Pentax Press Release 12/02/04

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

A second PENTAX digital product under development - a wide-angle interchangeable lens for the *ist D digital SLR - also has been announced. The smc PENTAX-DA 14mm F2.8 ED (IF) is extremely compact, measuring 2.7 inches long and 3.3 inches in diameter. Featuring the reliable PENTAX KAF lens mount and high-performance 12-element, 11-group optics, it offers a focal length of 14mm (equivalent to 21.5mm in the 35mm format), and a minimum focusing distance of 0.7 inches. An innovative Quick-Shift Focus system enables the lens user to instantly switch the focus mode from auto to manual with a slight twist of the focus ring. The PENTAX-DA 14mm also offers a 77mm-size filter thread for quick, effortless mounting and removal of a filter.

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.