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Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Casio launches shock, water, and freezeproof digicam
By
(Wednesday, November 18, 2009 - 06:00 EST)

The Casio EXILIM G EX-G1 is the first in a new G-series lineup, whose naming and styling both call to mind the company's iconic, ruggedized G-Shock watch series.

Offering protection not only against bumps and drops but also against water, dust and cold, the Casio EX-G1 still retains a trim body that the company claims to be the slimmest of any shock-resistant digital camera. The Casio G1 has a two-layer construction, with a fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate inner body wrapped inside a stainless steel outer casing. The G1's lens and LCD displays are damped to help prevent shock damage, and have reinforced covers to provide another layer of protection. The Casio EXILIM G1's body design also features built-in resin bumpers on the right side of the camera body and surrounding the lens, along with a choice of two detachable shock protectors for the left side.

Casio rates the EXILIM G1 as good for a drop from seven feet, alothough it doesn't claim compliance with any particular shock resistance standard. The company also lists the EX-G1 as capable of withstanding temperatures as low as 14°F / -10°C. As for the EXILIM EX-G1's water and dust proofing, the inner body is said to meet both the IEC/JIS Class 8 (IPX8) and Class 6 (IPX 6) standards. In plain English, that means the Casio EXILIM EX-G1 should be waterproof to a depth of ten feet, for as long as one hour's usage, able to sustain water jets from all angles, and dustproof.

In other areas, the EXILIM G EX-G1 is a relatively straightforward design. The G1 is is based around a 12.1 megapixel CCD image sensor, an EXILIM-branded 3x internal optical zoom lens with a rather tight 38mm wide-angle, and a 2.7-inch LCD display with fairly standard 230,400 dot resolution. The Casio EX-G1 records its still images and movies at up to 848 x 480 pixel resolution in either 35.7MB of available internal memory, or on the tiny MicroSD / MicroSDHC flash card form factor. The Casio G1 also offers both USB 2.0 High Speed and standard-definition video output connectivity. Power comes from a proprietary NP-80 Lithium Ion battery.

The Casio EXILIM G1 is available in a choice of either red or black finishes from December 2009, with pricing of about $300. For more details, read our Casio G1 preview.

Casio EXILIM G EX-G1
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeUltra Compact
ManufacturerCasio
Model NumberEX-G1
Dimensions4.1 x 2.5 x 0.8 in.
(104 x 64 x 20 mm)
Weight5.4 oz
(154 g)
Body Construction Two-layer body construction with stainless steel outer casing, buckle-locked fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate inner body, die-cast zinc wrist strap holder, multi-coated reinforced glass lens cover, damping material on lens unit, resin-mounted LCD panel with 1.5x normal thickness for acrylic cover plate, and polycarbonate resin shock-absorbers on shutter release side of body and around lens, plus two detachable shock protectors that can be attached to other end of body.
Shock Proofing Rated to Casio's internal testing as surviving 26 drops from seven feet onto lauan plywood (similar to US MIL-STD-810F standard, but not guaranteed to withstand all shocks, nor retain waterproof performance after a drop).
Water / Dust Proofing Inner body is waterproof to IEC/JIS Class 8 (IPX8), allowing continuous use at 10 foot depth for 60 minutes. Also withstands IEC/JIS Class 6 (IPX 6) test for water jets from all angles, and for dustproofing. Memory card door has rotating locking mechanism. Speaker and microphone holes are covered by waterproof filters.
Freeze Proofing Can be used in temperatures as low as 14°F / -10°C. Shutter button is designed to allow use with gloves.
Planned Price$300
Planned AvailabilityDecember 2009
Image Capture
Sensor TypeCCD
1/2.3" (approx. 0.43 in. diagonal)
12.39 megapixels (total)
12.10 megapixels (effective)
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions4000 x 3000 (12.0 megapixels)
4000 x 2656 (10.6 megapixels)
4000 x 2240 (9.0 megapixels)
3264 x 2448 (8.0 megapixels)
2560 x 1920 (4.9 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.5 in. diagonal
230,400 dots (76,800 pixels)
Lens
Lens TypeEXILIM Optical; 11 elements in 9 groups, including aspherical element
3x optical zoom
Image StabilizationNo
Focal Length6.7 - 20.0mm (actual)
38 - 114mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/3.9 - f/8.9 (wide) / f/5.4 (tele) - ???
Focusing SystemContrast detection intelligent / spot / multi tracking
Manual focus possible
Focusing RangeNormal: 4" - infinity (10 cm - infinity)
Macro: 4.1" - 20" (10 cm - 50 cm)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto, 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
Shutter Speed4 - 1/1250 second
Exposure ModesProgram
Metering ModesMulti-pattern, center weighted, spot by imaging element
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto, Daylight, Overcast, Shade, Day White FL, Daylight FL, Tungsten, Manual
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Flash Off, Flash On, Soft Flash, Red Eye Reduction
Range: Approx. 0.1 to 2.4m (W), approx. 0.5 to 1.1m (T)
Creative
Scene Modes25 Best Shot scene modes, including Dynamic Photo, Interval Snapshot, Interval Movie, Underwater, Beach, Snow, Multi-motion Image, YouTube Capture Mode, Auto Best Shot, and Voice Recording
Digital Zoom4x
Self TimerYes, 2 or 10 seconds
Time LapseYes
Movie FormatAVI Motion JPEG w/ IMA-ADPCM with audio
Storage
Recording MediumBuilt-in, MicroSD, MicroSDHC
File SystemFAT16, FAT32, complies with Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF)
File FormatJPEG (EXIF 2.2)
Connectivity
VideoStandard definition: Yes
ComputerUSB 2.0 High Speed
Power
Battery TypeLithium-ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary NP-80
Product Bundle
Battery / Charger1 x Proprietary NP-80 Lithium-ion rechargeable battery and charger
Flash Memory35.7MB built-in memory
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliantYes
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Tripod MountYes
Remote ControlNo
Notes Available in black and red body colors. Movie capture is limited to 4GB per file. Product bundle includes two detachable protectors, Rechargeable lithium ion battery, lithium ion battery charger, AC power cord, USB cable, AV cable, strap, and software CD-ROM.
More Photos
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!
Casio's EXILIM G EX-G1 digital camera. Photo provided by Casio America Inc. Click for a bigger picture!

