Features

• Ultra fast up to 9 Mb/sec data transfer rate
• small size
• Holds up to 200 high rez images
• Works with any compact flash enabled device
• High-density flash memory and optimized controller technology lets you save large image files faster

Reviews (6)

Easily the best I've found
I recently bought a Canon Digital Rebel. When considering memory I initially figured I'd stick with the brand I used with my PowerShot S30: Viking Components. But I wanted the best, knowing that my 6.3MP photos would take longer to be recorded.

I looked at the Lexar 40x first. Lexar has a good reputation and "40x" sounds like a snappy number. For some reason, though, I liked the feedback about this [Sandisk Ultra] card more. So I bought this one and am very glad I did.

Little publicized is the fact that the Sandisk Ultra II blazes along at 60x (9 Mb/s) write speed. That translates to being able to record one more whole image per second than the Lexar, and two or three images more than SimpleTech or Viking Components. (Each card reads at the same speed, I believe -- 10 Mb/s.)

Worried about a trade-off in reliability? It's backed with a 5-year warranty. You can't go wrong with that, folks.

Great memory choice for the Sony DSP F828 camera
I recently purchased a Sony DSP F828 camera, which uses 8MP per shot, so needed LOTS of memory for it. I also wanted that memory to be as fast as possible, so as not to slow down picture-taking. The SanDisk Ultra II 1 GB CompaceFlash card was my choice (faster and cheaper than the Lexar alternatives I found), and has turned out to be a very happy one.

The only caution for those buying memory for use with the Sony DSP F828 is that its 640 x 480 movie mode is limited to 15 FPS with this memory card, whereas it can do 30 FPS with a MemoryStickPro or a Hitachi CompactFlash hard disk (the other two kinds of memory usable in this camera.) Personally, I don't see this as much of a problem, because if that matters to you, you'll need a lot more than 1 GB of memory. 5 minutes of 640 x 480 at 15 FPS used over 100 MB of memory, suggesting 30 FPS would use up 1 GB in under 25 minutes.

What a WONDERFUL product!
I received this wonderful product as a gift during the holidays. I absolutely LOVE it. If you own a digital camera, this _IS_ the card to use. Lots of room, and fast. I was shocked.
I used this card in a 5 MegaPixel camera, a 3.2 MegaPixel, and a 2.1 MegaPixel. The same results between all three cameras - fast, fast, FAST!
If you need to transfer a ton of files between two computers using a card reader, you'll be glad you've got this card.

SanDisk Ultra II One Gigabyte CF Card
What an AWESOME card.
You can beat it.. fast, furious, and roomy.
I use it in a Canon PowerShot S30 - 611 pictures @ full resolution, and best quality.
If you wanna use it for transferable storage, its nice - holds the equivalent of one and a half CD-ROMs.
You won't be disappointed with this card!

Fantastic addition for digital photography
I just purchased this to compliment my canon D10. This is a great little flash card. It is very fast and holds hundreds of photos. I use it on a large format (6.3) and can get over 700 photos. I got mine from newegg.com and was very satisfied with the service and price. I have not taken any raw images yet so I can not comment on how many it holds. ... Read more

Features

• Fast transfer rate for reliable copy/download/backup
• Non-volatile solid-state; no moving parts maximizes battery power
• Low battery consumption to maximize battery life in small portable devices
• User selectable mechanical write protect switch on the exterior card casing
• Operating shock rating of 2,000Gs, equivalent to a 10-foot drop to the floor

Reviews (1)

Finally it's here!
Sandisk has started production of the 1GB SD card and they will be shipped to distributors by late Jan. 2004, according to PC World web edition. This comes almost a year after the initial product announcement, and will be welcome news for digital photographers who take lots of 5+ megapixel TIFF pictures. I'll order one when Amazon offers it and post a review later. ... Read more

Features

• 512 MB capacity
• User selectable mechanical write protect switch on the exterior card casing
• Works with all SD enabled devices
• Low battery consumption to maximize battery life in small portable devices
• Operating shock rating of 2,000Gs, equivalent to a 10-foot drop to the floor

Reviews (18)

Very Fast, Highly Compatible Memory Card
I purchased the SanDisk 512MB Secure Digital Card for use in my MP3 player (Rio Cali-256). I had never before seen a Secure Digital card and was surprised at how small the card is.

