October 19, 1999

The CAMEDIA C-2020ZOOM Compact Digital Camera The evolution of the best-selling C-2000ZOOM moves into another phase with the debut of the definitive compact digital camera with more than 2 megapixels

1/2-inch CCD with 2.1 million pixels High-performance 3x optical zoom lens with a bright F2.0 aperture World's first digital camera featuring an LCD monitor with a wide viewing angle Motion JPEG Image recording up to 60 sec. Enhanced shooting, processing and creative functions Compact, lightweight and stylish design

CAMEDIA C-2020ZOOM

Summary

Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce that sales of the CAMEDIA C-2020ZOOM will begin on November 12, 1999. Setting the new standard for high-end compact digital cameras, it features a 1/2-inch CCD with 2.1 million pixels and a high-performance 3x optical zoom lens with a bright F2.0 aperture. The release is accompanied by the introduction of the CAMEDIA P-330N Digital Color Printer offering photorealistic output of high-volume image files up to 10 MB. The P-330N will be available at the end of November 1999.

The New Standard

In the spring of 1999, Olympus set the pace in the digital camera market with the introduction of the CAMEDIA C-2000ZOOM. Featuring a large-diameter 3x zoom lens with a bright F2.0 aperture, this high-end model brings photo-quality imaging to a digital camera with more than 2 megapixels. Earning high marks for performance and design, it has defined a new market segment and become a best-seller in the class with more than 2 megapixels. The CAMEDIA C-2020ZOOM marks the next stage in this evolution. As the definitive model with more than 2 megapixels, this is the new leader of the personal digital camera market. It combines the advantages of the earlier C-2000ZOOM with higher performance, easier handling and the creative expression of a broad range of functions. It also features a compact, lightweight design that exudes a sense of quality.

Completely Refined

The C-2020ZOOM's outstanding resolution and image quality start with its 1/2-inch CCD with 2.1 million pixels and a high-performance Multivariator 3x zoom lens with a bright F2.0 aperture. Reflecting Olympus' long-standing expertise in producing 35 mm cameras, the new model also incorporates many photographic technologies including Aperture-Priority and Shutter-Priority Modes, Slow Synchro and more equivalent ISO sensitivity settings.

Creative control is enhanced by an array of new features:

World's first digital camera that has a color TFT monitor with a wide viewing angle so an image can be checked from the side Manual Exposure Mode Manual focusing First CAMEDIA model featuring Motion JPEG Image recording compatible with the QuickTime(R)* Motion JPEG format Auto Bracketing Sepia, Black & White and Whiteboard/Blackboard Modes

With its all-around refinements of the earlier C-2000ZOOM, the latest CAMEDIA model offers dramatic advances in image quality, performance and handling. The adjustment settings are more precise, while the layout and controls have been fine-tuned for simpler operation. It also has a compact and lightweight design that makes the camera easy to take along, and the new titanium-color metallic finish gives it a more sophisticated look. Unlike moving images shot with a camcorder, a still image is easily affected by camera shake as the number of pixels increases, especially when the CCD has more than 2 megapixels. Drawing on its long-standing expertise as a camera manufacturer, Olympus overcame this problem and ensured stable shooting by incorporating the large grip and optical viewfinder of the earlier C-2000ZOOM. Together with the F2.0-F2.8 3x zoom lens-which has the largest diameter in this class-this design reduces the camera shake that can ruin still images.

* QuickTime Motion JPEG is a registered trademark of Apple Computer of the United States.

The Next Step in Output

Introduced at the same time, the CAMEDIA P-330N Digital Color Printer uses a dye-sublimation process to deliver photorealistic output of high-volume image files up to 10 MB. It can also handle large numbers of files. The P-330N offers the convenience of a SmartMediaTM card slot for direct output of A6-size (105 x 148 mm) prints. Tailored with the sophisticated good looks of the CAMEDIA Series, it sports a new champagne-gold finish.

Main Features

Broad Array of New Features

World's First Digital Camera Featuring a Color TFT LCD Monitor with a Wide Viewing Angle

Made of low-temperature polysilicon, the new 1.8-inch TFT color LCD monitor has a wide viewing angle, so an image can be checked accurately when the camera is not directly in front of the photographer. It is especially useful for composing a shot from an unusually low or high angle.

Manual Exposure Mode

In addition to Aperture-Priority, Shutter-Priority and Programmed AE, there is a Manual Exposure Mode. Any shutter speed from 16 to 1/800 sec. can be selected along with an aperture setting of F2.0-F11.0 at a wide-angle focal length or F2.8-F11.0 at a telephoto setting. Control has the precision of adjustment in 1/3EV steps.

Manual Focus

Along with autofocus, there is a Manual Focus system for setting any focal distance between 0.2 m and infinity in 130 steps. The focus can be checked on the LCD monitor before shooting.

Auto Bracketing

Auto Bracketing automatically shoots an image several times at different exposure settings. With this variation, it offers extra reassurance that at least one shot will come out right when auto exposure adjustment is uncertain.

