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Pentax Unveils Optio WG-2 Cameras

By TechTaffy Desk

[Techtaffy Newsdesk]

Pentax has introduced the Pentax Optio WG-2 and Pentax Optio WG-2 GPS digital compact cameras.  The models are rugged, waterproof, dustproof and shock-resistant and feature high-sensitivity shooting and full 1080p HD movie recording capability.

Improvements in the latest models include:

• High-resolution Full HD 1080p movie recording (1920 x 1080 pixels) at 30 FPS with high quality h.264 compression.

• Waterproof to depths of 40 feet.

• Digital Microscope mode with one additional macro LED (total of six lights) for excellent macro lighting of subjects as close as 1 cm.

• A newly designed GPS module that delivers a shorter time lag before GPS start-up and longer battery life during GPS activation.

• A new optional SportMount Chest Harness that straps-on the WG-2 for hands-free HD movie capture

Features of the WG-2 include:

• Shockproof design protects camera drop up to 5 feet.

• Crushproof construction withstands weights up to 220 LBF (pound-force).

• Coldproof to sub-freezing temps of minus 10 degrees C (14 degrees F).

• Dustproof design protects the camera from dry, dusty environments.

• Wide angle 5X internal optical zoom lens (28-140mm equivalent).

• Large 3 inch LCD features HVGA resolution (460,000 dots) and anti-reflective coating on its protective cover.

• Hardened cover with SP coating protects internal lens elements.

• An HDMI port (Micro, Type-D) plays back beautiful, high definition images and video on HDTVs.

• Pixel Track, Digital, and Movie Shake Reduction ensure sharp, blur-free images and video.

• Fast Face Detection technology including Smile Capture and Blink Detection to capture perfect portraits.

• A Handheld Night Snap mode produces a single blur-free, composite image from four images of the same scene.

• An autofocus assist lamp helps to quickly and accurately focus.

• Extended dynamic range helps bring out extra highlight and shadow detail.

• PENTAX infrared remote control compatibility for remote shooting.

 

Priced at $349.95, Optio WG-2 will be available in a choice of Black or Vermillion Red, while the Optio WG-2 GPS will be priced at $399.95 in a choice of Shiny Orange or Gloss White. The new SportMount Chest Harness will be priced at $49.95 and should be available late spring or early summer 2012.  Optio WG-2 cameras can be pre-ordered on www.pentaxwebstore.com to ship by March 2012.

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