Pentax X90 User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

C
Caroline ReyesJul 26, 2025
What to do if the shutter will not release on Pentax X90 Digital Camera?
- I
  idominguezJul 26, 2025
  If the shutter on your Pentax Digital Camera won't release, it could be due to a few reasons: 1. **Flash Charging:** Wait for the flash to finish charging before attempting to take a picture. 2. **Memory Full:** If there's no space on your SD card or in the built-in memory, either insert an SD card with available space or delete unwanted images. 3. **Recording in Progress:** Please wait until the recording finishes.
I
iandersonJul 30, 2025
Why no image appears on Pentax X90 display?
- G
  Grace GuerreroJul 30, 2025
  If no image appears on the display of your Pentax Digital Camera, it might be because: * The camera is connected to a computer or TV. The display turns off in this case. * The viewfinder is selected. Press the G button.
B
Brian MejiaAug 5, 2025
What to do if the flash does not discharge on Pentax X90?
- C
  Cynthia NewmanAug 5, 2025
  If the flash on your Pentax Digital Camera isn't discharging, consider these points: * **Flash Position:** Make sure the flash is popped up. * **Flash Mode:** Ensure the flash mode is set to Auto or Flash On, and not another setting. * **Incompatible Modes:** The flash will not work if the drive mode or focus mode is set to specific incompatible settings.
E
Eric BrownAug 10, 2025
Why subject is not in focus on Pentax Digital Camera?
- E
  esandersAug 10, 2025
  If the subject is not in focus on your Pentax Digital Camera, it may be due to: * **Difficult Subject:** The camera might struggle with low contrast, dark, finely-patterned, or rapidly moving subjects, or when shooting through glass. Try using focus lock or manual focus. * **Subject Placement:** Position the subject within the focus frame in the display's center. Use focus lock to recompose, or use AF Area Selection mode.
M
Mia DavisAug 14, 2025
How to fix Pentax X90 Digital Camera display if it is hard to see?
- D
  Darlene WilliamsAug 15, 2025
  If the display on your Pentax Digital Camera is hard to see, try these solutions: * **Brightness Level:** Adjust the brightness level in the camera's settings menu. * **Power Saving:** If the Power Saving function is on, the display dims automatically. Press any button to restore brightness or disable Power Saving in the settings.
B
bbrownAug 20, 2025
Why picture is dark when using the flash on Pentax X90?
- K
  kerrsheilaAug 20, 2025
  If your Pentax Digital Camera picture is dark when using the flash, it's likely because the subject is too far away. Ensure the subject is within the specified flash range.

Pentax X90 Specifications

General

Megapixel	12.1 MP
Camera type	Compact camera
Sensor type	CCD
Image sensor size	1/2.33 \
Maximum image resolution	4000 x 3000 pixels
Digital zoom	6.25 x
Optical zoom	26 x
Combined zoom	162.5 x
Focal length range	26 - 676 mm
Number of aspheric elements	4
Interface	USB 2.0
Digital SLR	No
Video capability	Yes
Camera shutter speed	1/4000 - 1/4 s
Compatible operating systems	Windows XP/Vista/7 MacOS-X 10.3.9, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6
Display diagonal	2.7 \
Display resolution (numeric)	230000 pixels
Material	Polycarbonate
Product color	Black
Focus	TTL
Normal focusing range	0.52 - ∞ m
Auto focusing (AF) modes	multi point auto focus, spot auto focus
Closest focusing distance	0.012 m
Super Macro focusing range	0.012 - 0.39 m
Macro focusing range (tele)	13.2 - 65.6 m
Normal focusing range (tele)	1.7 - ∞ m
Normal focusing range (wide)	0.4 - ∞ m
Flash modes	auto, Flash off, manual, Red-eye reduction, Slow synchronization
Flash range (wide)	12 m
Internal memory	31.2 MB
Compatible memory cards	sd, sdhc
Video formats supported	AVI
USB version	2.0
Scene modes	Backlight, beach, Candlelight, Children, Close-up (macro), Fireworks, Night, Night portrait, Panorama, party (indoor), Portrait, self-portrait, Sports, Sunset, Landscape (scenery)
Image editing	crop, resizing, rotating
Photo effects	Black&White
White balance	auto, daylight, Fluorescent, manual, Shade, Tungsten
Camera playback	movie, single image, slide show, thumbnails
Self-timer delay	2, 10 s
Battery type	rechargable
Operating temperature (T-T)	0 - 40 °C
Viewfinder type	Electronic

Weight and Dimensions

Depth	109 mm
Width	111 mm
Height	83.8 mm
Weight	427 g

Summary

Regarding Camera Usage and Safety

Copyright and Usage Rights

Information about image usage rights and copyright law.

