image, so it's best used sparingly.

To compose your images, either use the traditional camera viewfinder or the 1.6-inch LCD display (which is also used to review the shots you've taken). Having both types of viewfinders offers the best of both worlds: if you're used to using a film camera or want to conserve battery life, use the viewfinder. If you want to see exactly the picture you'll be capturing, use the LCD display.

Operation and Design
At a mere 4.3 by 1.8 by 1.1 inches, the camera feels similar in dimensions to a cell phone or remote control--it's long and slim, and it slips easily into a purse or pocket. Despite its light weight, the camera still feels solid and reasonably rugged in the hands. A sliding power switch on top of the unit simultaneously retracts the integrated lens cover and turns the camera on. After a few moments of "warming up," the camera is ready for use. Most functions are menu-driven and are selected by a joystick-style controller on the back of the camera.

Features
The LS420 is clearly designed for point-and-shooters. Adjustments are limited to setting features like resolution, flash mode, and the self-timer.

Power
Power is provided by the same slim rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack that has been showing up in more and more ultracompact consumer electronics, including the Minolta DiMAGE X, Pentax Optio 330 and 430, Panasonic's SV-AV10 mini camcorder, and the Sharp Zaurus handheld. It's a great little battery, holding the same amount of power as substantially larger packs found in some other digital cameras. Battery life varies greatly, depending mostly upon how much time you leave the LCD display on between shots and how much you use the flash. Even with the LCD on and frequent flash pictures, a typical user should be able to take 50 photos without any problems.

Because the battery charges automatically whenever the camera is docked, the typical owner will never have to think about it after it's inserted in the LS420 the first time. Just leave the camera in the dock, and you'll always have a full charge when you're ready to shoot. The dock also provides power when you're transferring pictures to your computer.

If you're going on an extended vacation or take more than 50 pictures at a time, you'll want to pick up a spare battery and, for more convenient charging, a separate battery charger.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the camera captures video clips with sound. Most cameras can only shoot for a limited amount of time (often 30 seconds) before filling the buffer, but the LS420 lets you keep shooting as long as you have memory available. Movies are shot at 320 x 240 pixels (approximately VHS quality) with a frame rate of around 19 frames per second. Camcorders offer both higher resolution and faster frame rates, but this feature is perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

Storage and Transfer
The camera stores images in its 8 MB of internal memory. Memory capacity of 8 MB is enough for 12 high-resolution pictures, 49 low-resolution pictures, around 35 seconds of high-quality video, or some combination of each. Since most people will use the included dock to transfer photos to the computer, internal memory works as well as a removable card. If you plan to use a dedicated card reader (for example, a USB reader to let you put pictures on your laptop while on the go), or plan to take more photos than the internal memory can hold, an expansion slot lets you add an MMC or SD memory card. A 64 MB card holds around 100 high-quality images, four minutes of highest-quality video, or a combination of the two.

Size
The LS420 is just 4.3 by 1.8 by 1.1 inches and 5.6 ounces, making it one of the smallest and lightest digital cameras on the market.

Contents and Recommended Accessories
The package includes the camera with 8 MB internal memory, EasyShare docking station, AC adapter/charger (for use with dock), battery, carrying case, cables, neck strap, and software on CD.

Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we recommend a higher-capacity card to make the most of your camera. If you're planning to be away from the dock for extended periods, a spare battery is also a good choice. Compatible accessories for this camera are listed near the top of this page. --Shane Burnett

Pros:

• Tiny, lightweight, and easy to use
• Focus-free lens means fast startups and quick operation between shots
• Docking station makes image transfers and battery charging a snap
• Movie mode is better than on many cameras--includes sound and unlimited recording time

Cons:

• Lack of manual features could frustrate advanced photographers
• Internal memory is more limiting than removable cards, though the camera does include a slot for removable MMC or SD cards.

