SEARS KS Super

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MADE DIRECTLY FROM A MANUAL
Feb. 2010

CONGRATULATIONS

You have just purchased a fine camera that will give you many years of picture-taking pleasure. The KS SUPER is a 35 mm SLR camera which assures you of superb optics, outstanding mechanical performance and reliability which will justify your choice for years to come.
 

Before using your KS SUPER.....
Please read this instruction booklet carefully and familiarize yourself with the equipment and its features thoroughly. Your pleasure in using your KS SUPER will be greater if you know your camera thoroughly.
 
 

1. NOMENCLATURE ...... 2

2. SPECIFICATIONS ...... 4

3. ATTACHING THE VIEWFINDER CAP AND STRAP ...... 6

4. CHANGING LENSES ...... 7

5. INSERTING THE BATTERIES ...... 8

6. INSERTING THE FILM ...... 9

7. SETTING THE FILM SPEED ...... 11

8. INDICATORS IN THE VIEWFINDER OF THE KS SUPER ...... 12

9. AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY ...... 12

10. F-STOP NUMBER GUIDE ...... 14

1 1. HOLDING THE CAMERA ...... 14

12. FOCUSING ...... 15

13. REWINDING THE FILM ...... 16

14. EXPOSURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM ...... 17

15. FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY ...... 18

16. USING OTHER FLASH UNITS ...... 19

17. USING THE SELF-TIMER AND VIEWFINDER CAP ...... 20

18. USING THE AUTO WINDER ...... 21

19. DEPTH OF FIELD ...... 21

20. PROPER CARE OF YOUR CAMERA ...... 22

NOMENCLATURE

SPECIFICATIONS

TYPE ............35 mm SLR with focal plane shutter and automatic electronic exposure control.

FILM FORMAT AND SIZE OF FRAME .........35 mm film- 24 x 36 mm

LENS MOUNT ............ "K" mount

STANDARD LENSES ..................... 50 mm AUTO Sears f/2.0

SHUTTER ............... Vertically moving electronically-controlled metal focal plane shutter with speeds
                                    from 1 to 1/500 sec. (auto), B. X.
 

SELF TIMER ........................Operating delay of approx. 10 sees. Operation indicated by red LED light.

VIEWFINDER ...................Field of view 90% vertically and horizontally. Viewing magnification 0.88X
                                              (with standard 50 mm f/1.4 lens)

INDICATIONS IN THE VIEWFINDER ................. Overexposure, correct exposure, underexposure,
                                                                                     camera-shake warning, dedicated flash ready.

FOCUSING ...............................Split-image spot in microprism band

EXPOSURE METER  ..................TTL full open metering for center-weighted average light reading with
                                                         automatic exposure coupled to f stops.

EXPOSURE COUPLING RANGE ................. EV 5 - 17 (ASA 100 film with standard 50 mm f/1.4 lens)

FILM SPEED RANGE ............................... ASA 12 - 3200

FLASH TERMINAL .......................... X contact

ACCESSORY SHOE ........................ Hot shoe (with dedicated flash ready signal contact) and flash synchro terminal.

EXPOSURE ADJUSTMENT ................... Exposure adjustment system (+2 to -2 in 1/3 steps)

FILM ADVANCE .............................. Single stroke film advance lever with 135 degree winding angle (35degree stand-off) 
                                                                 Automatic advance possible by mounting Sears, Auto winder #7356.

EXPOSURE COUNTER ................... Additive, automatic resetting

FILM REWIND ................................ By film rewind crank system

MIRROR ................................ Quick return mirror

BACK COVER OPENING SYSTEM .............. Hinged cover, opened by pulling up Film Rewind Knob.

POWER SOURCE ....................................... One CR-1 /3N 3V Lithium battery    This is one battery, as long as two of the smaller batteries.
            (Mallory-Duracell DL-1 /3N or equivalent)
            (Two SR-44 1.55V Silver Oxide batteries- Mallory
            MS76, Eveready S76 or equivalent, or two LR-44 Alkaline Manganese batteries
            can also be used on this camera.)

DIMENSIONS ................ 136(W) x 86(H) x 50(D) mm (Body only) (5.4" x3.4" x 2.0")

WEIGHT (B0DY AND LENS) ................... 21.10 0z.
 

