Golden, Colorado (May 10, 2005)…PENTAX Imaging Company has announced three new digital camera additions to its popular Optio digital camera lines. The PENTAX Optio S5z, the Optio S55 and the Optio S45 as well as the manufacturer’s sixth DA lens will ship to dealers in June 2005.

The PENTAX Optio S5z is the fifth iteration in the most popular compact and lightweight PENTAX digital camera series. Like its predecessors, the Optio S5z is loaded with features and boasts a 2.5 inch monitor to optimize image composition and playback. With a 3X optical zoom and the power of 5.0 effective megapixels, the Optio S5z features an aluminum alloy exterior and a rounded corner design and rubber grip. Measuring just 3.3 x 2.2 x 0.8 inches and weighing only 3.7 ounces (without battery), the small size of the Optio S5z is made possible through the innovative PENTAX Sliding Lens system that moves the powerful lens up and away as it retracts into the camera.

“This S series of Optio digital cameras that are as small as an Altoids® tin continues to be one of our most popular digital cameras,” said Ned Bunnell, director of marketing, PENTAX Imaging Company. “Stylish, compact and full-featured, this series is the benchmark for the go everywhere digital user.” The PENTAX Optio S5z will be available for under $350 US.

Two more PENTAX digital cameras have been announced that follow in the no experience required tradition that makes digital a little less daunting for newcomers. The PENTAX Optio S55 delivers powerful 5.0 megapixel resolution, a 3X optical zoom and a 2.5 inch LCD monitor. Easy to understand and use, the Optio S55 features a Help mode that displays function explanations to reduce operating manual dependency. The Optio S55 will be available for under $300 US.

The third PENTAX digital is the Optio S45, a compact digital camera featuring 4.0 megapixels, a 3X optical zoom and a large 2.5 inch LCD monitor. With the large monitor that simplifies composition and playback, the Optio S45 is well suited to any user. The Optio S45 will be available in limited distribution for under $230 US.

PENTAX also will ship the latest compact, lightweight 4X telephoto zoom DA lens for use with digital SLR cameras. First announced at the Photo Manufacturers Association (PMA) trade show in February 2005, the smc PENTAX-DA 50mm-200mm F4-F5.6 ED is developed for exclusive use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras for both mid-range telephoto applications and serious long-range applications. Mounted on the PENTAX *ist D or PENTAX *ist DS, this lens offers focal lengths equivalent from 76.5mm to 306mm (in the 35mm format). This wide coverage is ideal for a variety of telephoto applications, including portraiture, sports and scenery. The lens will be available at $300 US.

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, scopes, eyepieces, binoculars, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With corporate headquarters located in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX of America, Inc. For more information: www.pentaximaging.com

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