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Olympus' FE-350 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Olympus: Four new FE-series digicams
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(Tuesday, January 22, 2008 - 00:01 EST)

Rounding out the company's ten pre-PMA digital camera announcements, Olympus has today unveiled four new FE-series digital cameras.

Starting out from $150 is the Olympus FE-310 with a 5x optical zoom lens, a 2.5" LCD display with 154,000 pixel resolution, and power from two AA batteries. Stepping up to $180 gets you the Olympus FE-320, which replaces the lens with an Olympus branded 3x optical zoom, and the AA batteries with an LI-42B Lithium Ion rechargeable. The FE-340 meanwhile is priced at $200 which includes a 5x zoom and a 2.7" LCD display. Finally, the Olympus FE-350 has a 3.0" LCD display and 4x optical zoom lens, for a $250 pricetag. All four cameras have eight megapixel image sensors and xD-Picture Card storage.

All four cameras will ship later this month.

Olympus FE-350
Olympus' FE-350 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeCompact
ManufacturerOlympus
Model NumberFE-350
Dimensions3.8 x 2.2 x 1.0"
97.7 x 55.7 x 26.5mm
Weight138.0 g
4.8 oz
Planned Price$249.99
Planned Availability 2008
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.5" CCD
8.00 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3264 x 2448 (8.0 megapixels)
2560 x 1920 (4.9 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
1920 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
1600 x 1200 (1.9 megapixels)
1280 x 960 (1.2 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD3.0", 234,044 pixels
Playback Zoom10.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeOlympus lens
4x optical zoom
Image StabilizationYes
Focal Length4.6 - 18.2mm (actual)
28 - 112mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/2.7 (wide) / f/5.4 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemCCD contrast detection
Focusing RangeNormal: 16" - infinity (40 cm - infinity)
Macro: 2.0" - infinity (5.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto, 80, 100, 200, 400, 640
Shutter Speed4 - 1/2000 second
Metering ModesDigital ESP AE, Face detection AE w/ face-detection AF
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto, Daylight, Overcast, Tungsten, Fluorescent 1, Fluorescent 2, Fluorescent 3
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill-In, Off
Range: Wide: 0.66 - 18.0 ft (0.2 - 5.5m); Tele: 1.2 - 8.9 ft (0.35 - 2.7m) at ISO 640
Creative
Scene ModesPortrait, Landscape, Night+Portrait, Sport, Indoor, Candle, Self-Portrait, Sunset, Fireworks, Behind Glass, Cuisine, Documents, Auction
Digital Zoom4x
Self TimerYes, 12 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatAVI Motion JPEG with audio
Storage
Recording MediumxD Picture Card, Built-in
File FormatJPEG
Connectivity
VideoYes
ComputerUSB 2.0 Full (LOW) Speed
OtherDC Input
Power
Battery TypeLithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary LI-42B
Product Bundle
Flash Memory20.5MB built-in memory
Other
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Olympus' FE-350 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Olympus FE-340
Olympus' FE-340 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
General
ManufacturerOlympus
Model NumberFE-340
Dimensions3.8 x 2.3 x 0.7"
96.9 x 57.5 x 17.8mm
Weight116.0 g
4.1 oz
Planned Price$199.99
Planned Availability 2008
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.5" CCD
8.00 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3264 x 2448 (8.0 megapixels)
2560 x 1920 (4.9 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
1920 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
1600 x 1200 (1.9 megapixels)
1280 x 960 (1.2 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.7", 230,000 pixels
Playback Zoom10.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeOlympus lens
5x optical zoom
Image StabilizationYes
Focal Length6.3 - 31.5mm (actual)
36 - 180mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/3.5 (wide) / f/5.6 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemCCD contrast detection
Focusing RangeNormal: 16" - infinity (40 cm - infinity)
Macro: 1.2" - infinity (3.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto, 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
Shutter Speed4 - 1/2000 second
Metering ModesDigital ESP AE, Face detection AE w/ face-detection AF
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto, Daylight, Overcast, Tungst en, Fluorescent 1, Fluorescent 2, Fluorescent 3
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill-In, Off
Range: Wide: 0.33 - 12.8 ft (0.1 - 3.9m); Tele: 2.0 - 7.9 ft (0.6 - 2.4m) at ISO 800
Creative
Scene ModesPortrait, Landscape, Night+Portrait, Night Scene, Sport, Indoor, Candle, Self-Portrait, Sunset, Fireworks, Behind Glass, Cuisine, Documents, Auction, Smile Shot
Digital Zoom4x
Self TimerYes, 12 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatAVI Motion JPEG with audio
Storage
Recording MediumxD Picture Card, Built-in
File FormatJPEG
Connectivity
VideoYes
ComputerUSB 2.0 High Speed
Power
Battery TypeLithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary LI-42B
Product Bundle
Flash Memory48.0MB built-in memory
Other
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Olympus' FE-340 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Olympus FE-320
General
Camera TypeCompact
ManufacturerOlympus
Model NumberFE-320
Dimensions3.6 x 2.2 x 0.7"
91.3 x 56.8 x 17.0mm
Weight95.0 g
3.3 oz
Planned Price$179.99
Planned Availability 2008
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.35" CCD
8.00 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3264 x 2448 (8.0 megapixels)
2560 x 1920 (4.9 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
1920 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
1600 x 1200 (1.9 megapixels)
1280 x 960 (1.2 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.7", 230,000 pixels
Playback Zoom10.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeOlympus lens
3x optical zoom
Image StabilizationYes
Focal Length6.3 - 18.9mm (actual)
36 - 108mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/3.2 (wide) / f/5.9 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemCCD contrast detection
Focusing RangeNormal: 16" - infinity (40 cm - infinity)
Macro: 2.0" - infinity (5.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto, 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
Shutter Speed4 - 1/2000 second
Metering ModesDigital ESP AE, Face detection AE w/ face-detection AF
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto, Daylight, Overcast, Tungsten, Fluorescent 1, Fluorescent 2, Fluorescent 3
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill-In, Off
Range: Wide: 0.33 - 14.1 ft (0.1 - 4.3m); Tele: 2.0 - 7.5 ft (0.6 - 2.3m) at ISO 800
Creative
Scene ModesPortrait, Landscape, Night+Portrait, Night Scene, Sport, Indoor, Candle, Self-Portrait, Sunset, Fireworks, Behind Glass, Cuisine, Documents, Auction, Smile Shot
Digital Zoom4x
Self TimerYes, 12 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatAVI Motion JPEG with audio
Storage
Recording MediumxD Picture Card, Built-in
File FormatJPEG
Connectivity
VideoYes
ComputerUSB 2.0 High Speed
Power
Battery TypeLithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary LI-42B
Product Bundle
Flash Memory48.0MB built-in memory
Other
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Remote ControlNo
 

