Incorporating a Leica 3x optical zoom lens and a 4-megapixel resolution, the Panasonic DMC-LC70 offers professional optics in a classically styled camera at an affordable price. The DMC-LC70 also features several automated scene modes and video capture with sound. It is considerably more compact and 2 ounces lighter than its predecessor, the Lumix DMC-LC43.

Optics and Resolution
The DMC-LC70 captures 4-megapixel images up to 2304 x 1728 pixels for poster-size print enlargements. Other resolution modes include 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960, and 640 x 480. The 3x optical zoom is joined by a 3x digital zoom for a 9x total zoom.

Like all Panasonic Lumix digital cameras, the DMC-LC70 is equipped with a lens made by Leica, manufacturer of precision optical technologies. The top compact lens in the world-renowned Leica family, the DC Vario-Elmarit lens combines comfortably small size with superb image rendering. Its features include:

• Seven elements in six groups
• 3x zoom lens system is equivalent to a 35mm to 105mm lens
• Three aspherical lenses
• F2.8-F4.9 brightness
• Focal distance of 5.8mm to 17.4mm
• Multi-coating technology minimizes ghosting caused by excessive light
• Fast shutter speeds

Movie Mode
In addition to taking still photos, the DMC-LC70 can also record 320 x 240 movie clips at 10 frames per second with audio. Your video length is limited only by the size of your memory card.

More Features
The Mega Burst Imaging function allows you to take consecutive pictures at an incredible quick rate, making it perfect for capturing fast-moving objects in high resolution. The DMC-LC70 captures up to 8 consecutive images in standard mode (at either 3.5 or 2 frames per second) or 5 images in fine mode. You can then view your shots on the camera's LCD screen to choose the shot you want and delete the rest.

The Lumix DMC-LC70 features a Mode Dial that gives you a variety of settings to choose from to help give you the best shot possible based on your shooting environment. Modes include simple, normal picture, economy, macro, portrait, landscape, night portrait, and moving image.

The Venus Engine LSI generates the luminance signal of the primary color CCD using all three colors (red, green, blue) for improved diagonal image resolution, compared to conventional CCDs that use only one color (green) to do so, resulting in rich, expressive images. This LSI also handles image processing, LCD functions, and writing to the memory card concurrently, for an overall quick camera response.

Other features include:

• 1.5-inch LCD screen (114k pixels) and optical viewfinder
• Built-in flash with auto, red-eye reduction, slow synchro, and forced on/off modes
• ISO sensitivity: Auto, 50, 100, 200, and 400
• White balance modes: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Halogen, and White Set
• Self timer of 10 and 2 seconds

Storage and Transfer
Images can be stored on the included 16 MB Secure Digital memory card; the DMC-LC70 is also compatible with MultiMedia (MMC) cards. Images can be downloaded to either a Mac or PC via ultra-fast USB 1.1, which means it can be connected to any USB-compatible Windows Me/2000/XP and Mac OS 8.6 or later computer without installing any software.

Power and Size
The camera is powered by 2 AA batteries (alkalines included, rechargeable NiMH batteries recommended). Using alkaline batteries, you should expect the battery to capture approximately 200 shots with the LCD on. It measures 3.44 by 2.57 by 1.39 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 5.6 ounces (excluding batteries).

What's in the Box
This package includes the Lumix DMC-LC70 digital camera, 16 MB Secure Digital card, 2 AA batteries, USB and A/V cables, and strap. The CD-ROM includes SD Viewer for DSC and Ulead Photo Explorer software.