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Tokyo, Japan, June 15, 1999 — Nikon, long and widely recognised for their world-class professional SLR cameras, have artfully combined this experience with the very latest digital technology in creating the Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera D1, which features three basic concepts — ultrahigh image quality, superhigh speed and enhanced operability.

The D1 boasts optical and digital innovations such as improved overall picture quality, souped-up consecutive-shooting capabilities and broader compatibility, all packed into a lightweight and strong magnesium body. With high resistance to penetration by water drops, the D1 is fully equipped to satisfy the demands of professional and high-end amateur photographers.

The D1 features a large 23.7 x 15.6mm 2.74-megapixel CCD for ultrahigh-definition 2,012 x 1,324-pixel images. Superior results are further ensured by the infrared ray (IR)-cutting, ultra-thin lithium niobate (LiNB) Low-Pass Filter located directly in front of the CCD, and optimal signal processing delivered by Nikon’s original algorithm.

The D1 provides 3D Digital Matrix Image Control (3D Colour Matrix Metering, TTL White Balance and Tone Compensation) with a 1,005-pixel CCD for optimum results. The camera’s three intelligent exposure metering systems — 3D Colour Matrix, Centre-Weighted and Spot Metering; and three auto exposure modes — Programmed, Shutter-Priority and Aperture-Priority, together with exposure compensation and automatic bracketing functions, offer precise, comprehensive exposure control. 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for D1 controlled by five-segment TTL Multi Sensor, possible with the new Speedlight SB-28DX, and versatile Flash sync modes — Front-Curtain Sync (normal sync), Red-Eye Reduction, Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync, Slow Sync and Rear-Curtain Sync, add to the D1’s versatility.

In order to give experienced users more control over quality, the D1 incorporates versatile image quality modes. Uncompressed Image provides users with three options: Raw (12-bit)*, TIFF YCbCr (8-bit)* and TIFF RGB (8-bit). Compressed Image offers JPEG-baseline-compressed approx. 1/4, 1/8 and 1/16 and monochrome mode. Add to this the four-step Sensitivity Control (ISO equivalency 200, 400, 800, 1,600) provided.
* Optional software is needed to reproduce Raw or YCbCr-TIFF images; “Nikon Capture” for Raw images, “Nikon View DX” for YCbCr-TIFF images

The D1’s quick start and short shutter release time lag (approx. 0.058 sec. from the time the shutter release button is lightly pressed) give users the speed to capture once-elusive moments. Super-fast data processing made possible by the newly developed ASIC enables consecutive shooting at 4.5 fps for up to 21 shots. The D1 also boasts 1/16,000 sec. maximum shutter speed and 1/500 sec. sync speed.

The large, easy-to-view LCD monitor (2-in. low-temperature, polysilicon TFT) displays the captured images, menus and histogram indications.

Features that boost convenience include the high-speed data transfer capability provided by IEEE1394, the broad data compatibility furnished by the CompactFlash™ Card (Type I/II), and the NTSC/ PAL-selectable video output, optional Interchangeable Ni-MH Battery Pack EN-4 and dedicated Quick Charger MH-16 (compatible with MH-15 for F100). From Nikon’s critically acclaimed F5 and F100 SLR cameras, the D1 has inherited Custom Settings, which lets users create their own combination of 29 functions including the D1’s original features such as Tone Compensation and Edge Enhancer; two Command Dials; and remarkable durability.

Compatibility with Nikon system accessories, including over 80 F-mount Nikkor lenses, is another notable advantage of the D1, and is directed at the professional photographer with wide-ranging needs.

Nikon’s D1 — offering all this to deliver the quality, flexibility and operability that experienced users demand.