Original Source Press Release:

Capture Life’s Elements on EXILIM Digital Cameras from Casio

Casio Releases World's Slimmest*1 Shock-resistant Digital Camera

EXILIM G – Waterproof and Dustproof, in a .78-inch,*2 Smart Design

DOVER, NJ, November 18, 2009 – Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., announced today the release of the EX-G1 shock-resistant, waterproof, dustproof digital camera—the first in the company’s new EXILIM® G brand of digital cameras. With its smart design featuring functional beauty, the EX-G1 embodies Casio’s endurance-minded features and specifications in a sleek 0.78-inch*2 low-profile camera.

Casio first introduced the shock-resistant G-SHOCK® timepiece to the world in 1983. The
G-SHOCK brand remains extremely popular among consumers and adventure enthusiasts around the globe thanks to its distinctive, unique design, rugged toughness and practicality, even under severe environmental conditions. In 2000, Casio launched the G’zOne™, a durable, water-resistant mobile phone.

Casio is positioning the EXILIM G brand in an “endurance” category, which demonstrates its determination to create digital cameras suitable for top athletes and adventurers. The endurance category caters to those who never quit challenging both extreme conditions and their own limits. The new model was developed to embody this brand concept, using Casio’s years of experience creating technologies for shock resistance, waterproofing and slim-line design.

The EX-G1 is designed with shock-resistant elements throughout the camera, both inside and out, creating a smart look in a slim-line camera with functional beauty. In addition to capturing high-resolution 12.1 effective megapixel images, the EX-G1 also features modes such as interval shooting and multi-image capture which utilize the camera’s endurance qualities. The interval shooting function can automatically take still photos or movies at fixed intervals, enabling users to capture great shots while engaged in active sports such as snowboarding or cycling*3.

“Whether it is the lifestyle that you have chosen or your career path that requires you to carry a camera tough enough to endure life’s elements, the EXILIM G EX-G1 offers an endurance level that will withstand the demands of your daily routine,” says Toshi Iguchi, senior general manager of Casio’s Digital Imaging Division. “The EX-G1, Casio’s toughest camera to date, is a prime example of Casio’s constant devotion to creating cameras to accommodate all levels of photographers.”

Through rigorous testing, the EX-G1 has been designed and created with a shock-resistant shell which passes drop tests including multiple falls from seven feet.*4 Featuring a two-layer construction with a stainless steel outer-casing, the EX-G1 inner body withstands shock and water damage. The camera’s intelligent design is constructed with a resin cover to protect the body side near the shutter and a resin lens ring to protect the lens.

The technologically-advanced design features waterproof performance and corresponds to IEC/JIS Protection Class 8 (IPX8) waterproofing. The EX-G1 can be used at depths at 10 feet for 60 continuous minutes*5. Water will not penetrate the camera even when directly sprayed with jets of water from every direction corresponding to Protection Class 6 (IPX6). Capable of withstanding temperatures as low as 14°F*6, Casio’s EX-G1 boldly captures images where any adventurer goes.

The EX-G1 will hit shelves in December 2009 with an MSRP of $299.99 and will be available in black and red.

  1. As of November 18, 2009, based on a Casio survey of shock resistant digital cameras (excluding protruding parts).

  2. Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) standards.

