Casio's EX-G1 Camera Is Mega-Tough

Equally suited for a high-adventure enthusiast or a user with the coordination of Inspector Clouseau, the shock-resistant Casio EX-G1 will hit the shelves next month at a retail price of $299, the company said Wednesday.

Casio is touting the high-resolution 12.1-megapixel camera as ultra-rugged: The company is positioning it in the "endurance" category, and is targeting it for top athletes and adventurers. To that end, the EX-G1 features modes such as interval shooting and multi-image capture. The interval shooting function can automatically take still photos or movies at fixed intervals, enabling users to capture photographs while engaged in activities such as snowboarding or cycling.

The EX-G1 has a shock-resistant shell which passes drop tests including multiple falls from seven feet, Casio says. Its outer body comprises a two-layer construction with a stainless steel casing. The EX-G1 inner body withstands shock and water damage; a resin cover protects the body side near the shutter and a resin lens ring guards the lens.

A mist-removal option produces clearer pictures when the atmosphere is misty or hazy. In addition, an "underwater best-shot" mode will clarify murky and unclear images taken when diving, for example. According to the company, the EX-G1 can be used at depths at 10 feet for 60 continuous minutes; water will not penetrate the camera even when directly sprayed with jets of water.