Trademark Information

Lists trademarks and their owners, including PENTAX, HDMI, etc.

Product Registration

Information on product registration via CD-ROM or PENTAX website.

Using Your Pentax Camera Safely

General Camera Information

Discusses general information and precautions about the camera.

Battery Charger and AC Adapter Safety

Information regarding the safe use of the battery charger and AC adapter.

Battery Safety and Handling

Details about battery usage, safety, and handling precautions.

Child Safety Precautions

Safety instructions regarding keeping the camera and accessories away from children.

Camera Handling and Maintenance

Pre-Use Camera Preparation

Advice on preparing the camera before initial use, especially when traveling.

Battery and Charger Care

Guidance on storing and charging the battery.

Carrying and Usage Precautions

Important precautions for handling and using the camera in various conditions.

Camera Cleaning Procedures

Instructions for cleaning the camera body and lens.

Camera Storage Guidelines

Recommendations for storing the camera properly to prevent mold.

Additional Handling Precautions

General precautions, including periodic inspections and SD memory card handling.

Viewing Images on a Computer

Computer Setup for Image Transfer

Steps for installing software and preparing the computer for camera connection.

Connecting Camera to Computer

Instructions on how to connect the camera to the computer.

Wireless LAN Image Transfer

Information on using wireless LAN for image transfer.

Camera Features Overview

Intuitive Capture and Playback

Highlights the camera's user-friendly design for capture and playback operations.

Portrait Photography Features

Details the Face Detection function for capturing portraits.

Adding Decorative Frames

Explains how to add decorative frames to pictures.

Calendar View for Images

Describes displaying images by date in calendar format.

Advanced Movie Recording Functions

Features related to movie recording, including Shake Reduction and HDTV format.

In-Camera Image Management

Highlights in-camera editing and recovery functions without needing a computer.

Package Contents and Part Identification

Package Contents

Lists the items included in the camera package.

Camera Parts Identification

Identifies major external parts of the camera.

Operating Part Identification

Identifies and explains the function of various buttons and controls.

Monitor Information Display

Display Guide Indications

Shows indications for button/key operations displayed during use.

Histogram Usage for Image Analysis

Explains how to use the histogram to check brightness and contrast.

Understanding Image Brightness

Details how to interpret brightness using the histogram.

Understanding Image Contrast

Explains how to interpret contrast using the histogram.

1 Getting Started

Attaching Lens Cap and Strap

Step-by-step guide on attaching the lens cap and strap.

Powering the Camera On

Instructions on how to charge and install the battery and use the AC adapter.

Installing the SD Memory Card

Guide on inserting and removing the SD memory card.

Camera Power Management

Procedure for powering the camera on and off.

Initial Camera Setup

Steps for setting the initial language, date, and time.

Viewfinder Diopter Adjustment

How to adjust the viewfinder to suit eyesight.

Battery Information and Capacity

Image Storage and Recording Times

Provides estimated capacity and time based on camera settings.

Battery Level Indicator Guide

Explains how to interpret the battery level indicator on the screen.

SD Memory Card Usage Precautions

SD Memory Card Handling Precautions

Safety and handling precautions for SD memory cards.

Recordable Image Capacity

Information on how recorded pixels affect storage capacity.

Camera Startup and Memory Status

SD Memory Card Status Check

Explains how the camera checks the SD memory card status.

Initiating Playback Mode

Instructions on how to start the camera directly in playback mode.

Initial Camera Settings Configuration

Setting the Display Language

Procedure for selecting the menu and message language.

2 Common Operations

Understanding Camera Button Functions

Explains the functions of the camera's buttons.

Configuring Camera Functions via Menus

How to access and change camera settings using menus.

Switching Between Capture and Playback Modes

Instructions for switching between capture and playback modes.

Camera Menu Reference

Rec. Mode Menu Options

Lists items available in the [Rec. Mode] menu with descriptions and page numbers.

Setting Menu Options

Lists items available in the [Setting] menu with descriptions and page numbers.

3 Taking Pictures

Capturing Still Images

Guide on how to take still pictures using the camera.

Selecting Shooting Modes

Explains how to switch between different shooting modes.

Choosing Shooting Modes by Situation

Guidance on choosing shooting modes based on specific scenarios.

Various Shooting Techniques

Describes different shooting techniques and methods.

Exposure Adjustment Guide

Instructions on adjusting exposure for optimal picture brightness.

Configuring Shooting Functions

How to configure various shooting-related functions.

