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Canon 20D 8.2 MegaPixel Professional Infrared-Enabled Camera 

Models: XNiteCanon20D and XNiteCanon20DIR

 

The Canon 20D has been replaced by the Canon 30D.  We can covert your 20D or 30D.  You can also buy a new 30D Here.

 

The Canon 20D is a professional digital SLR camera.  Because of the nature of the IR enabling modification, we do not recommend this camera to anyone who does not fully understand the implications of the modification.

We can modify this camera to be IR+Visible or IR-Only.  An IR+Visible camera will see both Infrared and Visible light after modification.  An IR-Only camera will only see IR from 715nm through 1200nm.  The IR-Only camera has an internal 715nm IR filter with an antiflection coating.  The 715nm filter performs similarly to the Hoya RM72 and Wratten 89B.

  IR+Visible IR-Only
Model XNiteCanon20D XNiteCanon20DIR
Camera can take normal visible pictures Yes with CC1 filter No
Camera can take IR pictures Yes with external IR filter Yes with no extra filters
Camera autofocus will work with IR pictures No Yes
Camera autoexposure will work with IR pictures No Yes with Exp Comp Adj
User can see through lens when taking IR pictures No Yes.  Filter is internal.
 

Included In Box

• Eyecup

• Neck strap
• Video cable
• Interface cable
• Battery pack
• Battery charger
• Software
 

Benefits

Our modified Canon 20D cameras can take infrared pictures at very high speeds in comparison with a stock camera.  For example, the camera can take an IR picture with a F1.2 lens using a 1000nm cutoff filter in daylight at 1/4000 of a second.  The modified camera is very fast to the point that it can become a problem if you are using too fast of a lens.

A stock camera would need an exposure of many seconds using the same lens + filter combination.

Equivalent Exposures.  Pictures taken under bright, outdoor sun.

Aperture Shutter Speed (Sec) Exposure Comp Filter
F10 1/1000 -1.7 XNiteCC1 (normal photograph)
F10 1/2500 -1.7 No Filter - IR & Visible Light.
F10 1/1000 -1.7 XNite715 - 715nm equiv to 89B or RM72
F10 1/800 -1.7 XNite830 - 830nm equiv to 87C
F10 1/100 -1.7 XNite1000 - 1000nm equiv to 87A or RM100
F2.8 1/1600 -1.7 XNite1000 - 1000nm equiv to 87A or RM100

A stock camera is comparable to using the modified camera with a XNiteCC1 filter.  Under outside sunlight where there is as much IR light as visible light, you will use an Exposure Correction factor of about -1.7.   Notice that while you can take a standard picture at 1/1000 sec / F10 with an IR blocking filter, you can increase shutter speed to 1/2500 sec / F10 with no filter when the camera sees both IR and visible light.  Using a low-cut IR filter like a XNite715 gives you the same 1/1000 sec shutter speed as you have with the visible light / IR blocking photograph.  This is because the modified camera can see as much in the infrared range as it can in the visible range.  If you attempted to take a photograph with a stock camera using a low-cut IR filter like the XNite715, your exposure time would have been measured in seconds - not a fraction of a second.

Further, notice that using a high cut filter like a XNite1000 allows you a 1/100 sec shutter speed at F10 or 1/1600 sec shutter speed at F2.8.  Try that with a stock camera!  

This greatly enhanced near infrared sensitivity makes this camera the choice for professional photographers, astronomical studies, aerial vegetation analysis, geological and mineral exploration and surveillance applications.

Drawbacks on IR+Visible

Using  digital SLR camera means that you look through the lens.  This is great when you can physically see through the lens, but with a true infrared filter on the camera, you will not be able to see anything!  After taking the picture, you can review the shot on the LCD display on the back of the camera. However, the camera image sensor (the CCD) is hidden behind the camera's shutter until you take a picture.  Therefore, you cannot preview an infrared picture prior to taking the shot.

Unlike consumer cameras like the other Sony digital infrared enabled cameras which we sell, the Canon 20D meters light through a separate light sensor.  The typical consumer cameras use the camera's CCD to set exposure.  Since the Canon camera has a separate metering circuit, the camera does not correctly automatically set exposure.  The user must manually set the Exposure Compensation (EC) function.  The amount of correction will vary depending on the ambient infrared light.  We may find a fix for this in the future.

This modified camera sees infrared and visible light simultaneously.  For normal photography, you will need to use an IR blocking filter like our XNiteCC1.  You will need an XNiteCC1 filter for each lens size you plan to use for normal photography.

Modification will void your warranty.

Conclusion

IR+Visible enabled digital SLR camera is only good for somebody who really needs a serious infrared capable digital camera and wants to take visible pictures as well  If you will only be using the camera for infrared, we recommend the IR-Only version because you will be able to see through the lens, autofocus and shoot in automatic modes as long as you dial in the exposure compensation needed beforehand. 

If you are a casual user, you are much better suited getting a camera like the Sony DSC-F828 which doesn't have the exposure compensation issue and only uses one filter size.

If you don't understand the explanation above, do not buy this camera.

