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Posts Tagged ‘world’s’

The world’s largest optical lens has been delivered for a $168M, 3.2-gigapixel telescope camera

01 Oct
Farrin Abbott/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

The SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in California, the lab overseeing the design and fabrication of a 3.2-gigapixel digital camera for the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST), has successfully received the shipment of what may be the world’s largest high-performance optical lens. The announcement was made earlier this month by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), where researchers designed the optical assemblies for the LSST.

At this point in time, the 3.2-gigapixel digital camera intended for the LSST is 90% complete, according to LLNL. SLAC has been tapped to manage the subcomponent integration and final assembly of the $ 168 million camera, which is currently estimated for completion in early 2021.

Image credit: Farrin Abbott/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Ball Aerospace in Colorado and Arizona Optical Systems built the lens assembly for the telescope, including the massive 1.57m (5.1ft) diameter L-1 optical lens and the smaller 1.2 (3.9ft) L-2 lens. According to LLNL, the L-1 is likely the largest high-performance optical lens ever created. It took around 17 hours to deliver the two lenses by truck to the SLAC in Menlo Park. Below are a few images of the delivery from the full Flickr album posted by SLAC:

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Livermore physicist Scot Olivier largely credited LLNL optical scientists Lynn Seppala and Brian Bauman, as well as LLNL engineers Vincent Riot, Scott Winters, and Justin Wolfe, for making the massive optical lens a reality. Once fully completed, the LSST will be used to capture digital images of the entire visible portion of the southern sky, according to Livermore, offering what experts anticipate will be ‘unprecedented details of the universe.’

Image credits: Farrin Abbott/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, used with permission

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nitecore announces ‘world’s first’ smart battery for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras

15 Aug

Nitecore has announced the NFZ100, the world’s first ‘smart battery’ for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras, including the a7 III, a7R III and a9 systems.

Like most ‘smart’ electronics, the unique feature of the NFZ100 is the ability to manage and monitor the battery with an accompanying smartphone app. Nitecore NNERGY, as it’s called, is available to download for free on both Android and iOS devices.

Once installed and connected to the NFZ100, the NNERGY app will let you monitor the battery health, battery level, battery voltage and other real-time battery information. Nitecore even offers a dedicated ‘Storage Mode’ within the app that will discharge the battery to 70% to help maximize its lifespan if it won’t be in use for some time.

Individual batteries can be labelled with three-digit identifiers to ensure you can tell them apart inside the app. There is even an option to upgrade the firmware of the batteries as Nitecore further develops its technology. Yes, you read that right, you might soon need to update the firmware of your camera batteries, not unlike you do your camera itself.

The NFZ100 batteries feature 2,280 mAh capacity, which Nitecore estimates is good for 500 still photos when shooting with the Sony a9. Voltage is 7.2V, giving it a power rating of 16.4Wh.

Other features include overcharge protection, over-discharge protection, overcurrent protection, over voltage protection and short-circuit protection. The batteries weigh 82.5g (2.91oz) and measure 52 x 38.7 x 22.5mm (2.05 x 1.52 x 0.89in).

The Nitecore NFZ100 doesn’t appear to be available to purchase through any online retailers as of now and no current pricing information is available. DPReview has contacted Nitecore and will update this article with more information if we get a response.

In the meantime, you can find out more information on Nitecore’s website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Oppo reveals world’s first smartphone with under-display front camera

27 Jun

Earlier this months both OPPO and Xiaomi teased technology that allows the front camera on a smartphone to be located under the display, avoiding any notches, pinholes or other screen interruptions.

Today OPPO has shown a first device with the feature at MWC Shanghai and provided more information about the under-display technology. In order to make things work both customized displays and camera modules are required.

The display section covering the camera is made of a highly-transparent material and features a redesigned pixel structure that is optimized for the transmittance of light. Still, some light will be absorbed by the display, so the camera comes with a bigger sensor with bigger pixels and a larger aperture than you’d find in conventional front cameras.

