Saturday, June 30, 2012

JVC Rugged ADIXXION Camcorder Review

JVC enters action cam market with rugged Adixxion camcorder and the waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and freezeproof little camera does everything expected for the category and throws in Wi-Fi for good measure. Leveraging its decades-long digital imaging prowess evidenced in models like the ProHD cams and GC-PX10 hybrid, the company says that its new small and lightweight video recorder includes a range of features that leaves the competition behind. Highlights include four levels of rugged protection, built-in Wi-Fi, a Super Wide lens, and Full HD video recording, the GC-XA1 has been waterproofed to a depth of 16.4 feet (5 m), is able to withstand a fall from 6.5 feet (2 m), and is both dust- and freeze-proof. It's a collection of all-round ruggedness that JVC is calling Quad Proof and means that the camcorder can record 1920 x 1080/30p video at 30 frames per second (fps) to MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format, or 60 fps at 720p, in a variety of action scenarios without the need for optional housing to protect it from the elements. Also on-board is WiFi and a 1.5-inch LCD monitor and the amcorder can do HD video, five megapixel stills and has 5x digital zoom.



A new "action camera" announced by JVC offers unmatched versatility right out of the box, with standard features that have JVC's new GC-XA1 ADIXXION camcorder ready to capture the fun in most any situation. The new JVC GC-XA1 ADIXXION ups the ante in the action camera category by offering a range of features and capabilities that outpace competing models. Truly pocket-sized and weighing barely a quarter pound, ADIXXION is waterproof to a depth of five meters (16.4 feet), shockproof to withstand a fall from two meters (6.5 feet), dustproof and freeze-proof, all without the need for a separate housing. In addition, ADIXXION includes built-in Wi-Fi, 1.5-inch LCD monitor, image stabilizer and offers full HD 1920×1080/30p and 1280×720/60p recording. With the introduction of ADIXXION, JVC brings its decades-long expertise in digital imaging to a category that has seen growing popularity recently as more people want to capture their snowboarding, surfing, mountain biking or just about any other activity, whether on the slopes or with the family at the waterpark. What JVC brings to the category is a camera that comes loaded with standard features compared to competing models and one that can tackle a wide range of activities right out of the box with no need for an optional housing. ADIXXION comes with two mounts – a goggle mount and a flexible mount suitable for a wide range of applications, including use on a helmet or surfboard. A wide range of optional accessories are available, including specialized mounts. In addition to its water/shock/dust/freeze-proof design – what JVC dubs "Quad Proof" – ADIXXION features a 1.5-inch LCD monitor built into the side of the camera so it's easy to check footage in the field without the extra weight and bulk of an external monitor. The camera body features a scratch-resistant rubber texture, and there are two standard tripod sockets for easy mounting in a variety of locations. It weighs a mere 0.28 lbs. (126 grams). Built-in Wi-Fi opens up a range of possibilities, including wireless connection to a smartphone that can be used to monitor the image – great for framing the shot when the camera is mounted on a helmet or other location where the user can't see the LCD. Wi-Fi also makes it possible to send images live to a PC or mobile hotspot, or transfer data to a PC for sharing via social networks. What's more, ADIXXION can stream live high definition video in real time to USTREAM without a PC. Android and iOS apps are available for free download, while Wi-Video PC software is supplied with the camera. Video recording resolutions range from Full HD to WVGA, and all video is recorded as QuickTime-compatible MP4 files that can be easily viewed on computers and smartphones. Digital image stabilization minimizes camera shake, and the camera includes rolling shutter cancellation that corrects the image skewing that can occur with CMOS image sensors. The result is distortion-free images, even during fast-moving scenes. A built-in HDMI terminal allows easy connection to HDTVs. Other features include ultra-wide lens, time lapse recording at intervals of 1 or 5 seconds, digital 5x zoom, 5 megapixel stills, white balance (auto/manual), exposure (auto), and self-timer functions. The GC-XA1 comes with a goggle mount, flexible mount, two lens protection covers, a USB cable and battery. A wide variety of optional accessories is available, including roll bar and handle bar mounts. The JVC GC-XA1 ADIXXION action camera will be available in late summer for $349.95.

