Pentax smc PENTAX-DA INTERCHANGEABLE LENS Operating Manual

smc PENTAX-DA
INTERCHANGEABLE LENS

OPERATING MANUAL

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FOREWORD

Thank you for purchasing the smc PENTAX-DA lens.

Please read this operating manual carefully before using the lens to ensure that it is
used properly. In addition, also refer to your camera operating manual.

The smc PENTAX-DA lens can be used exclusively with PENTAX digital SLR
cameras. This lens is not compatible with film SLR cameras.

• In this operating manual, “smc PENTAX-DA lens” is shortened to “DA lens.”

• Illustrations shown herein may differ from the actual appearance.

• PENTAX and smc PENTAX are trademarks of HOYA CORPORATION.

• SDM is a trademark of HOYA CORPORATION.

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USING YOUR LENS SAFELY

Although we have carefully designed these lenses for safe operation, please pay special
attention to items marked with the following symbols when using this product.

WARNING This symbol indicates precautions that if not followed,

could result in serious injuries to the user.

CAUTION This symbol indicates precautions that if not followed,

could result in minor or medium injuries to the user or
damage to the equipment.

WARNING

• Never look at the sun through the lens mounted on the camera for a long time.
Serious damage to your eyes or total loss of eyesight may occur, particularly when
looking directly through the lens.

CAUTION

• Do not leave the lens in direct sunlight without the lens cap. Direct sunlight
passing through the lens will be intensified, and should it focus on flammable
materials, fire may occur.

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PRECAUTIONS AND LENS MAINTENANCE

1. Storage and mildew prevention

• Take the lens out of the protective case or camera bag, and store it in a dry, well-ventilated place.

• Avoid storing the lens in a poorly ventilated location such as a closet, wardrobe, drawer,
vehicle, or where insect repellent or medicine is kept.

• Avoid storing the lens in areas of high temperature and humidity, where there is a risk of mildew
growth. Store the lens with a desiccant in a dry cabinet, airtight container, or plastic bag.
(Leaving a saturated desiccant in the storage container can cause damage to the lens. Be sure
to read the instructions that come with the desiccant before use.)

2. Be careful when handling lenses that are not dust-proof, water-resistant, or do not have simplified

weather-resistant construction in the rain, fog or environments in which sand or dust is in the air.

3. When the lens is not attached to the camera body, attach both the supplied lens cap and lens mount

cap to protect it from dust, etc.

4. Never use any organic solvent such as thinner, alcohol, or benzine, etc. to remove dust on the lens.

5. The lens is a precise optical instrument. Be careful not to let it fall, or subject it to strong shocks or

pressure. Use a cushion or similar pad to protect the lens from the vibrations of motorcycles,
automobiles, boats, etc.

6. Avoid subjecting the lens to rapid changes in temperature, otherwise condensation can occur on

both the inside and the outside of the lens. Put the lens in a plastic bag or camera bag, and take it
out after the lens has reached ambient temperature.

7. Do not leave the camera with the lens cap off attached to a tripod or other rigid camera support. The

inner parts of the camera can be damaged by direct sunlight.

8. Have the lens inspected by a dealer every one or two years to maintain its high performance.

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CONTENTS

FOREWORD

USING YOUR LENS SAFELY ................................................................................. 1

PRECAUTIONS AND LENS MAINTENANCE ........................................................ 2

FEATURES OF THE smc PENTAX-DA LENS ....................................................... 6

About dustproof, water resistance, and simplified weather resistance ................ 7

smc PENTAX-DA LENS .......................................................................................... 8

About the DA lens mount .................................................................................... 9

About lenses with a supersonic motor ............................................................... 10

Precautions for using lenses equipped with a supersonic motor

on the .................................................................................................. 11

MOUNTING AND REMOVING THE LENS ............................................................ 12

LENS CAP ............................................................................................................. 13

Attaching the dedicated lens cap to DA 15mm f/4ED AL Limited ...................... 14

Attaching the dedicated lens cap to DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited ............................. 14

FOCUSING ............................................................................................................. 15

Changing the Focus Mode ................................................................................ 15

For the DA lens .............................................................................................. 15

Using Autofocus ................................................................................................ 16

Using Manual Focus .......................................................................................... 18

Using the Quick-Shift Focus System ................................................................. 18

How to use the Quick-Shift Focus System ........................................................ 19

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DA 200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM, DA 300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM focusing .......... 21

Precautions on close-distance scale ................................................................. 22

ZOOM LENS .......................................................................................................... 23

About the zoom ring .......................................................................................... 24

MACRO LENS ....................................................................................................... 25

Magnification Scale ........................................................................................... 25

ATTACHING THE LENS HOOD ............................................................................ 26

Screw-on Type (DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited dedicated lens hood) ......................... 26

Screw-on Type (DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited dedicated lens hood) ......................... 27

Bayonet Type .................................................................................................... 27

Bayonet Type (DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited dedicated lens hood) ...................... 28

About the PL filter window ................................................................................. 29

Built-in lens hood ............................................................................................... 31

FILTERS ................................................................................................................. 32

Precaution on filters ........................................................................................... 32

Attaching the 30.5mm filter to the DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited lens ......................... 32

