Epson Captures Entry-Level Consumers With Value-Packed, High-Performance Digital Camera

Business Wire, July 12, 1999

TORRANCE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 12, 1999--

New PhotoPC 650 Offers Megapixel Resolution and

Plug `n Play USB and Serial Image Transfer for Under $350

Epson America Inc., the creator of high-quality, award-winning digital imaging products, today unveiled the value-packed, high-performance PhotoPC(R) 650 megapixel digital camera. Epson's PhotoPC 650 is an economical choice for home, education or business consumers who are unwilling to compromise image quality, ease of use and performance. The PhotoPC 650's 1152 x 864 pixel resolution enables consumers to print images up to 5" x 7" with stunning results. Supporting USB and serial image transfer on Windows(R) and Macintosh(R) computers, the PhotoPC 650 will be available for an estimated street price of $349.

"The PhotoPC 650 sets a new standard in digital photography by providing excellent image quality at an affordable price," said Lisa Dempsey, assistant product manager, digital cameras, Epson. "Epson is dedicated to providing digital imaging solutions for a variety of customers, including those who are just beginning to explore and embrace digital photography."

Value-Packed Digital Camera for Work or Play

In addition to a 1.09 megapixel CCD sensor, the Epson PhotoPC 650 features an auto-focus, aspherical glass lens system for capturing sharp, detailed images. The camera's 37mm threads enable consumers to add optional wide angle, telephoto and close-up lenses to suit their picture-taking needs at home, school or work. The built-in 1.8" LCD monitor allows instant preview and playback to ensure a perfect shot each time. For added convenience, a status display LCD provides information regarding number of pictures remaining, battery life and resolution mode. A protective lens cover has also been included to keep dust and dirt off the lens. To ensure sufficient storage capacity, an 8MB USB-enabled CompactFlash(TM) card by Lexar Media(TM) comes standard with the camera for storing 47 fine or 88 standard resolution images.

High Speed, USB Image Transfer

The PhotoPC 650 also comes bundled with Lexar Media's JumpShot(TM) USB cable to enable USB image transfer to Windows 98, iMac(TM) and PowerMacintosh G3(TM) computers with a USB port. Using the JumpShot cable, transferring pictures from the camera's 8MB USB-enabled CompactFlash card to the computer is amazingly quick and easy -- simply insert the card into the JumpShot cradle, plug the cable into a USB port and then drag and drop the pictures from the card to the desktop. Since this method of image transfer doesn't require the camera to be connected and powered, consumers will benefit from extended battery life.

For consumers with non-USB enabled computers, the PhotoPC 650 also supports traditional serial transfer of images to any Windows or Macintosh PowerPC(R) computer with an available serial port. A TWAIN driver for Windows and a Plug-In driver for Macintosh is included to support the serial transfer. The PhotoPC 650's software bundle also includes PictureWorks(R) HotShots(TM) for retrieving, organizing and enhancing images.

Total Imaging Solution Rebate Offer

Epson offers a full line of digital imaging products and is now offering two attractive mail-in rebate offers. Customers who take advantage of this offer will be able to save up to $50 and experience the benefits of Epson's total imaging solution.

By combining an Epson digital camera with an Epson Stylus(R) Color printer, customers will receive $50 back by mail. With this offer, customers can purchase a complete digital photography solution for under $500. A $30 rebate is also being offered to customers who purchase an Epson scanner with an Epson digital camera. Both rebate offers will be available from July 15, 1999 through March 31, 2000.

Pricing and Availability

The PhotoPC 650 digital camera is expected to be available in mid-August for an estimated street price of $349 through computer and office superstores, mail order and other major retailers. Carrying a one-year warranty, the PhotoPC 650 is supported by the EPSON Connection, a fully automated customer support and technical assistance line. For more information on Epson and its products, call 1-800-GO-EPSON (1-800-463-7766) or visit the company's website at http://www.epson.com.

About Epson

Epson offers an extensive array of award-winning image capture and image output products for the consumer, business and graphic arts markets. The company is also a leading supplier of value-added point-of-sale (POS) solutions for the retail market. Founded in 1975, Epson America Inc. is the U.S. affiliate of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, a global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality technology products that meet customer demands for increased functionality, compactness, systems integration and energy efficiency. Epson America Inc. is headquartered in Torrance, California.

Note: Epson is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. EPSON Stylus is also a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. PhotoPC is a registered trademark of Epson America, Inc. Third party brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.