Canon RC-260 (1991)
A Hi-band still video camera from Canon's ION series, sold under different names in different regions.
Overview
The Canon RC-260, also known as the Canon Ion RC-260, is a still video camera released by Canon in 1991 as a follow-up to the RC-250. Canon unveiled it at Photokina 1990 and launched it in early 1991. It was sold as the Xapshot in the United States, the Q-PIC in Japan, and simply the RC-260 in Europe. It belongs to Canon's ION series of analog video-based still cameras, which record images onto analog video media.
Design
A strap activates the macro mode. There is a threaded mount on the bottom for attaching accessories. The camera is classed as a Hi-band still video camera, which means a better analog video signal and higher image resolution.
Context
The RC-260 followed the RC-250 and came before digital sensors took over. It shares a product line with the RC-251 (ION) and the RC-250 (XAP SHOT). The series was a niche one, aimed at early adopters of electronic photography.
Market
The camera was sold as a kit with the body, battery pack, AC adapter, video cable, shoulder strap, instruction manual, and a molded hard case. It is described as rare in the U.S. today. A teardown of the device has been documented.
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