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Through Panasonic's prism

Through Panasonic's prism

Lori Grunin Senior Editor / Advice
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Expertise Photography, PCs and laptops, gaming and gaming accessories
Lori Grunin
PMA 2006 - CNET covers the show
We've seen zoom lenses that extend internally before. But now Panasonic takes the concept to the 10th degree--or to 10X zoom, more specifically. To squeeze the long zoom into a relatively compact design, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 uses a prism to refract the incoming light sideways toward the sensor, which is positioned near the grip. It's a pretty nifty concept.

The camera also integrates an updated focusing system for faster operation--yay--and the latest Venus III image processor, which ostensibly provides it with faster shooting speeds and longer battery life. That's with Oxyrides, right?