Movie Recording Procedures

Steps and information for recording video with the camera.

Saving Camera Settings

How to save current camera settings for later retrieval.

Still Picture Capture Techniques

Proper Camera Holding Technique

Proper techniques for holding the camera to prevent shake.

Camera Shooting Mode Features

Instant Review and Blink Detection

Explains Instant Review and Blink Detection features.

Face Detection Functionality

Details how to use the Face Detection feature for portraits.

Switching Face Detection Modes

Instructions on switching between Face Detection and Smile Capture modes.

Basic Mode (Green Mode) Operation

Guide to using the simple Green Mode for easy picture taking.

Using the Camera Zoom Function

How to use the zoom lever to change the captured area.

Digital Zoom Settings

Instructions for enabling or disabling digital zoom.

Exposure Adjustment Guide

How to adjust the overall brightness of the picture.

Shooting Mode Selection

Understanding Picture Modes

Explains basic shooting modes like Auto Picture and Sport.

Utilizing Scene (SCN) Modes

Details various Scene modes for specific shooting situations.

Exposure Modes Explained

Explains Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, and Manual modes.

Shooting Modes by Scenario

Low Light Scene Photography

Guidance for shooting in low-light conditions.

Portrait and People Photography

Specific modes for capturing portraits of people of all ages.

Children Photography (Kids Mode)

Mode optimized for capturing children's photos.

Pet Photography (Pet Mode)

Special mode for photographing pets.

Backlit Subject Photography

How to handle shooting subjects against bright light sources.

Sports and Outdoor Photography

Modes for capturing fast action and outdoor activities.

Indoor and Party Photography

Mode optimized for indoor and party photography.

Advanced Shooting Techniques

Framing Pictures with Composite Mode

How to use built-in frames to compose pictures.

Using the Self-Timer

Instructions for using the self-timer for group shots or to avoid shake.

Continuous and Burst Shooting

How to capture multiple shots continuously or in bursts.

Interval Shooting Setup

How to set the camera to take pictures automatically at specified intervals.

Exposure Bracketing for Optimal Exposure

How to capture bracketed exposures for optimal results.

Digital Wide Angle Functionality

How to stitch two vertical images for a wider view.

Panoramic Photography Mode

How to capture multiple frames to create a panoramic photo.

Exposure Control and Settings

Shutter Speed and Aperture Effects

Explains how aperture and shutter speed affect image depth and motion.

Shutter Speed Control Explained

How shutter speed controls motion blur and freezing action.

Aperture Control Explained

How aperture controls depth of field and background blur.

Using Program (P) Auto-Exposure Mode

Instructions for using the Program auto-exposure mode.

Using Shutter Priority (Tv) Mode

How to set shutter speed for controlling motion.

Using Aperture Priority (Av) Mode

How to set aperture for controlling depth of field.

Using Manual Exposure (M) Mode

How to manually control shutter speed and aperture.

Customizing Settings with USER Mode

How to save and retrieve custom camera settings.

Configuring Shooting Functions

Flash Mode Selection Options

Options for controlling flash behavior (Auto, Off, On, Red-eye).

Using the Camera Flash

Steps to pop up and use the camera's flash.

Focus Mode Selection Guide

Different autofocus modes and their uses.

Manual Focus Adjustment

How to manually adjust focus.

AF Area Selection Configuration

How to choose the specific area for autofocus.

Autofocus Settings Configuration

How to configure autofocus behavior and area.

Auto Macro Focus Setting

How to set focus for close-up subjects.

Focus Assist Light Configuration

How to enable the focus assist light for low-light conditions.

Image Tone Adjustment

How to adjust image color and contrast (Bright, Natural, Monochrome).

Recorded Pixels Selection

How to choose image resolution for different uses like printing or web.

Still Picture Quality Level Selection

How to set image quality (Best, Better, Good) affecting file size.

White Balance Adjustment

How to adjust colors for different lighting conditions.

Sensitivity (ISO) Setting

How to adjust ISO sensitivity for different lighting levels.

ISO Correction in AUTO Mode

How to adjust the ISO range when sensitivity is set to AUTO.

AE Metering Setting

How to choose the screen area for exposure metering.

Flash Output Compensation

How to adjust the flash intensity.

Brightness Compensation (D-Range)

How to balance bright and dark areas in an image.

Shake Reduction Function Usage

How to use the function to reduce camera shake.

Blink Detection Function Setup

How to enable or disable Blink Detection during Face Detection.

Instant Review Setting

How to enable or disable the immediate review of captured images.

Image Sharpness Adjustment

How to adjust image sharpness or softness.

