> > I N D U S T R Y N E W S
INTERVIEW
“REDUCTION MEANS PERFECTION”
More than two years ago Mr Wueller, please explain especially to compact cameras
Image Engineering started why you believe that because for single-lens refl ex
an initiative called “6 too many pixels lead to models the sensors are generally
Megapixel”. The driving reduced image quality. larger. Therefore there is a
force behind this initiative Dietmar Wueller: ”This can larger area for the image points.
was the discovery by a be easily explained. On the However, even with SLR cameras
world-wide leading test one hand sensors don’t become the upper limit can be reached,
lab that increasing the larger with an increase in the where image quality deteriorates
number of pixels to the number of image points; the with more image points.”
camera sensor’s limits area remains the same, but is What has been your
decreases the image divided up more. experience so far on
quality – which is in direct This means there is less light 6mpixel.org? What kind of
contrast to the opinion of available per pixel; this is a a cross section of opinions
the general public that disadvantage that must be has there been?
“the more pixels, the electronically compensated for DW: ”We have received
better”. The initiative is and which in turn deteriorates consistent agreement from
now showing an obvious image quality. In addition, users from all parts of the improved quality in the
effect: numerous current pixels today are so small world. Above all, many users production of sensors?
digital camera models, that we reach the objective’s have confi rmed, through their DW: ”That is correct, in
such as the Lumix TZ7, physical limits in detail own experience, that compact principle: The sensor size is
Fujifi lm F70 or Canon G11 reproduction.” cameras with a high number easily increased which means a
have a reduced number Does this rule also apply of Megapixels have quality larger area and thus more room
of image points and are to SLR cameras or only for problems.” for more image points without
delivering customers compact models? Which other advantages leading to the aforementioned
fantastic images. DW: ”This problem applies are provided through a problems concerning image
reduction in resolution? quality. In addition, production
DW: ”A reduced, optimal methods have actually
pixel number provides a better improved. That is why one can
reproduction, in relation to say today that 8 or even 10
universal charger
the fi ner details as well as a Megapixels for a sensor size of
reduced dysfunction caused 1:1.8, which is used in many
by bad light proportion. In compact cameras, is a good
addition, cameras with a lower and reasonable value.”
number of Megapixels can What is the future for “6
deal with higher contrasts and Megapixel”?
have a larger so-called dynamic What else needs to be
camcorders digital perimeter.” done?
cameras
Are there any DW: ”Although a lot has
recommendations for the been accomplished, the pixel
mobile AA/AAA camera manufacturers? race is not over yet. Currently
phones Batteries
DW: ”In principle there are such we need to concentrate on
one charger
recommendations, which are mobile phones, where as many
also published on our internet Megapixels as possible leads to
for all
site. confusing statements concerning
Generally, the size of an the image quality.
individual image point should Because of their very small
be more than 3µ. This means a sensors, a high pixel number
maximum image point number makes no sense.
Charges most Charges 2 Includes adapter Charges Includes 12V
digital camera, AA / AAA NiCd / plugs for batteries from adapter for use
camcorder & NiMH batteries charging in UK, 30 minutes in vehicles
of 37 Megapixels for an APS-C In addition to the pixel number,
Mobile phone Europe & USA
batteries from sensor, 27 Megapixels for a there are still many areas in
3.6 - 7.4 volts
4/3 sensor and 2.7 Megapixels digital photography which
•
Compact & lightweight
for a 1:2.5 sensor.” need explanation. We will
•
LED status indicator Your initiative started in devote ourselves in the future
•
Overcharge & timer protection
•
2008 with the statement to these subjects as well as
Faulty battery detection
•
Automatic battery type & voltage detection
that 6 million image points delayed trigger or noise created
are suffi cient for optimal by bad light ratios and we
www.camlink.eu.com
image quality. Has this will contribute to informing
now increased through consumers.
PIXEL 04
Pixel March08a.indd 4 02/03/2010 14:28
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