Specifications

FLASH SYNCHRONIZATION

The MX has FP and X terminals on the front of the

camera body, and a separate X contact on the built-in hot

shoe. The table on the next page shows which flash

contact, which shutter speed and which flash bulb may be

combined for maximum lamp efficiency. Unless these

combinations are rigidly followed, there will be a failure

in flash synchronization. Note the "X" setting is exactly at

the 60 mark on the shutter speed dial. This indicates the

highest shutter speed at which electronic flash units may

be used. Use the hot shoe flash contact when using a

shoemount electronic flash like the Pentax Autostrob

which has a flash contact on the shoe bracket. When using

the hot shoe, there is no need to plug the flash cord into

the X terminal on the front of the body. The hot shoe flash

contact turns to "hot" (switched on) only when you insert

a shoe mount electronic flash. It remains "cold"

(disconnected) even when using an electronic flash with

its cord plugged into the X terminal on the body front.

This eliminates the danger of electric shocks.

There are basically two types of flash bulb attachments on the market: clip-on types and

bracket types. Either can be used with your camera. The clip-on types are attached to

the hot shoe and the bracket types are attached via the tripod socket.

Use one of these three bulb types: M, MF or FP. The correct terminal and the correct

shutter speed to use for each of these three types are outlined in the table below. Before

attaching the flash unit to the camera, you must remove the protective plug from the

proper terminal. When not using the terminals, keep the plugs inserted.