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EOS-20D

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Product Information

The Bar Has Been Raised

The perfect EOS for advanced-amateurs and professionals alike, the EOS 20D sets new standards in its class. Featuring an all-new 8.2 MP CMOS Sensor, a second generation DIGIC II Image Processor, 5 fps performance for up to 23 consecutive frames and a 0.2 second start-up time, the EOS 20D is designed to capture richly detailed, perfectly exposed images with speed formerly found only in cameras several times the price. Other features include a top shutter speed of 1/8000 sec., flash sync at 1/250, a new high-precision 9-point AF System, a built-in multi-controller for fast focusing point selection and a refined magnesium alloy body, for rugged, go anywhere photography. Compatible with not only Canon's new EF-S Lenses, but with the entire EOS System of lenses and flashes, the EOS 20D is a professionally featured camera with a consumer price tag.

8.2 Megapixel CMOS Sensor

Canon's all-new large area CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) Sensor captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range, and offers the most pixels in its class. This 2nd generation APS-C size sensor (22.5 x 15.0mm) has the same 3:2 ratio as film cameras, enabling an effective angle of view that is 1.6x the normal EF Lens focal length. The EOS 20D has an extensive ISO range (from 100 to 1600 plus ISO 3200 in extended mode),and the sensor features a newly developed set of narrow-gap microlenses and noise reduction circuits to improve performance at high ISOs, and optimized photodiode configurations for improved performance at all ISOs. This results in larger, clearer, sharper and more detailed photographs right from the start.

Second Generation DIGIC II Image Processor

The EOS 20D benefits from Canon's in-house development: The DIGIC II Image Processor was developed originally for the EOS-1D Mark II and enhances every aspect of image capture. Information captured by the CMOS Sensor is processed and assembled into images of exceptional quality by this new Image Processor. With the DIGIC II Image Processor on board, photographers can expect precise, natural colors, and spot-on white balance in any number of lighting situations. Through sophisticated signal processing algorithms, the DIGIC II Image Processor even accelerates all aspects of image capture, while consuming less energy than other processors.

Every Function Optimized for Speedy RAW and JPEG Capture

The EOS 20D has been designed to capture images with speeds that had been reserved for professional level cameras. Whether it's the 0.2 second start-up time, the high speed mirror drive, the class-leading 65 msec. shutter release lag time, or the predictive AF focusing at speeds up to 5 frames-per-second, the EOS 20D will amaze and delight photographers who don't want to wait for their camera when they're ready to shoot. The 20D's CMOS Sensor allows 4-channel high-speed data readout, and the DIGIC II Image Processor processes the data quickly, writing files to the CompactFlash card faster, and allowing continuous shooting for up to 23 frames (JPEG Large/Fine) with significant reductions in buffer clearing times.

JPEG or Simultaneous RAW+JPEG

Whenever you shoot the EOS 20D, you can choose to have it record RAWs or JPEGs alone, or in RAW plus JPEG formats simultaneously. The JPEG recording format is ideal for purposes such as Internet image transfers that require reduced file sizes. Canon's proprietary RAW (.CR2) format, on the other hand, employs lossless compression to ensure the highest possible image quality, and is recorded at 12-bits per pixel to provide a wider range of tones and superior detail in bright highlights and deep shadows when compared with JPEG files. RAW files must be "processed" before they can be opened in your computer's image-editing software. This conversion process typically takes only a few seconds using the dedicated driver software, which will convert the RAW file into a standard 8-bit per channel JPEG or TIFF file, or for maximum tonal range, a 16-bit TIFF. There are six selectable settings for in-camera JPEG image quality, when CF card space is at a premium.

Expansive Sensor Array for Easier Composition

The EOS 20D has a newly developed high-precision 9-point AF system for speedy and accurate focusing in any situation. An improved focusing screen with precision matte finish enables brighter and easier manual focus. A newly developed multi-controller, conveniently located on the back of the camera for thumb-controlled action, allows the photographer to instantly choose any of the 9 focus points, or direct the camera to choose them automatically. Focusing points are positioned in the viewfinder in a wide diamond-shaped array, allowing the user to achieve focus quickly in numerous compositions and situations.

Features formerly offered only in Canon’s Pro Cameras allow for more fine-tuning.

Photographers will find their options for color settings greatly expanded in the new EOS 20D. Taken directly from the EOS-1D Mark II, the White Balance compensation function utilizes the new multi-controller and a nifty LCD monitor display to tune any white balance setting up to +/- 9 steps in blue, amber, magenta or green hues to ensure spot-on color. The new White Balance bracketing feature produces a series of 3 files varying white balance from magenta to green or blue to amber, depending on the lighting situation.

