Pentax H90

Pentax Optio H90 Digital Camera User Manual

Model: H90

1. Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the safe and effective use of your Pentax Optio H90 digital camera. The Optio H90 is a compact digital camera equipped with a 12.1-megapixel CCD sensor, a 5x optical zoom lens, and a 2.7-inch LCD monitor. It supports high-definition video recording and various shooting modes to enhance your photography experience.

2. Safety Information

  • Battery Safety: Use only specified batteries. Do not expose batteries to heat or fire. Do not short-circuit or disassemble batteries.
  • Water Exposure: This camera is not waterproof. Avoid exposing it to water or high humidity.
  • Lens Care: Do not touch the lens directly. Clean with a soft, dry cloth designed for optical lenses.
  • Operating Temperature: Operate the camera within the recommended temperature range to prevent malfunction.
  • Disassembly: Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the camera. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

  • Pentax Optio H90 Camera Body
  • Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Battery Charger
  • USB Cable
  • Strap
  • Software CD-ROM
  • User Manual (this document)

4. Camera Overview

Familiarize yourself with the camera's components.

4.1 Front View

Pentax Optio H90 Front View

Image 4.1: Front view of the Pentax Optio H90 camera, showing the lens, flash, and self-timer lamp.

  • Lens: Optical 5x zoom lens.
  • Flash: Provides illumination in low-light conditions.
  • Self-Timer Lamp: Indicates self-timer operation.

4.2 Back View

Pentax Optio H90 Back View

Image 4.2: Back view of the Pentax Optio H90 camera, displaying the LCD monitor and control buttons.

  • LCD Monitor: 2.7-inch display for viewing images, videos, and menu options.
  • Zoom Lever: Controls optical zoom.
  • Playback Button: Enters playback mode.
  • MENU Button: Accesses camera settings.
  • OK Button: Confirms selections and displays information.
  • MODE Button: Selects shooting modes.
  • Delete Button: Deletes images or videos.

4.3 Top View

Pentax Optio H90 Top View

Image 4.3: Top view of the Pentax Optio H90 camera, showing the power button and shutter button.

  • Power Button: Turns the camera on or off.
  • Shutter Button: Captures photos.

4.4 Side View

Pentax Optio H90 Side View

Image 4.4: Side view of the Pentax Optio H90 camera, highlighting the USB port and strap lug.

  • USB Port: Connects the camera to a computer for data transfer.
  • Strap Lug: Attachment point for the camera strap.

5. Setup

5.1 Charging and Installing the Battery

  1. Insert the battery into the charger and connect the charger to a power outlet. The charging indicator will illuminate.
  2. Once charging is complete (indicator changes or turns off), remove the battery.
  3. Open the battery cover on the bottom of the camera.
  4. Insert the charged battery into the camera, ensuring correct orientation. Close the battery cover securely.

5.2 Inserting a Memory Card

The Optio H90 supports SD/SDHC memory cards.

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

5.3 Initial Settings (Date and Time)

Upon first power-on or after battery replacement, you may need to set the date and time.

  1. Press the Power button to turn on the camera.
  2. If prompted, use the directional buttons to set the date, time, and time zone.
  3. Press the OK button to confirm each setting.

6. Basic Operation

6.1 Powering On and Off

  • To Power On: Press the Power button located on the top of the camera.
  • To Power Off: Press the Power button again. The lens will retract.

6.2 Taking Still Photos

  1. Turn on the camera. Ensure it is in a shooting mode (e.g., Auto Picture mode).
  2. Frame your subject using the LCD monitor.
  3. Use the zoom lever to adjust the focal length (5x optical zoom, 28mm-140mm equivalent).
  4. Press the shutter button halfway down to focus. The focus frame will turn green when focus is achieved.
  5. Press the shutter button fully down to capture the image.

6.3 Recording Videos

The Optio H90 can record high-definition video clips (1280 x 720 pixels at 30 fps).

