Re: Stereo's Future

[P3D John Ohrt <johrt@xxxxxxx>]

P3D Michael Kersenbrock wrote:

> Add that it has to store data internally as well.  *Requiring* a cord
> to a computer won't make aunt Mildred happy taking photos at the Zoo.
>

eg. Agfa e307 - stores 36 frames at 640x480x16M

> Do you *really* think someone is coming out with that camera for a couple
> hundred dollars (maximum retail price) anytime soon for the  mass
> consumer market?  That's the current competition.

eg Agfa e307 - $300 US and dropping

> And for a 3D version, the viewing system still is a problem that
> has to be tackled either first or at the same time.   As I said in
> another posting, I think the camera is the "easy part" of the
> system design.  Efforts using lenticular technology had the
> right goal, but IMO falls short of the price/speed/quality that's
> needed for mass consumer market success.

The viewing system is essentially solved, a 3d video card and $100 or so
glasses. They are virtually all 640x480 capable of 3D imaging.

I'm not saying the quality is great, but good enough for some tasks.  For
example 640x480 is a handy size for many web apps and good enough (my opinion)
to learn a lot about composition.

For what it is worth, many consider the AGFA e307 the steal on the market.
Meets or exceeds the competition in the 640x480x16M class, 36 frames of large
format storage, very easy on batteries, closeup capable below 12 inches, nice
accompanying software and a price far below competiton with comparable
resolution.

For stereo you could go to mirrors, or sliding or twin cameras as the money
permits.

Dirt cheap no!  But you won't believe what a similar capability cost a year
ago!  This is a highly competitive market and players like AGFA and KODAK
definitely know this is a survive or die market and a high volume market.
Remember that APS uses the same format as HDTV, and so will every HDTV CCD
camera.  That is going to make that format of CCD very cheap.  APS is merely a
place holder for all digital technology, and KODAK, FUJI etc admitted that from
the start.

I wouldn't be surprised to see APS go head to head with a comparable or superior
digital equivalent within two years!  It is merely a question of volume.  And to
everyone's surprise, adequate volume is here now to drive very competitive
pricing.

Bear in mind that a digital camera is a great learning tool.  There are no film
or development charge equivalents unless you really want hardcopy.  Even those
costs are falling like a rock!

A salesman can make a very good argument for paying a significant premium for
digital technology.

Regards,

--

John Ohrt * Toronto * ON * Canada





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