Optio S4 shutter query

Hi

I have just purchased an Optio S4. Just out of curiousity does anyone know whether it actually has a mechanical shutter like film cameras? Apart from a selectable 'shutter' noise I can't hear one going off.

The manual says that it does but given that the preview screen shows the image all the time I can't see how it could have a shutter (or why it would even need one at all). I note that Digital SLRs have shutters though.

Anyone know?

I have just purchased the S4 and have been going through the manual. The S4 has an electronic/mechanical shutter which can be adjusted to open between 1/2000 and 4 seconds. The electronic light sensor is comparable to actual film in that under and over exposure effects are possible.

One function I have not yet found on the camera is a sports mode where taking a picture of a fast moving object does not appear out of focus/blurred etc., anyone with any thoughts?

There isn't a sport mode and I can't see any way to manually set a higher speed. It's an unfortunate omission as far as the Optio-S4's feature list goes.

Press left or right on the pad to increase or decrease shutter speed. U can use a quick shutter speed, but it darkens the pic a lot due to not letting much light in