ATTACHING THE VIEWFINDER CAP AND STRAP

Viewfinder Cap For instructions on how to use the Viewfinder Cap, read the section on Self-Timer Photography and Usage of the Viewfinder Cap. (Fig. 1 )

1. Slip the Viewfinder Cap on to the strap. (Fig. 2)

2. Put the Strap Eyelet and adjust it to the correct length. (Fig. 3)
 
 

CHANGING LENSES

To remove the lens from the camera.

Keep the Lens Release Lever pressed in, and turn the lens in the direction of the arrow counterclockwise. (Fig. 4)

To mount the lens on the camera

1. Line up the red dot on the lens mount with the matching red dot on the camera body, or alternatively, match the red ( ~ ) mark on the Depth of Field Scale to the red dot on the camera body. (Fig. 5) 2. When the lens has engaged, turn it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks into place clockwise. (Fig. 6)

* For convenience when mounting the lens in the dark, you can line up the Lens Locator Node with the Lens Release Lever.

* Since the body cap has the same mount as the lens. You can remove or mount lens cap in the same way as the lens.
 

INSERTING THE BATTERIES

The exposure meter and shutter of this camera are powered by a battery, so it is important to insert the battery correctly for proper operation. 

1. Remove the Battery Compartment Cover by turning it counterclockwise with a coin. (Fig. 7) 2. Place the CR-1/3N Lithium battery (packed with the camera) as shown in the illustration in the battery holder of the Battery Compartment Cover. (Fig. 8A)

Replacement Batteries

a) One Duracell DL-1 /3NB Lithium battery or equivalent; life span about 12 months under normal use... OR b) Two Duracell MS-76 Silver Oxide batteries or equivalent; life span about 12 months under normal use  (Fig. 8B)... OR c) Two LR44 Alkaline batteries or equivalent; life span about 6 months under normal use. (Fig. 8B)

* Since dirt or skin oils may cause a bad contact, wipe the battery clean with a dry cloth before inserting it.
* When your camera is not used for a long period of time, remove the battery.
* Generally, in cold conditions, the voltage of the battery decreases and this will impair the functioning of the shutter and
exposure meter. In these cases, either warm up the battery or keep a spare set warm in your pocket ready to insert just before shooting.
* The camera will NOT operate if:
    a) The battery is inserted incorrectly.
    b) The battery is dead or low.
    c) You failed to insert a battery.
    If the camera does not operate, always check your batteries.
 

INSERTING THE FILM

(Always avoid direct sunlight when inserting the film.)

1. Pull up the Film Rewind Knob until the Back Cover snaps open. (Fig. 9) 2. Insert the film in the Film Chamber and push the Film Rewind Knob down to its former position. (Fig. 10)

3. Insert the film leader into the slit on the Film Take-up Spool.  (Fig. 11 ) 4. Advance the film, making sure that the sprocket holes on the film are fully engaged on the Sprocket Teeth. (Fig. 12)

5. Close and press the Back Cover firmly to lock it. Unfold the Film Rewind Crank and turn it gently in the direction of the arrow until the slack in the film has been taken up. (Fig. 13)

6. Advance the film and press the Shutter Release Button a few times until the number "1" appears in the Exposure Counter. As you advance the Film Advance Lever, the Film Rewind Knob rotates indicating that the film is properly advancing. (Fig. 14)
 
 
 * When advancing the film during film loading, it is more convenient to set the Shutter Speed Dial to X to avoid a slow shutter release action. Remember to set the Shutter Speed Dial back to A (Auto) after the film has been inserted.

* In cold conditions, the film leader may become hard and brittle. Warm the leader in your hands before insertion.
 

SETTING THE FILM SPEED

The film speed is the basic element for determining the exposure, so please be sure to set the film speed correctly. The film speed or ASA/DIN is listed on the film box. 1. Pull the Film Speed Indicator outer ring up, and set it against the film speed number you are using. (Fig. 15) For example, if the film speed is ASA 100, set the indicator on the Film Speed Dial to 100.

INDICATORS IN THE VIEWFINDER OF THE KS SUPER

1. Matte Field 2. Microprism-image Band 3. Split-image Spot 4. Overexposure Indication 5. Correct Exposure Indication 6. Underexposure Indication 7. Dedicated Flash Ready Signal 8. Camera Shake Warning Light (When light blinks)

AE (AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE) PHOTOGRAPHY

This camera is specially designed for AE (automatic exposure) photography. Simply set the f-stop number, and the shutter speed is adjusted automatically to give you the correct exposure.
 

1. Set the A on the Shutter Speed Dial against the Shutter Speed Index Line. (Fig. 16) 2. Move the F-Stop Ring to set the desired f-stop number against the central index line. (Fig. 17) (Generally F5.6 or 8 outdoors, F2 or 2.8 indoors ASA 1 DO/DIN 21 film)

3. Look through the viewfinder and press the Shutter Release Button halfway. If the exposure is correct, the green LED light on the right side of the (O) lights up. (Fig. 18)   4. When the green LED light blinks on and off, it indicates camera shake warning (a shutter speed of less than 1/50 sec.). If this happens, you should select another f-stop number (a lower number). If the green LED light still blinks after changing the f-stop number, use a flash unit or tripod. (Fig. 19)

5. If the red LED light in the viewfinder lights up against either the + or the - sign, the exposure is incorrect, and you should select another f-stop until the green LED light lights up. If the red LED light remains lit, such as in very dark conditions, use a flash unit. (Fig. 20)

F-STOP NUMBER GUIDE
 

HOLDING THE CAMERA

Holding the camera correctly when shooting is very important.

1. The camera should be positioned on the palm of your left hand so that you can use your fingers to turn the Focusing Ring of the lens easily. 2. The index finger of your right hand should rest lightly on the Shutter Release Button, while your right hand holds the camera body lightly. 3. Your right arm should be in a comfortable position. 4. Keep your left arm resting lightly against your body, and the camera should just touch your forehead when you look through the viewfinder. * It is important to shoot with the correct body posture, to avoid blurred or tilted shots.

FOCUSING

Look through the viewfinder to compose your picture and focus by turning the Focusing Ring. You can focus either by using the center Split-image Spot or the Microprism Image Band that surrounds the center circle. Split-image Focusing When the split image in the Split-image Spot forms a single image, the subject is in focus. (Fig. 22) Microprism Focusing When the subject loses its "shimmering" effect and becomes very sharp, the subject is in focus. (Fig. 23)

REWINDING THE FILM

(Always avoid direct sunlight when unloading the film). After the last picture on the roll of film has been taken, rewind the film. 1. Push-in the Film Rewind Release Button on the bottom of the camera, and it will remain locked into position. (Fig. 24)   2. Unfold the Film Rewind Crank and turn it in the direction of the arrow. When the film has been completely rewound, the tension of the Film Rewind Crank is released and it will revolve freely. (Fig. 25)

3. Pull up the Film Rewind Knob to its fullest extent and the Back Cover will open. (Fig. 26) Remove the film, push the Film Rewind Knob back into position and close the Back Cover. * Never open the Back Cover during rewinding, as light will get in and ruin your film. * If you wind the film beyond the set number of frames, the Film Wind Lever may get stuck midway and the Film Rewind Button cannot be locked in the down position. If this should happen, I rewind the film by keeping the Film Rewind Button pressed down with your finger.

EXPOSURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM

According to shooting conditions, the camera may be affected more by the background light than the light of the subject itself. This will result in under (or over) exposed pictures. In these cases, you should use the Exposure Adjustment system. You can also use the system when you wish to create a deliberate effect of over (or under) exposure. 1. Turn the Film Exposure Adjustment Dial to set the required number against the Exposure Adjustment Index Line. (Fig. 27)

* The Exposure Adjustment Dial can be set to click stop positions (1/3 steps) between the numbers indicated. Be sure to set it back to the 0 position after use.
 

FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

The Sears # 8025 dedicated AUTO/Thyristor electronic flash is available for use with this camera. When using this specially designed flash unit, you can leave the Shutter Speed Dial setting on A (Auto). Also, when the flash unit is fully charged, the red LED light in the viewfinder lights up, so that you do not have to take your eye away from the viewfinder eyepiece.

