Canon’s CMOS (complementary metal oxide
semiconductor) sensor captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range,
and offers the most pixels in its class. It offers many of the same new
technologies to maximize each pixel’s light gathering efficiency that were first
seen with the professional EOS-1D Mark III model. It’s an APS-C size sensor
(22.2 x 14.8mm), and there’s an effective 1.6x increase in the lens’s marked
focal length when attached. Canon’s DIGIC III Image Processor dramatically
enhances image quality and speeds up all camera operations for intuitive
operation. It works in concert with the EOS Rebel XSi’s sensor to achieve
unprecedented levels of performance in all lighting situations.
12.2 Megapixel APS-C Size CMOS Sensor
14-bit A/D Converter
With the EOS Rebel XSi, analog to digital
signal conversion is executed by a 14-bit processor, which generates digital
data with incredibly smooth tones. Formerly a feature only present in
top-of-the-line pro digital SLR cameras, the 14-bit conversion gives incredibly
smooth transitions from light to dark colors, with far less risk of "banding." A
sky at sunset is a perfect example. With this rich 14-bit gradation the EOS
Rebel XSi offers RAW images of the highest quality that can be processed with
Canon’s Digital Photo Professional software. Even JPEG files, which are always
finished at 8-bits per channel, use the full 14-bit conversion initially to
generate the best possible color and tonal detail. Another huge benefit of the
14-bit conversion is the Highlight Tone Priority option, which allows critical
shooters to increase the level of detail in bright areas of a scene up to one
stop, without affecting overall exposure.
Auto Optimization
The EOS Rebel XSi’s Auto Optimization is yet
another image-quality tool that comes to the rescue in tricky lighting
conditions. It can actually lighten dark areas of a scene while ensuring that
bright areas maintain tonal detail. It’s now available in all shooting modes,
including P, Tv, Av, and Manual.
DIGIC III Image Processor
Developed to maximize performance between
the capture and recording stages of digital photography, the EOS Rebel XSi’s
latest-generation DIGIC III Image Processor works in concert with Canon’s CMOS
sensor to achieve even higher levels of performance. The entire electronic
system is totally redesigned, giving the camera its incredible combination of
speed and image quality. Digital noise is significantly reduced in shadow areas,
and color reproduction is superior.
DIGIC III Image Processor