Samsung WB100 Camera With 26x Lens For Zoom-Loving Brits Review

Samsung has introduced a new camera into its range, the WB100. It’s designed to capture high quality images while maintaining a compact form factor and the camera comes with a 26x optical zoom as well as a 22.3mm wide angle lens with the sensor capable of capturing 16.2-megapixels. On top of that, there’s 720p/30 video recording, and Samsung has included a Dual Image Stabilisation mode to reduce soft photos as a result of shaky hands and other amera features include a 3D photo mode as well as a Live Panorama Mode. ISO can be set between 80 and 1600, with a 3200 option that’s only available with 3-megapixel images and the camera packs a 3-inch display on the back, and also has a HDMI v1.4 output plus a traditional A/V camera jack. Samsung says the camera should be available in July for around €219 (~$275).



Samsung announced the WB100, the latest addition to the prestigious WB series, known for delivering superior image quality in compact form. The WB100 is perfect for shooting dynamic images and capturing the smallest detail in stunning 16MP clarity. The WB100 is the perfect travel companion, ideally designed to capture everything from the up-close detail of inspiring architecture, to impressive landscapes and scenery. The 26x Optical High Zoom lens and 22.3mm ultra wide-angle lens ensure flawless detail, while shaky shots are instantly altered with the Dual Image Stabilisation (OIS + DIS) function. With 720/30pHD video recording, users can enjoy high-quality playback on the latest high-definition displays, whilst 3D photo capture and Live Panorama Mode bring 3D images and panoramic views to life. Not only does the WB100 deliver superior quality images but it is also easy to use. Its easily-navigated menu screen makes it a versatile camera, designed to capture clear and beautiful photos with ease. Available in Black or Red, it is a stylish camera with a range of creative features including Smart Filter and Magic Frame, designed to enhance image quality along with the shooting experience. The soft hand grip combined with the metallic design gives it a sleek and seamless look. Combining high image performance, creative functionality and style, the WB100 is the ideal camera for those looking to capture their world in perfect detail.

specs:

  • Point and shoot
  •  
  • 26x (optical)
  •  
  • 16 megapixels
  •  
  • June 29, 2012

General

  • Point and shoot
  • 26x (optical)

Sensor

  • 16 megapixels
  • Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600

Flash

  • Internal

Viewfinder

  • LCD
  • LCD (Active, Color, Backlit)
  • Yes

Image formats

  • Yes
  • 1280 x 720 (720p)

Power

  • AA

Pricing & availability

  • Pre-release
  • June 29, 2012

Colors

Point Grey World's Smallest 4K USB 3.0 Camera Review

4K resolution video will be the next big technological leap as far as film and television goes, but it doesn't take a massive, expensive camera like the RED Epic to shoot 4K resolution video and Point Grey's Flea3 webcam equipped with a Sony Exmor R sensor is up to the task but is hardly bigger than an inch in any direction. Sony’s new IMX121 sensor with Exmor R back-illuminated CMOS architecture that offers high sensitivity and dynamic range for sharp color images and the amera measures only 29mm x 29mm x 30mm or about 1-inch cubed. The small size makes the camera especially suitable for fitting in tight spaces such as in common industrial imaging, such as automatic optical inspection, ophthalmology, interactive multimedia, and broadcasting and the USB 3.0 connector guarantees delivery of critical image data through USB 3.0 bulk transfers of 5Gb/s and also delivers power so that no other external power sources or cables are needed.



