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This story was printed from CNET Asia.
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Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro

29/03/2004
URL: http://asia.cnet.com/reviews/digitalcameras/0,39005881,39018306p,00.htm

A long-awaited successor to the FinePix S2 Pro digital SLR, the FinePix S3 Pro marks the debut of the 12.3-megapixel version of Fujifilm's SuperCCD SR. The chip, which is approximately the same size and aspect ratio as an Advanced Photo System (APS) film frame (resulting in a 1.5x focal-length multiplier for lenses), promises to deliver the improved dynamic range we first saw in the company's FinePix F700. Plus, its Nikon-compatible body supports F-mount lenses and any Speedlight flash.


Rather than using an existing Nikon body, the S3 opts for a custom single-piece polycarbonate shell, which should make the camera a bit more rugged and weather-resistant than a traditional model.

The S3's SuperCCD SR is designed to provide better dynamic range for capturing image highlights over traditional CCDs; most of the cameras in this market segment use higher-quality CMOS sensors. We'll have to wait and see if the SuperCCD SR can outcapture the competition.

Although pricing hasn't yet been announced, we expect the S3 to cost about US$3,000 (S$5,099) to US$4,000 (S$6,799)--significantly less than its main high-resolution competitor, the forthcoming Kodak DCS Pro SLR/n. Regardless, we think this camera will prove enticing to entry-level professionals and well-heeled enthusiasts, especially given the S2 Pro's enthusiastic fan base.

Specs
General
Color optionsBlack
Dimensions147.8 x 135.3 x 80 mm
Weight835 g
Inside The Camera
Optical sensorCCD
Sensor Resolution (max)6.45 megapixels
Resolution6.17 megapixels
Photodetectors (max)6.45 million
Photodetectors (effective)6.17 million
Zoom rangeFixed lens
Digital zoomNone
Light sensitivity (auto)100, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1600 ISO
Light sensitivityISO 100, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1600
White balance (new)Auto, Daylight, Fine, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Custom
Lens apertureFull range manual
FocusingAutofocus: TTL phase detection, Nikon Multi-CAM900 autofocus module; Detection range: EV -1 to EV 19 (ISO 100 equivalent, at normal temperature: 20°C/68°F)
Shutter speed30 to 1/4000 sec, Bulb, Max. 1/180 sec. X-contact
MeteringMulti-segment/Multi-pattern, Center-weighted average, Spot
Other useful featuresVoice memo mode,Self Timer ( 2 / 5 / 10 / 20 sec )
Outside The Camera
LCD size (new)2 inch
Viewfinder typePentaprism
Type of flashPop-up
Tripod mountYes
Connection (new)USB, Firewire
Video outYes
Battery type(s) (new)Lithium, NiMH, AA
Battery chargerAC power adapter AC-5VHS
Storage type(s)CompactFlash Type I, CompactFlash Type II, SmartMedia card
Remote controlYes
HotshoeYes
Image Capture
Still image format (new)JPEG, TIFF, RAW
Max. image resolution (new)4256 x 2848
Digital video captureNo
Audio captureNo
Accessories Included
CablesUSB cable, Firewire(IEEE 1394) and video cable
SoftwareUSB driver, FinePixViewer, RAW file managment software, software PDF manual, Adobe Photoshop Elements
OthersBody cap, LCD cover, eyepiece cover, neck strap, CD-ROM's (inc. Photoshop Elements), manual and quick start guide
Warranty
Service/SupportOne-year limited warranty