New Canon ZR-Series DV Camcorders

Feb. 1, 2002-- Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon, Inc. (NYSE: CAJ), and a leader in analog and digital camcorders, continues to provide consumers with value-added DV products as evidenced by the introduction of three new ZR-series digital camcorders: the ZR40, ZR45 MC, and ZR50 MC. The new models offer new and improved features at lower price points than their predecessors. The new DV camcorders, with their stylish and compact design, offer consumers the latest in digital imaging technology, along with an extended optical and digital zoom range, USB terminal and image software* for high speed transfer of digital photos to a computer, a 2.5-inch flexible viewscreen, a new Night Mode (in full color), Image Stabilization for steady videos and lower power consumption for longer running time. In addition, each camcorder includes an analog-to-digital converter, which allows users to transfer VHS footage directly to a DV-ready computer by using the ZR camcorders as a "pass-thru" for the signal.

"The new Canon ZR-series camcorders provide consumers with even greater creative flexibility than before at price points that are extremely attractive," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, vice president and general manger, Photographic Products Group, Canon U.S.A. "Canon's ability to provide the most advanced features in a compact, easy-to-use product will bring even a novice to the level of seasoned pro."

Features in All Three Models

18x / 22x Optical Zoom Lens - The zoom range on the ZR40 and ZR45 MC offers users an 18x, f/1.6 optical zoom lens (360x digital zoom), bringing even the most distant objects dramatically close.

The ZR50 MC, with its 22x f/1.6 optical zoom lens (440x digital zoom), provides one of the longest zooms available. The long digital zoom capabilities of all three models reveals details of objects to distant to be seen with the human eye. Together they provide an exceptional scope from wide panorama to super telephoto.

Analog-To-Digital Converter - Now it's easier than ever to transfer analog video footage to a DV-ready computer. Using the ZR-series camcorders as a signal converter between an analog camcorder and the computer, VHS and Hi8 videos can easily be digitized and transferred to a computer for editing, sharing via the Internet and even burned onto a CD or DVD for outstanding video and audio quality.

Night Mode in Full Color - The new Night Mode allows users to see, and shoot video in virtual darkness. Functioning much like "night vision" in certain binoculars and other optical devices, the Night Mode provides a clear vision of objects in darkness. The added feature is that objects are presented in color as opposed to the "green tint" overlay experienced with other devices offering this feature. In this mode, even moonlit subjects can be seen clearly through the viewfinder and viewscreen. In fact, due to automatic adjustments made in the camcorder, Night Mode can remain on in any environment.

Reduced Power Consumption - Enhanced power, attributed to higher capacity batteries and reduction of energy consumption, allows for longer usage and uninterrupted recording time. When using Canon's optional Battery Pack BP-535, nearly 10 hours of power is possible with the ZR40, more than 9 hours with the ZR45 MC and approximately 9 hours with the ZR50 MC.

Image Stabilization - Canon's Image Stabilization corrects camera shake instantly, providing smooth, stable pictures even on long telephoto shots. Unlike many other dual digital camcorder/camera models, it works in both video and photo modes.

Shooting Modes - While in the Video Mode, the new ZR-Series camcorders capture smooth, full motion video for playback on the television or downloading into the computer. Functioning as both a video and digital still camera, the ZR40 can capture more than 700 still pictures on a single MiniDV cassette simply by depressing the Photo button and shooting like you would a camera. Still images are recorded, with sound, for approximately 6 seconds and can be recorded together with video, on a single MiniDV cassette.

Flexible LCD Viewscreen / Color Viewfinder - Each camcorder is equipped with a 2.5-inch viewscreen that allows composing videos a snap, from any direction. The screen swivels and flips for maximum handling and comfort and snaps safely into the camcorder when not in use, protecting the viewscreen from damage during storage and transport.

Additional features available in all three models include Programmed Auto Exposure for nearly every shooting condition including Sports, Sand and Snow, Low-light, Portrait and Spotlight and Night Mode; Digital Effects including vertical and horizontal wipes and mosaic fades, black-and-white and sepia; Digital Stereo Sound (16/12 bit); IEEE 1394 / Firewire DV Terminal; Manual Controls; A/V Insert and Audio Dubbing; and External Microphone Terminal.

Step-Up Features Of ZR45 MC and ZR50 MC

MultiMedia Card / Secure Digital Card and USB Terminal - The MultiMedia Card (MMC) / Secure Digital Card is incorporated into a number of Canon DV camcorders for fast and easy capture of digital photos. By installing a USB terminal into the ZR45 MC and ZR50 MC camcorders, users can now transfer images from their MMC card into the computer at very high speeds. By using the USB cable and software provided, consumers can now organize and categorize their photographs on the computer. With the ZoomBrowser software (for PC) and ImageBrowser (for Mac), photographs can be easily downloaded, archived and retouched.

Three Shooting Modes - The ZR45 MC and ZR50 MC feature three shooting modes: Video, Digital and Progressive Photo designed to simulate progressive scan recording on an interlace CCD image sensor to capture sharp, crisp full frame still images that are free from time lag blur onto a MultiMedia Card. Using the Progressive Photo mode, videographers will see greater clarity and detail, especially when making a print from their computer or photo printer.

Exclusive Features of ZR50 MC

Illuminated Control Buttons - Camera control buttons, conveniently positioned above the LCD viewscreen, can be illuminated to add unique style to the camcorder and make them visible in low light environments. Users can customize the feature by selecting six (6) neon colors: blue, green, orange, yellow, turquoise or purple.

Extended Recording Function - In addition to the SP mode, the ZR50 MC camcorder lets users choose up to three extended recording modes: Long Play, 2X and 3X. When in the 3X mode, up to 4-hours of recording can be achieved on a single 80-minute DV tape.

Advanced Accessory Shoe - The Advanced Accessory Shoe found on the ZR50 MC makes it possible for the camcorder to transmit power directly to accessories such as the Video Light VL-3 and Directional Stereo Microphone DM-50.

Optional Accessories - Several optional accessories are available with the new ZR-series DV camcorders including a BP-522 / BP-535 Battery Pack; Filter Set FS-30.5U; Wide-Converter WD-30.5; Tele-Converter TL-30.5; Directional Stereo Microphone DM-50 (ZR50 MC only); and Video Light VL-3(ZR50 MC only).

Pricing and availability for the new ZR-series DV camcorders are as follows:
ZR50 MC will be available in February with a suggested retail price of $899.
ZR45 MC will be available in March with a suggested retail price of $799.
ZR40 will be available in March with a suggested retail price of $699.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon, Inc., provides professional and consumer imaging solutions that give people the Know How to access the latest technology. The company's comprehensive product line includes networked multifunction devices; digital and analog copiers (color and black and white); printers, scanners, image filing systems, and facsimile machines; camcorders, cameras and lenses; and semiconductor, broadcast and medical equipment. Canon employs 12,000 people at more than 30 facilities throughout North, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

* Available with the ZR45 MC and ZR50 MC models only

SOURCE Businesswire