If you’re having trouble keeping up with the latest news from PMA 2004, then visit the PMA 2004 Roundup Page to browse all of the latest headlines. With over 70 announcements since the show started, there’s plenty for you to take a look at. It may not be as advanced as DPReview’s coverage (product photos beamed directly from the show floor!), but it is pretty comprehensive…

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG INTRODUCES 5-MEGAPIXEL MODEL TO ITS HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL V SERIES LINE OF DIGITAL CAMERAS

SECAUCUS, N.J., (January FebruaryXX, 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of the Digimax V5 five-megapixel digital camera, the latest introduction to the highly successful Digimax V Series range of compact digital cameras.  The V5 is one of three new models added to the Samsung Digimax V Series at the start of 2004, and is prices at just $349. 

“The launch of the V5 further demonstrates Samsung?s commitment to the digital still camera space,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, National Sales for Samsung Cameras.  “As the market for high-end, prosumer type compact digitals shifts to higher resolution models, Samsung continues to anticipate consumer demand and deliver top quality products at affordable price points.  The V5 is based largely on the design and feature sets of our familiar and highly-successful V3 and V4 models, so we expect it to be well received by consumers.”

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG CAMERA ADDS STYLE AND SUBSTANCE TO COMPACT DIGITAL RANGE WITH NEW DIGIMAX V-SERIES MODELS

V50 and V40 Packed with Power and Features in Stylish Chassis

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera will be packing quite a punch at this year?s PMA as it is set to introduce its newest Digimax cameras, the successors to the company’s popular flagship digital camera lineup. Following the success of the Samsung Digimax V4 and V3 models (unveiled at PMA in March, 2003) the new V50 and V40 propel the Digimax lineup to new heights, with new capabilities and features.

“The V50 and V40 represent the next generation of the highly successful V series line introduced at last year’s PMA show,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice PresidentNational Sales for Samsung Camera.  “With features like MPEG-4 video compression, a 4cm (wide) macro feature, a 2-inch swivel LCD and compatibility with multiple external memory formats, these cameras are ideal for virtually every application.  Of course, they also offer all of the signature features of our existing V series line, such as Schneider optics, compatibility with 9 different power sources and a host of manual controls”. 

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG DIGIMAX 530 DELIVERS QUALITY AND VERSATILITY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera is proud to introduce the Digimax 530—a 5.0 megapixel digital camera that is big on quality and small on price.  A quality 5-megapixel auto focus digital camera with 3x optical and 4x digital zoom, the new Digimax 530 allows even the casual snap shooter to experience everything the 5-megapixel world has to offer without breaking the bank.  With an approximate street price of $279.99, the Digimax 530 is an incredible value. Its 1/1.8” CCD captures razor sharp images, and the 1.5” TFT LCD with multiple language support is ideal for image preview and review. 

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG LAUNCHES FULL-FEATURED, AFFORDABLE 3 AND 4 MEGAPIXEL DIGITAL CAMERAS IN DIGIMAX 370 AND 430

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera has always been known for bringing high-end technology to consumers at very competitive prices. The company has established a leadership position in the 35mm point and shoot category by delivering products that are the undisputed price/performance leaders in their respective classes.  The launch of its new Digimax 370 and 430 digital cameras at PMA 2004 underscores Samsung’s commitment to utilizing the same proven strategy in the digital still camera space. 

“The new Digimax 370 and 430 cameras epitomize our strategy of providing the consumer with a full complement of high-end features at affordable price points,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, Sales for Samsung Camera.  “Both come equipped with a host of features and technologies that are commonly found in much more expensive digital cameras.  The 370 and 430 are perfect for the consumer who wants the quality of a 3 or4 megapixel camera without the hefty price tag that normally comes along with it.”

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG DIGIMAX 250 OFFERS STATE-OF-THE-ART FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY IN AN AFFORDABLE, EASY-TO-USE PACKAGE

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Consumers who want all of the latest features and technologies in an easy-to-use, affordable digital still camera are about to find what they’re looking for in the new Samsung Digimax 250 model.  Introduced at PMA 2004, the Samsung Digimax 250 is a compact, 2.1 megapixel digital camera with a sleek ergonomic design, 2x optical and 2x digital zoom, still and video image capture capabilities and a host of additional features and functions.  Best of all, it comes at an approximate street price of just $139.99, making it as easy to own as it is to use!