Color Saturation/Tone Adjustment

How to adjust color saturation or monochrome tone.

Image Contrast Adjustment

How to adjust the image contrast level.

Date Imprint Function Setup

How to imprint date and/or time on pictures.

Green Button Function Assignment

How to assign functions to the Green button for quick access.

Movie Recording Operations

Recording a Movie

Steps for starting and stopping movie recording.

Movie Resolution and Frame Rate Selection

How to choose movie resolution and frame rate for desired quality and file size.

Movie Shake Reduction (SR) Function

How to use the function to reduce movie shake.

Saving Camera Settings (Memory Function)

4 Playing Back and Deleting Images

Playback of Images and Movies

How to view still pictures and movies on the camera.

Image and Sound Deletion

How to delete unwanted images or sounds.

Connecting to AV Equipment

How to connect the camera to a TV or other AV devices.

Still Image Playback Procedures

Viewing Individual Still Pictures

Steps for viewing individual still images.

Movie Playback Guide

Playing Back Recorded Movies

How to play back recorded movies and control playback.

Multi-Image Display Options

Four and Nine Image Thumbnail Display

How to display four or nine thumbnails of images at once.

Folder and Calendar Image Navigation

How to organize and view images by folder or date.

Playback Function Navigation

Accessing Playback Options via Palette

Accessing various playback options via the Playback Mode Palette.

Playback Mode Palette Functions

Slideshow Playback

How to play back images automatically in a sequence.

Slideshow Configuration Options

Setting Slideshow Interval and Effects

How to configure slideshow interval, screen, and sound effects.

Image Rotation Function

Rotating Images for Viewing

How to rotate images for proper viewing orientation.

Zoom Playback Functionality

Magnifying Images During Playback

How to magnify images for closer inspection.

Face Close-up Playback

Automatic Face Zooming

Automatically zooms into detected faces in images.

Image Deletion Procedures

Deleting a Single Image File

Step-by-step instructions to delete one image at a time.

Deleting Voice Memos from Images

How to delete only the voice memo associated with an image.

Deleting Multiple Selected Images

How to delete multiple selected images simultaneously.

Bulk Image Deletion

Deleting All Images and Sounds

How to delete all images and sounds from the camera.

Restoring Deleted Files

Recovering Deleted Images and Sounds

How to restore accidentally deleted images and sounds.

Protecting Images from Accidental Deletion

Image Protection Function

How to mark images to prevent accidental deletion.

Connecting Camera to External Devices

Video Output to AV Devices

How to connect the camera to a TV using an AV cable.

Video Output to HDMI Devices

How to connect the camera to a TV using an HDMI cable.

Selecting Video Output Format (NTSC/PAL)

How to choose between NTSC and PAL video output.

Selecting HDMI Output Format

How to select the HDMI output signal format (1080i, 720p, etc.).

5 Editing and Printing Images

In-Camera Image Editing Overview

Overview of in-camera image editing functions.

DPOF Printing Service Setup

How to set print order data for DPOF-compatible printers.

Image Editing Operations

Resizing Images (Changing Resolution)

How to reduce image resolution to save space.

Cropping Images

How to trim unwanted parts of an image.

Face Size Reduction for Portraits

How to automatically reduce the apparent size of faces in portraits.

Applying Digital Filters

How to apply various color filters and effects to images.

Red-eye Effect Correction

How to correct red-eye caused by flash photography.

Adding Frames to Pictures

How to add decorative frames to still pictures.

Editing Movie Files

How to cut still images from movies or divide movies.

Copying Image Files

How to copy images between built-in memory and SD card.

DPOF Printing Configuration

Setting Print Options for Single Images

How to set print options for individual images using DPOF.

Setting Print Options for All Images

How to set print options for all images using DPOF.

6 Recording and Playing Back Sound

Adding Voice Memos to Images

How to record and attach voice memos to still pictures.

Recording a Voice Memo

Steps for recording a voice memo.

Playing Back Voice Memos

How to play back recorded voice memos.

7 Settings

Camera Settings Overview

Overview of camera configuration options.

SD Memory Card Formatting

How to initialize an SD memory card for use with the camera.

Sound Settings Configuration

How to adjust operation volumes and sound types.

Date and Time Settings

How to set the camera's date, time, and date format.

World Time Setup

How to set destination cities for world time display.

Destination Time Display

How to view the date and time for selected destination cities.

Display Language Change

How to change the language for menus and messages.

Folder Naming System Configuration

How to set folder naming conventions (Date or PENTX).

Display Brightness Adjustment

How to change the LCD screen brightness.