Olympus FE-310
Olympus' FE-310 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeCompact
ManufacturerOlympus
Model NumberFE-310
Dimensions3.7 x 2.4 x 1.2"
93.0 x 61.7 x 30.5mm
Weight140.0 g
4.9 oz
Planned Price$149.99
Planned Availability 2008
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.5" CCD
8.00 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3264 x 2448 (8.0 megapixels)
2560 x 1920 (4.9 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
1920 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
1600 x 1200 (1.9 megapixels)
1280 x 960 (1.2 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.5", 154,000 pixels
Playback Zoom10.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeOlympus lens
5x optical zoom
Image StabilizationYes
Focal Length6.2 - 31.0mm (actual)
37 - 185mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/3.2 (wide) / f/4.8 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemCCD contrast detection
Focusing RangeNormal: 16" - infinity (40 cm - infinity)
Macro: 2.0" - infinity (5.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto, 80, 100, 200, 400, 640
Shutter Speed4 - 1/2000 second
Metering ModesDigital ESP AE, Face detection AE w/ face-detection AF
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill-In, Off
Range: Wide: 0.66 - 15.4 ft (0.2 - 4.7m); Tele: 1.6 - 10.2 ft (0.5 - 3.1m) at ISO 640
Creative
Scene ModesPortrait, Landscape, Night+Portrait, Sport, Indoor, Candle, Self-Portrait, Sunset, Fireworks, Behind Glass, Cuisine, Documents, Auction
Digital Zoom4x
Self TimerYes, 12 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatAVI Motion JPEG with audio
Storage
Recording MediumxD Picture Card, Built-in
File FormatJPEG
Connectivity
VideoYes
ComputerUSB 2.0 Full (LOW) Speed
Power
Battery Form Factor2 x AA
Product Bundle
Flash Memory20.5MB built-in memory
Other
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Olympus' FE-310 digital camera. Courtesy of Olympus, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Original Source Press Release:

