PENTAX Introduces Long Anticipated Digital SLR and Two Lenses to U.S. Market
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. Aug. 8, 2003 PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. announced that the long anticipated digital SLR *ist D camera (pronounced ist-dee) will begin shipping in September 2003 to the United States.
Housed in one of the world's smallest, lightest SLR camera bodies, the *ist D comes equipped with an array of advanced functions and user-friendly features, including an APS-sized CCD with impressive 6.1 effective megapixels, a responsive SAFOX VIII autofocus system with 11-point AF sensor, a sophisticated 16-segment multi-pattern metering system, a bright viewfinder with a newly developed compact glass pentaprism, an innovative "Hyper" operating system and 22 user-adjustable custom functions. The *ist D is compatible with existing PENTAX 35mm-format interchangeable lenses and accessories.(a)

To further delight advanced users, PENTAX will expand its interchangeable lens lineup for *ist D users with two new lenses in the coming months: the smc PENTAX-FA J Zoom 18mm-35mm FA-F5.6 AL (equivalent to 27.5mm-53.5mm in 35mm), and the first model of a new DA series designed to match the *ist D CCD size’‚’‚…‚’‚‚‚‚, the PENTAX-DA Zoom 26mm-45mm F4 ED AL.

The new *ist D features a user-friendly direct-access operation system so users may adjust many digital camera functions, such as white balance control, with pushbutton ease to eliminate the trouble of recalling the menu settings each time the camera is used. Offering a combination of high-resolution digital images with SLR photography, PENTAX suggests the new *ist D will outperform competitive digital SLR camera models currently on the market. This high-performance PENTAX digital SLR camera will have tremendous appeal for a wide range of photographers, both compact digital and conventional 35mm SLR users, looking for superior image quality and SLR versatility and the convenience and benefits of the advanced digital format.

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. PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX CORPORATION.

(a) Some restrictions and conditions may apply to certain lenses and accessories.

Note to Editors: News release available for download at: http://www.pentaxusa.com/news/news_current.cfm.

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