Kodak DC290 Zoom Digital Camera sets new standards

With 3.3 M pixel resolution and built-in

Computer Intelligent Function

Kodak today announced the introduction of the Kodak DC290 Zoom Digital Camera with an ultra resolution of 3.3-megapixel (2240 x 1500), delivering the highest resolution by interpolation. Together with Kodak's unique colour management technology, DC290 guarantees first class photo image quality and highly detailed images suitable for 11 x 14 - inch prints. For business users and photography buffs alike, the camera combines point-and-shoot ease with a host of complementary manual controls. With a built-in computer intelligent function and Digita-Scripting, the DC290 caters to every professional need.

The Kodak DC290 offers ultra, high, medium or standard resolution and an uncompressed tagged image file format (TIFF) mode that yields a full 6.3 MB file to provide maximum control over quality. In "Ultra" mode, the camera mathematically derives additional image data as it processes the original picture data coming from the sensor.

The Kodak DC290 combines state-of-the-art computer functionality with digital imaging technology. The Flashpoint Digita operating environment includes Digita Script software, users can pre-set, renew or update various programmes and software applications that enhance the functionality of the camera.

The Kodak DC290 uses a 75 MHz Power PC processor to significantly enhance boot time and shot-to-shot processing time. The DC290 is an autofocus, auto-exposure camera with a built-in automatic flash and offers a 3X (33 to 99 mm equivalent) optical zoom, which can be digitally extended to 6X. The camera also allows the user to adjust the exposure values two stops over and under in half-stop increments and the ability to switch to a manual focus mode. As in a traditional, professional camera, the DC290 features flash sync capability. An accessory lens mount is also available to support a 37 mm threaded optional lenses and filters.

Additional features of the DC290 include:

Scripting capabilities which allows users to pre-program settings and camera operation, to customize tags for each image, and to accommodate accessories such as a global position system

A USB interface for both Macintosh and Windows platforms, enabling 10 times the speed transfer of pictures than either serial or IrDA ports

A unique "file open" feature that turns the camera into a card reader

Immediate LCD review on a two-inch color screen, enabling users verification of photo completion

Finished file formats - JPEG and uncompressed RGB TIFF

A burst mode that lets the camera take sequential pictures at the touch of a button

A timelapse mode for shots taken at intervals from 3 seconds up to 24 hours

Expandability and support through firmware upgrades

Auto input and playback allows users the ability to record sound with images

Video-out enables users to view their pictures on a TV or through on LCD projector

Year 2000 compliance as detailed on the Kodak Web site:
http://www.kodak.com/US/en/service/y2k/index.shtml

Kodak DC290 zoom camera is built on the award-winning DC260 and 265 camera platform. The launch of DC260 and DC265 has received very positive feedback from both users and the media. Since its launch, DC265 has been praised by several significant publications including May issue of PC Computing which featured theDC265 on the Editor's A-list.

The DC290 camera will include a 20 MB CompactFlash card which can store up to 220 pictures, four AA alkaline batteries, a Serial cable and USB cable to support both Windows and Macintosh platforms, an audio/video cable, a handstrap, and a lens cover. The bundle also includes Adobe PageMill and PhotoDeluxe software, Kodak PicturesNow software, a quick set-up guide, and user's guides.

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