Sony Unveils 8-Megapixel Digicam

Sony's digital camera line hits new resolution levels with the unveiling of the 8-megapixel Cyber-shot DSC-F828, which sports a new four-color CCD, imaging processor, and a high-end Carl Zeiss lens.

The new digital camera is aimed at sophisticated hobbyists, not strictly for professionals, according to Sony. Suggested retail price will be $1200 upon its release in early November, according to Sony.

Product Specs

The new entry is a generation beyond the Cyber-shot DSC-717, a well-received 5-megapixel camera. Both have the same large lens, but the new F828 sports a black camera body and packs more power.

The unit captures RAW, TIFF, and JPEG image files. It accepts Sony Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, CompactFlash, and IBM Microdrive media cards. It has a 7X optical zoom, from 28mm to 200mm (35mm film equivalent) and a 14X digital zoom, according to the company. The mechanical zoom is a new feature for Sony digital cameras.

Users can connect the camera to PCs through a USB 2.0 connection.

Enhancements of Note

Sony says the new four-color CCD color filter covers a range of hues overlooked by three-color systems. In addition to the current red, green, and blue color scheme, Sony's new filter adds an "emerald" filter that Sony says much more closely simulates the human eye's response.

Sony is also promoting its real imaging processor, which is said to shorten the processing time of images and allow for faster shooting in continuous mode.