PENTAX Canada Inc.
(
1770 Argentia Road
Information
Mississauga, ON
L5N 3S7 CANADA
Telephone: (905) 286-5585
Facsimile:
905) 286-5586
PENTAX Announces the High-Performance
K20D Digital SLR Camera
Mississauga, ON – January 23, 2008
PENTAX is pleased to announce the introduction of the K20D digital SLR camera. Successor
model to the multiple award-winning K10D, the K20D offers superb image quality, an array of
advanced features and outstanding reliability and operability to meet the specialized and exacting
demands of discerning photographers.
The new CMOS image sensor, exclusively developed for the K20D, is designed to optimize the
performance of PENTAX interchangeable lenses. Featuring approximately 14.6 effective
megapixels and the latest noise-reduction technology, it assures superb image quality a step above
its predecessors.
The K20D also offers an array of advanced features and user-friendly functions, including a new
Custom Image function that lets you select or adjust the image’s finishing touches to your
preference, an upgraded, more reliable SR (Shake Reduction) system, a comprehensive Dust
Removal system, a multi-mode exposure system for faithful reproduction of your creative
intentions, and a rugged dust-proof, water-resistant body construction that will keep you shooting,
rain, dust or shine.
Main Features
High-quality image reproduction
1.
[1] Newly developed CMOS image sensor:
The K20D features a newly developed CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor)
image sensor measuring 23.4 mm x 15.6 mm. After a thorough review of previous image sensors,
PENTAX greatly reduced the area of circuitry around the pixel field to expand the light-sensitive
area, resulting in about the same pixel size as 12 megapixel sensors used in other DSLRs. This
also results in a sensor that is not as thick that will accept light at a steeper angle. The sensor can
detect diagonal light with great accuracy, bringing out the optimum performance of PENTAX
interchangeable lenses. It also keeps digital noise to a minimum by automatically raising its own
sensitivity, allowing it to increase the sensitivity from ISO 100 to the highest level of ISO 6400
(via a custom function).
[2] Approximately 14.6 effective megapixels for true-to-life, rich-gradation images:
The K20D features a newly-developed 14.6 MP CMOS sensor. Coupled with a high-performance
imaging engine incorporating PENTAX-original image-processing technologies, it assures finedetailed, rich-gradation images. The K20D also features a new Custom Image function, which
lets the photographer select one of six finishing touches to reflect his or her creative intentions
with great ease with the ability to further fine tune them.
[3] High-performance, high-speed PRIME imaging engine:
The K20D incorporates the PENTAX-original PRIME (Pentax Real IMage Engine) as its
imaging engine. Designed exclusively for PENTAX digital SLR cameras, it assures wellbalanced, true-to-life images with faithful colour reproduction by efficiently controlling digital
signals transmitted by the CMOS image sensor and other photographic factors, including white
balance. This imaging engine also features a DDR2 (Double Data Rate 2) memory to assure
speedy image processing and high-speed data transfer.
2.
PENTAX-original SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism
The K20D is equipped with the PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which
effectively reduces camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting
conditions, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting at night without supplementary flash
illumination, or using extended exposures for sunset scenes. This innovative mechanism offers an
outstanding compensation effect equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter-speed steps. The
lighter image sensor unit and refined data-control algorithm provide further image stabilization
resulting in more effective SR operation. This SR system extends outstanding shake-reduction
benefits to nearly all existing PENTAX interchangeable lenses.*
* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount lenses, screw-mount
lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system len ses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be
applicable with certain lenses.
New Live View function
3.
The K20D features a new Live View function, which allows the user to view the image on the
LCD monitor during shooting. This comes in handy when the photographer must move their eye
from the viewfinder in specialized applications, such as low- and high-angle compositions. This
function also allows the user to confirm the shake-reduction effect on the monitor during
shooting.
4.
Expanded Dynamic Range function
The K20D has added a dynamic-range expansion function, which allows the user to expand a
dynamic range (or a range of gradation reproduction) while retaining the proper contrast to avoid
white-washed areas. With an approximately 1EV expansion effect, it assures beautiful, richgradation images.
Comprehensive Dust Removal system
5.
