The Canon EOS Rebel XSi Digital Camera incorporates a number of high-end functions and technology found in Canons professional SLR models, including an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14-bit A/D conversion, an advanced Live View function, and the proprietary DIGIC III image processor which ensures that the fine details and natural colors of the images are optimally recorded, and also manages the cameras efficient energy consumption and high-speed signal processing performance. Its newly designed 12.2 megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor employs large microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and enhance sensitivity up to ISO 1600, while the 14-bit Analog-to-Digital (A/D) conversion process means the Rebel XSi camera records up to 16,384 colors per channel and allows the camera to produce images with finer and more accurate gradations of tones and colors. The camera also incorporates the Highlight Tone Priority and High-ISO Noise Reduction functions (previously found only on Canons Professional Digital SLRs) and the camera is equipped with Canons Auto Lighting Optimizer technology, which corrects image brightness and contrast automatically to prevent underexposure with backlit scenes.
Description:
The Canon EOS Rebel XSi Digital Camera incorporates a number of high-end functions and technology found in Canons professional SLR models, including an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14-bit A/D conversion, an advanced Live View function, and the proprietary DIGIC III image processor which ensures that the fine details and natural colors of the images are optimally recorded, and also manages the cameras efficient energy consumption and high-speed signal processing performance. Its newly designed 12.2 megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor employs large microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and enhance sensitivity up to ISO 1600, while the 14-bit Analog-to-Digital (A/D) conversion process means the Rebel XSi camera records up to 16,384 colors per channel and allows the camera to produce images with finer and more accurate gradations of tones and colors. The camera also incorporates the Highlight Tone Priority and High-ISO Noise Reduction functions (previously found only on Canons Professional Digital SLRs) and the camera is equipped with Canons Auto Lighting Optimizer technology, which corrects image brightness and contrast automatically to prevent underexposure with backlit scenes.
The Camera utilizes a precise nine-point Autofocus (AF) system featuring a newly developed AF sensor that improves the cameras subject detection capabilities compared to earlier models. The cross-type AF measurement is effective with all EF and EF-S lenses, while providing enhanced precision with lenses having maximum apertures of f/2.8 or faster, and increases the cameras ability to autofocus quickly and accurately. The EOS Rebel XSi is also fast - capable of continuously capturing 3.5 frames per second for bursts of up to 53 images in large/fine JPEG mode and 6 frames in RAW mode. The faster frame rates and finer focusing capabilities of the Rebel XSi together with its impressive image burst rate will help photo enthusiasts capture split second action at just the right moment. Furthermore, the camera is equipped with a host of useful creative controls, including shutter speeds ranging from 1/4000 sec. to 30 sec. plus Bulb, a choice of four metering patterns including 4% spot metering, a wide range of exposure modes from fully automatic to fully manual, depth of field preview, mirror lock and much more.
The large, 3-inch, 230,000 pixel LCD monitor makes it easier for users to review images and scroll through the Rebel XSi cameras menus, and also features a broadened color gamut, seven brightness settings for easy viewing under a variety of shooting conditions and a wide viewing perspective in all directions. Furthermore the EOS Rebel XSi camera features Live View - which allows users to frame shots through the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder - this is particularly useful when shooting at odd angles or in situations when looking through the viewfinder is impractical. The live view feature also adds a "Live Mode" contrast-detection AF function that allows the camera to focus automatically during Live View without lowering the reflex mirror. The Rebel XSi DSLR utilizes Canons EOS Integrated Cleaning system. This involoves a Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit that shakes dust particles off of the low-pass filter in front of the sensor. The dust is then trapped by an adhesive along the base, preventing it from causing further nuisance. The second part of the cleaning system involves post processing with the supplied Digital Photo Professional software. Here the camera maps any spots that may remain on the sensor, saving it as Dust Delete Data and subsequently subtracting dust spots from the final image during post processing.