EASY TO USE, EASY TO CARRY, EASY ON THE EYES: OLYMPUS COMPACT FE-SERIES MODELS ARE THE PERFECT � SHOOT-ON-THE-FLY� CAMERAS

All Four Models Redefine the Entry-Level Digital Camera with 8 Megapixels, Face Detection, Digital Image Stabilization and Perfect Shot Preview

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., January 22, 2008 – Choosing the right compact digital camera has never been easier thanks to the new Olympus pocket-size FE-Series cameras that make capturing brilliant images as simple as point and shoot. The FE-310, FE-320, FE-340 and FE-350 deliver high-tech features without being bland – these stylish, sleek and downright fun-to-use models make everyone who has them the life of the party.

Each tantalizing model offers 8.0 megapixels of resolution, Face Detection, Digital Image Stabilization, Perfect Shot Preview and three In-Camera Help Guides so you can learn on the go and capture all of life’s special moments in brilliant detail at the touch of a button. Each camera also offers its own stand-out features and promises a little something for everyone:

  • FE-310: 5x Optical Zoom at a low price provides unsurpassed value and makes this the ideal camera for the budding photographer who wants to capture the action from an inconspicuous distance;
  • FE-320: “Thin is in” with this super-slim (.65-inch) camera that slips inside a pocket or bag with barely a bulge. Its Perfect Fix feature works magic by sharpening unanticipated, blurry images, as well as improving lighting and eliminating red-eye at the touch of a button;
  • FE-340: Five metal, super-slim, hot bodies (silver, red, blue, black and pink) match any outfit for the fashion conscious. Great things come in small packages and this camera is no exception with 5x Optical Zoom, Face Detection, Smile Shot to capture a spontaneous smile, and Expression Edit to turn a frown upside down; and
  • FE-350: Its 4x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom fits more friends in the frame. Featuring an impressive 3-inch, high-resolution LCD for composing and displaying captured images, the FE-350 is a crowd pleaser.

“Great specs, sleek designs, amazing image quality and competitive pricing make the FE-Series models an outstanding value in pocket-size point-and-shoots, and they are redefining the entry-level category,” said Jennifer Schmell, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Easy-to-use as well as easy-to-carry, the FE-Series models are the ultimate shoot-on-the-fly cameras.”

Powerful Optics
Great images start with great optics. The new FE-340 and FE-310 have a 5x Optical Zoom made from precision-crafted lenses that put you 60 percent closer to the action than 3x. Additionally, the FE-350 has a 4x Wide-Angle Lens (28-112mm equivalent; f2.7-5.4), which brings subjects closer when the zoom is used, and the wide-angle capability fits more of the subject in each frame – capturing incredible scenic shots and large group portraits, even indoors!

Face Detection
Face Detection, featured in the four new FE cameras, tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures. Even if your subject is moving, the camera continuously tracks your subject's face without having to press the shutter button.

Digital Image Stabilization Mode and Edit
Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) is featured in the four new FE cameras for capturing crisp, clear pictures. DIS freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds to prevent blurry images often caused by a moving subject. The FE-320 and FE-340 also feature Digital Image Stabilization Edit, which uses a built-in gyro sensor to track camera movement and enables users to fix blurry images right in the camera.

