Hi, One thing to look for is if the camera has sat idle for a couple of days is the aperture feedback resistor. Turn the camera on and while looking through the veiwfinder, change the aperture on the lens and watch the meter display. If the readings "jump" around, the resistor is dirty, and probably not worth fixing. This usually clears up with a few turns of the aperture ring so on a happier note, if the camera is to be used daily, or if you "excersise" the aperture ring before shooting, or plan to stay on "A" it's not to big of a deal. I have both a P3n (american P30n) and a P30t and they both have this problem. I've looked at a few other's that are used and they seem to have the same problem. I think it is common (design flaw) in this series.
As you suspect, the camera does not support TTL flash, but you do get programmed operation I know with the AF280t (don't set it for TTL) and the AF160SA. Probably other Pentax flashes as well, you might check Boz's site. Any other flash should work depending on the level of dedication it supports, if nothing else the camera has a separte setting for flash sync (1/100) and you can use the auto setting on the flash to determine aperture or good old guide number. The batteries seem to be available anywhere here in the States, you can also use alkaline A76 or silver S76 batteries. I think the A50/2 is rather mediocre from a build and handling standpoint ( Aperture and focus feel seem cheap) but optically it's pretty good. It would certainly be a good lens to start off with. Hope this helps, William in Utah. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kunzite" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Wednesday, October 08, 2003 7:14 AM Subject: Q about the P30n > Hello, > > I'm about to help a friend buying his first SLR. A manual Pentax, > preferably, in this way we'll be able to use the same lenses&accessories. > (unfortunately, I live in Romania - B&H, KEH and - especially - most of you > are too far away.) > I saw in a store a P30n (which I understand it's very similar to the P30t), > it looks good - the camera is clean and the shutter seems intact. > However, I'm not familiar with this type of cameras, so I have few > questions: > First, there is something I should be aware? (like sticky mirror, dials > which breaks etc.). I intend to check the camera (as I don't think Pentax > will service it) and I'll appreciate any advice (is the first time I'm doing > this). > Regarding flashes: afaik they works only in manual and auto; but are the > newer Pentax flashes compatible? How about third party, like Metz or Sigma? > I understand it uses LR44 alkaline, or SR44 batteries - they are easy to > find? If not, can I use other batteries? > And, about the included lens (the A 50mm f/2); what do you think about it? > > Thanks! > P.S. I'm trying to send the mail from another mail account, because the > normal one has some problems. > Alex Sarbu > >
