K5 Sensor Issues...

Even if Pentax weren't affected by the quake and tsunami directly there have been a lot of power cuts and shortages throughout Japan and requests from the government for factories to use less power at this time. I can't imagine Pentax/Hoya are exempt from that. And who knows where they get supplies of parts from?

The tsunami has had a knock on effect around the world for manufacturing. Now some paint colours for cars can't be delivered as the only factory in the world making the pigment needed is within the exclusion zone for the nuclear power plant. Renault, Peugeot and others have no diesel motors for new vehicles, Ford can deliver any colour except black (and red).

I am delighted with my K-5 recieved from SRS last week, but must say the Sensor was very dirty, and it was not just dust but I think multiple (Tiny) spots of grease. I had to buy some swabs and fluid from this super dealer (below) on eBay for £9.99, and I had to use 4 of the swabs to remove 99% of the spots. It would seem that they are not being checked by Pentax before being sent out.
http://stores.ebay.co.uk/digipads

Not great news Bill lets hope it is an isolated incident although that would seem unlikely and unlucky .....I am holding off this model at the moment and looking for the K7 instead for the time being I want to take photos not worry about sensor.
Thanks for that link I think I will take a look

Hi David,
I must add then that I have waited since January to get my K-5 to see how things went with these teathing problems, but now I'm very glad that I took the plunge,BUT I shall be keeping my Trusty K20D as back up for a few months yet in case I have to return the Superb K-5

All the best to you David.

I had to return my K5 which I just loved and am in that position where I dont want the stommach churning worry about whether or not the issue has been solved I do admit to being a lover of the K5 but I would keep the K7 as well as I like two cameras so now Im tempted again !!!!

Sent my K5 (with sensor stains brought in Nov 2010) back last wend and a new one arrived today. Sent direct because the official partner was not that helpful.

It has not been tested as yet but cannot complain about the turn around.

Hope its ok ,keep us posted

My K5 bought last December and with mid November build date was all clear until (as far as I'm aware)late March. String of pearls sensor stain developed and I contacted Cameraelectronic in Perth. They replaced the camera with a new K5 (392xxxx,build date Jan 17 2011). Can't complain about the service! New K5 is all set up and ready to go.
bb2

i think that is the bottom line..2 year guarantee so if it develops stains get a replacement.....

Checked mine yesterday and there were telltale stains.

Visited SRS this afternoon and body replaced there and then.

usual excellent service from SRS

Its reassuring to know check mine soon but so far it looks good

Great service from SRS for sure

It would be useful to know when any K-5's were bought and the date they were built. I think PhotoMe (free prog) gives the build date.

Again good to hear that SRS are on the ball.

I dont wish to go off topic but photoMe I just cant get to work its double dutch to me .
Would the seriel number not help un some way ?

It would probably be better than nothing, but Pentax SNo's don't usually follow any set pattern.