The HD PENTAX-DA★ 16-50mm F2.8ED PLM AW is one of the new-generation Star series of lenses for use with Pentax APS-C-format DSLRs. It features a large aperture of F2.8 over the entire zoom range to deliver incredible optical performance. This standard zoom Star series lens offers improved image quality and high-speed, high-precision autofocus operation in both stills and video shooting. The optics have been completely re-designed to give high-resolution, high-contrast images even at open aperture. This lens incorporates a PLM (Pulse Motor) for the first time in a large-aperture lens to assure high-speed, low-noise AF. It is also fine-tuned for greater operability in manual focus operation. Also featured is a dustproof, weather-resistant construction so it's ideal to use in all weather (AW) conditions.

Star-series lens, designed for optimal image quality

This standard zoom lens compensates for various aberrations to a minimum and delivers sharp, clear images, not only in the middle of the image field but at the edges. Incorporating one ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical element, one anomalous glass optical element and two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) aspherical glass optical elements, effectively reduces chromatic aberration to a minimum over the entire zoom range. Coupled with high-grade, multi-layer HD Coating, which reduces the average reflectance in the visible ray spectrum to less than 50% that of conventional multi-layer coatings, it effectively minimizes flare and ghost images even in demanding lighting conditions such as backlighting. This standard zoom lens delivers exceptionally high resolving power and outstanding contrast even at open aperture while capturing beautiful images with a smooth transition of the bokeh (defocus) effect and a true-to-life depth of field.

High-speed AF and close focus

This zoom lens incorporates a newly designed optical system which features a lighter, more compact focus-lens group. By driving this focus-lens group with an advanced PLM (Pulse Motor), it assures smooth, high-speed autofocus operation with minimized operational noise. Thanks to the redesigned focus mechanism, it provides a minimum focusing distance of just 0.3 metres, and a maximum magnification of 0.24 times, making this a handy, regular-use lens for capturing all types of subjects, from everyday snapshots to close-ups and landscapes.

Electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism

This zoom lens features an electromagnetic diaphragm control mechanism to assure high-precision exposure control when used in combination with compatible DSLR cameras. It also lets the user capture video clips using automatic exposure control, even when there are considerable differences in brightness during the video shooting. The PLM (Pulse Motor) assures smooth focus tracking operation and flawless exposure control, while considerably reducing annoying noise generated by focus and diaphragm control operations during video shooting. Its assures smooth, worry-free video shooting in locations prone to rapidly changing lighting conditions or with active, fast-moving subjects such as athletes or animals.

Dustproof, weather-resistant construction

Developed as an AW (All Weather) model, this zoom lens features a dustproof, weather-resistant construction to prevent the intrusion of water and dust particles into the lens interior. By pairing it with a PENTAX dustproof, weather-resistant digital SLR camera body, the user can create a highly durable, reliable digital imaging system that performs superbly even in the most demanding shooting conditions — in rain or mist, or at locations prone to splashing water.

Other features include:

• Effortless manual-focus operation, with limited lens extension during focusing between the minimum focusing distance and infinity and optimum focus-ring torque
• Nine-blade circular diaphragm to produce a natural, beautiful bokeh (defocus) effect (from open aperture to F5.6 in the wide-angle range; from open aperture to F8 in the telephoto range), while minimizing the streaking of point light sources
• Quick-Shift Focus System to provide an instant shift to manual-focus operation, after locking the subject in focus during AF operation by pressing the camera’s shutter-release button halfway down; this system can be used at any time during AF operation
• SP (Super Protect) Coating to keep the lens front surface free of dust and stains