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PENTAX ANNOUNCES K20D WITH 14.6 MEGAPIXELS, K200D AND FIVE NEW LENSES
January 23, 2008
GOLDEN, CO. (January 23, 2008)…PENTAX Imaging Company announced today two new digital SLR camera models including the PENTAX K20D digital SLR camera with 14.6 megapixels and the PENTAX K200D digital SLR with 10.2 megapixels. Both cameras are equipped with advanced features including dust-proof and weather-resistant bodies, an improved PRIME image processor, and PENTAX developed Shake Reduction that works with any of the 24 million PENTAX lenses ever manufactured.
PENTAX K20D Digital SLR
Improving on the technology of the award winning K10D, the flagship PENTAX K20D is the highest resolution camera in the advanced photo enthusiast category and allows more experienced photographers, who demand complete control, to fully customize the camera. The most significant features in the K20D include:
- A newly developed CMOS image sensor to bring out the optimum performance of PENTAX interchangeable lenses. Featuring 14.6 effective megapixels and the latest noise-reduction technology, the sensor assures superb image quality.
- Custom Image functions that allow users to select between six preset options and further adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness. The K20D also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast and detail in bright settings.
- A Live View that allows users to see the full image area to confirm composition, focus status and lighting on the large 2.7 inch LCD monitor. A grid display may be engaged to help assure the perfect arrangement of an image and Auto Focus may be activated by simply pressing the AF button on the back of the camera. Further fine tuning of the image can be confirmed with the 4X or 8X zoom option.
- An improved Dust Reduction system that features the new Dust Alert function to pinpoint the exact location of dust particles for the photographer to remove.
- A weather and dust resistant body that allows photographers to keep shooting even in harsh conditions.
- A PC sync socket for more advanced photographers who use studio lighting.
PENTAX K200D Digital SLR
With an easy-to-use interface housed in a compact body, the new PENTAX K200D contains all the advanced imaging technology of the award winning K10D and is designed for users who may be unfamiliar with DSLR cameras but want a camera that will allow them to grow as they learn about photography. With 10.2 megapixels and a 2.7 inch wide view LCD, this model features many of the award winning advancements of the PENTAX Series including:
- Auto Picture and Scene modes that offer shooting ease, while advanced modes, such as the Sv mode, allow photographers to grow with the camera.
- A weather and dust resistant body, unique in this class of cameras, that allows photographers to keep shooting even in harsh conditions.
- Custom Image functions that allow users to select between six preset options and further adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness. The K200D also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast and detail in bright settings.
- An improved Dust Reduction system that features the new Dust Alert function to pinpoint the exact location of dust particles for the photographer to remove.
- A PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction (SR) system for sharp, blur-free images even under difficult shooting conditions, such as macro and telephoto photography or low light settings without a flash.
“Our unique approach to building PENTAX DLSR equipment allows each customer to be confident in their camera choice whether they are just learning about photography or they are a more advanced photo enthusiast,” said Ned Bunnell, president, PENTAX Imaging Company.
“The K20D builds on the technology of the award winning K10D and is ideal for the advanced photographer seeking maximum resolution from their camera as well as complete control over how the camera captures images. The K200D offers an easy-to-use interface while incorporating advanced imaging technology from the award winning K10D. This K200D will grow with an amateur photographer's skill as they learn more about their hobby by offering more features than what is found in entry level models,” added Bunnell.
PENTAX also announced five new lens models all developed specifically for PENTAX digital SLRs bringing the complete line of lenses to 22 current models. Each new lens features a Quick-shift Focus System for instant switching from auto focus to manual and the PENTAX SP coating that protects the exposed lens elements from grease and dust.
Included are two SDM lenses that create a smoother, quieter auto focus. The smc PENTAX DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM (focal length equivalent to 300mm in the 35mm format) and the smc PENTAX DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM (focal length equivalent to 450mm in the 35mm format) are high performance telephoto lenses featuring weather resistant and dust resistant bodies.
PENTAX also expands its limited lens series with the smc PENTAX DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited (focal length equivalent to 52.5mm in the 35mm format). This compact lens with one-to-one magnification in a normal focal length features high-grade aluminum construction of the lens barrel, hood, and cap.
PENTAX expands its offering of zoom lenses with the smc PENTAX DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED (focal length equivalent to 82.5mm to 450mm in the 35mm format) with ED elements that compensate for chromatic aberration. Finally, PENTAX updated the standard smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II with improved resolution to match higher resolution sensors. This lens offers the ideal zoom focal range (focal length equivalent to 27mm to 82.5mm in the 35mm format) for a wide range of shooting applications.