The Samsung Digimax 250 was designed to meet the needs of even the most budget-conscious consumers who want to experience everything the digital world has to offer.  With 2x optical and 2x digital zoom, multiple power sources, MPEG-4 video compression and a host of creative capabilities, there isn’t much that can’t be done with the Digimax 250. 

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG CAMERA INTRODUCES INCREDIBLY COMPACT, INCREDIBLY STYLISH CAMERA

SAMSUNG U-CA 401—Small in Stature but Big on Features

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - PMA might be the scene for some of the most impressive sights around, but Samsung Camera is truly turning heads with the launch of its new U-CA 401 ultra compact digital camera. Sleek, compact and ultra thin (96.7mm x 60mm x 15mm), the U-CA 401 packs a ton of impressive features into a stylish body that’s small enough to take anywhere.  A 4 megapixel camera with 4x digital zoom, the U-CA 401 is destined to become the camera of choice for those who like to travel light, but record all of their experiences along the way.

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG CAMERA UNVEILS STYLISH, TINY, AFFORDABLE CAMERA FOR BUDDING PHOTOGRAPHIC ENTHUSIASTS

SAMSUNG Digimax U-CA 3 Provides Professional Features at Affordable Price, Perfect For Youth Market

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - PMA has always been the place to see what’s new in digital photography and get up close and personal with any new products before they hit the retail shelves.  This year is no exception, and Samsung Camera is doing its part to keep tradition alive with introducing its new Digimax U-CA 3 compact digital camera at the show. Aimed at the young photographer or the budding photo enthusiast, the U-CA 3 packs a range of professional features into one compact, affordable body, scarcely bigger than a cell phone.

“The U-CA 3 is the ideal product for today’s young, hip digital photo enthusiasts,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, Sales for Samsung Cameras.  “This camera is stylish, easy to use and packed with a host of cool new features that bring digital creativity and personalization to a whole new level.  Like all of the Digimax cameras, the U-CA 3 is aggressively priced, and packed with all of the latest features and capabilities”.

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF INEXPENSIVE ENTRY LEVEL DIGITAL CAMERAS

Ideal for First Time Buyers and Promotional Purposes

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of its new Samsung Digimax 401, 301 and 202 digital still cameras.  At 4.0, 3.14 and 2.0 effective megapixels respectively, the Digimax 401, 301 and 202 combine to form a new range of entry level compact digital still cameras designed specifically for first time users and promotional purposes.  Like all Samsung digital still cameras, each of these new models was designed to be the price/performance leader in its respective class.  With approximate street prices of $179.99 for the 401, $129.99 for the 301 and $99.99 for the 202, there is little doubt that these new models will easily achieve that objective. 

“Every Samsung Digimax model is designed to be the price/performance leader within its class,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President of Sales for Samsung Camera.  “From the V Series cameras at the highest end of the spectrum to these three models at the entry level position, consumers can count on Samsung cameras to offer all of the same features and functionalities as the other major manufacturers’ cameras—at lower price points.  Our strategy is to deliver a unique combination of quality AND value, and this new entry-level line typifies that approach”. 

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

THE DIGIMAX I-PACK RECHARGEABLE LITHIUM ION BATTERY - ANOTHER WORLD’S FIRST FROM SAMSUNG CAMERA

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung is proud to announce the world’s first rechargeable Lithium-Ion CR-series battery pack. Known as the Digimax Battery I-Pack, it can replace two conventional AA cells or a single CR-V3 battery in today’s digital cameras while providing the high voltage and low temperature performance they demand.  The I-Pack is compatible with numerous cameras yet is specifically designed as a power source for the Digimax series of digital cameras, including the V50, V5, 530, V40, V4, 430, 401, 370, V3, 250 and 202.

“No matter what kind of electronic devices consumers use today, the need for a reliable, long-lasting power source is universal,” said Ken Gerb, senior vice president of sales for Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc. “With the introduction of the new I-Pack rechargeable battery, we?ve delivered an ideal power solution for the majority of the cameras within the Digimax line.”

