Q: Which OS is the OptioMX compatible with?
Please refer to the information below. USB interface: Windows 98/98SE/Me/2000/XP, or Mac OS 9.2/10.1/10.2/10.3, and a standard equipped USB port (Driver installation required for Windows 98/98SE only). Working environment for ACDSee for PENTAX packaged software:
OS CPU Windows 98/98SE/Me/NT/2000/XP Pentium or later (Pentium III 500MHz or faster) 64MB or more (128 MB or more) 40MB or more (50MB or more) Requires CD-ROM drive Internet Explorer 5.5 or later, QuickTime 6.0 or later, DirectX 9.0 or later, and Windows Media Player 9.0 or later. Macintosh Mac OS 8.6 or later Power Macintosh 266MHz or faster 8MB or more 6MB or more Requires CD-ROM drive, QuickTime 4.0 and the latest version of CarbonLib. Classic environment is required for using ACD Photostitcher on Mac OS X or later.

Memory HDD volume Other

Note : An SD memory card reader is required for Windows NT and Mac OS 8.6 environments which do not support USB connection. The OS should be pre-installed. Working status is not guaranteed for all qualifying PCs. Figures within parentheses above represent the minimum system requirements for using ACD Showtime! for PENTAX. ACD Showtime! for PENTAX is compatible with Windows only.

SALES GUIDE

Q: What are the accessories?
The OptioMX comes complete with an exclusive broad and rigid strap, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and software as standard. A wide conversion lens are available as optional accessories.
Q: Is the exterior of the camera made of metal?
The exterior is made mostly of plastic. An entirely new concept in digital imaging a single unique advance offering high-quality stills and enhanced movie performance.
Q: In which languages can the OptioMX display messages?
The OptioMX can display menus and messages in 9 languages comprising English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese (both traditional and simplified), Korean and Japanese.
PENTAX and Optio are trademarks of PENTAX Corporation. All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Designs and specifications are subject to change without notice. This sales guide is printed on recycled paper.
http://www.digital.pentax.co.jp
PENTAX Corporation 2-36-9, Maeno-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 174-8639, Japan (http://www.pentax.co.jp) PENTAX Europe GmbH (European Headquarters) Julius-Vosseler-Strasse, 104, 22527 Hamburg, Germany (HQ - http://www.pentaxeurope.com Germany - http://www.pentax.de) PENTAX U.K. Limited Pentax House, Heron Drive, Langley, Slough, SL3 8PN, U.K. (http://www.pentax.co.uk) PENTAX France S.A.S. 12/14, rue Jean Poulmarch, 95106 Argenteuil Cedex, France PENTAX Benelux B.V. (for Netherlands) Spinveld 25, 4815 HR Breda, Netherlands (http://www.pentax.nl) (for Belgium & Luxembourg) Weiveldlaan 3-5, 1930 Zaventem, Belgium (http://www.pentax.be) PENTAX (Schweiz) AG Widenholzstrasse 1, Postfach 367 8305, Dietlikon, Switzerland (http://www.pentax.ch) PENTAX Scandinavia AB P.O. Box 650, 75127 Uppsala, Sweden (http://www.pentax.se) PENTAX Imaging Company (A Division of PENTAX of America, Inc.) 600 12th Street, Suite 300, Golden, Colorado 80401, U.S.A. (http://www.pentax.com) PENTAX Canada Inc. 1770 Argentia Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5N 3S7, CANADA (http://www.pentax.ca)

55792 Printed in Japan

Product concept

Major features

Whats so unique about the OptioMX?

PENTAX Optio MX

10X optical zoom +10X digital zoom (Max.100X)
SANYO/FISHER Xacti C1/FVD-C1

OLYMPUS C-770 Ultra Zoom

KONICA MINOLTA DiMAGE Z2
10X optical zoom + 4X digital zoom (Max. 40X)

CANON PowerShot S1 IS

10X optical zoom + 3.2X digital zoom (Max. 32X)
5.8X optical zoom +10X digital 10X optical zoom + 4X digital zoom (Max. 58X) zoom (Max. 40X)
2. The advantage of MPEG-4 movie recording Whenever there are subjects or occasions that could be better expressed with a movie than a still, the customer will be free to enjoy the benefits of MPEG-4 compatibility recording up to an incredible 120 minutes of movies in a satisfyingly smooth, refined manner. The user can also react to potential movie moments with speed and ease. In fact regardless of whether the user is in a still shooting or playback mode, movie recording can be instantly activated with the press of an independent movie button. Located at the top of the versatile grip, this can be easily, intuitively pressed with the thumb without delay. The movie function also provides the user with control over recording quality too, with a choice of 640 x 480, 320 x 240, and 160 x 120 recording pixels. Image quality MPEG-4/Motion JPEG comparison in recording duration and frame rate are also selectable, with the user having the ability to choose from Best, Better and Good, and 30fps and 15fps.

