Archive for April 19th, 2012

New camera lens: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G

Thursday, April 19th, 2012

Nikon’s newest NIKKOR lens is a fast, wide-angle 28mm f/1.8 fixed focal length in Nikon’s FX-format – for full frame DSLRs like the D800. It will be available in the US from the end of May 2012 at about US$700.

The new Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G promises sharp focus and pleasing bokeh.

The new Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G promises sharp focus and pleasing bokeh.

The new lens can also be used on DX-format cameras – such as the D3200 which was launched at the same time.

Used with DX-format cameras, the equivalent focal length will be 42mm.

New technologies used in the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G include Nano Crystal Coat and a Silent Wave Motor (SWM), enhancing image quality and rendering capabilities.

The Nano Crystal Coat prevents internal reflections that cause ghost and flare while the SWM enables extremely quiet autofocusing.

Two focus modes are offered: M/A (autofocus with manual override, MF priority) and M (manual focus).

New DSLR: Nikon D3200

Thursday, April 19th, 2012

Nikon has launched, worldwide, the 24.2-megapixel D3200. The new entry-level DSLR will be available in the US in late April (approx. US$700 with 18-55mm kit lens).

Nikon has also launched a Wireless Mobile Adapter WU-1a (approx. US$60, available in May in the US) for the D3200.

The new Nikon D3200 is available in red or black.

The new Nikon D3200 is available in red or black.

The D3200 records Full HD (1080p) video with full time autofocus (AF) and sports a high-speed continuous shooting mode at 4 frames-per second (fps).

The optional WU-1a gives the Nikon D3200 wireless connectivity to mobile devices.

WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter

The new optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter can wirelessly send images to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, to enable preview of an image (but not videos) before shooting and remote control of the camera, from up to 15 m away.

The 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor works together with Nikon’s EXPEED 3 image processing engine gives an ISO range of 100 – 6400, expandable to ISO 12,800.

As an entry-level DSLR, the D3200 is designed with user-friendly features for the beginner.

WU-1a plugged into D3200.

WU-1a plugged into D3200.

Accessible on the Mode Dial, the Guide Mode provides step-by-step photo instructions for set-up, shooting, viewing and deleting images and movies.

There are also six Scene Modes – Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-Up and Night Portrait.

For video, the camera offers manual or automatic exposure control, and a stereo microphone input to attach an optional external microphone.

The application for Android smartphones (2.3) and tablets (3.x) will be available in May 2012, with the iOS app for iPhone and iPad expected in Fall 2012.

The Guide Mode walks the beginner using the entry-level D3200.

The Guide Mode walks the beginner using the entry-level D3200.

The main differences between the Nikon D3200 and the D3100 are tabulated below.

Nikon D3200 D3100
Resolution 24.2 MP 14.2 MP
Video Full HD (1080p) 30 fps 24 fps
LCD 920 k 230 k
Max ISO (regular) ISO 6,400 ISO 3,200
Continuous shoot 4 fps 3 fps
Release date 19 Apr 2012 19 Aug 2010

The brochure can be downloaded here.

Anybody wants a 40-inch tablet computer?

Thursday, April 19th, 2012

Microsoft and Samsung has unveiled the latest in surface computing in SouthEast Asia – the Samsung SUR40 for Microsoft Surface.

Prices for Singapore are estimated to be S$15k with LCD display only, and another S$750 to include the stand.

Samsung SUR40 for Microsoft

Samsung SUR40 for Microsoft

New PixelSense Technology enables the Samsung SUR40 to “see” and respond to touch and objects, creating new possibilities for interactive displays in various settings.

Embedding the SUR40 in a table

Embedding the Samsung SUR40 in a table

With Microsoft’s PixelSense technology, LCD panels can see and respond to touch and objects without using cameras.

SUR40 will allow people to share, collaborate and explore together using a large, thin (4-inch profile) display that recognises fingers, hands and other objects placed on the screen.

The interactive 40-inch Full HD 1080p (1920×1080) LCD panel can be used horizontally as a table, mounted vertically on a wall or embedded in other fixtures and furniture.

The collaboration between Microsoft Surface 2.0 software and Samsung’s display technology is now available through the Samsung channel and reseller partners in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.

SUR40 embedded in a table

Samsung SUR40 embedded in a table

Pricing and availability of the SUR40 may vary across countries and/or regions based on country-specific duties, taxes and fees.

Key specifications of the SUR40 is listed below.

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