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Olympus' FE-250 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Olympus: Four new FE-series digital cameras
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(Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 00:00 EST)

Rounding out the company's announcements for the day, Olympus has today revealed four new digital camera models for its FE-series that have approachable, beginner-friendly features.

The Olympus FE-210, FE-230, FE-240 and FE-250 digicams are all slated to ship from this February, priced at between $150 and $300 depending on the model. The Olympus FE-210 marks the entry-point, combining a seven megapixel CCD imager, 3x optical zoom lens, and a 2.5" LCD display in a compact body with power from two AA batteries. The FE-230 ($200) reduces camera size and weight significantly, increases the maximum ISO sensitivity to 1250 (vs. ISO 640 in the FE-210), adds audio to the movie mode and doubles the framerate to 30fps, as well as switching to a proprietary Lithium Ion rechargeable battery and offering an optional underwater housing. The FE-240 ($250) is somewhere in between the size of the previous two cameras, and manages to fit in an impressive 5x optical zoom lens and much of the rest of the feature-set found on the FE-230. Finally, the FE-250 bumps sensor resolution up to eight megapixels coupled to a 3x optical zoom lens, with ISO sensitivity ranging up to ISO 3200 (with the ability to bump this to ISO 10,000 equivalent at reduced resolution).

Full specs and product photos follow below.

