PENTAX Introduces smc PENTAX DA 17-70mm f/4 AL SDM Lens

Business Wire, June 3, 2008

GOLDEN, Colo. -- PENTAX Imaging Company has introduced the smc PENTAX DA 17-70mm f/4 AL [IF] SDM interchangeable zoom lens designed for exclusive use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras. This standard lens with extra zoom offers outstanding, well-balanced handling, and covers the most frequently used focal lengths between wide-angle and telephoto making it ideal for a variety of shots including scenery, snapshot and portraiture.

Previously shown in February at PMA 2008, this lens features a 4.1X zoom ratio covering wide-angle to moderate-telephoto ranges, and covers a focal-length range from 26mm wide angle to 107mm telephoto in the 35mm format. When mounted on a compatible(a) DSLR camera body, the PENTAX-original SDM system driven by a built-in supersonic motor, offers exceptionally smooth, quiet autofocus.

((a)) This lens is compatible with the K20D, K200D, K100D Super and K10D (with Ver. 1.30 or later firmware installed) and later PENTAX DSLR camera bodies. When mounted on other camera bodies, the focus mode is automatically switched to manual.

Developed specifically for PENTAX digital SLRs,(b) this 17-70mm lens also features PENTAX SP (Super Protect) coating that protects the exposed lens elements and repels dust, water and grease. It also features a Quick-shift Focus System that allows instant switching from auto to manual focus with a turn of the focus ring.

((b))SDM-only focusing lens may be used with non-SDM PENTAX DSLR bodies in manual focus mode.

Other important features of this lens include:

[TABLE OMITTED]

SPECIFICATIONS

Lens mount: PENTAX KAF3 mount
Lens construction: 17 elements in 12 groups
Angle of view: 79(degree) - 23(degree) (with PENTAX D-SLR camera body)
Number of diaphragm blades: 7
Minimum aperture: F/22
Minimum focusing distance: 0.28m (0.92 ft.)
Filter size: 67mm
Maximum magnification: 0.31X
Dimensions (diameter x length): 75mm x 93.5mm (3.0 inch x 3.7 inch)
Weight: 485g (17.1 oz.) without hood; 515g (18.2 oz.) with hood

This PENTAX lens will ship in July 2008 at U.S. $599.95.

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital SLR and compact cameras, lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces. 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.

PENTAX and smc PENTAX are trademarks of HOYA CORPORATION.

Design and Specifications are subject to change without notice.