All of these latest PENTAX products will be displayed at the PMA 2008 Trade Show from January 31 to February 2 in Las Vegas. The PENTAX K20D (body only) digital SLR model will ship in April 2008 for US $1299.95, while the PENTAX K200D digital SLR will ship in March 2008 for US $799.95 (with new 18-55mm lens). The lens pricing and shipping dates are as follows:
-smc PENTAX DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM will ship in March 2008 for $1099.95
-smc PENTAX DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM will ship in May 2008 for $1299.95
-smc PENTAX DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED will ship in May 2008 for $399.95
-smc PENTAX DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited will ship in April 2008 for $599.95
-smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II will ship as a kit lens with PENTAX K200D in March 2008 (value $199.95).
PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital SLR and compact cameras, lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, eyepieces and mobile printers and scanners. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.
# # #
Media Contact:
Michelle Martin 303.728.0224
michelle.martin@pentax.com
www.pentaxslr.com
Consumers:
1-800-877-0155
pentaxinfo@pentax.com
PENTAX K20D Digital SLR Fact Sheet
Newly Developed CMOS Image Sensor
The PENTAX K20D features a newly developed CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) image sensor measuring 23.4 mm x 15.6 mm. In designing the K20D, PENTAX made the significant transition to a higher resolution 14.6 megapixel sensor, rivaling the detail previously only found in images captured with 35mm film. This considerable gain offers 50 percent more resolution than 10 megapixel sensors, and 20 percent more resolution than 12 megapixel sensors. PENTAX Imaging (a leading innovator in the imaging business) collaborated with Samsung Electronics (a market leader in developing and producing semiconductors) in the development of the 14.6 megapixel CMOS Sensor found in the PENTAX K20D Digital SLR. The larger photo diode in the sensor gathers more light in a shorter time and therefore can respond more sensitively. As a result, the K20D is able to achieve higher sensitivity levels (up to 6400 in the expanded ISO mode). Also, there is a more direct light path to the pixels. Coupled with a high-performance imaging engine incorporating PENTAX-original image-processing technologies programmed to yield natural, true-to-life images, the new model assures fine-detailed, rich-gradation images.
PENTAX Original Shake Reduction Mechanism
The K20D is equipped with the PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction mechanism, which reduces camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions, such as shooting with a telephoto lens, shooting in low light conditions or at night without supplementary flash illumination, or using extended exposures for sunset scenes. This innovative mechanism offers outstanding compensation equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter-speed steps. In addition, the lighter image sensor unit and refined data-control algorithm offer improved image stabilization over previous models. PENTAX Shake Reduction is compatible with existing PENTAX interchangeable lenses.*
* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount lenses, screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain lenses.
Large 2.7 Inch Wide-view LCD Monitor
The K20D features a large 2.7 inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000* dots resolution. The wide-view design allows the photographer to view the monitor image from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally. Since it assures effortless image viewing from a diagonal position, it facilitates low- and high-angle shooting using the Live View function.
* One dot equals 3 pixels.
New Live View Function
The K20D features a Live View function that allows users to view an image on the LCD monitor during shooting. This feature is beneficial when the photographer moves his or her eye from the viewfinder in specialized applications, such as low and high-angle shooting, or when perfecting composition. The function also allows users to confirm the Shake-Reduction effect on the monitor while shooting.
High-performance, High-speed PRIME Imaging Engine
The K20D incorporates the PENTAX-original PRIME (Pentax Real IMage Engine). Designed exclusively for PENTAX digital SLR cameras, the engine ensures well-balanced, true-to-life images with faithful color reproduction by efficiently controlling digital signals transmitted by the CMOS image sensor. It also allows complete control over other photographic factors including white balance and the new Custom Image functions. This imaging engine also features a Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) memory to assure speedy image processing and high-speed data transfer.
Custom Image Function
The K20D is equipped with a new Custom Image function that lets the user select one of the six modes and adjust an image's processing to their preference by automatically adjusting tone, saturation, contrast, and sharpness. These modes include Natural, Bright, Portrait, Landscape, Vibrant, and B&W image modes. The photographer can make further fine-tuned adjustments to each setting. The effect on each of the primary colors is shown in a radar-type display on the LCD panel. The user can easily see the effect of their adjustments by using the digital preview option.
Expanded Dynamic Range Function
The K20D adds a dynamic-range expansion function, which allows the user to expand the dynamic range (or range of gradation reproduction) while retaining the proper contrast to avoid white-washed areas. With an approximately 1EV expansion effect, it assures beautiful, rich-gradation images.
Dust-proof, Water-resistant Construction
The K20D boasts an extremely reliable weather-resistant and dust-proof construction with special seals applied to 72 different parts of the camera body, including the shutter release button and all the switches, levers, dials. This dependable body makes it possible to use the K20D in the rain or dusty locations without worries.
