MMC card / MMC compartment / MMC reader

As I mentioned earlier this is the first digital camera we've reviewed which takes the newer MMC flash cards. They're approximately two thirds the size of a Sony MemoryStick and approximately the same width. They feel sturdier than SmartMedia, but are probably easier to use. MMC cards are available in capacities up to 64 MB with 128 MB cards on the way. They work out slightly more expensive (per MB) than SmartMedia or Compact Flash (though obviously prices may drop as more devices are released).

Due to the lack of USB interface Kyocera have supplied this tiny plugin USB MMC card reader (there's also an extension cable if you don't have a desktop USB port), it looks very similar to the same reader sold under different brand names elsewhere. The reader doesn't need special drivers to work under Windows ME or Windows 2000 so you should be able to carry it with you and download images almost anywhere...

Connections

On the right side of the camera (from the back) just beside the MMC compartment you'll find the DC-IN connector for use with the supplied AC adapter / charger, above this is the video out port which can be used to connect the camera to a VCR / TV using the supplied cable (output can be switched between NTSC and PAL).

Lens

The S3's little lens provides a 2x optical zoom, with equiv. focal length range of 38 - 76 mm and a maximum aperture of F2.8 at wide angle and F3.5 at full telephoto. I personally found the lens surprisingly noisy when focusing, extension and zooming wasn't too bad but the noise from the AF motor was surprising. As with most ultra-compacts the S3's lens has an automatic lens cover which close over the front element when the lens is fully retracted, it fits flush to the front of the body.

Flash

The S3's tiny flash unit is mounted in the top right corner of the body and is rated with a coverage of 2.5 m (8.2 ft) at full wide angle (38 mm, F2.8 @ ISO 100).

Tripod mount / camera base

The base of the camera is a simple enough affair, the tripod mount is located on the left edge of the camera, measuring the battery against the base it's clear that this was the only location for it. Despite its looks it is made of plastic.

Supplied In the Box

Supplied in the box is:

• Kyocera Finecam S3 digital camera
• BP-800S Lithium-Ion battery
• AC-70L AC adapter / charger (100 - 240 V AC)
• SDR-1 MMC USB reader & extension cable
• Soft case
• Video out cable (ends in RCA jack)
• Manual, Quick Start guide
• CD-ROM