E INSTRUCTION MANUAL 9222-2778-11 MM-A208
BEFORE YOU BEGIN Thank you for purchasing this Minolta digital camera. Please take the time to read through this instruction manual so you can enjoy all the features of your new camera. This manual contains information regarding products introduced before September, 2002. To obtain compatibility information for products released after this date, contact a Minolta Service Facility listed on the back cover of this manual. Check the packing list before using this product.
FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE Read and understand all warnings and cautions before using this product. WARNING Using batteries improperly can cause them to leak harmful solutions, overheat, or explode which may damage property or cause personal injury. Do not ignore the following warnings. • • • • • • • • • • 4 Only use the batteries specified in this instruction manual. Do not install the batteries with the polarity (+/–) reversed. Do not use batteries which show wear or damage.
• Use only the specified AC adapter within the voltage range indicated on the adapter unit. An inappropriate adapter or current may cause damage or injury through fire or electric shock. • Do not disassemble this product. Electric shock may cause injury if a high voltage circuit inside the product is touched. • Immediately remove the batteries or unplug the AC adapter and discontinue use if the camera is dropped or subjected to an impact in which the interior, especially the flash unit, is exposed.
CAUTION • Do not use or store the product in a hot or humid environment such as the glove compartment or trunk of a car. It may damage the product and batteries which may result in burns or injuries caused by heat, fire, explosion, or leaking battery fluid. • If batteries are leaking, discontinue use of the product. • The camera temperature rises with extended periods of use. Care should be taken to avoid burns.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Names of parts ....................................................................................................................................12 Camera body ...........................................................................................................................12 Data panel ...............................................................................................................................15 Monitor display – recording mode ................................
Advanced recording .............................................................................................................................40 Display controls – recording mode ..........................................................................................40 Pro-auto button ........................................................................................................................42 Spot-AE lock button................................................................................
Contrast compensation ...............................................................................................76 Color-saturation compensation ...................................................................................77 Filter ............................................................................................................................77 A short guide to photography ...............................................................................................................
Ordering an index print..........................................................................................................115 Canceling a DPOF print order ...............................................................................................115 Copying images .....................................................................................................................116 Setup mode ........................................................................................................
Disconnecting the camera from the computer ......................................................................142 Windows 98 / 98 second edition..............................................................................142 Windows ME, 2000 Professional, and XP ................................................................142 Macintosh..................................................................................................................143 Troubleshooting144 When using filters ............
NAMES OF PARTS CAMERA BODY * This camera is a sophisticated optical instrument. Care should be taken to keep these surfaces clean. Please read the care and storage instructions in the back of this manual (p. 148). Data panel (p. 15) Digital-subject-program button (p. 32) Built-in flash (p. 30) Focal-length index Zooming ring1 Pro-auto button (p. 42) Strap eyelet (p. 18) Control dial Lens* Shutter-release button Focusing ring (p. 43) Card-slot door (p.
Recording mode (p. 26) Playback mode (p. 34) Movie mode (p. 102) Setup mode (p. 118) Data-transfer mode (p. 132) Display mode switch Display information button (p. 40, 36) Dial release Accessory shoe Eyepiece sensors* (p. 40) Main switch/Mode dial Electronic viewfinder* (EVF) (p. 31) Spot-AE lock button (p. 43) Menu button Access lamp Controller LCD monitor* (p. 16) Magnification button Remote-control terminal cover (p. 57) Battery-chamber lock (p. 20) QV/ Delete button (p.
Exposure modes (p. 52) Metering modes (p. 51) Drive modes (p. 58) White balance (p. 67) Memory (p. 50) Camera sensitivity (p. 70) Function button Macro release (p. 47) Function dial (p. 48) Diopter-adjustment dial (p. 31) Flash sync terminal (p. 72) Focus-mode (AF/MF) button (p. 43) Tripod socket Digital-effects Controller (p.
