"There's no doubt that a big problem with remote flash shooting was that it took so long to get all the different equipment ready and set it all up.
"The question was would it really be possible to develop a remote flash system that used less equipment and didn't stress the user with complicated setups and adjustments? This is the theme that drove our development process.
"Our hard work was rewarded with the successful development of the first wireless remote control flash system for Olympus E-System cameras - the FL-50R and FL-36R electronic flashes.
"When combined with the E-3, they can create a versatile, easy-to-use flash system that doesn't use a commander.
"To support data communication, we developed an exclusive Olympus-original optical communication method based on precise detection of light pulse emission intervals. We call this the RC data transfer system.
"Able to transmit large amounts of data using a minimum number of communication light pulses, this system makes it possible to reduce power consumption, ensuring that the camera battery doesn't run out too early and minimizing time lag during shooting even when relatively long communication light pulse intervals are used.
"To tell the truth," admits Mr. Mitsumasa Okubo, his expression betraying a touch of embarrassment, "this communication method was based on a system that had been under study at Olympus more than 15 years."