I opened the package, inserted the card into my MP3 player, and presto. Instant recognition. No need to format the card.
I started downloading my music files onto it, and noticed the speed was equivalent to the memory onboard my player. As a result, I now have an additional 120 mp3 files on my player!

I'd give the product five stars, but the memory size did not appear to my MP3 player as 512MB. It was slightly less than this - not too much less, but when I buy 512 MB, I certainly want all 512.

BAD quality! stay away!
I bought this (Sandisk 512 MB Secure Digital) in February and gave it to my mom as a gift in May. She used it in her digital camera and took pictures with it for her college reunion. Afterwards, the card displayed "Corrupt Data" and the pictures were lost! Do NOT buy this card, if you do not believe me, do a search for this card and you will see similar testimonials!
The grief and sadness this card has caused me is not worth its cheaper price!
user be warned!

by the way, the one i have is made in china, i have read these ones are the WORST

The BEST deal from Amazon yet...
I placed my order on the 10th & got it 4 days later.
That was not what I expected. I wasn't scheduled to get till the 20th - 23rd.
Talk about speedy delivery.
Oh & the card works GREAT! Can't beat a 512MB SanDisk Card for $74.00.
I will sure be using Amazon again!

Great Card. No Problems at all.
I use the Sandisk 512 SD card in my HP 2215 IPAQ. I have never had a problem with it and it gives me plenty of space to store all of the music that I enjoy. I would love to get a 1 GB card but I want to wait for the prices to come down a little more. This card is fast but I would still like it to be faster. I'm not sure if it is the card slowing down the process or the USB connection to my IPAQ. I was thinking about buying the Sandisk ULTRA SD card to see if there is a speed difference.

Horrible memory card for PDAs
Well after purchasing my second Sandisk product (the other was the 512K CF card) I will never buy another Sandisk product again, don't care if it is cheaper. I know you other PDA owners know what I am talking about. For digital cameras I don't know, it may or may not work fine. But I've used the Sandisk cards in my Dell Axim and Compaq Ipaq and have had the same problems. When transferring large amounts of data >15MBs the files do not write properly. Half of my mp3s that I tranfer do not play. In addition if you transfer data that is greater than the available amount on the card it will frequently erase all data on the card!!!!!!!

BEWARE, stay away if you are going to use this in your PDA. I've found no problems using Viking (1 CF card), MicroTech (1 CF) and Kingston ( 2 SD cards) products. ... Read more

Features

• High speed data transfer
• Secure transfer of copyright protected content
• Real-time recording of high resolution images and video
• Approximately 1/3 the size of a Memory Stick card
• Measurements -0.8 x 1.2 x 0.06

Features

• 100% Camera Compatibility Guaranteed, Plus a Lifetime Limited Warranty
• Professional Series Compact Flash with Write Acceleration Technology
• Speed rated at 80x (12 Mbps)
• Bundled with Image Rescue 2.0 & 30 day Trial of Photo Mechanic 4.0

Product Description

Memory Stick PRO is the same size as original Memory Stick (a little smaller than a stick of gum!), yet it can hold a lot more data and transfer information at even faster rates. It's a great way to record, save, and transfer digital images, MPEG movies, and music.Most of the newer Sony cameras and camcorders are compatible with Memory Stick PRO. For compatibility information on a specific model, check our product pages on digital cameras and camcorders, or refer to the owner's manual supplied with your device. Note: These media cards can only be used with products designed to accommodate Memory Stick PRO. They are not compatible with products designed only for original Memory Stick. ... Read more

Features

• Backwards compatible with Memory Stick PR
• Compact and easy to store
• 1 GB Memory Stick PRO
• Minimum write speeds of 15 Mbps
• Increased durability

Reviews (1)

Memory Stick Pro - Not Compatible with Older Sony Products
If you have an older Sony product and are thinking about "upgrading" do more memory do yourself a favor before dropping a "C" note on this product. Check Sony's memory stick compatibility web page at http://www.sonystyle.com/intershoproot/eCS/Store/en/imagesProducts/memcompatibility/index.html.
I didn't, and found out the hard way about in-compatibility after purchasing and trying the "Pro" stick in my older camera ... caveat emptor.
My nephew is now the proud owner of a 1GB memory stick ... it works in his camera. Now I have to decide to either buy 8 of the 128MB (the largest memory compatible with my camera) or consider a replacement camera. ... Read more