Attaching a filter and the dedicated lens hood to the DA 21mm f/3.2

AL Limited lens .................................................................................................. 33

Attaching a filter and the dedicated lens hood to the DA 70mm f/2.4

Limited lens ....................................................................................................... 34

Circular polarizing filters and vignetting ............................................................. 35

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Compatibility table for PENTAX circular polarizing filters .................................. 36

PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING THE LENS WITH A FLASH ............................... 40

Built-in Flash ...................................................................................................... 40

External Flash ................................................................................................... 40

Compatibility of DA Lenses with the Built-in Flash ............................................ 42

TRIPOD MOUNT .................................................................................................... 44

Removing the Tripod Mount .............................................................................. 45

MAIN SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................46

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FEATURES OF THE smc PENTAX-DA LENS

• The smc PENTAX-DA lens is an interchangeable lens specifically designed for digital

cameras. Its image circle is specialized for image sensors in PENTAX digital SLR
cameras and its optical system is optimized for the characteristics of digital images.

• When autofocusing is finished, it is possible to make fine adjustment by hand using the

“Quick-Shift Focus System” (see page 19 for details).

• Lenses that have “SDM” in their name are equipped with a supersonic motor. When

mounted on a camera that supports supersonic motors, the autofocus is quiet and
smooth.

• The DA



55mm f/1.4 SDM uses a circular aperture. Using it when stopping down from

full aperture to about f/2.8 keeps light sources and other fuzzy points perfectly round.

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About dustproof, water resistance, and simplified weather resistance

• Dust-proof and water-resistant lenses

DA



55mm f/1.4 SDM, DA 300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM, DA 200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM,

DA



16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM, DA 50-135mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM, DA 60-250mm
f/4ED [IF]SDM
These DA



lenses are dust-proof and water-resistant because each part is individually

sealed. This makes it difficult for dust and water to enter the lens.

• Lenses with simplified weather-resistant construction

DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL WR, DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED WR
These lenses are made with a simplified weather-resistant construction by using DA



lens sealing technology which makes it difficult for water to enter the lens.

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smc PENTAX-DA LENS

Note:

• The DA lens does not have an aperture ring. Aperture settings are controlled
automatically as if set to the auto “A” position, so accessories without an auto
“A” setting cannot be used with this lens.

• The DA lens is not compatible with film SLR cameras.

Focusing ring

Distance scale
window

Depth-of-field scale

Mounting index

Lens hood
attaching index

Distance scale

Depth-of-field scale

Distance index

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About the DA lens mount

The DA lens is an interchangeable lens specifically designed for PENTAX digital SLR cameras.
There are three mounts for the DA lens, the K

AF, KAF2 and KAF3.

Refer to the next page for more information on lenses with a supersonic motor.

K

AF-mount KAF2-mount KAF3-mount

Lenses with a supersonic motor

Lenses with a supersonic motor
(supersonic motor only)

CAUTION

Be careful not to damage or dirty the lens mount surfaces as this can result in failure
or malfunction.

AF coupler

Lens information
contacts

Power supply contacts

Lens information
contacts

AF coupler

Power supply contacts

Lens information
contacts

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About lenses with a supersonic motor

The lenses in the table below are equipped with an internal supersonic motor. When
mounted on a camera body that supports supersonic motors, the autofocus (AF) works
quietly and smoothly.

• Supersonic motor compatible camera body
K-series (excluding and )

If the firmware is version 1.30 or later, it supports supersonic motor. (Refer to page 11)

* In both cases focusing can be done manually.

Lens Precautions

DA



55mm f/1.4 SDM

DA17-70mm f/4 AL [IF] SDM

• The lens uses a supersonic motor. When the lens
is mounted on a camera body that does not
support supersonic motors (including the
with firmware older than version 1.30), the
autofocus cannot be operated by either the AF
motor in the camera body or the supersonic motor.

•

If using the lens with the following cameras, and
the power is turned on, MF appears in the monitor,
but it does not interfere with AF operations.

, , ,

DA



60-250mm f/4ED [IF] SDM
DA 16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM
DA



50-135mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM
DA 200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM
DA



300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM

When the lens is mounted on a camera body that
does not support supersonic motors (including the

with firmware older than version 1.30), the
autofocus is operated by the AF motor in the
camera body.

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Precautions for using lenses equipped with a supersonic motor on the

When using lenses equipped with a supersonic motor on the , use camera
firmware version 1.30 or later.

• How to Check and Update the Firmware

Turn on the while holding down the MENU button to display the firmware
version in the center of the display.

Download and install the updated firmware for the using the link below.

• Firmware Download Page:

http://www.pentax.jp/english/support/download_digital.html

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MOUNTING AND REMOVING THE LENS

1. To mount the lens on the camera body

Attach the lens while aligning the red dots on the lens and body, then turn the lens
clockwise until it clicks in place.

"Memo:

• Do not hold down the lens unlock button while mounting the lens, otherwise the lens
will not be properly mounted.

• After mounting the lens, gently turn the lens counterclockwise to make sure it is
locked in place.

2. To remove the lens

Hold down the lens unlock button on the camera body and turn the lens
counterclockwise.

