Stylish Optio S4 introduced

Category	:	Compact Cameras
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The Optio S4 has an elegant design and super slim dimensions, it can be comfortably slipped into a pocket or worn around the neck while complementing your outfit. And with features and functions easily selected for myriad circumstances, you’re free to enjoy yourself while the camera takes care everything else. It even offers a high-performance lens offering 3X optical zooming, the convenience of digital zoom for combined 12X zooming capacity, and the exceptional detail of 4.0 effective megapixels.

Major features
Ultra-compact, refined design
The quality of the Optio S4 is first communicated through its exterior appearance. Its clean lines and refined aluminium body exude an air of prestige and quality. Its surprisingly slim body — with dimensions of just of 83 (W) x 52 (H) x 20 (D)mm — not only feels extremely comfortable in the hand, but also serves to give the camera an air of understatement. The Optio S4 also makes use of the innovative, PENTAX-original Sliding Lens system to achieve a lens reduced in the degree to which it protrudes from the body — a factor that adds to overall portability while showcasing the Optio S4 as a camera with hidden abilities.

Ultra compact 3X optical zoom
Offering 3X optical zooming capability equivalent to a 35–105mm lens in 35mm format, this lens allows you to zoom out for expansive scenery shots and move in for telephoto shots that offer pleasing perspective. All 5 groups of 6 elements are crafted entirely from glass and two of the lenses are aspherical on each side. The lens can also be extended through combination with the camera’s 4x digital zoom for a combined zoom capability of 12x.

4.0 effective megapixels image quality
With the high-level imaging power of 4.0 effective megapixels, the Optio S4 captures everything from macro shots to distant scenery with exceptional sharpness and accuracy. Such performance is also enhanced through the incorporation of a primary colour filter which serves to bring out brighter, more natural colours; and advanced imaging technologies which bring about a general enhancement of image quality.

User-friendly operability
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Optio S4 is its heightened responsiveness that extends across all aspects of operation. Indeed it has a shutter release time lag of just 0.01 sec.* and allows the switching between viewing and shooting with a single touch of the shutter or playback button at any time. Independent buttons serve to allow frequently used shooting and playback functions to be accessed with the same ease, and modes can be switched with extreme simplicity thanks to the inclusion of the handy virtual mode dial. Finally, to speed operation in a way best suited to each user, the Optio S4 also allows the customization of functions such as enlargement and deletion.

* Time taken from the moment when the shutter release is fully depressed following focus lock to the moment the shutter opens, when the flash is switched off.

shooting modes
With eight different shooting modes selectable via the graphic Virtual mode dial, the Optio S4 makes it easy to deal with wide-ranging circumstances.

Program
Program mode allows you to take control over a combination of functions at once.
Picture
The Optio S4 offers a choice of seven convenient picture modes, including Landscape, Flower, Portrait, Self-portrait, Surf & Snow, Autumn Colour, and Sunset.
Night scene
A mode that faithfully captures evening and night scenes and is also ideal for shooting subjects with dark backgrounds.
Movie*
The Optio S4 has the ability to record up to 60 seconds of video with sound at 15 frames per second, with the definition of 320 x 240 pixels. Video files are also recorded in AVI format, making it easy to play them back on a PC. *System requirements: PCs running Windows 98/98SE, Me, 2000, and XP Home Edition/Professional which came with DirectX 8.0 and Windows Media Player installed, or have with QuickTime TM 6.0 or higher installed (included on the accompanying CD-ROM). Macintosh machines running OS8.6 or later with QuickTime 6.0 or higher installed.
Panorama assist
By following the simple guidance of the camera and using the included software*, sets of pictures taken horizontally or vertically can be aligned and combined with ease on a PC. * ACD photostitcher is compatible with Windows systems only.
3D image
3D image mode achieves results with a real sense of depth and perspective. Just follow the camera’s guidance to take two shots, then take a look at the genuine 3D effect achieved when the images are seen through the special viewer provided.
Digital filter
The Optio S4 offers a range of digital filters that can be used to add a different mood to shots. Choose black & white or sepia shooting for a marked difference in style, or choose from a range of colours (red, pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple). The Optio S4 also offers a special Slim filter that makes subjects appear more slender or broader and can be adjusted to different degrees.
User
User mode allows a combination of preferred settings to be saved for easy access whenever you need them.