Comprehensive Dust Removal System With Prevention, Removal and Alerting Devices
The K20D features the user-friendly Dust Removal system to prevent dust from sticking to the surface of the CMOS image sensor (or low-pass filter). The PENTAX-original Super Protect (SP) coating, applied to the image sensor surface through vapor deposition of a fluorine compound, effectively prevents dust from sticking to the surface. In the next step, dust that may remain on the surface will be shaken off when the system shifts the image sensor at high speed. Finally, the dust that is shaken off the image sensor falls onto an adhesive strip positioned at the bottom of the unit, eliminating any possibility of the dust returning to the image sensor surface. This upgraded Dust Reduction system also offers a new Dust Alert function, which shows the user exactly where dust may be sticking to the sensor surface.
The K20D also features a versatile exposure system for faithful reproduction of creative intentions:
Hyper Program Function
The K20D's Hyper Program function allows users to instantly switch to the Shutter-Priority or Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode with a simple turn of the electronic dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed AE mode, simply press the green button positioned next to the shutter release button.
Hyper Manual Function
When shooting in Manual mode, one push of the green button allows the user to instantly set the proper exposure for the subject.
Sensitivity-Priority Mode
The K20D features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode designed to automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a user-selected sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3 steps by turning the electronic dial on the back panel.
Shutter/Aperture-Priority Mode
Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras, which permit automatic shift of sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for a user-selected shutter-speed/aperture combination. This mode allows users to experiment with a greater range of photographic expressions with greater ease.
Bright, Clear Viewfinder
Featuring a glass pentaprism, the K20D's viewfinder offers an approximately 95 percent field of view and an approximately 0.95X magnification for easy viewing of the subject and effortless confirmation of focus and composition. Coupled with the acclaimed Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen, it delivers a large, bright subject image.
Continuous Shooting at Approximately Three Images Per Second
To trace the movement of an active subject or capture a sequence of the subject's expressions, the K20D offers a continuous shooting mode that allows the photographer to capture as many as 38 images in succession (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately three images (frames) per second. When switched to the new high-speed advance mode, the user may capture up to approximately 115 images at the speed of approximately 21 images per second.*
* The image size is fixed at 1.6 megapixels in the Burst Shooting mode.
High-precision 11-point wide-frame AF
The K20D's sophisticated SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors) to automatically focus on the subject with utmost precision, even when it is positioned off center. When the subject is captured in focus, the in-focus sensor point is automatically superimposed in red in the viewfinder for at-a-glance confirmation.
Powerful Rechargeable Batteries
The K20D features large capacity Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, which can capture approximately 740 images* when fully charged. The dramatically improved battery capacity (over the previous K10D) is the result of a new energy saving design.
* Under testing condition prescribed by PENTAX, when using D-LI50 lithium-ion rechargeable batteries with no flash.
Additional features
- A PC Sync socket for shooting with studio lights. The camera remains weather and dust sealed even when the PC socket cap is removed.
- Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering to accommodate various photographic applications
- Reliable, durable shutter unit assuring more than 100,000 shutter releases
- High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
- 36 custom functions to personalize camera operations
- Universal-type X-sync socket
- RAW button for single-action image-file switching
- Digital Preview for verifying camera settings
- Optional Battery Grip (D-BG2) for extended shooting sessions
- Nine digital filters to add creative and artistic touches
- In-body RAW data development for image filing in JPEG and TIFF formats
- Compatibility with SDM equipped lenses for quiet, extra-smooth autofocus operation
- PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 3, RAW data processing software, PENTAX PHOTO Browser 3, browser software and PENTAX REMOTE Assistant 3, camera control software, included on the accompanying CD-ROM
PENTAX, and smc PENTAX are trademarks of PENTAX Corporation
PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory, PENTAX PHOTO Browser, PENTAX REMOTE Assistant, and SDM are
trademarks of PENTAX Corporation
All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies
Designs and specifications are subjects to change without notice
PENTAX K200D Digital SLR Fact Sheet
High Quality Image Sensor
The K200D combines a large, high-performance 23.5mm x 15.7mm CCD image sensor with the sophisticated PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) as its imaging engine. With its approximately 10.2 effective megapixels, the K200D produces beautiful, fine-detailed images with subtle gradations and texture.
PENTAX Original Shake Reduction Mechanism
The K200D is equipped with the PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction mechanism, which reduces camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions, such as shooting with a telephoto lens, shooting in low light conditions or at night without supplementary flash illumination, or using extended exposures for sunset scenes. This innovative mechanism offers outstanding compensation equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter-speed steps. In addition, the lighter image sensor unit and refined data-control algorithm offer improved image stabilization over previous models. PENTAX Shake Reduction is compatible with existing PENTAX interchangeable lenses.*
* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount lenses, screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain lenses.
