Canon Announces New Speedlite 420EX Flash Unit

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--Aug. 23, 2000--Canon U.S.A., Inc. is introducing the Speedlite 420EX, a compact flash unit developed simultaneously with the new EOS Elan 7/7E but compatible with all EOS System cameras including the new EOS D30 digital SLR. Building on the outstanding features of the popular Speedlite 380EX flash, the new 420EX replaces that product with the added capability of E-TTL wireless autoflash, giving EOS System photographers an alternative in a wireless flash system. Additionally, the 420EX's AF-assist beam has been improved to cover all 7 focusing zones of the EOS Elan 7/7E.

The new Speedlite 420EX can be used with most current EOS cameras as a remote flash in an E-TTL wireless autoflash system. Canon's E-TTL wireless autoflash system is ideal for creating advanced lighting effects in a wide variety of applications such as nature photography, close-ups, and portraiture.

Speedlite 420EX has a maximum Guide Number of 42/138 (ISO 100, meters/feet) and the flash head's autozoom provides edge-to-edge coverage for focal lengths from 24mm to 105mm with bounce and swivel capabilities. Higher flash output in a more compact body (approximately 10% smaller than the Speedlite 380EX) is made possible due to a large storage capacitor and higher flash efficiency using an improved reflector and fresnel lens.

The AF-assist beam of the 420EX is emitted automatically when necessary in low light situations to ensure accurate focusing. It is capable of covering all 7 focusing points of the EOS Elan 7/7E by using two new ultra-bright LEDs that emit a cross-type pattern with vertical and horizontal stripes. The effective range of the AF-assist beam is approximately 2.7 ft. to 23 ft using the central focusing points, and approximately 2.7 ft. to 16.4 ft. for other focusing points.

The new Speedlite 420EX is powered by the user's choice of four AA-size Alkaline, Ni-CD, Lithium or Nickel-Metal-Hydride (Ni-MH) cells, with a shooting capacity of up to 400 full-power flashes per set when AA-size lithium cells are used.

The flash measures 71.5 (W) x 123 (H) x 99.4 (D) mm and weighs 10.6 ounces. The Speedlite 420EX will be available at retailers nationwide in October, 2000 and have a suggested list price of .00.