Features

• 1GB maximum storage capacity
• Designed to support read and write speeds of 80 Mbps on high speed enabled devices
• Operating temperature range of -13? F to 185? F allows greater durability
• Backwards compatible with devices that use Memory Stick(R) PRO Duo media
• Included adaptor allows compatibility with Memory Stick(R) PRO media enabled devices

Features

• Ultra fast up to 9 Mb/sec data transfer rate
• Small size
• Holds up to 100 high resolution images
• Works with any CompactFlash enabled device
• High-density flash memory and optimized controller technology lets you save large image files faster

Reviews (14)

Great card!
Bought one of these cards and I love it. I have a Canon 300d/Digital Rebel.

I originally used a Canon 32MB card which performed horribly. It would take on average 10 seconds to write one JPG at the highest resolution.

With the 512MB Ultra II card it takes from 1-2 seconds to write the same image. It also allows you to shoot continuous shots longer.

With 6+ Megapixels--I think the 512MB card is the perfect size for a full day of shooting. I can get about 165-170 shots on a card. I am glad I did not get the 256MB card.

Lastly, it also allows quicker image previewing from the camera, flipping between images is so so much faster. I think the extra money for this card is well worth it.

Canon Digital Rebel
This is the card you want if your getting a Digital Rebel! The 512 will get you about 142 pictures.It downloads fast ,and gives you great pictures,what more do you want.If you are spending at least 1000 dollars on a camera don't go cheap on the compact flash cards! Get a good one! This card I got online for about 150 dollars.Make sure you are getting the Ultra 2 not just the Ultra there is a difference the Ultra is good but not as fast as the Ultra 2 ,you will be thankful you spent a few a

extra bucks and got the best card for the Canon Digital Rebel

Got mine from Amazon. 60X write, 66X read.
I pre-ordered this item from Amazon. Apparently, there was an initial delay with Amazon's supply, but I just got mine. With a price like this and free shipping (which, despite being "Super Saver," was speedy as usual), I have no complaints.

Works fine so far, and the capacity boost over my old 64MB card has me almost giddy: The "pictures remaining" counter on my 3MP camera jumped from about 40 to over 300.

Helpful info: The manufacturer's "X" speed rating equivalent, which isn't easy to find online, is 60X write and 66X read.

Amazon can't deliver
I ordered this before tax day in April and I am now told that I won't see it until August. Amazon has blown past expected delivery dates several time so far, so I have no reason think that they will meet the August date. Order this product only if you never want to receive it.

Works fine - but not from Amazon
I have two of these, one in a Canon Powershot S500 and the other in a Powershot S1 IS and both work fine. No problems at all.

The ordering issue was something else, eventually I gave up on Amazon's extended and extending delivery times and bought them on Ebay for $10 more. I buy a lot of gear from Amazon and I was disappointed this time, but that's one in a hundred where they have totally failed my expectations, not bad overall.

It's a fast memory card, it works, it's available on Ebay. What else is there to say? ... Read more

Features

• Larger storage capacities than standard Memory Stick cards
• High-speed data transfer rate of 15Mbps for DVD-quality video in real time
• The fast transfer rates help prevent data loss when power is suddenly cut-off or if the media is removed accidentally
• Advanced security with Access Control Function and MagicGate technology

Reviews (4)

excellent alternate for expensive sony media
Why is sony almost twice as much as the Sandisk? I don't know, but the performance is exceptional. Identical to Sony, so why would you even spend the money? Highly recommend this product for movies and pictures.

Great Price + Works
Bought 1 of these with the Sony DCP-100 camera. Works so well I bought another one. Each stick holds about 200 5MP pictures. Much less expensive than the Sony Sticks - works the same and has a 5 year warranty.

does not work with P900
this product is marketed as the equivolent to the sony "pro duo" cards (at least that is the impression i gained from the web site) but it definately did not fit in my p900 phone at the sony pro duo cards do...

