The slim OptioWPi is only .9
inches thick
Features: The OptioWPi features a very slim
body and offers a JIS Class 5 dustproof rating and JIS Class 8 waterproof-rated
exterior. Perfect for outdoor activities in and around water including angling,
the OptioWPi offers high resolution images with a quick start-up, a 3X zoom lens
and an ultra-fast 9-point Autofocus to keep your fish pictures sharp.
The OptioWPi delivers premier optical performance
with a lens comprised of 11 elements in 9 groups. It also includes three
aspherical lens elements that compensate for aberration to make for even sharper
results, and makes use of a refraction lens system that enables it to deliver
6.3-18.9mm 3X optical zoom performance and cover angles of view equivalent to
those of a 38-114mm lens in 35mm format without ever extending from the camera
body. Together these features allow anglers to make the very most of the
OptioWPi's ample 6.0 effective megapixels. Images and sound can be stored in
JPEG (for images), MOV (for movies), and WAV (for audio).
Up to 20 seconds of audio data can be recorded
while a still image is being shot, extending from 10 seconds before to 10
seconds after the moment of shutter release. Such capability allows anglers to
capture special moments in a more memorable manner. Imagine narrating the
experience of landing your prized catch for an even more cherished documentation
of the whole event.
The Pentax OptioWPi may be
waterproof but it isn't safe from scratches or dents, but with the accessory
proactive skin it is better protected.
(The camera can be operated with the skin on)
Despite slim, flat body dimensions, the OptioWPi
features a large, 2.0 inch LCD monitor with 115,000 pixels for precise
confirmation of recorded images. This low-reflection monitor also features a
backlighting mechanism that effectively maximizes visibility, even when used
outside on sunny days, and additionally offers a “Power saving mode” that
automatically reduces backlighting intensity to make batteries last longer.
Within the large 2.0 inch LCD screen the OptioWPi
allows anglers to edit movies in the palm of your hand! The
Pentax movie editing function edits recorded
movies in-camera. Selected clips can be saved as new movie files, or users may
select single frames for saving as individual still images. Separate movies can
also be combined as one file.
Pentax shipped the camera's predecessor, the
OptioWP, in April 2005 and followed with the announcement earlier this month of
the limited availability of a protective, silicone skin. Priced at $19.95 US,
the new skins are designed to fit both the OptioWPi and the OptioWP. Additional
plans are underway to offer the Pentax OptioWPi in the alternative colors of
burgundy and cobalt as well as traditional silver.
|
Not only can the OptioWPi be fully
submerged it also has a JIS Class 5 dust rating so that grit will not enter the
unit and interfere with the camera's operation, imagine wiping off fish slime
with a wet towel! |
Availability & Pricing: Anglers will just
have to wait a bit longer to get their hands on the waterproof and dustproof
Pentax OptioWPi. The camera will go on sale in October at a price of $350. This
is a very reasonable price for a digital camera offering 6 megapixels, enhanced
movie modes, and waterproof capabilities.
Conclusion:
The Pentax OptioWPi looks like the camera that anglers, including the TT staff,
have all been waiting for. This small compact digital camera is designed to
deliver 6MP and features a sophisticated design that enables it to be fully
submerged for underwater shooting without the need for any waterproof casing!
How many cameras can be dropped in a stream while fishing and not only survive
the dip but actually be used to shoot fish underwater? For the full range of
outdoor sports in and around water the OptioWPi looks like a quality solution.
For anglers the OptioWPi looks like the perfect way to immortalize those great
moments spent fishing.