GOLDEN, CO. (February 24, 2010)…PENTAX Imaging Company announced the latest model in the manufacturer’s megazoom digital camera line: the PENTAX X90. Featuring an extra-wide zoom, longer battery life than its predecessor and an electronic viewfinder, the X90 delivers effortless picture-taking in a wide variety of situations to photographers of all levels. The key feature of the PENTAX X90 is the 26X megazoom, super-telephoto lens (26-676mm equivalent) also designed with a Macro mode that focuses to less than one inch away to capture images of subjects that are near or far.
Other important features of the PENTAX X90 include:
• 12.1 megapixel sensor, ideal for large prints or cropping flexibility
• 2.7 inch LCD with anti-reflection coating or electronic viewfinder with new diopter adjustment for composing and playback of images and video
• Eye-Fi wireless SD memory card connectivity for built-in Wi-Fi capability to transfer photos andvideos from the camera to a computer or an online sharing site such as Picasaweb, Flickr, Facebook and YouTube (Eye-fi cards sold separately.)
• HDMI port plays back beautiful high resolution images and video on HDTVs
• A perfect blend of digital compact and SLR technology including powerful automatic operation or creative manual and priority modes
• Triple Shake Reduction technology includes a high quality mechanical sensor-shift SR mechanism, Digital Pixel Track and high ISO SR, and Movie SR
• High speed continuous shooting up to 11 frames per second
Fast Face Detection technology quickly finds up to 32 faces
Powerful, lightweight Lithium Ion battery and improved power efficiency
Priced at $399.95 USD, the PENTAX X90 will ship in April 2010.
PENTAX X90 FACT SHEET
Versatile optical 26X zoom lens to accommodate a range of subjects
With a compact, lightweight body, the PENTAX X90 features a high-magnification optical 26X zoom lens offering a focal-length coverage between 26mm wide angle to 676mm super telephoto (in the 35mm format). Combined with a Macro mode to capture images of subjects less than an inch away, the X90 captures images near and far. The X90 also features an Intelligent Zoom function, which extends the zoom coverage to approximately 162.5 times (for a focal length of an 4225mm in the 35mm format) without compromising the optical performance of the zoom lens.
Dependable shake-reduction system for sharp, blur-free images
The X90 incorporates the PENTAX-original CCD-shift-type SR (Shake Reduction) system to assure sharply focused, blur-free images even under demanding photographic conditions prone to camera shake, such as when using the zoom lens’s super-telephoto range or when shooting a sunset or indoor scene with natural light only. By accurately detecting the amount of camera shake using a high-performance gyro sensor and shifting the CCD image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed, the X90 offers an outstanding camera-shake compensation effect, equivalent to approximately three shutter steps.*
* The degree of shake-reduction effect may vary, depending on the photographic conditions.
Extra-powerful battery for extended shooting sessions
With a large-capacity lithium-ion battery, the X90’s battery life has improved by 50 percent over the previous PENTAX megazoom. The camera records approximately 255 images* on a full battery charge. * Based on measurement conditions conforming to CIPA specifications using the exclusive D-LI106 Lithium-ion Battery.
Electronic viewfinder with diopter adjustment for clear image viewing outdoors
The X90 comes equipped with an electronic viewfinder with a diopter adjustment mechanism for clear views of subject and electonronic indicators.
Eye-Fi wireless SD memory card connectivity
Eye-Fi SD memory cards store media and offer built-in Wi-Fi capability that accesses an assigned wireless network to effortlessly transfer photos andvideos from the camera to a computer and online sharing site such as Picasaweb, Flickr, Facebook and YouTube. Equipped with an Eye-Fi Card, the PENTAX X90 allows users to enable/disable the Eye-Fi Card’s Wi-Fi connectivity via the cameramenu and provides an on-screen card activity indicator. (Eye-fi cards sold separately. More details available at www.eye-fi)
Movie shooting in high-definition TV image quality, with anti-shake protection
The X90 captures high-quality movie clips, equivalent in image quality to high-definition TV (1280 x 720 pixels). The camera features Movie SR (Shake Reduction) mode* to minimize camera shake during movie shooting through the use of exclusive software. As a result, the photographer enjoys high-quality, blur-free movie shooting with minimal effort. An HDMI micro terminal for audio/video signal output supports high-resolution movie viewing on a high-definition TV monitor.
* When the Movie SR mode is selected, the angle of view becomes narrower than normal shooting.
Multi-mode exposure system to accommodate different applications
In addition to the advanced Programmed AE mode, which automatically selects the optimal combination of aperture and shutter speed for a given subject, the X90 offers Aperture-Priority AE, Shutter-Priority AE and Metered Manual modes.
