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Casio Computer is expanding its Exilim family of compact digital cameras this fall with two 2-megapixel models--the EX-S20U and the EX-M20U--and the first 4-megapixel Exilim camera, the Exilim Zoom EX-Z4U.

The new Exilim Zoom will carry a retail price of $400. The EX-S20U will be priced at $280; and the EX-M20U, at $330.

Primary Functions

The EX-S20U and EX-M20U cameras measure 3.27 by 2.08 by 0.44 inches, making them about 10 percent smaller than the previous Exilim EX-S2. They have a startup time of less than 1 second (with the flash off), a release time lag of approximately 0.01 second, and an interval between shots of about 1 second, according to Casio. The new cameras also feature high-speed playback image scrolling that operates at a speed of about 0.1 second per image.

The battery life of the new Exilim cameras has been extended by 85 percent over previous models, thanks to a new low-power design, say Casio representatives. The EX-S20U and EX-M20U sport a new lens that supports macro mode imaging and allows close-up photos to be taken from as close as 12 inches.

The Best Shot mode provides access to 15 preinstalled camera setups. The photographer chooses the sample scene that's most similar to the desired image, and the camera's exposure compensation, white balance, and other settings are configured automatically.

Other features of the EX-S20U and EX-M20U include a Photo Stand feature (which lets you view a slideshow of images with the camera on its USB cradle); a full-month calendar screen; World Time, which lets you select one of 162 cities in 32 time zones around the world as your home time; an alarm function; a triple self-timer that records three consecutive images; and a Favorites folder that stores your favorite or private images. Images are stored in a Web browser-viewable format so you can browse images in an album on your computer screen. Each camera comes with 10MB of Flash memory built in; a card slot supports use of an SD memory card or MMC.

The EX-M20U also supports MP3 file playback, voice recording, and audio snapshots. In addition, it offers selectable sounds for startup, shutter release, and other functions.

High-End Photography

The new EX-Z4U features a CCD with 4 million effective pixels, plus a 3X zoom lens. It has a startup time of approximately 1.6 seconds (with the flash off) and a 0.01-second release time lag.

A new Pan Focus mode eliminates the need for focusing, while the Multi-Auto Focus feature automatically selects one of seven different focus point positions. Casio representatives say this helps ensure that images are always focused correctly, regardless of how the subjects are arranged.

The EX-Z4U packs a 2.0-inch digital interface, TFT LCD scratch-resistant acrylic panel monitor screen, and built-in speaker for audio output. A low-power design extends battery life to allow approximately 540 snapshots to be taken.

The EX-Z4U retains all the features of the 2-megapixel EX-M20U, including the ability to play MP3 files, record voice, and take audio snapshots. It also provides some customizable sound selections.

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