1

2

Mounting index

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LENS CAP

Take off the lens cap by pressing the two tabs inward.

"Memo:

• When not using the lens, be sure to attach the lens cap.

• Attach the dedicated lens cap over the lens hood on the DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited,
DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited, DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5ED [IF], and DA
70mm f/2.4 Limited. Also, with the DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited, DA 40mm f/2.8
Limited, and DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited, it is possible to mount the F49mm lens cap
(option) by removing the lens hood.

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Attaching the dedicated lens cap to DA 15mm f/4ED AL Limited

Screw the lens cap to the front of the lens.

Attaching the dedicated lens cap to DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited

First screw the dedicated hood onto the front of the lens, then screw the lens cap onto the lens hood.

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FOCUSING

Changing the Focus Mode

Use the camera’s focus mode switch to change between autofocus mode and manual
focus mode. For details, refer to your camera operating manual.

For the DA lens

The focus mode switch on the DA lens is used to
change between the autofocus and manual focus modes
(the focus mode switch on the camera is always set to
autofocus).
To use the autofocus, set the switch to the AF position.
To use the manual focus, set the switch to the MF
position.

Focus mode

switch

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Using Autofocus

Set the focus mode to autofocus. Press the shutter release button halfway to autofocus.
See page 15 for information about changing the focus mode.

"Memo:

• Depending on your camera model, you can focus by operating buttons on the camera
body. For details on how to set and use available functions of the buttons, refer to
your camera operating manual.

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CAUTION

During autofocusing, the focusing ring of the following lenses will rotate.

• To prevent malfunction, do not touch the focusing ring during autofocusing.
Particularly be careful when the Focus Mode is set to AF.C (Continuous mode).
The camera continues adjusting the focus while the AF button is pressed or the
shutter release button is pressed halfway.

- DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5ED [IF] - DA 12-24mm f/4ED AL [IF]

- DA 16-45mm f/4ED AL - DA 17-70mm f/4 AL [IF] SDM

- DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL WR - DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL

- DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED WR - DA L 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED

- DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8ED - DA 15mm f/4ED AL Limited

- DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited - DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited

- DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited - DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited

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Using Manual Focus

Set the focus mode to MF, and turn the focusing ring to focus manually.
See page 15 for information about changing the focus mode.

Using the Quick-Shift Focus System

If the focus mode is set to autofocus, you can focus manually after autofocus is achieved.
Manually turn the focusing ring to finely adjust the focus. You can do this without changing
the focus mode to MF.

The Quick Shift Focus System is not available with the following lenses.

- DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL - DA L 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED

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How to use the Quick-Shift Focus System

1. Using Autofocus

Set the focus mode switch to autofocus, then press the shutter release button halfway
to autofocus.
* Depending on your camera model, you can focus by operating buttons on the camera

body. For details on how to set and use available functions of the buttons, refer to your
camera operating manual.

2. Hold down the shutter release button halfway, then turn the focusing ring to finely
adjust focus.

3. Finally, press the shutter release button fully to take a picture.

The focusing ring on some lenses may rotate during autofocus.

• Do not touch the focusing ring while autofocus is operating as it may cause a
malfunction. For more information see the “CAUTION” on page 17.

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CAUTION

• When using the Quick-Shift Focus System, keep pressing the shutter release button
after you achieve focus and before taking a picture. If you let go of the shutter release
button before taking a picture, autofocus will operate again when you press the
shutter release button again.
However, by configuring the camera's custom settings, you can take pictures without
autofocusing after letting go of the shutter release button. See the camera operating
manual for details about the setting procedure.

• When focusing with manual focus or the Quick-Shift Focus System, the mechanism
allows the focusing ring to rotate freely after it is set to the ∞ (infinity) or the minimum
focus distance ends. However do not attempt to rotate it any farther than these ends
as this will result in decreased performance.

- DA 14mm f/2.8ED [IF] - DA 55mm f/1.4 SDM

- DA 200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM - DA 300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM

- DA 16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM - DA 50-135mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM

- DA 60-250mm f/4ED [IF] SDM

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DA 200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM, DA 300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM focusing

• The mechanism does not allow the angle of rotation of the focusing ring to have the
same angle of the distance scale while focusing. Always check the focus using the view
finder before taking a picture. This is especially true with manual focus and the Quick­Shift Focus System.

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Precautions on close-distance scale
(For DA 16-45mm f/4ED AL, DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL WR, DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-

5.6 AL)

In the close-distance scale range (minimum focus distance range), when shooting at the
maximum aperture, image quality in the corners of the picture may deteriorate because of
the optical characteristics of the lens.
When taking a picture in this range, we recommend that you use a smaller aperture,
stopping down from full aperture.

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ZOOM LENS

Focusing ring

Distance scale

Mounting index

Lens hood attaching
index

Zoom ring

Focal length scale

Zoom index

Focusing index

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The zoom lens has a focusing ring on the front side and a zoom ring on the rear side.
Turn the zoom ring to set the desired angle of view (lens focal length).

"Memo:

• The focusing point may shift slightly by changing the focal length. First adjust the
zoom and then adjust the focus.

