Digital Camera News, 2/17/08

Nikon posts new D300 firmware version

Nikon has released firmware version 1.02 for its D300 digital SLR. Per the announcement, the latest version corrects "an issue that, in rare cases, caused vertical bands (lines) to appear in images captured at shutter speeds slower than 8s."

To download the updated firmware using either a PC or Macintosh, visit the link to Nikon's site here.

Sigma SD14 firmware update announced

Firmware version 1.06 for Sigma's SD14 has been released on the manufacturer's website. The update improves the accuracy of the camera's white balance system, fixes an image recorded date issue, and makes some changes to the camera's image review and shutter release button functionalities.

The firmware update may be found on Sigma's website; the link is here.

New wide-angle, telephoto four-thirds system lenses announced

Speaking of Sigma, the company is now providing those of you with four-thirds format DSLRs (including popular models from Olympus and Panasonic) with another option for extreme wide-angle glass. The Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM, currently available in other standard mounts, provides a sufficiently wide (94.5 degrees) angle of view on four-thirds cameras.

With an hyper-sonic motor (HSM internal focusing system, the new lens, which provides an equivalent range of 20-40mm, promises fast, near-silent focusing, with a minimum focusing distance of just under 10 inches at all focal lengths.

At the other end of the range, the 70-200mm f/2.8 II EX DG HSM functions like a 140-400mm long telephoto unit on a four-thirds camera. Designed with multiple SLD and ELD lens elements to correct for optical faults, the 70-200mm's glass is also coated to reduce flare and ghosting.

Incorporating internal focusing and zooming systems, the external length of the lens does not change when the focal length or focus is adjusted. As with the 10-20mm, the new telephoto model uses an HSM for quiet, quick auto-focus performance.

Both lenses should be available in April. No word yet on US street pricing.