The K20D features the user-friendly Dust Removal (DR) system to prevent dust from sticking to
the surface of the CMOS image sensor (or low-pass filter). Applied to the image sensor surface
through the vapor deposition of a fluorine compound, the PENTAX-original SP (Super Protect)
coating effectively prevents dust and stains from sticking to the surface. Any dust that remains on
the surface of the image sensor is shaken off when the SR system shifts the image sensor at high
speed. Dust that is shaken off the image sensor falls onto an adhesive sheet positioned at the
bottom of the SR unit, eliminating any possibility of its returning to the image sensor surface.
This upgraded DR system offers a new Dust Alert function, which allows the user to check for
dust on the image sensor in advance.
6. Custom Image function
The K20D is equipped with a new Custom Image function that lets the user select one of six
modes and then, if desired, to further adjust the image’s finishing touches to their preference.
Allowing a minor adjustment to tone, saturation, contrast, and sharpness, this function enables the
user to take photographs that truly reflect their photographic vision. The user easily operates the
selection and adjustment process by recording a preview image and checking the effect as they
make the adjustments.
7.
Versatile exposure system for faithful reproduction
[1] Hyper Program function:
The K20D’s Hyper Program function allows the user to instantly switch to the Shutter- or
Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode, with a simple turn of the electronic
dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed AE mode, simply press the green button
positioned next to the shutter release button. The advantage this gives relative to Program Shift is
that should the lighting change before the shutter is released, the desired shutter speed or aperture
is still used while the other variable adjusts to maintain the correct exposure. Select from one of
four different program curves, including MTF (optimum aperture)
[2] Hyper Manual function:
When shooting in Manual mode, a single push of the green button allows the user to instantly set
the proper exposure for the subject. The user can then either take the image or quickly shift the
exposure to obtain a desired degree of over- or under-exposure.
[3] Sensitivity-Priority mode:
The K20D features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode, which is designed to automatically
select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a user-selected sensitivity. The
sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3 steps by turning the electronic dial on the back
panel.
[4] Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode:
Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras permitting automatic shift of
sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects the most
appropriate sensitivity for a user-selected shutter-speed/aperture combination. It allows the user to
experiment with a greater range of photographic expressions with ease, allowing the depth of
field and degree of subject movement blur to be maintained even if the lighting changes.
8.
Bright, clear viewfinder
Featuring a glass pentaprism, the K20D’s viewfinder offers an approximately 95-percent field of
view and an approximately 0.95-times magnification for easy viewing of the subject and
effortless confirmation of focus and composition. Coupled with the acclaimed Natural-BrightMatte II focusing screen, it delivers a large, bright subject image.
9.
Dust-proof, water-resistant construction
The K20D boasts an extremely reliable dust-proof, water-resistant construction, with special seals
applied to 74 different parts of the camera body, including the shutter release button and all the
switches, levers and dials, making it possible for you use the K20D in the rain or in dusty
locations without worries.
Continuous shooting to capture all the action
10.
To trace the movement of an active subject or capture a sequence of the events, the K20D offers a
continuous shooting mode that allows the user to capture as many as 38 images in succession (in
JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately three images per second. When
switched to the new high-speed advance mode, the user can take up to approximately 115 images
at the speed of approximately 21 images per second.**
** The image size is fixed at 1.6 megapixels in JPEG format in the Burst Shooting mode.
11. Large 2.7-inch wide-view LCD monitor
The K20D features a large 2.7-inch colour LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots on its
back panel and allows you to zoom in on the image up to 32X. Its wide-view design allows the
user to check the monitor image from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally
and facilitates low- and high-angle shooting when using the Live View function.
12.
High-precision 11-point wide-frame AF
The K20D’s sophisticated SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine
cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to automatically focus on the subject with utmost
precision, regardless of where they are in the frame. When the subject is captured in focus, the infocus sensor point is automatically superimposed in red in the viewfinder for at-a-glance
confirmation.
13.
Powerful long-life rechargeable battery
The K20D uses the large capacity D-LI50 lithium-ion rechargeable battery which can capture
approximately 740 images*** (approximately 50% more when compared with conventional
cameras) when fully recharged. Drastic improvement of battery capacity is realized thanks to the
energy saving design of all electrical components.
*** Under testing condition prescribed by PENTAX, when using D-LI50 lithium-ion rechargeable battery with no flash
Other features
14.
Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering
to accommodate various photographic applications
Reliable, durable shutter unit assuring more than 100,000 shutter releases
High-rigidity cold rolled stainless-steel chassis
36 custom functions to personalize camera operations
Universal-type X-sync socket (new feature) allowing direct connection of studio flash
systems
Customizable RAW button for single-action image-file type switching
Digital Preview that allows previewing and recording of the preview image
Optional Battery Grip (D-BG2) available for extended shooting sessions
Nine digital filters to add creative and artistic touches
In-body RAW data development for images to either JPEG and TIFF format
Compatibility with SDM equipped lenses for quiet, extra-smooth autofocus operation
PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 3, RAW data processing software, PENTAX PHOTO
Browser 3, browser software and PENTAX REMOTE Assistant 3, camera control software,
included on the accompanying CD-ROM
PENTAX Canada Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX Corporation of Japan and
maintains offices in Mississauga. PENTAX markets cameras, lenses, binoculars, surveying
equipment, closed circuit television lenses and medical equipment.
PENTAX on the web at
www.pentax.ca
♦ PENTAX, and smc PENTAX are trademarks of PENTAX Corporation
♦ PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory, PENTAX PHOTO Browser, PENTAX REMOTE Assistant, and SDM
are
trademarks of PENTAX Corporation
♦ All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
companies
♦ Designs and specifications are subjects to change without notice
K20D Main Specifications
y)
y
m
1
m
1
y
y
p
g
g
K
K
K
K
Effective Pixels
Image Sensor Total pixels
Type
Size
Colour Depth
Recorded Pixels
Sensitivity (Standard output sensitivit
Recording Formats
Image Formats
Storage Media
White Balance
T
Viewfinder
pe Pentaprism type
Focusing screen Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen
Field of view approx. 95%
Magnification
Diopter adjustment
T
LCD Monitor
pe TFT colour LCD monitor, brightness adjustable, Colour adjustable, Wide angle view
Size 2.7 inch
approx.14.6 megapixels
approx.15.07 megapixels
CMOS with a primary colour filter
23.4mm x 15.6mm
8 bit (JPEG) or 12 bit (RAW)
JPEG: [14.6M] 4672 x3104 pixels, [10M] 3872 x 2592 pixels, [2M] 1824 x 1216 pixels
RAW: [14.6M] 4672 x 3104 pixels
Auto, Manual : ISO100 - 3200 (1EV steps or 1/2EV steps) can be expand to ISO6400, Bulb mode: up to ISO1600
RAW(Original), JPEG (Conforms to Exif 2.21), Conforms to DCF (Design rule of Camera File system)2.0
Compressed: JPEG - Baseline (★★★★: Premium ,★★★: Best , ★★: Better, ★: Good) , RAW+JPEG : available
Compressed: RAW (PEF)
Non-compressed: RAW (DNG)
SD , SDHC memory card
Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten Light, Fluorescent Light (W, D, N), Flash, Manual setting, with WB fine adjustment
approx.0.95X (with 50mm F1.4 lens, infinity, -1
approx. -2.5 - +1.5
-
-
)
Dots approx. 230,000 dots
Live View
Field of view
Displa
Preview Method
Playback
Digital Filter
Focusing System Type
Focus Mode
Focus Point
AF assist lam
Image Stabilizer Type
Dust Removal Type
Exposure Control Metering System
Metering Mode
Exposure Range
Modes
Exposure Compensation
Auto-bracketin
AE Lock
Shutter Shutter Type
Shutter Speed
Drive Modes
Continuous shootin
Burst mode
Built-in Flash Type
Guide number
Angle of view coverage
Flash Synchronization
Data Folder Folder Name
File Name
Power Sources
Battery Life
Number of recordable images
Playback time
Interfaces
Lens Mount
Usable Lens
Dimensions
Weight
*1 Recording capacity shows approximate number of shots recorded during CIPA-compliant testing. Actual performance may vary depending on operating conditions.
*2 According to the result of PENTAX in-house testing.