Picture modes
Seven different picture modes can be selected with ease, allowing you to shoot diverse subjects while the camera takes automatic control over exposure, focus, and white balance.

Landscape mode
A mode specifically designed to make the most of the greens and blues of scenic shots.
Flower mode
Ideal for capturing the vivid colours and tiny details of flowers.
Portrait mode
A mode developed to capture natural skin tones for more flattering shots.
Self-portrait modeProvides pleasing results when you want to take a shot of yourself or join a friend in the frame.
Surf & Snow mode
A mode that helps overcome high-level light reflection problems inherent to water and snow shots to achieve pleasing exposure throughout.
Autumn Colour mode
Selection of Autumn Colour mode makes the most of reds, browns, and other colours associated with the season.
Sunset mode
A mode designed to faithfully capture the splendid tones of sunrise and sunset scenes.

Voice recording mode
With audio recording ability rivalling that of standalone audio recording devices, the Optio S4 is handy for more than just the capture of images. In fact, when equipped with a 64MB memory card, the Optio S4 has the power to record an impressive 4 hours and 22 minutes of audio!

Other features
USB mass storage class compatibility*
USB cable connectivity allows multiple recorded shots to be quickly and easily imported into a range of common PC applications.
*System requirements: PCs running Windows 98/98SE, Me, 2000, or XP Home Edition/Professional (installation of the included driver software is required). Macintosh machines running OS8.6, or later (installation of the included driver software is required, except OS9.0 or later). Compliance with the aforementioned system requirements does not guarantee USB compatibility.

Application software (exclusive USB driver, image viewer/ACDSee for PENTAX)
With the Optio S4 comes a CD-ROM featuring software including the ACDSee for PENTAX*, which can be installed on both Windows and Mac computers.
*System requirements: PCs with a Pentium CPU or higher, over 64MB of memory capacity, over 40MB of hard disk capacity, and a standard USB port. Macintosh machines with a 266MHz PowerPC or higher, over 8MB of memory capacity, over 6MB of hard disk capacity and a standard USB port.

Built-in auto flash
The Optio S4 has a built-in flash, which can be set to fire automatically when shooting in low-light conditions. For greater control, the camera also features Flash-on, Flash-off, and red-eye reduction* modes, and there’s also the option of slow shutter sync when shooting in Night Scene mode.
*This feature does not eliminate “red eyes” in all instances.

High precision LCD monitor
A high-resolution 1.6-inch LCD monitor offers an approximately 100% field of view for simple composition. It is also handy for checking recorded shots on the spot.

Optical viewfinder
Composition is additionally made easy by a viewfinder that offers actual image zoom. Use of the viewfinder also allows you to conserve power by switching off the LCD monitor.

Nine-image and Zoom display
To speed the search for recorded images, the Optio S4 is able to display nine recorded shots on the LCD screen at once. Each image can also be displayed with 4X magnification, allowing you to make close-up inspections for focus and minor details.

Convenient self-timer
The handy self-timer lets you get in the frame whenever you want, enabling the shooting of self-portraits and allowing the user to enter into group shots.

Optional remote control
Two remote control units are available as options for use with the Optio S4. Known as remote control E and remote control F, both offer remote immediate shutter release and the advantage of a three-second timer, while the former even offers the advantage of zoom control.

Continuous shooting
Continuous shots can be taken just by keeping the shutter button held down, allowing fast-occurring processes to be captured in a more expressive manner.

Time-lapse movie
The Time-lapse movie function allows a sequential set of shots to be run as a short film. This can be used for impressive effects, such as scenes of clouds rushing across the sky, for example, and offers a selection of recording speeds — X2, X5, X10, X20, X50, and X100.