Just as good as Sony
I purchased this card because the Sony brand was almost twice the price. I used it in the New Cybershot F828 and it works great. Fast write speeds, fast review, delete and transfer rate. And the best, is the video recording feature. This card captures it perfectly despite the fact that it is not a Sony. It is just like watching a video tape. The quality that this card captures is amazing. I am very pleased with this purchase and feel comfortable recommending it to all. Note that this card is NOT compatable with the older Cybershot cameras. It is good for cameras that were available after 2003. Another word of caution, you will not get the full amount of 512 megabytes from this card, because of the magic gate feature. You won't lose much and overall it is still a great investment. On the 8 megapixel setting, you will yield about 124 images on this 512mb card. Excellent deal!!! Go for it!!! ... Read more

Features

• Improved write performance in WA enabled cameras
• Combination of camera and card firmware that reduces read/write protocol
• Performs just like standard 80x cards in non WA enabled cameras
• Type I CompactFlash format
• 12 Mbps sustained write performance

Features

• Faster write speed means less time between shots
• Ready for rapid-fire shooting
• High-density flash memory and optimized controller technology lets you save large image files faster
• Lifetime Warranty

Reviews (3)

Test memory ASAP
This performed as wonderfully as other reviewers describe -- until I came close to filling it. Then it would not format via camera or computers. Of course, this occurred a week out of warranty. Lesson: I shall now exercise every bit of memory as soon as I receive it -- fill it fast or slow with data. That applies to all sizes and speeds of course.

WOW!!!! THIS THING IS AWESOME!!
I just bought this thing from Amazon and all I can say

is WOW!!!!

This is probably the best purchase I have ever made.

This thing is everything I ever expected and more!! It's

very easy to use as well!

I have bought other brands before, and this one just

blows everything else out of the water! I have to say,

everyone out there who is thinking of buying this, stop

thinking. I bought it and I am extremely happy with it

the moment I powered this thing on. YOU ABSOLUTELY

POSITIVELY CANNOT GO WRONG WITH THIS PURCHASE! I

GUARANTEE IT!!!

Performance is worth the price premium.
I just received a SanDisk 512MB Ultra II Secure Digital card and did a quick & dirty performance comparison with the non-ultra SanDisk SD card. If you just want the results, then go to the bottom of the review. For the more inquisitive, here is my test configuration:

linux-2.4.22 (with ehci to enable usb2.0) connected to . . .
usb2.0 hub connected to . . .
SanDisk SDDR-88 usb2.0 memory card reader

commands for the write test:
- mount -o noatime,sync /dev/sda1 /flash_memory
- cat testfile > /dev/null
- time cp tesfile /flash_memory

The first command forces any writes to the flash_memory to happen immediately, so there is no caching going on. The second command reads through the ~50MB testfile and caches it into memory (no need to access the hard disk). The third command actually copies the test file to the memory card and times it.

commands for the read test:
- umount /flash_memory
- mount -o noatime,sync /dev/sda1 /flash_memory
- time cp /flash_memory/testfile /dev/null

The first command unmounts the flash memory and clears the cache. The second command mounts the flash memory so the computer can access its files. The third command actually copies the file, which must be read directly from the card because we cleared the cache, and times the copy.

The read and writes tests were performed multiple times, and the results varied little between iterations. The 512MB card was completely empty, and the 256MB card had a small 3MB file.

The SanDisk Ultra II card turned in some impressive numbers:
writes: 4.95MB/sec (5048.2KB/sec)
reads: 8.19MB/sec (8389.96KB/sec)

For comparison, here are the numbers for the SanDisk 256MB non-ultra card:
writes: 0.86MB/sec (876.44KB/sec)
reads: 1.53MB/sec (1570.69KB/sec)

If you need performance, then the SanDisk Ultra II series is the way to go. The Ultra II reads and writes more than five times as fast as the plain-vanilla SanDisk secure digital card. In my case, I will be using the card to store MP3 files for a portable audio device, and waiting around while moving MP3s is not how I want to spend my time. So, I bought the Ultra II. Your needs may vary. Buy accordingly.

Also, I realize that other manufactures market "high-performance" memory cards, but since I don't own one, I can't recommend/jeer them here. ... Read more

Features

• Ultra-Compact and Lightweight -- the Smallest Flash Media Card Available
• Provides High Read/Write Speeds Necessary for Today's Newest Digital Cameras
• Rigid Memory Card Construction for Exceptional Durability
• For all xD-Picture Card Compatible Digital Cameras

Reviews (5)

Works great in my Olympus C-8080 8 mega pixel camera
This card works perfectly in my 8 megapixel Olympus C-8080 digital camera.