Versatile Auto Picture And Scene Modes
The PENTAX-developed Auto Picture mode automatically sets the most appropriate shooting mode (such as Portrait, Landscape and Macro) for a given subject or situation. Since the K200D not only sets an aperture and a shutter speed, but also adjusts white-balance, saturation, contrast and sharpness levels, the photographer can concentrate on image composition and shutter opportunity. The K200D also offers eight Scene modes for easy shooting. This include fun options such as sunset, food, pet, and museum modes.
Large 2.7 Inch Wide-view LCD Monitor
The K200D features a large 2.7 inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots* resolution. The LCD's wide-view design allows the photographer to check the monitor image from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally making image sharing immediately after capture easy. It even offers digital zooming of playback images up to 20 times for easy confirmation of focus.
* One dot equals 3 pixels.
Dust-proof, Water-resistant Construction
The K200D features an extremely reliable water-resistant, dust-proof construction, with special seals applied to 60 different parts of the camera body, including the shutter release button and switches/levers/dials. This dependable body makes it possible to use the K200D in the rain or dusty locations without worries.
High-precision 11-point Wide-frame AF
The K200D's advanced SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors) to automatically focus on the subject with utmost precision, even when it is positioned off center. When the subject is captured in focus, the in-focus sensor point is automatically superimposed in red in the viewfinder for at-a-glance confirmation.
Custom Image Function
The K200D is equipped with a new Custom Image function that lets the user select one of the six modes and adjust an image's processing to their preference by automatically adjusting tone, saturation, contrast, and sharpness. These modes include Natural, Bright, Portrait, Landscape, Vibrant, and B&W image modes. The photographer can make further fine-tuned adjustments to each setting. The effect on each of the primary colors is shown in a radar-type display on the LCD panel. The user can easily see the effect of their adjustments by using the digital preview option.
Comprehensive Dust Removal System With Prevention, Removal and Alerting Devices
The K200D features the user-friendly Dust Removal system to prevent dust from sticking to the surface of the CMOS image sensor (or low-pass filter). The PENTAX-original Super Protect (SP) coating, applied to the image sensor surface through vapor deposition of a fluorine compound, effectively prevents dust from sticking to the surface. In the next step, dust that may remain on the surface will be shaken off when the system shifts the image sensor at high speed. Finally, the dust that is shaken off the image sensor falls onto an adhesive strip positioned at the bottom of the unit, eliminating any possibility of the dust returning to the image sensor surface. This upgraded Dust Reduction system also offers a new Dust Alert function, which shows the user exactly where dust may be sticking to the sensor surface.
Auto Sensitivity Control Up to ISO 1600
The K200D's auto sensitivity control function automatically sets the optimum sensitivity up to ISO 1600, based on such data as the subject's brightness level and lens focal length. Since this function allows the user to use faster shutter speeds in poor lighting situations (such as indoor sports events and night scenes), this feature helps photographers effectively reduce camera shake and prevent blurred images. For specialized applications, sensitivity may be set manually from ISO 100 to ISO 1600.
Bright, Clear Viewfinder
Combining a lightweight penta-mirror prism with PENTAX-original finder optics and the acclaimed Natural-Bright-Matte focusing screen, the K200D's viewfinder delivers a large, bright image with an approximately 96-percent field of view and an approximately 0.85-times magnification.
Optional Battery Grip (D-BG3)
Along with this model, PENTAX developed a new battery grip as an optional accessory for exclusive use with the PENTAX K200D. Combined with the camera body batteries, this grip extends battery life and captures a larger number of images without battery changes. With an extra shutter-release button, preview lever and AE-lock button, the grip makes vertical-position shooting simple and effortless. The battery grip also features the same reliable dust-proof, water-resistant construction as the K200D camera body.
Power source: Four AA-size (lithium, rechargeable Ni-MH, alkaline) batteries
Dimensions: 133.5 (W) x 32.5 (H) x 76.5 (D) mm (excluding protrusions)
Weight: 175g (without batteries)
Ship in March 2008 for $129
Other features
- High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
- Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering to accommodate various photographic applications
- 22 custom functions to personalize camera operations
- Approximately 1,100 images can be taken when using AA size lithium batteries due to its energy saving design (4 Energizer Lithium batteries included with each camera)
- Compatibility with conventional SD and large-capacity SDHC memory cards
- Simultaneous recording of RAW- and JPEG-format images
- RAW button for single-action image-file switching
- Eight digital filters for creative and artistic expressions
- In-body development of recorded RAW-format images
- Compatibility with SDM equipped lenses for quiet, extra-smooth autofocus operation
- PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 3, RAW data processing software and PENTAX PHOTO Browser 3, browser software, included on the accompanying CD-ROM
PENTAX, and smc PENTAX are trademarks of PENTAX Corporation
PENTAX PHOTO Browser, PENTAX Laboratory, and SDM are trademarks of PENTAX Corporation
All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies
Designs and specifications are subjects to change without notice