Point Grey, one of the world's largest and most innovative manufacturers of industrial digital cameras for machine vision, bioscience, traffic, and GIS applications releases an innovative new model to its popular line of Flea3 USB 3.0 cameras. This new model leverages the bandwidth capabilities of USB 3.0 by delivering 4096 x 2160 color images at 21 FPS (185 MByte/s) in an ice-cube sized, low-cost package. "This camera is our latest innovation; we packed a high quality 8.8 MP, 4K2K sensor into the Flea3 and did it at an unbeatable price-point." The FL3-U3-88S2C features Sony's new IMX121 sensor with "Exmor R" back-illuminated CMOS architecture. By increasing quantum efficiency and reducing noise, "Exmor R" improves sensitivity and dynamic range for sharp, high-quality color images. The impressive 4K2K resolution combined with the ease of USB 3.0 and the camera's small size makes the new Flea3 suitable for a variety of high resolution color applications including automatic optical inspection, ophthalmology, interactive multimedia, and broadcast. "Since demonstrating the world's first USB 3.0 camera in 2009, Point Grey continues to push the boundaries of imaging technology," explains Michael Gibbons, Director of Sales and Marketing. Mr. Gibbons adds, "This camera is our latest innovation; we packed a high quality 8.8 MP, 4K2K sensor into the Flea3 and did it at an unbeatable price-point." Point Grey's Flea3 camera line measures just 29 x 29 x 30mm and provides a unique set of features dedicated to maximizing USB 3.0 reliability, including a 32 megabyte frame buffer; on-camera power, temperature, and status monitoring; and in-field updatable firmware. The camera also provides color interpolation, look up table, gamma correction, and pixel binning functionality. The Flea3 FL3-U3-88S2C-C (color) model is list priced at USD $945 and is available to order now from Point Grey and its network of distributors.

Specifitions: 

Flea3 USB 3.0 System Requirements:
• Windows 7 32- or 64-bit
• Intel Core i3 3.1 GHz or comparable processor
• 2 GB RAM
• PCIe 2.0-compatible host controller with USB 3.0 connector
• NVIDIA GeForce6 video card with 128 MB RAM
• Microsoft Visual Studio 2005 SP1 and SP1 Update for Vista (to compile and run example code)
For a full list of compatible and tested hardware please refer to KB Article 368
"C/M" indicates both color and monochrome sensor options are available for this model number. Full model numbers are available here
 MODELMEGAPIXELSIMAGING SENSORMAX RESMAX FPSPIXEL SIZE
AvailableFL3-U3-13S2C/M-CS 1.3 MPSony IMX035 CMOS, 1/3", Mono/Color, Rolling Shutter1328x1048120 FPS3.63 µm
AvailableFL3-U3-13Y3M-C 1.3 MPOn Semi VITA1300 CMOS, 1/2", Mono, Global Shutter1280x1024150 FPS4.8 µm
AvailableFL3-U3-32S2C/M-CS3.2 MPSony IMX036 CMOS, 1/2.8", Mono/Color, Rolling Shutter with Global Reset2080x155260 FPS2.5 µm
AvailableFL3-U3-88S2C-C8.8 MPSony IMX121 CMOS, 1/2.5", Color, Rolling Shutter4096x216021 FPS1.55 µm

