Canon EOS 40D

1 Fast Frame Rates

The 40D can shoot up to 6.5 images per second, for up to 75 Large/Fine JPEG or 17 RAW images—a big improvement over the 30D’s admirable 5 fps for up to 30 JPEG or 11 RAW. The 40D also provides 3 fps, silent and single-frame advance modes. The camera retains the 30D’s superquick 0.15-second start-up time.

2 Powerful DIGIC III Processor

Faster operation, more efficient energy consumption, finer image detail and more natural colors are some of the benefits of the 40D’s latest-generation Canon DIGIC III image processor (vs. the DIGIC II in the 30D). Other image-quality improvements include 14-bit A/D conversion (which can recognize 16,384 colors or brightness steps, 4x as many as the 30D’s 12-bit conversion), high-ISO noise reduction and Highlight Tone Priority, which provides finer gradations and reduces blown-out highlights.

3 9-Point AF

All nine AF points now work as cross-types with lenses of ƒ/5.6 or faster. A unique diagonally oriented central sensor features enhanced precision at ƒ/2.8 or faster—actually better than the Pro 1 series cameras. Focusing calculation speed is 1.3x faster than with the 30D, and autofocusing is more accurate and more stable. AF operating range remains EV -0.5 to EV 18 (ISO 100).

4 Self-Cleaning Sensor

An essential feature for an interchangeable-lens D-SLR that’s to be used in the field, the 40D’s new self-cleaning sensor unit uses ultrasonic vibrations to remove dust from the low-pass filter in front of the image sensor each time you switch the camera on or off, and can also be activated manually when desired. The camera can map any remaining sensor dust and append it as Dust Delete Data to each image from that point on, then remove the spots automatically during postprocessing with the provided DPP software.

5 10-Megapixel CMOS

The 40D provides a 23% increase in resolution over the EOS 30D, thanks to a newly enhanced 10.1-megapixel Canon-produced CMOS image sensor. Based on the sensor in the EOS Digital Rebel XTi, the 40D’s version uses larger microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and expand sensitivity. The focal-length factor remains 1.6x.

6 Built For The Elements

Upgraded dust and weather sealing enhance the magnesium-alloy body and stainless-steel chassis—always a boon for the outdoor photographer. The 100,000-cycle shutter now features a contactless switch for increased reliability. Along with the mechanical shutter, the 40D has a first-curtain electronic shutter for the Live-View function.

7 Live-View LCD

Besides being much bigger than the 30D’s monitor (3 inches vs. 2.5 inches), the 40D’s new 3.0-inch LCD monitor features a Live-View mode, handy for odd-angle, close-up and tripod-mounted shooting, and checking depth of field. You can focus manually or automatically (by pressing the AF-ON button) in Live-View mode. Live View also features silent shooting, plus exposure-simulation and grid-line modes. With the optional WFT-E3A wireless file transmitter, you can view the image on a computer monitor and operate the camera remotely in Live-View mode. LCD monitor image display and navigation are also simpler, with more options and larger menu text.

Independent Exposure And Focus
A new AF Start button lets you activate autofocusing and metering separately. AF starts when you press the AF start button, metering when you depress the shutter button halfway.

Custom Settings
The 40D is highly customizable, featuring 24 custom functions with 62 settings, plus the ability to store and apply up to three user settings.

Contact: Canon, (800) OK-CANON, www.usa.canon.com.

Specifications
Image Sensor: 10.1-megapixel (effective) CMOS
Resolution: 3888 x 2592 pixels
Sensor Size: 22.2×14.8mm (APS-C), 1.6x
AF System: 9-point (all cross-types)
Shutter Speeds: 1/8000 to 30 sec., X-sync up to 1/250 sec.
ISO Settings: 100-1600 (1/3-step increments), plus 3200 and Auto
Continuous Firing Mode: 6.5 fps, 3 fps
Recording Format: JPEG, RAW, sRAW
Metering: 35-zone evaluative, 9% partial, 3.8% spot, center-weighted
Storage Media: CompactFlash (CF I/II)
Power Source: rechargeable BP-511A lithium-ion battery
Dimensions: 5.7×4.2×2.9 inches
Weight: 26.1 ounces
Estimated Street Price: $1,299