In a departure from previous EOS Digital Rebel models, which accommodated CF type memory cards, the EOS Rebel XSi camera utilizes SD and SDHC memory cards including those with capacities higher than 2GB, making it the perfect upgrade for users already equipped with SD cards from point-and-shoot model cameras. In addition, it is fully compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses, as well as EX-series Speedlites, an optional Battery Grip, and remote control and viewfinder accessories. In regards to its overall design, the EOS Rebel XSi camera features a substantial yet streamlined profile, with curved edges, contoured surfaces, conveniently placed controls and comfortably constructed rubber grip and thumb rest that all contribute to fatigue-reducing hand fit. The camera body is constructed of a rugged yet lightweight combination of stainless steel and polycarbonate embedded with glass fiber, and the chassis exterior is enrobed in a durable ABS and Polycarbonate resin that is resistant to impact damage.
Features:
• Canon 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor
The CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) sensor of the the EOS Rebel XSi captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range, incorporating many of the same technologies to maximize light gathering efficiency that were first seen with the acclaimed EOS-1D Mark III model. The APS-C size sensor (22.2 x 14.8mm) produces an effective 1.6x increase in the lenss marked focal length when attached.
• DIGIC III Image Processor
Developed to maximize performance between the capture and recording stages of digital photography, the EOS Rebel XSis latest-generation DIGIC III Image Processor works in concert with Canons CMOS sensor to achieve the highest levels of performance possible. The entire electronic system is designed to give the camera its incredible combination of speed and image quality, and digital noise is significantly reduced in shadow areas, while color reproduction is enhanced for superior image quality.
• 14-bit A/D Converter
Formerly a feature only present in top-of-the-line pro digital SLR cameras, the 14-bit A/D conversion in the EOS Rebel XSi provides incredibly smooth transitions from light to dark colors, with far less risk of "banding." Even JPEG files, which are always finished at 8-bits per channel, use the full 14-bit conversion initially to generate the best possible color and tonal detail.
• Highlight Tone Priority
Takes full advantage of the EOS Rebel XSis 14-bit per channel conversion, the Highlight Tone Priority function lets photographers get even better detail in bright highlights, even in high contrast lighting conditions such as mid-day landscape shots or portraits in sunlight. Using the feature does not have any impact on the cameras shooting speed or burst rate.
• Auto Optimization
The EOS Rebel XSis Auto Optimization is an image-quality tool that is available in all shooting modes (including P, Tv, Av, and Manual), and comes to the rescue in tricky lighting conditions by actually lightening dark areas of a scene while ensuring that bright areas maintain tonal detail.
• Speedy, Precise Operation
With instant startup times, speedy autofocus and minimal shutter lag, the EOS Rebel XSi is one of the fastest cameras available today. It provides excellent performance with 3.5 fps continuous shooting, up to 53 full-resolution JPEGs or 6 RAW images in a burst, and reduced shutter lag time.
• High Magnification Viewfinder
The EOS Rebel XSi also has an improved, high magnification viewfinder that provides a larger overall view, and increased brightness and clarity, and all relevant shooting information, including ISO, is displayed right in the viewfinder so its easy to change settings without moving the camera away from the eye. Furthermore, the EOS Rebel XSi has a Display-Off sensor that automatically turns the LCD monitor off whenever the camera is at the photographes eye.
• Large 3.0-inch LCD Monitor
The EOS Rebel XSi has a huge, bright 3.0-inch TFT color LCD monitor with 230,000 pixels and a viewing angle of 170°. Its perfect for Live View composition or viewing camera settings like AF, ISO, Metering, AF Point selection and flash options. And the maximum brightness of the EOS Rebel XSi LCD monitor is about 30% greater than its predecessor, which is a big benefit when youre using the camera in bright sunlight.