• The focusing index on the zoom lens is set to match the focus point when the focal
length is at telephoto. The focusing index may not match the focus point for other
focal lengths.

About the zoom ring

Turn the zoom ring clockwise for telephoto and counterclockwise for wide-angle.

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MACRO LENS

With a DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited lens, you can adjust focus from infinity to life-size [1x].

Magnification Scale

The magnification is indicated by denominators on the distance scale. “5” indicates “1/5x”.
When determining the magnification first, set the magnification in the manual focus mode
and adjust focus by moving the camera closer or further from the subject.

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ATTACHING THE LENS HOOD

In order to avoid deterioration in image quality from internal reflection of light, use of a lens
hood is recommended.

a. Screw-on Type (DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited dedicated lens hood)

Screw the hood on to the front of the lens to attach it.
The hood is telescopic. Extend it fully to use it.

"Memo:

The lens hood cannot be mounted on some circular polarizing filters that are not
produced by PENTAX.

a

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b. Screw-on Type (DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited dedicated lens hood)

Screw the hood on to the front of the lens to attach it.

c. Bayonet Type

When attaching the lens hood, align the index on the lens hood with the attaching index
on the lens, and push both parts straight toward each other. Attach the lens hood on the
lens by turning the hood in the clockwise direction, as viewed from the front of the lens,
to lock it until it clicks into position.

"Memo:

• When attaching the lens hood, hold the focusing ring and zoom ring securely to
prevent them from turning.

• When the lens hood is not in use, it can also be turned around and attached in the
reversed position.

b

c

Lens hood
attaching
index

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d. Bayonet Type (DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited dedicated lens hood)

When attaching the lens hood, align the index on the lens hood with the attaching index
on the lens, and push both parts straight toward each other. Attach the lens hood on the
lens by turning the hood in a clockwise direction, as seen from the front of the lens, until
it stops.

"Memo:

• Vignetting occurs if the camera is used while the hood is not completely attached.

• The dedicated lens hood cannot be attached if a filter is attached to the front of the
lens. To use a filter and the dedicated lens hood together, attach a 43mm diameter
filter to the back of the hood. (Refer to page 33)

d

Lens hood
attaching
index

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About the PL filter window

The bayonet-type hood included with the lenses below has a PL filter window which
facilitates the manipulation of the circular polarizing filter.

- DA 55mm f/1.4 SDM - DA 16-45mm f/4ED AL

- DA 16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM - DA 17-70mm f/4AL [IF] SDM

- DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL WR - DA 50-135mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM

- DA 60-250mm f/4ED [IF] SDM - DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED WR

- DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8ED - DA 200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM

- DA 300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM

CAUTION

The PL filter window cap of the DA 55mm f/1.4 SDM cannot be attached or removed
with the hood attached to the lens. Remove the hood from the lens to attach first, and
then remove the window cap.

1

2

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How to use the lens hood with polarizing filter window

1. Remove the PL filter window cap by sliding it in the direction as shown in the illustration

1.

2. Turn the outer rim of the circular polarizing filter from the PL filter window as shown in

the illustration 2.

3. Attach the PL filter window cap.

"Memo:

• When shooting, be sure the PL filter window cap is in place to achieve maximum
effect of the lens hood.

3

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Built-in lens hood

The following lenses have a lens hood built into the lens body. The hood cannot be
removed from the lens.

• DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5ED [IF]

• DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited (*), DA 15mm f/4ED AL Limited (*)
Lenses marked with an * have a built-in sliding hood which should be extended.

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FILTERS

Make sure the filter size matches the lens, then screw the filter onto the front of the lens.

"Memo:

• The compatible filter size for each lens is listed on pages 46-52.

• Filters cannot be mounted on the DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5ED [IF].

Precaution on filters

• Since a filter becomes a part of the optical system when attached to the lens, handle it
with due care to protect it from dust, dirt and scratches. Normally, attaching two or more
filters on a lens does more harm than good. However, attaching a circular polarizing filter
and another filter is not a problem.

• When using a polarizing filter with a camera, use a circular polarizing filter for proper
exposure and autofocus.

Attaching the 30.5mm filter to the DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited lens

Normally, you attach the 49mm filter to the front of the lens. But you can also screw a

30.5mm filter to the back of the dedicated hood.

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Attaching a filter and the dedicated lens hood to the DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited
lens

It is possible to attach a 49mm diameter filter to the front of the DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited
lens, but not when the dedicated lens hood is attached. To use a filter with the dedicated
lens hood, screw a 43mm diameter filter to the back of the filter.

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Attaching a filter and the dedicated lens hood to the DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited lens

With the DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited lens, attach the 49mm diameter filter to the front of the
lens. To use it together with the dedicated lens hood, screw it on over the filter that is
attached.

"Memo:

• The lens hood cannot be mounted on some circular polarizing filters that are not
produced by PENTAX.

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Circular polarizing filters and vignetting

Circular polarizing filters are thicker than regular filters. Depending on the lens that is
mounted and the shooting conditions, vignetting may occur in the four corners of the image.
Refer to the “Compatibility table for PENTAX circular polarizing filters” on the following page
for information on compatibility of PENTAX circular polarizing filters (currently not in
production) with various lenses. There are two types of PENTAX circular polarizing filters.
The A type (on the left in the diagram below) and the B type (on the right in the diagram
below). The B type filter is thinner than the A type filter.