DATA PANEL Located on the top of the camera body, the data panel shows the status of the camera. All icons have been shown for clarity. Digital-subject-program icons (p. 32) Frame counter (p. 84) Digital-subject-program indicators (p. 32) Battery-condition indicator (p. 21) Exposure-mode indicators (p. 52) White-balance indicators (p. 67) Camera-sensitivity indicator (p. 70) Flash-compensation indicator (p. 74) Red-eye reduction indicator (p. 88) Wireless/Remote flash indicator (p.
MONITOR DISPLAY – RECORDING MODE 10. Exposure-compensation display (p. 74) 11. White-balance indicator (p. 67) 12. Exposure-mode/Digital-subject-program indicator (p. 52, 32) 1. Microphone indicator 2. Flash-mode indicator (p. 88) 3. Flash signal (p. 30) 4. Mode indicator 5. Flash-compensation display (p. 74) 6. Filter display (p. 77) 7. Color-saturation-compensation display (p. 77) 8. Contrast-compensation display (p. 76) 9. Sharpness display (p. 99) 13. Metering-mode indicator (p. 51) 14.
MONITOR DISPLAY – QUICK VIEW & PLAYBACK MODE Image size (p. 84) Image quality (p. 85) Mode indicator Time of capture Date of capture Frame number/ total number of images Print indicator (p. 114) Lock indicator (p. 111) Voice-memo indicator (p. 101) Mode indicator Image size (p. 84) Image quality (p.85) Histogram Date of capture Shutter speed Aperture value White-balance setting (p. 67) Sensitivity setting (p. 70) Degree of exposure compensation (p. 74) Folder name (p.
GETTING UP AND RUNNING This section covers the preparation of the camera. This includes the changing of batteries and memory card as well as the use of external power supplies. ATTACHING THE CAMERA STRAP Attach the camera strap to the strap eyelets as shown. Always keep the camera strap around your neck in the event that you drop the camera. The neck strap is made with leather. Water may stain the strap.
ATTACHING THE LENS HOOD The lens hood is used to control stray light from entering the lens and causing flare. When using the camera under bright light, the use of the lens hood is recommended. The lens hood should not be used with the built-in flash as it can cause a shadow. To mount the lens hood, align the rectangular dimple on the rim of the hood with the focal-length index on the top of the lens barrel (1).
INSTALLING AND CHANGING BATTERIES This digital camera uses four AA-size nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries. When using new Ni-MH batteries, fully charge them before their initial use. When replacing batteries, check that the mode dial is in the off position. Open the battery-chamber door by moving the battery-chamber lock to the open position. Insert the batteries. Make sure the positive and negative battery terminals are orientated as illustrated on the diagram in the battery chamber.
BATTERY CONDITION INDICATOR This camera is equipped with an automatic battery-condition indicator. When the camera is on, the battery-condition indicator appears on the data panel and monitors. The monitor icon will change from white to red when battery power is low. If the data panel and monitors are blank, the batteries may be dead or installed incorrectly. Full-battery – the batteries are fully charged. This icon is displayed for five seconds on the monitors when the camera is turned on.
EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES (SOLD SEPARATELY) The AC Adapter allows the camera to be powered from an electrical household outlet. The AC Adapter is recommended when the camera is interfaced with a computer or during periods of heavy use. AC Adapter model AC-1L is for use in North America, Japan, and Taiwan, and AC-2L is for use in all other areas. The External High-power Battery Pack Kit EBP-100 is a portable power source and significantly extends the operating time of the camera.
1 2 3 4 5 Open the card-slot door in the direction indicated (1). To eject a memory card, lift (2) then press (3) the card-eject lever. The card can now be pulled out. Take care when removing the card as it becomes hot with use. Insert a memory card into the card slot until the card-eject lever pops out (4). Insert the card so the face is toward the front of the camera. Always push the card in straight. Never force the card. If the card does not fit, check that it is orientated correctly.
SETTING THE DATE AND TIME After initially inserting a memory card and battery, the camera’s clock and calendar must be set. When images are recorded, the image data is saved with the date and time of recording. Depending on the region, the menu language may also have to be set. To change the language, see the camera notes on the following page. Turn the mode dial on the top of the camera to the setup position. The camera will turn on and the setup menu will be displayed. Navigating the menu is simple.
