Pentax USA Press Release 24/08/04

GOLDEN, Colorado (August 24,  2004)...PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER Magazine has awarded two HOT1 Awards to PENTAX Imaging Company for the two digital SLR lenses in the PENTAX DA-series. Positioned as the perfect companion lenses for the *ist D digital SLR camera, the magazine has recognized the smc PENTAX-DA 16mm-45mm F4 ED AL lens and the smc PENTAX-DA 14mm F2.8 ED [IF] interchangeable wide-angle lens.

The compact, high-performance, interchangeable smc PENTAX-DA 16mm-45mm F4 ED AL lens features a 3X zoom ratio with focal lengths covering ultra-wide to moderate-telephoto ranges for the angle of view equivalent to 24.5mm-69mm in the 35mm format.  The smc PENTAX-DA 14mm F2.8 ED [IF] interchangeable wide-angle lens is the second model of the DA-series lineup.  At 14.8 ounces and measuring just 2.7 inches long and 3.3 inches in diameter, the lens is one of the lightest in its category.

All DA-Series lenses feature the responsive ?Quick-Shift Focus System? to allow photographers to instantly switch the focus mode from auto to manual with a slight twist of the focus ring.  Coupled with a simple, functional design and the elimination of an aperture ring, this new mechanism considerably improves the camera?s operability.  The lens also incorporates an Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass lens element and two aspherical lens elements for true-to-life image reproduction and overall size reduction.  The image circle in DA-series lenses is designed to perfectly match the 23.5mm x 15.7mm size of the CCD used in PENTAX digital SLRs to optimize camera performance.  The new design also contributes to a drastic reduction in size, weight and production cost, compared to 35mm-format.

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras and lenses, 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.  PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX Corporation of Japan.