3 CCD
The XL1s maximises the capability of the DV format
by using a 3 CCD system assigning a separate CCD to
each primary color (red, green, blue). A beam-
splitting prism precisely separates the light passing
through the lens into individual color components,
and each is sent to its own CCD. This process
achieves outstanding detail with highly accurate
color reproduction suitable for the demands of the
high-end production field – wide dynamic range, low
color noise, natural color resolution and low aliasing.
Pixel Shift
Canon solves common shooting dilemmas by using
a signal processing technique called Pixel Shift,
which has been used in professional grade video
cameras for many years. It achieves wider dynamic
range, brighter video in low light, reduced vertical
smearing and sharper digital photos.
High Resolution Even In Low Light
The XL1s incorporates three CCD image sensors
specifically designed for freedom when shooting under
extremely low light conditions. The size of each pixel is
72 square microns. That’s 150% larger than the pixel-
size on comparable models. The result is approximately
an overall 14 dB improvement in sensitivity.
Three Different Shooting Modes
for All Your Recording Needs
Normal Movie Mode
By merging Canon’s superior lens quality with
3 CCD’s, the XL1s delivers stunning resolution and
color reproduction - some of the best images outside
of a TV studio. This mode records video in the
standard interlaced fashion similar to conventional
camcorders. Normal Movie Mode is ideal for
recording video, which appears smooth and natural
during playback on a TV or video editing computer.
Digital Photo Mode with Self Timer
Take almost 700 brilliantly clear still pictures on
a single tape (in SP mode). The photo mode further
distinguishes the XL1s by capturing extremely high
resolution still images. The camera records the still
pictures for approximately 6 seconds, as well as
recording the sound for your verbal notes or
narration. You can search through the recorded tape
for your photos using the supplied remote control.
Frame Movie Mode
This mode captures video in a unique non-interlaced
method allowing the XL1s to record 25 frames of
video per second. Similar to a motor drive on
a 35 mm camera, Frame Movie Mode performs like
a Digital Motor Drive. You’ll capture every gesture
and expression of your subject with spectacular
clarity. It’s perfect for users who choose to grab high
quality still images from video for making prints,
video for website content, or even sending
emotionally charged images over the internet. The
non-interlaced method popularised by Canon’s XL1s
has even been acknowledged by users for its
cinematic-like appearance.
3 CCD Pixel Shift Technology for Super-High Resolution
