Nikon manufactures some of the most widely used digital cameras in the world. Upon its introduction, the Nikon D40 offered class-leading image quality, backed up by a reliable system of lenses and accessories. What the D40 lacks in size it makes up for in performance and value for the money.
Camera Introduction
Nikon introduced the 6.1 megapixel D40 in 2006. The camera superseded Nikon's D50, immediately receiving accolades and winning numerous awards. The Nikon D40 weighs less than its predecessors, possesses more sophisticated technical features and was sold at a lower price point than older model Nikon digital cameras. The D40 introduced a new concept for Nikon cameras. It was the first Nikon digital camera to not have an internal focus motor. Instead, the D40 only uses CPU contacts. This limited the number of Nikon lenses that had full compatibility on the D40.
Basic Specifications and Features
The D40 features a 6.1 megapixel CCD (charge-coupled device) DX format sensor. The DX format sensor is smaller than the actual size of a frame of 35mm film (24mm x 36mm). The smaller sensor creates a 1.5x field of view crop compared to an FX or full frame sensor. Additional features include an automatic ISO range of 100 to 1600, plus a boost to 3200 in Hi 1 mode, a 2.5-inch TFT LCD screen with 230,000 pixels, and the ability to accept SD and SDHC memory cards. The D40 features seven picture control options that determine how the final image looks. It also features a shutter speed range between 30-seconds to 1/4,000 of a second and five shutter release options. The D40 also features five exposure control modes and offers eight advanced scene-shooting modes. The D40 measures 5.0-inches wide, 3.7-inches high and 2.5-inches deep. The camera body weighs one pound without the battery and 1.2 pounds with the battery.
Lens Compatibility
Because the D40 lacks the mechanical focus drive pin found on earlier Nikon models, the camera only has full compatibility with a limited selection of Nikon and independently manufactured lenses. Fully compatible lenses allow the camera to autofocus the lens and make use of the D40's 3D Color Matrix Metering II system. Fully compatible lenses carry the designations AF-S or AF-I. Other AF lenses made for Nikon, excluding lenses made for the F3AF and AI-P bodies, work on the D40 and support all features of the camera except autofocus and 3D Color Matrix Metering II.
Accessories
Like all Nikon DSLR cameras, the D40 has a full range of optional accessory equipment. Optional equipment includes a rectangular right-angle viewfinder, infrared wireless remote control, semi-soft camera case, power bracket and Camera Control Pro software.
Tags: also features, Color Matrix, Color Matrix Metering, compatible lenses, digital cameras