Pre-Set Shooting Modes Featuring Smile Shot
The FE-320 and the FE-340 feature Smile Shot, which tracks your subject’s face to detect a smile and automatically fires off three consecutive shots so you never miss that perfect smile. This feature is great for parents hoping to capture babies’ hard-to-predict smiles, for example. The four new FE-Series cameras offer numerous pre-set shooting modes, such as Sports, Fireworks and Night Scene with Portrait. The cameras also offer VGA-quality video and sound, which enable users to shoot and share movies on the big screen or on the Web. The FE-310 and FE-350 offer 17 shooting modes, and the FE-320 and FE-340 offer 19 shooting modes.

Expression Edit
Now you can really turn a frown upside down! This fun feature uses Face Detection technology to edit a subject’s facial expression after the image is captured. Four different expressions can be previewed in a multi-frame window on the LCD, and users can select their favorite expression at the touch of a button.

Perfect Shot Preview
The new FE cameras offer Perfect Shot Preview mode, which enables users to preview and select various photographic effects on a live, multi-frame window on the LCD before snapping the shot. This feature allows users to see precisely what the image will look like when adjustments are made, ensuring users are capturing the exact image they want. It is a great way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, such as exposure compensation, white balance and metering.

Perfect Fix In-Camera Editing
Life does not always go according to plan. Olympus helps by providing technology, which enables users to edit images in-camera after the photos have been captured. The FE-320, FE-340 and FE-350 offer Red-Eye Fix and Lighting Fix. The FE-320 and FE-340 also offer Digital Image Stabilization Edit, which sharpens unanticipated blur.

Expanded Control and Easy Operation
In some situations, consumers may want more creative control when composing images. The four new FE cameras offer Program Auto Mode. Located on the cameras’ mode dial, this option enables consumers to easily adjust ISO and white balance. Additionally, the new FE-Series cameras feature three In-Camera Help Guides, making digital photography simple and fun for users of all ages and skill levels. A tutorial “shooting guide” educates users on tips for achieving specific effects, such as “shooting into backlight” and “brightening subjects.” The shooting guide not only provides detailed descriptions for various situations and environments, it also automatically sets the camera with the touch of a button, making the transition from learning to taking great pictures instantaneous.

TruePic™ III Image Processor
The FE-320 and FE-340 feature Olympus’ exclusive TruePic III image processor, which was developed for the demanding performance of professional Digital SLR (single lens reflex) cameras. Olympus’ enhanced TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal-clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to deliver superior picture quality with more accurate colors, true-to-life flesh tones and faster processing speeds. TruePic III also captures crisp, clear images at high ISO settings, which are traditionally associated with increasing image noise or producing grainy photos.

OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software
OLYMPUS Master 2 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 searchable by date in Calendar view. And with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or emailing. 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 Cases and Silicone Skin
Olympus also offers premium cases in various colors, including black, pink and red leather, and a sporty neoprene case perfect for active or outdoor situations. Silicone skins that protect the camera from scratches are also available for the FE-340.

Availability
The FE-310, FE-320, FE-340 and FE-350 will be available in January 2008. The FE-310 includes two AA batteries, USB Cable, Audio/Video Cable, Wrist Strap, Manual, CD-ROM with OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software and Warranty Card. The FE-320, FE-340 and FE-350 include a LI-42B Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery and Charger, USB Cable, Audio/Video Cable, Wrist Strap, Manual, CD-ROM with OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software and Warranty Card.

U.S. Pricing
FE-310 Estimated Street Price: $149.99 (U.S.)
FE-320 Estimated Street Price: $179.99 (U.S.)
FE-340 Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (U.S.)
FE-350 Estimated Street Price: $249.99 (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 as well as related Underwater Products and Accessories
  • Professional Digital SLR Imaging Systems as well as related Underwater Products and Accessories
  • Digital and Microcassette Recorders
  • 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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