At the camera's highest resolution setting of 3264x2448 pixels with minimal JPEG compression (SHQ in Olympus terminology), I am able to shoot and store 130 pictures. This is approximately 3.9MB per image on average.

At 640x480 pixels with 'normal' JPEG compression, this xD card fits 5324 pictures. It's also very fast and well worth the money and convenience.

I also have the 256MB xD card as a bsckup in case I fill up the entire 512MB xD card before downloading the images to my laptop PC.

SO many pictures
In my Fuji F700 camera this card will hold 343 6mp images, and almost twice that at 3.2mp. Can't wait to take my camera on vacation this summer. The nice thing about such a large card is you absolutely never feel like taking a picture would be a waste of space. It'll also hold (not at the same time obviously) about 7-1/2 minutes of 640x480 video with sound.

Transfer rates are blisteringly fast, too. And since the F700 comes with a docking station, I doubt I'll ever have to take the card out.

Fast and Tiny
I use it for my 8 MP digital camera, and I'm pleased with how quickly it receives image data. Its miniscule size is both an advantage & disadvantage: so small it's easy to lose, but it's equivalent to 4 rolls of 36 exposure 35mm film.

The Size To Get!
I own three Fuji cameras, an S602Z, S5000 and S7000. I've already reviewed the xD 128MB card here, shooting down the CF crowd who trashed Fuji's xD format as 'non standard'.. hey, does it make sense to cling to an obsolete 'standard'? xD has every advantage over CF.. far lower power consumption (for your CF card snobs, that means that your batteries drain a lot faster than mine), is smaller than a postage stamp, writes blazing fast.. a couple, three seconds for a RAW file, even TIFFs write faster than on my old San Disk 256MB CF cards that I had used in a Nikon 990 and in my s602z... I use the xD in the s602z with a CF adapter, it's faster. ... and now Fuji projects size increases up to 8 GIGABYTES.. on the xD card. Can you say 'TIME TO LOSE THE MICRODRIVE!' 1GB xD card is coming out real soon. This is a better technology than the old CF cards, and since there are no mechanical parts, there's no reason to use a Microdrive.. I mention this because the Fujis have a CF II slot for a Microdrive. What's a Microdrive.. a HARD DRIVE. What happens to all hard drives.. they're mortal. They die. Something to consider, when you can acheive the same storage easily with a couple (soon, ONE) xD cards. In actual use, I just leave my 512 xD in the camera when I transfer photos, this way I never touch it. The price is right, the technology superior. There's also at least one USB xD Flash memory device.. I bought one, and now use an xD card to carry files around from my PC. You can swap the xD cards in and out of the USB flash stick, very nice, so now I can boot Linux off of an xD card that's smaller than a postage stamp. Wow, think of the possibilities.

Don't even think of not getting one of these!
Besides being a super-fast media format for your digital cameras, it is a convenient size for vacations and travelling.
Why fill up small cards & miss a shot, or have to carry around a pocket full of smaller capacity cards? Plus, the price per meg beats getting a bunch of the smaller cards.
Do take care, though, in handling, as the card is delicate & only about the size of a postage stamp.
I use this for my Fuji S5000 and haven't had to worry about missing a photo op. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Olympus xD-Picture Card is compact for smaller and more stylish digital devices. It's powerful for amazing memory capacity now, and increased memory capacity in the future. It's durable, making it a media you can trust with your most valuable data. And it's versatile, for unprecedented device flexibility. Olympus xD-Picture Cards--the most advanced digital media cards ever for the best digital images yet. Nothing's impossible.

Quickly and easily transferring images and data to a computer is a cinch when the Olympus xD-Picture Card is used with any xD-compatible product. And it's just as easy using non-xD devices as well, thanks to a number of groundbreaking adapters that will be available, including a CompactFlash Adapter, SmartMedia USB Reader/Writer, and PCMCIA/PC Card Adapter.

Designed with the most advanced storage technology available, the Olympus xD-Picture Card system meets the memory capacity needs of today, while also being readily available to fulfill the increased memory capacity needs of tomorrow.

