The above is what writing code for Pentax Firmware looks like.Visitors to this page also liked: See "Recommended Reading" on the right column.We honor reciprocal links. Email: brqyvn@aol.com
Hi Pentaxian friends.
We all know that digital cameras are somewhat like computers. Sure, they use real glass lenses and many of the traditional analog cameras characteristics are still utilized. However, some of the functions , if not most of them, are embedded into the camera's "Firmware". Currently, only Pentax can modify the Firmware and they do so by issuing downloadable revisions mostly to fix problems reported by users.
You know that the cheaper DSLRs could have some of the same functions as the more expensive models. For example, the new K-x does not show the "red-illuminated" square over the focus point. I suspect that it could easily be added in the Firmware. The K20D and the K-7 have the capability of adjusting the front/back focus of any lens attached. Again, I suspect that this feature could be added in the Firmware. I remember the complaints from K10D owners wanting to have the K10D updated so that it too would have the capability of adjusting front/back focusing. I also remember some hacker, from Russia, coming up with some solution to the problem, that anyone could somehow enter in the firmware. Of course, any problems caused by someone unsuccessfully trying to modify the Firmware, automatically voided the warranty.
There are many great software companies in the world, that could come up with pretty interesting features. Why not grant a license to these guys and let them sell additional features for the Pentax cameras. Instead of reducing the sales, I believe it would increase them.
Would you buy an Apple computer if only Apple were able to write software for its computers? Would you buy a PC if it would only run on the manufacturer's software? Of course you wouldn't.
Pentax has always been a unique company with design and ideas outside the box. Maybe time has come. The time to beat Canikon at the game has come...maybe.
What do you think?
Thank you for reading,
Yvon Bourque
.jpg)
The K-x, with its excellent 12MP CMOS sensor, great Image Quality and a price at around $600.00 is the best deal for the people wanting to upgrade from Point & Shoot cameras. It can still be an Auto-everything camera like a Point & Shoot, but the IQ is so much better and the Video capability of the K-x makes it an even better deal. It's a DSLR that is so helpful for entry-level photographer, as you can gradually learn how to control the camera settings and eventually use it to its full potential by adjusting the controls (Aperture, Shutter speed and ISO) yourself.
A handy accessory that I've found more and more uses for lately, especially when it comes to shooting video with a DSLR, are the Litepanels lighting fixtures. Using a grid-like pattern of soft LED (light emitting diode) lights, Litepanels attach to the top of your camera via a cold shoe mount and are powered by either regular AA or Lithium Ion AA cells. There are two versions, the smaller Litepanels Micro which uses five batteries, or the larger MicroPro that takes six batteries. 