A/D Converter12-bit; 10-bit FL3-U3-13Y3
Video Data Output8, 12, 16 and 24-bit digital data
Image Data FormatsY8, Y16, Mono8, Mono12, Mono16 (all models) RGB8, YUV411, YUV422, YUV444, Raw8, Raw12, Raw16 (color models)
Partial Image ModesPixel binning and region of interest (ROI) modes
Image ProcessingGamma, lookup table, hue, saturation, and sharpness
GainAutomatic*/Manual/One-Push* Gain modes (*Free running only)
0 dB to 24 dB (0 db to 18 db FL3-U3-13Y3)
Gamma0.50 to 4.00
White BalanceAutomatic/manual modes, programmable via software
Color ProcessingOn-camera in YUV or RGB format, or on-PC in Raw format
Digital InterfaceUSB 3.0 interface with screw locks for camera control, data, and power
Transfer Rates5 Gbit/s
GPIO8-pin Hirose HR25 GPIO connector for power, trigger, strobe, PWM, and serial I/O: 1 opto-isolated input, 1 opto-isolated output, 2 bi-directional I/O pins
External Trigger ModesIIDC Trigger Modes 0, 1, and 15
Synchronizationvia external trigger or software trigger
ShutterRolling Shutter (FL3-U3-13S2, FL3-U3-88S2) ; Global Reset (FL3-U3-32S2); Global Shutter (FL3-U3-13Y3)
Automatic*/Manual/One-Push*/Extended Shutter** modes (*Free running only) (**except FL3-U3-13Y3)
0.008 ms to 1 second (FL3-U3-13S2) / 0.006 ms to 1 second (FL3-U3-13Y3) / 0.01 ms to 32 seconds (FL3-U3-32S2) / 0.021 ms to 1 second (FL3-U3-88S2)
Image Buffer32 MB frame buffer
Memory Channels2 memory channels for custom camera settings
Flash Memory1 MB
Dimensions29 x 29 x 30 mm excluding lens holder (metal case)
Mass52 g FL3-U3-13S2, FL3-U3-32S2 / 58 g FL3-U3-13Y3, FL3-U3-88S2 (without optics)
Power Consumption5 V, <3 W, via GPIO or USB 3.0 interface
Camera SpecificationIIDC v1.32
Camera Controlvia FlyCapture SDK, CSRs, or third party software
Camera UpdatesIn-field firmware updates
Lens MountCS-mount: FL3-U3-13S2, FL3-U3-32S2 / C-mount: FL3-U3-13Y3, FL3-U3-88S2
Operating Temperature0° to 45°C
Storage Temperature-30° to 60°C
Emissions ComplianceCE, FCC, RoHS
Operating SystemWindows 7 32- or 64-bit
WarrantyTwo years
Development Kit Contents
The Flea3 USB 3.0 camera does not offer a Development Kit
Emissions and RoHS Compliance
CE, FCC, RoHS



Video:

Friday, June 29, 2012

Canon EOS 7D Firmware Version 2.0.X Upgrade Review

Canon is offering up a bevy of new features for the camera with its soon to be released, free 2.0.X update and this update will brings the EOS 7D up to speed with the best technologies Canon has to offer, delivering performance and features befitting the flagship APS-C EOS DSLR. Firmware Version 2.0.X keeps the EOS 7D on the cutting edge of technological innovation by adding user-requested innovations developed for Canon’s high-end EOS cameras: A higher maximum burst rate for continuous shooting, definable maximum limit for ISO Auto, compatibility with the Canon GPS Receiver GP-E2, and manual audio level adjustment during video shooting and during review. Additional enhanced features include faster scrolling of magnified images, quick control during playback, in-camera RAW image processing, JPEG image resizing and ratings, plus customization of file names and time zone settings. A significant upgrade, Firmware Version 2.0.X raises the performance on one of the most popular Canon EOS DSLRs ever created.



Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions announced a firmware update for the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera that adds new functionality to improve its performance for serious photographers and semi-professional users. The update, free to all EOS 7D owners, gives the camera more advanced shooting options, including an increase in the maximum number of burst images taken in the RAW file format (from 15i frames to 25ii frames) as well as the ability to process RAW image files directly in the camera and the option to set a maximum ISO setting in ISO Auto mode. The firmware also adds the ability to adjust up to 64 audio levels manually prior to recording video, supports custom file naming, and allows for compatibility with Canon's newly introduced, optional GPS Receiver GP-E2. "By introducing this firmware we want our customers to know that we are always looking to enhance the user experience for all of our current products in the marketplace," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. "The latest firmware for the EOS 7D Digital SLR enhances the capabilities of the camera and brings new possibilities to its users, making it a more valuable tool for their craft." For budding action photographers who use the EOS 7D as their camera of choice, being able to capture the perfect shot comes down to a matter of milliseconds. The EOS 7D is capable of taking photos at a high-speed burst rate of up to 8 frames per second (fps). With the firmware installed the camera captures up to 25 consecutive frames when shooting in RAW and up to 17iii consecutive frames when taking RAW+JPEG images. Once the firmware is installed the EOS 7D will also be able to process RAW images directly in the camera, allowing dynamic adjustment of exposure compensation, white balance, picture style, noise reduction at high ISO speeds, distortion correction, and other processing parameters. For mobile photographers, this ability to adjust RAW images quickly and re-save them as JPEG files can be a huge time-saver as opposed to downloading files to a computer and making adjustments later. The camera will also be able to re-size JPEG image files in-camera. These features will be accessible through the Quick Control functions which will be accessible while the camera is in playback mode. When viewing images on the camera, image files can also be given a star ranking for easy sorting during post processing. The firmware will also enable faster scrolling of images when displayed in a magnified view on the camera's LCD screen.

