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Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ3

By: Dave Etchells

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Page 11:Video, Power, Software

Review First Posted: 11/03/2004

Video Out

The DMC-FZ3 has a video-out port that supports both PAL and NTSC timing formats. The video output can be used for reviewing previously recorded images or running slide shows from the camera. It also carries the viewfinder display, so you could use a video monitor as a remote viewfinder if you wanted.


Power

The DMC-FZ3 is powered by an internal Panasonic CGA-S002A rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. The camera ships with one battery pack and a charger. An AC Adapter Kit is sold separately, with a power adapter, DC coupler, and power cord.

Because the DMC-FZ3 relies on its LCD display for viewing and selecting some of its settings, it can be somewhat of a drain on the power supply. Fortunately, the camera has an automatic shutdown mode to help conserve battery power, and you can save power by relying on the electronic optical viewfinder whenever possible.

Here are the power consumption numbers I measured for the FZ3, along with the projected run times for various camera operating modes:

Operating Mode
Power
(@8.4 volts on the external power terminal)
Est. Minutes
(680 mAh LiIon cell)
Capture Mode, w/LCD
250 mA
140
Capture Mode, w/EVF
271 mA
129
Half-pressed shutter w/LCD
230 mA
153
Half-pressed w/EVF
250 mA
140
Memory Write (transient)
281 mA
n/a
Flash Recharge (transient)
479 mA
n/a
Image Playback
143 mA
245

With a worst-case run time (capture mode with the rear LCD turned on) of 140 minutes and a run time of four hours in playback mode, the FZ3's battery life is better than most. I'd still advise purchasing a second battery to keep as a spare, but for many users, the FZ3's run time will be plenty.

 

Included Software

The DMC-FZ3 comes with an very nice complement of software on the included CD. Compatible with Windows and Macintosh operating systems, ArcSoft PhotoImpression, Panorama Maker, and PhotoBase applications provide a well-rounded offering of image organization and editing tools. The CD also features USB drivers for both Macintosh and Windows computers.

 

"Gallery" Photos

Readers interested in seeing a sample of more pictorial images shot with the DMC-FZ3 can visit our Panasonic DMC-FZ3 Photo Gallery.

 

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