Digital Camera Review

Digital Camera Review

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41 is one of the more economically priced Cyber-shot models, retailing for around US $179.95. Containing a surprisingly large 1/2.7 inch, 4 MP CCD, this model is armed to surpass most similarly priced models with higher image quality. However, this camera is only capable of 3x digital zoom, with absolutely no optical zoom capability. With limited custom control settings available, the Cyber-shot P41 is clearly made for the point-and-shoot consumer. The focus is predominately Auto based, with distance settings available through the on-screen menu. The camera's compact shape, rounded corners and slight weight make it easy to transport within the user's pocket. The camera includes direct print capabilities, a 1.5 inch LCD and a real image optical viewfinder. The Cyber-shot P41 can shoot in 5 still image settings, with an additional three audio/video settings capable of shooting video at up to 30 fps.
Advertisement

 

 

Connectivity
Software (5.5)
With the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41, Windows users are given the Picture Package CD-ROM, while Macintosh users can install ImageMixer VCD2. With this software the user can edit images and create image and video CDs on their personal computers, or print images using PictBridge compliant printers.

Jacks, Ports, Plugs (6.0)
This camera has one port cover, located on the back of the camera body along the base of the camera, on the right side. When the tab located on the left bottom edge is pulled up, two ports are revealed. The ports available are the DC in port and the USB port. On the right side of the camera body, the user will find the memory stick and battery cover, which is opened when a small tab located in the middle of the cover is depressed, and the entire piece slide towards the front of the camera.

Direct Print Options (6.5)
This camera is Direct Print ready, and is compatible to PictBridge compliant printers, allowing the user to print without a personal computer; just make sure that the printer and camera are compatible.

 

Memory (4.5)
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41 comes equipped with a 16MB Sony MemoryStick, which allows the user to store at least 8 and at most 243 images, although quality of image and image size will create variables within this range. The minimum is reached with the largest image size at the highest quality setting, while the maximum of 243 is attained via the lowest image quality with the VGA (Email) format. It is only possible to record movies to the 16MB memory stick in the two lowest quality settings, with the minimum time at 640 standard being 42 seconds, and at 160, 11 minutes and 12 seconds, if the card is empty prior to engagement.

 

Other Features (7.0)
Slow Shutter Noise Reduction
This feature allows for less digital noise to become apparent when slower shutter speeds are used, a common result of slow shutter settings on many digital cameras. Noise will appear as pixel distortion on the final image, and can be quite apparent when shooting at night, when such colors as deep black are easily compromised.

Real Image Processor
With the Real Image Processor, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41 allows for the camera to start up and shoot at a faster rate with supposedly shorter lag time.

 

Advertisement