Although photography may not seem like a significant activity at most large organizations, it does play an important part in many traditional areas, such as human resources, training and public relations.

In IT operations, digital photography allows the capture and storage of reference images of equipment, from server innards to end-user PCs to wiring closets. At a former employer of mine, the IT department and the manager of our testing lab both used digital cameras to document newly arrived equipment, close-ups of specific hardware and configuration items, even details of how cases went together. This was helpful for later reference and for posting on the company intranet so that anyone who needed hardware information about a specific machine could quickly get it.

Moreover, a digital camera can be an invaluable tool for many research and development operations, allowing people to easily document many activities, prototypes and products.

I mention this to preface a look at two new digital cameras that are well suited for IT documentation as well as general use.

The new model features higher resolution (3.34 vs. 2.11 megapixels for the older camera) and a better, faster f/1.8 3X zoom lens for operating in lower light. I was favorably impressed two years ago with the C2000, but I've used many digital cameras since then and have raised my standards for quality and ease of use. I didn't much like the new model, even with its significantly better specs. In fact, the 3040 handles a lot like the 2000, but I now find it cumbersome, and the controls and menus are more confusing than they need to be.

The comparably-featured Kodak DC4800 is much easier and quicker to use, and it just feels better in my hands.

I recognize that this is a highly personal consideration, so I urge readers thinking of buying a digital camera to handle the actual model

» posted by ITworld staff

Computerworld

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