Petition to Pentax about SDM option in firmware

I came across this petition via 1001 noisy cameras. It asks Pentax for the option in camera firmware to select between SDM and screw drive for those lenses that support both. This is mainly to have 'backup' if the SDM fails. Both my SDM lenses work fine but the option would seem sensible.

Agree 100%, I've just signed it, maybe it's the only way to get Pentax to sit up and take notice on this particular issue. It's not going to help people with the 17-70 though

Edit: btw both my SDM equipped lenses are working fine (16-50 & 60-250) but it would be interesting to be able to compare focus lock speed. Perhaps this is something that could be a slight embarrassment to Pentax with screw drives locking faster..... just a theory

I've just signed it as well.

The backup already exists - It's called Manual Focus!

It will keep you going if the AF fails while you are out shooting. You can then get the lens repaired either under warranty (free), or if out of warranty, by sending it to either Asahi Photo who can replace the SDM motor (if neccessary) and inspect and clean the lens for around £65, or to Pentax Service who will probably charge more.

I haven't signed the petition as I feel it's not the right mechanism for user feedback. Pentax read the forums and also have close contact with many users, they are well aware, believe me!

I don't think it hurts Richard, just another angle on a hot potato

Just signed it but if it is made available only for current models, I'll be well pi$$ed off.

Pentax could retrofit so many good features that are pure firmware to older models (yes, I know they are in the business of selling product). Most of us have been loyal to Pentax for many years, it's payback time.

Pentax could pull a clever move by releasing the firmware of older models to the opensource/enthusiasts and watching developments! Might give them good ideas for future products!

Or DA*55 and all the upcoming DA* and SDM lenses.
I'll try to find the interview where they said it's to complex to design a dual focus system (KAF2) so all will be screw-drive (KAF) or SDM (KAF3) from now on.

I'm really in for that, even with the current models.

There are enough people with the knowledge of writing the firmware, if Hoya was smart they could use those people as one of there own and test features and codes they write and use it in there official firmware if it really works correctly.

If the SDM fails it may not be a good idea to revert to screwdriver or manual as it may make the damage worse or contaminate the rest of the lens and camera body with debris.

I suspect the SDM is a small brushless motor? If so I doubt much damage is done when it fails unless there is some kind of delamination.

I would just like to be able to switch between SDM and screw drive when the shooting situation suits.
The K-7 is much faster with my screw drive lenses so I'd like to see how the 16-50 & 60-250 perform using the screw drive option

I don't understand why they went to SDM in the first place - it makes no sense to me! What's wrong with the old screw drive mechanism, it's simple and reliable.

The worry is naturally that Pentax will abandon screw drive on future bodies, which wouldn't be good news for people who've got hefty sums invested in screw drive lenses. Yes, the new ones may be better but I'd rather upgrade because I've seen that a new lens is better, not because I've been forced to as my old one won't work with my new camera.

It is, but not the more conventional synthetic commutator, rather a piezoelectric drive. I understand there is contact between rotor and stator.

I can't imagine they would do that Matt, I would have thought that would amount to jumping from a plane without a parachute, well almost anyway. They would be alienating too many long term customers.

K10D onwards LINK

Not official by any means.

I believe I can swap to screw drive on my DA* lenses by going back a firmware on K10D.

This is so true. I hope someone from Pentax reads this.

Cheers,

/Ian