High image quality
With 12.1 effective megapixels, a sophisticated imaging engine and a high-quality PENTAX zoom lens, the X90 delivers super-clear, high-quality images with a Bright, Natural or Monotone finishing touch option.
Auto Picture mode for hands-off selection of seven different shooting modes
The X90 features the advanced Auto Picture mode, which selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene by detecting the subject’s lighting and other conditions. This user-friendly feature selects the best mode from a choice of Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Flower, Sport or Standard modes and features an Auto Macro mode, which automatically switches the camera’s focus range to macro in close-range applications.
Face Detection AF & AE function
Feauring an upgraded Face Detection AF & AE function, the X90 automatically detects up to 32 faces in the image field in a mere 0.03 seconds and captures each with precision, even when the faces are tilted or turned sideways. In addition, the X90 offers other user-friendly functions designed to produce beautiful portraits with ease: the Smile Capture function, which automatically releases the shutter the instant it detects the subject’s smile; and the Blinking Detection function, which warns the photographer when the subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.
High-sensitivity anti-shake mode to minimize camera/subject shake at indoor events and
fast-moving subjects
The X90 comes equipped with the advanced High-Sensitivity anti-shake (Digital SR) mode,* which allows the photographer to use higher shutter speeds in dimly lit locations by automatically shifting the sensitivity level to as high as ISO 6400 based on the subject’s lighting condition. By coupling this function with the dependable CCD-shift-type SR system, the photographer can effectively minimize adverse effects of camera shake and subject shake, even when shooting at such demanding locations as concert halls and indoor sports arenas.
* When the High-Sensitivity anti-shake mode is selected, the image size is fixed at 5M (2592 x 1944 pixels).
Additional features
• The Burst shooting* at a maximum speed of approximately 11 images per second to capture decisive moments
• Choice of image format: 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 or 1:1 proportions
• Large 2.7 inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots, treated withAR (Anti-Reflection) coating to minimize reflections
• Shooting mode palette for easy selection of a desired shooting mode from 20 different options,
including a new Baby mode programmed to capture the healthy, lively face of a baby
• D-Range setting to minimize excessively overexposed and underexposed areas in the image
• A selection of digital filters, including Toy Camera and Retro, to add creative visual effects
• MediaImpression 2.0 for PENTAX image viewing, editing and filing software included (compatible with latest operation systems, including Windows 7 and Mac OS X 10.6)
*When the continuous-shooting mode is selected, the image size is fixed at 5M (2592 x 1944 pixels).
Specifications
CAMERA HARDWARE
MODEL: X90
TYPE: Megazoom Digital Camera
PRODUCT CODE: 16561, UPC: 027075163126
SENSOR
Type: 1/2.33” interline transfer CCD w primary color filter Effective pixels: 12.1 Total pixels: 12.7 Recorded resolutions
Still: 12M (4000×3000), 10.7M (3:2, 4000×2672), 9M (16:9, 4000×2256), 9M (1:1, 2992×2992), 7M (3072×2304), 5M (2592×1944), 3M (2048×1536), 1024 (1024×768), VGA (640×480)
Movie: HD (1280x720p30/15), VGA (640x480p30/15), QVGA (320x240p30/15)
Quality levels: ??? (best), ?? (better), ? (good)
LENS
Type/construction: PENTAX zoom lens, 14 elements, 11 groups (4 aspheric elements, 3 ED elements)
Optical zoom: 26X
Focal length (equiv.): 4.6-119.6mm (26-676mm)
Digital zoom: 6.25X
Combined zoom: 162.5X
Intelligent zoom: Approx 33.9X at 7M to 162.5X at VGA
Aperture: F2.8-5.0
LCD/VIEWFINDER
LCD screen: 2.7” TFT color LCD w anti-reflective coating
LCD resolution: 230,000 dots
Wide angle viewable: Yes
Viewfinder: Yes, EVF, 200,000 dots with diopter control
FOCUS SYSTEM
Type: TTL contrast detection autofocus
Focus modes: 9 point AF, Spot AF, Auto Tracking AF, Macro, Super Macro, Infinity
Landscape, Manual, Focus Point Selection
Manual focus: Yes
Macro focus: Yes, Macro and Super Macro available
Focus lock: Yes, by pressing the shutter release button half way
