Camera

The Sony Ericsson Z520a has a 0.3-megapixel camera which also records videos. Taking only two clicks, the first to start the application and the second to take the pictures, activating the lens with the Camera Key on the left allows users to store photos up to 640 x 480 px in size. Other resolutions include QVGA (320 x 240 px), and QQVGA (160 x 120 px). The Z520a has an option for Extended (1280 x 960 px), however it merely enlarges the photo rather, so images are not higher resolution.

Converting the internal screen into the viewfinder, users can also take self portraits by closing the Z520a and shifting the display to the external LCD. The Volume Keys along the side adjust the 4x digital zoom, while the navigation keypad adjusts Brightness Levels.

With automatic exposure control, the camera selects the optimal exposure time needed for great pictures. And Night Mode allows users to enhance pictures quality in poor lighting conditions with longer exposure times.

Through Burst Mode, users shoot four pictures in rapid succession, while Panorama Mode combines several shots into one wide picture. Once saved, preinstalled Frames can be added to add a touch of personality and fun.

Video is recorded and played using the H.263 codec. Captured in QCIF (176 x 144 px) or Sub-QCIF (128 x 96 px) resolutions, clips are a novelty feature at best, ill suited for anything more than recording unexpected scenarios to be viewed in grainy detail later.

The Sony Ericsson Z520a's camera is not meant to replace standalone digital cameras. Only able to take photos up to 640 x 480 px in resolution, consumers shouldn't expect to be able to make decent prints. Best viewed on a PC or used for as Picture IDs, the images are meant to reflect fun impromptu moments captured in everyday life.

Basic Features

Released for Cingular Wireless, the Sony Ericsson Z520a has GSM quad-band (850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 MHz) technology for communication around the globe, provided it is unlocked.

The Sony Ericsson user interface is one of the best around. Displayed as a 3 x 4 grid, the Z520a's menu is functional, intuitive, and easy-to-use. More visually appealing than other manufacturer's structure, consumers can not only customize wallpapers and ringtones, but also design headers and change colors through themes.

Sony Ericsson rated the Z520's 900 mAh Li-Ion battery at an incredible 9.0 and 400 hours (16.7 days) of talk and standby times respectively. However, those are under optimal conditions. Handset manufacturers and carriers often list talk-time and standby-time ratings with disclaimers about variable performance and often refer to the times they publish as maximum times.

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