There are also customized white balance and HDR algorithms to help boost camera performance and to further reduce the transparent display’s unavoidable detrimental impact on image quality OPPO has developed a haze removal algorithm for sharper and clearer image output.

In its announcement OPPO said it is developing a “futuristic, notchless, unibody and highly-recognizable smartphone,” but has not provided any detailed specs or information on pricing or availability.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Techart TZE-01 is the world’s first Sony E to Nikon Z AF lens adapter

20 Jun

Chinese accessory maker Techart has announced the TZE-01, the first autofocus adapter for using Sony E-mount lenses with Nikon’s Z series cameras. Techart describes the adapter’s design as having been ‘difficult’ due to the Nikon Z-mount’s flange distance being just 2mm shorter than the Sony E-mount.

The Techart TZE-01 features a PCB sandwiched between the electronic connectors on both sides of the adapter, making it possible to use both the Sony E-mount Auto Aperture and Auto Focus lens functions, even when using the Nikon Z’s Face & Eye detection mode.

The TZE-01 finds room for a PCB to ‘translate’ between the Nikon and Sony communication protocols, allowing Nikon cameras to autofocus E-mount lenses.

Depending on which Sony E-mount lens is used, Techart claims its adapter allows the use of phase-detect AF to offer autofocus accuracy and speed ‘very close to (if not better) [than] native Z-mount lenses.’ The company claims other functions, including lens-based image stabilization are also supported.

At this time, the Techart adapter works with Sony E-mount AF lenses from Sigma, Sony, and Tamron / Zeiss. The adapter is shipped with a lens dock for firmware upgrades that will add additional lens support in the future. The TZE-01 adapter is available to purchase for $ 249 USD from TechartPro.com.

Techart unveils the World’s First Sony E to Nikon Z Autofocus Adapter with a thickness of 2mm

Guangzhou China, Jun 20, 2019 – Techart, who has previously launched the first autofocus adapter for manual lenses, has unveiled another groundbreaking product, Techart Sony E to Nikon Z Autofocus Adapter (TZE-01). The new TZE-01 is the world’s first autofocus adapter that allows Sony E-mount lenses to retain the Automatic Focus functionality when used on Nikon Z6 and Z7 cameras.

The flange distance of Nikon Z-mount is only 2mm shorter than Sony E-mount. This makes the design extremely difficult, let alone an electronic adapter where a chip and the connector pins have to be squeezed into. Techart has managed to pull it off and develop one which include connectors of both sides and a PCB board with chip to “translate” the protocol of the lens and the camera.

The Techart adapter enables both Auto Focus & Auto Aperture functions of Sony E mount lenses to be used on Nikon Z6 and Z7. AF-S, AF-C & MF mode are supported in both still & video shooting. The incredible Face & Eye Detection of Z-mount cameras can also be used. Other functions like lens vibration reduction and timelapse can also be used. Phase-detect Autofocus is adopted to guarantee both AF accuracy and speed to be very close to (if not better) native Z-mount lenses. Please note that functionality may vary when different E-mount lenses are used.

Nikon Z system is a relatively new system and users do not have a very complete lenses selection. Unlike the system of Sony, most lenses manufacturers have been releasing lenses in E-mount and so the selection is complete. The new Techart adapter currently supports most of the Sony, Sigma, Tamron & Zeiss AF lenses with Sony E mounts including some of the best sellers like Tamron 28-75mm, Batis 25mm f/2, Sony 24mm f/1.4 GM and Sigma 35mm f/1.4, etc.

The new Techart TZE-01 adapter comes with a lens dock for firmware upgrade. Simply connect the PC/MAC via a Micro USB cable (not included) and the firmware can be updated via the Techart App. Techart is currently working to support more lenses.