The new firmware enables photographers to have more control over the maximum ISO speed when the camera is in ISO Auto mode by setting a maximum ISO range. In certain low-light scenarios, such as during a sunset, where light changes each minute, photographers can lose the brilliance and color if the ISO setting is too high. Now, photographers can ensure their ISO setting will remain within specific parameters allowing them to concentrate on the moment, knowing that they will achieve the desired photographic results. The firmware also adjusts the available ISO Auto range, previously 100-3200 and now ISO 100-6400. In addition to these enhancements, the new EOS 7D firmware enables manual adjustment of audio levels prior to recording video, similar to the functionality found on the EOS 5D Mark II. Videographers can now manually adjust up to 64 audio levels on the EOS 7D so that they can refine the captured audio to match their particular needs. Similar to the new EOS 5D Mark III, a new submenu provided with the EOS 7D firmware update enables photographers to modify the first four characters of file names, in the camera. This valuable feature makes it easier to use the EOS 7D camera in multi-camera shooting situations by providing a way to identify the files coming from a particular camera without opening each image individually. The new firmware adds full compatibility for the EOS 7D with Canon's GPS Receiver GP-E2. This GPS Receiver can be mounted to the camera's accessory shoe or clipped to a belt and tethered via a USB cable. The GP-E2 was created to serve outdoor photographers; it records shooting locations including latitude, longitude and altitude, as well as camera direction. The camera's internal clock can now synced through the GPS unit using UTC (Coordinated Universal Time), the primary standard by which time is regulated, for accurate time recording or syncing clocks on multiple cameras. A GPS Logging function can display the photographer's route on a map, using supplied software. The new firmware upgrade for the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera together with installation instructions will be available in early August at no charge through Canon U.S.A.'s website.


Key Features:


With Firmware Version 2.0.X onboard, the EOS 7D is faster than ever! It’s capable of shooting up to 130** JPEG Large/Fine and 25** RAW images at 8.0 frames per second, which is up from 126* JPEG Large/Fine and 15* RAW images at 8.0 fps. The remarkable shutter, combined with speedy and sophisticated electronics, ensures instant response and performance. A rapidly occurring scene can be captured moment by moment, second by second, so that even the briefest of opportunities are captured in perfect clarity.

* Figure based on ISO 100, Standard Picture Style and with UDMA CF memory card.

** Figure based on updated firmware, ISO 100, Standard Picture Style and with UDMA 7 CF memory cards. Note: UDMA 7 CF memory card read/write speeds are not fully supported with the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera, if using UDMA 7 memory cards, the read/write speeds will be equivalent to UDMA 6. 


All images and effects simulated.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE


Installing Firmware Version 2.0.X makes the EOS 7D compatible with the Canon GPS Receiver GP-E2. The GPS Receiver GP-E2 records location†† information such as longitude, latitude, elevation, and direction as EXIF data. It has a rugged, compact design, connects to the EOS 7D via USB and uses readily available AA batteries.


All images and effects simulated.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE


For the ultimate in custom audio when recording motion images, this firmware upgrade enables manual control of sound recording levels. The recording level can be manually adjusted to one of 64 levels, for precise, optimized audio. And to prevent mistakes in sound recording, an icon indicating manual sound recording is displayed on the info screen during video shooting.

