Default picture label The default picture label is attached to each picture when it is taken. This label appears below each thumbnail image in the Transfer Pictures window to help identification. It is also visible in the camera’s LCD panel. After taking a picture, you can change its label from the default to an individualized description by using the camera controls (see the PDC-3000 User’s Guide) or by using the PDC Plug-in software (see Editing a picture label on page 127). Changing the default picture label affects only pictures taken after the changes are made. Pictures taken earlier and stored in the camera retain the label in effect when they were taken. (The default picture label can also be changed with the camera controls as described in the PDC-3000 User’s Guide.)

Current date and time The camera’s internal clock settings are attached to each picture to indicate the date and time the picture was taken. You can view the camera's current date and time settings in the camera LCD panel. Changing the date or time affects only pictures taken after the changes are made. Pictures taken earlier and stored in the camera retain the settings in effect when they were taken.

Automatic shutoff timeouts The timeout settings determine how long the camera remains inactive before the main camera power automatically turns off to conserve battery power. The automatic shutoff for camera power does not operate when the camera is under computer control

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PDC 3000 specifications

The Polaroid PDC 3000, released in the late 1990s, is a significant milestone in the evolution of digital photography. It marked Polaroid's foray into digital cameras, blending the company’s rich heritage in instant photography with emerging digital technologies. This camera is notable for its compact design and accessible user interface, making it attractive for both amateurs and enthusiasts.

At the heart of the PDC 3000 is a 1.3 megapixel sensor, which was quite notable for its time. This resolution allowed users to capture images with decent clarity, suitable for casual prints or sharing among friends and family. The camera offered several shooting modes, including a still mode for high-quality photographs and a digital video mode, expanding its functionality beyond mere still photography.

One of the main features of the PDC 3000 is its 8 MB internal memory, allowing it to store approximately 40 images at its highest resolution. Users could select lower resolution settings to capture more images, making it versatile for different shooting scenarios. Additionally, the camera supported a 1.44-inch LCD screen, which provided real-time feedback, allowing users to frame their shots accurately before capturing.

The PDC 3000's simplicity extended to its controls, which were designed with the everyday user in mind. The menu system was intuitive, and its physical buttons were easy to understand, contributing to a seamless shooting experience.

Another notable aspect of the PDC 3000 was its connectivity options. The camera included a parallel port for direct connections to printers, enabling users to produce hard copies of their digital images without the need for a computer. This linked back to Polaroid's roots in instant printing, offering a new twist on an old concept.

In terms of design, the Polaroid PDC 3000 was compact and lightweight, making it easily portable. Its sleek body was available in several colors, appealing to a broad audience.

While the PDC 3000 may not compete with modern digital cameras, it played a crucial role in introducing digital photography to the masses and paving the way for future innovations at Polaroid and beyond. With its blend of accessible technology and Polaroid’s legacy, the PDC 3000 holds a special place in the transition from film to digital photography.