Canon AL-1 (1982)

Canon AL-1 from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Canon AL-1 was an FD mount, 35mm single-lens reflex camera introduced in March 1982. Its main feature was the "Quick Focus" focus-assist system that was aimed at those who had trouble focusing through the viewfinder—either novices, or those with poor eyesight—and was intended to head off competition from the first full-autofocus cameras from other manufacturers, such as the Pentax ME-F.

The QF focus-assist system searches for the greatest image contrast in the subject using three linear CCD arrays in the base of the camera. Light is diverted to these sensors through a partially-silvered mirror. When the contrast in the image is greatest, the image is the least blurred and thus in focus. Below the viewfinder image, two red arrows indicated which direction to turn the focusing ring to achieve focus, which is indicated by a green circle lighting in between the two arrows. Contrast detection is the system used for autofocus on most compact digital cameras in recent years.

As a lower-end camera, the AL-1 did not offer a long list of features. Instead, Canon focused on providing core functionality and lowering price. The AL-1 provides focus-confirmation, aperture-priority autoexposure (controlled by a through-the-lens silicon photocell), and a small selection of manual shutter speeds, including 10 second self-timer. It also added a larger grip, and the convenience of using of AAA cells for power. Its body was constructed from a special polycarbonate that was then painted to imitate metal. An ISO hotshoe, motor-drive connections, and cable-release socket provide an acceptable level of compatibility with accessories. It was also the last SLR camera to carry Canon's 1960s-era logo on the pentaprism.

The camera uses Canon's breech-lock FD mount, and so users could choose from the wide variety of Canon FD lenses, as well as those from third parties. Users could also utilise Canon R and FL lenses, but with some limitations.

Notably, the AL-1 marked Canon's first public foray into autofocus technology. While far from a true autofocus system, the camera acted a test for Canon engineers as to the feasibility of contrast detection for SLR cameras. Due to the camera's lack of features, it was never overly popular and so it would be 1986 before Canon expanded on the concept, even though its competitors raced ahead.