Vibration Reduction Technology

Vibration Reduction (VR) is a unique technology that minimizes blur caused by camera shake. Using a VR NIKKOR lens allows for sharper images in low light, under windy conditions or when using a physically large NIKKOR lens, at up to four stops slower (with a VR II lens) than a non-VR lens.

Nikon VR originates in the lens so algorithms optimized to an individual lens are applied. The lens-based VR has another advantage in that it is a separate algorithm which confirms the stabilization effect when you press the shutter release button halfway. This gives the camera operator the freedom to compose the image more easily. The system can also detect the use of a tripod and any instance in which you wouldn't want the lens to compensate for movement. When the camera detects this, it will address the specific shake caused by the ongoing vibration patterns produced when shooting from a moving vehicle.

The Nikon VR lenses use two angular velocity sensors. One of the lenses detects vertical movement (pitch) and the other lens detects horizontal movement (yaw), with diagonal motion handled by both sensors working together. The sensors then send angular velocity data to a microcomputer in the lens. The computer then determines how much compensation is needed to offset the camera's shake. The information is sent to a duo of voice coil motors that move selected lens elements to compensate for the detected motion.

Normally, in order to get true image sharpness, the camera needs to be rock-steady. The Vibration Reduction technologies in the Nikon Coolpix digital cameras provide the perfect solution for reducing the image blur caused by camera shake. There are four stops of "hand-hold-ability," which helps in delivering dramatically sharper images in a wide range of conditions.

Anti-shake technologies vary in different by manufacturer. The in-camera anti-shake technology used by some manufacturers relies on a process that actually shifts the image sensor. This limits its performance benefit and it is generally agreed to be limited to about one-and-one-half to two stops. For Nikon photographers, an additional two stops of VR performance capability can easily be the difference between a blurry picture and a beautiful sharp one.

Super ED Glass

A chromatic aberration occurs when light rays pass through the optical glass and the varying wavelengths cause color dispersion. Nikon used a technology called ED which stands for extra-low dispersion. This technology is used in all DX Nikkor lenses, allowing for increased control over color aberration.

Aspherical Lens

These lenses have been around a long time. They were first introduced in the SLR lenses in 1968. Aspherical lenses practically eliminate the problems of coma and other aberrations. Today, a special precision glass molding technique called PGM is

Silent Wave Motor

The SWM is a technology that used ultrasonic waves to focus internal lens elements. It has a high-torque motor system that drives the auto focus elements instantly after start-up. At the same time, it stops with exact precision to provide accurate focus. The lenses are driven by internal SWM power so the gear noise is minimal, resulting in a virtually silent autofocus operation. Nikon has included this technology in almost all of their autofocus Nikkor lenses.

Nikon Reliability and Protection

Nikon engineers have spent years perfecting the technology they use. All of the lenses have been thoroughly tested against industry standards. The digital SLRs just like the D2 series have absolutely superior protection against dust and moisture. Other lenses such as the AF-S and VR-Zoom contain an extra rubber sealing around the buttons and mount ring. This adds additional assurance against harsh elements.

M/A Mode

The M/A mode is a feature found on Nikkor AF-S lenses. The mode allows you to switch from autofocus to manual operation with very little lag in time. It doesn’t matter which AF mode is used or which servo operation is used, the mode works the same. It is easy to override to manual focus in low-light and backlit situations by simply rotating the focus ring.