Fast on the heels of archrivals Nikon and Olympus, Kodak (800/235-6325, https://www.kodak.com ) has introduced three new digital cameras, including its first models to surpass a resolution of two megapixels.
Leading the new product line is the DC290, a $1,099 point-and-shoot camera with a 2.1-megapixel CCD–capable of producing images at a resolution of up to 1,760 by 1,168 pixels. Other features include 3 x optical zoom, external flash synchronization, audio recording and playback, and a single connection that serves as a serial or USB port. The camera stores images on a 20MB CompactFlash card. An accessory allows use of standard 37mm threaded lenses.
The camera uses the Flashpoint Digita operating environment, which includes a scripting language that lets you control image-capture functions. One script allows the camera to accept data from a global-positioning-satellite receiver. The camera, attached by a bracket to the receiver, automatically labels each shot with the time and location. Kodak sells a $2,000 bundle that includes the camera, receiver, bracket, and cable.
The $799 DC280 features the same 2.1-megapixel resolution as the DC290, but with a 2 x optical zoom and no Digita software.
Kodak has also introduced the DC215, a compact $399 camera with 2 x optical zoom and a megapixel sensor capable of capturing images at 1,152-by-864-pixel resolution. The camera connects to serial ports (no USB) and stores images on a 4MB CompactFlash card. The $499 gold version features an 8MB CompactFlash card and a USB CompactFlash reader.
Along with these new cameras, Kodak has also announced the DC240i, a version of its $599 DC240 with an iMac-inspired industrial design. Kodak has not announced pricing for the iMac version.
Kodak will continue to sell its DC265, which features a 1.6-megapixel CCD, at a new price of $899. However, the company has discontinued the DC210, DC220, and DC260.
October 1999 page: 29