• Live View Function
The Live View Function enables you to view your subjects directly on the 3.0-inch LCD monitor, making it easy to grab odd-angle shots and you can magnify any part of the scene 5x or 10x for precise manual focus. You can even choose a grid overlay, perfect for keeping straight lines in your subject straight in your pictures. When using the EOS Rebel XSi in the studio, the Live View Function can be used remotely via a computer through the USB connection so you can view what your camera is about to capture on your PC Monitor.
• Advanced & Adaptable AF System
The EOS Rebel XSi has a high-precision 9-point wide area AF sensor for fast, accurate focus even in dim lighting, and has a number of focus modes, including One-Shot AF, AI Focus AF, AI Servo AF and Manual. In Live View Function, the EOS Rebel XSi has two AF modes: The Quick mode uses the cameras standard 9-point AF system, and Live mode, which is a contrast-based AF system that reads the sharpness of subjects right from the imaging sensor, and can be overridden by pressing the AF mode selection button.
• 35-zone Metering
The EOS Rebel XSi incorporates a 35-zone evaluative metering system with improved white balance that analyzes light based on each zone in the viewing area, thereby enabling the camera to choose the overall best exposure for the entire scene. There is also a spot meter option which reads a tiny area (about 4%) of the picture for extremely precise metering, and a Center-weighted average metering and partial metering for accurate exposure no matter the situation.
• High-Capacity Memory Cards
The EOS Rebel XSi is compatible with popular Secure Digital (SD) and Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) memory cards. These cards are compact, inexpensive and available in increasingly large capacities, making them a perfect complement to the EOS Rebel XSis compact and lightweight body design.
• EOS Integrated Cleaning System
Keep dust off your image sensor and prevent Dust from ruining your images with the advanced Canon EOS Integrated Cleaning System. The EOS Rebel XSi features a Canon-designed Self Cleaning Sensor Unit consisting of a low-pass filter at the front of the sensor that shakes off dust automatically with ultrasonic vibrations, removing dust from the sensor assembly. This Self Cleaning Sensor Unit routine is automatically activated whenever the camera is powered on or off (It can also be manually activated), and a special collar positioned around the sensor collects the loosened dust. Plus there is a special coating on the front surface of the low-pass filter, to prevent dust from sticking to the sensor in the first place. Dust that may still remain on the front of the sensor can also be erased with the included software. A simple test shot of a plain, white object can be taken to produce a Dust Delete Data image. It is then analyzed in-camera to identify the location and size of any remaining dust and this data is added to any subsequent pictures taken. This data is transmitted along with the image, whether JPEG or RAW, and the dust can be either manually or automatically erased in Canons DPP version 3.3 and later software. thereby ensuring the cleanest possible image.
• Picture Style Settings
With Picture Style technology and the EOS Digital Rebel XSi, photographers can recreate characteristics of their favorite films. Color, saturation, sharpness and contrast settings create noticeable variation in the saved image. In addition to six preset Picture Styles (Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful and Monochrome), Canon offers additional downloadable "Picture Style Files", that can be installed into your camera for even more imaging options at your fingertips.
• Compatible with EF & EF-S Lenses
EOS Rebel XSi is compatible with all Canon lenses in the EF and EF-S lineup, ranging from ultra-wide angle to super telephoto lenses. Canon lenses employ advanced optical expertise and micron-precision engineering to deliver unprecedented performance in all facets of the photographic process. Canon lenses employ advanced optical expertise and micron-precision engineering to deliver unprecedented performance in all facets of the photographic process. Aspherical optics and fluorite elements, for example, are featured in the universally acclaimed L Series lenses, and Canons Image Stabilizer technology in select lenses minimizes the effect of camera shake.
• Advanced Flash Photography
The EOS Rebel XSi features the acclaimed E-TTL II flash metering system. Whether using its flush-mounted integral flash or any of the flashes in the EX Speedlite line, E-TTL II provides reliable flash output through numerous exposures. Canons Speedlite 430EX is perfectly suited to the EOS Rebel XSi. It includes an AF-assist Beam, which works in conjunction with the EOS Digital Rebel XTis focusing system, and automatically sends color temperature information to the camera when the flash fires, for more accurate white balance rendition with flash photography.