D1 Major Features

2.74-megapixel, 23.7 x 15.6mm-size CCD for ultrahigh-definition (2,012 x 1,324 effective pixels) images
• Ultra-thin lithium niobate (LiNB) Low-Pass Filter (also cuts infrared rays) incorporated just in front of CCD
• Four-step sensitivity control (ISO equivalency 200, 400, 800 and 1,600)
• Multiple image quality modes: JPEG Baseline (approx. 1/4, 1/8, 1/16 compressed), uncompressed (12-bit Raw*, 8-bit YCbCr-TIFF*, 8-bit RGB-TIFF), monochrome mode
* Optional software is needed to reproduce Raw or YCbCr-TIFF images; “Nikon Capture” for Raw images, “Nikon View DX” for YCbCr-TIFF images
• Versatile shooting modes; 1) Single frame shooting, 2) Continuous shooting, 3) Self-timer, 4) Playback, 5) PC
3D Digital Matrix Image Control (3D Colour Matrix Metering, TTL White Balance and Tone Compensation) with 1,005-pixel CCD for superior overall picture quality
Single-blade mechanical shutter provided for smear prevention
• Optimal signal processing thanks to Nikon’s original algorithm
• High-speed AF system including Dynamic AF operation (same performance as F5 and F100)
4.5 fps shooting speed for up to 21 consecutive shots
• Quick startup and 0.058 sec. shutter time lag
• Exclusive top shutter speed 1/16,000 sec.
• Flash sync up to 1/500 sec.
• High-speed data transfer with IEEE1394 interface
• Accelerated data processing using newly developed ASIC
• Precise exposure modes; 1) [] Programmed Auto, 2) [] Shutter-Priority Auto, 3) [] Aperture-Priority Auto, 4) [] Manual
• Three exposure metering systems; 1) 3D Colour Matrix Metering with 1,005-pixel CCD, 2) Centre-Weighted, 3) Spot
• Exposure compensation available in ±5 EV range, in 1/2 or 1/3 EV steps
• Auto Exposure Bracketing available for two or three shots in 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 step
3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for D1 controlled by five-segment TTL Multi Sensor with new Speedlight SB-28DX
• Five flash sync modes; 1) Front-Curtain Sync (normal sync), 2) Red-Eye Reduction, 3) Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync, 4) Slow Sync, 5) Rear-Curtain Sync
29 Custom Settings
• Lightweight and strong magnesium body
• High resistance to penetration by water drops
• Optical viewfinder with frame coverage of approx. 96%
• Dioptre adjustment (-3 to +1 DP)
• High eyepoint (higher than 22mm)
• Eyepiece shutter provided
• Interchangeable focusing screen (compatible with focusing screen for F100)
2-in., 120,000-dot low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD with histogram indication
• Convenient playback functions; 1) 1 frame, 2) Thumbnail (9 segments), 3) Slide show, 4) Histogram indication
• Two Command Dials
• Compatible with virtually any F-mount Nikkor /lens (Picture angle with D1 is
equivalent to 1.5x focal length in 35mm [135] format)
• Compatible with CompactFlash™ (CF) Card (Type I/II)
• Compatible with Nikon system accessories
Interchangeable Ni-MH Battery Pack EN-4 and dedicated Quick Charger MH-16 (compatible with battery charger MH-15 for F100) (all optional)
• Remote terminal (10-pin connection)
• Video output switchable between NTSC and PAL
• “Nikon View DX” Browser Software, “Nikon Capture” Control Software (optional)


