The new compact Canon EOS 5D digital SLR incorporates a full-frame CMOS sensor with 12.8 megapixels of resolution in a magnesium-alloy body weighing 28.6 ounces. A finer CMOS production process and optimized photodiode construction increase the light-sensitive area of each pixel and improve dynamic range.
The model allows users to shoot up to three frames per second, and record up to 60 full-resolution JPEGs and 17 RAW images in a single burst. The camera includes a new nine-point autofocus system with six supplemental autofocus points, a new algorithm and new circuitry. The nine autofocus points are concentrated at the center, with the extreme left and right points located in the same positions as the corresponding autofocus points on the EOS-1Ds Mark II. The six invisible supplemental autofocus points are grouped around the center for accurate focusing and tracking subjects in AI SERVO AF mode.
The EOS 5D has a newly developed, high-speed, durable shutter unit. The shutter is a vertical-travel, focal-plane type with two parallelogram link curtains, each having four blades, three made from KN Mylar and one from Duralumin, for durability rated at 100,000 shots.
The new camera has a 2.5-inch polysilicon TFT LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 pixels. Brightness is adjustable in five levels. In addition, Quick Review images are now enlargeable.
The EOS 5D sells for approximately $3,299.