Datacolor announces SpyderLensCal focus calibrator

Datacolor has announced the SpyderLensCal focus calibrator. The device allows photographers to measure the AF performance of their camera/lens combinations. On DSLRs with a micro-adjustment feature, this tool can be used to help determine the best values to set in the camera's custom settings menu to correct front or back focus. SpyderLensCal will be available from September 6, 2010 at a suggested retail price of $59.



Lawrenceville, NJ and Photokina (Hall 4.1, Booth E010/F019) – September 1, 2010 – Datacolor® (www.datacolor.com), a global leader in color management solutions, today announced SpyderLensCal™, a reliable method of measuring the focus performance on camera and lens combinations that delivers razor-sharp focusing using modern DSLR autofocus micro-adjustment.

Photographers have enjoyed the benefit of autofocus for 25 years yet many still struggle with its accuracy and repeatability. Until now, lens calibration inaccuracies were corrected by shipping the camera and lenses to the manufacturers for servicing. This can be both costly and time-consuming, with each new lens requiring calibration. By adding the SpyderLensCal to their gear bag, photographers can easily calibrate interchangeable lenses on their own and eliminate the need for service.

Many newer models of popular DSLR cameras have a lens micro calibration feature which requires a reference test system to adjust the autofocus. SpyderLensCal was designed to aid in correcting the autofocus by enabling photographers to store them in custom camera settings on recent DLSR bodies. With the capability to store lens autofocus corrections on recent DSLR cameras, users can easily change from lens to lens without needing to recalibrate.

“Autofocus inaccuracy can exist on even the most high-end lenses, and can negate an entire day’s worth of shooting or other assignments if left unaddressed,” said Christoph Gamper, Vice President, Consumer Business Unit. “Professional photographers today are using a variety of lenses, differing in focus depending on the combination being used with the camera body. The SpyderLensCal gives photographers a tool that allows them to correct discrepancies on their own while improving the quality of their work by increasing the number of usable shots.”

SpyderLensCal’s lightweight and compact design comes with a built-in level and is tri-pod mountable for optimum consistency. Molded in durable, rigid resin, SpyderLensCal is the ultimate hard-wearing and long-lasting accessory, able to handle even the most extreme conditions.

Availability and Pricing
SpyderLensCal is available at a suggested list price of $59.00 from www.datacolor.com/spyder or at participating resellers. Pre-orders for the SypderLensCal begin today with its official worldwide launch to take place at Photokina in Cologne, Germany, from September 21-26, 2010. Datacolor will be demonstrating the SpyderLensCal at Photokina, allowing attendees to calibrate one camera body and lens. An introduction video to SpyderLensCal is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-JrUQO_Z5U

This is probably good to get exact accuracy from the AF