For Elton --- Pentax Optio W30

[Norman]

Hi Elton,

Got me hands on one in the end , all the way from Hong Kong.
4 days delivery from order on line to knock at the door ..... excellent

I`ll let you know more when I`ve tried it out in full

[mark]

waterproof?? tell me more, how much?? want one want one

[Norman]

Hi Mark,

heres the review ........ at http://www.dpreview.com/news/0702/07022103pentaxw30.asp

doesn`t seem available in UK yet although supposed to be released at end of march.

total cost (from the address above ie www.digitalrev.com ) was circa £200 including DHL delivery and import duty (all sorted for you when buying)

[SIXFOOTSTEVE]

Does it float as well Norman

[Norman]

lol steve , there`s a warning ......... its waterproof but it dont float so keep it strapped to your arm

the instructions after a day out at the seaside and/or on the beach say ....... to keep clean --- run it under a cold tap ! well maybe someday I`ll try it

[elton]

Nice one, Norman. It will be good to hear how you get on.

Since I added this press release - http://www.nesa.co.uk/News/pentax_optio_w30.html - quite a few people have asked for more info. Unfortunately, the PR company haven't replied to any of my emails

[Norman]

Elton
Believe me I will be honest and if I find a fault I will report it

one possible weak part (I feel) is the hinge on the battery/card door, it`s great when closed and is a good waterproof seal (or seems to be) but when open I feel it could easily be broken if the camera were misshandled at this point. (note - only if mishandled) so i close door every time I take card out for transfer of pictures

other than that I`m gobsmacked at the quality, it`s 7.1 megapixles which with a 2Gb Card (for about £23) would take over 400 highest quality pictures or 30mins 30 frames/sec video.

The ease of use is oustanding just switch on and press to take

The macro capability is ..... well, I still dont believe it, takes pictures (auto focus) to 1 CM away from the lens (10mm or 1/2 inch in old money)

Video is like using a camcorder ....

i could go on .....................

excellent all round , if I catch any fish this year i`ll photograph them

ps if anyone wants any particular information please feel free to PM me

[bigh]

I'm surprised TC hasn't had any input yet........ what do you think Tony ????