What Kind of Battery Does a Pentax K1000 Use?

Pentax introduced its K1000 single-lens reflex film camera in 1976, and sold more than 3 million units before ending the model's production in 1997. Because of its basic controls, ease of use and low price, the K1000 was a popular entry-level camera for photography students and novice photographers. The camera requires a battery for full operation.

The Pentax K1000 uses 35mm film and accepts Pentax K-mount and compatible lenses. Its shutter speeds range from 1/1000 of a second to 1 second, with a bulb setting for longer exposures. It measures 5.6 inches by 3.7 inches by 1.9 inches, and weighs 18 1/2 oz. without a battery.

The K1000 has minimal power needs. It has a manual shutter release and manual film advance. It requires one 1.5v battery to power its through-the-lens exposure meter.

Pentax recommends a 1.5-volt LR44 alkaline battery or a SR44 silver-oxide battery, or an equivalent.

As of May 2011, Energizer, Duracell, Panasonic and other manufacturers market LR44 and SR44 batteries. A manufacturer's model number may differ from LR44 or SR44, but the battery's packaging indicates it is LR44- or SR44-compatible.

The K1000's battery chamber is located on the bottom face of the camera. Use a coin to screw out the chamber plug and insert a battery with its positive pole facing out. Use the coin to screw in the chamber plug.

Set the K1000's ASA/ISO dial to 100 and its shutter speed dial to B. Look through the camera's viewfinder. The meter will point upward if the battery has sufficient power.

Take photographs with the K1000 without a battery. All of the camera's functions except the exposure meter operate normally without a battery. Either use a handheld light meter to determine exposure, or estimate the appropriate aperture-shutter speed combination for the scene from experience.

Remove the battery from the K1000 if you plan to store the camera for a long period of time.