Use the right controller key to highlight the advanced 2 tab at the top of the menu. Setup Reset default Adv.2 – EVF autoSwtch Auto EVF/LCD Date/Time set – Date format MM/DD/YYYY Basic Adv.1 Video output NTSC Power save 1 min. Cust. Use the down key to highlight the date/time-set menu option. Press the right key. “Enter” will appear on the right side of the menu. Advanced 2 section Press the central button to display the date/time setting screen.
BASIC RECORDING SETTING THE CAMERA TO RECORD IMAGES AUTOMATICALLY While holding in the dial release (1), turn the mode dial to stillimage recording; the electronic viewfinder (EVF) and LCD monitor will activate. Press the pro-auto button (2) to reset the programmed and automatic functions. 2 All camera operations are now fully automatic. The autofocus, exposure, and imaging systems will work together to bring professional results effortlessly.
BASIC RECORDING OPERATION 2 1 Turn the mode dial to the recording position (1). Use the zooming ring to frame the subject (2). The effect of the zoom is immediately displayed in the viewfinder (EVF) and LCD monitor. Place the subject within the focus frame. • For off-center subjects use the focus-lock function (p. 28). • Make sure the subject is within the focus range of the lens: 0.5m (1.6ft) – ∞. For subjects closer than 0.5m, use the macro function (p. 47).
FOCUS LOCK The focus-lock function is used when the subject is off-center and outside the focus frame. Focus lock may also be used when a special focusing situation prevents the camera from focusing on the subject. Place the subject within the focus frame. Press and hold the shutter-release button partway down. • The focus signals will indicate that the focus is locked. The shutter speed and aperture value will change from white to black indicating the exposure is locked.
FOCUS SIGNALS This digital camera has a quick, accurate autofocusing system. The focus signals in the lower right corner of the EVF and LCD monitor indicate the focus status. For more information on autofocus modes see p. 83. White focus indicator – focus confirmed. Red focus indicator – the subject is too close or a special situation is preventing the AF system from focusing. The shutter can be released. When the AF system cannot focus, the focus is set between 5 m and infinity (16.4 ft and ∞).
USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH In low-light conditions or indoors, the flash is needed to illuminate the subject and reduce blurring through camera shake. The flash can also be used as a fill light in direct sunlight to soften harsh shadows. Always remove the lens hood when using the built-in flash; the hood may cast a shadow if mounted. To use the flash, simply pull up the unit by the tabs on each side.
HANDLING THE CAMERA While using the electronic viewfinder (EVF) or LCD monitor, grip the camera firmly with your right hand while supporting the body with the palm of your left hand. Keep your elbows at your side and your feet shoulder-width apart to hold the camera steadily. The electronic viewfinder can be tilted between 0° to 90°. Simply grip the finder between your fingers and move it to the position desired. Always store the camera with finder down against the body.
DIGITAL-SUBJECT-PROGRAM BUTTON 1 The digital-subject-program button (1) optimizes the camera’s performance for various conditions and subjects. Exposure, white-balance, and image-processing systems work in unison for beautiful results. Pressing the digital-subject-program button cycles through the modes: portrait, sport action, sunset, night portrait, text, and the original exposure mode. A pointer will indicate the active subject program. The subject program will remain in effect until it is changed.
While camera performance is optimized for each shooting condition, some changes can be made to camera settings with subject programs. The autofocus mode can be changed (p. 83). The sports action mode uses continuous AF, the other modes use single AF. The Digital Effects Controller can be used to adjust image brightness, contrast, and color (p. 73). White balance can be changed in all modes except sunset and night portrait (p. 67). Sharpness can be changed in the sport action, sunset, and text modes (p. 99).
BASIC PLAYBACK Images can be viewed in the Quick View or playback modes. This section covers the basic functions in both modes. The playback mode has additional menu functions, see page 106. To view images from the playback mode, turn the mode dial to the playback position. To view images from the recording or movie recording modes, press the Quick View / delete button. SINGLE-FRAME PLAYBACK AND HISTOGRAM DISPLAY Mode indicator Image size (p. 84) Image quality (p.
