K-x Has it a remote shutter release.?

[boxcam78]

I am at present a K10D user but I am contemplating a swop to the K-x as it is smaller, less weight and has video.  However I am a bit concerned as to whether it has a socket to accept a remote cable shutter release.     I need this facility as I often tripod mount and manual focus to capture bird shots.  The review on DPreview seems to imply that there is only one socket which is USB/video.     Can anyone tell me if it also has a 2.5mm cable socket for a remote cable release.?

[Mike Pearson]

From checking through all the specifications on the Pentax sites it does not have the remote socket and you would have to use the Remote Control F.

Maybe someone on the forum who has a Kx can confirm. 

Mike

[boxcam78]

Thanks Mike.   So it seems I am correct in thniking there is no cable socket.    What exactly is this 'Remote Conmtrol F', does it allow one to fire the shutter remotely.?   How exactly does it work.?

[Mike Pearson]

I have the Pentax Remote Control F which came with my Pentax MZ6 film camera and is still listed as an accessory for all the DSLR's - the downside is that I believe you have to be infront of the camera (to one side is OK) for it to work and it does not operate the autofocus. I have used mine with MZ6, MZ7, ist DS2, K100D, K20D, and the original battery is still going strong. Mine now resides in the grip on my K20D.

It is handy for taking pictures of subjects that are difficult to approach, for self-potraits, or to minimize vibration for close-ups and time exposure.  Certain cameras feature a built-in 3-second delay in the shutter's release after being signaled by this remote.

Hope this helps,

Mike

[blackcloudbrew]

I just checked the K-x manual (from the Pentax site). No cable port on the camera (I didn't know that!) or blub mode. I don't own one either.

The remote control F is a small infra red remote trigger that you point at the camera (front or back I believe) and it will trip the shutter. It will work different distances from the camera depending on the lighting (strong daylight it will not work has been my experience). They work quite well on my k10/k20.

Tim

[Mike Pearson]

Just read this review that indicates that it will operate the autofocus under certain conditions:

http://www.amazon.com/Pen...roduct-reviews/B00005AB9R

Mike

Ed: "I didn't actually expect this to work, but it does.
- Supports auto-focus in the auto modes: AUTO PICT (green), SCN and any of the scene modes. You need to set "AF in remote control" in the camera and the camera will focus before releasing the shutter. On my K100D, "AF in remote control" was under the Custom Setting tab in the menu. "