TTL by Image sensor
approx. 100%
Enlargement (4X, 8X) , Grid pattern
Live View, Digital preview, Optical preview
One Image, Two Images, Index (4 or 9 or 16 thumb nails), Enlargement (up to 32X, scroll available), Image Rotation,
Folder view, Slideshow, Histogram, Bright/Dark area
B&W (4 type), Sepia (3 type), Colour (18 type), Colour extract (6 type), Soft (three-level amount adjustable), Illustration,
HDR (3 type), Slim (+/- 8 level amount adjustable), Brightness (+/- 8 level amount adjustable)
TTL Phase-matching 11-point wide autofocus system (SAFOX VIII)
AF-single (with focus lock); AF-continuous available*
Manual focus
Auto, Select, Center
available (by Built-in Flash)
Image sensor shift mechanism , Max 4 stops
Image sensor moving mechanism and SP coating with Dust Alert
TTL open-aperture 16-segment metering (coupled with lens and AF information)
(1) Multi-segment metering (2) Center-weighted metering (3) Spot metering
EV 0 - 21 (at Standard Output Sensitivity 100 with 50mm F1.4 lens)
(1) Green, (2) Program AE, (3) Sensitivity-Priority AE, (4) Shutter-Priority AE, (5) Aperture-Priority AE,
(6) Shutter and Aperture Priority AE, (7) Metered Manual, (8) X speed, (9) Bulb
±3 EV (0.5EV steps) , ±2 EV (0.3EV steps)
3 or 5 frames within range of ±0.5EV, ±1.0EV, ±1.5EV, ±2.0EV (0.5EV steps) or ±0.3EV, ±0.7EV, ±1.0EV, ±1.3EV, ±1.7EV,
±2.0EV (0.3EV steps)
available
Electronically controlled vertical-run focal plane shutter
1/4000 - 30 sec. and bulb
Single-frame, Continuous (Hi, Lo), Burst, Self-timer (12s, 2s), Remote control (0s, 3s), Remote control continuous,
auto bracket, extended bracket and Multi-exposure
approx. 3fps, sequence: until 38 frames (JPEG and continuous (Hi)),14 frames (RAW(PEF)),16 frames (RAW(DNG))
approx. 2.3fps, sequence: until the memory card becomes full (JPEG and continuous (Lo)),14 frames (RAW(PEF)),16 frames (RAW(DNG))
approx. 21 fps, sequence: 115 frames (1.6M ★★★ JPEG)
Built-in retractable P-TTL pop-up flash
approx. 13 (Standard Output Sensitivity 100/m)
28mm wide-angle (equivalent to 35mm)
Hot shoe, X-sync socket, sync-speed: 1/180 sec., P-TTL, high-speed-sync, wireless-sync with PENTAX dedicated flash
Date (100_MMDD･･･) / PENTX (100PENTX, 101PENTX･･･) ,
Standard / User customize
Rechargeable D-LI50 lithium-ion battery
Optional AC adapter also available.
approx. 530 *1 (50% use Flash) , approx. 740 *2 (Normal Recording)
approx. 330 minutes *2
USB2.0 (HI-SPEED)/Video , DC input , Cable switch, X-sync socket
PENTAX
PENTAX
* Power zoom function available. K-mount lenses usable with restrictions. S-mount lenses,
67/645 lenses usable with adapter and with restrictions.
approx. 141.5(W) x 101(H) x 70(D)mm (5.6 x 4.0 x 2.76 inches)
approx. 715g (25.2 oz.) without battery and SD memory card.
approx. 800g (28.2 oz.) loaded and ready with battery and SD memory card
bayonet mount
AF2
-,
-, and
AF2
AF
-mount lenses.
A
Ｋ20Ｄ
l
W
Storage capacity
RA
Recorded Pixels
Quality Leve
512MB 34 58 105 205 50 84 148 308 88 142 245 457 230 368 616 1118
1GB
2GB
4GB
8GB 554 955 1717 3319 824 1372 2408 5012 1436 2317 3961 7442 3721 5990 9824 17544
4672 x 3104
PEF DNG★★★★ ★★★ ★★ ★ ★★★★ ★★★ ★★ ★ ★★★★ ★★★ ★★ ★ ★★★★ ★★★ ★★ ★
20
40
82
161
329
68 117 212 411 101 168 296 616 176 285 491 915 461 737 1233 2238
138 239 429 830 206 343 602 1254 359 579 991 1862 931 1499 2458 4390
272 469 843 1630 404 674 1183 2463 705 1138 1946 3657 1828 2943 4827 8620
4672 x 3104
3872 x 2592 3008 x 2000 1824 x 1216
JPEG
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