Olympus xD-Picture Cards are the only xD cards that support the Panorama function found on most Olympus digital cameras. ... Read more

Features

• 256 MB storage capacity
• Ultra-compact 0.97" by 0.98" by 0.67" size
• Designed for maximum durability
• Compatible with most products that use xD cards
• Supports the Panorama function found on most Olympus digital cameras

Reviews (7)

Not a commodity if you shoot in Panorama Mode
Several reviewers have indicated xD memory is a commodity. Buyer beware: If you have an Olympus digital camera, and you shoot in the Panorama mode (which I use regularly and really like when snowboarding and backpacking), you HAVE TO HAVE AN OLYMPUS BRANDED xD CARD; non-Olympus cards don't support and won't enter the mode

commodity product; buy where you want
I bought this item from the local office supply store. Costco has it cheaper and has a better return policy (and is 5 min. from my house). Buy this where it makes sense.

Beware xD memory...
Thank heavens analogue cameras standardised on 35mm. Just imagine you went into a shop and had a choice of 2inch, 30mm, 25mm, 33mm, 35mm etc films, only one of which would fit your camera. Olympus have done a Sony and repackaged the same old memory chips (e.g. SD, MMC, SM, CF, MD) as xD and decided to sell it at twice the price of SD memory. Once you buy one of their (admittedly good) digital cameras the small xD market will force you to buy expensive memory that is incompatible with almost everything else our there. As I already own some cheap standard SD memory that's not usable in most Olympus cameras, I have had to look elsewhere for a camera :o(

Great Card!!
This is a great card if you want to shoot video or shoot high mb photos. Unfortunately for Amazon, its less than $80 at Costco.

Enough of confusing standards and formats
I wish the electronics manufacturers don't take consumers for granted. Every year, they come with new storage cards and drive formats. That is the reason many like me are not happy to buya a new electronic device. How can you improve the economy if you don't standardise these sort of things and give the confidence to the consumer that what he/she buys will stay productive and useful at least for two to three years? Remember it is the middle class common man who forms the largest consumer base. We just got over a few years ago from Betamax and VHS formats. Now we have competing DVD formats making most of us totally confused and preventing us from buying any of the multiformat DVD writers even! Until these sort of the incompatabilities are not sorted by all the manufacturers together, they are bound to loose their investment and have poor returns. ... Read more

Features

• Designed for use by digital cameras and devices that accept the XD-PictureCard
• Up to 512MB Storage

Reviews (3)

perfect
Whats there not to like about this card?? A little pricey maybe, but you wont have to get another one any time soon!!!

Does not work with Olympus C-50
Be warned: this memory card is not compatible with the Olympus C-50 camera. The best you can get in the 128.

Plenty of Storage
This is a great card if you plan to take many photos. The only caveat is that for use with an Olympus C50 you must get a firmware upgrade which can take up to 10 days and requires you to ship the camera to Olympus. ... Read more

Features

• Ultra fast down load and uplode speed up to 10 MB per second
• Very small size
• Lifetime warranty
• 2 GB Memory Capacity
• Work with any Compactflash enabled device

Product Description

TransFlash Memory ModuleThe TransFlash product is an ultra small, semi-removable flash memory module based on the miniSD card and TriFlash designs for future mobile phone products, especially the transfer of personal content between TransFlash-enabled phones. Due to the ultra small size of the product, it is not intended to be handled or removed on a frequent basis. The TransFlash form factor will be promoted globally to other mobile phone manufacturers. ... Read more

Features

• The TransFlash memory module can be inserted into an adapter and used in other SD-enabled devices
• Semi-removable Memory Module
• Expands memory capacity for mobile phones
• The world's smallest removable storage module
• Compatible with all TransFlash mobile devices

Reviews (1)

TransFlash to Secure Digital Adapter INCLUDED!
After emailing Amazon to enquire if this particular model came with the TransFlash to SD card adapter and receiving a response that they didn't know, I contacted SanDisk with the model number to find out on my own. Their response was much more helpful, SanDisk said that all their TransFlash cards come with the SD card adapter (Secure Digital). I have a Motorolla V710, all I had to do to put MP3's (which can be used for ringers) onto this card is format it in my phone and then use a memory card reader to add MP3's to the card. Easy, Quick and Effective. This is a great product for the price, buy it and enjoy! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The stylish, SLR-style Konica Minolta Dimage Z2 is offers appealing features for a wide variety of photographers--from sports enthusiasts to serious wildlife photographers. Packed with power, yet easy to use, the Dimage Z2 features an amazing 10x optical zoom lens, quick startup time (1.8 seconds), and a rapid autofocus (the fastest for digital cameras of this class as of January, 2004) that helps you capture images in virtually any situation. It also offers a 4-megapixel resolution, VGA-quality video mode with audio, and a real-motion LCD monitor.

