Firmware update for Ricoh GR DIGITAL III

Since Pentax is now almost part of Pentax, maybe a Ricoh post might not be so bad

Ricoh has released a function-enhancing firmware for the GR DIGITAL III.
This update support enhancement that where developed because of request and opinions giving by customers and users.

The firmware will be released mid-october.

These are the enhancements.
1. Addition of contrast bracketing
You can automatically record three images with different contrast settings. The contrast can be adjusted on a five-level scale.

2. Expansion of ADJ. control settings
You can assign five functions to the ADJ control (currently four). The assigned functions can be directly changed without going through the menu screen.

3. Addition of ISO [AUTO-HI] setting function
When using ISO [AUTO-HI], you can specify settings for switching the maximum ISO and for the point (shutter speed) for changing ISO sensitivity.

4. Addition of vignetting setting function for high contrast B&W
For high contrast B&W, you can adjust the vignetting. The vignetting setting options are off, weak, and strong.

5. Support for the GL-1 metal lens cap (with power button lock mechanism)
This firmware addition provides support for the power button lock mechanism of the GL-1 metal lens cap, which is a new option to be introduced in mid-October 2011. This prevents the problem of unexpected extension of the lens since the lock function is in effect if the power button is pushed.

Thats interesting to know Stefan, that Ricoh is listening to its customers, perhaps the future is looking very good for Pentax.

Interesting to note that have announced the GR Digital IV.

Ricoh has taken the opportunity to introduce numerous enhancements to the GRD IV. As you might expect, there's an updated image processor that Ricoh is using to wring more out of the sensor. Beyond this the most notable addition is an image stabilization system that uses sensor-shift to counteract camera shake.
The camera's electronic level gauge has also been overhauled, and now detects not only horizontal roll, but also tilt inclination, which is eminently useful when photographing buildings or other vertical structures.

Looks like they have got their moneys worth from Pentax already

At the moment at least, this is off topic. It's still a Pentax User forum, but we'll see later what, if anything, happens when the Ricoh deal is completed.

Can see an interesting situation arising;
used to be that Samsung GX10 and GX20 gear and photo`s where accepted here because of the similarities with Pentax ( I Think)
Now that Ricoh will own Pentax what will the "ruling" be ?
IMHO it would be a pity to dilute this forum with other makes being accepted.
I quite like the exclusivity of being a Pentax user.

Davex.

GX10/20 owners were (still are) tollerated on this forum as basically they are the same camera as the K10/20, dont think they could post images in the gallery though?

If the deal goes through then Pentax WILL be Ricoh so there will more than likely be a sub forum for Ricoh, but of course it all depends on how Ricoh market cameras after the takeover.

Yes, quite. It's a little too soon anyway.

The Samsung DSLRs were allowed in purely because they were actually Pentax DSLRs. There's a rationale for that, wheras the compacts were not allowed in because they had nothing to do with Pentax.

Likewise, the Ricoh GR has nothing to do with Pentax as things stand now.

well Pentax, maybe now going to Ricoh but whats going to happen to pentax update will Ricoh take over that and keep them updated ?

Ricoh are buying Pentax to expand their business, and have indicated a special interest in increasing the DSLR and lens ranges. It's safe to assume that Pentax will continue to offer the necessary.

I think the word tollerated is a bit harsh

Welcomed is the word.

Me too .

Does anyone know of a pre-existing Ricoh forum similar to PU?

I think it was quite an appropriate word

Come back Samsung users, all is forgiven

www.ricohforum.com