Olympus FE-210
Olympus' FE-210 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeCompact
ManufacturerOlympus
Model NumberFE-210
Dimensions3.5 x 2.5 x 1.2"
90.0 x 62.5 x 30.5mm
Weight122.0 g
4.3 oz
Planned Price$149.99
Planned Availability 2007
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.5" CCD
7.40 megapixels (total)
7.10 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3072 x 2304 (7.1 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
1980 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.5", 154,000 pixels
Playback Zoom10.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeOlympus lens
3x optical zoom
Image StabilizationNo
Focal Length6.3 - 18.9mm (actual)
38 - 114mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/3.1 (wide) / f/5.9 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemiESP / single CCD contrast detection
Focusing RangeNormal: 24" - infinity (60 cm - infinity)
Macro: 2.0" - infinity (5.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto (64 - 640)
Shutter Speed4 - 1/2000 second
Exposure ModesProgram
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill-In, Off
Range: Wide: 0.33 - 12.8ft (0.1 - 3.9m), Tele: 2.0ft - 6.9ft (0.6 - 2.1m)
Creative
Scene ModesPortrait, Landscape, Night & Portrait, Indoor, Candle, Self-Portrait, Sunset, Sport, Fireworks, Cuisine, Documents, Behind Glass, Auction
Digital Zoom4x seamless
Self TimerYes, 12 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatAVI (Motion JPEG) without audio
640x480 and 320x240
Max. frame-rate: 15 frames per second
Storage
Recording MediumxD Picture Card, Built-in
File FormatJPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
VideoYes
ComputerUSB 2.0 Full (LOW) Speed
OtherDC Input
Power
Battery TypeAlkaline or Lithium disposable, NiMH rechargeable
Battery Form Factor2 x AA
Product Bundle
SoftwareOlympus Master
Battery / Charger2 x AA disposable battery
Flash Memory7.0MB built-in memory
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliantYes
PictBridge CompliantYes
Internal MicrophoneNo
Tripod MountYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Olympus' FE-210 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-210 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-210 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-210 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Olympus FE-230
Olympus' FE-230 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeUltra Compact
ManufacturerOlympus
Model NumberFE-230
Dimensions3.6 x 2.2 x 0.8"
90.5 x 55.0 x 19.1mm
Weight105.0 g
3.7 oz
Planned Price$199.99
Planned Availability 2007
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.5" CCD
7.40 megapixels (total)
7.10 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3072 x 2304 (7.1 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
1980 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.5", 115,000 pixels
Playback Zoom10.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeOlympus lens
3x optical zoom
Image StabilizationNo
Focal Length6.3 - 18.9mm (actual)
38 - 114mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/3.1 (wide) / f/5.9 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemiESP / single CCD contrast detection
Focusing RangeNormal: 24" - infinity (60 cm - infinity)
Macro: 2.0" - infinity (5.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto (50 - 1250)
Shutter Speed4 - 1/2000 second
Exposure ModesProgram
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill-In, Off
Range: Wide: 0.33 - 12.8ft (0.1 - 3.9m), Tele: 2.0ft - 6.6ft (0.6 - 2.0m)
Creative
Scene ModesPortrait, Landscape, Night & Portrait, Indoor, Candle, Self-Portrait, Sunset, Sport, Fireworks, Cuisine, Documents, Behind Glass, Auction, Underwater Wide 1, Underwater Wide 2, Underwater Macro
Digital Zoom4x seamless
Self TimerYes, 12 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatAVI (Motion JPEG) with audio
640x480 and 320x240
Max. frame-rate: 30 frames per second
Storage
Recording MediumxD Picture Card, Built-in
File FormatJPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
VideoYes
ComputerUSB 2.0 Full (LOW) Speed
OtherDC Input
Power
Battery TypeLithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary LI-42B
Product Bundle
SoftwareOlympus Master
Battery / Charger1 x LI-42B Lithium Ion rechargeable battery and charger
Flash Memory20.0MB built-in memory
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliantYes
PictBridge CompliantYes
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Tripod MountYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Olympus' FE-230 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-230 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-230 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-230 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Olympus FE-240
Olympus' FE-240 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeUltra Compact
ManufacturerOlympus
Model NumberFE-240
Dimensions3.7 x 2.2 x 0.9"
93.5 x 56.0 x 23.4mm
Weight115.0 g
4.0 oz
Planned Price$249.99
Planned Availability 2007
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.5" CCD
7.40 megapixels (total)
7.10 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3072 x 2304 (7.1 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
1980 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.5", 115,000 pixels
Playback Zoom10.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeOlympus lens
5x optical zoom
Image StabilizationNo
Focal Length6.4 - 32.0mm (actual)
38 - 190mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/3.3 (wide) / f/5.0 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemiESP / single CCD contrast detection
Focusing RangeNormal: 29" - infinity (70 cm - infinity)
Macro: 1.2" - infinity (3.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto (50 - 1000)
Shutter Speed4 - 1/2000 second
Exposure ModesProgram
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill-In, Off
Range: Wide: 0.33 - 11.8ft (0.1 - 3.6m), Tele: 2.0ft - 7.9ft (0.6 - 2.4m)
Creative
Scene ModesPortrait, Landscape, Night & Portrait, Indoor, Candle, Self-Portrait, Sunset, Sport, Fireworks, Cuisine, Documents, Behind Glass, Auction
Digital Zoom4x seamless
Self TimerYes, 12 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatAVI (Motion JPEG) with audio
640x480 and 320x240
Max. frame-rate: 30 frames per second
Storage
Recording MediumxD Picture Card, Built-in
File FormatJPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
VideoYes
ComputerUSB 2.0 Full (LOW) Speed
OtherDC Input
Power
Battery TypeLithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary LI-42B
Product Bundle
SoftwareOlympus Master
Battery / Charger1 x LI-42B Lithium Ion rechargeable battery and charger
Flash Memory20.0MB built-in memory
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliantYes
PictBridge CompliantYes
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Tripod MountYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Olympus' FE-240 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-240 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-240 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-240 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Olympus FE-250
Olympus' FE-250 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeCompact
ManufacturerOlympus
Model NumberFE-250
Dimensions3.7 x 2.2 x 0.9"
94.0 x 56.5 x 22.3mm
Weight115.0 g
4.0 oz
Planned Price$299.99
Planned Availability 2007
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/1.8" CCD
8.30 megapixels (total)
8.00 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3264 x 2448 (8.0 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
1980 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.5", 230,000 pixels
Playback Zoom10.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeOlympus lens
3x optical zoom
Image StabilizationNo
Focal Length7.4 - 22.2mm (actual)
35 - 105mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/2.8 (wide) / f/4.7 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemiESP / single CCD contrast detection
Focusing RangeNormal: 12" - infinity (30 cm - infinity)
Macro: 4.1" - infinity (10.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto (64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400*, 10000*); *SQ mode only
Shutter Speed4 - 1/1000 second
Exposure ModesProgram
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Se nsor - Auto
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill-In, Off
Range: Wide: 0.98 - 14.1ft (0.3 - 4.3m), Tele: 1.6ft - 8.5ft (0.5 - 2.6m)
Creative
Scene ModesPortrait, Landscape, Night & Portrait, Indoor, Candle, Self-Portrait, Sunset, Sport, Fireworks, Cuisine, Documents, Pet, Auction
Digital Zoom4x seamless
Self TimerYes, 12 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatAVI (Motion JPEG) with audio
640x480 and 320x240
Max. frame-rate: 30 frames per second
Storage
Recording MediumxD Picture Card, Built-in
File FormatJPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
VideoYes
ComputerUSB 2.0 Full (LOW) Speed
OtherDC Input
Power
Battery TypeLithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary LI-42B
Product Bundle
SoftwareOlympus Master
Battery / Charger1 x LI-42B Lithium Ion rechargeable battery and charger
Flash Memory20.0MB built-in memory
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliantYes
PictBridge CompliantYes
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Tripod MountYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Olympus' FE-250 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-250 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-250 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Olympus' FE-250 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Original Source Press Release:

