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Nikon's D2X digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Nikon announces long-awaited D2x digital SLR
By
(Thursday, September 16, 2004 - 02:08 EDT)

Nikon USA has today announced its D2x single-lens reflex digital camera, the long-rumored and much anticipated partner to the existing D2H model.

Featuring an impressive combination of 12.4 megapixel resolution from a CMOS sensor, and five frames-per-second shooting with a burst depth of 15 NEF RAW frames, the camera can be made even faster by switching to a lower resolution 6.8 megapixel mode. This operates at eight frames-per-second up to 26 NEF frames. There's a proviso, though - unusually, this higher-speed burst operates by reading only from the center of the imager, which means that to get the higher speed, the focal length crop changes from the regular 1.5x of a DX sensor, to 2.0x (the smaller area being indicated by crop marks in the viewfinder which are illuminated in red when using the mode). The D2x uses the same Multi-Cam2000 AF sensor found in the D2H, offering 11-point focusing (only nine of these points being available in the high-speed cropped mode).

Other interesting features include a new image processing engine, two new Adobe RGB color modes, improved matrix metering, 37ms shutter lag, "instant" startup, improved CompactFlash write and USB 2.0 transfer speeds, a larger 2.5" LCD monitor, a new wireless transmitter that allows remote control of the camera, and the unusual option to overlay multiple RAW images (with a specified ratio) in-camera, as well as to create multiple-exposure shots from up to ten consecutive exposures. The Nikon D2x should be available around the end of the year or the beginning of 2005, with pricing comparable to the D1x' original price when introduced.

Full specifications courtesy of Nikon, along with an introductory document, numerous product photos, and the official press release follow.


Nikon D2X: The New Definition of Professional Quality

Nikon has integrated the best of its world-leading camera expertise with stunning advances in digital technologies to realize the only digital SLR camera truly equipped to meet the changing landscape of professional photography. The Nikon D2x blends for the first time the high levels of resolution commercial clients demand with class-leading levels of speed, handling and consistent color. Workflow remains efficient, consistent, even under difficult conditions, yielding output of the finest quality with the detail to allow editing as the assignment demands.

Key Features:

High Resolution and Color Purity

New DX Format Image Sensor: 12.4 million effective pixels
A new DX Format CMOS sensor captures 12.4 million effective pixels per image and delivers high resolution and sharp detail needed for professional results. DX Format means the sensor is optimized for use with DX lenses and is compatible with the full lineup of quality Nikkor lenses.

Nikon's new high-resolution image processing engine
Nikon's new generation system LSI greatly improves the precision of processing over previous schemes. With optimized distribution of analog and digital white balance gain, another first, the new engine produces smoother gradations with consistent and smooth transitions, all with exceptionally pure color rendition.

Two new Adobe RGB color modes further expand professional color space options with the new engine achieves beautiful reproductions of skin tones. Support for sYCC color space produces JPEG files with a gamut wider than sRGB to fully exploit the output capabilities of the latest color printers.

Precise white balance for accurate color
The latest generation of Nikon's metering technology combines three separate sensors to achieve refined Auto While Balance and Auto Tone Control. Full manual white balance control options include white balance present and the direct setting of Kelvin color temperature.

Improves 3D-Color Matrix Metering II
An improved Matrix Metering system allows Nikon's acclaimed 1,005-pixel RGB Exposure/Color Matrix Metering Sensor to better determine the position and size of shadow or highlight areas and achieve optimum exposure for each shot.

Fast Speed, Immediate Response, Dual Speed Versatility

Immediate response
Instant power-up with an almost imperceptible 37ms shutter lag matches the class-leading response of the Nikon D2 H , an astounding achievement at this resolution level.

High-speed continuous shooting
Optimized camera systems realize unprecedented continuous shooting at full 12.4 megapixel resolution of 5 fps for 15 consecutive NEF images. When the situation demands yet faster frame rates, the 6.8 megapixel High Speed Cropped mode allows 8 fps shooting for 26 NEF images.

Fast, precise 11-area AF system
Nikon's acclaimed Mutli-CAM2000 AF Sensor features nine cross point sensors placed in the rule of thirds layout with an additional two at each side of the frame. Dynamic AF options are added when using the Group Dynamic AF mode as well.

