| 07/22/03 |
Nikon(R)
Announces High-Speed D2H(TM) Professional Digital SLR Camera
* D2H Becomes World's
Fastest Full System Performance Digital SLR;
* Captures Ultra-High Quality Images at 8 Frames Per Second;
* Available Wi-Fi Transmission Capabilities, Groundbreaking New Features
MELVILLE, N.Y., July
22 /PRNewswire/ -- Nikon (http://www.nikonusa.com), the world leader in photography,
today introduced the new D2H(TM) professional digital SLR camera, designed
for photojournalists and sports/action photographers. Featuring the fastest
full system performance in a digital SLR camera, the D2H sets a new standard
in speed and accuracy while achieving exceptional image quality. Virtually
every aspect of the camera's performance has been designed from the ground
up to facilitate high-speed photography under demanding conditions. The
D2H is capable of continuously shooting 8 frames per second and buffers
up to a staggering 40 JPEG images. It incorporates an all new 11-sensor
autofocus system with 9 cross type sensors and versatile performance,
a revolutionary new DX format 4.1 effective megapixel JFET imaging sensor
called 'LBCAST' designed by Nikon and Wi-Fi capabilities for 802.11b wireless
transmission of images. The D2H boasts an extensive new feature set that
is designed for extreme performance at every level. The camera is central
to a complete new imaging system for photojournalism and sports/action
photography that includes new Nikon Capture(TM) 4.0 software, new NikonView(TM)
6.1 software, new i-TTL(TM) speedlight technology, new WT-1 Wi-Fi transmitter
accessory, and three exciting new lenses including the world's first extreme
wide-angle AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED lens and the new AF-S
DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens, both designed exclusively for
Nikon digital SLR cameras, and the world's first super-telephoto AF-S
VR 200-400mm f/4G IF-ED lens with Nikon's advanced Vibration Reduction
technology designed for Nikon's 35mm and Digital SLR models.
"Motivated by Nikon's heritage in sports/action photography and photojournalism,
the D2H is introduced to set a new standard for high-speed digital photography.
Every function within the D2H system is optimized for fast, accurate and
extreme performance with Total Image Quality. Using a newly developed
original Nikon imaging sensor, the D2H is able to produce data-rich files
that are compact enough for immediate transmission and rapid workflow,
yet yield dramatically high image quality," said Richard LoPinto,
vice president of SLR camera systems, Nikon Inc. "While photographers
routinely associate image quality and especially image sharpness with
mega pixel count alone, engineers understand that there are a multitude
of additional factors that affect sharpness and total image quality. The
D2H's imaging sensor was developed together with associated support technology,
to overcome nearly every aspect of image quality degradation, including
false colors, noise, 'artifacting' and 'jaggies' to name a few. With the
D2H system, Nikon is leading action oriented digital photography into
a new realm where Total Image Quality takes precedence over any individual
image specification. With exciting new wireless compatibly, this new digital
SLR system truly sets new standards for performance and quality,"
he added. While the camera retains the familiar look and feel of Nikon's
D-series digital SLR cameras, it is completely redesigned under the hood,
and incorporates a host of new features and technologies that enable it
to deliver sports and action shots with impeccable image quality and detail.
Image Quality That
Surpasses Every Camera In Its Class
There
are many factors that affect a digital camera's final image quality. These
include color rendition, color accuracy, tone, contrast, sharpness, pixel
count, dynamic range, white balance, exposure accuracy, noise, digital
artifacts, false coloring, moire patterns and the appearance of 'jaggies.'
The D2H achieves unparalleled image quality in its class by aggressively
addressing each of these issues and utilizing new technologies to overcome
them. As a result, the D2H produces highly refined digital images that
have visibly noticeable superiority in image sharpness, detail, color
and resolution compared to other cameras in its class.
Exclusive New Nikon
4.1 megapixel JFET Imaging Sensor LBCAST
The D2H features a new 4.1 effective megapixel (2484 X 1636) DX format
JFET (Junction Field Effect Transistor) Imaging Sensor, called LBCAST
(Lateral Buried Charge Accumulator and Sensing Transistor Array). The
new sensor's technology and performance, as developed by Nikon meets the
challenging needs of photojournalists and sports/action photographers,
and provides the foundation for the D2H system's advanced performance.
The new sensor is not only capable of producing high image quality, but
also delivers high-speed performance. The sensor reads 2 channels of data
from each pixel -- while also handling brightness data in the same process
to achieve maximum image reproduction speed.
Additionally, its JFET technology, combined with a host of new innovations,
enables this sensor to render extremely low noise performance with extraordinary
color accuracy, detail, sharpness and overall quality that is unparalleled
by any other similarly sized sensor. A new ASIC (Application Specific
Integrated Circuit) design significantly reduces color artifacts and 'jaggies'
on oblique lines, while helping improve overall image sharpness. Next
generation signal processing algorithms improve automatic functions such
as auto white balance, auto tone control and auto color correction to
ensure optimal accuracy for each scene. A new color-processing engine
minimizes false colors, while maintaining superior color rendition, accuracy
and consistency. A high signal-to-noise ratio combined with high-level
image processing offers enhanced performance at high ISO settings. With
a new sensor design, powerful algorithms and new total image quality control
technologies, the D2H produces images far superior compared to other 4-mega
pixel cameras. With the added convenience of producing both NEF (Nikon
Electronic Format raw files) and JPEG files simultaneously, photographers
will find it easier than ever to harness the full power of NEF using Capture
4.0 software.