Nikon D1 Specifications

Type of Camera Lens-interchangeable SLR-type digital camera
CCD 23.7 x 15.6mm RGB CCD; 2.74 million total pixels;
2.66-million effective pixels (2,012 x 1,324 array);
captures 12-bit full-colour image
Image Size 2,000 x 1,312 pixels
Sensitivity ISO equivalency 200, 400, 800, 1,600
Storage System: Digitally stored;
JPEG Baseline (approx. 1/4, 1/8, 1/16 compressed),
uncompressed (12-bit Raw*, 8-bit YCbCr-TIFF*,
8-bit RGB-TIFF), monochrome mode
* Optional software is needed to reproduce images;
“Nikon Capture” for Raw/YCbCr-TIFF images,
“Nikon View DX” for YCbCr-TIFF images
Media: CompactFlashTM (CF) Card (Type I/II)
Modes and No. of frames (With EC-64CF 64MB CF Card):
Raw (uncompressed Raw) — approx. 16
Hi (uncompressed YCbCr-TIFF) — approx. 12
Hi (uncompressed RGB-TIFF) — approx. 7
Fine (approx. 1/4 compressed) — approx. 48
Normal (approx. 1/8 compressed) — approx. 97
Basic (approx. 1/16 compressed) — approx. 195
Shooting Modes 1) Single frame shooting (S) mode: advances one frame for each shutter release; capture preview mode available
2) Continuous shooting (C) mode: approx. 4.5 frames per sec. (up to 21 consecutive shots)
3) Self-timer (Sf) mode: time duration can be set
4) Playback (Pb) mode: playback, menu setting
5) PC (Pc) mode: data transfer via personal computer
White Balance 1) Auto (TTL control with 1,005-pixel CCD)
2) Manual (6 settings with 7-step fine tuning)
3) Preset
LCD Monitor 2-in., 120,000-dot, low temp. polysilicon TFT LCD; backlight/brightness adjustment available
Playback Menu 1) Protect setting, 2) Hide setting, 3) NTSC/PAL switching,
4) Indication directory switching
Playback Function 1) 1 frame, 2) Thumbnail (9 segments), 3) Slide show,
4) Histogram indication and highlight point display
Delete Function 1) Card format, 2) All frames delete, 3) Selected frames delete
Video Output NTSC or PAL (switchable)
Interface IEEE1394
Exposure Mode 1) [] Programmed Auto (Flexible Programme possible)
2) [] Shutter-Priority Auto
3) [] Aperture-Priority Auto
4) [] Manual; shutter speed/aperture adjustable in 1/2 or 1/3 EV steps
Usable Lenses 1) D-type AF Nikkor: All functions possible
2) D-type Manual-Focus Nikkor: All functions except autofocus possible
3) AF Nikkor other than D-type: All functions except 3D Colour Matrix Metering and 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for D1 possible,
4) AI-P Nikkor: All functions except 3D Colour Matrix Metering, 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for D1 and autofocus possible
5) Non-CPU: Usable in [] or [] mode, Centre-Weighted or Spot Metering;
Electronic Rangefinder usable with lens with maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster
Note: When Non-CPU lenses are used, [] mode is selected automatically for [] or [] mode, also Centre-Weighted Metering is selected for 3D Colour Matrix Metering.
Picture Angle Approx. 1.5x focal length in 35mm [135] format equivalent
Viewfinder Optical-type fixed-eye level pentaprism;
built-in dioptre adjustment (-3 to +1 DP);
eyepiece shutter provided
Eyepoint 22mm (at -1.0 DP)
Focusing Screen B-type BriteView clear Matte screen III;
interchangeable with optional E-type screen with grid for F100
Viewfinder Frame Coverage Approx. 96%
Viewfinder Magnification Approx. 0.8x with 50mm lens set to infinity and -1.0 DP
Viewfinder Information Focus indications, shutter speed, aperture,
exposure mode, metering system, shutter speed lock, aperture lock, AE lock, electronic analogue display, frame counter, ready-light, five sets of focus brackets (area)
Reflex Mirror Automatic, instant-return type
Lens Aperture Instant-return type, with depth-of-field preview button
Autofocus TTL phase detection, Nikon Multi-CAM1300 autofocus module;
Detection range: EV -1 to EV 19 (ISO 100 equivalent, at normal temperature)
Lens Servo 1) Single Servo AF (S)
2) Continuous Servo AF (C)
3) Manual focus (M)
Focus Tracking automatically activated by subject’s status in (S) or (C) AF
Focus Area One of five focus areas can be selected
AF Area Mode 1) Single Area AF
2) Dynamic AF (Dynamic AF Mode with Closest Subject Priority is available)
Focus Lock Focus is locked by pressing button or lightly pressing shutter release button in (S) AF
Exposure Metering System TTL full-aperture exposure metering system;
1) 3D Colour Matrix Metering with 1,005-pixel CCD
2) Centre-Weighted Metering (75% of the meter’s sensitivity concentrated on the 8mm dia. circle)
3) Spot Metering (4mm dia. circle, approx. 2% of entire frame)
Exposure Metering Range 1) 3D Colour Matrix Metering: EV 0-20
2) Centre-Weighted Metering: EV 0-20
3) Spot Metering: EV 2-20 (at normal temperature, ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens)