PENTAX OptioMX 512 sec.

A unique single package offering the utmost in cost performance, PENTAX believes the OptioMX has big enough potential in worldwide markets to pioneer an entirely new market segment. Please read on to find out more about the OptioMX, arming yourself with the information to plan and refine a strong sales strategy.

OLYMPUS C-sec.

300 sec.

Competitor comparison

PENTAX Optio MX SANYO/FISHER Xacti C1/FVD-C1 OLYMPUS C-770 Ultra Zoom
MPEG-4, 30fps (soundless)/ QuickTime Motion JPEG/15fps (with sound, up to 100 min.)
MPEG-4, 30/15fps with sound, up to MPEG-4, 30/15fps, up to 60 min. 120 min.
Motion JPEG 30/15fps, up to180 min. Motion JPEG 30/15fps, up to 60 min.
3. USB2.0 connectivity for high-speed data transfer to PCs To simplify and speed the transfer of large volumes of recorded images to a wide range of common PC applications, the OptioMX features an exclusive USB2.0 port.

USB data transfer speed comparison
Rotating gun grip (180 degrees)

Stationary grip

PENTAX OptioMX

4.97 times

SANYO Xacti C1/ FISHER FVD-C1

1 times

6. Optional wide conversion lens In addition to its excellent zooming capabilities, the OptioMX can also be combined with an easily mounted optional wide conversion lens. This effectively modifies the focal range to cover angles of view equivalent to those of a 28.5mm lens in 35mm format. The camera also features a built-in auto flash too, which has been specially designed to pop up high enough to provide optimal lighting assistance despite the diameter of the wide conversion lens.

Times 6

USB2.0
Wide conversion lens available

USB1.1

Not available
Compatible only when used with an optional adapter

Available

4. Vertical- & horizontal-swiveling, 1.8-inch, CG silicon TFT color LCD monitor featuring low-reflection glare control The LCD monitor can be swiveled through 180 degrees horizontally and 210 degrees vertically. This makes it easy for the user to compose satisfying shots or record movies even when shooting from high or low angles. Furthermore, it also employs a new low-reflection system too, which has been specially designed to maximize visibility even when used in bright sunlight.
7.Exclusive power sources: rechargeable lithium-ion battery and AC adapter kit Operating with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery housed within its versatile grip, the OptioMX offers the user a choice of power source. Whats more, theres also an international AC adapter kit available as an option too, which is ideal for conserving battery power when making full use of the cameras long-duration shooting capacity. As its name suggests, it can be used with different types of power sockets around the world.

1.8-inch, TFT color LCD

1.5-inch, TFT color LCD
1.8-inch, CG silicon TFT color LCD 1.5-inch, TFT color LCD (semi-low(low-reflection type) reflection type)
5. Flexible, backward rotating grip for easy shooting at any angle The unique gun grip of the OptioMX gives the user the freedom of a new style of shooting and also reduces fatigue when the camera is used over an extended period of time. From the resting position it can be rotated backward through 180 degrees. Whats more this is done in a smooth, stepless manner, allowing users to set the grip exactly where they want it. And to make it easier to hold for people with large hands, the grip can be pulled out when rotating it backwards. This ergonomic grip also features an independent movie button, which can be comfortably pressed with the thumb, and the grip also acts as the housing for the battery too, thereby making the most efficient use of space. Furthermore, the rotating comfort of the grip is compounded by the ability to manipulate the LCD panel too, enabling the user to shoot from above the head, or from the hip with ease.

Rechargeable lithium-ion battery and AC adapter
Lithium-ion battery, AC adapter & battery charger
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery

Four AA batteries

8. ACD Showtime! software for easy movie editing The OptioMX comes complete with a CD-ROM containing an application called ACD Showtime! for PENTAX, which allows the user to edit video files with extreme ease. All the user has to do is run the ACD Showtime! for PENTAX application and click the Create Video File icon at the center of the screen to display the following screen.
With a single click of the pasted file, the image is displayed on the upper half of the screen. Then a click of the blue button is all thats required to activate playback.