Advanced New White
Balance System
The D2H features an intelligent new white balance system that accurately
measures and calculates color temperature and white balance settings for
complex conditions and thereby supports the highest total image quality.
It achieves this by employing Triple Sensor metering, and determines values
from three different sources: a "third eye" incident meter located
on the prism of the camera measures environmental light, Nikon's exclusive
1,005 pixel RGB color meter sensor continuously measures reflected light
from the viewed image, and the DX image sensor measures color temperature
in real-time during the actual exposure. Advanced algorithms process the
perfect white balance setting for any given scene, using analysis of values
from each of the three sources. The D2H's white balance system has a wide
color range of 2,500K to 10,000K, and is able to detect and compensate
for artificial light flicker. For additional convenience, the D2H features
five preset-memory settings that can be alphanumerically labeled in the
camera so photographers can store white balance settings for venues they
frequent, like stadiums, indoor courts, etc. They can even extract white
balance settings from a picture taken by the camera, and using the white
balance preset functions, apply it to subsequent images.
Fast, Accurate, Responsive
-- It's All About Timing
The
D2H is the world's most responsive digital SLR camera. It has virtually
no start-up lag time, and is ready to shoot the instant it is turned on.
Its shutter lag time is a mere 37ms -- the lowest among all digital cameras,
and comparable to Nikon's legendary F5(TM) 35mm film SLR camera. The D2H
is capable of a continuous shooting rate of up to 8 frames per second
at full resolution and all file formats and ISO settings. The frame rate
remains consistent when any combination of the D2H's focus points is selected,
or even when older, non-CPU based Nikkor lenses are used. The D2H's enormous
buffer allows photographers to shoot up to 40 continuous images in JPEG
mode and 25 in NEF (RAW) mode, rendering buffer-stall virtually a non-issue.
All New Autofocus
System: Nikon Multi-Cam 2000(TM) technology
The D2H features the new Nikon Multi-Cam 2000(TM) next generation autofocus
system that is not only fast enough to keep up with the camera's rapid
continuous frame rate, but it is remarkably accurate in detecting focus
even in challenging situations, including dim lighting conditions as low
as EV -1. This new autofocus system consists of 11 AF sensors, 9 of which
are cross-type sensors laid out consistently with the rule of thirds for
composition, and an additional two sensors placed at the horizontal ends
of the frame. This ensures that the D2H has over 75% horizontal autofocus
coverage -- the widest cross-type sensor coverage in its class. Photographers
have the option of setting preferences for AF sensor selection, including
choosing each sensor individually or combining them into groups to ensure
ideal coverage in diverse picture taking compositions. The D2H also features
enhanced Dynamic AF and a new Group Dynamic AF detection option, as well
as Focus Tracking with Lock-On(TM) technology to ensure razor sharp pictures.
Taking the D2H's remarkable autofocus system one step further is its capability
for 'extreme focus detection.' A typical camera can detect focus in a
scene up to a certain 'defocus' limit, beyond which the camera enters
a scanning mode. During this mode, the camera's autofocus system scans
through the entire focusing range of the lens before detecting a focus
point. This process can waste precious time, especially when photographing
high-speed action. The D2H's autofocus system can detect focus in scenes
with about twice the defocus limit of other cameras, ensuring more accurate
and consistent operation.
High Speed Image Transfer
For Faster Workflow
Not only does the D2H process images faster, it is also equipped with
high-speed image transfer options that ensure the quickest transfer from
camera to workflow. The D2H has Lexar Media's(TM) Write Accelerated (WA)
technology standard, allowing faster write-to-card speeds when used with
Lexar's WA enabled CompactFlash(R) cards. The D2H features Hi-Speed USB
2.0 remote connectivity as well as compatibility with Wi-Fi for image
transfer over a wireless Local Area Network (LAN).
Wi-Fi Connectivity
For added speed, convenience, performance and potential, the D2H features
integrated Wi-Fi connectivity when used with the optional WT-1 accessory.
Based on standard IEEE-802.11b technology, the WT-1 can be attached to
the bottom of the D2H, and connected to the camera via its USB 2.0 port.
It transmits images via a local area network to a host computer access-point
using File Transfer Protocol (FTP) method, and can wirelessly transfer
data over a radius of approximately 30 meters (100 feet) with a supplied
one-inch antenna. An optional antenna is available for an extended range
of up to 150 meters (approx. 490 feet). To ensure secure wireless data
transmission, the D2H offers multiple levels of security including Wired
Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption, MacAddress, and ESS-ID. The camera
and optional WT-1 accessory can be set to various transmission configurations,
including the option to save images on the CompactFlash card and transmit
simultaneously. All the configurations and settings for wireless transmission
can be written separately in a computer text file and applied to multiple
cameras by downloading the file to a CompactFlash card and loading the
settings into each camera. The WT-1 draws its power supply from the D2H
battery, consuming roughly 20% of its charge during normal usage. Its
robust magnesium chassis construction and water resistant connectors match
the camera's construction and durability.