We can modify your Canon 20D for a $450 fee + return shipping & handling ($20 for UPS ground insured within continental USA).

Canon's all-new large area CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) Sensor captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range, and offers the most pixels in its class. This 2nd generation APS-C size sensor (22.5 x 15.0mm) has the same 3:2 ratio as film cameras, enabling an effective angle of view that is 1.6x the normal EF Lens focal length. The EOS 20D has an extensive ISO range (from 100 to 1600 plus ISO 3200 in extended mode),and the sensor features a newly developed set of narrow-gap microlenses and noise reduction circuits to improve performance at high ISOs, and optimized photodiode configurations for improved performance at all ISOs. This results in larger, clearer, sharper and more detailed photographs right from the start.

Second Generation DIGIC II Image Processor The EOS 20D benefits from Canon's in-house development: The DIGIC II Image Processor was developed originally for the EOS-1D Mark II and enhances every aspect of image capture. Information captured by the CMOS Sensor is processed and assembled into images of exceptional quality by this new Image Processor. With the DIGIC II Image Processor on board, photographers can expect precise, natural colors, and spot-on white balance in any number of lighting situations. Through sophisticated signal processing algorithms, the DIGIC II Image Processor even accelerates all aspects of image capture, while consuming less energy than other processors.

Every Function Optimized for Speedy RAW and JPEG Capture
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The EOS 20D has been designed to capture images with speeds that had been reserved for professional level cameras. Whether it's the 0.2 second start-up time, the high speed mirror drive, the class-leading 65 msec. shutter release lag time, or the predictive AF focusing at speeds up to 5 frames-per-second, the EOS 20D will amaze and delight photographers who don't want to wait for their camera when they're ready to shoot. The 20D's CMOS Sensor allows 4-channel high-speed data readout, and the DIGIC II Image Processor processes the data quickly, writing files to the CompactFlash card faster, and allowing continuous shooting for up to 23 frames (JPEG Large/Fine) with significant reductions in buffer clearing times.

JPEG or Simultaneous RAW+JPEG Whenever you shoot the EOS 20D, you can choose to have it record RAWs or JPEGs alone, or in RAW plus JPEG formats simultaneously. The JPEG recording format is ideal for purposes such as Internet image transfers that require reduced file sizes. Canon's proprietary RAW (.CR2) format, on the other hand, employs lossless compression to ensure the highest possible image quality, and is recorded at 12-bits per pixel to provide a wider range of tones and superior detail in bright highlights and deep shadows when compared with JPEG files. RAW files must be "processed" before they can be opened in your computer's image-editing software. This conversion process typically takes only a few seconds using the dedicated driver software, which will convert the RAW file into a standard 8-bit per channel JPEG or TIFF file, or for maximum tonal range, a 16-bit TIFF. There are six selectable settings for in-camera JPEG image quality, when CF card space is at a premium.

Expansive Sensor Array for Easier Composition
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The EOS 20D has a newly developed high-precision 9-point AF system for speedy and accurate focusing in any situation. An improved focusing screen with precision matte finish enables brighter and easier manual focus. A newly developed multi-controller, conveniently located on the back of the camera for thumb-controlled action, allows the photographer to instantly choose any of the 9 focus points, or direct the camera to choose them automatically. Focusing points are positioned in the viewfinder in a wide diamond-shaped array, allowing the user to achieve focus quickly in numerous compositions and situations.

Features formerly offered only in Canon's Pro Cameras allow for more fine-tuning.
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Photographers will find their options for color settings greatly expanded in the new EOS 20D. Taken directly from the EOS-1D Mark II, the White Balance compensation function utilizes the new multi-controller and a nifty LCD monitor display to tune any white balance setting up to +/- 9 steps in blue, amber, magenta or green hues to ensure spot-on color. The new White Balance bracketing feature produces a series of 3 files varying white balance from magenta to green or blue to amber, depending on the lighting situation.

Images can be processed directly for the industry print standard Adobe RGB or standard sRGB, and are compatible with DCF 2.0 and Exif 2.21 standards for greater flexibility. A range of in-camera image processing parameters can optimize JPEG files for direct printing or post processing, or can be customized to the user's tastes and needs.

The EOS 20D also features a built-in monochrome mode, a first in Canon Digital SLRs, which uses digital processing to re-create the effects of a number of different black and white filters and toning effects. These features help to take the guesswork out of black-and-white photography, reducing the need for post processing by delivering the desired detail and contrast of a black and white image from the start

Strength and Elegance Combined
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The EOS 20D feels solid and rugged in your hands ensuring stable, easy handling. Its rigid chassis combines engineering plastic with stainless steel and is covered by strong, lightweight magnesium alloy panels on the top, front and rear. Controls are ergonomically shaped and positioned to sustain the EOS tradition of ergonomic excellence and sure-fire operation. The newly designed grip, shutter button and rubber skin contribute to this excellent holding comfort, and the camera's high-profile built-in flash is compact and hides itself neatly into the top of the body. A newly refined finish adds to the elegance of the camera body.

