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.)

Camera sound indicators You can disable the camera’s audible error signals. (See the PDC-3000 User’s Guide for a description of these indicators.)

Picture compression level You can choose the amount of compression applied to pictures for saving space on the camera's CompactFlash card. See Selecting a picture compression level on page 76 for more detailed information about these choices. (You can also use the procedure on page 78 to change the compression level using the camera controls.)

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 date and time setting on 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 viewfinder image on the computer and the main camera power automatically turn off to conserve battery power. The

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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.
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