Improved Viewfinder
Experience
Rugged Construction
The optical viewfinders on both cameras has been improved slightly,although the EOS 5D
Mark II boasts the majority of changes. Its newly-developed pentaprism viewfinder now
features 98% coverage compared to 96% on the EOS 5D,a clearer and crisper image, and a
more comfortable 21mm eye point relief (compared to 20mm on the 5D).In addition, the
Data Display in both viewfinders now includes a battery check indicator, an ISO speed
number,a “D+” indicator when Highlight Tone Priority is activated, and a “B/W” symbol
appears when the camera is set to black and white mode.
Both cameras share nearly all of the same internal and external body construction features
found in their predecessors.These include rugged magnesium alloy main covers on the
top,front, and rear (with the grip integrated into the front cover), for light weight and
high strength.The stainless steel chassis is solidly fixed to the mirror box, which is made
of engineering plastic to prevent any change in the flange focal distance when using heavy
lenses.Extr a care has been taken in the selection of moving parts in order to reduce the
chance for microscopic particles that would cause dust spots on the sensor.The left side,
which includes connectors such as the HDMI and audio video out terminals, is also made
of engineering plastic with excellent electromagnetic shielding properties.Tight attached,
weather-resistant rubber flaps cover these connectors.
In both camera bodies, the weather and dust seals have been improved around the battery
compartments and memory card doors, and increased precision in the alignment of the
magnesium alloy external cover seams and in the optimal design of camera parts and
structures contribute to the cameras’ dust and water resistance.Internal gaskets and sealing
materials are used extensively at the cameras’ buttons,tr ipod sockets,and surrounding
the LCDs.As a result, the EOS 5D Mark II now has dust and water resistance that is
almost equal to that of the EOS-1N—Canon’s top-of-the-line professional 35mm SLR
for most of the 1990’s.
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IV. PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY
EOS 5D MarkII Magnesium Alloy Body EOS 50D Magnesium AlloyBody