Peter K. Burian

Still the only independent lens maker to design and produce 35mm SLR cameras, Sigma continues developing and upgrading their line. Replacing the previous SA-5, two new models were recently introduced. The SA-9 and the SA-7 are very similar in...

Several new dye sub printers have been recently announced. These printers employ
thermal transfer technology--they apply heat to a special ink ribbon to produce
colored gas that forms an image on special media. All provide approximately
300dpi resolution, plenty for continuous tone output.



High Speed Pro Printers

Kodak recently introduced two new roll-fed thermal transfer 300dpi Professional
models (with automatic cutters) that generate high quality output for use as
proofs or for immediate sale. Both employ Ektatherm media said to produce prints
that will "last a lifetime". An archival rating has not yet been
published. (They require a computer running Windows 2000 or XP; Mac support
is not available at this time.) The Professional 6850 Digital Photo Printer
is lightning fast. It can deliver 6x8-inch glossies in 15 seconds or 4x6's
in a mere 4 seconds -- hundreds of such photos in a series (without operator
intervention) when high volume is required. (List price $2900; cost per print
not stated; available in August 2005.)

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Nikon D70 Digital SLR Quick Look
· 6.1 megapixel
· $999
· USB 1.1 and 2 compatible
· Feels like a 35mm camera

Further...

Nikon Inc. is recalling EN-EL3 batteries as detailed in a service advisory
(issued Nov. 7. 2005) because of possible overheating and melting. The recall
involves over 700,000 affected battery packs (including 200,000 in the US) that
were packaged with the Nikon D100, D70 and D50 and also sold as accessories
under model number 26265. Replacement will be free of charge. Although only
four incidents of problems have been reported to date, replacement of batteries
with the pertinent lot numbers is strongly recommended. Full specifics are available
at http://www.nikonusa.com/email_images/nikonusa/service_advisory/battery.html
on the Nikon Web site. To receive instructions and materials for the return
of your affected EN-EL3 battery pack, postage prepaid, and your free replacement,
click here http://www.nikondealernet.com/sa2.asp
or call toll free 1-800-645-6678.

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