Pricing and Availability

The Techart Sony E to Nikon Z Autofocus Adapter is currently available for pre-order at our official website (http://www.techartpro.com). The recommended retail price before tax is USD 249/pc. Free shipping will be provided during the promotion period. Delivery will start from late June. 1-year warranty is included.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Vazen launches “world’s first” anamorphic lenses for Micro Four Thirds

04 Jun

Vazen, a Chinese optics manufacturer, is set to launch a trio of anamorphic lenses for Micro Four Thirds cameras. Showing at the Cine Gear Expo and spotted by Newsshooter, the company will be offering 28mm, 40mm and 65mm focal lengths with a 1.8x anamorphic effect.

The lens on show at Cine Gear is a 40mm T2 that will be shipping at the end of this month. When used on Micro Four Thirds cameras, such as the Lumix GH5/s, Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera or Z-cam E2, it will produce 2.39:1 aspect ratio images. Vazen claims the lenses will provide ‘buttery smooth oval bokeh, signature blue horizontal flare and the widescreen cinematic look’ as well as a minimum focus distance of 0.82m (2.7ft) for the 40mm example. The focus and aperture rings are fitted with gears and the front filter thread measures 110mm.

Below is sample footage captured with the 40mm T2 lens:

The 40mm version weighs 1.8kg (3.97lbs), is 110mm x 175mm (4.33in x 6.89in), and will cost $ 3,250. Users will have to wait until much later in the year for the 28mm and 65mm models. For more information see the Vazen website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The ‘world’s fastest’ 1TB microSDXC card is now available to purchase — for $449

17 May

Earlier this year, SanDisk announced the impending arrival of what it claims is the ‘world’s fastest’ 1TB microSD card. Now, the ridiculously dense memory card is available for purchase and, as you might expect, it doesn’t come cheap.

The 1TB SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSDXC card features read speeds up to 160MBps and write speeds up to 90MBps (30MBps minimum). It’s rated as a Video Speed Class 30 (V30), UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) card with the SD Association’s A2 specification.

The card isn’t labeled as ruggedized, but it’s quite robust according to SanDisk’s specifications. According to the SanDisk, the card is shockproof, waterproof, X-Ray proof and capable of operating in temperatures between -25 to 85°C (-13 to 185°F).

The SanDisk 1TB Extreme UHS-I microSDXC card, which comes with an SD adapter, is currently available to pre-order on B&H for $ 449.99, although that appears to be a temporary discount of $ 25 through May 18, 2019.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The Etch-A-Snap (probably) the world’s first Etch-A-Sketch camera

16 Apr

Meet the Etch-A-Snap, the Frankenstein’d creation of self-taught programmer Martin Fitzpatrick. As the name alludes to this creation is the result of mashing together a Pocket Etch-A-Sketch, a Raspberry Pi Zero, and onboard camera module, a couple servo motors and a number of other goodies to create what is ‘probably’ the world’s first Etch-A-Sketch camera.

The photos captured with the onboard camera are shrunk down to a 240×144 pixel image and converted to a 1-bit black and white color palette. Once processed, the resulting image is then processed and subsequently converted into plotter commands. Those commands, which look a bit like an Etch-A-Sketch drawing on their own, are then converted into an analog Etch-A-Sketch image through two 5 v stepper motors that are mounted into a custom 3D printed frame.

The Etch-A-Snap is powered by four ‘AA’ batteries and three 18650 LiPo cells, making it a self-contained unit that can be carried around (although not easily, based on the looks of it). According to Fitzpatrick, it can take anywhere from 15 minutes to one hour to create a sketch, depending on the complexity of the photo. He says the device now runs at 20 pixels per second, a dramatic improvement over the two pixels per second it was running at in earlier tests.

In addition to the above clips, Fitzpatrick has also shared a number of photos and videos on Two Bit Arcade explaining the process. If you’re feeling brave, he’s also provided all of the materials and assets he used to create the device at the bottom of the post. It isn’t for the faint of heart though from the looks of it, not to mention you’ll need access to a 3D printer.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Rode’s Wireless GO microphone system claims to be ‘the world’s smallest’

08 Apr

Rode has introduced the Wireless GO, a wireless microphone system that being deemed as ‘the world’s smallest, most versatile’ system of its kind.

