Pentax Optio M40

Connectivity
Software (7.5)
The Pentax Optio M40 comes with an all-in-one browser and editor for managing photos. For free software, the Pentax ACDSee (Software S-SW70) is surprisingly effective for viewing and making changes to images. New users should beware, though; if you leave ACDSee on the default setting, the packed screen makes for a congested interface. Luckily, the software lets users choose which panels to show or hide, so frequently used settings can be kept on hand.

The software is divided into four main sections, with the middle screen taking up the most space. Users can change the size of thumbnails with a sliding scale, similar to iPhoto.

The right column, called "Organize," has a helpful feature that allows users to sort through images by aperture, file size, ISO, keywords, or photographer, among other options. For example, to view all the images taken at f/8.0, users simply need to expand the "Commonly Used" folder, the "Aperture folder," select "f/8.0," and the main screen draws up images that qualify.

The left column has a "Folders" column and a "Preview" menu that Adobe Elements users will be accustomed to. These columns can also be hidden or displayed depending on preference.

The top toolbar contains navigation functions and editing tools, including Send, Modify (rotate, resize, etc.), and Slide Show. The top linear toolbar resembles what you’d find with a program like Microsoft Word.

Most users who are familiar with computers can easily navigate through the included Pentax ACDSee software. With its thorough and well organized interface, users will be pleased with the amount of personalized customization that can go into viewing and sorting images. Software S-SW70 is compatible with Windows and Macintosh operating systems.

Jacks, Ports, Plugs (5.75)
The Pentax Optio M40 has two ports. The DC-in port is located on the left side of the camera, securely covered under a plastic door. Users can connect the power adapter to the DC-in port to recharge the camera.



There is also one PC/AV port on the bottom of the camera that lacks a protective cover. Generally, it is better that ports are covered to prevent junk from getting lodged in them. The PC/AV port allows users to connect the camera to the computer via USB 2.0 connection or to a television set for viewing.

Direct Print Options (6.0)
As with most point-and-shoots, the M40’s PictBridge functionality allows users to directly print from the camera without having to connect to a computer.

Accessing the printing function takes a few steps, but is still simple. Since there is no dedicated print button like on Kodak or HP cameras, Pentax users will have to access the Mode menu, select USB connection, and decide between PC or PictBridge settings. Once the camera and printer are connected, users select images in Playback mode, select DPOF, and choose the number of copies (1 to 99). Users can choose to print a single image or all images with or without date information.

The Pentax M40 doesn’t offer as easy a method for direct printing as competing manufacturers, but printing without a computer is still possible on the Pentax camera.

Battery (5.0)
The Pentax M40 accepts a rechargeable lithium-ion (D-LI63). The flat battery keeps the camera portable and lasts for 220 shots per charge. It takes a reported 120 minutes to fully charge the battery.







Memory (3.25)
The Optio M40 has 21.9 MB of internal memory; that’s enough to store five pictures at full resolution. Users will certainly need to purchase external media. The camera is compatible with SD and SDHC memory cards.

Other Features (2.0)
Face Recognition AF & AE – The Pentax face detection system uses a Face Priority Autofocus mode that also automatically focuses on and exposes faces in Portrait and Natural Skin Tone modes.

Voice recording – In addition to adding an audio clip to a photo, users can record voice memos, songs, or any other type of audio in monaural WAV format through the mode preset. According to the Pentax M40 manual, the camera can record up to 24 hours of consecutive audio or until the memory card is full.