Faster data handling
The D2 X cam access CompactFlash™ (CF) cards to read and write data faster than any of its predecessors. The transfer rate of the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface is also improved. Simultaneous recording of NEF and JPEG files helps maximize workflow efficiency.

Handling Efficiency and Ergonomic Design

Built to withstand the rigors of professional use
The D2 X is built to perform reliably, from its lightweight and highly durable magnesium alloy body with enhanced sealing that protects against drops of water and dust, to its field proven shutter unit.

Freedom to concentrate on the subject
The camera's large controls and buttons are positioned for intuitive control that frees the photographer to concentrate on composition. Regardless of camera orientation, operation remains consistently comfortable with virtually the same access to primary controls.

Unrivaled lithium-ion battery system
The D2 X 's compact rechargeable lithium-ion battery delivers extended longevity and high energy capacity capable of approx. 2000 shots per charge, with accurate real-time system status displays.

Large 2.5-inch LCD for easy info access
A new 2.5-inch LCD monitor features an all-digital interface for clear, flicker-free display of preview images and logically organized Shooting and Custom Settings menus. On-demand information includes an improved histogram and new RGB Histogram displays, as well as a chronological Recent Settings list.

Rich Features and Customization

Location data expands possibilities
GPS units that comply with NMEA 0183 can be connected via the optional GPS cable (MC-35) to record data on latitude, longitude, and altitude, or to adjust the D2 X 's built-in World Time settings.

Creative in-camera effects
The new Multiple Exposure function creates a single image from up to 10 exposures. The Image Overlay function merges selected NEF files already stored on the CF memory card to create a new image file within the camera.

New Wireless Transmitter WT-2
Features include IEEE 802.11b/g support for faster transfer speeds, broader support for network protocols and greater security options. Another new feature that realizes extensive new picture taking potential is wireless Capture Control from a computer running Nikon Capture 4 (ver. 4.2)



Nikon D2x
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Type of camera Lens-interchangeable digital SLR camera
Effective pixels 12.4 million
Image sensor CMOS sensor, 23.7 x 15.7mm size, 12.84 million total pixels
Recording pixels
Full image: [L] 4,288 X 2,848-pixel / [M] 3,216 x 2,136-pixel / [S] 2,144 x 1,424-pixel
High Speed Cropped image: [L] 3,216 x 2,136-pixel / [M] 2,400 x 1,600-pixel / [S] 1,600 x 1,064-pixel
Sensitivity ISO equivalency 100 to 800
Storage system NEF (12-bit uncompressed or compressed RAW), Exif 2.21, DCF 2.0 and DPOF compliant (uncompressed TIFF-RGB or compressed JPEG)
Storage media CompactFlash™ (CF) Card (Type I/II) and Microdrive™
Shooting modes

1) Single frame shooting [S] mode: advances one frame for each shutter release,

2) Continuous high shooting [CH] mode: Full image; 5 frames per second / High Speed Cropped image; 8 frames per second (fps),

3) Continuous low shooting [CL] mode: Full image, 1 to 4 frames per second (fps)(selectable in menu) / High Speed Cropped image; 1 to 7 frames per second (fps)(selectable in menu),

4) Self-timer mode: time duration can be set,

5) Mirror up mode: first press: mirror up, second press: release

White balance

1) Auto (hybrid with 1,005-pixel RGB Sensor, CMOS image sensor and external Ambient Light Sensor),

2) Manual (6 steps with fine tuning),

3) Preset (5 settings),

4) Color temperature setting in Kelvin (select from 31 steps),

5) White Balance Bracketing (2 to 9 frames adjustable in 10, 20, 30 MIRED steps)

