Camera Test: Canon EOS 50D

Imaging: 15.1MP effective, APS-C sized CMOS sensor (1.6X lens factor) captures images at 4752x3168 pixels with 14 bits/color in RAW mode.

Storage: Single CompactFlash Type I/II including UDMA; Microdrives. Stores JPEG, RAW, RAW + JPEG files.

Burst rate: Full-sized JPEGs (Fine mode): Up to 90 shots at 6.3 fps. RAW: Up to 16 shots at 6.3 fps. (Both tested using UDMA CF card.)

AF system: TTL phase detection with 9 illuminated focus points (all cross-type). Single-shot and continuous AF with Predictive AI Servo focus tracking. Tested sensitivity down to EV -2 (at ISO 100, f/1.4).

Live view: TTL phase detection and contrast detection modes.

Shutter speeds: 1/8000 to 30 sec plus B (1/3-, 1/2-, or 1-EV increments). 100,000-cycle rating.

Metering: 35-zone TTL metering, Evaluative, Centerweighted, Partial (approx. 9% of viewfinder), and spot (approx. 3.8% of viewfinder). EV 1-20 (at ISO 100).

ISO range: Normal, ISO 100-3200 (in 1/3 EV increments); expanded, ISO 6400 and 12,800 (in 1-EV increments).

Flash: Built-in pop-up unit, GN 43 (in feet at ISO 100), covers angle of view of 17mm lens. X-sync at 1/250 sec.

Viewfinder: Fixed eyelevel pentaprism. LCD: 3-in. TFT with 920,000-dot resolution, 160-degree viewing angle.

Output: Hi-Speed USB 2.0, HDMI (mini-type) video, GPS.

Battery: Rechargeable BP-511A Li-ion; CIPA rating: 640 shots.

Size/weight: 5.7x4.2x2.9 in., 1.72 lb with card and battery.

Street price: $1,400, street, body only; $1,600 with EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens; $2,100 with EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens.

For info: www.canoneos.com.