Marketing description is not available.a lets you take pictures of your life. It fits anywhere, goes anyplace, and does just about anything. The LS420 has video and audio capabilities and is provided with an on-camera flash/print button. And with a Kodak aspheric, all-glass lens, and continuous 3X digital zoom, it will get you close to the action too. After all, isn't that the best place to be?

Minolta Dimage F100 4MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Minolta has packed quite a punch into the compact, 4-megapixel DiMAGE F100, adding a 7.5x total zoom, movie mode, and audio recording capability so you can leave yourself notes about your shots. Even better, Minolta has done a great job of making the camera fun and easy to use, which is essential in any camera, but invaluable in today's crowded compact digital-camera market.

The 4-megapixel resolution of the F100 produces very large images that are fantastic for prints larger than 11 by 14 inches. Thankfully, the F100 allows you to step down the resolution to a more manageable 2-megapixel level (1,600 x 1,200 pixels) if you need the space on your memory card.

Its 3x optical zoom lens aids in photo composition, and an additional 2.5x digital zoom (7.5x total) further magnifies your image. Remember, however, that digital zoom reduces the sharpness and detail of your image, so it's best used sparingly.

Minolta built in some great autofocus features to help make your life easier, including wide-focus area autofocus, and spot-focus areas with focus-area selection (which enables you choose a specific, narrow focus field). During our testing, the autofocus worked beautifully, and we never ended up with our target out of focus.

The F100 uses AA batteries and, disappointingly, comes with a set of disposables. We used the camera at a family gathering over the course of a weekend, and the batteries held up fine, so the power drain isn't as horrendous as in past digital cameras. Ideally, though, you'll want to buy a set of rechargeables, to help preserve your sanity, pocketbook, and the environment.

Overall, the DiMAGE F100 performs admirably and is the perfect size to carry just about anywhere. --Michael Lewis

Pros:

• 4-megapixel resolution produces fantastically rich prints up to 11 x 14 inches
• Nice bonuses, including movie mode and audio recording for notes to yourself
• 7.5x total zoom
• Compact size

Cons:

• 3x optical zoom is serviceable, but you can always use more
• Includes disposable batteries--you'll want to add rechargeables

Take the quick and easy route to high-quality images with the stylish 4-megapixel Minolta DiMAGE F100.

Optics and Resolution
With its 4 million effective pixels, the DiMAGE F100 captures sharp, detail-rich images. At this level of resolution, you can turn your shots into photo-quality prints that are larger than postcards or even enlargements of up to 11 by 14 inches.

A wide zoom range is an essential tool for framing the shot you're looking for. The F100 offers 3x optical zoom, with a range covering the equivalent of 38mm to 114mm on a 35mm film camera. When you've reached the limit of the optical zoon, the F100 then shifts into its digital zoom, providing an added 2.5x magnification--for a total of 7.5x zoom and a telescopic 285mm (equivalent) focal length.

The F100 features area AF (autofocus), which automatically follows the movement of your subject within the autofocus area, switching the active focusing block to make sure the subject stays sharp. Camera response is further enhanced by rapid autofocusing via to the ultrafast ASIC circuitry, a sophisticated focusing algorithm, and quick lens adjustment. You'll get focusing speeds of approximately 0.35 seconds at the widest lens angle and approx. 0.5 seconds in telephoto (1 meter).

More Features
A movie mode captures video clips with sound. Depending upon resolution, these clips can last up to 35 seconds. Movie files are recorded in JPEG format (320 x 240 pixels). The limited length and resolution of these clips guarantees that this feature won't replace your camcorder, but it's perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

The F100 is also equipped with audio-only recording, which can be a convenient tool for taking notes. A single clip can be 30 minutes long, and is stored as an 8-bit uncompressed wave file. Playback is not included.

Keep a record of where and when you took a particular shot by adding an audio caption to it. Captions are recorded after image capture, and can be 5 or 15 seconds long.

The built-in flash features a TTL (through-the-lens) flash metering system, and has a variety of selectable flash modes. When the camera is set to auto, you have four modes to choose from: auto, manual fill-flash, red-eye reduction, and flash cancel.

