Olympus Launches Six New Digicams

August 23, 2007: Olympus has added six new models to its digital camera line-up, including the entry-level Tough Lite 790SW, the SP-560UZ and three new Mju digicams.
The new 7.1-megapixel Olympus Tough Lite 790SW is an entry-level model in the Olympus ‘Tough’ range of waterproof and shockproof cameras. Shockproof against drops of 1.5 metres and waterproof to three metres, this model is being manufactured in four colours: silver, black, orange and blue. Also sporting a 7.1-megapixel imager is the Tough 795SW, which is due to go on sale next month at an RRP of $599. Both models have 3x optical zoom lenses plus HyperCrystal LCD screens with a 176-degree viewing angle. Also shockproof to 1.5 metres the Tough 795SW is waterproof to depths of up to 10 metres. Both models include Olympus’ TruePic III image processor plus proprietary Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment technologies that ensure portrait shots are correctly exposed, even in backlit situations.

The entry-level Mju 790SW, which is waterproof to 3 metres.

The Mju 795 is waterproof to 10 metres.
Other features include 23 shooting modes, among them four dedicated underwater settings, a built-in illuminator for low-light photography, in-camera fixes for red eyes, blurred shots and poor exposures plus movie capture at 30 fps with sound. Both models come with 14.7MB internal memories plus xD-Picture Card expansion slots.
The new SP-560UZ model features an 8-megapixel imager and 18x optical zoom lens (27-486mm in 35mm equivalent). Dual image stabilisation combines a mechanical stabiliser to counteract camera shake with Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment technologies. Continuous shooting at up to 15 frames/second (at 1.2-megapixel resolution) makes this camera ideal for sports photographers. A Super Macro mode allows close-up shots to 1 cm from the subject and users can choose from auto, P, A, S and M shooting modes or select any of 24 scene pre-sets.

Front and back views of the SP-560UZ

A high-resolution (230,000 pixel) 2.5-inch CLD monitor is provided for viewing and composing shots and movies can be recorded with sound. BrightCapture technology ensures excellent low light performance. Optional accessories include the TCON-017 teleconversion lens and CLA-10 adapter ring and the PT-037 underwater housing, which allows the camera to be used at depths up to 40 metres.

Front and rear views of the 12-megapixel Mju 1200.