A type B type

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Compatibility table for PENTAX circular polarizing filters

* PENTAX circular polarizing filters are currently not produced.
YES: Compatible *YES: Compatible in some conditions NO: Incompatible

Lens

Circular polarizing filter (A type)

Circular polarizing filter

(B type)

Compatibility

Notes

Compatibility

Notes
DA 14mm f/2.8ED [IF] NO Vignetting occurs. YES
DA 15mm f/4ED AL Limited NO Vignetting occurs. YES

DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited*

3

YES

Use a filter with a
diameter of 49mm.

YES

Use a filter with a
diameter of 49mm.

DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited *YES

*Can be mounted and
used. However, the built­in lens hood cannot be
withdrawn while the A
type circular polarizing
filter is attached.

YES

DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited*

1

YES

Use a filter with a
diameter of 49mm.

YES

Use a filter with a
diameter of 49mm.

DA



55mm f/1.4 SDM*

1

YES YES

DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited*

1

YES YES

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DA 200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM

*YES

*Can be mounted and
used. However, the
dedicated bayonet hood
cannot be mounted on top
of the A type circular
polarizing filter.

YES

DA



300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM

DA 12-24mm f/4ED AL [IF]*

2

*YES

*Vignetting occurs at focal
lengths below 15mm.

*YES

*Vignetting occurs
at focal lengths
below 15mm.

DA



16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF]

SDM

NO Vignetting occurs. YES

DA



50-135mm f/2.8ED [IF]

SDM

YES YES

DA 16-45mm f/4ED AL *YES

*Can be mounted and
used. However, the
dedicated bayonet hood
cannot be mounted on top
of the A type circular
polarizing filter.

YES

DA 17-70mm f/4 AL [IF] SDM NO *YES

Vignetting occurs
when the focal
length is 17mm.

Lens

Circular polarizing filter (A type)

Circular polarizing filter

(B type)

Compatibility

Notes

Compatibility

Notes

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 37 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

38

DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL

*YES

*Can be mounted and
used. However, the
dedicated bayonet hood
cannot be mounted on top
of the A type circular
polarizing filter.

YES

DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL WR

DA L 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED

DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED WR

DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8ED

DA



60-250mm f/4ED [IF]

SDM

YES YES

Lens

Circular polarizing filter (A type)

Circular polarizing filter

(B type)

Compatibility

Notes

Compatibility

Notes

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 38 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

39

*1 The lens hood cannot be mounted on some circular polarizing filters that are not produced by

PENTAX.

*2 Vignetting occurs at focal lengths below 15mm with other PENTAX filters (such as the

Skylight) besides circular polarizing filters.

*3 The dedicated hood cannot be mounted if a filter including a circular polarizing filter is

mounted on the front of the lens.

"Memo:

• Filters, including circular polarizing filters, cannot be mounted on the DA FISH-EYE
10-17mm f/3.5-4.5ED [IF] lens.

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 39 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

40

PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING THE LENS WITH A FLASH

Built-in Flash

The built-in flash can not be used when the distance is less than 0.7m. When the flash is
used within 0.7m, it causes incorrect exposure control and vignetting in the picture corners.

• Refer to the “Compatibility of DA Lenses with the Built-in Flash” chart on page 42 for
information on the compatibility of the built-in flash with the lens being used.

External Flash

The external flash can be used while the lens hood is attached. However, the following
conditions apply to some types of lenses.

zDA 14mm f/2.8ED [IF]
zDA 15mm f/4ED AL Limited

The AF540FGZ and AF360FGZ external flash units can only be used when the wide-angle
panel is used (it is also possible to use the lens hood). Other external flash units are not
recommended because their coverage angle is not compatible with the angle of view of the
lens.

zDA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited

External flash units can be used while the lens hood is mounted without problems if it is
possible to set their zoom [coverage angle] up to 28mm.

zDA FISH-EYE 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5ED [IF]

External flash units cannot be used because their coverage angle is not compatible with the
angle of view of the lens.

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 40 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

41

zDA 12-24mm f/4ED AL [IF]

PENTAX external flash units which cover a 24mm lens on a 35mm SLR, or 16mm lens on a
digital SLR, can be used when the lens is set from 16mm to 24mm.
AF540FGZ and AF360FGZ can be used from 13mm to 24mm with the wide angle panel (in
both cases, it is possible to use the lens hood). Please note that at focal lengths less than
13mm the corners of the picture will not be fully illuminated.
Other external flash units are not recommended, because their coverage angle is not wide
enough to cover the angle of view of the lens.

zDA 16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM
zDA 16-45mm f/4ED AL

PENTAX external flash units which cover a 24mm lens on a 35mm SLR, or 16mm lens on a
digital SLR, can be used with the lens hood without problems.

* For more information, refer to the manual for the external flash unit.