NEW OLYMPUS FE-SERIES CAMERAS PROVIDE EFFORTLESS DIGITAL PICTURE TAKING

Four New Extremely Easy-to-use Cameras Offer Built-in Help Guides, Large 2.5-Inch LCDs and Digital Image Stabilization

CENTER VALLEY, Pa, January 25, 2007 – Olympus today unveils four new FE-series point-and-shoot digital cameras that combine slim design and easy operation to deliver impressive image quality without a steep learning curve – perfect for first-time camera owners. The FE-210, FE-230, FE-240 and FE-250 all feature a 2.5-inch LCD, Built-in Help Guides, Pre-set Shooting Modes and Digital Image Stabilization. Bright Capture is also available for the first time in select FE-series cameras.

Each camera offers its own unique features including:

  • FE-210: Built-in Help Guides, including a Shooting Guide, lets users choose the desired effect and the camera adjusts to those settings automatically.
  • FE-230: The 0.6-inch super-slim design and durable metal body make this the most compact and portable member of the FE family. An optional underwater housing (PT-038) designed specifically for the FE-230 provides worry-free fun in the pool or ocean. Images can be captured when scuba diving down to a depth of approximately 130 feet (40 meters) below the surface.
  • FE-240: A powerful 5x optical zoom in a super-slim body captures action at a distance without taking a step. This slim .79-inch camera features an all-metal body and is available in black as well as silver.
  • FE-250: An 8.0-megapixel image sensor, super-high sensitivity (ISO 3200), and fast shutter speeds in a slim 0.8-inch body guarantee users bright, high-quality images even in low-light situations.

“The Olympus FE-series cameras offer the ultimate value by combining great features and ease-of-use functionality in an ultra-slim design,” said Naoki Tai, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “First-time digital camera users will enjoy using learn-as-you-go Help Guides and Digital Image Stabilization to capture superior images.”

Easy Operation
The new FE-series cameras feature an enhanced Help Guide that makes digital photography simple and fun for users of all ages and any skill level. A tutorial “shooting guide” educates users on tips for achieving specific effects, such as “shooting into backlight” and “adjusting coloration.” The shooting guide not only provides detailed descriptions for various situations and environments, but also sets the camera with the touch of a button, making the transition from learning to taking great pictures instantaneous.

The FE-series cameras also feature a “One Touch” design with individual buttons for shooting, reviewing and deleting images. Buttons are conveniently located on the top of the cameras with icons for easy access to frequently used functions – shooting, playback, zoom and delete options right at your fingertips. Macro mode, flash mode and a self-timer are located on an arrow pad for quick use for composing images.

Digital Image Stabilization Mode and Edit
The new FE cameras offer Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) for capturing crisp, clear pictures. DIS freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds that prevent blurry images often caused by a moving subject. The FE-230 and FE-240 also feature Digital Image Stabilization Edit, which uses a built-in gyro sensor to track camera movement so you can fix blurry images right in the camera.