Sepia, Black & White and Blackboard/Whiteboard Modes

The C-2020ZOOM is the first CAMEDIA model with Sepia and Black & White Modes for shooting monochrome images. In the Blackboard/Whiteboard Mode, the appropriate exposure setting is selected automatically for capturing text, while binary processing ensures that small letters are clear and sharp.

QuickTime(R)* Motion JPEG Compatibility for Motion JPEG Image Recording up to 60 sec.

The C-2020ZOOM is the first CAMEDIA camera offering a QuickTime Motion JPEG image capability for extended recording. The Motion JPEG Image mode is selected easily with the Mode Dial for continuous shooting of a JPEG-format image up to approximately 15 sec. at 15 frames/sec. with resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. If the resolution is set to 160 x 120 pixels, recording lasts as long as approximately 60 sec. at 15 frames/sec. This function is especially useful for adding a moving image to a home page or presentation. Normal, frame-by-frame and reverse playback are all possible in the playback mode. QuickTime(R)* Motion JPEG images can be edited on a PC with Olympus' optional CAMEDIA Master 1.2 software. Its wide variety of editing functions include selecting a once-in-a-lifetime shot from a sequence of images.

* QuickTime Motion JPEG is a registered trademark of Apple Computer of the United States.

Enhanced Functions and Ease of Operation

A number of refinements have improved the performance and handling of the earlier C-2000ZOOM.

Higher Performance

New iESP Auto White Balance The new Intelligent ESP (iESP) Auto White Balance delivers dramatic improvements. To determine the appropriate color and lighting source, calculations are based on the average for the entire frame and a center-weighted reading. This capability ensures that colors-including skin tones-are reproduced accurately in varied lighting conditions. More SQ Mode Settings With the earlier C-2000ZOOM, the SQ Mode could be set only for the size of the image. The C-2020ZOOM offers four selections in the SQ Mode by combining High Quality and Standard JPEG compression with the XGA (1,024 x 768 pixels) and VGA (640 x 480 pixels) formats. This range lets the photographer balance quantity and quality concerns-that is, more shots or better images-in the SQ Mode. When a high-quality mode is selected, reduced image quality can be prevented even with a small file. Full Range of Equivalent ISO Sensitivity Settings In addition to the Auto setting for automatic adjustment of the equivalent ISO sensitivity, there are three fixed settings for equivalent ISO of approximately 100, approximately 200 or approximately 400. This range comes in very handy for nighttime and indoors shots as well as when flash photography is prohibited. It can also be used to prevent camera shake at a telephoto focal length. Improved Sequence Function Except in the Uncompressed SHQ Mode, the Sequence function can be used for SHQ as well as HQ and SQ recording. There is also an AF Sequence Mode to reset the AE and AF for every shot. This fast focusing is ideal for capturing a series of images when the subject is moving. 64 MB SmartMediaTM Card Compatibility The C-2020ZOOM is compatible with the new 64 MB SmartMediaTM card scheduled for release at the end of October 1999. It comes with an 8 MB SmartMediaTM 3 V (3.3 V) card that has a Panorama Stitching function with optional CAMEDIA Master.

More Precise and Convenient Handling

Redesigned Operation Button and Mode Dial To simplify operation, the Operation Button arrows-which are used frequently for menu settings-are positioned separately. Along with simplifying handling, this arrangement prevents errors arising from pressing the same button twice. A Power Off setting has been added to the Mode Dial so the camera will not be turned on inadvertently. There is also a Quick View function so a recorded image can be checked immediately without the extra step of switching to a playback mode. Separate Function Buttons Settings can be input easily and quickly with the dedicated buttons for the frequently used Flash Mode and Spot/Macro functions. Handling is also improved by the larger switches for the LCD monitor and menu controls. Easy-to-Read Menu Display The menu is displayed on the LCD monitor. The clarity of the cursor also helps to simplify handling and prevent mistakes.

Designed for Quality and Creativity

Ultra-High Image Quality

1/2-inch CCD with 2.1 million pixels The 1/2-inch CCD with 2.1 million pixels delivers detailed, high-quality shots. With its large number of pixels, it brings a new level of resolution to a personal digital camera. Bright, Large-Diameter F2.0 3x Optical Zoom Lens The Multivariator 3x optical zoom lens is the brightest in its class, offering the creative freedom of experimenting with depth of field. It combines an F2.0-2.8 aperture with a zooming range equivalent to the 35-105 mm coverage of a 35 mm camera. From wide-angle to telephoto settings, this large diameter ensures that the C-2020ZOOM makes the most of the exceptional sensitivity of a CCD with millions of pixels. Along with minimizing aberration, the optical system almost eliminates luminance variation around the edges of the image to ensure that images are vibrant, sharp and detailed.