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 41 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

42

Compatibility of DA Lenses with the Built-in Flash

Lens

Compatibility

,
,

K-series

DA 14mm f/2.8ED [IF] NO NO NO
DA 15mm f/4ED AL Limited NO NO NO
DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited YES YES YES
DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited YES YES YES
DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited YES YES YES
DA



55mm f/1.4 SDM YES YES YES
DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited YES YES YES
DA



200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM YES YES YES
DA



300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM YES YES YES
DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5ED [IF] NO NO NO
DA 12-24mm f/4ED AL [IF] NO NO NO
DA



16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM YES*1 YES*2 YES*3
DA 16-45mm f/4ED AL YES*4 YES*4 YES*4
DA 17-70mm f/4 AL [IF] SDM YES*5 YES*6 YES*7
DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL YES YES YES
DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL WR YES YES YES
DA



50-135mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM YES YES YES
DA L 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED YES YES YES

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43

Except for the DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited, DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited, DA 40mm f/2.8
Limited and DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited lenses, do not use the lens hood when using the
built-in flash. This is to prevent the lens hood from obstructing the flash.
*1 Vignetting occurs when the focal length is 35mm or less, or when the focal length is 16 to

50mm and the shooting distance is below 1.5 m.

*2 Vignetting occurs when the focal length is 28mm or less, or when the focal length is 16 to

50mm and the shooting distance is below 1.5 m.

*3 Vignetting occurs when the focal length is 20mm or less, or when the focal length is

35mm and the shooting distance is below 1.5 m.

*4 Vignetting occurs when the focal length is below 28mm, or when the focal length is

28mm and the shooting distance is 1 m or less.

*5 Vignetting occurs when the focal length is below 35mm, or when the focal length is

35mm and the shooting distance is 1 m or less.
*6 Vignetting occurs when the focal length is below 35mm.
*7 Vignetting occurs when the focal length is below 24mm, or when the focal length is

24mm and the shooting distance is 1 m or less.

DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED WR YES YES YES
DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8ED YES YES YES
DA



60-250mm f/4ED [IF] SDM YES YES YES

Lens

Compatibility

,
,

K-series

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 43 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

44

TRIPOD MOUNT

DA 60-250mm f/4ED [IF] SDM and DA 300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM are equipped with the
tripod mount. To position the camera vertically or horizontally, loosen the camera position
shift lock screw, turn the camera 90° to the right or left as desired, and tighten the lock
screw firmly.
The tripod mount is detachable.

• Attach only to a stable tripod.

• We recommend using a fast shutter speed as large lenses may contribute to camera

shake.

Camera position shift lock screw

Tripod Mount

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 44 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

45

Removing the Tripod Mount

To remove the mount, use a coin to
loosen the screw by turning it to the left.
Be careful not to loosen the screw too
much or else it may fall out.

Insert a coin into the slot on the screw
and turn to the left.

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 45 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

46

MAIN SPECIFICATIONS

* For use with any PENTAX digital SLR camera.
* AL = Uses an aspheric lens, ED = Lens made with extra-low dispersion glass, IF = Inner

focus-type lens, SDM = Lens with a supersonic motor

Lens DA 14mm f/2.8ED [IF]

DA 15mm f/4ED AL Limited

DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited

Focal length

14mm (equivalent to approx.

21.5mm in 35mm format)

15mm (equivalent to approx.
23mm in 35mm format)

21mm (equivalent to approx.
32mm in 35mm format)

Elements in groups

12-11 8-6 8-5
Angle of view 90° 86° 68°
Aperture f/2.8 f/4 f/3.2
Minimum aperture

f/22 f/22 f/22
Mount type KAF-mount KAF-mount KAF-mount
Minimum focus

distance

0.17m (0.56ft) 0.18m (0.59ft) 0.2m (0.66ft)

Maximum
magnification

Approx. 0.19× Approx. 0.15× Approx. 0.17×

Filter size 77mm 49mm 49mm or 43mm
Lens hood PH-RBH 77mm Built-in MH-RBA 43mm
Max. diameter ×

length

83.5mm × 69mm (3.3in ×

2.7in)

63mm × 39.5mm (2.5in ×

1.6in)

63mm × 25mm (2.5in ×

1.0in)

Weight

Approx. 420g/14.8oz

(with hood approx. 455g/

16.0oz)

Approx. 190g/6.7oz

Approx. 140g/4.9oz (with
hood approx. 155g/5.5oz)

Soft case S100-120 Soft case DA70 Dedicated case

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 46 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

47

Lens

DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro

Limited

DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited DA 55mm f/1.4 SDM

Focal length

35mm (equivalent to

approx. 53.5mm in 35mm

format)

40mm (equivalent to
approx. 61mm in 35mm
format)

55mm (equivalent to
approx. 84.5mm in 35mm
format)

Elements in groups

9-8 5-4 9-8
Angle of view 44° 39° 29°
Aperture f/2.8 f/2.8 f/1.4
Minimum aperture

f/22 f/22 f/22
Mount type KAF-mount KAF-mount KAF3-mount
Minimum focus

distance

0.139m (0.46ft) 0.4m (1.31ft) 0.45m (1.48ft)