Exposure Meter Coupling CPU and AI combined
Exposure Compensation Exposure compensated in ±5 EV range in 1/2 or 1/3 EV steps; the mark appears in viewfinder information and top LCD panel
Auto Exposure Lock Detected exposure value locked by pressing button
Auto Exposure Bracketing Number of shots: two or three
Compensation steps: 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 steps
Shutter Charge-coupled electronic and mechanical shutters
Shutter Speeds 30 to 1/16,000 sec. and Bulb
Sync Contact X-contact only; flash synchronisation up to 1/500 sec.
Flash Control 1) Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash controlled by five-segment TTL Multi Sensor:
• 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for D1 when used with SB-28DX and D-type Nikkor lens
• Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash when used with SB-28DX and AF Nikkor other than D-type, AI-P Nikkor lens
2) AA (Auto Aperture)-type Flash available when used with SB-28DX and lens with built-in CPU
3) Non-TTL Auto Flash with a Speedlight such as SB-28DX, 28, 27, 22s, etc.
Flash Sync Mode 1) Front-Curtain Sync (normal sync)
2) Red-Eye Reduction
3) Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync
4) Slow Sync
5) Rear-Curtain Sync
Ready-light Lights up when flash fully charged with Speedlight SB-28DX, 28, 27, 22s; blinks (3 sec. after flash) for full output warning
Accessory Shoe Standard ISO-type hot-shoe contact; safety lock provided
Sync Terminal Standard JIS terminal, lock screw provided
Self-timer Electronically controlled; timer duration: 2-20 sec.
Depth-of-field Preview Button Stop-down lens aperture** by pressing depth-of-field preview button
** Selected aperture on [] or [] mode; controlled aperture on [] or [] mode
LCD Panel Information Top LCD panel: Exposure value (shutter speed/aperture), exposure mode, exposure compensation, exposure compensation value, aperture/shutter speed lock, flash sync mode, focus area, exposure bracketing information, electronic analogue display, battery power, CF Card confirmation, number of shots taken, number of shots remaining, frame number at playback battery power for built-in clock, date/time
Rear LCD panel: Number of shots remaining, sensitivity, white balance mode, image quality mode, monochrome mode, CF Card status, LCD monitor status, Custom function
Remote Control Via 10-pin remote terminal, IEEE1394 interface
Power Requirements Ni-MH Battery Pack EN-4 (7.2V DC),
Quick Charger MH-16/15;
AC Adaptor EH-4 (100-240V AC)
Tripod Socket 1/4 in. (JIS)
Custom Settings
#0 Custom settings: Specify the two setting combinations of A and B
#1 Capture preview mode: Set to show captured image on LCD Monitor before sending image data to CF Card
#2 EV steps for exposure control
#3 Bracketing order
#4 Autofocus activation
#5 Anti-Vibration mode: Set to prevent effects of camera shake
#6 Focus area selection
#7 AE lock
#8 Mirror-Up: Set to clean the CCD
#9 Dynamic AF mode in (S) AF
#10 Dynamic AF mode in (C) AF
#11 Auto Exposure/Flash Exposure Bracketing
#12 Command Dial functions
#13 Exposure compensation settings
#14 Centre-Weighted Metering area: Change 8mm dia. circle to 6, 10, 13mm or average metering
#15 Time delay for auto meter-switch-off
#16 Self-timer duration
#17 LCD illumination
#18 Auto power off of LCD Monitor: 20 sec., 1, 5 or 10 min.
#19 Aperture setting during zooming
#20 Shutter release indication via self-timer LED
#21 AE-L/AF-L button
#22 Aperture selection: Change via Sub-Command Dial to lens’ aperture ring
#23 Edge enhancer: 1) Default, 2) Low, 3) High, 4) Non
#24 Tone compensation: 1) Auto, 2) Normal, 3) Contrast -,
4) Contrast +, 5) Custom (with “Nikon Capture” Control Software)
#25 Shooting speed in (C) mode: 4.5, 3, 2, 1 or 0.5 fps
#26 Maximum number of consecutive shots in (C) mode: Choose from 1 to 21 shots
#27 LCD monitor setting: 1) Default, 2) Histogram, 3) Highlight point,
4) Highlight point with Histogram
#28 Save Raw images
#29 Auto File Numbering mode
#30 Select shooting mode when disconnected from personal computer in (Pc) mode: (s) mode or (C) mode
Dimensions (W x H x D) Approx. 157 x 153 x 85mm (6.2 x 6.1 x 3.4 in.)
Weight (without battery) Approx. 1.1kg (2.5 lbs.)
Standard Accessories*** Neck Strap, Video Cable
Optional Accessories Ni-MH Battery Pack EN-4, Quick Charger MH-16, AC Adaptor EH-4, CompactFlash™ Cards, Speedlight SB-28DX, IEEE1394 Cable SC-D1, Antifog Finder Eyepiece DK-15, “Nikon View DX” Browser Software, “Nikon Capture” Control Software
*** Standard accessories may differ in each country or area.

Products and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Specifications and equipment are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer. June, 1999