Macro mode, Landscape mode
Macro mode allows the user to compose shots from as close as 18cm from the subject, while selection of super macro shooting allows you to compose from as close as just 6cm! What’s more, both modes can also be combined with 4X digital zooming. The Optio S4 is also ideal for capturing truly expansive scenes, achieving sharp focus all the way up to the horizon through selection of Infinity-landscape mode.

Manual focus
With an LCD monitor that enlarges the central part of a potential shot, manual focus can be done with a higher degree of accuracy.

Options for autofocus
The Optio S4 offers a choice of two kinds of autofocus. 7-point autofocus helps you achieve sharp focus even when subjects are off-centre within the focus frame. Spot AF, on the other hand, lets you place the centre of focus on one point out of a choice of 49 in the frame, marking that point in the LCD monitor for easier use.

White balance settings
With a variety of white balance modes, the Optio S4 is able to balance colours correctly when shooting in different types of light. It features settings for auto, daylight, shade, tungsten, and fluorescent light, and there is also a manual setting that lets you decide the selection yourself.

Histogram display
With a histogram display that accurately represents light levels during both shooting and playback, the Optio S4 enables you to make a more educated evaluation of each shot or view.

Multiple choices for metering
The Optio S4 offers a choice of multi-segment metering, centre-weighted metering, and spot metering, allowing you to achieve the most appropriate exposure in myriad situations.

Sensitivity settings
Light sensitivity is easy to adjust, with a selection of equivalent to ISO50, 100, and 200, as well as an auto setting.

Exposure compensation
With exposure compensation across a range of +2EV in of 1/3EV steps, the Optio S4 allows you to take several shots and be more creative.

Settings for sharpness, saturation, and contrast
With five grades of settings for sharpness, saturation, and contrast, the Optio S4 gives you an exceptional amount of control over each and every shot.

Image protection
With a special function that can be used for specified shots, the Optio S4 lets you make sure you never accidentally erase a wanted image.

Mode memory function
Save a combination of settings at once with the handy mode memory function. These can then be automatically returned to when the power is next switched on.

World time function
The Optio S4 can display the time for 62 different cities around the world. It can also record the time and date for each shot taken, making the sorting of shots so much easier upon your return.

Alarm function
The addition of an alarm function makes the Optio S4 even handier to have around. The camera can also be set to display the shot of your choice when the alarm sounds, showing something related to your schedule, for example, or simply displaying a friendly face.

DPOF compatibility
The user can claim a further degree of control over printouts thanks to DPOF compatibility, which lets you make use of the date function and decide the number of copies*.
*Some printers may not support the above function. Please consult the supplier of your printer for more information.

Exif Print and PRINT Image Matching II* compatibility
Exif Print (Exif 2.2) and PRINT Image Matching II compatibility allows the creation of a stronger link between the camera and printer for greater control.
*This product supports PRINT Image Matching II. When used in combination, PRINT Image Matching II enabled digital still cameras, printers, and software help photographers to produce images more faithful to their intentions.

Approximately 11MB of built-in memory
The convenience of approximately 11MB of built-in memory allows the user to record a substantial amount of images without the need for additional media.

SD memory card and MultiMediaCard compatibility
The Optio S4 is compatible with both SD memory cards and MultiMediaCards, both of which can be purchased virtually anywhere. Such media also support the simplistic transferral of data to a PC.

Resize function
A resize function allows the data size of recorded shots to be reduced. This frees up space to capture more shots without having to delete ones already taken, and resized data can be stored as new files or used to overwrite the previous images.

Trimming
The useful Trimming function allows images to be cropped and parts to be selected for storage on their own as individual files.

Voice memo function
Up to 30 seconds of sound can be attached to recorded images, allowing situations to be captured in a much more memorable manner.

Function customization
Two frequently used functions can be selected from a choice of 12. These can then be assigned to the left and right positions of the four-way controller for easier access in the future.

AV (video/audio) output terminal
Thanks to the incorporation of an AV output terminal and a provided AV cable, the Optio S4 makes it easy to display recorded shots on a TV screen.

Power sources
The Optio S4 even offers a choice of power sources, with exclusive rechargeable lithium-ion battery compatibility and an AC adapter available as an option.