  3. A commercially available mount is required to support the camera.

  4. In accordance with Casio’s own standard with reference to the US MIL-STD-810F Method 516.5-Shock, the camera passed a test in which it was dropped from a height of 2.13 meters (7 feet) onto lauan plywood at 26 different angles. However, the camera is not guaranteed to withstand all shocks in terms of damage, malfunction and performance. Moreover, camera shock may result in inability to retain waterproof performance.

  5. Based on testing conditions established by Casio.

  6. Battery life will be shorter than under normal temperature conditions.


EXILIM G EX-G1
Shock-Resistant, Waterproof, Dustproof, Slim-line Digital Camera

Slim-line Design with Toughness Construction

Shock Resistance
The EXILIM G EX-G1 offers the world’s thinnest profile*1 of .78 inch (excluding protruding parts) in a shock-resistant digital camera. The camera passed multiple drop tests of seven feet based on Casio’s own standard*2.

Waterproof/Dustproof
The EX-G1 offers waterproof performance corresponding to IEC/JIS Protection Class 8 (IPX8) waterproofing, and can be used for 60 continuous minutes at a water depth of 10 feet*3. It also withstands water jets corresponding to IEC/JIS Protection Class 6 “IPX6” waterproofing, and can be directly rinsed under running water. The EX-G1 is also impervious to dust, with performance corresponding to IEC/JIS Protection Class 6 “IP6X” dustproofing.

Freezeproof
Withstanding ever the coldest of temperatures, the EX-G1 endures through temperatures as low as 14 °F*4.

Shock resistant/waterproof construction and design

Exterior
The outer body of the EX-G1 is made from stainless steel to withstand external shocks while a polycarbonate cover absorbs shocks to the body side near the shutter. The camera’s wrist-strap holder is made of die-cast zinc to withstand drops while a rotating lock secures the external memory slot cover. For additional protection, the EX-G1 comes with two types of detachable protectors to absorb shocks.

Internal construction
The waterproof inner body of the camera is made from polycarbonate reinforced with fiberglass while a buckle-lock construction is added to absorb impact, using fewer screws to secure the inner body. Additionally, the camera’s frame comes equipped with speaker and microphone filters to prevent water from penetrating the camera.

Lens
To prevent damage to the camera’s lens, a resin ring as been added around the glass casing to ease shocks to the lens area. With the addition of a reinforced, glass lens cover, the EX-G1 is tooled with a multi coating that is water-repellent and prevents light reflection from ruining pictures. To further protect the camera from impact, high-performance damping material has been added to protect the lens unit from external shocks.

LCD panel
The acrylic plate to protect the LCD from water pressure and shocks is 1.5 times thicker than conventional point-and-shoot cameras. The LCD panel features a resin mount to ease shocks to the LCD panel area.

BEST SHOT® functions befitting a waterproof, shock-resistant camera

Interval shooting
The interval shooting function allows users to automatically take still photos or movies at fixed intervals while engaged in action sports such as cycling, snowboarding, and wind surfing*5. With the EX-G1, users can take powerful photos from inside the action, the kind which are usually almost impossible to capture. The shooting interval can be set at 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, or 3 minutes, and the capture time for movies may be set at 3, 10, 20, or 30 minutes.

Great for a variety of outdoor photography scenes
The BEST SHOT function enables users to take beautiful photos just by selecting the desired subject scene. The EX-G1 includes additional BEST SHOT settings suitable for various outdoor situations, such as “snow” and “beach” scene settings, which automatically adjust to prevent subject underexposure due to the brightness of snow or sun. There is also an “underwater” setting to control the tendency of underwater photos to come out looking too blue.

12.1 effective megapixels
This thin stylish model features a large 2.5-inch monitor with 230,400 dots of high resolution and a non-extending 3X zoom lens ranging from 38-114mm (35 mm film camera equivalent).

Intelligent AF
When the camera is pointed at a desired shot, the Intelligent AF function automatically detects the photo subject even if it is not a human face and determines the focus and exposure area accordingly.

Advanced Dynamic Photo function
Casio’s original Dynamic Photo function, which creates composite moving images using the camera’s own high-speed image processing technology, now does even more. When a moving subject is cut out of a number of images and combined with a different still shot that forms the background, the size of the subject can be changed to suit the background image. Additionally, the Dynamic Photo video can easily be converted in-camera into a motion JPEG movie file. Moving graphics such as hearts and bouquets of flowers are included so that users can have fun decorating their still images using the Dynamic Photo function. Casio not only allows users to have fun taking and viewing photos, but also provides innovative new ways for them to create original images, right on the camera.

Wide Screen Movies
The camera also features a wide format (16:9) Movie function. Just press the dedicated Movie button to take beautiful movies at 848x480 pixels.

  1. As of November 18, 2009, based on a Casio survey;

  2. Established with reference to the US standard, MIL-STD-810F Method 516.5-Shock;

  3. Based on test conditions set by Casio;

  4. Battery life will be shorter than under normal temperature conditions;

  5. A commercially available mount is required to support the camera.

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