A review of the first of Panasonic's 'Rugged compact' cameras. The DMC TS1 is dust-proof, waterproof, shock-proof, offering HD video recording and a multitude of innovative scene modes that cut the complexity out of taking really good photos. Read on to find if the TS1 should be your next purchase.
The Lumix DMC TS1 is the first offering by Panasonic in the 'Rugged, water-proof, shock-proof' type of compact cameras. For a first offering, this camera does pretty well. Panasonic is also the manufacturer of rugged laptops branded 'Toughbook', and I would say they've put the 'tough shell' expertise they possess to very good use here.
The Basics
The Panasonic Lumix DMC TS1 ships with the following items in the box:
- Panasonic Lumix DMC TS1 body
- Battery pack
- Battery charger
- Wrist strap
- CD-ROM
- USB cable
- AV cable
- Manual
Specifications:
- Sensor: 12 MP CCD
- Lens: 4.6 X (28-128 mm equivalent)
- Screen: 2.7" LCD
- ISO Range: 80-6400
- Shutter speed: 60s-1/1300 s
- Memory type: SD/SDHC
- Dimensions: 3.9x2.5x0.9 (LxBxW, inches)
- Weight: 184g
- Dust-proof, water-proof(upto 3m), shock-proof( tupto 1.5m)
- Stabilization: MEGA O.I.S
- Movie: HD video in AVCHD Lite, enabling much longer periods of recording
- Other features:Intelligent Auto, Intelligent Exposure, Wind-Cut, Face-Recognition,26 scene modes for still capture and 17 for movie capture
- Minimum shooting distance - 3cm
Build Quality
Rating 
The rugged metal body is the biggest USP of the TS1 and I’m happy to say that the camera doesn’t disappoint at all. The brushed aluminum finishing looks solid and is built to withstand quite a bit of rough use. The body is airtight and is made of shock-resistant material. Rubber padding and carbon resin further reinforce the camera. The lens is covered with reinforced glass and is further protected by a damper to absorb impact. Use of folded optics prevents damage to the lens if it is dropped during use - the internal zooming prevents the lens from protruding out of its compartment, eliminating the chance of it bumping against any hard surface. Panasonic claims the dust-proof design prevents air-borne dust particles from causing damage to the camera. It further claims the TS1 can withstand a drop from up to 1.5m height, and can be used under water, even sea-water, till a depth of up to 3m. Panasonic recommends yearly replacement of the seals to keep the camera in prime condition.
Please continue on to page two of this digital camera review...