Samsung Camera Press Release 12/02/04

SAMSUNG ADDS 1350Ti TO ITS POPULAR MAXIMA LINE OF 35MM POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERAS

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of its new Maxima 1350Ti fully automatic 35mm point-and-shoot camera. The new camera features a 38-135mm Samsung SHD (Super High Definition) lens with aspherical elements for extra sharpness and a built-in flash with a maximum range of 37.7 ft with ISO 400 film. The camera covers a wide range of focal lengths and works perfectly for shooting any subject—indoors or out.  The built in Quartz Date feature offers advanced imprinting capabilities, allowing the user to record the date and time of every photo right on the negative.  With an approximate street price of $99.99, the Samsung Maxima 1350Ti camera combines affordability and ease-of-use with outstanding image quality.

“Despite the tremendous growth of digital photography, many consumers still want the familiarity and convenience of a 35mm, point and shoot camera,” said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, Sales for Samsung Camera. “Samsung has long been a leader in providing top quality, affordable products for those consumers, and will continue to do so as long as the demand exists.”

There has been no official press release from Epson or Cosina, but Imaging Resource are reporting that the two companies have joined forces and are showing at PMA an interchangeable lens rangefinder digital camera that accepts Leica M-type lenses. Apparently more information about this mysterious camera will be forthcoming in March; until then Imaging Resource have 5 photos that you can take a look at.

Website: Imaging Resource - Epson/Cosina Interchangeable Lens Digital Rangefinder

Steves Digicams is the third website in the last couple of days to publish their Preview of the new 8-megapixel Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom digital camera.

“When manually focusing you get an onscreen distance gauge (in feet or meters) and a magnified center view which makes it easier to actually “see” the proper focus. The C-8080 features iESP multi-pattern AF (autofocus) TTL system (contrast detection), Spot AF, Selective Spot AF and Full Time AF. Auto or Manual focus with 240 steps.”

Website: Steves Digicams - Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom Preview

DIMA Press Release 13/02/04

Nine digital cameras were named winners in the 2004 DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out today at the PMA 2004 Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, Nev., USA.

Over 50 digital camera entries and 13 manufacturers participated in the 8th Annual DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out, which took place on Friday, Feb. 13, at the DIMA Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nev. Participating camera manufacturers captured images in four live-model studios.

Images from the point-and-shoot cameras were printed on three different digital minilab systems including the Agfa D-Lab 2 Plus supplied by Agfa Corp., the Fuji Frontier 370 supplied by Fuji Photo Film U.S.A. Inc., and the Noritsu 3101 supplied by Noritsu America.

Images from the Prosumer/Professional category were output through a G4 Power Mac running Adobe PhotoShop CS and printed on an Epson Photo Stylus 9600 inkjet printer, supplied by Epson America Inc. Color management support for the DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out was provided by GretagMacbeth, using Sony Artisan displays donated by Sony Electronics.

Argus Unveils Four New Digital Cameras Under $50, Including the Market’s Lowest-Priced Models With Color LCD Screens - New 1700 Series Set for Apr

PR Newswire via NewsEdge Corporation : LAS VEGAS, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/—PMA Show, Suites X20-22—Argus Camera today announced a new Argus 1700 Series of entry-level digital cameras that will include the market’s least expensive models with full-color LCD screens and external memory card slots, plus one of the lowest-priced digital cameras with a 1.3-megapixel resolution. Cameras in the series will be available at major mass market retailers in April..TABLE The series will include:—The Argus DC 1710 (MSRP $39.99), a VGA model with a color LCD display and an 8MB internal memory capable of storing up to 117 photos.—The Argus DC 1730 (MSRP $44.99), identical to the DC 1710 with the addition of an automatic flash.—The Argus DC 1750 (MSRP $49.99), featuring an external slot that is compatible with SecureDigital/MultiMedia (SD) Cards for unlimited image capacity and easy printing at photo finishing kiosks, plus VGA resolution, an 8MB internal memory, an automatic flash, and a color LCD display.—The Argus DC 1770 (MSRP $44.99), a 1.3-megapixel model with a 4x digital zoom, a text-based status LCD, an SD Card-compatible external memory card slot, an 8MB internal memory, and an automatic flash.

