Panasonic to introduce new models in Lumix Digital Camera series in the Middle East at GITEX Dubai 2004

GITEX Dubai 2004, the largest IT exhibition in the Middle East region, will be held at Dubai International Exhibition Centre (DIEC) from October 3 to 7, 2004.

The new models in the compact LUMIX camera line-up include the fashionable 5.0-megapixel DMC-FX7 and 4.0-megapixel DMC-FX2. The new models boast improved performance over the previous range, not only through compactness and total number of pixels, but also with a long list of technical improvements as in the image processing LSI and in the accuracy of Panasonic�fs patented O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) technology that helps prevent shaky pictures.

Commented Koji Naka, Manager, Consumer Products, Panasonic Marketing Middle East FZE, �gThe new products incorporate our own cutting-edge digital imaging technologies such as the improved MEGA O.I.S. and Venus Engine II as well as the advanced optical technology of Leica Camera AG. We are excited about the introduction of such superb quality throughout the LUMIX range, from our compact fashionable, easy-to-use and stylish models to our higher-end models. By responding to a wide range of consumer needs, we believe we can contribute to sustaining or even expanding the demand for digital still cameras.�h
Panasonic has developed the MEGA O.I.S technology that avoids blurred images that may occur due to unintentional movement of the hand while taking pictures. The unintentional hand-shake which occurs more frequently as the camera reduces in size can be controlled by the MEGA O.I.S. The lens can move in all directions to maximize its effect, and higher-resolution images can be taken by capturing the image close to the center of the lens. The Venus Engine II also encourages this advantageous performance by enhancing the accuracy of hand-shake detection. Consequently, even without using a tripod, it allows you to reduce the shutter speed 3 or 4 steps compared to conventional cameras without O.I.S., while assuring clear images.

Panasonic is the first consumer electronics company to feature world-renowned Leica DC lenses in its digital still cameras and camcorders. The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens promises high resolution and low aberration images making the cameras ideal even for professional use.

The new models�f improved functionality includes large LCD monitors which help both shooting and reviewing images. The DMC-FX7 has a 2.5�h large LCD monitor, while the DMC-FX2 has a 2.0�h LCD monitor. Moreover, the 3 aspherical Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lenses and the full re-examination on the design have accomplished the downsizing of the units, making them slimmer and more compact than before.

The most remarkable advancement in these models is the complete improvement of the image processing LSI, the brain of a digital camera, which handles image processing. In previous models�f Venus Engine, the luminance signal is extracted from all RGB (red green blue) pixels to improve the diagonal resolution by 50 percent. In addition to that, the newly developed Venus Engine II gains new imaging process which adds the luminance signal extracted only from the G pixels upon detecting the horizontal / vertical lines in the image. This result in the improvement of the horizontal and vertical resolution by more than 10 percent compared to the former Venus Engine, while maintaining the 50 percent in the diagonal resolution.

Also launched in the high power zoom line-up for photography enthusiasts are the DMC-FZ3 and DMC-FZ20. The DMC-FZ3 features 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 420 mm on a 35 mm film camera) with F2.8 brightness throughout the entire zoom range. The camera captures every detail of distant subjects with superb clarity. Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens, a top-class compact lens from the world-renowned Leica family, enables the LUMIX digital cameras to render the same warmth and subtlety as film cameras. The 3.1-megapixel DMX-FZ3 weighs only 290g, 10 percent smaller in size than its preceding model.

Panasonic has also upgraded its model for the serious photographer. The 5.0-megapixel LUMIX DMC-FZ20 features 12x optical zoom with F2.8 brightness and manual controls including ring-operated focus and exposure. The manual exposure capability gives total control of exposure to capture images according to the user�fs preference such as intentional over or under-exposure just like using a film camera.

Finally in the standard basic model, Panasonic has introduced a new member to the LUMIX series with the 5-Megapixel DMC-LC80 digital still camera. Equipped with a LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens, the new DMC-LC80 provides beautiful images in superior quality in addition to its stylish design and compact body. The DMC-LC80 has been designed for minimum power consumption, thus the battery life is extended, which allows the shooting of even 320 pictures with supplied batteries or 160 pictures with optional AA[LR6] alkaline batteries.�@

The entire Lumix range is available through Panasonic�fs UAE distributor, Al Futtaim Panatech, part of the Al Futtaim Group.