Maximum
magnification

Approx. 1.00× Approx. 0.13× Approx. 0.17×

Filter size 49mm 49mm or 30.5mm 58mm
Lens hood Built-in MH-RC 49mm PH-RBH 58mm
Max. diameter ×

length

63mm × 46.5mm (2.5in ×

1.8in)

63mm × 15mm (2.5in ×

0.6in)

70.5mm × 66mm (2.8in ×

2.6in)

Weight Approx. 215g/7.6oz

Approx. 90g/3.2oz (with
hood approx. 100g/3.5oz)

Approx. 375g/13.2oz
(with hood approx. 420g/

14.8oz)

Soft case Soft case DA70 Dedicated case S90-100

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 47 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

48

Lens DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited DA

200mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM DA

300mm f/4ED [IF] SDM

Focal length

70mm (equivalent to

approx. 107mm in 35mm

format)

200mm (equivalent to
approx. 307mm in 35mm
format)

300mm (equivalent to
approx. 460mm in 35mm
format)

Elements in groups

6-5 9-8 8-6
Angle of view 23° 8.1° 5.4°
Aperture f/2.4 f/2.8 f/4
Minimum aperture

f/22 f/22 f/32
Mount type KAF-mount KAF2-mount KAF2-mount
Minimum focus

distance

0.7m (2.3ft) 1.2m (4ft) 1.4m (4.67ft)

Maximum
magnification

Approx. 0.12× Approx. 0.20× Approx. 0.24×

Filter size 49mm 77mm 77mm
Lens hood MH-RD 49mm PH-RBK 77mm PH-RBK 77mm
Max. diameter ×

length

63mm × 26mm (2.5in ×

1.0in)

83mm × 134mm (3.3in ×

5.3in)

83mm × 184mm (3.3in ×

7.2in)

Weight

Approx. 130g/4.6oz (with

hood approx. 150g/5.3oz)

Approx. 825g/29.1oz
(with hood approx. 915g/

32.3oz)

Approx. 1070g/37.7oz
(with hood approx. 1160g/

40.9oz) (with hood +
tripod attachment approx.
1240g/43.7oz)

Soft case Soft case DA70 S120-160 S120-210

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 48 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

49

Lens

DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5ED [IF]

DA 12-24mm f/4ED AL [IF] DA 16-45mm f/4ED AL

Focal length

10-17mm

(35mm conversion

not possible)

12-24mm (equivalent to
approx. 18.5-37mm in
35mm format)

16-45mm (equivalent to
approx. 24.5-69mm in
35mm format)

Elements in groups

10-8 13-11 13-10
Angle of view 180°–100° 99°–61° 83°–35°
Aperture f/3.5–f/4.5 f/4 f/4
Minimum aperture

f/22–f/32 f/22 f/22
Mount type KAF-mount KAF-mount KAF-mount

Minimum focus
distance

0.14m (0.46ft)

(Approximately 2.5cm

from front of lens)

0.3m (0.98ft) 0.28m (0.92ft)

Maximum
magnification

Approx. 0.39× Approx. 0.12× Approx. 0.26×

Filter size Cannot be mounted 77mm 67mm
Lens hood Built-in PH-RBI 77mm PH-RBL 67mm
Max. diameter ×

length

68mm × 71.5mm (2.7in ×

2.8in)

84mm × 87.5mm (3.3in ×

3.4in)

72mm × 92mm (2.8in ×

3.6in)

Weight Approx. 320g/11.3oz

Approx. 430g/15.2oz
(with hood approx. 457g/

16.1oz)

Approx. 365g/12.9oz
(with hood approx. 390g/

13.8oz)

Soft case S80-80 S100-120 S90-140

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 49 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

50

Lens

DA 16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM

DA 17-70mm f/4 AL [IF] SDM

DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL

Focal length

16-50mm (equivalent to

approx. 24.5-76.5mm in

35mm format)

17-70mm (equivalent to
approx. 26-107mm in
35mm format)

18-55mm (equivalent to
approx. 27.5-84.5mm in
35mm format)

Elements in groups

15-12 17-12 11-8
Angle of view 83°–31.5° 79°-23° 76°-29°
Aperture f/2.8 f/4 f/3.5-5.6
Minimum aperture

f/22 f/22 f/22-38
Mount type KAF2-mount KAF3-mount KAF-mount
Minimum focus

distance

0.3m (0.98ft) 0.28m (0.92ft) 0.25m (0.82ft)

Maximum
magnification

Approx. 0.21× Approx. 0.31× Approx. 0.34×

Filter size 77mm 67mm 52mm

Lens hood PH-RBJ 77mm PH-RBM 67mm

PH-RBA 52mm (sold
separately)

Max. diameter ×
length

84mm × 98.5mm (3.3in ×

3.9in)

75mm × 93.5mm (3.0in ×

3.7in)

68mm × 67.5mm (2.7in ×

2.7in)

Weight

Approx. 565g/19.9oz

(with hood approx. 600g/

21.2oz)

Approx. 485g/17.1oz
(with hood approx. 515g/

18.2oz)

Approx. 200g/7.1oz (with
hood approx. 225g/7.9oz)

Soft case S100-140 S90-140 S80-120

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 50 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