Panasonic Press Release 12/02/04

PANASONIC INTRODUCES NEW 5-MEGAPIXEL LUMIX DIGITAL STILL CAMERA WITH LEICA LENS AND FULL MANUAL CONTROLS

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 13, 2004) - Once again Panasonic revolutionizes the world of digital photography with the new DMC-LC1 Lumix camera.  The DMC-LC1 has a digital brain but the heart and soul of a finely crafted 35mm camera, right down to its controls.  A true breakthrough in digital camera craftsmanship, the 5-megapixel DMC-LC1 brings a traditional photographic experience to the digital world, evoking the look, feel, precision, and responsiveness of a 35mm camera.  Zoom, focus and aperture are manually controlled by ring settings on the lens; shutter speed is controlled by a dial located on the top of the unit.  And, like all of Panasonic’s Lumix models, the DMC-LC1 features a high-performance Leica lens for extraordinary image rendering.

The DMC-LC1 combines unrivalled Leica optics with Panasonic’s most advanced digital electronic technology to create a camera that allows photographers to experience a new level of creative expression.  The camera’s full manual operation serves as a natural extension of the photographer’s hands and eyes.

Leica lenses retain a legendary reputation for creating images that capture the most delicate nuances of light and shade, the elusive ambience of “air”, and subtle gradations of color.  The new DMC-LC1 incorporates a finely crafted, F2.0 - 2.4 Leica DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens (13 elements in 10 groups) with zoom capability equivalent to 28 - 90mm on a 35mm camera.

Imaging Resource have already posted their usual detailed profile of the new DSLR from Kodak, the 14 megapixel DCS Pro SLR/n, which was announced yesterday.

“Kodak’s new DSC-SLR/n digital SLR is a strong update to their previous Pro 14n model, with very similar specifications, but greatly improved performance in several key areas. The enhancement that will undoubtedly be the most welcome for prospective users is its greatly improved noise performance, thanks to a redesigned CMOS sensor chip, a change in fabrication provider, and a redesigned analog electronics board. At the same time, Kodak has improved the SLR/n’s image processing, revamped the calibration algorithms to improve responsiveness, and improved its power management. Other SLR/n enhancements include a unique long-exposure/ultra-low ISO mode that lets you capture up to 60-second exposures at ISO 6 for exceptionally low image noise and unique time-exposure creative effects.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Kodak DCS Pro SLR/n Preview

Imaging Resource have also published their Preview of the new 8-megapixel Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom digital camera.

“We’ll have to wait for a production model before we’ll know what sort of photos the C-8080 snaps, but based on its specs and features, it appears to kick the bar up another notch for high-end prosumer digicams. (And stay tuned, there are yet other 8 megapixel cameras coming just a little later this year as well!)”

Website: Imaging Resource - Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom Preview

DCResource has posted a detailed Preview of the new 8-megapixel Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom digital camera.

“The camera does very well in the shutter lag department, as well. I didn’t notice it at all until slow shutter speeds like 1/8 sec), and even then, it was barely noticeable.

Shot-to-shot speed is excellent, with a delay of just over one second, assuming you’ve turned off the post-shot review feature. When in TIFF mode, the camera will be locked up for about 18 seconds while the image is being written to the memory card. In RAW mode, the delay is around 13 seconds.”

Website: DCResource - Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom Preview

Microtek Press Release 13/02/04

Microtek Announces XPan Support for ArtixScan 120tf Multiformat Film Scanner

High-resolution film scanner is now enhanced with XPan support of 35mm x 78mm panoramic film

Las Vegas, NV (February 13, 2004) - Microtek, a leader in digital imaging for over 20 years, announced here at PMA today expanded 35mm panoramic film support for the ArtixScan 120tf, its awardwinning multiple-format film scanner.

With the newly added XPan support, the ArtixScan 120tf is now able to accommodate scanning of 35mm x 78mm panoramic film, in addition to supporting 35mm slides, 35mm filmstrips, and four sizes of medium-format film, including 6x4.5, 6x6, 6x7, and 6x9. Three film holders that can accommodate all of the above-mentioned film types are included with the scanner: a four-frame 35mm slide holder; a six-frame 35mm filmstrip holder that also accommodates two strips of the newly supported 35mm panoramic film; and a holder for the medium-format film.