Canon introduces high performance entry level model camcorders; new ES200 and ES100 ideal family camcorders offering ease-of-use at an affordable price

Business Wire, March 26, 1996

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 26, 1996--Canon U.S.A. Inc. announced today the introduction of two entry-level 8mm camcorders, the ES200 and ES100. These latest additions to the ES Series camcorder line are designed to meet the needs of the family-oriented consumer with high performance features, including a Canon high quality Optical 15X Zoom Lens -- a feature first in this price category.

"We are excited about the introduction of these new entry-level models, since they represent a quality mix of high performance features at a price that is well within reach of the mass market consumer," says Yukiaki Hashimoto, director and general manager of the Canon Video Division.

Key features of the ES200 and ES100 include:

o An optical 15X power zoom lens

o Programmed Auto Exposure modes -- Sports, Portrait,

Spotlight, Sand & Snow -- and Full Auto mode

o A compact remote control

o Digital Signal Processing for outstanding image quality

o Title, date, & time display

o Backlight compensation

o Record search and review

o LANC editing terminal

o Line-in recording

The ES200 step-up model also includes the following:

o 113,000 pixel Color LCD Viewfinder

o Hi-Fi Stereo

Genuine Canon Optical 15X Power Zoom Lens

The ES200 and ES100 offer the most powerful optical zoom range in their price category. The 15X zoom meets the demands of a variety of shooting situations. Indoor scenes, group shots, macro close-ups and landscapes are enhanced by the camcorders' 4-60mm zoom lens, which provides greater versatility in image composition without moving the camera.

From indoor scenes to dramatic outdoor panoramas, the lens' wide angle capability gives the user a broad canvas of recording options.

Programmed Auto Exposure System Takes The Guesswork Out Of Shooting

The ES200 and ES100's Programmed Auto Exposure (AE) system automatically combines the proper shutter speed and exposure for specific shooting situations, resulting in the best possible image quality. Under normal shooting conditions, the program selector's A position ("Auto") offers effortless recording and outstanding results. To compensate for challenging shooting environments, users may choose from four selectable exposure modes represented by icons on a special Program AE dial, including:

o SPORTS mode -- provides clear images of sports action and

other fast-moving subjects.

o PORTRAIT mode -- dramatically emphasizes the subject and

softens the background by automatically reducing the

camera's depth of field.

o SPOTLIGHT mode -- compensates exposure for a brightly lit

subject on a dark stage or background.

o SAND & SNOW mode -- automatically adjusts exposure to

accommodate situations where a high degree of reflected

light may cause over-exposure, such as beaches or ski

resorts.

Compact Remote Control For Armchair Convenience

Both models are equipped with a compact remote control to make videomaking fun and easy. Ideal for recording group portraits, the remote control operates start and stop functions and the zoom lens, while recording from a distance of up to 16 ft. For effortless playback, play, fast-forward, rewind, pause and stop, all can be controlled with the hand-held remote.

Digital Signal Processing

Canon Digital Signal Processing ensures high performance and high image quality. Digital signals eliminate variability in quality between products and temperature levels, providing users with consistently superior image quality.

Design

Both models incorporate a sleek, ergonomic in-line design and an improved operating switch layout which combines program AE with an all-in-one power switch dial. This combination allows for easier handling of all functions from power on/off to camera and VCR operation. The operating system uses double function keys to reduce the number of operating switches. Functions are clearly labeled in every operating mode to avoid a complicated appearance.

Other Features

These models also offer a strong package of complimentary features for easy videomaking. For in-camera editing or instant replay of the last few seconds of recording, the ES200 and ES100 are designed with built-in record search and review. To accommodate a wide range of shooting positions, the camcorder is equipped with a 90 degree rotating viewfinder.

Titles can be created to easily recall the contents of a tape using a two line title generator with 16 alpha numeric characters per line. Dates and time of events may be superimposed during recording with one of three date and time displays: date only, date and time, and time only.

On-screen displays provide information such as recording, focusing and exposure modes, zoom meter, tape end, low battery power, title and date & time display.

The fade in/fade out function is activated by simply pressing and releasing the "FADE" button.

An auto sensing line-in feature is also provided, enabling the ES200 and ES100 to receive a broadcast signal or copy from a VCR. A LANC editing terminal allows users with ancillary video editing equipment to edit their video footage with ease.