May 13, 1999

The i ZOOM 60

Advanced Photo System format 2.1x zoom lens Easy to use, ultracompact and lightweight Stylish, futuristic design

i ZOOM 60

Summary

Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. is pleased to introduce the i ZOOM 60 compact camera for the Advanced Photo System. The new release features a 2.1x 28-60 mm zoom lens- with coverage equivalent to the 35-75 mm range of a 35 mm camera-and an array of state-of-the-art functions. It also combines easy operation with an ultracompact, lightweight design and stylish good looks. As the second new-concept camera in the innovative i ZOOM Series Advanced Photo System lineup, the i ZOOM 60 joins the popular i ZOOM 75 launched in November 1998. While the earlier model a zoom lens in the 3x class, the latest one offers consumers the choice of a 2x-class zoom as well.

Distinctive and Fun

The i ZOOM 60 extends the Olympus heritage of unique products based on cutting-edge technologies. Its many advantages include easy-to-use ergonomics, a sophisticated design and an ultracompact, lightweight body. The ergonomic contours reflect the high priority placed on simple operation. There is also the versatility of a 28-60 mm 2.1x zoom lens, while the state-of-the art technologies include the exclusive linear clutch and shaft drive mechanisms developed for the earlier i ZOOM 75. The four-stage lens barrel also plays a part in a compact and lightweight design that measures 107 (W) x 54.5 (H) x 33.5 (D) mm and weighs only 165 g. Along with contributing to outstanding portability and easy operation, the full-flat lens barrier creates a futuristic look. And the pearl-silver finish adds to the aesthetic qualities that make the i ZOOM 60 satisfying and enjoyable to own. The high-precision autofocus system has a five-point Passive Multi AF mechanism, while the three groups of the high-performance zoom lens include two aspherical lens elements that deliver superior resolution. The reflector's innovative shape and more efficient electronic circuitry are keys to the flash system's quick-charge recycling in approximately 2.5 sec. Although it is extremely compact, the stylish design holds an array of other features including weatherproofing, three Advanced Photo System frame formats and six versatile flash modes.

Main Features

High-Performance 28-60 mm 2.1x Zoom Lens

The i ZOOM 60 has the versatility of a 28-60 mm 2.1x zoom lens. Its two aspherical lens elements not only deliver superior resolution, but also contribute to a smaller and lighter lens.

Ultracompact, Lightweight Design with Advanced Ergonomics

With the highest priority placed on easy-to-use ergonomics, the camera is shaped like a flat rectangle. It also has the linear clutch and shaft drive mechanisms developed for the earlier i ZOOM 75, a four-stage lens barrel and many other advanced technologies. The result is an ultracompact, lightweight design that measures 107 (W) x 54.5 (H) x 33.5 (D) mm and weighs only 165 g.

Stylish, Futuristic Looks and a Full-Flat Lens Barrier

The full-flat lens barrier adds to the stylish, futuristic looks, while the finish is highlighted by a pearl-silver finish. With this unmistakable aesthetic appeal, the i ZOOM 60 is more enjoyable just to own.

Quick Charging in Approx. 2.5 sec.

Flash recycling takes approximately 2.5 sec with the i ZOOM 60. The keys to the quick-charge system include the reflector's innovative shape and more efficient electronic circuitry. The fast response ensures that memorable shots will not be missed, even when flash is required.

High-Precision Five-Point Passive Multi AF System

The five-point Passive Multi AF System employs a high-sensitivity CMOS sensor. With this high-precision system, focusing is sharp and accurate at any point from a 60 cm Close-up to infinity.

Intelligent Variable Power Flash System

The i ZOOM 60's flash system has several sensors to input information about the required illumination. It not only triggers the flash automatically in dim light or backlighting, but adjusts the intensity for situations such as Close-up shots-a setting that often leads to overexposure. There are also six versatile flash modes that make it easy for anyone to take great flash photographs.

Auto In low light or backlight, the flash fires automatically to ensure the illumination is appropriate. Red-Eye Reducing This mode minimizes the red-eye effect-a common problem with flash portraits. When the shutter release button is pressed, there is a series of pre-flashes before the main flash fires. Flash Off With the flash always off in this mode, it is suited to capturing the mood of the moment or occasions where flash photography is prohibited. Fill-in The flash always fires in this mode. It is especially helpful in eliminating unnatural shadows. Night Scene The intensity of the flash is determined by the foreground, while the length of the exposure is set according to the backdrop. Slowing the shutter speed to as long as 4 sec., this mode achieves great results by capturing both the subject in the front and the background night-time scenery. Red-Eye Reducing Night Scene This mode reduces the red-eye effect in pictures taken in the Night Scene mode. Except for the series of pre-flashes, it is identical to the Night Scene mode.

Worry-free Weatherproofing (IEC Grade 4 Standards)

The i Zoom 60's weatherproofing protects against a sudden shower and splashing. Meeting the IEC grade 4 standards, it offers extra reassurance on a rainy day or on a ski slope.

Solid and Durable

The i ZOOM 60 is designed to be lightweight as well as reliable and durable. With the components made of stainless steel and other metals, it has a solid weatherproof housing that thoroughly protects the internal mechanisms.

OTHER FEATURES

Full-Range Auto Macro Macro shots can be taken at any point in the zooming range. The photographer can move in as close as 60 cm to shoot images up to A5-size (60 mm zoom setting and C frame format). Optional Remote Control The remote control makes it easy to trigger the shutter from as far as 5m. Built-in Dioptric Correction Dioptric correction of -2 to +1 m-1 (per meter) is built in to compensate for most eyesight problems. Focus Lock This convenient feature keeps the subject in sharp focus while the photographer adjusts the composition. Three frame formats Photography is even more fun when the C, H or P frame format can be selected at any point on the roll according to the subject and scene. The proportions of the real-image viewfinder change with the format, so it shows the frame exactly as it will be recorded. Information Exchange (IX) The camera's magnetic head automatically records shooting data-including the date/time, frame format, subject brightness and other information the film's magnetic tracks. The data are particularly useful when reprints are needed.

Specifications