Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ20By: Dave EtchellsPanasonic introduces a five-megapixel digicam with the high quality optics of a 12x Leica lens. <<Image Storage & Interface :(Previous) | (Next): Test Results & Conclusion>> Page 12:Video, Power, SoftwareReview First Posted: 12/17/2004 |
Video Out
The DMC-FZ20 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 and videos 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-FZ20 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-FZ20 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 FZ20 , along with
the projected run times for various camera operating modes:
| |
(@8.4 volts on the external power terminal) |
Est. Minutes 7.2 v 680 mAh LiIon |
| Capture Mode, w/LCD | |
|
| Capture Mode, no LCD | |
|
| Half-pressed shutter w/LCD | |
|
| Half-pressed w/o LCD | |
|
| Memory Write (transient) | |
|
| Flash Recharge (transient) | |
|
| Image Playback | |
|
With a worst-case run time (capture mode with the rear LCD turned on) of 129 minutes and a run time of three and a half hours in playback mode, the Panasonic FZ20'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 FZ20's run time will be plenty.
Included Software
The DMC-FZ20 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
For those readers interested in a set of less "standardized" photos from the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ20, we've put together a "photo gallery" of more pictorial shots captured with the FZ20.
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