Merlin John puts Kodak’s latest entry into the digital media market, the MC3, through its paces
When Intel launched a digital still and video camera for children last year, its Pocket PC and the Intel Play Digital Movie Creator, heads turned (TES Online, p21; October 2001 and p22, November 2001). But within months US chipmaker Intel pulled the plug on its “home” products. Now its UK education distributor, Tag Learning, has been assured of Intel supplies only until March, so the search is on for replacements.
On paper Kodak’s MC3 device replaces both. In short, you have a digital still and video camera come MP3 player that fits into one hand - all for just pound;119.95. But here’s the catch: the dim viewfinder and low quality image (640x480, 24-bit colour) means that the MC3 can only be used outdoors unless you have particularly good lighting indoors.
For the average user this is disappointing. However, people who can get around the lighting downside (importantly, there is no flash) could find it a useful provider of low-level images and video for multimedia, websites and emails. It captures 4 seconds per megabyte at best quality, and 20 seconds per megabyte at lower quality. And its bonus function as a mobile stereo will appeal to many.
Aside from the reservations, design is superb. All that’s on the front of the device is the lens, with volume control and shutter release on top. On the back is the screen viewfinder with straightforward controls for switching between modes and handling playback. A door on the side conceals the slot for the removable CompactFlash memory card (16 megabytes) on which the data is stored.
Information moves between PC or Mac via a simple USB docking station that powers the MC3 (normally powered by three AAA batteries).
If you only need basic images and video and are not likely to be stuck in average to low-lit environments, and MP3 playback is something you want, then the Kodak MC3 could be for you. However, it’s advisable to ask for a demonstration.
Kodak MC3
BETTstand: F50 (Tag Learning)
Price: pound;119.95
www.taglearning.co.uk
Suitibility for purpose ***
Ease of use *****
Design *****
Value for money *****
