Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S90 First Impressions Review

Connectivity
Software – The S90 comes with Picture Package for Sony v1.6 for Windows and Pixela ImageMixer VCD2 for Macintosh. A Cyber-shot Life tutorial is also included for Windows only.

Jacks, Ports, Plugs – This camera comes with a battery charger and the batteries, but the Sony Cyber-shot Station camera dock is an optional accessory. The S90 does have A/V out and high speed USB 2.0 jacks on the camera. The A/V out jack is PAL and NTSC selectable.

Direct Print Options – The S90 is PictBridge compatible. To print photographs, users must be in the Playback mode and select the Print option from the menu.

Memory
Another fortunate alteration in this year’s Cyber-shot releases is the inclusion of internal memory. With the 32 MB of internal storage, users will be able to capture 16 pictures at the highest resolution using the Fine compression mode or capture 1 minute and 27 seconds of a movie clip at the VGA Standard setting. There is a slot for MemoryStick and MemoryStick Pro media by the batteries in the bottom of the camera. The S90 accepts cards up to 2 GB. The optional memory card will most likely become a necessity, but Sony’s inclusion of a 32 MB internal memory is certainly appreciated.

Other Features
Self-Timer – Like most self-timers on cameras, this one waits for ten seconds before letting the shutter fly.

Stamina – The main feature of this camera is its ability to take pictures for long periods of time without running the batteries dry. In fact, Sony estimates that the S90 can take about 580 shots before needing to recharge the included 2100 mAh AA batteries. This is a substantial amount of shooting without having to change batteries or stop to charge and offers a significant advantage to the mobile photographer and vacationing user.