Images can be processed directly for the industry print standard Adobe RGB or standard sRGB, and are compatible with DCF 2.0 and Exif 2.21 standards for greater flexibility. A range of in-camera image processing parameters can optimize JPEG files for direct printing or post processing, or can be customized to the user's tastes and needs.

The EOS 20D also features a built-in monochrome mode, a first in Canon Digital SLRs, which uses digital processing to re-create the effects of a number of different black and white filters and toning effects. These features help to take the guesswork out of black-and-white photography, reducing the need for post processing by delivering the desired detail and contrast of a black and white image from the start.

Strength and Elegance Combined

The EOS 20D feels solid and rugged in your hands ensuring stable, easy handling. Its rigid chassis combines engineering plastic with stainless steel and is covered by strong, lightweight magnesium alloy panels on the top, front and rear. Controls are ergonomically shaped and positioned to sustain the EOS tradition of ergonomic excellence and sure-fire operation. The newly designed grip, shutter button and rubber skin contribute to this excellent holding comfort, and the camera's high-profile built-in flash is compact and hides itself neatly into the top of the body. A newly refined finish adds to the elegance of the camera body.

Expanded Zoom Display During Playback

While viewing recorded images on the camera's 1.8-inch, high-definition TFT color LCD, you can enter the Enlargement Mode and enlarge them up to 10x in 15 stops for detailed analysis of lighting, composition, camera movement, focusing accuracy, facial expression, etc. The new multi-controller enables horizontal and vertical scrolling, while the main dial enables viewing of the previous or next image stored in the CF card at the same enlarged view. In the maximum reduced view, nine images are displayed simultaneously on the approximately screen, making them quicker to find. The camera can be set to automatically rotate vertical images so they can be viewed easily on the monitor and also after downloading to your computer.

Direct Printing with PictBridge Compatible Printers

The EOS 20D lets you print beautiful photos with minimum time and effort - directly from the camera. Simply connect the camera with any PictBridge compatible printer via the high-speed USB 2.0 port to print images stored in the CF card. You can even set the EOS 20D to trim the image, add a surrounding "frame," superimpose a date, or print a number of copies. The EOS 20D's direct printing feature complies with Exif v2.2 (Exif Print) and DPOF v1.1. With a host of portable and home printers available from Canon including the new PIXMA iP4000 and PIXMA iP3000 Photo Printers, getting tangible results from the camera has never been faster or easier.

Software

The EOS 20D comes bundled with three software CDs, Canon's Digital Photo Professional (Version 1.1), the EOS Solution Disk (Version 8.0), and Photoshop Elements 2.0. Each application is designed to optimize captured images, and streamline the digital workflow.

Digital Photo Professional (Version 1.1)

This software provides easy to use RAW conversion tools, including high-speed RAW image processing, high-speed previewing for real-time image adjustment, and support for sRGB, Adobe RGB and Wide Gamut RGB color spaces. CMS (Color Management System) compatible, DPP allows for easy image layout and printing in Adobe RGB in conjunction with Easy-PhotoPrint and compatible printers.

EOS Solution Disk

The EOS Solution Disk includes EOS Viewer Utility, which provides dedicated support for downloading, remote control operation via EOS Capture and simple RAW image adjustment. In addition, it provides a favorites folder for special images, a checkmark editing function and PhotoStitch, which merges images to form large panoramics.

Photoshop Elements 2.0

Photoshop Elements 2.0 is an all purpose photo application which features an expansive range of image editing tools. Whether cropping or resizing, changing exposure or tone settings, or resaving images for special purposes like the web or for output, Photoshop Elements is an excellent tool for the digital photographer.

EF & EF-S Lenses

The EOS 20D is compatible with all Canon lenses in the EF lineup, ranging from ultra-wide-angle to super-telephoto lenses, and including Canon's new EF-S series lenses, manufactured specifically for the 20D and Digital Rebel. The EF lineup employs advanced optical know-how and micron precision engineering to deliver unprecedented performance in all facets of the photographic process. Aspherical optics and Fluorite elements, for example, are featured in the universally acclaimed L-series Lenses. Canon's Image Stabilization feature minimizes the effect of camera shake. Through Canon's EF Lenses, photographers can truly maximize the quality and liberating performance of the EOS 20D.

EOS 20D users will find the all-new EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens a perfect match for their new camera. It offers a 35mm equivalent of 27-136mm zoom range, includes Canon's Image Stabilizer (which adds an equivalent of 3 stops), a full-time manual focus mechanism, all in a compact, robust construction.

For wide-angle aficionados, the new EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM (available in October, 2004) provides the shortest minimum focal length ever offered in an interchangeable digital SLR lens (excluding fisheye lenses). With a 35mm equivalent 16-35mm zoom range, high-speed USM autofocus and full-time manual focus, the EF-S 10-22mm zoom lens significantly expands the versatility of the EOS 20D.