• Canon EOS Digital Solution Disk (Version 17.0)
The EOS Rebel XSi comes bundled with an updated Canon EOS Digital Solution Disk, which features powerful software programs designed to extend the EOS experience to the computer. Each application is designed to perfect the captured images and streamline the digital workflow.
• Digital Photo Professional 3.3 is an image processing program that enables high-speed RAW image processing, high-speed previewing for real-time image adjustment and support for sRGB, Adobe RGB and Wide Gamut RGB color spaces. Because its CMS (Color Management System) compatible, Digital Photo Professional allows for easy image layout and printing in Adobe RGB in conjunction with Easy-PhotoPrint and PictBridge printers. It also features the Dust Delete Data Detection tool for cleaner images.
• EOS Utility 2.3 (Windows & Macintosh) handles the connection between the camera and computer, whenever theyre connected via USB. It allows remote controlled shooting from the computer, handles downloading of images from the camera to the computer, and allows seamless linking to either Canons ZoomBrowser/ImageBrowser or Digital Photo Professional software once images have been copied to the hard drive. Furthermore, its used to upload settings back into a USB-connected camera.
• ZoomBrowser EX 6.1 for Windows (Vista compatible) and ImageBrowser 6.1 for Mac OS X are the easy, user-friendly options for viewing and editing of JPEG and even RAW image files. Both allow viewing of numerous types of images including finished TIFF and BMP files. Both also have a variety of search options for finding images, allow re-naming of single images or batches of files, and offer a variety of options for printing without using a separate image-editing program.
• RAW Image Task 2.8 (Windows & Macintosh) is an integrated component of ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) or ImageBrowser (Mac) that allows processing of RAW images from EOS cameras with a variety of adjustment possibilities. These options, as well as the overall color, contrast and "look" of RAW Image Task, closely mimic the characteristics of Canons in-camera JPEG processing.
Specifications:
| Image Quality |
| Image Sensor |
APS-C Size (22.2 x 14.8mm) 12.4 Megapixel Single-plate CMOS Sensor with RGB Primary Color Filter & Low-pass Filter |
| Effective Resolution |
12.2 million pixels |
| Color Depth |
42-Bit RGB |
| Color Modes |
Color (sRGB, Adobe RGB) B&W (with color filter or color tone) |
| Image File Formats |
JPEG (Fine, Normal)
RAW (14-bit Canon original)
RAW+JPEG |
| Recorded Resolution |
Large (4272 x 2848)
Medium (3088 x 2056)
Small (2256 x 1504) |
| Video Recording |
No |
| Audio Recording |
No |
| Optics |
| Lens Mount |
Canon EF mount |
| Focal Length Multiplier |
1.6x |
| Optical Image Stabilization |
Compatible with Canon IS Lenses |
| Focus Control |
| Focus Type |
TTL secondary image-registration, phase detection (9 AF points) with AF-assist Lamp (uses Built-in flash) |
| Focus Modes |
One-Shot AF, AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focusing (MF) |
| Exposure Control |
| Sensitivity |
Basic Zone modes: ISO 100-800 (set automatically)
Creative Zone modes: ISO 100-1600 (in 1-stop increments) |
| Shutter Type |
Electronically-controlled, focal-plane shutter |
| Shutter Speed |
30 - 1/4000 second
Bulb (up to 30 seconds) |
| Mirror Lock-Up |
Yes |
| Exposure Metering |
35-zone TTL full-aperture metering (Evaluative, Partial, Spot, Center-weighted average) with EV 1-20 Metering Range (at 73°F/23°C with EF50mm f/1.4 USM lens, ISO 100) |
| Exposure Modes |
Program AE (Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Flash Off, Program), shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, depth-of-field AE, manual exposure, E-TTL II autoflash, Exposure Compensation (±2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments), AEB (±2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments), AE Lock |
