LUMIX DMC-FT4 PANASONIC introduce a new addition of LUMIX DMC-FT4 to its rugged design FT series specially geared for active outdoor use. This Japan-made camera is waterproofed to 12m with shockproof to 2m, freeze proof to -10 degrees C and completely dustproof. The DMC-FT4 is equipped with built-in GPS system with over a million place name information, compass, altimeter and barometer for users who enjoy active outdoor adventures. Plus, more than 1,000,000 of landmark information covers 82 countries or regions. The photos and videos with the location names are automatically sorted in the virtual folder alphabetically in the camera allowing quick reach. For the more avid photographer, the DMC-FT4 manual operation allowing users to set shutter speed and aperture for more creative freedom. A variety of special mode including Time Lapse Shot, Miniature Effect, and Panorama Shot, all add fun to shooting experience with DMC-FT4. Also, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode lets users take exceptional photos and videos. In iA mode, the camera's multi-capable functions happen automatically, so that users can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings. The DMC-FT4 incorporates a high-quality LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR 28mm wide-angle lens with a 4.6x optical zoom (35mm equivalent: 28-128mm). The folded optics of shaft guide method is adopted to secure the toughness of the lens unit which comprises of 10 elements and a prism unit in 8 groups including, 1 ED lens and 5 aspherical lenses with 6 aspherical surfaces passing the Leica's stringent standards to deliver exceptional optical performance to the edges. Although the DMC-FT4 is a tough camera, high picture quality is achieved with the LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens in folded optics, 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor and the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine. The DMC-FT4 is compatible with high-speed, large-capacity signal processing required for 1,920 x 1,080 full-HD video recording in AVCHD/MP4. It also contributes to the high-speed burst shooting and the Sonic Speed AF to catch the most fleeting shooting opportunities. The Intelligent Zoom is available with the DMC-TS4 (FT4) which extends the zoom ratio by approx. 2x maintaining the picture quality even combining the digital zoom. This means the 4.6x optical can virtually extend to 9.3x equivalent. The 12.1-megapixel CCD with 2-channel signal output structure boasts higher signal transfer speed for the operations that require high performance and speed such as 1920x1080 full-HD video recording and high speed continuous shooting. The picture quality is beyond that of standard rugged design digital compact cameras thanks to the higher sensitivity which is made possible by highly efficient light condensation adoption larger on-chip micro lenses. Despite its compact profile of body, the DMC-FT4 is capable of recording full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 50i (PAL) videos in AVCHD (MPEG-4 / H.264) format. The AVCHD format excels in the compatibility with AV equipment like HDTVs or Blu-ray Disc players. – SG