I have tried the test shots, with the kit lens at 55mm.
"No SR at 1/90th at f5.6" looks similar to "with SR at 1/15th at f16".
Generally, based on about 30 shots, having Shake Reduction turned on seems to produce a sharper shot at around 1/15th , and 1/30th.
The benefits are not noticeable at faster shutter speeds; and at slower speeds I can't see a difference, I guess because it's camera movement causing the problem as well as camera shake.
So, my camera seems to be working, and, if I get the 55-300 lens, what will be the shutter speeds where SR gives the maximum benefit ?

Johnwhit
Well spotted, I tried it on Manual, occasionally there is pronounced movement of the sensor, but usually nothing.
John Riley
I'll try that, the last time I tried to do a comparison it was inconclusive, but no harm in a more structured repeat.
I only joined the forum this week, well pleased with results so far !
Thanks to you both
David

John,
Thanks.
I've tried with S.R. turned on and turned off.
At both settings ( on bulb ) I can hear a faint noise, abit like a geiger counter, but it seems to much less if the camers is on a firm base. Though with the current gale blowing there is still probably a bit of shake on the dining table.
When the camera is being hand held, I can see the reflection of a window in the sensor , but I can't see any diference in the image , whatever the SR setting, and I can't spot any relative movement of the sensor and the fixed part of the camera.
Despite your best efforts you are being limited by the skills and competence of the operator !
Feels like I should perhaps take it back to the original dealer, and ask his advice, he must be more experienced at fault identification than I am.
Rgds David

John, thanks, I've just tried that. I can't see a movement , though I can hear a faint noise

Thanks for the quick response.
Yes, I've been manually inputting the focal length with the old lenses; though I've mainly tried the testing with the kit lens otherwise I'm on full aperture.

I originally used an MEsuper for transparencies, moved to a digital compact, then bought the K200intending to make use of my old lenses which had been giving good results (vivitars 28mm and 75-150 with a 2x multiplier). However, cropping the shots taken with the kit zoom are just as good as using the old lenses, apart from the original 50mm pentax which is marginally better.
I can't tell whether the shake reduction is working, test shots are inconclusive, I can't hear any motor noise.
What is the best way to check ?
I'm considering getting the 55-300, and then shake reduction might become more of an issue.