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Casio Digital Cameras
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Casio EXILIM EX-F1 Digital Camera Review
by Steve Morgenstern
Published on July 23, 2008
Connectivity
Software (2.00)
Casio supplies a CD with two or three programs (depending on how you count), for Windows users only. The YouTube Uploader streamlines the process of sending photos to the ubiquitous social networking site, and works seamlessly with photos taken using the YouTube Best Shot mode. The remaining software is two-part suite from ArcSoft including TotalMedia Theatre and TotalMedia Extreme. The Theatre program allows you to play back high-definition video shot with the EX-F1 and, sometimes, capture still images from that video (this apparently works on computers running Windows XP but not Vista). The TotalMedia Extreme program allows basic video editing and creation of AVCHD DVDs that will run in suitably equipped DVD and Blu-ray players. While the software is good enough for basic chores, it doesn’t fix the underlying compatibility problems we encountered. The camera produces .MOV files which we were unable to open in QuickTime (on Mac or PC) or several other video playback programs.
Jacks, ports, plugs (5.50)
On the left side of the camera, under a rubber door, are connectors for an optional external power adapter, a mini HDMI cable (not included) for viewing high-def video (with sound) on an HDTV, a proprietary connector for USB and standard-definition AV output (both cables included) and an external microphone (again, mot included). High-def video output should automatically adjust to match the specs of a connected TV through HDMI – it worked in our tests. However, it’s also possible to manually set the output resolution to 1080i, 480p or 576p (for PAL sets).
The potentially useful connection missing here is component output, which is supported by virtually every high-def display or device, even those that do not offer HDMI connectors.
The left-hand panel supports (from top to bottom)
power in, HDMI out, USB/AV and external mic.Direct Print Options (3.00)
The EX-F1 is compatible with PictBridge-equipped printers, allowing direct output without using a computer. This is a barebones implementation of PictBridge printing, allowing paper size and number of prints selection, but not more advanced features such as creating an index print of thumbnails.
DPOF, which allows you to create a predefined print order to be used when printing through your computer or from a professional print service, is also supported. You can specify the number of prints you want for each individual image and whether you want the time and date stamp included in the print, but again no advanced features are provided.
Battery (7.00)
The FX1 uses a Casio NP-100 lithium-ion rechargeable battery rated at 7.4V, 1950mAh. The manufacturer claims 520 shots, 8 hours of continuous snapshot playback or 3.5 hours of continuous movie recording per charge.
Casio claims a 520-shot life for this
lithium-ion battery.Memory (4.00)
The EX-F1 accepts SD and high-speed SDHC memory cards along with the less common MMC and MMCplus format cards.
The EX-F1 works best with high-speed
SD and SDHC memory cards.
Other features (5.50)
Image Stabilization – Casio employs two strategies to deal with camera shake. What they call Camera AS (Anti-Shake) employs sensor-shift stabilization to counter the effect of shaky hands. Camera AS is available in both still and movie modes. Image AS, which applies to still photography only, controls ISO settings in an effort to boost sensitivity, hence increase shutter speed and minimize the effect of movement. Choosing Auto deploys both techniques simultaneously. We found the anti-shake system worked well when shooting stills using the telephoto capability, but our handheld long-distance movie attempts could serve as ads for Dramamine.
Face Detection – The EX-F1 face detection software sets focus and exposure based on one or more faces it finds in the frame.
Remote Shutter Release – An unusual extra included in the bundle, the wired remote shutter release comes in handy when shooting on a tripod. The cord, at six and a half feet, offers some welcome freedom to move around while shooting. The remote shutter release plugs into the USB/AV port on the left side of the camera.
Dynamic Range Compensation - While shooting, the EX-F1 offers two levels of dynamic range compensation to minimize over- and under-exposure.
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