51

Lens

DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL WR

DA 50-135mm f/2.8ED [IF] SDM

DA L 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED

Focal length

18-55mm (equivalent to

approx. 27.5-84.5mm in

35mm format)

50-135mm (equivalent to
approx. 76.5-207mm in
35mm format)

50-200mm (equivalent to
approx. 76.5-307mm in
35mm format)

Elements in groups

11-8 18-14 11-10
Angle of view 76°–29° 31.5°–11.9° 31.5°-8.1°
Aperture f/3.5–f/5.6 f/2.8 f/4-5.6
Minimum aperture

f/22–f/38 f/22 f/22-32
Mount type KAF-mount KAF2-mount KAF-mount
Minimum focus

distance

0.25m (0.82ft) 1.0m (3.3ft) 1.1m (3.6ft)

Maximum
magnification

Approx. 0.34× Approx. 0.17× Approx. 0.24×

Filter size 52mm 67mm 52mm

Lens hood PH-RBC 52mm PH-RBK 67mm

PH-RBB 52mm (sold
separately)

Max. diameter ×
length

68.5mm × 67.5mm (2.7in

× 2.7in)

76.5mm × 136mm (3.0in
× 5.4in)

66.5mm × 78.5mm (2.6in
× 3.1in)

Weight

Approx. 235g/8.3oz (with

hood

approx.

260g/9.2oz)

Approx. 685g/24.2oz
(with hood approx. 765g/

27.0oz)

Approx. 235g/8.3oz (with
hood approx. 265g/9.3oz)

Soft case S80-120 S90-160 S80-120

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 51 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

52

Lens

DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6ED WR

DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8ED

DA 60-250mm f/4ED [IF] SDM

Focal length

50-200mm (equivalent to

approx. 76.5-307mm in

35mm format)

55-300mm (equivalent to
approx. 84.5-460mm in
35mm format)

60-250mm (equivalent to
approx. 92-383mm in
35mm format)

Elements in groups

11-10 12-8 15-13
Angle of view 31.5°–8.1° 29°–5.4° 26.5°-6.5°
Aperture f/4–f/5.6 f/4–f/5.8 f/4
Minimum aperture

f/22–f/32 f/22–f/32 f/32
Mount type KAF-mount KAF-mount KAF2-mount
Minimum focus

distance

1.1m (3.6ft) 1.4m (4.67ft) 1.1m (3.6ft)

Maximum
magnification

Approx. 0.24× Approx. 0.28× Approx. 0.15×

Filter size 49mm 58mm 67mm
Lens hood PH-RBD 49mm PH-RBG 58mm PH-RBK 67mm
Max. diameter ×

length

69mm × 79.5mm (2.7in ×

3.1in)

71mm × 111.5mm (2.8in ×

4.4in)

82mm × 167.5mm (3.2in
× 6.6in)

Weight

Approx. 285g/10.1oz

(with hood approx. 320g/

11.3oz )

Approx. 440g/15.5oz
(with hood approx. 470g/

16.6oz)

Approx. 1,050g/37.0oz
(with hood approx.
1,130g/39.9oz) (with hood
+ tripod attachment
approx. 1,240g/43.7oz)

Soft case S80-120 S80-160 S100-200

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 52 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

53

For customers in USA

For customers in Canada

STATEMENT OF FCC COMPLIANCE

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions : (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
*Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 53 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM

✩Specifications and external dimensions are subject to change without notice.

Copyright © HOYA CORPORATION 2010

AP070101/ENG FOM 01.12.2010 Printed in Europe

The CE Mark is a Directive conformity mark of the European Union.

HOYA CORPORATION
PENTAX Imaging Systems Division

2-36-9, Maeno-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 174-8639, JAPAN) (http://www.pentax.jp)

PENTAX Imaging Systems GmbH

Julius-Vosseler-Strasse, 104, 22527 Hamburg, GERMANY (http://www.pentax.de )

(European Headquarters) (Germany - http://www.pentax.de) Hotline: [phone] / 0180 5 PENTAX

Austria Hotline: [phone] (http://www.pentax.at)

PENTAX Imaging Systems Limited

PENTAX House, Heron Drive, Langley, Slough, Berks SL3 8PN, U.K. (http://www.pentax.co.uk)

PENTAX Europe Imaging Systems S.A.S.

112 Quai de Bezons - BP 204, 95106 Argenteuil Cedex, FRANCE
(HQ - http://www.pentaxeurope.com) (France - http://www.pentax.fr )

PENTAX Imaging Company
A Division of PENTAX of America, Inc.

(Headquarters)
600 12th Street, Suite 300 Golden, Colorado 80401, U.S.A.
(PENTAX Service Department)
250 North 54th Street Chandler, AZ 85226, U.S.A.
(http://www.pentaximaging.com)

PENTAX Canada Inc. 1770 Argentia Road Mississauga, Ontario L5N 3S7, CANADA (http://www.pentax.ca)
PENTAX Trading (SHANGHAI) Limited

23D, Jun Yao International Plaza, 789 Zhaojiabang Road, Xu Hui District, Shanghai, 200032 CHINA
(http://www.pentax.com.cn)

DA Lens_ENG.book Page 54 Monday, January 3, 2011 11:45 AM