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| Epson PhotoPC 800 |
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Hardware Reviews December 1999 • Vol.2 Issue 12 |
Epson PhotoPC 800 | ||
 Ultimately, most users want a digital camera that offers good features and takes quality shots. That's exactly what you'll get with the PhotoPC 800 from Epson. The camera won't overwhelm you with a vast array of functions and features, but it does capture some of the best images we've seen from a model in this price range, and that speaks volumes in our estimation. Before you consider purchasing the PhotoPC 800, beware that the camera may boast of having a nearly three-megapixel resolution, but it achieves that mark by using Epson's HyPict technology. The enhancement software boosts images to a resolution of 1,984 x 1,488 pixels. For images with true resolutions, the camera includes resolutions of either 1,600 x 1,200 pixels or 640 x 480 pixels. The camera uses a 2.14-million CCD (charge-coupled device) to take shots. The shots we captured at the enhanced resolution were excellent. Focus and sharpness were outstanding, as were the lush, vibrant colors the camera rendered. We were particularly impressed with the shades of yellow, brown, purple, and green exhibited in outdoor shots, as well as images we took under fluorescent lighting, which were bright and full of accurate colors. In addition to its outstanding image quality, the PhotoPC 800 offers some features that make it even more attractive, including a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection, 1.8-inch LCD (liquid-crystal display), and threaded 38mm lens for attaching accessory lenses. The camera can take black-and-white still images and record voice messages at three-, five-, and 10-second segments. In addition, there are Auto, Program, and Manual user modes. In Program and Manual modes, users can select additional Panorama, Macro, Continuous, and Quick Shot settings. The Quick Shot mode conveniently captures one image per second at 1,600 x 1,200 pixels and two images per second at 640 x 480 pixels. Users have manual control to adjust shutter speed, aperture, focus, and white-balance settings. Less impressive is the camera's limited 2x digital zoom. In addition, there is a somewhat difficult learning curve for taking shots right out of the box. The camera does ship with Sierra Imaging Image Expert and Epson utility software, excellent documentation, an 8MB (megabyte) CompactFlash card that stores seven to 133 images, four rechargeable NiMH batteries, and a charger. Epson is known for its quality digital cameras, and the PhotoPC 800 is no exception. It's affordable price and quality images warrant a strong look. by Blaine Flamig
$550 Epson (800) 463-7766 (310) 782-0770 http://www.epson.com
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