Olympus has expanded its Four Thirds DSLR line, with the addition of the E-420.

The model is a minor upgrade to last year?s E-410, and joins it as one of world?s smallest DSLRs on the current market.

It features a 10MP LiveMOS sensor, with a TruePic III imaging processor at the heart of the camera. The rear sports a 2.7in LCD screen, which is complemented by HyperCrystal II and BrightCapture technologies.

As on the E-410, live view functionality has been offered, and is now joined by both Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment technologies. Autofocusing is now also supported when using live view, and is said to work as ?seamlessly as on a point and shoot model?. The autofocus system itself is also said to have been improved, with contrast AF joining the previously-offered phase detection.

As on previous Olympus models, a Supersonic Wave Filter is said to offer the most effective dust-busting solution available. Wireless multi-flash operation is also supported for up to three independent flash groups, with compatibility offered for the company?s wireless FL-36R and FL-50R units.

Other features of note include a 3.5fps continuous shooting rate for up to 9 Raw images, a one-touch white balance function and support for both xD and CompactFlash media. The camera?s sensitivity range, meanwhile, runs from ISO 100-1600.

The model will see an April release, with the standard kit option retailing at a suggested price of £379.99. For more information visit www.olympus.co.uk