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.
Product Description:
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.
Minolta Dimage X 2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom