March 09, 2004
Pentax Optio 43WR
The Pentax Optio 43WR is a full immersable digital camera that Pentax claims can be fully immersed in up to three feet of water for less than 30 minutes (but not operated underwater). It has a 4.0 megapixel sensor with a 2.8x Optical zoom lens.
It measures 3.2 x 3 x 1.2 inches and weighs 7.3 ounces. Powering up takes under 1 second and movie mode shoots at 30 frames per second. It is a camera that is sure to be popular with thoughs who like the great outdoors yet who like a quality digital camera.
Read more about the Pentax Optio 43WR in the following press release from Pentax.
Press Release:
PENTAX INTRODUCES SECOND GENERATION DUNKABLE DIGICAL
OPTIO43WR FEATURES 4 MEGAPIXELS, ZOOM LENS, FASTER MOVIE AND A QUICK START MODE FOR ACTION SHOTS
GOLDEN, Colorado (March 8, 2004) PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. has announced a second generation fully-immersable* digital camera -- the new Optio43WR. Featuring 4.0 effective megapixels, a powerful 2.8X zoom lens, and a JIS Class 7 waterproof rating that keeps the Optio43WR watertight even when the camera is rinsed, splashed or submersed in water.* So, go ahead and dunk the Optio43WR! The latest PENTAX Optio digital camera is the perfect companion for outdoor photography in rain, snow or a day at the beach.
*The Optio43WR may be immersed up to three feet for less than 30 minutes but should not be operated underwater.
The Optio43WR is compact and fast. Measuring 3.2 x 3.0 x 1.2 inches, it weighs 7.3 ounces. A new quick start setting allows users to switch on the power in less than a second prior to shooting, and a new snap shooting mode ensures sharper results from consecutive action shots. The Optio43WR features a new high-speed CCD and innovative image processing circuitry to record movies at the high resolution of 640 x 480 pixels, and the movie quality has been enhanced with 30fps (frames per second) performance*. Movies now may be recorded to the full capacity of your chosen memory media.
*A high transfer speed SD card is required.
The camera hosts a variety of impressive features also found on other PENTAX Optio digital products including: movie mode with sound and voice memo, built-in flash, a high-precision 1.6 inch LCD monitor, an optical viewfinder, and a diverse range of shooting modes including program, landscape, night scene, night scene portrait, surf and snow, portrait, sunset, flower, fireworks, snap (automatic pan) and macro modes.
The Optio43WR power sources include two AA alkaline batteries or optional CR-V3 lithium batteries and AC adapter. As with all newer PENTAX Optio digital cameras, the Optio43WR includes the latest version of ACDSee™ 5.1 software. With a $150 value, ACDSee™ digital camera software makes it easy to retrieve, view, manage, print, enhance and share your digital photos. The Optio43WR will ship along with the software to major camera retailers in June 2004.
PENTAX OPTIO43WR Facts
The power of 4.0 effective megapixels and a 2.8 optical zoom lens
Despite the rugged design, the Optio43WR captures delicate detail with 4.0 effective megapixels, while the 2.8X zoom lens (equivalent to a 37-104mm lens in 35mm format) captures both expansive scenery shots and tightly composed portraits without protruding from camera body. When combined with the 4X digital zoom, the optical zoom offers a total 11.2X zoom power with smooth lever operation.
Waterproof Design
Go ahead and dunk the Optio43WR! The camera features a rust-resistant metal interior, rubber sealants, and lens protection that opens up a new world of photographic potential. Users may shoot in rain, in snow, by the pool, or on the beach to capture outdoor scenes and adventure. The JIS Class 7 waterproof rating confirms the Optio43WR will remains watertight even when the camera is rinsed, splashed and immersed in water.*
*The Optio43WR may be immersed up to three feet for less than 30 minutes but should not be operated underwater.
Quick Response
The Optio43WR features two new functions to ensure faster response especially for action shots. A Quick Start setting allows users to switch on the power within 0.9 seconds prior to shooting with the press of the shutter release button. In addition, a special Snap mode ensures sharp results from action shots with a release lag of just 0.05 seconds* from one shot to the next. Additionally, the Optio43WR makes it easy to change modes by requiring only a single touch to switch from shooting to playback or back to shooting mode.
*Time taken from the moment when the shutter release is fully depressed following focus lock to the moment the shutter opens, when the flash is switched off.
Powerful movies* mode offering 640 x 480 recording pixels at 30 fps with audio
A new high-speed CCD and innovative image processing circuitry in the Optio43WR records movies at the high resolution of 640 x 480 pixels that is higher than most digital cameras in a similar class. Movie quality has been enhanced with 30fps performance (double the conventional rate)*. Movies may be recorded to the full capacity of your chosen memory media.
*To record movies at 30fps, an SD card with a high transfer speed is required. Recorded movies can be viewed using ACDSee for PENTAX (on systems with QuickTimeTM installed).
Wide-ranging shooting modes
An array of 12 shooting modes are available on the virtual mode dial on the LCD display for easy access:
Program mode allows you to take control over a combination of functions at once.
Landscape mode captures the grandeur of spacious settings and emphasizes the shades of land and sky.
Night scene mode enhances scenes with nighttime illumination.
Night scene portrait mode captures detail in low natural light, with a flash that highlights the foreground.
Portrait mode captures natural looking skin tones for more flattering results when shooting people.
Surf mode counteracts the negative effects of water reflection on images and provide appropriate exposure throughout the frame.
Snow mode presents metering challenges and this mode helps avoid the effects of excess reflection.
Flower mode captures the natural detail, color, and beauty of flowers.
Fireworks mode helps capture the vivid color and excitement of fireworks.
Snap mode allows you to capture your subject in an instant with the assurance of automatic pan focusing.
* Movie mode allows users to select recording pixels from a choice of 640 x 480, 320 x 240, or 160 x 120 and control the frame rate between 30fps and 15fps. The color selection offers full color, B&W, and Sepia shooting, and all files are stored in MOV format for easy playback on PC.
* Panorama Assist mode captures expansive scenes and allows horizontal or vertical images to be combined, these can then be aligned and combined on a PC using the simple-to-use software provided.
Digital filters Add a creative flair to existing images with a choice of ten options including black and white, sepia, red, pink, purple, blue, green, yellow, soft and brightness. Such capability allows the user to emphasize the mood of different scenes. Select purple to add impact to sunset shades, add brightness to darker shots, or experiment with different filters for a wide range of imaginative results.
Playback message
Record voice or other sounds to a still image or movie and provide a playback message for others. A special red light signal notifies others of the image.
Built-in flash
In addition to automatic flash in low-light conditions, the built-in flash of the Optio43WR features Flash-on, Flash-off modes, slow shutter sync and a red-eye reduction function* that improves the quality of portraits taken at night.
*This feature does not eliminate “red eyes” in all instances.
Handy LCD monitor
The 1.6-inch monitor simplifies composition, and the Optio43WR boasts accelerated image processing to allow a refresh rate of 1/60th of a second.
Optical viewfinder
A viewfinder offering actual image zoom allows you to conserve power by switching off the LCD monitor.
Nine image/zoom display
Speed the search for recorded shots as the Optio43WR displays nine recorded images at once. Each image may also be magnified 8X to check for focus and detail.
White balance modes
To ensure appropriate white balance in varying situations, the Optio43WR offers auto, daylight, shade, tungsten, and fluorescent light settings, or it offers a manual setting so you may experiment with settings for different results.
Metering options
Just as there are many different kinds of lighting situations, the Optio43WR offers a range of metering options. Simply select from Spot metering, Multi-segment metering, and Center-weighted metering to achieve the optimal results for the subject at hand.
Sensitivity settings
Light sensitivity can be adjusted to suit your aims or circumstances, with a choice ranging from equivalent to ISO50 for minimized noise, to ISO100, 200, and 400 equivalence.
Exposure compensation
Exposure compensation across a range of ±2EV in steps of 1/3EV makes it easy for the user to take a series of shots of a subject, select the one that best suits their tastes, then delete the rest.
Settings for sharpness, saturation, and contrast
With three grades of settings for sharpness, saturation, and contrast, the Optio43WR offers an exceptional amount of control over each and every shot.
Macro mode
Macro mode allows the user to shoot from as close as 1cm from the subject, filling the frame with small objects such as stamps, for example, when the zoom is at the wide-angle setting.
Interval shooting
Just select the start time, the duration of the interval between shots, and the number of frames—and the Optio43WR will operate to achieve a set of images to portray the slow-moving processes.
Multiple continuous shooting
With a press of the shutter release, capture four consecutive shots of your subject and view them on one frame to capture all the action in one image.
Convenient self-timer
A handy self-timer allows users to join group shots and minimize camera shake in low light settings.
More convenient features
Customization function
Not only can a recorded image be used as the start-up screen or as the screen that accompanies the alarm function, but background images for the menu screen may be selected from six preset images. Select from three sounds to accompany start-up, shutter release, and button operation and record your own favorite sounds for use with the self-timer and alarm functions.
Resize function
Resizing reduces image data size and saves recorded shots to free up space for more shots. The smaller files may overwrite larger versions or be saved as separate files, and the resized images make ideal e-mail attachments.
Trimming
The Trimming function crops unwanted elements from recorded images, overwrites the new image on the old, and retains and stores any important sections as individual files.
Voice memo function
Attach recorded sound to your favorite images.
Histogram display
The histogram display helps users evaluate each scene by displaying light levels during shooting and playback.
Alarm with snooze function
A handy alarm can be set to sound with the display of a select image to wake you with a friendly face or an important schedule reminder.
February 12, 2004
Pentax Optio MX
It has an LCD that swivels horizontally and vertically for ease of use.
The Pentax Optio MX will be priced at under $400 (US) and should be in stores in June 2004.
Read an excerpt from the Press Release announcing the Pentax Optio MX below.
PENTAX Unveils First Optio Digital Still/Movie Camera With $400 Price Tag and Adds a Second Lens for Digital SLR
GOLDEN, Colo. --(Business Wire)-- Feb. 12, 2004 PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. has announced the introduction of the first PENTAX Optio(R) digital still/movie camera - the OptioMX.
The innovative, palm-sized OptioMX features 3.2 effective megapixels and 10X optical zoom to capture still images and high resolution (VGA) full-motion movies on MPEG-4 format with zoom capability. With advanced design and the compact signature dimensions of the Optio line of digital cameras, the OptioMX features an ergonomic grip handle and an articulating LCD monitor that swivels horizontally and vertically to frame subjects exactly as you prefer.
OptioMX marks the legendary manufacturer's first step into the production of full-capacity digital video and PENTAX has priced the camera under $400. For optimal results in panoramic settings, a wide conversion lens will be available as an accessory to the OptioMX, and the digital video camera will ship to dealers in June 2004
These latest PENTAX digital developments will be showcased under glass at the 2004 Photo Marketing Association's (PMA) Show in Booth C140 from February 12-15 in Las Vegas.
PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, binoculars, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, Pentax technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With corporate headquarters located in GOLDEN, Colorado, PENTAX U.S.A., INC. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX CORPORATION.
February 03, 2004
Pentax Optio S40
The Pentax Optio S40 is a 4 megapixel, 3x optical zoom camera that comes bundled up in an attractive and sturdy metal casing. It has a 1.6 inch LCD. It has 11MB of built in memory as well as an SD-MMC slot. Its has the option of being powered either by AA batteries or a CR-V3.
It is a compact camera coming in at 3.5 x 2.3 x 1inches. The Pentax Optio S40 will be available in April 2004.
For more details on specifications and links to reviews as they are written check out:
- Imaging Resource - Pentax Optio S40
Following is the Press Release announcing the Pentax Optio S40:
Pentax Press Release 02/02/04
NEW PENTAX OPTIO S40 CAMERA PAVES THE WAY FOR DIGITAL NEWCOMERS
GOLDEN, Colorado (February 2, 2004) Will 2004 be the year you go digital? The new PENTAX Optio S40 is a 4 megapixel, 3X zoom digital camera that is loaded with the features to help you on your way! Sporting a sleek aluminum design and the signature, compact dimensions of the PENTAX Optio digital brand, the Optio S40 features an exciting, new "help" function. Offering simple-to-understand explanations in a regular or enlarged font for easier viewing, the "help" function guides new, and old hands, through the camera’s array of digital features with a simple touch.
The PENTAX Optio S40 makes digital easy and fun! The buttons and controls of the Optio S40 are placed in easy reach for ready-to-shoot positioning. The shutter release button and all the manual buttons are enlarged for easy manipulation. Featuring the legendary smc PENTAX lens and the unique PENTAX Sliding Lens system that allows the lens to retract fully when the camera is off lens, the Optio S40 is sleek and compact enough to carry everywhere. Plus, with the optional, acrylic waterproof housing that is newly-designed for the Optio S40, everywhere may include the exciting world of underwater digital photography!
The PENTAX digital advantage doesn’t stop there. Equipped with PictBridge, a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association), the Optio S40 connects directly to your printer so you may print images without the need for a personal computer. For more convenience, the PENTAX Optio S40 includes an ACDSee™ software package that is designed exclusively for PENTAX digital cameras. ACDSee™ digital camera software makes it easy to retrieve, view, manage, print, enhance and share your digital photos. Valued at $150, the package includes ACDSee™ 5.1, FotoSlate™, FotoCanvas™ and Photostitcher.
PENTAX OPTIO S40 FACT SHEET
Major features of the Optio S40 include:
Ultra-compact, sophisticated design
Featuring the unique PENTAX Sliding Lens system, that allows the 3X zoom lens to retract fully when the camera is off, the Optio S40 dimensions are just 3.5 inches (W) x 2.3 inches (H) x 1 inch (D) and weighs 4.4 ounces (excluding batteries and SD memory card). The Optio S40 is compatible with two AA batteries and has an attractive aluminum design and is small enough to be comfortably worn about the neck or easily slipped in the pocket.
4.0 effective megapixel clarity with primary color filter
For exceptional clarity, the Optio S40 has the imaging power of 4.0 effective megapixels with a primary color filter and advanced imaging technologies for brighter, more natural color and higher overall quality.
Ultra-compact, 3X optical zoom lens
The Optio S40 features the legendary smc PENTAX lens with 3X zoom capability with a focal range equivalent to 35-105mm lens in 35mm format. Combined with a 4X digital zoom, the Optio S40 offers 12X zoom. Zoom out for expansive scenes or in for tight framing. With five groups of six lens elements crafted entirely from glass, the Optio S40 features two lenses crafted to be aspherical on each side.
User-friendly operation
All Optio S40 buttons and controls are located within easy reach and in ready-to-shoot position. The shutter release button along with all buttons on the back of the camera are enlarged for easier manipulation, and a handy mode dial is employed to allow virtually effortless selection from the impressive array of shooting modes.
Function customization
For customized, easy operation, the Optio S40 allows four frequently used functions to be selected from a choice of seven (recording size, image quality, exposure compensation, metering, white balance, ISO and AF area). These can then be assigned to the left and right elements of the four-way controller for access when the dial position is set in modes other than Auto Select, Movie, and Voice recording.
Help function in Auto Select mode
A useful Help function can be easily accessed when in both recording and playback modes, displaying simple explanations of all button functions on the screen.
PictBridge compatibility
The Optio S40 supports PictBridge, a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association). With this advantage, the Optio S40 can be connected directly to a printer that supports PictBridge via USB cable and offer control over printing, resizing, trimming, digital filter, and other functions — all without the need for a PC.
9-position mode dial
The Optio S40 makes it easy to select shooting modes with a handy dial positioned in the middle of the top surface. Set the dial to one of the nine modes described below and let the Optio S40 take care of all relevant settings automatically.
Auto Select automatically sets the camera and features a help function that displays simple-to-understand explanations of different button functions.
Portrait mode capture skin tones in a more natural, flattering manner.
Landscape mode makes it easy to capture the expansive beauty of wide-open natural scenes.
Night scene captures a significant amount of detail while retaining the true mood of shots taken in low light.
Movie records video with sound
Voice records voice messages.
Digital effect in the Optio S40 offers a range of digital effects for the creation of interesting images, with 8 digital filters, 2 in 1, multiple exposure, and Panorama Assist functions.
Program leaves all settings to the camera for spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities.
Picture mode allows the user to choose from one of 10 different settings to swiftly make the most of the situation at hand.
Simple shooting with 8 Picture modes
In addition to placing Portrait, Landscape, and Night scene modes directly on the mode dial, the Optio S40 also offers 8 picture modes with exceptionally easy access — in fact all you have to do is just select the icon most appropriate for the scene, compose, then capture.
- Flower mode has been specially designed to bring out the vivid color and intricate detail of flowers.
- Self-portrait mode delivers sharp results and flattering tones whenever you need to take a shot of yourself.
- Surf mode counteracts the problems associated with reflections of light off water — enabling pleasing, appropriate exposure throughout the frame.
- Snow mode helps maintain true color and avoid the detrimental effects of excessive reflection.
- Sunset mode has been specially decided to capture the warmth and romance of sunrise and sunset scenes.
- Art museum mode designed especially for use in museums and galleries allows optimal exposure to be achieved while ensuring the flash doesn’t fire.
- Text mode has been developed to capture written material in a manner that maximizes legibility.
- Marine mode makes it easy to achieve truly attractive shots involving water*, making the most of an array of different tones of blue.
* When the Optio S40 is housed within an optionally available waterproof case.
Digital effect mode offers digital filters as well as multiple exposure, Panorama Assist, and 2 in 1 digital functions, the Optio S40 opens up a range of exciting creative avenues. What’s more, all of these special capabilities and effects can be made use of without the need for a PC.
8 digital filters
With a choice of eight filters comprising red, green, blue, B&W with red, B&W with green, B&W with blue, B&W, and sepia, the Optio S40 lets the user emphasize key colors of the original scene or add an entirely different mood altogether.
2 in 1
Functioning exactly as it sounds, the handy 2 in 1 function cuts a single frame in two, allowing two different images to be recorded side by side.
Panorama Assist
Users can follow the camera’s simple guidance to take a series of horizontal or vertical shots. These can then easily be aligned and combined on a PC using the software provided to create one large image that captures expansive scenes in their entirety.
USB mass storage class compatibility*
Supporting USB cable connectivity, the Optio S40 allows multiple recorded shots to be swiftly and simply imported into common PC applications.
*System requirements: PCs running Windows 2000, Windows Me, Windows XP Home Edition/Professional or Mac OS 9.0, 9.1, 9.2 or Mac OS X, Xv10.1, Xv10.2. Compliance with the aforementioned system requirements does not guarantee USB compatibility.
Useful software included
The Optio S40 even comes with its own CD-ROM of handy software, comprising the exclusive USB driver and the popular ACDSee for PENTAX — which is compatible with both Windows and Macintosh computers.
Built-in auto flash
The built-in flash of the Optio S40 can be set to fire automatically when shooting in light that is less than sufficient. It also offers the user greater control when desired too, through the incorporation of Flash-on, Flash-off, and red-eye reduction* modes. Finally, for a further advantage, it also features a Slow shutter sync mode too, which is of particular use when shooting in Night scene mode.
*This feature does not eliminate “red eyes” in all instances.
High-precision LCD monitor
Offering a 100% field of view, the 1.6-inch LCD monitor makes composition a cinch. It also serves as a handy way to view recorded shots, prior to printing out.
Optical viewfinder
The optical viewfinder makes it possible for the user to switch off the handy LCD monitor, saving vital power whenever required.
Nine-image and Zoom display
The search for recorded shots is significantly speeded up through the ability to display nine recorded shots on screen at once. Then, when the user has located the shot they were after, they can simply enlarge it to fit the dimensions of the screen, or even zoom in more closely with up to 16X magnification.
Convenient self-timer
A handy self-timer makes it easy for the photographer to get in on the shot, allowing easy self-portraits or all-inclusive group compositions.
Optional remote control
Two remote control units are optionally available for the Optio S40. Named remote control E and remote control F, they offer remote immediate shutter release, a useful three-second timer function, and the former can even control zooming.
Continuous shooting
Continuous shooting is activated by simply keeping the shutter button held down. This allows accelerated action to be captured in a highly expressive manner.
Macro mode and Landscape mode
Through simple use of Macro mode, the user can compose shots from as close as 7 inches from the subject at all zoom settings. The Optio S40 also offers super macro shooting too, which lets the user move in further to just 2.36 inches from the subject! The Optio S40 offers excellent performance right at the other end of the scale too; capturing wide-open scenes of natural beauty with satisfying focus that extends all the way to the horizon via easy selection of Infinity-landscape mode.
Manual focus
The Optio S40 makes it easier to achieve accuracy when undertaking manual focus. This is achieved through use of the LCD monitor and its ability to enlarge the central part of a potential shot.
Options for autofocus
Choices for the user even extend to autofocus. Spot AF allows the user to place the center of focus in the middle of the frame, while 7-point autofocus allows simultaneous focusing on multiple subjects in different parts of the frame.
White balance settings
With a range of white balance settings, the Optio S40 is highly competent at accommodating different types of light. It features settings for Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten, and Fluorescent light, and there is also a manual setting that lets the user take total control.
Histogram display
A histogram display makes it easy to view light levels during both shooting and playback with accuracy. As a direct result, the user is empowered to make a much more educated evaluation of each and every shot.
3 choices for metering
One of the keys to the versatility of the Optio S40 is its choice of metering systems. Indeed, with a selection of multi-segment metering, center-weighted metering, and spot metering, the Optio S40 achieves impressive results in a very wide range of situations.
ISO settings
The power to ISO settings is absolutely vital when shooting in a range of light intensities, and the Optio S40 makes it easy to select from a selection of ISO100, 200, and 400, and it also offers the benefit of an auto setting.
Exposure compensation
Because exposure can be a matter of personal taste, the Optio 40S can be set to capture images with exposure compensation ranging across +2EV in steps of 1/3EV.
Settings for sharpness, saturation, and contrast
With three grades of settings for sharpness, saturation, and contrast, the Optio S40 provides the user with a markedly greater degree of control over the nature of each and every shot.
Image protection
The Optio S40 provides extra protection for images the user is sure they want to keep. Indeed with a special function that prevents all specified shots from being erased, the user is even free to lend the camera to others to use, without having to worry about them accidentally disposing of wanted shots.
Mode memory function
Memory mode enables a combination of settings to be saved at once. These are then returned to automatically as soon as the power is next turned on.
World time function
The Optio S40 can display the time for 62 different cities around the world. It can also record the time and date for each shot taken to enable simpler sorting when the user returns home.
DPOF compatibility
DPOF compatibility gives the user even greater control over printouts — letting them manipulate the date function as desired and decide the number of copies*.
* Some printers may not support the above functions. Please consult the supplier of your printer for more information.
Approximately 11MB of built-in memory
Even without additional media inserted, the Optio S40 still has the power to record quality shots with ease. Indeed it has approximately 11MB of built-in memory that allows the recording of a substantial amount of images.
SD memory card and Multimediacard compatibility
The Optio S40 is compatible with both SD memory cards and Multimedia cards. Whichever the user chooses to use, they can benefit from widespread availability and simple data transfer to PCs.
Resize function
A handy resize function makes it easy to free up useful memory space, without forcing the user to delete shots already recorded. It’s a highly useful function that works by simply reducing the size of selected files, then giving the user the chance to save the image as an additional new, lighter file, or easily overwrite its heavier version. The function can also be used to free up a massive amount of memory in minimal time, by allowing all images to be selected and subjected to resizing at once.
Trimming
With a handy trimming function, the Optio S40 lets the user crop out unwanted parts of recorded images to achieve more reined compositions, or select a main subject in a larger shot for saving as an image in its own right.
Voice memo function
Up to 30 seconds of sound can be attached to recorded images, allowing a greater degree of expression all round, not to mention a tremendous amount of fun.
Customization
Users can also customize the Optio S40 by selecting an image to appear as wallpaper on the camera’s start-up screen. The user can also customize the camera further by selecting sounds to accompany shutter release and a range of other actions.
AV (video/audio) output terminal
Through use of an AV output terminal and the provided AV cable, the Optio S40 makes it easy to display images on the larger dimensions of a TV screen.
Power sources
Even power is an area of choice with the Optio S40. Indeed not only is it compatible with commonly available CR-V3 and AA batteries (alkaline, lithium, nickel hydride), there’s also an AC adapter available as an option.
Operation in 9 languages
All menus and messages of the Optio S40 can be set for display in the user’s choice of English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese (traditional/simplified), Korean, or Japanese.
Optional accessories
AC adapter
For continuous use over a long period of time, an AC adapter can allow the Optio S40 to be plugged into a nearby power outlet.
Waterproof case
When housed in a convenient waterproof case, the Optio S40 offers the exciting ability to take shots underwater.
PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. will preview the Optio S40 on February 11 at the PMA Sneak Peek Event and the PEPCOM DigitalFocus in advance of the 2004 Photo Marketing Association (PMA) Trade Show from February 12-15 in Las Vegas. The camera will ship to retailers in April 2004.
PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, binoculars, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX U.S.A., INC. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX CORPORATION.
Pentax Optio S30
The Pentax Optio S30 is designed to be one of the simplest digital cameras ever released. It is a compact 3.2 megapixel, 3x optical zoom digital camera with a simple menu system offering easy to follow functions.
It comes with all the normal shooting modes of landscape, portrait etc - but also comes with some new and fresh options which allow the user to shoot in 'party', 'food' and 'pet' mode. Also available are nine filters that can be applied after the photograph is taken on the camera itself.
For more specifications and to read reviews (as they come to hand) of the Pentax Optio S30 check out the following links:
- Imaging Resource
- Lets go Digital
- DP Review
- Photography Blog - Pentax Optio S30
The following is from the Pentax Press Release
The Optio30 — The simple, friendly and compact digital camera perfect for anyone, any time
The Optio30 is the ideal camera for the newcomer to the digital photography. Compact, ergonomic, and lightweight, it’s as comfortable in the hand as it is attractive to the eye. With the ample imaging ability of 3.2 effective megapixels and the versatility of 3X optical zoom, it has the power to offer a satisfying blend of clarity and compositional freedom. It also offers exceptionally easy operation, conveying a confident sense of satisfaction, even before you view its impressive results.
Specially enhanced for even simpler use
Despite its minimal dimensions, every effort has been made to make each of the controls as large as possible. It’s also exceptionally easy to understand how it works, enabling you to enjoy the ability to take quality shot virtually as soon as you take it out of the box. One of the key factors behind such easy operation is the Simple Menu, which offers straightforward explanations for frequently used functions. The Full Menu has also been enhanced too, allowing a whole range of camera settings to be fine-tuned to suit your tastes so you can configure the camera in different ways as you gain more and more confidence in your photography.
An appealing exterior that puts you at ease
From above, the Optio30 has a rounded outline that makes it seem somehow more approachable. It’s a form that also serves to make the camera easy to hold with a steady grip. A sense of comfort is even further enhanced by the ability to save a recorded shot as the start-up screen and the power to select a wallpaper for use with the menu screen.
No experience required; only your imagination
Just turn the power on and press the shutter release – that’s really all it takes! Indeed the Optio30 is the ideal response to the growing demand for a quality digital camera with the ability to perform with ease across a wide range of day-to-day situations. The secret of such versatility lies in the innovative virtual mode dial. This simple, yet ingenious feature lets the user select a suitable icon on the screen in response to which the Optio30 automatically sets the optimal settings for a wide range of different subjects and circumstances. Indeed in addition to the conventional Portrait, Self-portrait, Flower, Sunset, Landscape, Surf and Snow, the Optio30 also features Party, Food, and Pet modes too!
Major features
An attractive, appealing exterior with compact dimensions
The rounded overall appearance of the Optio30 gives it instant visual appeal. It also makes it feel exceptionally comfortable when gripped in the hands. Whenever a shooting opportunity arises, you can easily slip the camera out of a pocket or bag thanks to the body design and over all compactness.
Optical and digital zoom capability with the advantage of Macro too
The Optio30 offers the compositional advantage of 3X optical zoom with a focal range covering angles of view equivalent to those of a 38-114mm lens in 35mm format. It can also be used in combination with the 4X digital zoom to realize a total zooming capacity of 12X. Macro mode allows shots to be composed from as close as just 2cm from the subject.
Diverse shooting modes for wide range of circumstances
The virtual mode dial with easy-to-understand icons makes selection of the 12 shooting modes extremely easy. Simply select the most appropriate, compose and shoot!
Program mode
Lets you leave virtually everything up to the camera, allowing the Optio30 to automatically set the optimal shutter speed, aperture, and focus for the subject at hand.
Landscape mode
Makes the most of natural greens and blues for appealing nature shots and satisfying skies. It also ensures ideal clarity that extends sharpness as far as the horizon.
Night scene mode
Allows the camera to assume a slower shutter speed and capture greater detail with available light.
Night scene portrait mode
Enables pleasing shots of people to be taken at night without sacrificing exposure of the background.
Portrait mode
Captures natural looking skin tones, achieving results that are significantly more flattering.
Surf & Snow
Ideal when light reflects off water or snow. It helps ensure detail is preserved throughout the entire frame while still conveying a beautiful sense of brightness.
Flower
Puts the Optio30 automatically into Macro mode, leaving you ready and equipped to capture close-up detail in glorious colors.
Party
Ensures pleasing exposure for the main subjects with faithful reproduction of surrounding elements.
Food
Capture color and texture in a way that piques the appetite.
Pet
Capture the whites and black tones common to family pets in a pleasing manner along with their natural glow.
Movie
The Optio30 can record soundless movie files up to the available capacity of the selected recording media. It also offers a whole range of related choices – allowing you to select clarity of either 320x240 or 160x120 pixels, and even offering options for full-color, black and white, and sepia shooting. Movie files are also recoded in MOV format to enable easy playback on PC. *Recorded movies can be viewed using ACDSee for PENTAX (on systems with QuickTimeTM installed)
Panorama Assist mode
Allows you to take multiple shots of your subject in vertical or horizontal format, and then align and combine them using the user-friendly software provided.
Digital filters for fun and creative results
A key digital benefit of the Optio30 is the ability to apply filters to shots after they’ve already been taken. There’s a choice of 9 different filters, comprising black and white, sepia, red, pink, purple, blue, green, yellow, and brightness.
PictBridge compatibility
The Optio30 supports PictBridge,a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association). Just connect the Optio30 via USB to a printer supporting PictBridge to make printouts of recorded images without the need for a PC and utilize other handy direct functions such as resizing, trimming, and digital filters.
Simple Menu
A crucial element in the success of such a multi-functional camera is the ability to offer simple operation. The Optio30 excels in this area thanks to the incorporation of a Simple Menu. Existing alongside the conventional Full Menu, this convenient additional menu is comprised of only frequently used functions – each accompanied by a simple explanation.
Pentax Optio S4i
The Pentax Optio S4i is a 4 megapixel imager with a 3x optical zoom lens and 1.8 inch LCD screen. It is an updated version of the Optio S4
It comes with a built in 4 mode flash, inbuilt memory of 10MB and a SD card slot. It has a wide array of settings and functions. The S4i is one of the smallest and lightest compact digital cameras on the market and is sure to be popular with photographers on the go.
Buy your Pentax Optio S4i today
For more specifications and links to reviews reviews (as they are written) also see:
- DP Review - Pentax Optio S4i
- Imaging Resource - Pentax Optio S4i
Following is the press release from Pentax announcing the Optio S4i.
Press Release
PENTAX PACKS BIG MONITOR ON A LITTLE DIGITAL: NEW OPTIO S4i CAMERA BOASTS FIRST PENTAX CRADLE CHARGE
GOLDEN, Colorado (February 2, 2004) PENTAX USA packs a hefty 1.8 inch LCD monitor for larger viewing and focusing on the tiny, new Optio S4i digital camera. With 4.0 megapixels and a 3X optical zoom, this latest Optio digital camera also features the first PENTAX digital cradle-style lithium ion recharge base unit. The rechargeable unit design makes it so easy to recharge the Optio S4i. Simply set the camera in the recharge base until it ready to use again.
Featuring the legendary smc PENTAX lens and the unique PENTAX Sliding Lens system that allows the lens to retract fully when the camera is off lens, the Optio S4i is sleek and compact enough to carry everywhere. With the optional, acrylic waterproof housing that is newly-designed for the Optio S4i, everywhere may well include the exciting world of underwater digital photography! For optimal results, the Optio S4i now features both Marine Picture and Marine Movie modes to capture drama of blue underwater hues.
The PENTAX digital advantage doesn’t stop there. Equipped with PictBridge, a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association), the Optio S4i connects directly to your printer so you may print images without the need for a personal computer. For more convenience, the PENTAX Optio S4i includes an ACDSee™ software package that is designed exclusively for PENTAX digital cameras. Valued at $150, the package includes ACDSee™ 5.1, FotoSlate™, FotoCanvas™ and Photostitcher. ACDSee™ digital camera software makes it easy to retrieve, view, manage, print, enhance and share your digital photos.
PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. will preview the Optio S4i on February 11 at the PMA Sneak Peek and the PEPCOM DigitalFocus media events in advance of the 2004 Photo Marketing Association (PMA) Trade Show from February 12-15 in Las Vegas. The camera will ship to retailers in April 2004.
PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, binoculars, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. 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 U.S.A., INC. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX CORPORATION.