LCD monitor 2.5-in., 235,000-dot, low temp. polysilicon TFT LCD with white LED backlighting; Backlight/brightness adjustment available
Playback function 1) Full frame, 2) Thumbnail (4/9 segments), 3) Zoom, 4) Slideshow, 5) RGB Histogram indication, Shooting data and Highlight point display
Delete function 1) Card format, 2) All frames delete, 3) Selected frames delete
Video output NTSC or PAL (selectable in menu)
Interface
USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed)(Mini-B connector)
FTP file transfer available with optional Wireless Transmitter
WT-1/1A (IEEE 802.11b) and WT-2/2A (IEEE 802.11b/g)
CF card slot Type II+: supports firmware updates via CF cards
Voice memo Record mode: Automatic or manual recording at shooting or playback, max. recording time: 60 seconds; Playback mode: Built-in speaker or Audio/Video Cable. File format: Mono WAV file
Text input Up to 36 characters of alphanumeric text input is available with LCD monitor and multi-selector; stored in Exif header
Usable lenses
1) AF Nikkor (including AF-S, DX, VR and D-/G-type): All functions possible
2) D-type Manual-Focus Nikkor: All functions except autofocus and some exposure modes available
3) AF Nikkor other than D-/G-type: All functions except 3D-Color Matrix Metering II and 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash possible
4) AI-P Nikkor: All functions except 3D-Color Matrix Metering II, 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and AF possible
5) Non-CPU AI Nikkor: Usable in [A] or [M] mode with Matrix Metering, Center-Weighted and Spot Metering available.
Indication of aperture No., after user inputs the aperture f/No. and focal length f=mm by multi-selector operation
Electronic rangefinder usable with maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster
Picture angle
Full image: Approx. 1.5x focal length in 35mm [135] format equivalent
High Speed Cropped image: Approx. 2x focal length in 35mm [135] format equivalent
Viewfinder Optical-type fixed eye-level pentaprism; Built-in diopter adjustment (=3 to +1m), Eyepiece shutter provided
Eyepoint 19.9mm ( at -1.0m)
Focusing screen Type-B BrightView Clear Matte Screen III and Type-V Screen for High Speed Cropped; Interchangeable with optional Type-E Focusing Screen with grid
Viewfinder frame coverage Approx. 100%
Viewfinder magnification Approx. 0.86x with 50mm f/1.4 lens set to infinity and -1.0m
Reflex mirror Automatic, instant-return type
Lens aperture Instant-return type, with Depth-of-field Preview button
Autofocus TTL phase detection, Nikon Multi-CAM2000 autofocus module; Detection range: EV -1 to +19 (Right edge / Left edge AF range: EV 0 to +19) [at normal temperature 20°C / 68°F), ISO 100 equivalent
Lens servo 1) Single Servo AF [S], 2) Continuous Servo AF [C], Manual focus [M], Focus Tracking automatically by subject's name in [S] or [C] AF
Focus area Selectable from 11 focus areas (High Speed Cropped: 9 focus areas)
AF Area modes 1) Single Area AF, 2) Dynamic AF with Focus Tracking and Locking and Lock-on™, 3) Closest Subject Priority Dynamic AF, 4) Group Dynamic AF
Focus Lock Focus is locked by pressing AE/AF Lock button or lightly pressing shutter release button in [S] AF
Exposure metering system
TTL full-aperture exposure metering system
1) D-/G-type Nikkor lenses support 3D-Color Matrix Metering II using the 1,005-pixel RGB Sensor while other AF Nikkor lenses with built-in CPUs support Matrix Metering (Non-CPU lenses require manual input of lens data)
2) Center-Weighted Metering (75% of the meter's sensitivity concentrated on the 8mm dia. circle) given to 6, 10 or 13 mm dia. circle in center of frame, or weighting based on average of entire frame
3) Spot Metering (3mm dia. circle, approx. 2% of entire frame); metering position wcan be linked to the focus area when using Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU
Exposure metering ranges
1) 3D-Color Matrix Meeting II: EV 0 to 20,
2) Center-Weighted Metering: EV 0 to 20,
3) Spot Metering: EV 2 to 20 [at normal temperature (20°C/68°F) ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens]
Exposure meter coupling CPU and AI (Automatic maximum aperture indexing)
Exposure modes
[P] Programmed Auto (Flexible program possible
[S] Shutter-Priority Auto
[A] Aperture-Priority Auto
[M] Manual
Exposure compensation Exposure compensated in +/-5.0 EV range in 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV steps
Auto exposure lock Detected exposure value locked by pressing AE-L/AF-L button
Auto exposure bracketing Number of shots: 2 to 9 frames, Compensation steps: 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV steps
Shutter Electromagnetically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter, 30 to 1/8,000 second and bulb
Sync contact X-contact only: flash synchronization up to 1/250 second
Flash control
1) New creative lighting system - i-TTL balanced fill-flash controlled by TTL sensor with Nikon Speedlight SB-800/600: Advanced wireless lighting, FV (Flash Value) Lock, Flash Color Information Communication for Auto White Balance, Auto FP High-Speed Flash Sync, Modeling Flash
2) D-TTL balanced fill-flash: When used with the Speedlight SB-80DX/50DX and in accordance with the mounted lens, five-segment TTL Multi-Sensor control makes available 3D Mult- Sensor balanced fill-flash, Multi-Sensor balanced fill-flash, and Standard D-TTL balanced fill-flash
3) AA (Auto Aperture-type) Flash available when used with SB-800/80DX and lens with built-in CPU
4) Non-TTL Auto Flash (A-type Flash) with a Speedlight such as SB-800/30/27/22s etc.
5) Range-priority manual available with SB-800
Flash sync modes 1) Front-curtain Sync (normal sync), 2) Red-eye reduction, 3) Red-eye reduction with Slow Sync, 4) Slow Sync, 5) Rear-curtain Sync
Ready-light Lights up when flash fully charged with Speedlight SB-800 / 600 / 80DX / 50DX / 30 / 28 / 27 / 22s; blinks for full output warning
Accessory shoe ISO 518 standard-type hot shoe contact; Safety lock mechanism provided
Sync Terminal ISO 519 standard terminal, lock provided
Self-timer Electronically controlled; Timer duration: 2, 5, 10 and 20 seconds
Depth-of-field preview button Stop-down lens aperture by pressing Depth-of-field preview button
Remote control Via 10-pin remote terminal
GPS NMEA 0183 Interface standard supported with GPS Cable MC-35 (optional)
Supported languages English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Swedish, Simplified Chinese, Korean, Japanese (selectable in menu)
Power requirements Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4 (11.1V DC), Quick Charger MH-21, AC Adapter EH-6 (optional)
Battery monitoring system The LCD monitor on the camera back displays the following information about the EN-EL4 battery: 1) Remaining charge (%); 2) No. of shots taken since last charge; 3) Calibration status (Recommended/Not required); 4) Battery life (5 stages)
Tripod socket 1/4 in. (ISO1222)
Dimensions (W x H x D) Approx. 157.5 x 149.5 x 85.5mm (6.2 x 5.9 x 3.4 in.)
Weight (without battery) Approx. 1,070g (2.4 lbs)
Supplied accessories* Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4, Quick Charger MH-21, Body Cap, Camera Strap AN-D2x, Audio Video Cable EG-D2, USB Cable UC-E4, LCD Monitor Cover BM-3, Battery Chamber Cover BL-1, Type-V Focusing Screen, PictureProject software CD-ROM
Optional Accessories
Wireless Transmitter WT-2/2A/WT-1/1A, Extended Range Antenna WA-E1, AC Adaptor EH-6, Type-E Focusing Screen, Antifog Finder Eyepiece DK-17A, Eyepiece Correction Lens DK-17C series, Speedlight SB-800/SB-600, Nikon Capture 4 (ver. 4.2) software, CompactFlash™ card