Click here.

Next, a transition can be selected from the choice shown on the left of the screen, and a sound file can be added if desired. A click on Display mode switching will bring up the screen shown below on the right. Now simply click on the microphone to paste in a sound file. A movie or still file can then be pasted in by simply clicking the icon and pasting the file, as is shown here.
Click on Code to play the file back again for checking. Then click the preview area on the screen and the coding begins. The file is then ready to be saved.

Paste here.

ACD Showtime! for PENTAX

Sanyo software Pack 7.0

VideoStudio 7 SE Basic

VideoImpression Ver.2

Arcsoft VideoImpression
LCD and zoom lens technology
9. Streaming recording for movies Unlike systems which pool all image data on a buffer prior to storing it in the memory in one go, the OptioMX employs a streaming system. As a result, the OptioMX directly processes image data while shooting a movie, writing it simultaneously to an SD memory card. Due to the use of this technology, the OptioMX is able to shoot movies with significantly extended durations.
1.8-inch, CG silicon TFT color LCD monitor featuring low-reflection glare control CG silicon TFT Whereas the LCDs of competitors use low-temperature silicon TFTs and TFDs or amorphous silicon TFTs, the Thin-Film Transistor of the OptioMXs LCD is made of a material known as CG (Continuous Grain) silicon. This enables the LCD of the OptioMX to feature a higher dot density. It also allows the circuit to be positioned directly on the LCD glass panel. Low-reflection glare control maximizes visibility in bright light With conventional TFT LCDs, no particular additional treatments are applied to the transmissive area. In the case of the TFT LCD employed by the OptioMX, however, the LCD is specially treated so that only the area not used for transmissive display is reflective. As a result, it provides a level of transmissive quality on a par with conventional TFT LCDs, yet also provides improved visibility when used in circumstances with high levels of ambient light, such as when shooting outdoors in fine weather.

Low-reflection LCD Transmissive LCD
Compatible with streaming recording

(Diagram of LCD pixel)

10. PictBridge compatibility The OptioMX supports PictBridge a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association). PictBridge compatibility means the OptioMX can be easily connected to a compatible printer via USB cable to make printouts of recorded images without the need for a PC. The OptioMX handles Single Image Print, All Image Print and DPOF Auto Print. PictBridge also offers a range of other handy direct functions too, enabling even more freedom of control with functions such as resizing, trimming, and digital filters.

Bus line

Transmissive electrode Auxiliary capacity (Cs)

Indoors

Glass Glass

PictBridge compatible

Reflective electrode The reflective electrode can be expanded if necessary.

Backlight unit

Outdoors (With sunlight reflection)
Playback images shown on LCD
The smc PENTAX 5.8mm-58mm power zoom lens An excellent example of the renowned smc PENTAX series, the lens of the OptioMX is composed of 8 groups of 12 elements and enables impressive 10X optical zooming. Wide-angle shooting Enabling the capture of expansive scenes, the lens of the OptioMX offers an angle of view equivalent to that of a 38mm lens in 35mm format.
Telephoto capability The OptioMX also allows the user to benefit from the versatility of telephoto shooting too, zooming in to an angle of view equivalent to a 380mm lens in 35mm format.
Competitor comparison chart
Feature/Function Effective Pixels Sensor Recorded Pixels Still Movie Sensitivity File Formats Still Movie Sound Still Movie
PENTAX OptioMX 3.2 megapixels 1/2.7 inch CCD 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 1024 x 768, 640 x x 480, 320 x 240, 160 x 120 Auto, fixed (equivalent to ISO 100, 200, 400)
SANYO Xacti C1/FISHER FVD-C1 3.2 megapixels 1/2.7 inch CCD 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 640 x x 480, 320 x 240, 176 x 144 Auto, manual (50, 100, 200, 400)
OLYMPUS C-770 Ultra Zoom 4.0 megapixels 1/2.5 CCD 2288 x 1712, 2288 x 1520, 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960, 1024 x 768, 640 x x 480, 320 x 240, 160 x 120 Auto, fixed (equivalent to ISO 64,100, 200, 400)
KONIKA MINOLTA DiMAGE Z2 4.0 megapixels 1/2.5 CCD 2272 x 1704, 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960, 640 x x 600, 640 x 480, 320 x 240, 160 x 120 Auto and equivalent to ISO 50,100, 200, 400
CANON PowerShot S1 IS 3.2 megapixels 1/2.7 inch CCD 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 1024 x 768, 640 x x 480, 320 x 240 Auto and equivalent to ISO 50,100, 200, 400 JPEG, DCF, DPOF AVI(Motion JPEG), 30/15 fps