(Note - This only occurs when you are using the # 8025 flash). Using the specially designed flash unit.

(Webmaster) - A Ricoh brand flash may also operate in the same function.
 

1. Attach the flash unit to the Camera Hot Shoe. (Fig. 28)

2. Set the A (Auto) on the Shutter Speed Dial against the Index Line. (Fig. 29)

3. Set the f-stop to the correct exposure setting for the flash unit. (Fig. 30) For subject which can be taken by automatic flash photography, the flash unit will automatically control the amount of light to give the correct exposure.

4. Turn on the power source switch on the flash unit. When the flash unit is fully charged, the red LED Flash Ready Signal in the viewfinder lights up, and the Shutter Speed is automatically synchronized to 1/100 sec. (Fig. 31 )
 
 

5. Press the Shutter Release Button to take the picture.

     * Refer to the instructions with the flash unit for detailed operating instructions.

     * Do not use "DEDICATED" flash units designed for other brand cameras, as this will cause incorrect exposure
        or may damage the camera's circuitry.

Using flash units other than the Sears DEDICATED AUTO/ Thyristor (# 8025)

1. Set the Shutter Speed Dial to X. (Fig. 32)

    * With automatic flash units, set the F-stop number designated for automatic flash photography.

    * The flash units have a convenient Quick Reference. Exposure

2. Table which can be used to set the proper F-stop number at specific distances.

    * When using other flash units, please follow the instructions for that flash unit.

    * With a non-dedicated flash, the flash ready signal in the viewfinder will not operate.
 

SELF-TIMER PHOTOGRAPHY AND USAGE OF THE VIEWFINDER CAP
 

The self-timer enables you to include yourself in your own photographs for commemorative occasions etc.

1. After advancing the film, press the Self-Timer Button (Fig. 33).
 
 

2. The Self-Timer Indicator Light will pulsate, and about 10 seconds later, the shutter will be released. (Fig. 34)
 

3. If you wish to cancel the self-timer once it has started operating, set the Shutter Speed Dial to L or B.
 

* If the film has not been advance, the self-timer will not operate.

Viewfinder Cap

When using the self-timer with the A (Auto) setting, to prevent light from entering the viewfinder eyepiece and causing incorrect exposure, use the Viewfinder Cap attached to the strap to cover the viewfinder eyepiece. (Fig. 35)
 

USING THE AUTO WINDER(#7356)

If you attach the Sears Autowinder to this camera, the film can be advanced automatically. You can also take continuous shots at up to 2 frames per second. (Fig. 36)

* Before attaching the winder, wipe the contact points on both the camera and the winder with a dry cloth.

(Webmaster - A Ricoh brand winder may also work with this camera.)

DEPTH OF FIELD

When you focus on a specific subject, distance in front of and be hind the subject will be acceptably sharp in your picture.

This area is called the "Depth of field". You can judge the depth of field in the following way.

1. The Depth of Field Scale is indicated on each lens.   For instance when the camera-to-subject distance is 10 ft and 7 the f-stop number is f16, the area within the two f/16 points on either side of the "infinity" mark, will be in sharp focus (about 7 ft to 26 ft). (Fig. 37)

PROPER CARE OF YOUR CAMERA

    * Never touch the surface of the lens with your fingers.

    * If the lens is dirty, either use a blower to blow the dust away or wipe it gently with a soft cloth.

    * Do not use chemically-treated eye glass tissue to clean the lens.

    * Camera malfunction can be caused by shock, humidity, salt air etc. After using the camera at the beach
        or in places that use chemicals, wipe it carefully.

    * Take care not to expose your camera to sudden changes in temperature, as this may cause camera malfunction.

    * Do not expose your camera for a long period of time in extremely high temperatures, such as in the back
        of your car or on a beach, as this may cause camera malfunction.

    * When using a tripod, do not try to force a long screw into the socket.
        (The screw length should be less than 5.7 mm, JIS 5.5 mm).

    * Do not place the camera near equipment that has strong magnetism such as television or radio.

    * Remove the battery before storing the camera, and keep it in a place free of dust and humidity.

    * Do not attempt to disassemble or repair your camera yourself. If service is necessary, bring it to the nearest Sears store.