Optics and Resolution The Dimage Z2 has a maximum resolution of 2272 x 1704 pixels, good enough for enlargements up to 20 x 30 inches. It also offers 1600 x 1200 (2 MP), 1280 x 960 (1 MP) and 640 x 480 (VGA) resolution modes. The camera's 10x optical zoom lens is a fast f2.8 - f3.5, allowing fast shutter speeds for sports or natural-light photography. With a focal range of 5.8mm-58mm, it is equivalent to a 38-380mm 35mm camera lens. When combined with the seamless 4x digital zoom, it has an amazing 40x zoom range, equivalent to a 38-1520mm lens.

Movie Mode
The Dimage Z2 can record high-quality VGA (640 x 480) movies at 30 frames per second (fps), which is comparable to S-VHS video. It also offer's the world's first (as of January, 2004) SVGA option, with a resolution of 800 x 600 and a 15 fps rate. Viewed on a PC, the SVGA movie delivers approx. 6.3 more pixels than the standard QVGA (320 x 240) found on many other comparable digital cameras. You can record as much video as your

More Features
The Dimage Z2 features Rapid AF with Predictive Focus Control to ensure sharp images with minimum delay. The Rapid AF system uses a high-speed drive to focus the lens quickly and smoothly--a 0.3 second focusing time at a focal length of 5.8mm and 0.4 seconds at 58mm--giving the DiMAGE Z2 the world's fastest AF among digital cameras with a built-in 10X or greater optical zoom as of January 1, 2004. The Predictive Focus Control compensates for the minute delay from when the shutter-release button is pressed until the image is captured and adjusts focus right up until the exposure is made.

Startup time is a mere 1.8 seconds and shutdown time is 2.4 seconds. After focus has been locked, the shutter-release time lag is 0.06 second -- comparable to a 35mm SLR camera. The Z2 is ready to capture another image in just 1.2 seconds after the previous exposure.

The powerful built-in flash can cover distances of up to 20 feet (6.1 meters) with the lens at its widest angle. Unlike most compact digital cameras, the Dimage Z2 offers extra versatility with flash photography. It has a hot shoe for attaching any of these Konica Minolta flash units: the Maxxum Flash 2500(D), 3600HS(D), or 5600HS(D).

The Real Motion LCD monitor uses a 60 fps rate, showing action smoothly compared to the slower 30 fps rate of conventional monitors. It's also equipped with Konica Minolta's exclusive Switch Finder, a unique system allows the camera's LCD monitor to be viewed either directly or through the viewfinder. Since a single monitor is used, you need not worry about the color, contrast, and resolution difference between separate rear and viewfinder monitors. Automatic monitor amplification brightens the monitor under low light so the live image is always visible

Select the UHS (Ultra High Speed) option from the rapid shooting menu. The enlarged 32MB internal memory allows the Z2 to capture 15 images at 10 frames per second. When the shutter-release button is pressed and held, Progressive Capture begins saving images in the buffer memory. Five frames are saved with standard continuous advance and 12 frames with UHS continuous advance

Other features include:

• Super Macro mode lets you focus as close as 1.2 in. (3cm) from the front of the lens
• Real-time histogram shows the luminance distribution of the image before it is captured
• Output photos directly to a PictBridge-compliant printer without having to go through a personal computer
• Flash modes: auto, red-eye reduction, fill flash, and slow sync
• Five subject programs--portrait, sports action, landscape, sunset, and night portrait--cover common and specialized shooting conditions and can be selected manually
• Four exposure-control modes: programmed AE, aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual
• Three selectable metering modes: multi-segment, center-weighted, and spot

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on Secure Digital (SD) or MultiMedia (MMC) memory cards; a 16 MB starter card is included (which will store approximately 17 standard 2272 x 1704 images). It transfers images to Macs and Windows-based PCs via a speedy USB 2.0 connection.

CxProcess II Image Processor
Konica Minolta's newest image processing technology, CxProcess II, is used to bring out the best in the 3.3 megapixel CCD. CxProcess II controls the essential image qualities of color, contrast, and sharpness while minimizing noise. Brilliant, saturated color remains vibrant without becoming unnatural. Subtle contrast is rendered to retain the richness and depth of the subject while preserving details in the highlights and shadows. Sharpness is controlled to show fine detail while minimizing hard, unnatural edges.

