Connectivity
Software (5.0)
The Optio S55 comes bundled with ACDSee for Pentax, for Windows and Macintosh, as well as PhotoShow Express, a photo organizing and editing program for Windows. The ACDSee version for Mac is merely a viewing tool, which is much less capable than the Windows version. ACDSee for Pentax for Windows allows sorting, printing, and emailing, as well as editing features such as red-eye repair, sharpening, blurring, resizing, cropping, tone and color correction, and stylized effects like "Oil painting" and "Emboss." There is also a provision to combine images into panoramas.
PhotoShow Express for Windows is also included with the Optio S55, and offers a similar feature set as the bundled ACDSee. Both programs are free, less-capable versions of programs that are available at extra cost. Advertisements and enticements to buy the upgrades are integrated into ACDSee and PhotoShow, and are essentially unavoidable when the programs are in use.
Jacks, Ports, Plugs (6.0)
The Optio S55 sports a miniature USB port, which also serves as port for analog A/V. The A/V output can be adjusted for either NTSC or PAL formats. There is also a jack for an external power supply, which is sold separately.
Direct Print Options (6.0)
The Optio S55 supports PictBridge, an industry-standard protocol that lets users make prints without computers, either by connecting their camera to a printer directly via USB, or by taking the SD data card out of their camera and putting it into a slot on their printer.
It's possible to select individual pictures for printing, or to print all the images and specify how many copies to print. It's also possible to print the date on the pictures, but unfortunately, a print or share button was not applied to the camera body.
The Optio S55 does not offer a way to print only a selected area of an image, or a way to set the size of the final print. These options are part of the PictBridge standard, and some other cameras do include them.
Though the AC adapter is not included in the price of the camera, Pentax recommends using the adapter when printing. If the batteries die while the camera is connected to a printer or computer, pictures can be lost -- not just the prints, but the electronic files. Given the rate at which this camera goes through batteries, it's a significant risk.
Battery (0.5)
The Optio S55 eats batteries faster than a blue jay eats June bugs. In the course of testing the camera over two days, the S55 chewed through seven pairs of AA cells - SEVEN PAIRS! This is significantly worse than any other camera we have EVER tested. The camera takes two AAs, and it would be wise for the user to invest in NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries, for both economy and convenience. Rechargeables are cheaper in the long run, and they take more shots between recharges than alkalines take in their entire useful life.
Memory (3.5)
The Optio S55 includes 11MB of internal memory. That will hold 3 images at its highest resolution and best quality, and only 15 at "Better" quality. Additional memory by way of an SD card or two, available for anywhere from $30 to $80, depending on the capacity, would be a must for nearly any user.
Other Features
Self-Timer - The Optio S55 contains a self timer with either a 2 or 10-second delay.
Remote Control - The Optio S55 is compatible with two cordless remote controls, which are sold separately. Remote control unit E controls both the shutter release and the zoom setting, and Remote control unit F controls the shutter only. An on-camera setting offers the option of a three-second delay when using either of the compatible remote control units.