Power
The included CR-V3 lithium battery provides power. You can also use a pair of AA batteries.

We recommend getting a set or two of rechargeable nickel metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries and a charger. A digital camera is power intensive, especially if you're using the camera's LCD display, so they aren't recommended except in a pinch. To ensure you'll always be ready for action, we recommend having two sets of rechargeables so you can always have one set in the camera and the other set in the charger.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on Secure Digital memory cards. Consider the included 16 MB card a starter capacity, since its 14-picture limit means you'll need to return to your computer often to transfer images and free up the card for more pictures. A 64 MB card will store nearly 60 images taken in standard mode at a 1,600 x 1,200 resolution.

To transfer images to your computer, simply attach the included USB cable between your PC and your camera. Your computer should automatically recognize your camera and let you move the pictures to your hard drive.

Size
The DiMAGE F100 is easy to carry around on all your photo expeditions, coming in at just 4.4 by 2.2 by 1.3 inches and 6.5 ounces.

Contents and Recommended Accessories
The package includes the DiMAGE F100 camera, CR-V3 battery, AV and USB cables, hand strap, software suite, and 16 MB Secure Digital memory card.

Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we strongly recommend the addition of a larger memory card, an extra set of rechargeable NiMH batteries and battery charger, and a compact carrying case (for protection and to keep pocket lint out of the viewfinder).

HP PS320 2 MP Digital Camera

Enjoy solid performance with the easy-to-use HP Photosmart 320 digital camera, featuring 2.1-megapixel resolution--for quality prints up to 8 by 10 inches--and a 4x digital zoom. And with the HP Instant Share feature, you can select up to 14 destinations to deliver your digital photos the next time you connect to your computer, including e-mail addresses, printers, and more.

Optics and Resolution
Featuring a CCD sensor with 2.1 million effective pixels, the Photosmart 320 creates images up to 1,600 x 1,200 pixels and prints up to 8 by 10 inches. Like with many other entry-level digital models, HP keeps the price low by using a focus-free lens with no optical zoom. A 4x digital zoom does bring your shooting subject closer like an optical zoom, but at the expense of image detail.

Storage and Transfer
Store photos using the 8 MB internal memory. The Photosmart 320 also features a Secure Digital slot for optional SD memory cards.

Movie Mode
In addition to taking still photos, the Photosmart 320 can also record silent-movie clips of up to 30 seconds at a frame rate of 15 fps. The QuickTime Motion JPEG format offers a limited resolution, which is great for capturing a short movie that can be e-mailed to friends and family, but is no replacement for a true camcorder.

More Features
With the optional HP Photosmart 8881 digital camera dock (which includes 4 rechargeable NiMH batteries), you can connect easily to your PC or TV, plus recharge your camera batteries. This version of the Photosmart 320 includes the camera dock.

You can easily print photos directly from your camera to an optional HP Photosmart, HP PSC 950 all in one, or HP Deskjet (excludes 600 series) printer with USB connectivity--no PC required.

Other features include:

• Built-in flash with red-eye reduction.
• 1.5-inch backlit LCD display for preview and review of photos, battery levels, photo counter, and flash modes.
• 10-second timer

Power, Size, and Contents
The camera is powered by four standard AA batteries. We recommend a set of rechargeable NiMH batteries. It measures 4.4 by 1.7 by 2.7 inches and weighs 5.6 ounces. This package includes the Photosmart 320 digital camera, four AA alkaline batteries, USB cable, hand strap, and a CD-ROM with HP Photo & Imaging software and USB drivers for Windows and Mac.

HP Photosmart 320 is a supreme digital camera with direct printing capability. Get the great results for sharing photos with 2 MP total resolution and 4x digital zoom. Just snap a photo, then push a button to choose which of your 15 favorite places this pic should be sent to - including printers, e-mail addresses and more. Capture memories as they happen and complete them with action using the video clip feature.