Pentax K-x Digital SLR Camera Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of your Pentax K-x Digital SLR camera. The Pentax K-x is a high-performance digital SLR featuring a 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor, sensor-shift Shake Reduction, and HD video recording capabilities. This kit includes the versatile 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL lens, offering a broad range of photographic opportunities.

Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your camera and retain it for future reference.

Figure 1.1: Pentax K-x Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm lens (Angled Front View)

2. Setup

2.1. Unpacking and Checking Contents

Carefully unpack your Pentax K-x camera and verify that all items are present:

• Pentax K-x Digital SLR Camera Body
• SMC Pentax-DAL 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL Lens
• USB Cable I-USB7
• Strap O-ST53
• Hotshoe Cover FK
• Eyecup FQ
• Body Mount Cover
• Software CD-ROM S-SW99
• AA Lithium Batteries (x4)

2.2. Battery Installation

The Pentax K-x operates on four AA batteries. For optimal performance and battery life, lithium AA batteries are recommended. NiMH rechargeable and alkaline AA batteries are also compatible.

1. Open the battery compartment cover located on the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert four AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

2.3. Lens Attachment

To attach the 18-55mm lens:

1. Remove the body mount cover from the camera body and the rear cap from the lens.
2. Align the red index mark on the lens barrel with the red index mark on the camera's lens mount.
3. Insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place.

Figure 2.1: Front View of Pentax K-x with 18-55mm Lens Attached

2.4. Memory Card Insertion

The Pentax K-x uses SD/SDHC memory cards (not included). Ensure the camera is turned off before inserting or removing the memory card.

1. Open the memory card slot cover on the side of the camera.
2. Insert the SD/SDHC card with the label facing the front of the camera until it clicks into place.
3. Close the memory card slot cover.

Figure 2.2: Left Side View of Pentax K-x, showing SD Card Slot

3. Operating the Camera

3.1. Camera Controls Overview

Familiarize yourself with the main controls of your Pentax K-x.

Figure 3.1: Rear View of Pentax K-x with LCD and Control Buttons

• Mode Dial: Located on the top of the camera, used to select shooting modes (e.g., Auto Picture, P, Av, Tv, M, Scene Modes).
• Shutter Button: On the top grip, used to take photos.
• Power Switch: Surrounds the shutter button.
• LCD Monitor: 2.7-inch display on the back for Live View, menu navigation, and image playback.
• INFO Button: Displays shooting information on the LCD.
• MENU Button: Accesses camera settings.
• Four-way Controller (with OK button): Used for navigation and selection in menus, and for specific functions in shooting mode (e.g., ISO, White Balance).
• Live View (LV) Button: Activates/deactivates Live View on the LCD.
• AF/MF Switch: On the lens barrel, switches between autofocus and manual focus.

3.2. Basic Photography

For quick and easy shooting, use the Auto Picture mode. The camera automatically selects the optimal settings for the scene.

1. Turn the mode dial to AUTO PICT.
2. Frame your subject through the viewfinder or by activating Live View.
3. Press the shutter button halfway to focus, then press fully to take the picture.

The K-x also offers various Scene Modes (e.g., Portrait, Landscape, Macro) for specific shooting situations. Select the desired scene mode from the mode dial.

3.3. Advanced Photography

For more creative control, the K-x provides Program (P), Aperture Priority (Av), Shutter Priority (Tv), and Manual (M) modes. These modes allow you to adjust settings such as ISO (100-12800), aperture, and shutter speed.

• Autofocus System: The responsive 11-point wide-angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, even tracking moving subjects.
• Shake Reduction: The sensor-shift Shake Reduction mechanism provides image stabilization for both photos and videos, reducing blur caused by camera shake.
• HDR Capture: The camera can blend three bracketed images into a single picture to produce High Dynamic Range (HDR) images with enhanced detail in shadows and highlights.
• Continuous Shooting: Capture fast-moving action with a continuous shooting speed of 4.7 frames per second (fps).

3.4. Video Recording

The Pentax K-x can record widescreen HD video in 720p resolution (1280x720) at a cinematic frame rate of 24fps.

1. Turn the mode dial to the movie icon.
2. Press the Live View (LV) button to activate Live View.
3. Press the shutter button to start and stop recording.

Note: During video recording, the camera's built-in microphone may pick up operational sounds from the Shake Reduction system. This is a characteristic of the camera's design.

3.5. Image Playback and Creative Filters

To review your photos and videos, press the Playback button. The K-x also includes creative processing and filter modes to apply unique special effects to your images directly in-camera.

4. Maintenance

4.1. Cleaning the Camera

• Camera Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water. Avoid using organic solvents.
• Lens: Use a lens brush or blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a lens cleaning solution and a clean lens cloth.
• Image Sensor: Cleaning the image sensor should be done with extreme care. Refer to the detailed instructions in the full user manual or consult a professional service center.

4.2. Battery Care

When not using the camera for extended periods, remove the AA batteries to prevent leakage. Store batteries in a cool, dry place. If using rechargeable NiMH batteries, ensure they are fully charged before use and discharged periodically to maintain their capacity.

4.3. Storage

Store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and humidity. Use the body cap and lens caps to protect the sensor and lens elements.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Pentax K-x camera. For more detailed troubleshooting, please refer to the comprehensive user manual.

• Camera does not power on: Check battery installation and ensure batteries have sufficient charge. Try new batteries.
• Blurred images: Ensure the lens is clean. Check focus mode (AF/MF switch). Verify shutter speed is appropriate for lighting conditions and subject movement. Ensure Shake Reduction is active if needed.
• Autofocus issues: Ensure the AF/MF switch is set to AF. In very low light, the camera may struggle to focus; try using manual focus or a brighter light source.
• Video audio noise: As noted in Section 3.4, operational sounds from the Shake Reduction system may be recorded. This is normal.
• Battery indicator issues: If using rechargeable AA batteries, the battery indicator may sometimes show a low charge prematurely. This is a known characteristic; the camera may still have significant power remaining.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For information regarding your product's warranty, please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging or visit the official Pentax website for your region. For technical support, service, or inquiries, please contact PENTAX RICOH IMAGING CANADA INC. or your local authorized Pentax service center.

Always ensure you are using official Pentax accessories and following recommended procedures to maintain your warranty validity.