September 22, 2008
PENTAX AF160FC An auto macro flash designed for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras
HOYA CORPORATION PENTAX Imaging System Division is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX AF160FC dedicated auto macro flash. This new accessory flash unit is particularly designed for advanced close-up applications using the automatic exposure-control system of PENTAX digital SLR cameras.
Main Features (1) Uniform lighting on the subject to minimize disturbing shadow areas, making it ideal for close-up and medical applications; (2) P-TTL auto flash system to constantly assure the proper exposure level, by measuring the flashs pre-discharge with the cameras image sensors and assessing the subjects lighting condition with the cameras multi-pattern metering system; (3) Maximum guide number of 16 (at ISO 100/m); (4) User-friendly operation with a single control dial on the back panel to simply flash-mode changes and discharge-level adjustments; (5) Advanced flash applications, including contrast-control auto flash and independent switching of two flash bulbs.
PENTAX INFORMATION Page. 1

Main Specifications

Guide Number (G.N.): 16 max. (at ISO 100/m) Manual settings: Full, 1/4, 1/16 Discharge Angles: 60 horizontally/vertically Flash Modes: (1) P-TTL (TTL corrective auto flash) (2) TTL (TTL auto flash) (3) M (Manual flash at full, 1/4 and 1/16 discharge levels) Flash range: (1) Film-speed coupling range: ISO 100 to ISO 6400 (in P-TTL and TTL modes) (2) Illumination range: approx. 0.18m to 2.0m (at G.N. 16, ISO 100, F8) Flash exposure compensation: +0.5EV, -0.5EV, -1EV (via control-dial operation) Power sources: (1) 4 AA-size alkaline batteries (2) 4 AA-size lithium batteries (3) 4 AA-size Ni-MH batteries Dimensions: (1) Flash unit: 113mm (diameter) x 29.5mm (depth) (2) Controller unit: 68mm (W) x 83mm (H) x 115mm (D) Weight: Approx. 405g (without batteries)
PENTAX is trademark of HOYA CORPORATION. Design and Specifications is subject to change without notice.
PENTAX INFORMATION Page. 2

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TECHNICAL ACCESSORY TESTS
Pentax AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash kit 450 ####
Pentax has extended its range of ash products with the new AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash kit. This package comes with a macro adapter for Pentax D-FA series macro lenses and adapter rings for 49mm, 52mm, 58mm and 67mm lens lter threads.The lens mounted ash is simply secured into place by pressing then releasing two buttons on its side. It is powered by four AA batteries, which are housed in a unit mounted on a DSLRs hotshoe. It offers very uncomplicated operation as the ash output can be manually adjusted at full, 1/4 and 1/16 power when the camera is also set to a manual exposure mode. However, for the less condent user it also has an Auto Mode for use with a cameras auto picture mode. Once in action, it is intuitive to use and produces accurate exposures for both close-up work and for subject matter like portrait headshots. It features some useful facilities such as a modelling light function that illuminates four white LEDs invaluable when working in low light and trying to get the autofocus to operate. VERDICT: This kit is ideal for the Pentax user wanting to add to their imaging armoury. It is very straightforward to operate and produces a pleasing cast of light, ideal for both creative close-up work and for illustrative use, say in medical photography.

www.pentax.co.uk

Billingham 07 Series 230-270 ####

www.billingham.co.uk

There is something essentially British about the Billingham brand. Its latest offering, the 07 Series Camera bag, certainly appears to have inherited the same distinctive styling of its predecessors. Available in three sizes and two colour combinations, it features a design tweak to the front leather tabs that ensure the bag remains rmly closed.There are also two integral carbon bre wands that help maintain the bags shape and enable easy access once its open.This new series is made out of Billinghams cutting-edge FibreNyte material that still looks like its traditional canvas fabric but offers more durability, lighter weight and an improved waterproong. The interior of the largest bag features padded, moveable dividers so kit is more than adequately protected.Theres enough room for a DSLR and at least three lenses, with space left over for a couple of accessories.The front features two pouches and the back has a zipped compartment. VERDICT: This bag certainly evolves the Billingham product range sensitively. It retains the core values of quality and craftsmanship that will surely satisfy the more discerning customers.
Avenger Super Wind Up ##### www.bogenimaging.co.uk;www.avenger-grip.com
The Super Wind Up 29 is a heavy-duty stand from the Avenger range of products in the Manfrotto portfolio. The rst thing that strikes you about it is the high-quality stainless steel and chrome construction, combined with an utilitarian appearance. It is primarily designed to support bulky lighting products such as large HMIs, but it can also be used with uorescent, tungsten or ash lighting that will slot into the 28mm tting. Weighing a hefty 35kg, its fortunate it can be wheeled around and locked into place by kicking down a brake plate on each wheel. Its wide 130cm diameter footprint means it feels rock solid even when a lamp is hoisted up to its lofty maximum height of around three metres. Adjusting the height of a light is achieved, as the name might suggest, by winding a handle on the side of the stand that enables the geared column to rise. It can also be lowered in the same way without the risk of it slipping down out of control. VERDICT: The Avenger range of products is for photographers who demand highquality products that wont fail them. This example is so well made it is likely to outlive its owner and its solidity ensures both the lamp head and the subject matter are very safe when the light needs to be raised to a lofty height.