| White Balance Modes |
Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, White Fluorescent Light, Flash, Custom, White balance correction (±9 stops in full-stop increments, White balance bracketing (±3 stops in full-stop increments - Blue/amber or magenta/green direction possible) |
| Scene Modes |
Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait |
| Flash |
| Built-in Flash |
Yes (Auto pop-up flash) |
| Effective Flash Range |
43 (13m) @ ISO 100 |
| External Flash Connection |
TTL Hot Shoe |
| External Flash Control |
E-TTL II autoflash with EX Series Speedlites |
| Maximum Flash Synchronization Speed |
1/200 second |
| Performance |
| Start-Up Time |
0.2 seconds |
| Shutter Lag |
0.055 seconds |
| Time Between Shots |
Less than 1 second (single mode) |
| Burst Capability |
3.5 fps up to 53 frames in JPEG |
| Self Timer |
10 seconds, 2 seconds, 10-seconds delay plus continuous shooting |
| Interval Recording |
No (possible with tethered operation) |
| Date & Time Stamp |
No (simultaneous recording onto image data) |
| Memory & Power |
| Built-in Memory |
No |
| Compatible Memory Cards |
Secure Digital (SD) card
Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) card |
| File Size |
|
RAW |
Fine |
Normal |
| Large |
15.3MB |
4.3MB |
2.2MB |
| Medium |
- |
2.5MB |
1.3MB |
| Small |
- |
1.6MB |
0.8MB | |
| Battery Type |
LP-E5 Battery Pack
AA-size batteries can be used with optional BG-E5 Battery Grip |
| Power Adapter |
ACK-E5 AC Adapter Kit (optional) |
| Input/Output |
| Computer Interface |
USB 2.0 High Speed |
| Direct Print Capable |
Yes (PictBridge) |
| Remote Control |
RS-60E3 Remote Switch (optional)
RC-1/RC-5 Remote Controller (optional) |
| Video Output |
NTSC & PAL |
| System & Software Requirements |
Windows System
- 300 MHz Pentium Processor or better
- Windows 2000, XP, Vista
- 256MB RAM
- USB port
- Display with 800 x 600 dots, High Color (16-bit)
- CD-ROM drive required for software installation
Macintosh System
- Power PC Processor
- Mac OS X (10.2 or later)
- 256MB RAM
- Built-in USB Port
- Display with 800 x 600 dots, 32,000 colors
- CD-ROM drive required for software installation
|
| Display |
| Viewfinder |
Eye-level pentamirror with Dioptric Adjustment Correction |
| Viewfinder Info |
AF information (AF points, focus confirmation light), exposure information (shutter speed, aperture, AE lock, exposure level, ISO speed, exposure warning), flash information (flash ready, high-speed sync, FE lock, flash exposure compensation), monochrome shooting, white balance correction, maximum burst, SD memory card information |
| Depth-of-Field Preview |
Yes |
| LCD Display |
3.0" TFT Color LCD (230,000 pixels) wit Brightness Control (7-steps) |
| Information Display |
Aperture value, AF point selection, CF card writing status, Exposure level indicator, Exposure compensation amount, AEB level, Drive mode, Self-timer/Remote control, Image-Recording quality, Shots remaining, Flash mode, ISO speed, White balance, Battery level, Shutter speed, Date/time, battery level warning |
| Language Options |
English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Portuguese, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Greek, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Polish, Hungarian, Czech |
| Playback Options |
Single image, Single image + Image-recording quality, shooting information, histogram, 4- or 9-image index, magnified view (approx. 1.5x-10x), rotated image, image jump (by 1/10/100 images, or shooting date), Highlight Alert (Overexposed highlights blink) |
| Physical |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) |
3.8 x 5.1 x 2.4" (98 x 129 x 62 mm) body only |
| Weight |
16.8 oz. (475g) body only |
Extended Warranties
Warranty Info
Understanding Refurbished Products
What exactly does Refurbished mean?
