The Optio A10 camera is the first PENTAX compact digital with an 8.0 effective megapixel CCD packaged in the signature slim, lightweight, stylish design of the Optio digital camera line. PENTAX also introduces an innovative Shake Reduction system in the A10 to help ensure sharper images.

"The A10 represents a complete upgrade and overhaul of our digital camera series and will be the first model of our high-end Optio series," said Ned Bunnell, director of marketing, PENTAX Imaging Company. "With 8 megapixels, shake reduction and a new smc PENTAX zoom lens, the Optio A10 is our flagship model," added Bunnell.

PENTAX developed Shake Reduction to eliminate situations where camera shake typically causes blurred images such as telephoto or indoor shots without a flash. The Shake Reduction mechanism is made possible by two internal gyro sensors that detect camera shake while a dedicated CPU calculates the required correction to compensate for the level of camera shake while focusing. In turn, a proprietary mechanism adjusts the CCD automatically based on the calculation and compensates for the camera shake to help deliver sharper images.

PENTAX also announced the Optio E10, an affordable, entry-level compact digital camera with a 6.0 effective megapixel CCD and a 3X optical zoom lens. The Optio E10 features a Mode dial that permits a Simple mode selection and is packaged in a slim, lightweight body aimed at beginning photographers.

Both digital cameras use a new model naming system for PENTAX cameras based on a letter and model number description rather than the number of megapixels. The Optio A series, for example, designates a new high-end product line, while the Optio E series indicates easy-to-use products.

"Our aim with the new naming system is to make it easier for customers to understand our product line, from entry to high-end and allow us much more flexibility in expanding our product line as we move forward with these and other new digital cameras," added Bunnell.

Both models will be on display in the PENTAX Imaging Booth number 35335 in the South Hall 4 during CES. The PENTAX Optio A10 will ship in February 2006 for under $350 US, and the Optio E10 will ship that same month for under $200 US.

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of compact and digital SLR cameras, binoculars, lenses, eyepieces, mobile printers, scanners and Internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.