The launch of the D1 series in 1999 began with the D1 digital SLR camera, followed by the D1X, a professional model with increased pixel-count and then D1H, offering high-speed shooting. In 2003, Nikon released the D2H with innovative functions and operations, as well as a new lightweight and easy-to-handle body. Since that time, there has been a demand for a digital SLR camera that provides the high performance of the D2H with an even higher pixel-count.

Since the launch of the D1 in 1999, all Nikon digital SLR cameras, from consumer-class to professional models, have utilized Nikon DX-format image sensors of the same size. Following in the footsteps of the D2H, the D2X provides the same performance and design innovations combined with a Nikon DX-format image sensor that delivers a higher pixel-count. Improved image quality made possible by the higher pixel-count of the D2X is achieved by incorporating a new CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor with an effective pixel-count of 12.4 megapixels.

Added to this, shooting speed in continuous shooting mode has been increased by using a 4-channel output method with the improvement of the speed of transferring image data from the image sensor to a memory card. This improvement allows the D2X to capture 12.4 megapixel JPEG images or RAW image at a rate of 5 frames per second in continuous shooting mode.

In addition to the new dual-area image sensor, all image-processing functions have been either newly developed or refined. Tone characteristics have been improved with both analog and digital processing for optimum color distribution. Moreover, the enhanced accuracy of digital processing in the ASIC provides smoother shading in gradual color changes, important for subjects, like a blue sky with very subtle tone changes within the blue range.

The combination of image-processing technologies and 3D-Color Matrix Metering II improved with new algorithms found in the D2X makes it possible to capture beautiful 12.4-megapixel images that will fulfill photographers’ needs for larger files that are rich in detail, color and smooth tone range.

As part of Nikon’s Total Imaging System, the D2X is compatible with Nikon’s digital-exclusive DX Nikkor lenses as well as Nikon’s 35mm/digital compatible AF Nikkor System. When used with the SB-800 or SB-600 Speedlights, the D2X also maximizes the potential of Nikon’s Creative Lighting System with high precision flash performance including i-TTL flash control and support for Nikon’s Advanced Wireless Lighting system.

Nikon has also developed a new cable, the MC-35, which enables connection of the camera to a GPS device for including information such as latitude, longitude and altitude at the time of capture with shooting data.

The design of the camera’s ergonomic styling is adopted from one created by famed industrial designer Giorgetto Giugiaro* exclusively for a new generation of Nikon camera.

• New image sensor with 12.4 effective megapixels
• Support for the reproduction of colors in the sYCC range, and support for the broader range of colors in the Adobe RGB profile
• New image processing algorithm produces high-quality images
• Continuous shooting at 5 fps at 12.4 megapixel, 8 fps at 6.8 megapixel
• High-Speed Crop function
• Faster read/write speed for the memory card and a USB 2.0 interface for faster image transfer
• Creative in-camera effects, Image Overlay and Multiple Exposure
• Advanced 3D-Color Matrix Metering II to prevent highlight portions from being washed out
• The 2.5-inch LCD monitor large enough to display various settings and information for easy recognition
• Functions such as World Time, automatic rotation of images captured in portrait (tall) orientation
• GPS support for the recording of location information with shooting data
• 37ms release time lag
• A body designed with emphasis on ease of operation, durability and high performance level of waterdrop & dust-resistance
• The same level of precision found with the D2H with the same 11-area AF system, ambient light sensor and 1,005-pixel RGB sensor adopted
• The D2X supports mounting of the SB-800 and SB-600 Speedlights for Nikon’s Creative Lighting System compatibility
• Support for the Wireless Transmitter WT-1/1A and the new IEEE802.11b/g compatible WT-2/2A for transferring image files directly from the D2X over a wireless LAN
• Increased enjoyment of digital images is possible with an upgraded version of Nikon’s PictureProject software, designed for use with D2X
• Support for Nikon Capture 4 (version 4.2), a software application with a variety of tools to assist the professional photographer
• Creating secure interface with a memory card