Power Saving Function Setup

How to set the camera to automatically dim or turn off the display.

Auto Power Off Timer Setting

How to set the camera to turn off automatically after inactivity.

Quick Zoom Functionality Setup

How to enable quick zoom for magnified playback.

Guide Display Settings

How to enable or disable guide displays in menus.

Customizing the Start-up Screen

How to choose a custom start-up image.

CCD Pixel Mapping for Correction

How to map and correct defective pixels on the image sensor.

Resetting to Default Settings

How to restore camera settings to factory defaults.

8 Viewing Images on a Computer

Computer Setup for Image Transfer

Steps for installing software and preparing the computer for camera connection.

Connecting Camera to Computer

Instructions on how to connect the camera to the computer.

Wireless LAN Image Transfer

Information on using wireless LAN for image transfer.

Bundled Software Information

Information about the included "MediaImpression 2.0 for PENTAX" software.

Software System Requirements

Computer specifications needed to run the software.

Software Installation Guide

Step-by-step guide for installing the MediaImpression software on Windows.

Internet Product Registration

Instructions for registering the product online.

USB Connection Mode Settings

How to set the USB mode (MSC or PTP) for connecting to a computer.

MSC and PTP Protocols Explained

Explains the Mass Storage Class and Picture Transfer Protocol.

Connecting Camera and Computer

Steps for physically connecting the camera to the computer.

Transferring Images to Computer

How to import images from the camera to the computer.

Safely Disconnecting Camera

Proper procedure for safely disconnecting the camera from the computer.

Launching MediaImpression Software

How to launch the bundled software.

Eye-Fi Card Precautions

Safety and usage notes for Eye-Fi cards.

Eye-Fi Card Setup

How to configure the camera for wireless image transfer via Eye-Fi.

9 Appendix

Function Availability by Shooting Mode

Table showing function availability across different shooting modes.

Camera Message Guide

Lists common camera messages and their descriptions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common problems and their solutions.

Default Camera Settings Reference

Lists factory default settings for various camera functions.

World Time City List

A table of cities and their video output formats for initial setup.

Optional Camera Accessories

List of available accessories for the camera.

Main Camera Specifications

Technical details and specifications of the camera.

Warranty Policy Information

Information regarding the camera's warranty terms and conditions.

Related product manuals

Pentax X90 User Manual

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers:

Pentax X90 Specifications

Summary

Regarding Camera Usage and Safety

Copyright and Usage Rights

Trademark Information

Product Registration

Using Your Pentax Camera Safely

General Camera Information

Battery Charger and AC Adapter Safety

Battery Safety and Handling

Child Safety Precautions

Camera Handling and Maintenance

Pre-Use Camera Preparation

Battery and Charger Care

Carrying and Usage Precautions

Camera Cleaning Procedures

Camera Storage Guidelines

Additional Handling Precautions

Viewing Images on a Computer

Computer Setup for Image Transfer

Connecting Camera to Computer

Wireless LAN Image Transfer

Camera Features Overview

Intuitive Capture and Playback

Portrait Photography Features

Adding Decorative Frames

Calendar View for Images

Advanced Movie Recording Functions

In-Camera Image Management

Package Contents and Part Identification

Package Contents

Camera Parts Identification

Operating Part Identification

Monitor Information Display

Display Guide Indications

Histogram Usage for Image Analysis

Understanding Image Brightness

Understanding Image Contrast

1 Getting Started

Attaching Lens Cap and Strap

Powering the Camera On

Installing the SD Memory Card

Camera Power Management

Initial Camera Setup

Viewfinder Diopter Adjustment

Battery Information and Capacity

Image Storage and Recording Times

Battery Level Indicator Guide

SD Memory Card Usage Precautions

SD Memory Card Handling Precautions

Recordable Image Capacity

Camera Startup and Memory Status

SD Memory Card Status Check

Initiating Playback Mode

Initial Camera Settings Configuration

Setting the Display Language

2 Common Operations

Understanding Camera Button Functions

Configuring Camera Functions via Menus

Switching Between Capture and Playback Modes

Camera Menu Reference

Rec. Mode Menu Options

Setting Menu Options

3 Taking Pictures

Capturing Still Images

Selecting Shooting Modes

Choosing Shooting Modes by Situation

Various Shooting Techniques

Exposure Adjustment Guide

Configuring Shooting Functions

Movie Recording Procedures

Saving Camera Settings

Still Picture Capture Techniques

Proper Camera Holding Technique

Camera Shooting Mode Features

Instant Review and Blink Detection

Face Detection Functionality