Refurbished according to the dictionary means: To make clean, bright, or fresh again; renovate.
Refurbished electronics are products returned by customers for multiple reasons. After it is returned, it is sent back to the manufacturer and it is restored back to its original state. Following it’s restoration it goes through extensive testing then sent back to us in a new box. In most cases, the box is simple and not the original box. This does not mean that the product is of any difference then the original manufacturer box that it came in. Actually, buying refurbished products is better than buying a new product because it is much cheaper and still comes with some kind of warranty. Usually a 90-day one backs it, but that depends on the manufacturer
What is refurbished when it comes to cameras and camcorders?
If you want a digital camera without paying top price, consider a refurbished model. Their prices are often substantially lower than the same model purchased brand new. Refurbished cameras are those returned by a purchaser to a store or manufacturer that are retested and recertified, and then resold. Consumer protection laws prohibit them for being sold again as new. In many cases, the returned cameras were unused or hardly used at all. Refurbished models should come with all the supplies and accessories listed on the carton such as wrist strap, USB interface and AV cables, CD-ROM containing software and drivers, and a manual. Some also included a starter memory card, proprietary battery and charger. When buying a refurbished digital camera, make sure it is "factory" refurbished. Also make sure it has a parts and labor warranty, which can range anywhere from 90 days to up to a full year
What makes a “Refurbished" or "Reconditioned” item such an excellent purchase?
- Refurbished or reconditioned products maintain high quality standards.
- Each item is checked at least twice for proper working condition and quality. In fact, refurbished or reconditioned goods have a very low (2-percent) rate of return.
- The price you pay for a refurbished or reconditioned item is much lower than retail price.
- We guarantee every refurbished or reconditioned item you purchase for 90 Days.
We also offer Extended Platinum Product Protection Plans at a great rate.
Why would a product become refurbished?
- A Customer Return - Most major retailers have a 30-day return policy for their products and many consumers, for whatever reason, return products within that time period. Most of the time if there is nothing wrong with the product, a retailer will just reduce the price and resell it as an open box special - still having the new product warranty. However, if there is some sort of defect present in the product, many retailers return the product to the manufacturer were it is inspected and corrected, and then specially repackaged for sale as a refurbished item. These will typically be sold through outlets or through the largest of the manufacturer's resellers
- Shipping Damage - Many product packages can be damaged in shipping, whether due to mishandling, the elements, or other factors. In most cases the product in the box may be in perfect condition, after all manufacturers spend vast sums of money on packaging to protect their product during shipping. However, the retailer has the option to return the damaged boxes to the manufacturer. The manufacturer, then, inspects the products and repackages them for sale. But since they were returned, they cannot be sold as new products, so they are relabeled as refurbished units.
- Cosmetic Scratch or Dent - Sometimes, for a variety of reasons, a product may have a scratch, dent, or other form of cosmetic damage that does not affect the performance of the unit, but it does detract from the "newness" of the product. If the cosmetic defect occurred at the manufacturer, there are two options: sell the unit with its cosmetic damage visible or fix the damage by placing the internal components into a new cabinet or casing. Either way, the product qualifies as refurbished. Plus it has the added bonus that the internal mechanisms that were unaffected by the cosmetic damaged are still checked once again.
- Demonstration Units - At the retail store level, most retailers sell their old demos off the floor, some manufacturers will take them back, inspect and/or repair them, and send them back out as refurbished units for sale (though this is less common). This may also apply to demo units used by the manufacturer at trade shows, returned by product reviewers, and internal office use. All of these are considered refurbished units.
- Production Defect - In any assembly line production process, a specific component can show up as defective because a faulty processing chip, power supply, disc loading mechanism, or other factor. Most of the time, this is caught before the product leaves the factory, however, defects can show up after the product hits store shelves. As a result of customer returns, inoperative demos, and excessive product breakdowns within the warranty period of a specific element in the product, a manufacturer may "recall" unsold products from a specific batch or production run that either exhibits the same defect, or is expected to show this issue. When this occurs, the manufacturer can repair or upgrade all the defective and non-defective recalled units, and send them back out to retailers as refurbished units for sale.
