Panasonic Introduces Entry-Level Rugged Digital Camera That is Waterproof, Shockproof and Dustproof

SECAUCUS, N.J., Jan. 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic today announced the Panasonic LUMIX TS20 digital camera, which features a rugged design allowing for it to be waterproof*(1) to approximately 16 feet (5 meters), shockproof*(2) to approximately 5 feet (1.5 meters), dustproof*(1)  and freezeproof to temperatures as low as 14 degrees F. The LUMIX TS20 (16.1-megapixel) features a flat and slim profile with a 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens and a 4x optical zoom (35mm equivalent: 25-100mm).  Even more, the LUMIX TS20's zoom extends to 8x equivalent with the Intelligent Zoom function, made possible by Panasonic's Intelligent Resolution technology.

The LUMIX TS20 can shoot 720p High Definition video in the MP4 format and the 4x optical zoom is available during video recording – making this digital camera a highly-capable model for shooting video. Plus, with a dedicated video record button, switching between still photos and videos is quick and seamless.  The new LUMIX TS20 records dynamic HD video in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 30p MP4 format, which makes it easy for editing or sharing the videos. The recorded videos can be also directly uploaded to YouTube when the included software is installed. The LUMIX TS20 also features a 2.7-inch Intelligent LCD with High Angle mode.

"The Panasonic LUMIX TS20 is an affordable rugged digital camera ideal for any user who is looking for a slim, durable digital camera that can take high quality photos and HD videos in a variety of situations, such as at a beach, hiking, snowboarding and more," said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America. "Thanks to its waterproof, shockproof and dustproof features, the TS20 is capable of capturing photos and videos that not many digital cameras can, and with iA, it's also incredibly easy and intuitive to use."

The LUMIX TS20 includes Panasonic's popular iA (Intelligent Auto) mode – a suite of technologies that are automatically engaged without the use of any extra settings to allow the camera to select the most appropriate settings to take high-quality photos.  Panasonic's iA features included in the LUMIX TS20 are MEGA O.I.S., AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Recognition, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure.

In addition to being easy to use, The LUMIX TS20 also includes features that increase the photographic fun and creativity of the user.  The Miniature Effect mode, in which the peripheries are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized, makes the photo look like a diorama. For videos recorded in this mode*(3) playback is 10x fast forward, making it comical and amusing to watch. Panorama Shot makes it is possible to shoot a maximum 360-degree of horizontal / vertical panoramic image by taking consecutive shots and overlaying the photos.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TS20 will be available in late-February 2012 in orange, blue, black and red models for a suggested retail price of $179.99.  For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 This About Waterproof / Dustproof performance of the camera

This camera's waterproof/dustproof rating complies with the "IPX8" and "IP6X" ratings. Provided the care and maintenance guidelines described in this document are strictly followed, this camera can operate underwater, to a depth not exceeding 5 m (16 feet) for a time not exceeding 60 minutes.  This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions. The camera can be used underwater for specified time in specified pressure in accordance with the handling method established by Panasonic.

Handling of the camera

• Waterproofing is not guaranteed if the unit is subject to an impact as a result of being hit or dropped etc. If an impact to the camera occurs, it should be inspected (subject to a fee) by a Panasonic's Service Centre to verify that the waterproofing is still effective.
• When the camera is splashed with detergent, soap, hot spring, bath additive, sun oil, sun screen, chemicals, etc., wipe it off immediately.
• Waterproof function of the camera is for sea water and fresh water only.
• Any malfunction caused by customer misuse, or mishandling will not be covered by the warranty.
• The inside of this unit is not waterproof. Water leakage will cause malfunction.
• Supplied accessories are not waterproof (excluding strap).
• Card and battery are not waterproof. Do not handle with a wet hand. Also, do not insert wet card or battery into the camera.
• Do not leave the camera for a long period of time in places where temperature is very low (at ski resorts or at high altitude etc.) or very high [above 40 degrees C (104 degrees F)], inside a car under strong sunlight, close to a heater, on the beach, etc. Waterproof performance may be degraded.

*2 Anti-shock Performance. Panasonic's test method is based on the above "MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock" of the U.S. Defense Department, which specifies performing drop tests from a height of 122 cm (4 feet), at 26 orientations (8 corners, 12 ridges, 6 faces) using 5 sets of devices, and passing the 26 orientation drops within 5 devices. (If failure occurs during the test, a new set is used to pass the drop orientation test within a total of 5 devices) However, the drop height was changed from 122 cm (4 feet) to 150 cm (5 feet) dropping onto 3 cm (0.1 feet) thick plyboard. This drop test was passed. (Disregarding appearance change such as loss of paint or distortion of the part where drop impact is applied.)

*3 Sound will not be recorded with [MINIATURE EFFECT] and approximately 1/10 of the time period is recorded. (If you record for 10 minutes, the resulting motion picture recording will be approximately 1 minute long.)

*This unit is compatible with both SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. You can only use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them. You cannot use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are only compatible with SD Memory Cards. (When using an SDHC Memory Card on another device, be sure to read the operating instructions for that device.)

* All other company and product names are trademarks of their respective corporations.

*Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. and Canada.  The Company's portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and more. 

Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Panasonic was the only Consumer Electronics company to be listed in the top ten brands on the Interbrand Best Global Green Brands 2011 ranking. Follow Panasonic on Twitter @panasonicdirect, and additional company information for media is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

SOURCE Panasonic