Batteries for a Pentax K1000 resemble a small, flat coin.
The sole battery in a 1970s-era film-based Pentax K1000 camera powers only the light meter -- unlike modern cameras that utilize an internal battery to operate a time/date-stamp feature and a separate battery to power the camera. Without a battery, the Pentax K1000's shutter, film advance, film rewind and focusing adjustments still function. The photographer must estimate the exposure when the light meter no longer functions, due to an expired battery.
Battery Options
Two battery types fit the Pentax K1000, a single-lens reflex camera. Use either a 1.5 volt alkaline LR44 or a 1.5 volt silver-oxide SR44, according to the Pentax K1000 owner's manual. Both battery types look similar to a slender American nickel coin.
Installing the Battery
Install one disk-shaped battery in the base of the camera. Use a coin to unscrew the threads of the battery chamber. Lay the battery in the recessed area with the positive polarity facing out. A "+" symbol on the battery indicates the positive side. Lay the battery door over the battery and screw the door back into place using a coin.
Finding Batteries
Production of the Pentax K1000 ceased in 1997 after a 21-year run. Since the camera no longer graces the shelves of camera shops as a new product, the batteries have become scarce. You can find batteries to operate the K1000 at jewelry stores, since the LR44 and SR44 commonly power wrist watches. Speciality battery shops may also offer the 1.5 volt batteries.
Battery Test
The Pentax K1000 does not have a low-battery warning indicator. To know if the battery still has power, manually set the camera's ASA setting to 100 and the shutter speed to the bulb setting indicated with a "B" by using the dial on the top of the camera. Aim the camera's lens at a bright subject, such as the sky. The needle on the meter located on the right side of the screen inside the camera's viewfinder should rise to the top, near the "+" symbol. Lower the camera to a darker subject and watch the light-meter needle dip lower on the scale, towards the "-" symbol. To save battery power, keep a lens cap on the lens when not using the camera.
Tags: Pentax K1000, battery power, battery types, light meter