Pentax ME Super (1984)

Introduction

The Pentax ME Super is a compact 35mm SLR with aperture-priority automation and manual override.

Camera Overview

Film Type: 35mm

Lens Mount: Pentax K

Shutter: 4s – 1/2000s, aperture-priority mode

Viewfinder: SLR with match-needle meter

Getting Started

Load 35mm film cartridge:

Open the Camera Back

Lift the rewind crank (located on the top left of the camera).

Pull it upward gently until the back of the camera pops open.

Insert the Film Cartridge

Place the film cartridge into the left-side chamber.

Push the rewind crank down to secure the cartridge in place.

Thread the Film Leader

Pull the film leader (the tapered end) across the film gate to the take-up spool on the right side.

Insert the leader into one of the slots on the spool.

Advance the Film

Gently turn the film advance lever to confirm that the leader is held securely by the spool.

The teeth of the sprocket wheel (between cartridge and spool) must engage the perforations along the film edges.

Close the Camera Back

Swing the back shut until it clicks closed.

Prepare the Film for Use

Advance the film two full frames by:

Operating the film advance lever.

Pressing the shutter release button between each advance.

Watch that the rewind crank turns as you advance. This confirms the film is moving properly.

Set Film Speed (ASA/ISO)

Lift and rotate the outer ring of the shutter speed dial (on top, right side).

Align the film speed number (from your film box, e.g., ISO 200 or 400) with the index mark.

Ready for Shooting

The frame counter (located near the film advance lever) should now indicate “1.”

Your camera is loaded and ready to capture photographs.

Shooting

Frame subject; focus manually.

Use aperture-priority or manual exposure.

Press shutter; advance film.

Film Rewinding & Unloading Instructions

Reach End of Roll

When the film advance lever will no longer move, the roll is fully exposed.

Do not force the advance lever.

Prepare for Rewind

Press the rewind release button located on the bottom of the camera.

This disengages the film advance mechanism.

Rewind the Film

Lift the rewind crank (top left of camera).

Turn the crank clockwise (in the direction of the arrow).

Continue rewinding until you feel tension release and the crank turns freely — this means the film leader has cleared the take-up spool.

Open the Camera Back

Pull up on the rewind crank shaft to pop open the camera back.

Remove the Cartridge

Take out the film cartridge.

Send it for processing or store properly.

Maintenance & Modern Notes

Works with K-mount lenses.

Keep lens, mirror, and meter clean.

Digital scanning recommended for negatives.