JPEG (Exif 2.2), DCF, DPOF, Print Image Matching II JPEG (Exif 2.2, DCF, DPOF) MOV (MPEG-4), Streaming, 30/15 fps, with sound (PCM, monaural) MPEG-4, 30/15 fps Voice memo/Voice reocrding: WAV (ADPCM), monaural AAC (Best), (Best), SD memory card smc PENTAX power zoom 5.8mm-58mm (equivalent to 38mm-380mm in 35mm format) F2.9-F3.5, 12 elements in 8 groups (1 dual-sided aspherical elements and 1 aspherical element) Thread for filter attachment (37mm), with lens cap Max 10X (Max approx. 100X zoom) (Better), (Better), (Good) (Good) 3.2M, 2.0M, 0.3M TV-SHQ, TV-HQ, TV-S, Web-HQ, Web-S SD memory card 5.8mm-33.8mm 38mm-220mm in 35mm format F3.5-F3.7, 11elements in 8 groups ND filter
JPEG (DCF) / TIFF, DPOF, Exif2.2, Print Image Matching II JPEG, DCF2.0, DPOF (Ver.1.1), Exif2.21 MPEG-4 (30 fps) / QuickTime Motion JPEG (15 fps), with sound Motion JPEG(MOV), 30/15 fps, with sound (monaural) still : WAVE format TIFF, SHQ, HQ, SQ1, SQ2 MPEG-4, SHQ, SQ xD picture card 6.3mm-63mm 38mm-380mm in 35mm format F2.8-F3.7, 11elements in 7 groups (2 aspherical elements and 1 ED lens) Fine, Standard, Economy

Quality Levels

Superfine, Fine, Normal VGA-Fine, VGA, QVGA CF card (Type l or Type II) 5.8mm-58mm 38mm-380mm in 35mm format F2.8-F3.1, 11elements in 9 groups

Storage Media Lens

SD memory card, MMC 6.3mm-63mm 38mm-380mm in 35mm format F2.8-F3.7, 11elements in 7 groups
Digital Zoom Focusing System Type Focusing Areas Focusing Range Autofocus
MAX 10X (Max approx. 58X zoom)
4X (Max approx. 40X seamless zoom) TTL contrast detection autofocus system Manual focus / Infinity-landscape mode available
4X (Max approx. 40X seamless zoom)
3.2 X (Max approx. 32X seamless zoom)
TTL contrast detection autofocus system Manual focus / Infinity-landscape mode available 5-point autofocus, spot autofocus Still
5-point autofocus Normal: 0.6m (1.97 ft.) to infinity (W), 2.0m (6.56 ft.) to infinity (T) Macro: 0.07m (0.23 ft.) to 0.6m (1.97 ft.) (W), 1.2m(3.93 ft) to 2.0m (6.56 ft.) (T) Super macro: 0.03m (0.5 in.)
A combination of a passive AF sensor and a video AF system TTL contrast detection autofocus system one-shot AF, Continuous AF, Full-time AF, Manual focus available Manual focus available 3-point wide focus area 1-point AF (Any position is available) Normal: 0.5m (1.6 ft.) to infinity (W), 2.0m (6.56 ft.) to infinity (T) Macro: 0.07m (0.2 ft.) to 1.0m (3.3 ft.) (W) Super macro: 0.03m (1.2 in.) to 1.0m (39.4 in.) 0.1m (0.33 ft.) - Infinity (W), 0.93m (3.1 ft.) - Infinity (T) Manual focus: 0.1m (3.9 in.) - Infinity (W) 0.93m (3.1 in.) - Infinity (T)