Power and Size
The camera is powered by four AA batteries (alkaline included; NiMH rechargeables recommended). The Dimage Z2 measures 4.3 x 3.1 x 3.2 inches and weighs 10.8 ounces without batteries or recording media.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Dimage Z2 digital camera, 16 MB Secure Digital memory card, 4 AA alkaline batteries, neck strap, lens cap, accessory shoe cap, USB and A/V cables, and CD-ROMs with Dimage Viewer and ArcSoft VideoImpression software. ... Read more

Features

• 4-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 11-by-15-inch enlargements
• GT 10x optical lens system combines with 4x digital zoom for 40x total zoom
• TV-quality movie recording; 1.2-inch super macro mode; 1.8-second start-up time
• Store images on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards
• Powered by AA-size batteries

Reviews (14)

great for the enthusiastic beginner
I've had this camera for a little over a month and so far, I love it. It's got the full-auto (point-and-shoot) mode for the casual photographer/beginner, but it also has a variety of manual modes and advanced features like aperture priority, shutter priority, program mode, and full manual, as well as manual white balance for those interested in learning the art of (digital) photography.

The two built in macro modes (close and *really* close) allow for excellent close-up shots. Despite having almost no experience in photography beyond point-and-shoot cameras, I was taking pretty good macro shots my first day with it (at least that's what mom said ;). The 10x zoom is great for the long shots. The 16MB SD card is useless (pick up at least 256MB). I still carry the 16 for a spare, but at the highest image resolution, I doubt I could fit 10 pictures on it.

Do yourself a favor and buy the lens adapter ring and a UV filter for the camera. The UV filter can be had pretty cheap, won't affect picture quality, and will keep your built-in lens safe from scratches, dirt, and UV rays (evidently pretty damaging to camera equipment). And having the adapter, you'll be able to attach other filters as your need/skill grow. Oh, and get a couple of sets of rechargeable NIMH batteries too. They'll save you a lot of money. I briefly looked into the Konika-Minolta LI battery pack that's made for the camera, but being more than half the price of the camera, decided it was more expensive than I needed. At least for now.

So far, my only complaints are: the battery cover door seems pretty flimsy. I'd like to see something more substantial. And, I'm not sure the idea of the mechanical mirror used to select the view through the eyepiece or on the display screen is wise. It just seems like more mechanical parts to fail in the future. Also, the use of the eyepiece won't prolong battery life as it would in most digital cameras.

So, it's few faults aside, I give the KM Z2 a solid 5 star rating.

You will not regret the purchase
This camera will do everything for you except hold it in place. The auto mode does it all. I was very impressed with the battery life and BRIGHT flash. The camera is just perfect, video mode is brilliant, no noise from the camera's AF feature. The zoom, well seeing is believing, you will not believe the details that you are missing on these 2x and 3x zoom cameras. Can't wait for the next generation. Get one!

Where's the color?
I purchased my Z2 and couldn't wait to see the great images it could produce with 4 megs and 10x zoom. What a disappointment! I want my old Olympus 510 back. The color is horrible on the Z2. I could get the color ok by adjusting the white balance in the program modes (not using a flash), however it's not adjustable in the "Auto" mode, which also meant switching back to "Auto" for a flash shot. Also, this camera's size and shape make it totally impossible to just carry around in your pocket. I have missed way too many shots because I didn't have the camera with me.

Great Camera
What a great camera! I compared this to a Cannon Elph, and this camera blew it out of the water. It's real easy to use, it's light, and the auto focus is quick. From the time you press the shutter button to the time the camera takes the picture is lightning fast. The Cannon Elph was a lot slower, causing me to miss action shots. The picture quality is great!

Quality product
In short, I did a LOT of research, and I found this camera to fit my needs best. The 4MP are more than adequate, the stills are sharp, the menus friendly, the video AWESOME. Well worth your money. ... Read more

Features

• High transfer rate for fast copy/download
• Non-volatile solid-state; no moving parts maximizes battery power; Data is not lost when power is turned off
• Operating shock rating of 2,000Gs, equivalent to a 10-foot drop to the floor
• Compatible with all digital cameras, handheld PCs, digital audio players, and other devices that feature a CompactFlash slot
• High storage capacity