1. Introduction
The Pentax DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED Telephoto Zoom Lens is designed for Pentax and Samsung digital SLR cameras, offering a versatile focal length equivalent to 82.5mm to 450mm in the 35mm format. This lens incorporates Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements to minimize chromatic aberration, ensuring crisp and sharp images. The Pentax Super Protective (SP) coating protects exposed lens elements from dirt and contamination. This manual provides essential information for the proper use and care of your lens.
Figure 1: Side view of the Pentax DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED Telephoto Zoom Lens.
2. Setup and Installation
2.1 Attaching the Lens to the Camera Body
- Ensure both the camera and lens are powered off.
- Remove the rear lens cap from the lens and the body cap from the camera.
- Align the red mounting index mark on the lens barrel with the corresponding mark on the camera body.
- Insert the lens into the camera's lens mount and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
Figure 2: Rear view of the lens, illustrating the camera mount interface.
2.2 Attaching the Lens Hood (PH-RBG 58mm)
The included lens hood helps to prevent stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting.
- Align the mark on the lens hood with the mark on the front of the lens.
- Turn the hood clockwise until it locks securely into place.
- For storage, the lens hood can be reversed and attached to the lens.
Figure 3: The lens shown alongside its dedicated PH-RBG 58mm lens hood.
3. Operating the Lens
3.1 Zooming
To adjust the focal length, rotate the zoom ring on the lens barrel. The lens offers a focal range from 55mm (wide-angle telephoto) to 300mm (super telephoto).
Figure 4: The lens with visible zoom markings (55, 70, 100).
3.2 Focusing
This lens supports both autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF).
- Autofocus: Set your camera to AF mode. The lens will automatically focus on your subject.
- Manual Focus: Set your camera to MF mode. Rotate the focusing ring on the lens barrel to achieve sharp focus. The focusing ring permits easy manual focusing even when the camera is set to AF.
The minimum focusing distance for this lens is approximately 4.6 feet (1.4 meters).
Figure 5: Front angled view of the lens, showing the focusing ring and front element.
3.3 Aperture Control
The lens features a maximum aperture of f/4 at 55mm, gradually changing to f/5.8 at 300mm. The minimum aperture ranges from f/22 to f/32, depending on the focal length. Aperture control is fully automatic and managed by the camera body.
4. Maintenance and Care
4.1 Cleaning the Lens
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a lens brush to gently remove dust from the lens surfaces.
- For smudges or fingerprints, apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to a clean microfiber cloth and wipe the lens surface in a circular motion.
- The Pentax Super Protective (SP) coating on the front element helps repel dust, water, and grease, making cleaning easier.
- Never use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals on the lens.
4.2 Storage
- Always attach the front and rear lens caps when the lens is not in use.
- Store the lens in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- If storing for extended periods, consider using a dehumidifier or desiccant to prevent mold growth.
5. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your lens.
- Lens not attaching to camera: Ensure the red index marks are aligned and the lens is rotated clockwise until it clicks. Do not force.
- Autofocus not working:
- Check if the camera is set to AF mode.
- Ensure there is sufficient light and contrast for the autofocus system to operate.
- Clean the lens contacts on both the lens and camera body.
- Blurry images:
- Verify that the lens is properly focused (either manually or via autofocus).
- Check your shutter speed; use a faster shutter speed to prevent camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths.
- Ensure the lens elements are clean.
- Dust or spots on images: This is often due to dust on the camera sensor, not the lens. Refer to your camera's manual for sensor cleaning procedures.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 21720 |
| Focal Length | 55-300mm |
| 35mm Equivalent Focal Length | 82.5-450mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4 (at 55mm) to f/5.8 (at 300mm) |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 to f/32 |
| Lens Construction | 12 elements in 8 groups (with ED glass elements) |
| Angle of View | 29 to 5.4 degrees (with Pentax digital SLR) |
| Number of Diaphragm Blades | 6 |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 4.6 feet (1.4 meters) |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.28x |
| Filter Diameter | 58mm |
| Diaphragm Control | Fully automatic |
| Compatible Mounts | Pentax and Samsung AF mounts |
| Dimensions (Diameter x Length) | 2.8 inches x 4.4 inches (7.1 cm x 11.2 cm) |
| Weight | 15.5 ounces (439 grams) |
| Included Accessories | PH-RBG 58mm Lens Hood, O-LC58 Objective Cap, S80-160 Case |
7. Warranty Information
The Pentax DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED Telephoto Zoom Lens carries a one-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures the product meets Pentax's quality standards. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For specific terms and conditions, refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Pentax support website.
8. Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Pentax DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED Telephoto Zoom Lens, please contact Pentax customer support.
- Online Support: Visit the official Pentax website for FAQs, driver downloads, and service information.
- Contact Information: Refer to the contact details provided on the Pentax website or in your product packaging for phone or email support.
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