Compact and Lightweight, Friendly and Stylish

Easy to take along, the compact and lightweight C-2020ZOOM is only 107.5 mm wide, and it weighs 305 g. Part of the case is finished in an aluminum alloy, and the titanium color adds to the sense of quality. All the details have been engineered to make operation simple and sure. The ergonomically designed grip fits comfortably in the hands and reduces camera shake, while the Mode Dial offers instantaneous mode setting from the varied shooting functions.

Thoroughgoing Creative Control

Four Exposure Modes   Program Auto When the shutter button is pressed, the Program Mode automatically sets the optimal aperture and shutter speed. This automation ensures that even beginners will not miss an opportunity. Aperture-Priority Auto With precise 1/3EV step adjustment, any aperture from F2.0 to F11.0 can be selected at a wide-angle focal length or from F2.8 to F11.0 at a telephoto setting. To ensure the exposure setting is appropriate, the shutter speed is adjusted automatically as the aperture changes. Shutter-Priority Auto In this mode, any shutter speed from 1 to 1/800 sec. can be selected with the precision of 1/3EV steps. It is especially useful for creating unique shots of a moving subject-for example, a flowing stream or other water in motion. Manual The photographer can choose any combination of shutter speed and aperture settings. Two Metering Modes for the Right Exposure The exclusive Digital ESP Metering System delivers natural-looking results even in difficult backlighting or high-contrast lighting. Spot Metering can also be selected for an accurate exposure based on a particular part of the image.

Sharpness Adjustment

The Sharpness function has Normal and Soft settings. They make it easy to ensure a shot is suited to a particular use, whether it is printed output or additional image processing.

Versatile Flash Modes

Along with the four flash modes-Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Off and Fill-in-the C-2020ZOOM has a Flash Synchronization Socket for an external flash unit and Slow Synchro (first- and second-curtain synchro effect). Slow Synchro is ideal for shooting in low light, photographing a subject against nighttime scenery, capturing the flowing traces of moving lights or recording an after-image.

Manual White Balance

In addition to iESP Auto White Balance, four color temperatures-sunlight, overcast skies, tungsten light or fluorescent light-can be selected for an optimal color balance when Auto White Balance may encounter difficulties. Sequence Mode and Rapid-Response Quick Shooting The Sequence Mode can take 49 or more continuous shots at approximately 1.4 frames/sec. in the SQ Mode. Even in the HQ Mode, it can capture a sequence of nine or more shots at about 1.2 frames/sec. The Quick Shooting function has been improved as well. After the shutter is triggered, the camera is ready for the next shot in only 1-2 sec. in the normal shooting mode.

Included RM-1 Remote Control

The included RM-1 remote control can trigger the shutter from a distance. During playback on a TV monitor, it can also be used to adjust image framing and size-a capability that is especially handy during business presentations.

Digital Functions

Three Digital Tele Modes The Digital Tele Modes can be used in all shooting modes except Uncompressed SHQ. With the 1.6x, 2x and 2.5x settings, they can be combined with 3x optical zooming for maximum coverage of 7.5x. File Name Setting With a number automatically assigned to all image files and folders, it is easy to keep track of shots, even when the storage card is changed. This feature also ensures that file and folder names are not duplicated when images are stored. It is especially useful when files are transferred to a PC. Video Output The video output terminal can be used to connect the C-2020ZOOM to a TV monitor for large-screen display of images. A video cable is included with the camera. Processing Capabilities SmartMediaTM function cards from Olympus offer image processing functions as well as storage capabilities. With the included 8 MB card, a PC running Olympus' optional CAMEDIA Master 1.2 software can turn a number of Panorama Stitching Mode shots into a single Panorama image. The optional Calendar Card makes it easy to create an original calendar, while the optional Template Card holds illustrations and hand lettering that can be combined with digital images. With the optional Title Card, handwritten notes or drawings can be superimposed on an image to create original greeting cards.

Thoroughgoing Compatibility

Images can be recorded in the JPEG format as well as uncompressed TIFF. The JPEG format follows the DCF (Design rules for Camera File systems) specifications established by the Japan Electronic Industry Development Association (JEIDA). For simplified printing, recording is also possible in the Digital Print Order Format (DPOF). This compatibility ensures that the files will work easily with DPOF-compatible products.

Wide Choice of Options

Conversion Lenses and Lens Adapter The optional CLA-1 conversion lens adapter can be used with three dedicated conversion lenses. Bringing a new dimension and more fun to photography, these options include the TCON-14 telephoto, WCON-08 wide-angle and MCON-40 macro dedicated conversion lenses. Easy Data Transfer and Image Processing Eliminating the need for a cable, a range of optional accessories make data transfer to a PC easy and convenient. They include the USB-compatible MAUSB-2 SmartMediaTM card reader/writer, the MAFP-2 floppy disk adapter and MA-2 PC card adapter. The optional C-7KP PC connection kit-which is scheduled for introduction on November 5, 1999-includes Olympus' CAMEDIA Master 1.2 software. It is an upgrade of CAMEDIA Master 1.1, which has won high marks for its clear and friendly interface. The latest version offers more detailed settings for image data as well as thumbnail display and downloading of Motion JPEG images.

Specifications