Casio's fast-starting 2003 compact — 4MP 1/1.8in CCD, 3x zoom 39-117mm equiv f/2.8-4.9, AA power
The Casio QV-R40 was a 4-megapixel compact announced in July 2003, part of Casio's QV-R series that preceded the slimmer Exilim Zoom models as the company's mainstream point-and-shoot line. Casio promoted it heavily on responsiveness, claiming a one-second start-up and 0.01-second shutter release lag, unusually quick figures for its day.
It carries a 4-megapixel 1/1.8-inch CCD delivering 2304x1728 images, behind a 3x optical zoom with a 39-117mm equivalent range and f/2.8-4.9 maximum aperture. Framing is via a small 1.6-inch LCD, top shutter speed is 1/2000 second, and the camera connects over USB 1.0. Unlike later proprietary-battery Exilims it runs on two AA cells, with NiMH rechargeables supplied new, and weighs around 210g.
Today it appeals to buyers wanting an early-2000s CCD digicam that avoids battery obsolescence: AA power means it can always be kept running. Handling is chunkier than the Exilim cards that replaced it, and the small low-resolution screen dates it, but the fast response Casio advertised still makes it pleasant for casual snapshots.
On the used market the AA compartment is the first check, as leaked alkalines corrode contacts; use NiMH cells for best performance since alkalines drain quickly in digitals of this era. Check the lens barrel extends without grinding, the 1.6-inch LCD is free of damage, and test a small-capacity SD-era card, as very large modern cards may not be recognised by 2003 firmware.