Konika Introduces Digital Cameras with Breakthrough Technology

July 2002 -- According to the Photo Marketing Association, consumers are expected to purchase 7.9-million digital cameras in 2002, a 32% increase above the 6-million plus purchased last year. Konica Photo Imaging is ready for the surge of consumer interest in digital photography by introducing two new high resolution Digital Revio Mega Pixel cameras with 4.13, and 3.34 mega pixel CCDs, equivalent to 4.0 and 3.0 effective megapixels.

According to Robert E. Striano, president and chief executive officer of Konica Photo Imaging, the Digital Revio KD-400Z and KD-310Z – the world’s smallest digital cameras in their class - are also the world’s first digital cameras that offer both SD Memory Card and Memory Stick storage. The demand for these more compact memory cards is growing in conjunction with the introduction of many new compact digital products and devices. Because of this market trend, Konica’s Research and Development staff had the foresight to develop this new ‘dual-slot’ technology that sets these cameras apart from their competition and demonstrates how KPI is the system solutions provider for the imaging industry with a focus on entertainment and communications applications. “This dual-slot technology bodes well for the future of our digital cameras, where smooth connections with PCs, PDAs, next-generation cellular phones, inkjet printers and other networked appliances is becoming an essential prerequisite,” Striano said.

Digital Revio KD-400Z. Konica’s new Digital Revio KD-400Z has been designed to reflect the realities of an increasingly sophisticated market. In addition to being portable and functional – essential basic requirements for today’s camera buyers – it has two important features. It is a digital device that is connectable with a host of PCs and peripherals producing high-quality images and is compatible with a diversity of output equipment.

The SD Memory Card and Memory Stick Dual Memory slot allows you to easily transmit images to PCs and peripherals including mobile phones, PDAs, photo printers – keeping you connected in today’s digital age.

The Digital Revio KD-400Z is the world’s smallest camera in the 4.13 megapixel, 3X zoom class. Other features include a stainless steel alloy exterior that provides a high-class appearance, ultra slim body that enhances mobility and a sliding lens cover that protects the lens while preserving mobility and enhancing visual appearance.

The high-performance, 3X optical Hexanon zoom lens (equivalent to 39-117mm on 35mm film camera) means no compromises in design slimness. The ultrahigh 4.13 megapixel resolution ensures that picture quality is maintained when enlarging and trimming images. Operation recording modes include: single, macro, self-timer, landscape, 2X digital zoom, sepia, movie, voice memo and resize. The resize mode is an important feature because it lets the user downsize an image so that it can be easily transmitted.

The camera also features an imaging processing system with automatic exposure, focus and white balance. This Konica original computing program processes CCD data at a high speed based on original algorithms, thus assuring ideal image capturing conditions and faithful reproduction of the subject being captured. The Digital Revio is also fitted with a new signal processing engine that specializes in high-speed data processing that ensures against missed photo opportunities.

In addition to recording images, the camera is able to record and playback short AVI video “movies” with sound, as well as voice memos. The camera boasts a full array of functions that can be tailored to specific users, from first-time photographers to professionals.

Other highlights of the camera include: LCD monitor, flash, USB interface, rechargeable lithium-ion battery with recharging unit, AC adaptor and stylish blue LED indicators.

The KD-400Z is Exif 2.2 compatible. Simpler images that print out at a higher quality, with additional attachment of information, are possible because of this new Exchangeable Image File Format for digital still cameras.

Konica is not only a total imaging system solutions provider, but a total software solutions provider as well. For image manipulation, the KD-400Z package includes the award-winning Adobe Photoshop Elements. This software offers unique features designed specifically for amateur photographers, hobbyists and business users who want to create professional-quality images for print and the Web. Photoshop Elements is designed for Microsoft Windows XP, 98, 2000 and NT and MAC OS 8.6, 9.0, 9.0.4, or 9.1.

The KD-400Z will be available in early Summer 2002.

Digital Revio KD-310Z. The Digital Revio KD-310Z is the world’s smallest camera in the 3.34-megapixel, 3X zoom class. With the exception of the 3.34- megapixel and red LED indicators, the camera has the same features and functions as the KD-400Z.

For additional product information visit the company’s web site at www.konica.com.