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Tag: megapixel

  • VholdR Offers First Wearable HD camcorder


    VholdR has unveiled what it describes as the first wearable HD camcorder.

    Weighing just four ounces, the 5 Megapixel ContourHD can record 1280×720 video at 30fps or SD video at 60fps with H.264 codec.

    Designed to snap onto a helmet or goggles – the company’s owners are extreme sports enthusiasts – the anodized aluminum camcorder has a 135-degree wide-angle lens with rotation and dual laser alignment.

    There’s a 2GB microSD card included and it supports MicroSD cards up to 16GB – giving up to 8 hours of HD and 16 hours of SD on a single card.

    The ContourHD, which comes with a removable Lithium-ion battery, starts shipping on May 15th for USD $280.

  • Canon Offers First Entry-Level DSLR With HD Video


    Canon today launched its Rebel T1i DSLR – its first-ever entry-level DSLR with 1080p HD video recording.

    The 15.1-megapixel camera uses the DIGIC 4 imaging processor to record either full 1080p video at 20 frames per second or 30 frames per second at 720p.

    Other notable specs include a 3.0-inch Live View screen, a Digic IV processor, ISO 12.8k sensitivity, and the same 18-55 IS EF-S kit lens as the XSi.

    Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon USA, described the latest addition to Canon’s Rebel lineup as "an entry-level juggernaut".

    "We are witnessing the emergence of a new phase in digital imaging history, as high-resolution still images and HD video can now both be produced in a hand-held device, for under USD $1,000," he said.

    The EOS Rebel T1i DSLR is scheduled for delivery by early May at an estimated retail price of USD $799.99.

  • Sensor Doubles Camera Phone Low-Light Performance


    Aptina has launched a new sensor for high-end 5-megapixel camera phones that promises to double performance in low-light situations.

    Called the MT9P013 5MP image sensor, it also promises to provide high quality video recording capabilities supporting up to 720p HD video at 60 frames per second and full 5-megapixel resolution video at 15fps.

    To achieve this, the new 1.75-micron pixel, 1/3.2 inch optical format sensor leverages the same light-capturing technology Aptina is integrating into its 1.4-micron image sensors.

    Aptina expects mass production of the MT9P013 to begin at the end of January 2009.

    Other MT9P013 Key Features:

    • high frame rate
    • data output options include a high throughput 2-lane MIPI serial interface capable of 1500 Mbps or greater and a parallel interface with throughput of 96Mb/sec x 12 bits.
    • The output options combined with the sensor’s input clock for the PLL enable users to consider a variety of ISP solutions, including the MT9S311, Aptina’s ISP solution designed specifically for manufacturers integrating Aptina 5MP sensors.

  • iPhone rivals beef up camera offerings


    The launch by Samsung in the UK this week of what it claims is Europe’s first 8 megapixel camera phone is being seen as an attempt to highlight shortcomings in the iPhone.

    A number of other handset vendors are preparing to launch similar high-end camera phones in time for the Christmas period.

    Sony Ericsson is expected to launch the 8.1 megapixel C905 in the fall, while Nokia and LG are reported to be planning similar moves.
    The fact Apple’s 3G iPhone only packs a 2 megapixel camera is regarded as one of its key weakness.

    Samsung’s i8510 will be available in the UK through Carphone Warehouse and free on a £35 a month contract with Orange UK.
    The smartphone is being positioned as a genuine alternative to digital cameras.

    Mark Mitchinson, vice president for Samsung, said the cell phone industry was playing catch-up, selling only 4 and 5 megapixel camera phones.

    “But the 8 megapixel is a new milestone, I think the vast majority of consumers will see it as a credible alternative,” he said.
    “For the first time ever you will not need to carry a camera as well as a phone on your holidays.”

    The i8510 is based on Symbian’s Series 60 platform and includes HSPA connectivity, Wi-Fi, GPS and FM radio functionality.