Sony is redefining what a digital camera should be with the introduction of two W series models: the 5.1-megapixel DSC-W5 and the 7.2-megapixel DSC-W7.
The new models combine the some of the most desirable characteristics of a fully-featured camera in a compact metal-alloy body wrapped around an impressive, 2.5-inch LCD.
Powered by Sony’s Real Imaging Processor™ circuitry, the cameras deliver extraordinary performance, including lightning-fast camera response times and extended battery life with approximately 380 shots between power charges.
Both models come with a full 32 megabytes of internal memory (30 megabytes available). As a result, these cameras are bringing new meaning to the term “worry-free” digital photography. Even if you forget to bring a memory card, or your Memory Stick® media card runs out of capacity, you can still take great pictures thanks to the cameras’ built-in memory.
“Our aim is to make digital photography as exhilarating as possible, yet simple and straight-forward,” said Hiro Takahashi, vice president for Sony Electronics’ digital imaging products. “The new W series embodies this philosophy, offering the most sought-after features in a sophisticated yet efficient package.”
More Bang for the Buck
Available in March for about $450, the DSC-W7 is one of the most competitive 7-megapixel cameras on the market. The camera sports a Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens that fully extends in about a second, as well as large 2.5-inch color LCD screen for optimal picture taking and viewing.
The 5-megapixel DSC-W5 will be available in March for about $350. This camera also features a Carl Zeiss® 3X optical zoom lens and a generous 2.5-inch LCD screen.
Both the Cyber-shot® W5 and W7 cameras shoot full-resolution images in just over one-second intervals. Moreover, they offer MPEG-VX Standard/Fine mode, which enables recording of MPEG video with up to 640×480 pixel resolution at 30 frames per second.
With the optional Cyber-shot Marine Pack (MPK-WA), the Cyber-shot W models become underwater cameras with water resistance to a depth of up to 132 feet. For those who want greater flexibility, the W5 and W7 models can both be used with optional telephoto and wide-angle conversion lenses.
Prints at Your Fingertips
Printing just one or several images is a snap with the new W series because these models are PictBridge™ compatible. Connect the cameras to a PictBridge enabled printer, such as Sony’s new PictureStation™ DPP-FP50, and great prints appear with just a push of the button.
The DSC W-Series has a host of other appealing features, including:
- Five-area Multi-Point Auto Focus: The camera evaluates five separate areas of the frame and intelligently focuses on the subject, displaying the selected focus point.
- Manual Exposure Controls: Flexible exposure control in which shutter speeds from 30-1 1/1000 seconds and apertures of f2.8 – 5.2 can be selected.
- Preset Scene Modes: With seven scene modes, parameters can be matched to the shooting conditions, including: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Snow, Beach and Candle.
Cyber-shot W Series Accessories
New optional accessories will maximize your capturing experience and include:
- Marine Pack Model MPK-WA: Water-proof housing made of high-quality polycarbonate plastic and glass enables basic camera functions at up to a 132 foot depth. The marine pack includes a hand strap and is available next month for about $200.
- Optional Lenses and Adapter: A high-grade telephoto lens (VCL-DH2630), wide angle lens (VCL-DH0730) and lens adapter (VAD-WA) will also be available next month for about $130, $100 and $30 respectively.
Note: A portion of the available storage capacity is used for data management functions. Actual available memory is 30MB.
This article was last modified on January 7, 2023
This article was first published on February 22, 2005
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