Normal: 0.4m (1.31 ft.) to infinity at 5.8mm / 1.2m (3.9 ft.) Standard: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to infinity (W), to infinity at 58mm 0.8m (2.62ft.) to infinity (T) Macro: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to 0.5m (1.64 ft.) at 5.8mm / 0.6m (1.97 ft.) Super macro: 0.02m (0.06 ft.) to 0.6m (1.97 ft.) (W) to 1.5m (4.9 ft.) at 58mm Super macro: 0m (0 ft.) to 0.15m (0.49 ft.) at 5.8mm Manual focus available (0m (0 ft.) to infinity) Normal: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to infinity at 5.8mm / 1.2m (3.9 ft.) to infinity at 58mm Macro: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to infinity at 5.8mm / 1.2m (3.9 ft.) to infinity at 58mm Super macro: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to infinity at 5.8mm / 1.2m (3.9 ft.) to infinity at 58mm 2 EV (1/4 steps) Continuous shooting time: approx. 120 min. (max.) Approx. 1/2000 sec. to 4 sec. Built-in series-control retractable flash Approx. 0.1m - 5.1m (0.33 ft. - 16.73 ft.) (5.8mm at sensitivity ISO 200) Approx. 0.6m - 3.8m (1.97 ft. - 12.46 ft.) (58mm at sensitivity ISO 200) Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten light, Fluorescent light, Manual setting Exposure, White balance, Saturation, Sharpness, Contrast 1.8 inch, CG Silicon TFT color LCD (low-reflection type), with brightness adjustment (Approx. 134,000 pixels) Swiveling 210 degrees vertically, 180 degrees horizontally 1.5 inch TFT color LCD (trans-refrection type) with brightness adjustment (Approx. 110,000 pixels) Swiveling 293 degrees 1.8 EV (0.3 steps) Approx. 60 min. 1/2000 sec. to 2 sec.
Exposure Compensation Movie Shutter Speed Flash Effective Range
2 EV (1/3 steps) Max approx. 100 min. 1/1000 sec. to 4 sec. Built-in flash, Hot-shoe for optional external flash Approx. 0.3m - 4.5m (0.98 ft. - 14.76 ft.) (wide) Approx. 1.2m - 5.2m (3.93 ft. - 17.05 ft.) (tele) iESP auto TTL, Pre-set manual (Daylight, Overcast, Tungsten and Fluorescent) Selectable from 1/3EV, 2/3EV and 1EV steps, 5 images 1.8 inch TFT color LCD Approx. 118,000 pixels
2 EV (1/3 steps) Max approx. 180 min. 1/1000 sec. to 30 sec. Auto flash Approx. 0.16m - 6.0m (0.52 ft. - 19.68 ft.) (wide) Approx. 1.2m - 4.5m (3.93 ft. - 14.76 ft.) (tele) Automatic, Preset (Daylight, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Cloudy, Flash Custome)
2 EV (1/3 steps) Approx. max. 60 min. 1/2000 sec. to 15 sec. Built-in flash Approx. 1.0m -4.2m (3.28 ft. - 13.77 ft.) (wide) Approx. 1.0m -3.8m (3.28 ft. - 12.46 ft.) (tele) Auto, Pre-set (Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Flash), Manual
Approx. 0.1m - 1.2m (0.33 ft. - 3.93 ft.) (wide) Approx. 0.8m - 1.1m (2.62 ft. - 3.61 ft.) (tele) Auto, Fine weather, Cloudy weather, Fluorescent light, Incandescent light

White Balance

Auto-Bracket LCD Monitor
1.5 inch TFT color LCD Approx. 113,000 pixels
1.5 inch TFT color LCD (Approx. 114,000 pixels) 100%
PictBridge Interfaces Video Output Power Sources

Printing Mode

Single image print, All images print, DPOF auto print AV output terminal, USB terminal (USB2.0), DC input terminal Compatible with NTSC and PAL formats (monaural sound) Rechargeable D-LI7 lithium-ion battery Optional AC adapter also available AV output terminal, USB1.1 NTSC / PAL Litium-ion battery AC adapter and battery charger AV output terminal, USB terminal NTSC / PAL Rechargeable Litium-ion battery Optional AC adapter also available USB2.0 NTSC / PAL Four AA Ni-MH batteries, AA alkaline batteries (External power source pack) Optional AC adapter also available 109.5 x 77.5 x 80.0mm (4.27 x 3.0 x 3.12 inches) 305g (10.8 oz.) without batteries and recording media USB (mini-B), AV-Out NTSC or PAL selectable monaural audio Four AA alkaline batteries Four AA NiMH batteries (NB-2AH) AC adapter (CA-PS700) 111 x 78 x 66.1mm (4.37 x 3.07 x 2.6 inches) (excluding protrusions) Approx. 370g (13.1 oz.) without batteries and CF card