Similar to its Wireless Filmmaking Kit, the Wireless GO is a kit that consists of a transmitter (TX) and receiver (RX). The difference is, the Wireless GO TX module works as a standalone microphone thanks to its internal omnidirectional condenser microphone and integrated clip or as a transmission unit for Rode’s lavalier microphone via the onboard 3.5mm TRS input.

The two modules measure in at approximately 44mm x 45mm x 18.5mm and weigh just 31g / 1oz. Wireless connectivity is powered by Rode’s new Series III Digital 2.4GHz transmission technology that’s rated for a maximum distance of 70m / 230ft in clear line-of-sight situations.

The modules include built-in Li-po batteries that are rated for seven hours of use and can be recharged via USB. Speaking of USB, the units can be updated with firmware using the same USB-C port that’s used to charge them.

The Wireless GO microphone kit comes with two fur windshields, one pouch, one USB-A to USB-C cable and one SC2 cable. B&H has the system available to pre-order for $ 199 with an estimated shipping date of April 17, 2019 at the time of posting this article.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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‘World’s sharpest’ 250mm lens now on Kickstarter with swappable lens mount

20 Feb

Taiwanese lens manufacturer William Optics is proposing to make a flatfield Petzval lens aimed at star gazers and photographers that it claims is the world’s sharpest 250mm.

Originally conceived as a compact and lightweight telescope for astrophotographers, the Redcat 250mm F4.9 uses a pair of synthetic fluorite elements to correct the usual field curvature of the Pretzval design to produce a sharp image right across the frame, according to the company. It is also claimed the lens is corrected to apochromatic standards.

A manual focus lens with a single aperture setting, the Redcat 250mm F4.9 is being promoted for normal subjects as well as for astrophotography on its Kickstarter campaign page. Those using it at night might not get to appreciate its startling red finish, but daylight photographers shooting wildlife could feel a little conspicuous.

Designed with a 44mm covering circle the lens is good for full frame cameras, and comes with an interchangeable T-mount system that allows options for Canon EF, Nikon F and Sony E cameras, with Micro Four Thirds and Pentax K to follow shortly. The lens weighs 1.47kg / 3.24lbs, measures 225mm x 80mm, and features a field rotation function for turning the camera on the mount, with markings for every degree. A reversible mount on the tripod foot has fittings for Arca-Swiss and Vixen style heads, and the lens comes with what is described as a ‘patented’ Bahtinov Mask for astro-focusing.

Sample shot with the Redcat 250mm f/4.9

At the time of writing the funding campaign had raised over $ 47,000 – well beyond the goal of $ 30,000. With most of the discounted deals gone, the lens can be had for $ 648, which the company says represents 93% of the full retail price. Visit the Redcat 250mm f/4.9 campaign page for more information, or the William Optics website.

Disclaimer: Remember to do your research with any crowdfunding project. DPReview does its best to share only the projects that look legitimate and come from reliable creators, but as with any crowdfunded campaign, there’s always the risk of the product or service never coming to fruition.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Samsung starts production of world’s first 1TB eUFS storage module for mobile devices

30 Jan

Samsung announced it has started mass-producing the world’s first 1TB embedded Universal Flash Storage 2.1 (eUFS) module for mobile devices. Given we are now pretty close to the launch of the new Galaxy S10 flagship series, it looks like there is a chance we might see a 1TB option for at least one of the S10 devices.

Samsung says the new module is the same size as the 512GB variant in the Galaxy Note 9. The increase in density has been made possible using V-NAND technology that vertically stacks NAND cells in order to maximize density and efficiency.

According to Samsung the new module offers sequential read speeds of up to 1000MBps and write speeds of 260MBps, enough for the continuous recording of high-speed video at 960fps. In terms of both storage capacity and transfer speeds the new module should also make an interesting combination with Samsung’s new 8K-capable Exynos chipset.

According to Cheol Choi, Samsung’s executive vice president of Memory Sales & Marketing, “the 1TB eUFS is expected to play a critical role in bringing a more notebook-like user experience to the next generation of mobile devices.”

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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