Panasonic ZS3 / TZ7 Tips
This page is a collection of Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 / DMC-TZ7 tips, tricks, techniques, camera settings and hacks by users and owners that I've across in forums, online communities, blogs and related websites.
Full attribution is given by linking to the source and where available, the author's homepage or photo gallery.
Download the latest Firmware Update (Version 1.1, dated 23-April-2009)
The firmware v1.1 for the ZS3 / TZ7 adds two enhancements / improvements:
- Capable of playing back AVCHD motion picture format (1,280 x 720 ) taken with Panasonic Digital Camera DMC-GH1.
Notes:- Not capable of playing back Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) motion picture format.
*This update of firmware is already included in some units depending on the production timing.
- Not capable of playing back Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) motion picture format.
- Noise of auto focusing (Quick AF) is reduced during action.
Instructions and file downloads for Windows and Macintosh platforms can be accessed here.
July 10th, 2009 at 5:04 am
New firmware released on 06/15/09 (v 1.2) makes it more difficult (impossible?) to use non-Panasonic batteries. There is apparently no other benefit to updating to v 1.2 firmware, according to the "warning" and lack of a list of "improvements" as shown on the update service page at:
http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/download/TZ7_ZS3/index.html
Panasonic further states that as of the release date of this firmware, there are no authorized 3rd party batteries available for use in the DMC-TZ7/DMC-ZS3. If you install v 1.2 and use a non-Panasonic battery in this camera, it should be obvious that they will no longer work. There is no word about the ability to roll-back to previous firmware versions. Wait for a subsequent firmware – one that actually offers a real benefit (did I hear someone say "RAW" output or a Fluorescent white balance setting?) to exchange for a reason to toss the inexpensive 3rd party batteries.
December 6th, 2009 at 12:40 am
YOUBATT sells a third party battery that works!!!
I am glad the third battery manufacturers succeeded in breaking Panasonic's monopolistic action.