* Supplied accessories may differ in each country or area

More Photos
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Nikon's D2x digital camera. Courtesy of Nikon, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
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Original Source Press Release:

NIKON ® ANNOUNCES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED D2x PROFESSIONAL DIGITAL SLR CAMERA

12.4-Megapixel D2x Offers Class-leading Combination of High Image Quality, High-Speed and High-Resolution in a Single Camera Body

All-New Wi-Fi Options Include Wireless Remote Camera Control and High Speed Crop Mode

MELVILLE, NY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2004 – Nikon ® ( www.nikondigitalusa.com ), the world leader in photography, today announced the new D2x™ professional digital SLR camera. Designed as a truly versatile workhorse camera for many professional disciplines, the D2x blends for the first time the high levels of resolution commercial clients demand with superb image quality, color consistency and class-leading speed. The D2x delivers high image quality using brand new innovations that produce ultra sharp images with very fine gradations and smooth color transitions across the color range – all while maintaining impeccable color accuracy, even when shooting under rapidly changing light. High resolution is achieved by an all-new 12.4 million pixel DX Format CMOS image sensor and a new image processing engine that works seamlessly with optimized systems throughout the camera. Even with this tremendous resolution, the D2x can comfortably shoot full resolution images at 5 frames per second (up to 21 consecutive JPEGS and 15 NEFs). When the situation demands yet faster frame rates, the D2x has a unique 6.8 megapixel ‘High Speed Cropped Image' mode that boosts the shooting rate to 8 frames per second, up to 35 consecutive JPEGs or 26 NEF images, by cropping the number of pixels used on the sensor to create the image.