Dimensions (WxHxD) Weight
73 x 59 x 103.5mm (2.9 x 2.3 x 4.1 inches) (excluding protrusions) 330g (11.6 oz.) without battery and SD memory card 375g (13.1 oz.) loaded and ready
69 x 108 x 34mm (2.7 x 4.2 x 1.3 inches) 155g (5.5 oz.) without battery and SD memory card 174g (6.1 oz.) loaded and ready
104.5 x 60 x 68.5mm (4.11 x 2.56 x 2.7 inches) (excluding protrusions) 300g (10.6 oz.) without batteries and xD picture card

Specifications

Type Effective Pixels Sensor Color Depth Recorded Pixels Sensitivity File Formats Compact-type digital still camera with built-in zoom lens, autofocus, auto exposure and auto flash 3.2 megapixels 3.34 megapixels (total pixels) 1/2.7 inch interline transfer CCD with a primary color filter 12 bit 2048 x 1536 pixels, 1600 x 1200 pixels, 1024 x 768 pixels, 640 x 480 pixels 640 x 480 pixels, 320 x 240 pixels, 160 x 120 pixels Auto, fixed (equivalent to ISO 100, 200, 400) JPEG (Exif 2.2), DCF, DPOF, Print Image Matching II MOV (MPEG-4), Streaming, 30/15 fps, with sound (PCM, monaural) Voice memo/Voice recording: WAV (ADPCM), monaural Best, Better, Good Best, Better, Good SD memory card smc PENTAX power zoom 5.8mm-58mm (equivalent to 38mm-380mm in 35mm format) F2.9-F3.5, 12 elements in 8 groups (1 dual-sided aspherical elements and 1 aspherical element), thread for filter attachment (37mm), with lens cap Max 10X (Max approx. 100X zoom available combined with 10X optical zoom) TTL contrast detection autofocus system Manual focus/Infinity-landscape mode available 5-point autofocus, spot autofocus
Explanation of technical terms

Wide conversion lens

The attachment of a wide conversion lens provides the photographer with a wider angle of view for shooting. And because it reduces the focal length, depth of field is extended at each aperture compared to that offered by a lens of greater focal length. Such qualities make it an ideal choice for capturing landscapes or making the most of relatively close subjects with a limited sense of depth.
Still Movie Still Movie Sound

MPEG-4

Standing for Moving Picture Experts Group phase 4, MPEG-4 is a type of image data compression complying with the MPEG format. In terms of playback, MPEG-1 offers quality akin to that of a VTR, while MPEG-2 offers quality comparable to that of a high-definition TV. Because the OptioMX employs MPEG-4, it offers smooth VGA 30/15fps movies for extended periods of time.
Quality Levels Storage Media Lens