Comfortable, Logical
Design for Faster Handling
The D2H features significant improvements in user interface design that
facilitate faster and easier handling of the camera. The most noticeable
difference on the back of the D2H is its oversized LCD monitor that is
50% larger than previous models and centrally positioned on the camera's
back. The 2.5-inch (diagonal) screen has an anti-scratch surface and displays
larger, easier-to-read fonts. A new 8-way multi-selector enables diagonal
movement and makes scrolling through menus and panning over images easier
and faster. New larger controls and oversized buttons make operating the
camera with gloves effortless. An improved vertical shutter release interface
offers photographers greater control and handling while the camera automatically
detects orientation and tags vertical images to be rotated in Nikon View
software.
New Battery System
Geared For Power, Accuracy
The D2H utilizes a new Lithium-Ion based battery system that not only
powers the new technology and extreme performance in the camera very effectively,
but also offers new automatic calibration and comprehensive performance
monitoring features. The D2H battery meter indicates accurate battery
life on a percentage scale, with 5 percent increments, while a picture
meter indicates the number of images taken on a single battery charge.
Additionally, the battery information screen also specifies calibration
status and overall battery life in five stages, giving ample notice to
photographers to replace a battery that is exhausted and is unable to
hold a charge. The high-powered Li-Ion battery has a reduced memory effect,
is lighter in weight and provides improved cold weather performance.
If the Picture Matters,
The Camera Matters
The D2H is central
to a growing system of cameras, software, lenses, speedlights and accessories
that not only enhance performance, but also offer photographers potential
for immense postproduction image control, faster workflow and innovative
new features. Highlights of the new system include:
Capture 4.0 Software
New software that significantly extends the capabilities of the D2H and
unlocks the full power of NEF (Nikon Electronic Format) files while offering
a degree of NEF image control unmatched by other third-party software.
Capture 4.0 also boasts unique new features including Image Dust Off(TM)
technology
that automatically eliminates the appearance of sensor dust from a series
of images.
SB-800 Speedlight
Featuring New i-TTL Advanced Wireless Lighting:
An entirely new generation of speedlight technology was developed to realize
the full potential of the D2H. Featuring new wireless i-TTL flash control,
the SB-800 offers advanced wireless control of up to 3 remote groups with
any number of SB-800's in each group, providing photographers a new dimension
in multiple flash photography. The SB-800 also incorporates advanced flash
control including Flash Value Lock (FV-Lock), Auto FP High Speed Sync,
and Flash Color Information communication, for extreme color accuracy.
The SB-800 provides standard D-TTL functions when used with other D-series
Nikon digital SLR cameras.
DX-Nikkor Goes Wider
With Two New Wide-Angle Lenses:
Nikon defies convention by introducing two new DX-Nikkor wide-angle lenses,
designed exclusively for Nikon D-series digital SLR cameras. The AF DX
Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED is the world's first extreme wide-angle
fisheye lens designed for a digital SLR camera, offering a groundbreaking180
degree angle-of-view coverage (diagonally). Also, the new AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor
17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED significantly expands the range of DX-Nikkor lenses,
expected to become the standard lens for Nikon digital SLR camera users.
By virtue of being DX-Nikkor, designed exclusively for DX-format image
sensors in Nikon's digital SLR cameras, these new lenses are not only
compact and light-weight, but also offer outstanding edge-to-edge sharpness
and image quality. DX Nikkor lenses now cover the angles of view from
180 degrees to 28 degrees 50'!
World Premiere D2H
Appearance
The D2H will make its first public appearance at the 9th annual IAAF World
Championships in Athletics, at Stade de France, Paris starting August
23, 2003. This worldwide public appearance will be followed shortly by
a series of appearances at prolific U.S. sporting events. A schedule will
be announced shortly.
The Nikon D2H digital SLR camera is compatible with over 40 world-class
Nikkor lenses, and now three new DX Nikkor lenses designed exclusively
for Nikon's D-series digital SLR cameras. The D2H will be available in
the 4th quarter of 2003. The new WT-1 wireless transmitter accessory,
new SB-800 speedlight, new DX Nikkor lenses and Capture 4.0 software are
scheduled for release with the D2H.
About Nikon
Nikon ... If the picture matters, the camera matters(TM). Nikon Inc. is
the world leader in precision optics, 35mm and digital imaging technology
and is recognized worldwide for setting new standards in product design
and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic
equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes the Nikon Total Imaging System of consumer
and professional 35mm film and digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights
and System Accessories; Advanced Photo System cameras; 35mm compact cameras;
Nikon Coolpix(R) compact digital cameras; Coolscan(R) digital film scanners;
Nikonos(R) underwater photographic systems; and Nikon sports and recreational
optics. Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative(TM), the company, plays an
active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers through
a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events
and workshops. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit http://www.nikonusa.com,
which links all levels of photographers to the web's most comprehensive
photo learning and sharing communities.
SOURCE Nikon, Inc
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