- Opened Box - Some times, a customer asks to see what is inside, then decides not to buy. Realistically, there is no issue here other than the box was opened and was sent back to the manufacturer for repacking (or repacked by the retailer), the product can be considered refurbished (though not always - it depends on the degree of unpacking that occurred). This is because it required "factory" repacking, even though no refurbishing has occurred.
- Overstock - If a retailer has an overstock of a particular item they simply reduce the price and put the item on sale or clearance. However, sometimes, when a manufacturer introduces a new model, it will "collect" the remaining stock of the older models still on store shelves and redistribute them to specific retailers for quick sale. In this case, the item can be sold either as "a special purchase" or can be labeled as refurbished.
What This Means For The Consumer
Basically, when an electronic product is shipped back to the manufacturer, for whatever reason, it is inspected, restored to original specification (if needed), tested and/or repackaged for resale, the item can no longer be sold as "new", but can only be sold as "refurbished".
It is not always clear what the exact origin or condition of a refurbished product is. It is impossible for the consumer to know what the reason is for the "refurbished" designation for a specific product. Only the factory, or refurbishing center has knowledge of this issue or reason for the designation.
Therefore, taking all of the above possibilities into consideration, here are several questions you need to ask when shopping for a refurbished product.
- Is the refurbished unit being sold by a retailer that is also authorized to sell new products? This means that you can have confidence in that reseller.
- Does the refurbished unit have a U.S. warranty? It is always important to read the warranty carefully to avoid misunderstandings.
- Does the retailer offer a return or exchange policy for the refurbished unit? Legitimate resellers stand behind their products, whether they are new or refurbished.
- Does the retailer offer an extended service plan for the item? This doesn't mean you have to buy an extended warranty -- but whether or not they offer one indicates their degree of support for the product.
If the answers to all of these questions are positive, purchasing a refurbished product can be a very smart move. Although some refurbished products may be repaired or serviced units, it is very possible that the product merely had a minor defect during its initial production run (such as a series of defective chips, etc...) or subject to an earlier recall. However, the manufacturer can go back, repair the defect(s) and offer the units to retailers as "refurbs".
In Summary
Buying a refurbished item is a great way to get a great buy on an outstanding product at a bargain price. There is no reason the label "refurbished" should cause you to hesitate. Remember, the unit has been given more attention than a traditional "new" product. And the rule of thumb for electronics is: if they run, they will likely run forever!
The most important consideration is simply that the retailer backs up the product with some sort of return policy and warranty to the extent that you feel comfortable making the purchase.
Untitled Document
When purchasing a digital camera, you must decide on the type of camera that is suitable for how you are using it, the life of the battery, how much memory is required, which type of lenses are needed, and etc. This guide will assist you in buying a digital camera and the necessary accessories.
Types of Cameras:
There are many different types of cameras. Depending on how often and for what purpose you are using the camera, there is a camera out there for all users.
Starter Cameras:
For users who are looking to start digital photography, but don’t want to spend a lot of money, this is the type of camera for you. A decent point-and-shoot camera should be suitable for 4”x6” photo prints.
Amateur Cameras:
For users that are knowledgeable about digital photography or want a high-quality camera to learn with, this category is best for you. These cameras offer ease of use with very high specification features, but not a large range of controls that you can get from professional cameras. Typically, you can make up to 11”x17” photo prints with these cameras.
Professional Cameras:
These cameras are intended for professionals to use. The lower-end professional cameras have a similar resolution to some high-end amateur cameras. The main difference is that, they have more elaborate setting control, better lenses, and better flash options. Most of the time, you can use lenses from your older SLR (Single Lens Reflex) film cameras. The resolution on these cameras could exceed 21 megapixels (21 million pixels). This type of camera is intended to produce very high quality prints for newspapers, magazines, and books, or for users who like to have control over how their pictures will look.