Expanded Zoom Display During Playback
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While viewing recorded images on the camera's 1.8-inch, high-definition TFT color LCD, you can enter the Enlargement Mode and enlarge them up to 10x in 15 stops for detailed analysis of lighting, composition, camera movement, focusing accuracy, facial expression, etc. The new multi-controller enables horizontal and vertical scrolling, while the main dial enables viewing of the previous or next image stored in the CF card at the same enlarged view. In the maximum reduced view, nine images are displayed simultaneously on the approximately screen, making them quicker to find. The camera can be set to automatically rotate vertical images so they can be viewed easily on the monitor and also after downloading to your computer.

Direct Printing with PictBridge Compatible Printers

The EOS 20D lets you print beautiful photos with minimum time and effort - directly from the camera. Simply connect the camera with any PictBridge compatible printer via the high-speed USB 2.0 port to print images stored in the CF card. You can even set the EOS 20D to trim the image, add a surrounding "frame," superimpose a date, or print a number of copies. The EOS 20D's direct printing feature complies with Exif v2.2 (Exif Print) and DPOF v1.1. With a host of portable and home printers available from Canon including the new PIXMA iP4000 and PIXMA iP3000 Photo Printers, getting tangible results from the camera has never been faster or easier.

Software

The EOS 20D comes bundled with three software CDs, Canon's Digital Photo Professional (Version 1.1), the EOS Solution Disk (Version 8.0), and Photoshop Elements 2.0. Each application is designed to optimize captured images, and streamline the digital workflow.

Digital Photo Professional (Version 1.1)

This software provides easy to use RAW conversion tools, including high-speed RAW image processing, high-speed previewing for real-time image adjustment, and support for sRGB, Adobe RGB and Wide Gamut RGB color spaces. CMS (Color Management System) compatible, DPP allows for easy image layout and printing in Adobe RGB in conjunction with Easy-PhotoPrint and compatible printers.

EOS Solution Disk

The EOS Solution Disk includes EOS Viewer Utility, which provides dedicated support for downloading, remote control operation via EOS Capture and simple RAW image adjustment. In addition, it provides a favorites folder for special images, a checkmark editing function and PhotoStitch, which merges images to form large panoramics.

Photoshop Elements 2.0

Photoshop Elements 2.0 is an all purpose photo application which features an expansive range of image editing tools. Whether cropping or resizing, changing exposure or tone settings, or resaving images for special purposes like the web or for output, Photoshop Elements is an excellent tool for the digital photographer.

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EF & EF-S Lenses
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The EOS 20D is compatible with all Canon lenses in the EF lineup, ranging from ultra-wide-angle to super-telephoto lenses, and including Canon's new EF-S series lenses, manufactured specifically for the 20D and Digital Rebel. The EF lineup employs advanced optical know-how and micron precision engineering to deliver unprecedented performance in all facets of the photographic process. Aspherical optics and Fluorite elements, for example, are featured in the universally acclaimed L-series Lenses. Canon's Image Stabilization feature minimizes the effect of camera shake. Through Canon's EF Lenses, photographers can truly maximize the quality and liberating performance of the EOS 20D.

EOS 20D users will find the all-new EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens a perfect match for their new camera. It offers a 35mm equivalent of 27-136mm zoom range, includes Canon's Image Stabilizer (which adds an equivalent of 3 stops), a full-time manual focus mechanism, all in a compact, robust construction.

For wide-angle aficionados, the new EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM (available in October, 2004) provides the shortest minimum focal length ever offered in an interchangeable digital SLR lens (excluding fisheye lenses). With a 35mm equivalent 16-35mm zoom range, high-speed USM autofocus and full-time manual focus, the EF-S 10-22mm zoom lens significantly expands the versatility of the EOS 20D.

Flash Photography

The EOS 20D features the acclaimed E-TTL II flash metering system introduced with the EOS-1D Mark II. Whether using its flush mounted integral flash (guide no. of 43/13 @ ISO 100 m/ft.) or any of the flashes in the EX Speedlite line, E-TTL II provides stable flash brightness through numerous exposures.

Canon's new Speedlite 580EX is perfectly suited to the EOS 20D. It includes a maximum guide no. of 190/58 @ ISO 100 m/ft., which, when mounted on the EOS 20D, automatically compensates for the EOS 20D's sensor size, enabling high output flash, with more flashes per charge. It includes an AF-assist Beam, which works in conjunction with the EOS 20D's focusing system, and automatically sends color temperature information to the camera when the flash fires, for more accurate color rendition with flash photography.

Additional Accessories

In addition to Canon's EF series of lenses and Speedlites, several other accessories are designed to work specifically with the EOS 20D. The Battery Grip BG-E2 adds a vertical shutter release, and is compatible with up to two of Canon's BP-511/511A/512/514 Lithium-ion battery packs, or alternatively a set of six AA batteries, for greater convenience when traveling. Canon's Semi Hard Case EH/7-L can accommodate the EOS 20D with a small zoom lens (EF-S17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM included), and the EOS 20D is compatible with Canon's DVK-E2 image data verification kit to check original image data authenticity, whenever verification is essential

 

 

 

                                

 

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Last modified: June 18, 2015