Leaf Aptus Camera Back Introduced

The Leaf Aptus is the latest in portable digital camera backs from Creo. The new 22- or 17-Mpxl backs offer many new features, including: a full-frame CCD dual sensor readout for a capture speed of 1.2 sec per frame, 50 frames/min (both tethered and untethered); 16-bit color; and resolutions up to 4056 x 5356 (Aptus 22), and 3576 x 4716 (Aptus 17).

Creo claims this is the first camera back with a touch screen and graphic user interface, making it easier to operate and set up custom jobs. With it, files can be prenamed, job folders created, and files flagged/edited on location for a faster workflow.

The Leaf Aptus also integrates a new compressed RAW HDR (CHDR) file format. This format decreases the size of RAW HDR files with lossless compression that retains 100% of the original data. This speeds up shooting, doubles effective storage, and makes archiving and file transmission twice as efficient, reports Creo. For example, file size for the Leaf HDR is 126 M, Leaf RAW HDR is 42 M, and compressed cHDR is 21 M (lossless) or 11M (nearly lossless).

In addition, the Aptus also features

-a 6 x 7 cm LCD for image evaluation, focus confirmation, and editing;

-an integrated compact flash with power for more than 1000 frames;

-a 20 GB Leaf Digital Magazine with storage space for up to 2000 frames; and

-Bluetooth wireless display technology to preview shots away from the camera using the Leaf DP-67 portable display.

The Leaf Aptus supports the Hasselblad H1 and V series; Mimaki 645AFD, RZ67, and RB67; Contax 645AFD; Fuji GX680; Bronica SQA/ETRS; and view cameras from Sinar, Toyo, Cambo, Linhof, Horseman, and Rollei X-Act.
Commercial shipping begins in February 2005; price TBA.

(Creo: www.creo.com/leaf)