The D2x proves to be the only digital SLR camera truly equipped to meet the changing landscape of professional photography. Not only does it successfully combine high resolution, speed and quality, but it also introduces exclusive technologies that promise to expand the realm of digital photography. Options such as the newly introduced WT-2A Wi-Fi transmitter achieves full wireless remote camera control and transmission, while the revolutionary i-TTL Speedlight technology included in the D2x ensures radical new possibilities in creative lighting.

“Today's working professional photographers have to be more versatile than ever, and with the introduction of the D2x Nikon now offers pro photographers the highest levels of quality, features and resolution to respond to their ever-changing needs,” said Jerry Grossman, vice president, marketing for Nikon inc. “While the 12.4 megapixel resolution of the D2x addresses a critical issue for photographers, other features such as improved color resolution, the high speed crop mode and affordability make the D2x the most versatile and powerful camera available for professionals.”

Unparalleled Image Quality
With an all new, high performance 12.4 megapixel DX Format CMOS sensor, the D2x delivers the high resolution and sharp detail needed for professional results. However, a high resolution sensor is only part of the equation in delivering the ultimate image quality. The D2x employs Nikon's new generation system LSI that greatly improves the precision of processing during the analog/digital conversion. After digital conversion, a new processing method has been added to increase image-processing precision in the ASIC for smoother display of tones from highlight portions to shadow portions of the image. With optimized distribution of analog and digital white balance gain, the new engine produces smoother gradations with consistent and smooth transitions, all with exceptionally pure color rendition.

In addition to two new Adobe RGB color modes that further expand professional color space options with the new engine, the D2x also supports the sYCC color profile found in many of the latest printers. With sYCC support, photographers can produces JPEG files with a gamut wider than sRGB and fully exploit the output capabilities of their latest color printers.

An improved metering system in the D2x , called 3D-Color Matrix Metering II, allows Nikon's acclaimed 1,005-pixel RGB Exposure/Color Matrix Metering Sensor to better determine the position and size of shadow or highlight areas and achieve optimum exposure for each shot.

Unparalleled Speed
Professionals need their cameras to be as fast as they are. Therefore, similar to the blazing fast D2h , the D2x adopts a holistic approach to speed. The camera is ready to shoot the instant it is turned on and has an almost imperceptible 37ms shutter lag time, an astounding achievement at this resolution level. Using a new high-speed 4-channel output method, and improved speed of transferring image data from the image sensor to a memory card, the D2x is capable of shooting 5 frames per second at full 12.4 megapixel resolution for up to 21 JPEGs or 15 NEFs. The camera's unique High Speed Cropped Image mode allows photographers to achieve an even higher continuous shooting rate of 8 frames per second by using a dual area sensor that records only 6.8 million pixels in the center of the sensor. While photographers are satisfied with 5 frames per second for most applications, this new mode gives them the duality of having the option to shoot at faster framing rates for specific situations, within one camera body.

The D2x also boasts Nikon's acclaimed Mutli-CAM2000 high-speed AF system that features eleven autofocus sensors of which nine are cross type and placed in the rule of thirds layout.

Unparalleled Design and Ergonomics
The D2x is consistent with the D2h in terms of body design, ergonomics and interface. The camera's large controls and buttons are positioned for intuitive control that frees the photographer to concentrate on the composition. Regardless of the camera's orientation, operation remains consistently comfortable and with virtually the same access to primary controls. The D2x features an improved energy efficient design that when combined with its unrivaled lithium-ion battery system, delivers extended longevity and high energy capacity capable of approx. 2,000 shots per charge, with accurate real-time system status displays. A new 2.5-inch, 235,000 pixel high resolution LCD monitor features an all-digital interface for clear, flicker-free display of preview images and logically organized Shooting, Playback, Set-up and Custom Settings menus. On-demand information includes an improved histogram and new RGB Histogram displays, as well as a chronological ‘History Menu' that lists recently accessed settings.