Flash Photography

The EOS 20D features the acclaimed E-TTL II flash metering system introduced with the EOS-1D Mark II. Whether using its flush mounted integral flash (guide no. of 43/13 @ ISO 100 m/ft.) or any of the flashes in the EX Speedlite line, E-TTL II provides stable flash brightness through numerous exposures.

Canon's new Speedlite 580EX is perfectly suited to the EOS 20D. It includes a maximum guide no. of 190/58 @ ISO 100 m/ft., which, when mounted on the EOS 20D, automatically compensates for the EOS 20D's sensor size, enabling high output flash, with more flashes per charge. It includes an AF-assist Beam, which works in conjunction with the EOS 20D's focusing system, and automatically sends color temperature information to the camera when the flash fires, for more accurate color rendition with flash photography.

Additional Accessories

In addition to Canon's EF series of lenses and Speedlites, several other accessories are designed to work specifically with the EOS 20D. The Battery Grip BG-E2 adds a vertical shutter release, and is compatible with up to two of Canon's BP-511/511A/512/514 Lithium-ion battery packs, or alternatively a set of six AA batteries, for greater convenience when traveling. Canon's Semi Hard Case EH/7-L can accommodate the EOS 20D with a small zoom lens (EF-S17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM included), and the EOS 20D is compatible with Canon's DVK-E2 image data verification kit to check original image data authenticity, whenever verification is essential.

 

Specifications
Type  
Type Digital, single-lens reflex, AF/AE camera with built-in flash
Image Format
22.5mm x 15.0mm
Compatible Lenses Canon EF and EF-S lenses (35mm-equivalent focal length is equal to approx.1.6 times the marked focal length.)
Lens Mount Canon EF mount
   
Image Sensor
 
Type
High-sensitivity, high-resolution, single-plate CMOS sensor
Pixels Approx. 8.25 megapixels (3520x2344)
Total Pixels Approx. 8.50 megapixels (3600x2360)
Aspect Ratio
3:2
Color Filter System RGB primary color filter
Low-pass Filter
Located in front of the image sensor, non-removable
   
Recording System  
Recording Format
JPEG (except when Adobe RGB is set) supporting Design rule for Camera File system and RAW
Image Format

JPEG and RAW (12-bit)

File Size
(1) Large/Fine: Approx. 3.6 MB (3504x2336 pixels)
(2) Large/Normal: Approx. 1.8 MB (3504x2336 pixels)
(3) Medium/Fine: Approx. 2.2 MB (2544x1696 pixels)
(4) Medium/Normal: Approx. 1.1 MB (2544x1696 pixels)
(5) Small/Fine: Approx. 1.2 MB (1752x1168 pixels)
(6) Small/Normal: Approx. 0.6 MB (1752x1168 pixels
(7) RAW (3504x2336 pixels): 8.7MB RAW + Small/Normal: Approx. 9.3 MB RAW + Small/Fine: Approx. 9.9 MB RAW + Medium/Normal: Approx. 9.8 MB RAW + Medium/Fine: Approx. 10.9 MB RAW + Large/Normal: Approx. 10.5 MB RAW + Large/Fine: Approx. 12.3 MB * Exact file sizes depend on the subject and ISO speed.
File Numbering

Consecutive numbering, auto reset

Color Space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Two sets of standard parameters plus up to three sets of custom processing parameters (4 items with 5 settings each) as well as monochrome photography with custom parameters can be set.
   
White Balance  
Settings Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Flash, Manual Color Temperature Setting and Custom
Auto White Balance Via image sensor data
Personal White Balance
+/-3 steps in whole-stop increments
Color Temperature Compensation
+/- 9 steps in 1-step increments
   
Viewfinder  
Type Eye-level SLR (with fixed pentamirror)
Coverage
Approx. 95% vertically and horizontally (Coverage against JPEG Large)
Magnification
0.9x (-1 dpt. with 50mm lens at infinity)
Eyepoint 20mm
Dioptric Adjustment Correction -3.0 - +1.0 dpt.
Focusing Screen
Fixed, Precision Matte screen
Mirror Quick-return half mirror (Transmission: reflection ratio of 40:60. No mirror cut-off with lenses up to EF 600mm f/4)
Viewfinder Information AF (AF points, focus confirmation light), exposure (shutter speed, aperture value, manual exposure, AE lock, exposure compensation amount, AEB level, partial metering area), flash (flash ready, red-eye reduction lamp on, high-speed sync, FE lock, flash exposure compensation), warnings (exposure warning, improper FE lock warning, CF card full warning, CF card error warning, no CF card warning, busy), maximum burst for continuous shooting, shots remaining.
Depth-of-Field Preview Enabled with depth-of-field preview button
   
