SLR

Canon’s first autofocus 35mm SLR camera. The AF system uses a linear CCD array for TTL image contrast detection. The picture-taking mode can be selected with the pictographs on the external LCD panel.

For metering and exposure control, TTL multi-program AE and preset aperture AE with centerweighted averaging metering are provided. Lenses for autofocusing with the T80 were called AC lenses. These lenses had the FD mount and signal transmission capability. Three such lenses were available: AC 50mm f/1.8, AC 35-70mm f/3.5-4.5, and AC 75-200mm f/4.5.

Targeting users who had difficulty focusing through the viewfinder, the AL-1 featured an electronic focus-assist system besides aperture-priority AE.

The system searches for the peak of the subject’s image contrast obtained by three linear CCD arrays. The bottom of the viewfinder has arrows indicating the direction to turn the focusing ring to achieve focus. When focus is achieved, the in-focus mark between the two arrows lights.

The exposure is controlled by a TTL silicon photocell and aperture-priority AE with centerweighted averaging metering. All shutter speeds are electronically controlled and stepless. The camera is also compatible with all FD lenses.

It was five years after the AE-1 became a worldwide hit. Many users wanted the program AE mode that was featured in the A-1. This mode set both the shutter speed and aperture automatically. The user just had to press the shutter button.

The AE-1 Program camera was developed in response to the demand for program AE and to succeed the original AE-1. The camera now had both shutter speed-priority AE and program AE modes. It also sported a palm grip like the A-1. The camera was also compatible with the A-1’s Motor Drive MA. The viewfinder featured LEDs. It was quite an advanced camera.

To make Motor Drive MA compatible with the AE-1 Program camera, it had three electrical contacts instead of only two which the original version had. Also, Power Winder A was converted into Power Winder A2 for higher performance.

Improved version of the Canon FTb. Improvements include a shutter speed display in the viewfinder, a larger shutter button , a plastic-tipped film advance lever, and a slimmer combination self-timer and stop-down lever.