Unparalleled System Innovations
Nikon's Total Imaging System is unrivaled in innovation and offers photographers the most cutting edge new technologies and features to incorporate in their workflow. Outlined below are groundbreaking technologies that enable photographers to achieve results not possible with any other system:

New Wireless Transmitter WT-2A
Nikon's Wireless Transmitter WT-1A for the D2h opened new roads in digital SLR photography by making it possible to transmit images directly from the camera over a wireless LAN. Now, the new Wireless Transmitter WT-2A will open the floodgates of creativity for photographers by allowing them to not only transmit images over a Wi-Fi network, but also allow wireless remote control of the D2x over a Wi-Fi network from a computer running Capture 4.2 software. Photographers can set the D2x in places that may be inaccessible or unsuitable for photographers, and wirelessly adjust settings, trigger the camera, and instantly retrieve the images over a LAN. The applications of this technology are promising and limitless. The new IEEE802.11b/g compatible Wireless Transmitter WT-2A also provides faster image transmission with improved security and compatibility with the latest protocols.

i-TTL Speedlight Technology
First debuted with Nikon's D2h digital SLR camera, Nikon's i-TTL speedlight technology is arguably the most robust and advanced speedlight system in the world, and holds limitless possibilities for all kinds of photographers using creative lighting. i-TTL technology in the D2x allows photographers to wirelessly control in full TTL, up to 3 groups of Speedlights, with any number of individual speedlights in each group. Photographers can relinquish all cords and cables or the need to ever calculate flash and distance ratios, because the i-TTL systems is capable of making all exposure calculations in real time, wirelessly, during the exposure to deliver a perfect flash exposure in any situation. Photographers can even maintain full control of each group of speedlights from a master, on-camera Speedlight, by dialing up or down flash exposure values for each group. This technology can potentially distill an entire portrait lighting system into a small set of multiple SB800 and SB600 Speedlights.

DX Nikkor Lenses
Since the launch of the D1 in 1999, all Nikon digital SLR cameras, from consumer-class to professional models, have utilized Nikon DX Format sensors of consistent size. Optimized for this size sensor, DX Nikkor lenses are designed to achieve outstanding center-to-edge-to-corner performance, and offer photographers among the widest angle lenses available today for digital photography. These lenses include:

• AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5 lens: 76º – 22º50' angle-of-view

• AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED: 79º – 28º50' angle-of-view

• AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED: 99º – 61º angle-of-view

• AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED: 180º angle-of-view

Nikon PictureProject and Capture 4.2 Software
The D2x will be bundled with Nikon's PictureProject software, an intuitive software application that provides image transfer, image organization, simple image editing (NEF plug-in included), and print layout functions. The D2x is also compatible with Nikon Capture 4.2 software (optional), that features improved functions as well as Nikon Capture Camera Control that can now be used to control the camera from a computer over a USB connection or a wireless LAN (requires WT-2A).

Major Features:

• New image sensor with 12.4 effective megapixels: The new CMOS image sensor provides both high image quality and high-speed performance. Despite the extremely high resolution achieved with 12.4 effective megapixels, image data is recorded at very high speed using a 4-channel output method.

• New image processing algorithm produces high-quality images: Improvements in the precision of the analog processing portion of A/D conversion from the image sensor are key elements that make high image-quality possible. After digital conversion, a new processing method has been added to increase image-processing precision in the ASIC for smoother display of tones from highlight to shadow portions of the image.

• Support for the reproduction of colors in the sYCC range, and support for the broader range of colors in the Adobe RGB profile: Output of JPEG data in the broader range of colors provided by the sYCC color profile found in many of the latest printers is possible so that high image quality can be maintained even with printing from a home printer.

• Continuous shooting at 5 fps at 12.4 megapixel

• High Speed Cropped Image function for high speed 8fps shooting at 6.8 megapixels: A continuous shooting rate of 8 frames per second is possible when the new High Speed Cropped Image mode is used. This records the center portion of the image sensor at 6.8 megapixel resolution. This function gives the photographer the advantage of boosting the continuous framing rate while narrowing the angle of view to 2X, thus providing even more versatility – especially when using a zoom-telephoto or telephoto Nikkor lenses.

• Faster read/write speed for the memory card and a USB 2.0 interface for faster image transfer: Read/write time of the memory card has been reduced and a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface has been adopted for faster transfer of images from the camera. These improvements mean that the user will not notice a decrease in the rate at which operations requiring writing to the memory card or image transfer are performed despite the significant increase in image resolution.

