Nikon's 2003 2MP starter compact — 1/3.2" CCD, 36-108mm equiv 3x zoom, CompactFlash, runs on AA cells.
The Nikon Coolpix 2100 was a 2-megapixel budget compact announced with the 3-megapixel Coolpix 3100 in February 2003, ahead of that year's PMA show. The pair introduced a smaller, rounder body style and a simplified menu system to the bottom of the Coolpix line, aimed squarely at first-time digital camera buyers.
It pairs a 2-megapixel 1/3.2-inch CCD with a 3x Zoom-Nikkor giving a 36-108mm equivalent range, backed by 4x digital zoom. The rear carries a 1.5-inch LCD, storage is on CompactFlash Type I cards, and power comes from two AA batteries, with NiMH rechargeables supplied in the box. Scene modes cover portrait, landscape, sports and night shooting plus party, beach, sunset and museum presets.
The 2100 suits collectors of early-2000s digicams and anyone wanting the CCD look at minimal cost rather than practical everyday shooting; two megapixels limits prints beyond postcard size. Handling is simple, with scene-mode dial operation and no manual exposure control, and the AA cells keep it usable without hunting for proprietary batteries.
Used examples are plentiful and cheap, frequently sold untested from house clearances. Confirm the lens motor extends cleanly, check the small LCD for bleed, and inspect the CompactFlash slot for bent pins — note it takes CF, not SD, so a suitable card reader is needed. Fresh AA cells will revive most working bodies, making 'no battery, untested' listings a reasonable gamble at the right price.