Still Movie

Digital Zoom Focusing System
Type Focusing Areas Focusing Range Autofocus

Streaming

Streaming refers to the ability to simultaneously handle a series of tasks, such as data processing and writing to an SD card while recording a movie at the same time. In the case of models featuring no streaming capability, image data is piled into a buffer until shooting is completed. This results in limited shooting time due to limited buffer capacity. With the streaming function the OptioMX does away with the need for a buffer and thus offers a maximum of 120 min. of movie shooting.
Normal: 0.4m (1.31 ft.) to infinity at 5.8mm / 1.2m (3.9 ft.) to infinity at 58mm Macro: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to 0.5m (1.64 ft.) at 5.8mm / 0.6m (1.97 ft.) to 1.5m (4.9 ft.) at 58mm Super macro: 0m (0 ft.) to 0.15m (0.49 ft.) at 5.8mm Manual focus available (0m (0 ft.) to infinity) Normal: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to infinity at 5.8mm / 1.2m (3.9 ft.) to infinity at 58mm Macro: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to infinity at 5.8mm / 1.2m (3.9 ft.) to infinity at 58mm Super macro: 0.1m (0.33 ft.) to infinity at 5.8mm / 1.2m (3.9 ft.) to infinity at 58mm TTL metering: Choice of Multi-segment metering, Center-weighted metering, Spot metering Picture mode, Program, Shutter-Priority, Aperture-Priority, Manual Landscape, Flower, Portrait, Self-portrait, Surf & Snow, Sunset, Night-scene, Soft, Illustration, Panorama Black & White, Sepia, Red, Pink, Purple, Blue, Green, Yellow (in playback mode only) 2 EV (1/4 steps) Continuous shooting time: approx. 120 min. (max.) (depending on memory card capacity) Programmed AE electronic lens shutter with CCD electronic shutter Approx. 1/2000 sec. to 4 sec. One-shot, Self-timer (10 sec. / 2 sec.), Continuous (normal/high-speed), Auto bracket (exposure, white balance, saturation, sharpness, contrast) Built-in series-control retractable flash Automatic discharge under low lighting conditions in auto modes. Flash-on and Flash-off modes. "Red-eye" reduction function employs a pre-discharge. Approx. 0.1m - 5.1m (0.33 ft. - 16.73 ft.) (5.8mm at sensitivity ISO 200) Approx. 0.6m - 3.8m (1.97 ft. - 12.46 ft.) (58mm at sensitivity ISO 200) Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten light, Fluorescent light, Manual setting Exposure, White balance, Saturation, Sharpness, Contrast 1.8-inch, CG Silicon TFT color LCD ( low-reflection type), with brightness adjustment (Approx. 134,000 pixels) Swiveling 210 degrees vertically, 180 degrees horizontally One-frame, Nine-image, 1X-12X magnification, Scroll, Slide show, Movie, Histogram, Rotation, Digital filter Displays the time in 62 cities (28 time zones) Single image print, All images print, DPOF auto print AV output terminal, USB terminal (USB2.0), DC input terminal Compatible with NTSC and PAL formats (monaural sound) Rechargeable D-LI7 lithium-ion battery Optional AC adapter also available Still: approx. 200 shots (CIPA testing) (using rechargeable lithium-ion battery at 23 degrees celsius room temperature with the LCD monitor on and flash used for 50% of the shots) Movie: approx. 100 min. (in-house testing) (using rechargeable lithium-ion battery at 23 degrees celsius room temperature with the LCD monitor on and flash used for 50% of the shots) Playback: approx. 200 min. (in-house testing) (using rechargeable lithium-ion battery at 23 degrees celsius room temperature with the LCD monitor on and flash used for 50% of the shots) 73 (W) x 59 (H) x 103.5 (D)mm (2.9 x 2.3 x 4.1 inches) (excluding protrusions) 330g (11.6 oz.) without battery and SD memory card 375g (13.1 oz.) loaded and ready

Dimensions Weight

Q: Where does the name MX come from?
The M stands for Movie, while the X stands for 10X zooming capacity.
Q: Once the power is switched off, are the settings automatically lost? It depends on the setting. However, if the user wants to preserve settings even when the power is turned off, they can easily do so by setting them in the Mode Memory. Q: Is it possible to record movies without sound?

No, it isnt.

Q: Does the grip have to be pulled out when it is rotated backward?
No it doesnt. Pulling it out when holding the grip simply allows people with large hands to achieve a more comfortable grip. People with regular or smaller hands should find that the grip can be rotated backward easily without it being pulled out first.
Q: Is it possible to shoot a still shot while recording a movie? Q: What is the range of the grips movement? How rigid is it?
The grip rotates through a range of 180 degrees. It has passed a rigidity test that verified it as withstanding torque of up to 30kgfcm. Technically speaking, this figure means that the grip can support a weight equivalent to a 30kg child. No, it isnt. You would need to stop recording a movie momentarily in order to shoot a still image.
Q: Is it possible to edit a movie using only the OptioMX?

No it isnt.

Q: How fast is the zooming speed?
Depending on the angle to which the zoom lever is turned, the OptioMX offers two-step zooming speeds (approx. 3 sec. in high-speed mode and approx. 10 sec. in low-speed mode) enabling excellent maneuverability between wide-angle and telephoto extremes. This feature is not offered by any competitor models. With the handy highspeed mode, you can achieve stress-free fast zooming even when using the 10X optical and 10X digital zooming capability.
Q: While shooting a movie, is it possible to use the optical zooming feature?
Yes, it is. The digital zoom can also be used.
Q: Can sound be edited also?

No, it cant.