• Creative in-camera effects, Image Overlay and Multiple Exposure: The new Multiple Exposure function creates a single image from up to 10 consecutive exposures. As exposure for each image can be adjusted to prevent over-exposure, the exposure for the final resulting image will be optimized. The Image Overlay function merges selected RAW (NEF) files already stored on the CF card to create a new image file within the camera.

• Advanced 3D-Color Matrix Metering II to prevent highlight portions from being washed out and the loss of detail in shadow portions: Higher precision has been developed for Nikon's acclaimed 3D-Color Matrix Metering II with the addition of more refined exposure evaluation algorithms and a larger database for difficult-to-meter scenes provides stunning exposures every time.

• A 2.5-inch LCD monitor, large enough to display various settings and information for easy recognition: D2x also incorporates a large 2.5 inch 235,000 pixel high resolution LCD monitor display for clearer viewing and larger type fonts also improve access to color coded menus. RGB Histogram for images can be easily viewed in the large LCD monitor. It is also possible to display channel-specific ([R] red, [G] green or [B] blue) histograms for immediate and detailed image verification.

• Functions such as World Time, automatic rotation of images captured in portrait (tall) orientation: The World Time function has been added for the convenience of professional photographers who are active globally. The auto image-rotation function made popular with the D70 automatically rotates images captured in portrait (tall) orientation so that they are displayed in the same portrait orientation in the rear LCD monitor during playback which is especially useful when the D2x is set to Slide Show mode and images are displayed on a monitor or conventional TV screen. Images captured in portrait (tall) orientation are also automatically rotated for correct display in PictureProject and Nikon Capture 4.

• GPS support for the recording of location information with shooting data: Location information such as latitude, longitude and altitude can be transferred from a GPS device and recorded with the shooting data for an image. Nikon has developed the new MC-35 cable (optional) for connection to NMEA0183-compatible GPS devices.

• Excellent response with the same quick power up and 37ms release time lag as the D2H: With rapid power up and short release time lag, the same high-speed performance as that found with the D2H allows the photographer to concentrate on capturing the decisive moment.

• A body designed with emphasis on ease of operation, durability and water-resistance: The D2x body design, while similar to that of the D2H, has been optimized for easy operation with emphasis on the convenient placement of camera buttons. The durability and water-resistance of the D2x , however, doesn't end with the body. Internal mechanisms such as the shutter unit and mirror balancer have also been designed for the maximum durability required of professional cameras.

• The D2x supports i-TTL with the SB-800 and SB-600 Speedlights for Nikon's Creative Lighting System compatibility: When used in combination with the SB-800 or SB-600 Speedlights, the D2x supports Nikon's Creative Lighting System with high-precision flash photography using i-TTL Advanced Wireless Lighting control.

• In addition to DX Nikkor lenses, the D2x also supports more than 50 world class AF Nikkor lenses: In addition to our expanding line of DX Nikkor lenses designed specifically for Nikon digital SLR cameras, all of our conventional AF Nikkor lenses can also be mounted on the D2x .

• Support for the Wireless Transmitter WT-1A and the new IEEE802.11b/g compatible WT-2A for transferring image files directly from the D2x over a wireless LAN: In addition to the WT-1A, which expanded the possibilities in photography, the D2x also supports the new high-speed, IEE802.11b/g compatible Wireless Transmitter WT-2A with enhanced image transfer protocols and increased security. When used with Nikon Capture 4 (version 4.2 or later), wireless camera control from a computer is also possible.

• Creating secure interface with a memory card: D2x marks a world first by supporting a new function of secure interface between the user's CompactFlash card and digital camera. Once configured, the stored content on the card can only be accessed by designated D2x camera with the matching encryption keys or via password access on a PC, providing the highest level of security for photographers who document confidential or classified information. This new function can be available only when D2x works with Lexar's specific memory cards to be developed together with D2x .

About Nikon
Nikon ...If the picture matters, the camera matters™. 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 digital and 35mm film SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; Nikon Coolpix ® compact digital cameras; Coolscan ® digital film scanners; 35mm compact cameras; Nikonos ® underwater photographic systems; and Nikon sports and recreational optics. Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative™, t he 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 www.nikonusa.com , which links all levels of photographers to the web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

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