The number of segments and the algorithms behind it work together. In evaluative metering, I think the computer looks at a database of possible situations, which is probably really vast (like Area 1 is Ev2, Area 2 is Ev3 A3 .. A21 etc), so you can see in such cases, even if it generalizes certain cases, it might be a huge database. So the more sensors you have the bigger your database should be to accomodate such different light conditions. Now I think that they probably do not account for all cases and they generalize on certain situations, but still it is not just how many sensors (more is better for information gathering) but how you use that information (database) is also important. There is probably a useful lower limit on number of sensors that gives you somewhat of an accurate response.
It is entirely possible that the new digital body has the same 21 sensors but the algorithms and database supporting it is more advanced, due to better algorithms discovered and better processors to run them. -e > *********************************************** > > The reason I asked this question is that Canon seemed to be > adding more segments. The Elan II had (I believe) 6 > segments. They developed 21 segments for the EOS 3 and the > 1V. Then the Elan 7 came out with 35 segments. > > Most of the responses have been that the EOS 1V meters more > accurately than the Elan 7. But why? > > I can understand how the firmware reading of the segments > determines the quality. But why would Canon spend R&D > dollars in developing a 35 segment meter for the Elan 7 when > they could have just stuck the 21 segment meter in it? And > that brings me to my original point, why would Canon spend > R&D money on a digital camera and stick 2.5 year old metering > technology in it (EOS 3 came out in '99)? > > Yeah, I understand that Canon is trying to segment their > models and not have the Elan 7 intrude on the market of the > EOS 3 or 1V. But I thought the main differences between the > models were the more robust construction; the 1/3 stop > metering; spot metering; sync speed; shutter speed; motor > drive speed; and the 45-point AF. There really is no reason > to "cripple" the Elan 7 metering to avoid intruding on the > pro market. There are plenty of reasons for a pro to select > the 3 or 1V over the Elan 7. > > Therefore, in an ideal market, the latest Canons would have > the most advanced metering. Then they can move the metering > system to all the other models with upgrades. The latest > film model is the Elan 7. Make that meter at least as > effective as the 21-segment meter, then put the meter in the 1D. * **** ******* *********************************************************** * For list instructions, including unsubscribe, see: * http://www.a1.nl/phomepag/markerink/eos_list.htm ***********************************************************
