It is a new autofocus design for the smaller APS format CCD sensor, has no aperture ring, is optimised for digital capture.

The SMC Pentax-M 40mm f2.8 is a manual focus lens for the M series cameras, with no A setting on the aperture ring. It can be used on the DSLRs but with limited functionality.

Tests I have seen have suggested this is a top quality digital objective.

I really liked the look of it, but then started to wonder why I needed a 60mm equivalent lens when I already have lots of excellent lenses that cover that.

So I'm waiting for the 12-24mm instead, which does extend my range of optics.

Yes, a KAF mount to be precise. The adapter will enable you to fit M42 lenses to your DSLR. They will operate in stop-down mode - if you set the A/M switch to A you will be able to focus at full aperture, then switch it to M to stop it down to mater and take the picture. Alternatively, leave it on M and just use the aperture ring.

Aperture priority and manual exposure modes will be available on the *istDS.

Yes please, just package them all up and post them to.....

Seriously, the macro lenses are great but we still need the fast standard lenses for when the light levels fall. Especially with slow films like Velvia.

I second all of that.

Hi Mac

There are lots of books available covering both general photography and lenses in particular.

It's a fascinating subject. Ideally I would start with a trip to the local library or a good bookstore and have a browse. Alternatively, eBay has a good selection of books old and new.

If you want an introduction to lenses a fairly informative and relatively painless one would be "The Lens Book" by Roger Hicks and Frances Shultz (David & Charles, ISBN 0 7153 0149 7). A good source for purchasing might be Amazon.com

Now there's a thought!

Steps are being taken to block this invasion, but we shall have to see if it remains a problem. Hopefully we won't be a target for ever....

If it does remain a problem, then a rethink may be in order.

I think to be fair Pentax have preserved a huge amount of backwards compatibility with all their SLR cameras. After all, you could still conceivably use an Asahiflex lens on the current DSLRs, albeit with a couple of adapters to achieve it. 42mm screww thread lenses can be used with the K mount adapter, and all bayonet lenses are compatible within the limitations of each lens type.

Set against this is progress of various sorts, and pentax can't be held back by their past engineering either. The trend does seem to be towards SD cards because their smaller size makes more compact camera designs possible, and there is no down-side as regards speed or reliability.

Personally, I have cameras that use CF cards and cameras that use SD cards, but then again I have cameras that use 120 film and cameras that use 35mm film...

I know several friends who have had to clean their CCDs, usually using some sort of wipe.

Personally, after almost a year, I have found no dust spots at all, and as long as that holds true i won't be thinking about sensor cleaning.

Like lens cleaning, only do it if you have to.