Sigma Corporation has released a firmware update for its sd Quattro cameras that adds the ability to save images in DNG.RAW format plus other bug fixes.

Being able to shoot raw files in the ‘universal’ DNG.RAW format addresses the problem of having to rely on Sigma’s extremely slow proprietary raw file conversion software to unpack the X3F files produced by the cameras’ layered Foveon sensors. The advantages of these sensors are well recognised: high resolution and sharpness plus rich colour rendition. But the software needed to convert X3F.RAW files into editable formats has been slow and flaky. Adding the ability to shoot DNG.RAW files (albeit with only 12-bit depth) enables photographers to carry out conversions with their preferred raw file conversion software, instead of having to rely on Sigma Photo Pro.  

Other improvements and fixes listed for the new firmware include:
– Compatible with the Live View Display of Sigma Capture Pro

– Compatible with the SFD mode of Sigma Capture Pro

– Offers faster AF speed of lenses from the Contemporary, Art and Sports lines by about 10 – 30%, and has improved the AF accuracy as well.

– When used with the Sigma Electronic Flash EF-630 for Sigma, it has improved the colour rendering of the White Balance’s Flash mode in (it requires the latest firmware for the EF-630 for Sigma as well).

– Corrected the phenomenon that the AF Shooting button did not work while the camera was using AF Lock.

– Corrected the phenomenon that adjustments on the marked images could occasionally freeze the software when the card has an X3I file in it.

– Improved the general operation of the software to achieve better stability.

The camera’s instruction manual has been updated accordingly and is available at http://www2nd.sigma-photo.co.jp/downloads/manual/sdQ_FW104_EN.pdf.  The new firmware is available at http://www.sigma-global.com/en/download/cameras/firmware/#sd