To ensure fast, accurate focusing, the E-3 incorporates an AF system that measures the subject distance using 11-points-full twin cross sensors. Each cross sensor at each of the 11 points is composed of 2 horizontal and 2 vertical lines, for a total of 44 distance-measuring data points. By placing each line in a halfpitch shifted pattern, AF at each distance-measuring point is about 40% more accurate than when sensor elements are composed of a single line. With the incorporation of a dedicated AF engine, all collected AF data is processed instantly and simultaneously using the latest distance-measuring algorithm. A unique pixel addition technique that's effective across a luminance range from -2 EV to 19 EV ensures high AF accuracy even in low light.

The SWD motor is a compact ultrasonic motor developed independently by Olympus. It is this motor that has made the lenses incorporating it capable of AF drive at an unprecedented high speed. To improve AF accuracy, an ultra compact encoder is incorporated to detect positions and control focusing with impressive micro-order accuracy. From start to acceleration, control and stoppage, it moves the lens to the focusing position quickly and accurately, achieving the world's fastest^*1AF speed when the Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 SWD lens is mounted on the E-3.

SWD motor

A mirror mechanism with high accuracy and reliability is incorporated to reduce transmission loss and facilitate high shutter speeds up to 1/8000 sec. and an X-sync speed of 1/250 sec. These high shutter speeds enable open-aperture shooting even under bright sunlight and make the most of the high imaging performance of the Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL Lenses. In addition, super FP flash shooting with full-speed sync up to 1/8000 sec. is available when the FL-50R or FL-36R external flash is attached. Designed for maximum durability and reliability, this newly developed shutter unit has been tested and passed^*2 150,000 shots.

Shutter unit