Power Conservation Tips:
Turn off the LCD:
When you are not using it, turn the LCD off. If you are low on power and want to make some more pictures, turn the LCD off and use the viewfinder instead. Doing so will increase the battery life of the camera, as LCD screens will eat up a lot of power.
Stop the Zoom:
Some cameras automatically release the lens when you turn the camera on. Unfortunately, it drains power significantly. To prevent this from happening you can change the settings to the sleep mode.
Turn off the Flash:
If you think the lighting is adequate for pictures, turn off the flash. Flashes will consume a large amount of energy, which is wasted if not in use.
Plug it in:
Some cameras have power adapter which allows you to plug in your camera to a wall socket. This will allow you to save your battery power when you are using the camera near a power socket.
Accessories to boost your Digital Experience:
Batteries:
Batteries are an important resource to digital cameras because if there is no power left, you can miss a special moment. If your camera uses disposable alkaline batteries, you should get a set of rechargeable batteries, thus saving you a lot of money in the long run, compared to purchasing new disposable batteries each time. For cameras that use Lithium Ion, it is suggested to purchase a backup battery for instances when you will be away from home for a period longer than 2 hours.
Memory Cards:
Memory card are equivalent to film in digital cameras. Each type of camera will use a different type of card, so make sure to check which card is compatible with your camera. Secure Digital (SD) is currently the most popular because it has become relatively cheap. Capacities of up to 16GB are currently available. Remember, you can never have too much memory, so invest in a larger capacity memory card when you purchase your digital camera. Here is a chart to help you make a decision on the memory card size right for yourself.
Tripods/Monopods:
If you have problems taking sharp, clear images, it could be because your hands were shaking. In order to solve the problem, you can get a tripod or monopod. It is important to keep the cameras steady if you want perfect pictures. A tripod is also important when you want to tweak the settings and take long exposure shots.
Card Readers:
Card readers are essential for any serious digital photographer. Instead of transferring photos directly from the camera, you can use a card reader to transfer them from your memory card straight to your computer. Doing so will conserve the camera’s batteries when transferring pictures.
Cases and Bags:
While digital cameras may be pricey, they can still break if dropped, so be sure to you protect your investment with either a case or bag. Cases make it safer and easier to carry. Cases can also protect your camera from sand, dust, dirt, and water. They are available in all types of sizes and styles. You can even purchase an Underwater Housing Case, allowing you to use your digital camera in water. These cases are more expensive and are only designed for some models. The cases usually come with cameras straps to put the camera around your neck or wrist. This provides an extra layer of protection for your camera, by preventing it from falling to the ground.
Lenses and Flash:
The quality of your photos depends on the quality of your lens. Flashes can help improve the brightness of your pictures. On most cameras, the lenses are built onto the camera, so you don’t have any upgradeability of the lens. But, if you own an SLR camera, you can replace the lens with a higher quality one, with better zoom or a different focal length. Flashes assist you when you are taking photos in low light settings. Most digital cameras have an internal flash that works fine for normal use, but you might want more light for the best possible results.
Important Camera Features:
Resolution:
A photograph is measured in the number of pixels in the picture. A pixel is a tiny dot of color. In digital photography, quality of the photo is megapixels. One-megapixel is the same as one million pixels. Nowadays, most cameras have more than 6 Megapixels, which is more than sufficient for a beginner’s camera.
Zoom:
Zoom is an important factor because it helps you get closer to the subject. There are two types of zoom available in digital cameras, digital and optical zoom. Digital zoom is a way of magnifying the picture by processing techniques. Unfortunately, digital zoom lowers the quality of the image a little. Optical zoom is where the magnification is done by using the camera’s lens. It would be ideal to use the Optical zoom over digital zoom because of the quality difference.
