Canon Launches Two New Low-priced 8mm Camcorders to Capture and Preserve Cherished Moments.

Business/Technology Editors

LAKE SUCCESS, NY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 16, 2000

Camcorders Offer Unprecedented Value For New Video Makers

Canon U.S.A., Inc., the company whose imaging solutions give people KNOW HOW, today introduced the ES410V and the ES8100V, two new easy-to-use 8mm camcorders that offer a considerable number of features at a low cost.

The low-priced camcorders will allow consumers to capture and preserve cherished moments economically this spring and summer. The low price also will be attractive to those thinking of gifts for Mother's Day, Father's Day, graduations and bridal showers in the months ahead. The camcorders will be available at authorized Canon dealers beginning late April 2000.

The ES410V (manufacturer's suggested retail price $499) and ES8100V (manufacturer's suggested retail price $549) are similar camcorders, with one difference - the ES8100V is a Hi8 camcorder that provides sharper detail and greater clarity than the ES410V. Both feature color LCD viewscreens, powerful 22x optical/500x digital zoom capabilities and image stabilization that instantly corrects camera shake.

"Canon continues to provide consumers with significant camcorder options," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, vice president and general manager, Photographic Products Group, Canon U.S.A. "Our knowledge and expertise in lens design and camcorder manufacturing makes it easy for Canon to combine unrivaled features and retail prices that are highly attractive to consumers. "

22x Optical/500x Digital Zoom - Canon's new combination of optical and digital zoom provides users with access to subjects at the greatest range of distances. The lens can focus up to 3/8-inch at wide angle, and capture fine detail such as the glistening of jewelry, the etched lines of coins and the delicate texture of flower petals. The 22x optical and 500x extended magnification digital zoom capture subject images at great distances, including wildlife in the woods, performers on stage and athletes in the outfield.

Image Stabilization - The ES410V and ES8100V employ a high quality image stabilization system to steady the recorded image during hand-held operation, or from a moving vehicle and when shooting at full telephoto zoom.

Color LCD Viewscreen - The 2.5-inch LCD viewscreen allows for easy shooting of a colorful, well-composed video. Low and high angle shots (with the capability to include the videographer in the shot) are easy to compose with the 180-degree rotating screen, which also can be used for playback.

FlexiZone Auto Focus/Auto Exposure - Since the subject often moves from the center of the screen, Canon developed the exclusive FlexiZone AF/AE. By using the FlexiZone controller to align the "FlexiZone" in the viewfinder with the subject, shots achieve perfect focus and exposure anywhere within the frame.

Programmed Auto Exposure - Point-and-shoot simplicity is easily achieved, even in challenging shooting situations, by selecting one of four pre-programmed Auto Exposure Modes (Sports, Portrait, Spotlight, and Sand and Snow). Both models include Canon's fully automatic Easy Green Mode, suitable for most indoor/outdoor shooting situations.

Long Time Recording - Record up to 14 continuous hours (with viewfinder use) when using two BP-945 optional battery packs attached to the CH-910 Dual Batter Charger/Holder.

Tape Analyzing System (TAS) - Canon utilizes this new electronic method of achieving greater detail and higher signal to noise ratio. The camcorder determines the type of tape used and adjusts characteristics of the video signal to ensure maximum signal output during playback.

Digital Effects -- Image variety during recording is possible by adding 16:9 Wide Screen, Negative Conversation, Mirror, Mosaic, or Art effects at the touch of a button. During playback, 16:9 Wide Screen, Art, or Sepia effects can be used.

Digital Faders - Easy to use by touching a button, one of six faders (White, Horizontal Wipe, Mosaic, Art, Zoom, or Black and White) can be added during recording.

Preset Titler Function - By selecting one of five preset titles (including "Happy Birthday") to match the occasion, this graphic capability is immediately superimposed onto the shot. Original titles also can be entered. Seven colors are available.

Time Base Corrector - The video signal is digitally processed for a more stable picture, ensuring better playback while searching, viewing and copying.

Additional features include lithium ion battery power, built-in charge function, date search, recording search and review, clear search, backlight compensations, remote control, microphone terminal and flying erase head.

Both camcorders weigh less than two pounds. Dimensions are 4 1/2 x 4 1/4 x 7 7/8 inches. Contents of the ES410V and ES8100V include:

- ES410V or ES8100V camcorder

- BP-915 Battery Pack

- CA-550 Compact Power Adapter

- SS-81 Shoulder Strap

- C-150 AV Cable

- WL-84 Wireless Controller

Canon U.S.A., Inc. is an industry leader in professional and consumer imaging solutions and, through its parent company, Canon Inc., is a top patent-holder of imaging technologies. The company's comprehensive product line includes networked multifunction devices; digital and analog copiers (color and black and white); printers, scanners, image filing systems, and facsimile machines; camcorders, cameras and lenses; and semiconductor, broadcast and medical equipment. Canon employs 12,000 people at more than 30 facilities throughout North, Central and South American and the Caribbean.

All referenced product names are trademarks of their respective owners.

Canon U.S.A. Web site: http://www.usa.canon.com