Konica KD-500Z 5MP Digital Camera w/3x Optical Zoom

From a purely technical standpoint, the Konica KD-500Z is an amazing bit of engineering. That Konica was able to squeeze a 5-megapixel sensor into the KD-500Z's tiny 3.7-by-1.2-by-2.2-inch frame is quite an achievement, and the fact that its case is rugged and well-designed makes it even more impressive. The LCD screen on the back is bright and responsive, a control pad makes it easy to navigate the camera's extensive software options with the flick of your thumb, and a 3x optical zoom places this product amongst the best in its size range.

Setting up the device is a piece of cake, and a USB cable is included for downloading pictures to a PC. Considering the high available resolution that this camera is capable of, the included 16 MB Secure Digital memory card is barely adequate, although you can expand the memory size by adding a higher-capacity SD card or Memory Stick. Two slots are included, so you can use and manage both memory types simultaneously.

Despite its high resolution, the camera took below-average pictures exhibiting an overall lack of sharpness and with solid-colored areas that were marred by lots of noise. It isn't possible to change ISO settings manually to compensate, so this is definitely a snapshot camera. It is capable of taking macro shots from an extremely close distance, and in many cases we were able to get it to focus on objects that were a little over an inch from the lens.

This camera would be a dream for those who need to capture close-up details, such as for selling products at Internet auction sites and such, but everyone else save the most casual user should look elsewhere for a 5-megapixel camera that lives up to its specifications sheet. --T. Byrl Baker

Pros:

• Compact and rugged design
• Excellent for close-up work
• Simple controls

Cons:

• Relatively poor image quality considering the resolution of the sensor
• Few manual controls
• Will need a larger memory card

The Konica Revio KD-500Z is the world's smallest camera in the 5-megapixel, 3x optical zoom class (as of January 2003). Its classic dark grey stainless-steel alloy exterior provides a contemporary appearance, while its ultraslim profile enhances portability. It also features one of the fastest start-up times found in current digital cameras--1.4 seconds.

Optics and Resolution
Konica's KD-500z has a 5.23-megapixel sensor that creates pictures at a resolution of up 2,592 x 1,944 pixels, sharp enough for prints up to poster size. The 3x Hexanon optical zoom (equivalent to 39-117mm on 35mm film camera) has a 4x digital zoom enhancement for bringing objects up close.

The KD-500Z's new key custom modes, such as AE Lock and AF Lock, bring it even closer to an SLR camera in terms of spontaneity and ease of use. It also offers manual settings for exposure correction and white balance. Other added features include monochrome photo and continuous shot functions. The Macro mode allows shots as close as 6cm from the subject.

Storage and Transfer
The KD-500z has a 2 MB internal memory and includes a 16 MB Secure Digital (SD) card, but the memory slot is also designed for compatibility with Memory Sticks.

Movie Mode
A movie mode captures video clips with sound. Depending upon resolution (up to 320 by 240 pixels), these clips can last up to 30 seconds. The limited length and resolution of these clips guarantee that this feature won't replace your camcorder, but it's perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

More Features

• 1.5-inch LCD preview monitor with green LED indicator
• Multimode flash with red-eye reduction
• Night Portrait mode uses a slow shutter speed and slow sync flash to capture shots in dimly lit environments
• Includes Adobe Photoshop Elements photo editing software

Power, Size, and Contents
The camera is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included). It measures 3.7 by 2.2 by 1.2 inches and weighs 7.8 ounces. This package includes the Revio KD-500z digital camera, 16 MB SD card battery and battery charger, USB and AV cables, hand strap, Adobe Photoshop Elements imaging software, and USB drivers for Windows and Mac.