Autofocus
 
Type
TTL-CT-SIR with a CMOS Sensor (TTL CrossType secondary image registration)
AF Points
9
AF Working Range EV 0.5-18 (at 20° C, ISO 100)
Focusing Modes One-Shot AF, Predictive Al Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focus (MF)
AF Point Selection Automatic selection, Manual AF point selection
Active AF Point Indicator Superimposed in viewfinder and indicated on LCD panel
AF-assist Beam
Intermittent firing of built-in flash
Effective Range Approx. 4.0m/13.1 ft. at center, approx. 3.5m/11.5 ft. off-center
   
Exposure Control

 

Metering System
TTL full aperture metering with 35-zone SPC
(1) Evaluative metering (linkable to any AF point)
(2) Partial metering (approx. 9% of viewfinder at center)
(3) Center-weighted average metering
Metering Range
EV 1-20 (at 20° C with 50mm f/1.4 lens, ISO 100)
Exposure Control Systems Program AE (Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Flash Off, Program), Shutter-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Automatic Depth-of-Field AE, Manual Exposure, ETTL-II Autoflash
ISO Speed Range

Basic Zone modes: Automatic

Creative Zone Modes Equivalent to ISO 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, and ISO 3200 with ISO speed extension
Exposure Compensation AEB: +/-2 stops in 1/2- or 1/3 stop increments
Manual +/-2 stops in 1/2- or 1/3 stop increments (can be combined with AEB)
AE Lock Auto: Applied when focus is achieved in the One Shot AF mode with evaluative metering. Manual: Applied with AE lock button

 
Shutter  
Type Vertical-travel focal-plane shutter with all speeds electronically controlled
Shutter Speeds
1/8000 - 30 sec. (1/2- or 1/3-stop increments), bulb, X-sync at 1/250 sec.
Shutter Release
Soft-touch electromagnetic release
Self-timer 10 sec. delay
Remote Control
N3-type remote control
   
Built-in Flash  
Type Auto pop-up E-TTL II autoflash (retractable)
Guide Number
13 (ISO 100m), 43 (ISO 100 ft.)
Recycling Time
Approx. 3 sec.
Flash-ready Indicator
Flash-ready indicator lights in viewfinder
Flash Coverage
17mm lens angle covered
Flash Metering System E-TTL II autoflash
Flash Exposure Compensation +/-2 stops in 1/2- and 1/3 stop increments
   
External Speedlite  
EOS External Flash or Dedicated Speedlites
E-TTL II autoflash set with EX-series Speedlites
PC Terminal Provided
   
Drive System  
Drive Modes Single frame, Continuous, Self-timer
Continuous Shooting Speed
Approx. 5 fps (at 1/250 sec. or faster speeds)
Max. Burst During Continuous Shooting 23 shots (Large/Fine JPEG) or 6 shots (RAW or RAW+JPEG)
   
LCD Monitor
 
Type TFT color liquid-crystal monitor
Screen Monitor size 1.8 in.
Pixels Approx. 118,000 pixels
Coverage Approx. 100% for JPEG images
Brightness Control 5 levels
   
Playback  
Image Display Format Single image, 9-image index, Magnified zoom, Auto play, Auto play right after shooting
Highlight Alert
In the single image and single image (Info) modes, any overexposed highlight areas with no image information will blink
   
Image Protection and Erase  
Protection Single images can be protected or unprotected
Compatible Printers
Canon CP Printers, Canon BJ Printers and PictBridge printers for direct printing from the camera
Settings
Print quantity, style (image, paper, borders, date), and trimming
   
Menus
 
Menu Categories
Shooting menu: Red
Playback menu: Blue
Setup menu: Yellow
LCD Monitor Language
12 languages provided (English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese)
Firmware Update Update possible by the user
   
Power Source  
Battery One Battery Pack BP-511A/BP-511/BP-512/BP-514AC power can be supplied via the optional DC coupler.
Battery Life
At 68° F / 20° C: 650 (No Flash), 500 (50% Flash Use), At 32° F / 0° C: 500 (No Flash), 400 (50% Flash Use). These figures apply when a fully-charged Battery Pack BP-511A/BP-511/BP-512/BP-514 is used.
Battery Check
Automatic
Power Saving
Provided. Power turns off after 1, 2, 4, 8, 15, or 30 min
   
Dimensions and Weight  
Dimensions (W x H x D) 5.7 x 4.2 x 2.8 in. / 144 x 105.5 x 71.5mm
Weight 24.2 oz / 685 g (body only)
   
Operating Environment  
Operating Temperature Range
32 - 104° F / 0 - 40° C
Operating Humidity Range
85% or lower