Connectivity
Software
The Nikon Coolpix S5/S6 ships with Nikon’s PictureProject software that assists in transferring images from camera to computer, organizes photos and offers different designs. The software also offers several slide shows with sound for display on a TV or computer and can create movie presentations with music. For the S6, PictureProject assists with the camera’s WiFi capability.
Jacks, Ports, Plugs
The only port on the S5/S6 is its charger port, which also hooks it into the Nikon COOLSTATION Dock. The COOLSTATION MV-14 for the S5 includes USB and Audio Video connectivity for transferring images to a computer. Via the COOLSTATION MV-15, the S6 connects by USB and by IEEE 802.11b/g using the camera’s WiFi feature. The dock also has Audio Video output.
While both these docks come with the cameras, it’s a little annoying to have classy, small cameras that require you to lug around a big plastic dock if you want to connect to your computer or printer. Thankfully, the COOLSTATION dock is at least smaller and more lightweight than most.
Direct Print Options
When using the COOLSTATION dock, S5/S6 users can directly print their images on any PictBridge-enabled printer. The S6 can also zap images wirelessly to Pict Bridge Printers but they need to purchase a separate device – the Nikon Wireless Print Adaptor (PD-10) for $49.95 – to do it, which is annoying and an added cost.
Battery
Using a Li-ion Battery EN-EL8, users can take about 210 shots on the S5 and 200 shots on the S6, according to CIPA.
Memory
The S5/S6 includes 23 MB of internal memory which won’t get you very far in terms of pictures, but it’s a nice fallback when you don’t have a memory card on hand.
Other Features
WiFi – Like the P3 in the current lineup, the S6 has WiFi capabilities up to 30 meters on 802.11b/g. The WiFi feature and the larger screen come at an extra $100 cost to the S6 buyer.
