Toshiba IMC-100 (1989)

< Prev Next >

Lacking complete information about this camera, I first assumed it did not exist. After having discussed this topic with one of my sources I have to admit that it did. Because Fuji was one step ahead of Toshiba in developing the Fujix DS-1P both companies decided that Fuji should launch the DS-1P. Having learned from the DS-1P, both companies went on to produce a market-ready digital camera. Fuji built the DS-X and Toshiba built an identical looking twin, the IMC-100. As it appears both Fuji and Toshiba launched and marketed their cameras in Japan.

I believe the camera was sold but I have no proof. Some specs are available. According to some sources this package was available: The Memory Card Camera (IMC-100), Image Memory Cards (Models IC-18S, IC-9S), Memory Card Player (Model IP-100), Digital Picture File (Model IF-100). The camera featured automatic exposure control and high-speed sequential picture taking of four photos per second.

The Memory Card Player receives the data from the camera and displays the images on a conventional TV screen or monitor. It is capable of direct input into a TV receiver or monitor. The Digital Picture File stores and retrieves information. It can record up to 1,000 pictures on a digital audio tape. The machine is equipped with a random access function, so that any images can be easily retrieved by keying in their number. It sends information directly to a TV receiver or directly to a printing device.

As explained in the history section this is the first website on the internet to have been granted a world exclusive photo of the IMC-100. This was made possible by the relentless efforts of the Toshiba Corporation and the Toshiba Science Museum.