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Sigma's SD14 digital SLR. Courtesy of Sigma, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Sigma: New SD14 firmware v1.05
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(Wednesday, October 3, 2007 - 00:27 EDT)

Sigma Japan has today announced a new firmware version for its SD14 digital SLR.

First announced in September 2006, the SD14 is the latest in Sigma's line of digital SLRs that feature Foveon image sensors, famous for their ability to capture full color information at every pixel location. The SD14 has a 4.69 effective megapixel resolution from 14.1 million photodiodes arranged in three layers, coupled to a Sigma SA bayonet mount. Other improvements on past SD-series DSLRs include five-point AF, a larger LCD display panel, a built-in flash strobe, new pentaprism viewfinder and shutter mechanisms, and power from a proprietary Li-Ion battery.

Firmware version 1.05 for the Sigma SD14 incorporates all updates from previous versions, plus a general improvement in camera stability, and a new feature - a new lower sensitivity ISO 50 equivalent option in the extended mode. Sigma notes:
"This firmware upgrade provides users with the ability to capture images at low-noise levels. However, unlike the SD14's ISO 100 and above settings, ISO 50 has less headroom. This means photographers need to work a bit more carefully.

To use the ISO 50 setting for the best results, Sigma advises its photographers to pay attention to the following points.
  • The ISO 50 is only available when the camera is set for Extended Mode.
  • Please meter accurately when using ISO 50. The camera's built-in metering system will produce excellent results under most conditions. In high dynamic range settings, however, we advise using the center meter and taking a reading of the brightest part of the image. You can then adjust the EV by one or two stops to account for the brightness of that object.
  • Sigma recommends using manual mode for shooting. In critical landscape settings where ISO 50 provides exceptional detail with little noise, we advise using manual (M) mode to shoot. Meter carefully and then adjust the settings after taking a test shot and reviewing the histogram.
  • For subjects with a normal range, Sigma recommends using P, A, or S. Under normal circumstances, the camera will produce exceptional results using matrix metering and the camera's normal automatic functions. If conditions require it, you may wish to adjust the EV setting to -0.3 for a little more protection of the highlights.
ISO50 can provide the exceptional result with the fine details and the lower noise. We hope all the photographers enjoy shooting the high quality images at ISO50."
The firmware update is available to download from the Sigma website immediately.

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