Connectivity
Software
The HP Photosmart M425 is intended, like all the cameras being released at CES 2006 within the R and M-series, to be able to function autonomously from PC editing software. This means that many of the features once found only within editing software programs are now finding their way into the menu interfaces of the latest HP releases. That being said, the M425 is by far the least equipped of any of the cameras released, with no Artistic Effects settings found in full on the R-series and in partial form on the M527. There is still slight manipulation of color settings like black and white, black and white tint, and sepia settings. The Add Borders menu is still there, although this feature tended to produce results that were below par.
The M425 luckily comes with HP Photosmart software, which enables the user to go beyond the limited in-camera options. In case uploading to Snapfish, printing, or sharing images to up to 34 destinations is needed, the camera is able to perform these functions without using a software program. The Photo Express button located on the back of the camera is able to immediately select, share and print images as requested by the user. This feature should greatly expedite the process of sharing images from point-and-shoot digital cameras.
Jacks, Ports, Plugs
The HP Photosmart M425 features two ports behind a port cover on the left side of the camera body. This gray rubber port cover isn’t made of the sturdiest material, and the hinge point between its top edge seems to separate easily. Underneath it users will find access to the DC in port and the USB port for the camera. On the bottom of the camera, users will find a plastic tripod mount and another port cover. This one is constructed out of the same plastic as the camera body and is both durable and lockable. When this port cover is popped open, users will be able to replace the AA batteries and insert, or remove, the SD memory card.
Direct Print Options
Printing control options are located via the Photo Express button positioned on the back of the M425. This button allows immediate access to an in-camera menu which enables the user to engage in direct printing, connection to the Internet for the sharing of images online via Snapfish, or connection to televisions, personal computers or printers via optional wireless or cabled docking devices which may be purchased separately from the camera. There is a rotation function available while images are still in-camera, a feature accessed by entering the Design Gallery menu.
Battery
The HP Photosmart M425 is powered by AA batteries positioned underneath a port cover on the bottom of the camera. These batteries add to the overall weight, especially when contrasted with lithium-ion rechargeable batteries. The use of quick-dying AA batteries will also mean that backups should be carried at all times. The camera does have a DC in port on its left side underneath a light gray rubber port cover, a place it shares with the USB port.
Memory
The M425 comes with 16 MB of internal memory, which will store a reported maximum of 8 shots. This is hardly enough space to be functional for most users. With this in mind, consumers will need to purchase an optional SD memory card. The SD memory card slot is located beneath the same port cover which protects and stores the AA batteries, on the M425’s bottom side. The port cover door appears to be well built with a sturdy hinge, and should be able to handle being opened and closed on a constant basis.
Other Features
Help Features -There are Help features all over this camera, a great advantage to the unsure point-and-shoot user who doesn’t want to carry a user manual everywhere they go. The help menus are concise, with well laid out explanations of features and settings found in just about every area of the camera. Adding to these help submenus, users will also find an extensive Help menu located when the user scrolls over from the main Capture menu.
Snapfish - This website, run by HP, allows users to upload, select, print and share images with approved members and friends, all for a nominal monthly or annual fee. This site offers the opportunity for users to upload both still and digital video clips to the Internet, all through the Photo Express menu located externally on the back of the camera.
