Overview of EOS-1D X 61-point AF system
Earlier EOS autofocus systems focused using data obtained from AF and light source sensors. But further advance-ments in precision and responsiveness only increased the likelihood of focusing errors caused, for example, by subjects moving out of AF frames, or obstructions. In addition, although a user is able to customize the AF parameters according to a subject or shooting scene in previous EOS autofocus system, customization requires knowledge and experience to achieve optimal result.
To overcome these issues, the EOS-1D X incorporated a new design concept in its autofocus system. EOS-1D X uses information from a number of sensors, including the 61-point AF sensor, the auto exposure sensor and the AF correction light source detection sensor. The auto exposure sensor is a 100,000-pixel RGB sensor, which works together with a DIGIC 4 digital imaging processor to form EOS Intelligent Subject Analysis (EOS iSA) system. EOS iSA enables color and face detection to make AF tracking more stable. This new AF system detects, recognizes and follows subjects from multiple perspectives using more than just distance data, vastly improved AF performance.
For easier menu navigation and setting, all the AF settings and Custom Functions in EOS-1D X are now grouped into one menu tab, so there is no need to jump into different menu areas to make changes.
In addition, preset/cases have been introduced for setting parameters that would otherwise require expert knowledge and experience. Photographers only need to select a preset/case according to the situation to optimize AF settings.
Conceptual Diagram of EOS-1D X AF system
*EOS-1D C adopts the same AF system of EOS-1D X
Overview of EOS 5D Mark III 61-point AF system
EOS 5D Mark III also incorporated a new design concept in its autofocus system similar to EOS-1D X. EOS 5D Mark III uses a combination of the 61-point AF sensor, the AF correction light source detection sensor, a powerful AF micro-computer and new AI Servo AF III AF algorithm to achieve the most accurate and reliable autofocusing capability in its class.
Like the EOS-1D X, the EOS 5D Mark III also features an independent AF Menu tab grouping all the AF related settings and Custom Functions. AF Configuration Tool with 6 preset cases are also included.
Conceptual Diagram of EOS 5D Mark III AF system