  1. Turn on the camera.
  2. Press the MODE button and select the Movie mode.
  3. Press the shutter button to start recording. A recording indicator will appear on the screen.
  4. Press the shutter button again to stop recording.

6.4 Playback Mode

To view captured images and videos:

  1. Press the Playback button.
  2. Use the directional buttons to navigate through your photos and videos.
  3. Press the OK button to view details or play a video.
  4. Press the Playback button again to return to shooting mode.

7. Advanced Features

7.1 Shooting Modes

The Optio H90 offers various shooting modes for different scenarios:

  • Auto Picture Mode: Automatically selects one of eight shooting modes for optimal results.
  • Scene Modes: Includes options like Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Flower, Sports, Snow, Sunset, Museum, Kids, Pet, Surf & Sand, Baby, Fireworks, Blue Sky, Green, Sepia, B&W, and Color.
  • Digital Panorama Mode: Creates a single panoramic picture from multiple images.
  • Digital Wide Function: Combines two images to create an extra-wide-angle picture (approx. 21mm equivalent).

7.2 Digital Filters

Apply distinctive visual effects to your images:

  • Toy Camera: Creates a vignetted, color-shifted effect.
  • Retro: Gives images a vintage, aged look.
  • Other filters include Sepia and B&W.

7.3 Face Detection and Related Functions

  • Face Detection AF & AE: Detects up to 32 faces and optimizes focus and exposure.
  • Smile Capture: Automatically releases the shutter when a smile is detected.
  • Blink Detection: Alerts you if a subject's eyes were closed during the shot.

7.4 Eye-Fi Connectivity

The Optio H90 is optimized for use with Eye-Fi wireless memory cards for easy image transfer. Refer to your Eye-Fi card's manual for specific setup and usage instructions. Ensure the camera's firmware is updated for optimal Eye-Fi functionality.

7.5 Shake Reduction (SR)

  • Pixel Track SR: Compensates for camera shake during still-image shooting.
  • Movie SR: Automatically compensates camera shake during movie capture for stabilized video clips. Note that the angle of view may become narrower in Movie SR mode.

8. Maintenance

8.1 Cleaning the Camera

  • Camera Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water and then wipe dry.
  • Lens: Use a lens brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth. Do not use solvents.
  • LCD Monitor: Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid pressing hard on the screen.

8.2 Battery Care

  • Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
  • Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently to prolong its lifespan.
  • If the camera will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery.

8.3 Storage

Store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and strong magnetic fields. Use a camera case for protection during transport.

9. Troubleshooting

ProblemSolution
Camera does not power on.Ensure the battery is charged and correctly inserted. Check if the battery cover is securely closed.
Images are blurry.Hold the camera steady. Ensure the lens is clean. Check focus before fully pressing the shutter button. Use Pixel Track SR in low light.
Flash does not fire.Check flash settings to ensure it is set to Auto or Forced Flash mode. Ensure the subject is within flash range.
Memory card error.Ensure the memory card is correctly inserted. Try formatting the card (this will erase all data). Use a different memory card if the issue persists.
Camera freezes.Remove and reinsert the battery to reset the camera. If the issue persists, contact customer support.

10. Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NamePentax Optio H90
Effective Still Resolution12.1 Megapixels
Photo Sensor TechnologyCCD
Optical Zoom5x
Focal Length28mm - 140mm (35mm equivalent)
Screen Size2.7 inches
Display TypeLCD (230,000 dots)
Video Resolution1280 x 720 (30 fps)
Image StabilizationSensor-shift (Pixel Track SR)
Supported File FormatJPEG, RAW
Flash Memory TypeSD/SDHC, Internal (32.7 MB)
Connectivity TechnologyUSB, EyeFi (Wireless)
Item Weight5.44 ounces
ColorCeramic White

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Pentax website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Online Support: Visit the Pentax Store on Amazon

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