Q: Does the OptioMX have a sound recording function? Q: What types of batteries are compatible with the OptioMX?
The OptioMX is compatible with the exclusive, rechargeable battery D-LI7. It is not compatible with AA batteries. There is a voice recording function (enabling recording up to available memory capacity) and a voice memo function (enabling recording up to 30sec. for attachment to a recorded still image).
Q: It looks like the grip should be able to house AA batteries. Why isnt it compatible with them?
From the perspective of optical design, the OptioMX needs to be able to control two groups of lenses simultaneously when zooming and focusing. This means that two pulse motors need be driven simultaneously when zooming. And though we did want to make the OptioMX compatible with two AA batteries (alkaline, nickel manganese, nickel hydride), unfortunately such a specification of battery is not capable of supplying sufficient power for these purposes.

Q: Is it easy to tell when optical zoom is switched to digital zoom?
Yes, a magnifying glass mark will appear.
Q: Is the OptioMX equipped with a super macro function?
Yes, it is. In comparison to other models, the OptioMX has much fewer mechanical restrictions, which results in its capability to shoot from a position of actually touching the subject*.
*When shooting at such proximity, light must be allowed to permeate.
Q: How long is the life of each battery?
Please refer to the table on the right. Battery Still shots (CIPA testing) Movie shots (in-house testing) Playback duration (in-house testing)
With the LCD monitor on and flash used for 50% of the shots Approx. 200 shots With the LCD monitor on and flash used for 50% of the shots Approx. 100 min. With the LCD monitor on and flash used for 50% of the shots Approx. 200 min.
Q: Can the OptioMX shoot using a self-timer?
Yes, it can. There is a choice of a 2- or 10-second self-timer. The LCD panel displays the countdown. The self-timer can not, however, be controlled by using the remote control unit.
Q: Can images be inverted or manipulated in a similar manner during playback?

Yes, they can.

Q: What are the shooting durations for movies?
Storage Capacity (with a Panasonic SD card)
640 x 480, High, 30fps 640 x 480, Middle, 30fps 640 x 480, Low, 30fps 640 x 480, High, 15fps 640 x 480, Middle, 15fps 640 x 480, Low, 15fps 320 x 240, High, 30fps 320 x 240, Middle, 30fps 320 x 240, Low, 30fps 320 x 240, High, 15fps 320 x 240, Middle, 15fps 320 x 240, Low, 15fps 160 x 120, High, 30fps 160 x 120, Middle, 30fps 160 x 120, Low, 30fps 160 x 120, High, 15fps 160 x 120, Middle, 15fps 160 x 120, Low, 15fps
Q: Can a date be imprinted on recorded images?
The OptioMX does not have a date imprinting function, however date imprinting can be done easily with the ACDSee software.
40:00 58:00 76:00 76:00 110:00 141:00 99:00 141:00 248:00 180:00 248:00 400:00 248:00 332:00 500:00 400:00 502:00 674:00

Unit (min:sec)

0:35 0:50 1:05 1:05 1:35 2:00 1:20 2:00 4:00 2:30 4:00 5:00 4:00 5:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 10:00
1:10 1:45 2:20 2:20 3:00 4:00 3:00 4:00 8:00 5:00 8:00 12:00 8:00 10:00 15:00 12:00 15:00 20:00
2:30 4:00 5:00 5:00 7:00 9:00 6:00 9:00 16:00 11:00 16:00 25:00 16:00 20:00 31:00 25:00 31:00 42:00

128MB 256MB 512MB

5:00 7:00 10:00 10:00 14:00 18:00 12:00 18:00 31:00 23:00 31:00 50:00 31:00 42:00 64:00 50:00 64:00 85:00 10:00 15:00 19:00 20:00 28:00 36:00 25:00 36:00 62:00 45:00 63:00 100:00 62:00 84:00 126:00 100:00 126:00 170:00 20:00 30:00 38:00 39:00 57:00 72:00 50:00 72:00 126:00 91:00 126:00 203:00 126:00 168:00 254:00 203:00 255:00 342:00

Q: How long does the date setting remain accurate when battery power runs out?
When a new battery is inserted into the camera and then removed after at least one day, the date setting will remain accurate for up to one day. During this day, the built-in clock will also continue to function accurately.
Q: Does the OptioMX have a built-in memory?

No, it doesnt.

Q: Does the OptioMX have a camera image stabilizer function?
No, it doesnt. However, the OptioMX design does maximize holding stability in order to minimize shaking caused by the hands.
High: 3Mbps Middle: 2Mbps Low: 1Mbps The bit rate (image quality) has not been fixed for Movie mode.
Q: Does the OptioMX have a noise reduction function?

Yes, it does.