December 08, 2003
Pentax Optio 230
It has the standard 2.0 megapixel sensor and 3x optical zoom lens and its array of features is packed in an all plastic casing. This casing cuts down the price (and weight) but is a definite step down from some of the other Optio's metal casings.
Its 3D image capture mode is a fun option and the camera would probably suit someone looking for a good quality entry level digital camera.
Get other quality reviews at:
- Steve's DigiCams - Pentax Optio 230
- Imaging Resource - Pentax Optio 230
- Lets God Digital - Pentax Optio 230
November 24, 2003
Pentax Optio 33LF
Pentax has announced the Pentax Optio 33LF just in time for Christmas. Its got a 3.2 megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom and a great little swivelling LCD monitor.
Also in this range is the weatherproof - Pentax Optio 33WR
Below is the press release:
"Pentax UK Press Release 21/11/03"
Let Pentax Help You 'Go Digital' This Christmas
Introducing the Optio 33LF - the Compact Digital Camera with All-round Potential
To help capture those precious moments this Christmas, Pentax is delighted to announce the release of the Optio 33LF. Combining functionality, versatility and ease-of-use, the Optio 33LF is ideally suited to those eager to discover how easy it is to take, share and enjoy digital photography.
With 3.2 effective megapixels and advanced Pentax technologies, the Optio 33LF achieves high-level clarity and natural colours. What's more, a 3X optical zoom gives you the freedom to frame subjects with great flexibility. It also offers the exceptional advantage of a handy swivelling LCD monitor - an innovation enabling entirely new shooting possibilities through accurate composition from above or below eye level and even round corners!
Main features:
Innovative swiveling LCD monitor and optical viewfinder
The 1.6-inch LCD monitor moves through 180 degrees horizontally and 270 degrees vertically for enhanced compositional versatility. It not only makes self-portraits extremely easy, but also allows for versatile shooting from the waist or above your head to create images that would normally be out of reach or awkward to achieve.
Easy operation
The Optio 33LF offers various shooting modes such as Landscape, Portrait and Snow & Surf, to easily cope with different photographic situations.
With a handy virtual mode dial, shooting mode selection is so simple. Just select the easy-to-understand icon most closely related to your choice of subject, compose, and shoot!
3.2 effective megapixels
Not only is the Optio 33LF simple and stylish, it also offers the imaging power of 3.2 effective megapixels. Such resolution allows for a satisfying level of clarity and detail to be achieved and gives great quality prints.
A powerful 3X optical zoom lens and Macro mode
The Optio33LF features a 3X optical zoom lens (equivalent to a 38-114mm lens in 35mm format). The optical zooming capability can also be combined with 2.7X digital zoom for a total zooming capacity of 8.1X.
The Optio 33LF is part of the award winning Pentax Optio range and is available in stores from 1st December and retails for £229.99.
November 20, 2003
Pentax Optio S4
The Pentax Optio S4 is a great looking little camera. The Optio range has a great reputation and the S4 looks to continue this.
Its got a 4.0 sensor, real image optical viewfinder, 1.6inch LCD, 3x optical lens, continuous shooting mode, 3D imgage and panoramic assist modes plus loads more.
You could take this camera almost anywhere due to its compact nature and versatile list of features.
PC Mag reviews the Pentax Optio S4 and gives it a rating of 4 starts saying:
'Simple styling, small size, and exceptional ease of use mark the Pentax Optio S4. But performance is sluggish, and the company's lack of attention to detail mar the body's otherwise excellent construction....The S4 is a dream to use. The menus are models of clarity— incredibly easy to navigate, even for novices. Controls are simple, well marked, and intelligently placed.'
Check out some online reviews of the Pentax Optio S4 at:
- DP Review - Pentax Optio S4
- Steve's DigiCams - Pentax Optio S4
- Hardware Zone - Pentax Optio S4
November 05, 2003
Pentax *ist D
Pentax's *ist D - 6 megapixel digital SLR - is perhaps one of the more weirdly named camera on the market at the moment.
PC Mag reviewed the Pentax *ist D and gave it a rating of 4 stars out of 5 saying:
'Once you get past the goofy name (pronounced "star-ist D"), Pentax's first digital SLR is a capable, nearly professional-level camera that is a pleasure to use.The *ist D is very solid, especially compared with the all-plastic Canon EOS Digital Rebel. The viewfinder is larger and brighter than the Rebel's, and although both cameras weigh 1.4 pounds, the *ist D is slightly smaller. The *ist D is generally easy to use, but we found some controls awkward—notably the white balance and ISO settings. Pentax does not offer a rechargeable battery; two disposable lithium batteries provide power.'
From all reports its a good solid DSLR - middle of the field when it comes to both price and features.
Read reviews on the Pentax *ist D at:
- DP Review - Pentax *ist D
- DC Resource - Pentax *ist
- Digital Camera HQ
- PC Magazine - Pentax *ist D
- Photographic - Pentax *ist D
