HP's metal-bodied 2007 compact — 7.2MP, 3x 36-108mm zoom, 2.5in LCD, Real Life Technologies
The Photosmart R742 was announced by HP on 22 June 2007, one of three additions to its R-series of metal-bodied point-and-shoots alongside the R847 and R937. It was a mainstream 7-megapixel compact priced at US$179.99 and shipping from August 2007, late in HP's relatively short run as a camera maker.
It combined a 7.2-megapixel sensor with a 3x optical zoom covering 36-108mm equivalent, composed on a 2.5-inch LCD. Thirteen shooting modes covered auto, burst, close-up and scene presets, backed by HP's Real Life Technologies: in-camera red-eye removal, panorama preview, image enhancement and Image Advice. A Steady Photo anti-shake mode raised sensitivity to shorten exposures, video recorded at QVGA 24fps, and storage was 32MB internal plus SD/SDHC cards.
The all-metal body feels more solid than most budget compacts of its day, and operation is fully point-and-shoot with no manual exposure control. It suits casual shooters and collectors of HP's short-lived camera line — HP left the camera market soon after, which lends the R-series some curiosity value.
Check the rechargeable battery still takes a charge and that a charger or dock is included, as HP camera accessories have been discontinued for years and spares are aftermarket-only. Inspect the metal shell for dents that could bind the lens, test the zoom and flash, and confirm SD cards read correctly.