The FE-250 features a super-high ISO sensitivity (up to 3200), which extends the flash working range, enabling users to capture clear and bright subjects and backgrounds in low-light situations. Sharp images of fast moving subjects can also be captured in low-light settings.

Bright Capture Technology for Easy Low-Light Photography
FE-230, FE-240 and FE-250 include Bright Capture Technology, enabling users to preview and shoot images and movies in low-light environments using specific scene modes. It’s perfect for situations when flash is not appropriate to capture the softness and warmth of a candlelit dinner or natural skin tones in subdued lighting.

Large 2.5-Inch LCD
The large 2.5-inch LCD screens make it easier to see clear images when composing shots as well as when gathering friends and family around to view the results, all without having to lug a laptop around to present your portable photo album.

My Favorites Mode
The My Favorites Mode allows users to select favorite photos to show family and friends anywhere, anytime. Users can select nine photos and save them using a minimal amount of the camera’s internal memory.

Pre-Set Shooting Modes Make It Easy to Capture Great Images
The inclusion of pre-set shooting modes, accessed via a rotating dial and menu button on the back of the cameras, makes it easy to capture great images in a variety of lighting situations, such as Sports, Fireworks, and Night Scene with Portrait. The FE-210 offers QuickTime® Movie mode and internal microphones, which enables users to create short movies that can be emailed to family and friends. The FE-230, FE-240 and FE-250 capture movies at a higher resolution, providing television quality movies. The FE-210, FE-240 and FE-250 offer 16 different shooting modes, while the FE-230 features 19 shooting modes including three underwater scene modes.

TruePic TURBO™ for High-Speed Response
Olympus’ exclusive TruePic TURBO™ Image Processor enhances image quality for brilliant blue skies and accurate flesh tones and delivers faster overall processing speeds for rapid start-up, shutter release and playback. TruePic TURBOTM enables the FE-230, FE-240 and FE-250 to capture information from the CCD with pixel “micro-smoothing” that delivers clearer and more color-accurate photos.

OLYMPUS Master™ Software
OLYMPUS Master™ software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are easily organized by folders or albums. And with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or e-mailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away. Use the optional muvee? Theater Pack to create professional quality slide shows and DVDs from your pictures using any of several built-in templates.

Olympus Premium and Sporty Carrying Cases
Olympus offers premium cases in six colors, including chocolate suede and red leather. A sporty neoprene case is also available for the entire FE-series of cameras and is perfect for active or outdoor situations.

Underwater Housing
When using the underwater housing (PT-038), the FE-230 is perfect for the pool, snorkeling or scuba diving. The PT-038 enables scuba divers to capture photos to depths of approximately 130 feet (40 meters) beneath the surface.

Availability
The FE-210, FE-230, FE-240 and FE-250 will be available in February 2007.

The FE-210 includes: two AA Batteries, USB Cable, Video Cable, Wrist Strap, Quick Start Guide, Basic Manual, CD-ROM (includes OLYMPUS Master Software and Advanced Manual) and Warranty Card.

The FE-230, FE-240 and FE-250 include: LI-42B Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery and Charger, USB Cable, Audio/Video Cable, Wrist Strap, Quick Start Guide, Basic Manual, CD-ROM (including OLYMPUS Master Software and Advanced Manual) and Warranty Card.

U.S. Pricing
FE-210 Estimated Street Price: $149.99 (U.S.)
FE-230 Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (U.S.)
FE-240 Estimated Street Price: $249.99 (U.S.)
FE-250 Estimated Street Price: $299.99 (U.S.)

ABOUT OLYMPUS IMAGING AMERICA INC.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets.

Olympus Imaging America Inc. works collaboratively with its customers and its ultimate parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhances peoples’ lives every day. These include:

  • Digital and Film Cameras
  • Professional SLR Imaging Systems
  • Digital and Microcassette Recorders
  • Personal Photo Printers
  • Digital Media
  • Binoculars

Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. For more information, visit: www.olympusamerica.com.

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