Fuji FinePix 6900 ZoomFuji updates their uniquely-styled "electronic SLR" with a 3.3 megapixel SuperCCD chip and improved color!<<Image Storage & Interface :(Previous) | (Next): Test Results & Conclusion>> Page 11:Video, Power, SoftwareReview First Posted: 7/19/2001 |
Video
Out
US and Japanese versions of the 6900 Zoom come with an NTSC video
cable for connection to a television set. (European models come set up for the
PAL video standard.) Images can be reviewed on the television screen or recorded
to video tape. You can also use the television as an enlarged version of the
LCD display for composing and capturing images.
Power
The 6900 Zoom uses an NP-80 rechargeable (lithium-ion) battery for power,
and comes with an AC adapter that doubles as a battery charger. Fujifilm estimates
that a fully charged battery should provide approximately 100 minutes of recording
or playback time when using the LCD monitor, and approximately 120 minutes of
time when using the LCD viewfinder. Because much of the 6900 Zoom's operation
depends on the LCD display, we suggest purchasing an additional battery and
keeping it charged and on-hand at all times. Through the Setup menu, you can
activate the Auto Power Save option, which sets the camera to turn itself off
after two or five minutes of inactivity.
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(mA @5v) |
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| Capture Mode, w/LCD |
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| Capture Mode, no LCD |
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| Half-pressed shutter w/LCD |
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| Half-pressed w/o LCD |
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| Memory Write (transient) |
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| Flash Recharge (transient) |
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| Image Playback |
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Overall, power consumption is about typical of the 2- to 3-megapixel digicams we've tested. We were surprised to see the relatively small difference in power consumption between the large rear-panel LCD screen and the tiny eye-level viewfinder (EVF) LCD. There's a savings, but still a significant power drain when the EVF is used. (Another argument in favor of conventional optical viewfinders, in our humble opinion.) Based on the approximately 4.8 watt-hour capacity of the NP-80 battery, we think Fujifilm's run time numbers should be pretty accurate.
Like many cameras today using the same compact LiIon batteries, the 6900 has a 5 volt external-power connection. This means it can't be used with conventional external battery packs to achieve longer run times, because most such packs put out too high a voltage. Maha's NiMH PowerBank (shown above) can be combined with a special "step-down" cable though, which drops the pack's voltage to the level required by the camera. This makes it feasible to use an external power pack with the 6900. (Although, we have to say that the design of the connector-compartment door on the 6900 makes it rather awkward connecting the PowerBank's cable - the door has to hang open, looking like an invitation for it to get knocked loose.) One note - Maha makes both NiMH and LiIon versions of the PowerBank, make sure you get the NiMH model for the 6900. (Model number MH-DPB180M.) And, don't forget the step-down cable! Click here to order, or for more info.
Included Software
A software CD packaged with the FinePix 6900 Zoom contains the Fujifilm Software for FinePix EX Version 1.1 for Windows and Macintosh operating systems. This utility package includes a USB driver, FinePix Viewer, Exif Launcher, and VideoImpression 1.6 (Windows and Macintosh). Windows users have a slightly better deal than Mac users, as additional software is included for PCs: Adobe PhotoDeluxe HE Version 4 and Adobe ActiveShare. Mac users will unfortunately need to purchase these programs separately, or choose a more comprehensive application, such as Adobe Photoshop LE (Limited Edition).
In the Box
- FinePix 6900Z digital camera
- 16MB SmartMedia card
- Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery
- Software CD-ROM
- Video cable
- Shoulder strap
- USB cable
- User manuals
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