Focus range
Normal: 1.31’ to infinity (wide), 5.6’ to infinity (tele)
Macro: 0.33-1.64’ (wide to mid zoom)
Super Macro: 0.03-0.98’ (at mid zoom, set automatically)
FLASH
Type: Retractable popup series-control auto flash
Flash modes: Auto, Flash Off, Flash On, Auto + Redeye, On + Redeye, Slow Sync,
Slow Sync + Redeye
Effective range: 30’ (wide, auto ISO), 17’ (tele, auto ISO)
STORAGE MEDIA
Internal memory: 31.2 MB
Removable memory: SD, SDHC
INTERFACES
Ports: USB 2.0 hi-speed, AV Out, HDMI (type D)
Video out: NTSC, PAL (HDMI out supports Auto, 1080i, 720p, 480p)
Printer interfaces: n/a
POWER SUPPLY
Power source: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery D-LI106
Recordable images: Approx 255
Playback time: Approx 360 min
Movie recording time: Approx 100 min
AC adapter available: Yes (optional)
PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions (W x H x D): 4.4 x 3.3 x 4.3” Weight
Without battery or removable memory: 14.1 oz
Loaded and ready: 15.1 oz
Construction material(s): Reinforced polycarbonate plastic Operating temperature: 32-104°F
Weather Resistant: n/a Shock Resistant: n/a
TIMING
Startup: Approx 1.6 sec
Release lag: Approx 0.021 sec
LANGUAGE SUPPORT
English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Japanese, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Greek, Russian, Thai, Korean, Simplified/Traditional Chinese
KIT COMPONENTS
X90, USB Cable I-USB7, AV Cable I-AVC7, Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery D-LI106, Battery Charge Cradle D-BC106, AC Plug Cord, Strap O-ST92, Lens Cap O- LC106, Software CD-ROM S-SW104
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
AC Adapter Kit K-AC106, Battery Charger Kit D-BC106, Megazoom Case, Optio Extended Warranty (+2 year)
IMAGE CAPTURE
IMAGE STABILIZATION
Still: Sensor-Shift SR, Digital SR (ISO 3200-6400 5M)
Movie: Movie SR
METERING SYSTEM
Type:
TTL Multi-segment: Yes
Center weighted: Yes
Spot: Yes
Exposure compensation: +/- 2 EV (1/3 steps)
ISO SENSITIVITY
Auto: 80-1600 auto range adjustable, Digital SR 80-6400 (ISO 3200-6400 5M)
Manual: 80-6400 (ISO 3200-6400 5M)
WHITE BALANCE
Auto preset modes: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten, Fluorescent (W, D, N) Manual mode(s): Yes
SHUTTER
Type: Programmed AE electronic lens shutter w CCD electronic shutter
Shutter speed: 1/4000 to 1/4 sec (up to 4 sec in Tv, Av, M, Night Scene modes)
CAPTURE MODES
Mode selection: Auto Picture (Standard, Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene Portrait, Night Scene, Sport, Flower), Sport, Digital SR (ISO 3200-6400 5M), Movie, USER, Manual, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Program, Scene (Landscape, Flower, Portrait, Backlight, Half Length Portrait (3M), Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Stage Lighting (2M), Surf & Snow, Baby, Kids, Pet, Food, Fireworks, Frame Composite (3M), Party, Museum, Sunset, Digital Wide (5M), Digital Panorama (2M per frame)), Green
Green simplified mode available: Yes
Face detection available: Yes (up to 32 faces in 0.03 sec), Smile Capture, Blink Detection P/A/S/M/B: P, A, S, M
Date stamp: Yes, date, date-time, time (not available in Green mode)
Digital filters (capture): Image Tone (Bright, Natural, Monochrome)
Dynamic Range Adjustment: Yes, highlight and shadow correction
DRIVE MODES
Mode selection: One Shot, Continuous, Burst (L, M, H) (5M), Self Timer, Interval, Auto Bracket
Continuous FPS: Approx 1.12 FPS, Burst L 4 FPS for 6 frames (5M), Burst M 7.14 FPS for 6 frames (5M), Burst H 11.11 FPS for 15 frames (5M)
Self-timer: Yes (10 sec, 2 sec)
Remote control: n/a
PLAYBACK MODES
Mode selection: One Shot, Index (4 or 9 thumbnails), Magnification, Movie Playback, Histogram, Folder Display, Select & Delete, Calendar
Mode pallet: Small Face Filter, Slideshow, Digital Filter, Frame Composite (3M), Resize, Cropping, Image & Sound Copy, Image Rotation, Movie Edit, Redeye Edit, Voice Memo, Protect, DPOF, Image Recovery, Startup Screen, Face Zooming
Magnification: Up to 10X, scrollable
Digital filters (playback): B&W, Sepia, Toy Camera, Retro, Color, Color Extract, Color Emphasis, Soft, Fisheye, Brightness Movie edit: Save as still image, movie divide
FILE FORMATS
Still: JPG (EXIF 2.2), DCF 2.0, DPOF, Print Image Matching III
Movie (compression): AVI (Motion JPG)
Sound: WAV (PCM), monaural
The above is an unedited press release provided by Pentax.
