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Sigma Lens Optimizer Dock Due In May Tweet This   Forward This

25 April 2013

logo Sigma has announced it will ship its USB dock in early May for $59. The dock attaches to the lens mount of Sigma's new Global Vision lenses to connect the lens to a computer for firmware updates and microfocusing adjustments.

The company's Optimization Pro software can read the firmware version of the lens, compare it to the latest version available on the Sigma site and optionally update the lens to any later version.

In addition to the firmware update, though, four microfocus zones (for different focus areas from near to infinity) can be adjusted within the lens. A single microfocus adjustment for any lens is available in some dSLR bodies. One a prime lens there are just the four zones. But a zoom might have as many as four sets of four zones, for a total of 16 possible adjustments.

A device like Michael Tapes' LensAlign, which we've previously reviewed can help determine what microfocus adjustment is actually needed.

Sigma also noted that the autofocus speed, focus limiter and optical stabilizer function on its Sports lenses can be adjusted with the software.

Optimization Pro, USB Dock Demo. Microfocus adjustments in four zones are made to both a prime and zoom lens.

Why can't the software simply be run on a cable-connected camera?

We suspect the problem is telling the camera (which could from any of several manufacturers) to write information to the lens. With its own USB dock, Sigma can talk directly to the lens.

The company also announced its updated 120-300mm f2.8 DG OS HSM zoom will ship in May for $3,599.

Details in the release below.

Sigma Corp. Announces Pricing And Availability For New 120-300Mm F2.8 Lens And USB Dock

Global Vision products hit shelves in U.S. early May

RONKONKOMA, N.Y. -- April 24-- Sigma Corp. of America has announced the pricing and availability of the Sigma USB dock and the company's newly redesigned 120-300mm f2.8 DG OS HSM from the Global Vision Sport lens category.

The updated 120-300mm f2.8 DG OS HSM lens will be available in early May for the street price of $3,599 in Sigma and Canon mounts. The USB dock, which is compatible with lenses from Sigma's new Global Vision lineup, will also be available in early May for the street price of $59.

"As the first lens of our Sports lineup to become available, we're glad to continue the next round of our Global Vision lenses with the 120-300mm F2.8," said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corp. of America. "Our USB dock is the first in the industry of its kind and we're confident that it will be a ground-breaking product in helping photographers as they work."

With redesigned mechanics and performance, this Sports lens is an update from its predecessor released in February 2011. With a maximum focal length of 300mm and a wide-open aperture of f2.8, this lens eases difficult shooting conditions. It is dust and moisture resistant and allows users to switch between two custom settings created via the USB dock. The 120-300mm lens has been redesigned and quality-control tested with Sigma's proprietary modulation transfer function "A1" measuring system as part of Sigma's new Global Vision category restructuring. Under the new Sports category, the lens also has the manufacturing year stamped on the barrel.

The Sigma USB dock, an industry first, works in conjunction with Sigma Optimization Pro software to connect a photographer's lens to their personal computer and the Internet to update firmware and other parameters. The AF speed, focus limiter and OS function are also customizable for Sports lenses, such as the 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM. Upon arrival of the products, SOP will be available via a downloadable copy online here. A video demonstration of SOP software is available here.


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