All images and effects simulated.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE


Firmware Version 2.0.X also delivers customization over ISO Auto settings. When using M, P, TV, AV and B modes, users now have a choice of setting the maximum allowable ISO, up to ISO 6400. With more flexibility to shoot in diverse lighting situations, the EOS 7D will always optimize ISO settings to ensure the best possible exposure is recorded.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE


Additional Features:



The new upgrade extends the EOS 7D’s RAW image processing to P, TV, AV, M and B modes! Image-processing parameters such as White Balance, Picture Style, Auto Lighting Optimizer, High ISO Noise Reduction, JPEG Quality, Color Space, Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction, Distortion Correction and Lens Aberration Correction can be applied to RAW images, in-camera, for optimal results without a computer.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE

For quick resizing of recorded JPEG images, the EOS 7D can resize JPEG "L" and "M" images and save them as separate JPEG "M" and "S" images. A new feature for the EOS 7D, JPEG resizing can be a great time saver, eliminating the need for a computer to resize images for other applications.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE

To help keep track of a specific image, or to organize a number of images quickly, a rating system of 0–5 stars will be implemented into the EOS 7D, which is easily selectable during playback. Along with the rating system, the EOS 7D’s image browsing (jump) and slide show features have been improved, enabling image browsing and slide shows according to rating.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE

Another major improvement delivered with the upgrade, EOS 7D users can quickly access a number of features during playback via the Quick Control button. Images can be protected, rotated, resized, highlight alert and AF point displays can be accessed, and image jump can be accessed via the main dial, which are significant time-savers.

All images and effects simulated.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE
Also new with the firmware upgrade is the customization of file names. With the customization of file names, it’s simple to set the first four characters of the file name (replacing the default "IMG_"). With user setting 1, the first four characters can be replaced with alphanumeric characters, and with user setting 2, the first three characters are user-defined, with the last character reflecting the image quality as shown below:

VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE

For frequent travelers, the EOS 7D now offers simple time zone settings, making it simple to define not only time zone, but also daylight savings time. When shooting in a different time zone, the camera can be set to the local time. Upon the return home, reverting to the original time zone is quick and easy.

All images and effects simulated.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE

For quick check of focus and detail, the new firmware upgrade significantly speeds up scrolling of magnified images. This increased speed makes it easier to confirm expressions, details and sharpness, or whether recomposing, refocusing or reshooting is necessary.

All images and effects simulated.
VERSION 2.0.X UPGRADE



Comparison:

 Version 2.0.XVersion 1.X.X
Maximum Burst Rate for Continuous Shooting130
JPEG Large/Fine
126* JPEG Large/Fine
24
RAW
15* RAW
GPS Compatibilitycheck
GPS Receiver GP-E2† ††
Manual Audio Level Adjustment64
Levels
Maximum Limit for ISO Auto200-6400
Limit Set by User
ISO 3200
In-camera RAW Image Processingcheck
In-camera JPEG Image Resizingcheck
In-camera Ratingscheck
Quick Control 
During Playback
check
Customization of File Namescheck
Time Zone
Settings
check
Scrolling of Magnified Imagescheck
Improved Scrolling Speed
check

Image-recording
Quality
Maximum Burst
Version 2.0.XVersion 1.X.X
8GB‡‡ CF Card 
(UDMA Mode 7 128GB Card)
4GB CF Card 
(UDMA 4GB CF Card)
110 (130)94 (126)
660 (36,490 Full)469 (1,169 Full)
560 (35,020 Full)454 (1,122 Full)
4,240 Full (67,910 Full)2,178 Full (2,178 Full)
3,380 Full (54,230 Full)1,739 Full (1,739 Full)
6,420 Full (102,770 Full)3,297 Full (3,297 Full)
23 (25)15 (15)
34 (36)24 (24)
48 (53)38 (38)
17 (17)6 (6)
19 (19)6 (6)
19 (19)6 (6)