Panasonic's new compact 3D lens for the LUMIX G Micro System features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses that are then processed with a 3D image processing system.

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In a conventional optical system, light rays enter through a lens and converge at a point to form an image.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

CDM's imaging system, it passes first through conventional optical elements, and then through a lens moulded into a shape of a cubic-like function (ie, with a surface which, instead of being spherical, is relatively flat in the centre but has scalloped edges).

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

The Z80 features a 3X optical zoom, face detection and an intelligent focusing system that locks in the correct focus, while the Z200 rocks a 4X optical zoom and wide angle lens -- down to 28mm.

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