Operation in 8 languages

All menus and messages of the Optio S4 can be set for display in the user’s choice of English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese, or Japanese.

Optio S4 Specifications

Type Compact-type digital still camera with built-in zoom lens, autofocus, auto exposure and auto flash
Effective Pixels 4.0 megapixels
Sensor 4.23 megapixels (total pixels) 1/2.5 inch interline transfer CCD with a primary colour filter
Colour Depth 10-bit
Recorded Pixels Still 2304x1728 pixels, 1600x1200 pixels, 1024x768 pixels, 640x480 pixels
Movie 320x240 pixels
Sensitivity Auto, fixed (equivalent to ISO 50, 100, 200)
File Formats Still JPEG (Exif 2.2), DCF, DPOF
Movie AVI (Motion JPEG format) 15 fps, with sound
Sound WAV (ADPCM), monaural
Quality Levels ???(Best), ??(Better), ?(Good)
Storage Media Built-in memory (approx. 11MB), SD memory card, MultiMediaCard(MMC)
Lens smc PENTAX power zoom 5.8mm-17.4mm (equivalent to 35mm-105mm in 35mm format) f/2.6-f/4.8, 6 elements in 5 groups (2 dual-sided aspherical elements)
Digital Zoom 1X - 4X

Focusing System
Type TTL contrast detection autofocus system
Manual focus/Infinity-landscape mode available
Focusing Areas 7-point autofocus, spot autofocus
Focusing Range Autofocus Normal: 0.4m (1.31 ft ) to infinity Macro: 0.18m (0.59 ft.) to 0.5m (1.64 ft.) Super macro: 0.06m (0.2 ft.) to 0.2m (0.65 ft.) at 10.2mm (equivalent to 61.5mm in 35mm format)
Manual Focus 0.06 m (0.2 ft.) to infinity

Exposure Control
Metering System TTL metering: Choice of Multi-segment metering, Centre-weighted metering, Spot metering
Exposure Modes Program, Picture mode, Night Scene, Movie, Panorama assist, 3D image, Digital filter, USER Picture Modes Landscape, Flower, Portrait, Self-portrait, Surf & Snow, Autumn Colour, Sunset
Digital Filter Black & White, Sepia, Red, Pink, Purple, Blue, Green, Yellow, Slim
Exposure Compensation ±2 EV (1/3 steps)
Movie Shooting time: approx. 1 sec.-60 sec. (depending upon memory card capacity)
Shutter Programmed AE electronic lens shutter with CCD electronic shutter
Shutter speed: approx. 1/2000 sec. to 4 sec.
Drive Modes One shot, Continuous, Remote control, Self-timer

Flash Built-in series-control auto flash. Automatic discharge under low lighting condition in auto modes.Flash-on and Flash-off modes. "Red-eye" reduction function employs a pre-discharge. Effective Range Approx. 0.2m - 3.5m (0.65ft - 11.5ft) (5.8mm at Sensitivity 200) Approx. 0.2m - 2m (0.65ft - 6.6ft) (17.4mm at Sensitivity 200)

White Balance Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten light, Fluorescent light, Manual setting
Optical Viewfinder Actual-image zoom viewfinder
LCD Monitor 1.6 inch, TFT colour LCD (Approx. 84,000 pixels) Field of view: Approx. 100%
LCD Function Nine-image, 1X-4X magnification, slide show, voice memo available in playback mode.
Time World Time Displays the time in 62 cities (28 time zones)
Alarm Clock Displays an image with alarm (max. three memory settings).
Interfaces AV output terminal, USB terminal, DC input terminal
Video Output Compatible with NTSC and PAL formats (monaural sound)
Power Sources Rechargeable D-LI8 lithium-ion battery (allows approximately 180 shots to be taken*) Optional AC adapter also available.
Dimensions 83(W) x 52(H) x 20(D)mm (3.3 x 2.0 x 0.8 inches) (excluding protrusions)
Weight 115g (4.1 oz.) loaded and ready 98g (3.5 oz.) without battery and SD memory card