VIEWING IMAGES When in the Quick view or playback mode, use the left/right keys of the controller to scroll through the images on the memory card. To view the histogram of a still image, press the up key. Press the down key to return to single-frame playback. To return to a recording mode from Quick View, press the menu button. Controller QV/Delete button DELETING SINGLE IMAGES The displayed image can be deleted. Once deleted, an image cannot be recovered.
CHANGING THE QUICK VIEW & PLAYBACK DISPLAY In the center of the display switch, the display-information button controls the display format. Each time the button is pressed, the display cycles through to the next format: full display, image only, index playback. Full display Image only Index playback In index playback, the left/right keys of the controller will move the yellow border to the next or the previous image.
ENLARGED PLAYBACK In single-frame playback, a still image can be enlarged for closer examination. Images can be magnified between 1.2X and 4.0X in 0.2X increments. 640 X 480 size images can only be magnified between 1.2X and 2.0X. RAW and super fine images cannot be enlarged. 1 With the image to be enlarged displayed, press the magnification button (1). The degree of magnification is displayed on the monitors. Use the up/down keys of the controller to adjust the magnification.
VIEWING MOVIES Standard, Night, time-lapse, and UHS continuous-advance movies can be played back on the camera. Movie files are indicated by a icon at the bottom of the display. Standard and Night Movies are also indicated by a thumbnail of the first frame. : play Press the center of the controller to play back the file. : pause : stop 23s Press the controller to pause the movie; pressing the controller again will resume the playback. To cancel the playback, press the down key of the controller.
VIEWING IMAGES ON A TELEVISION It is possible to view camera images on your television. The camera has a video-out terminal which can be used to connect the camera to a television using the supplied AV cable. The camera is compatible with the NTSC and PAL standards. The video-output setting can be checked and set in the advanced 2 section of the setup menu (p. 118). 1. Turn off the television and the camera. 2. Insert the mini-plug end of the AV cable into the camera’s AV-out terminal. 3.
ADVANCED RECORDING This section contains detailed information on the camera’s recording functions and operation. Read the sections pertaining to your interest and need. DISPLAY CONTROLS – RECORDING MODE Located on the back of the camera, the display-mode switch and the display-information button control on which monitor the image is displayed and what information is included in the display.
In the center of the display switch, the display-information button controls what information is displayed with the live image. Each time the button is pressed, the display cycles to the next format: standard display, focus frame, real-time histogram, and live image only. The number of screens and their formats can be changed in the advanced 1 section of the setup menu (p. 118).
PRO-AUTO BUTTON 1 Simply pressing the pro-auto button (1) resets the camera to programmed and automatic functions in the still-image recording mode. The camera’s systems work together to bring professional results leaving the operator free to concentrate on aesthetic decisions. The proauto button affects functions in either the recording or movie modes (p. 105) only when the mode is in use.
SPOT-AE LOCK BUTTON The spot-AE lock button below the main dial on the back of the body locks the automatic exposure system. This function allows the exposure to be set by a specific element within the scene or a gray card outside the scene. When the spot-AE lock button is pressed and held, the spot metering circle is displayed indicating the area used for the exposure calculation; the shutter speed and aperture of the exposure will be displayed in black on the monitor.
AUTOFOCUS AREAS AND CONTROL In still-image recording mode, the controller selects the focus area used and moves the spot-focus area within the image. The two focus areas, wide focus area and spot focus point, allow flexibility over a variety of situations. The wide focus area is an array of local focus areas that work together to control focus. This system is especially effective with moving subjects or quick shooting during fast-moving events.
FLEX FOCUS POINT Once displayed, the spot focus area can be moved to any point in the image area. This Flex Focus Point is a powerful tool for off-center subjects. The Flex Focus Point cannot be used with the digital zoom (p. 46). With the spot-focus-area cross displayed, use the controller’s four-way keys (1) to move the focus point anywhere within the live image. Press the shutter-release button partway down to focus; the cross will turn red to confirm focus.
DIGITAL ZOOM The digital zoom doubles the lens magnification. The digital zoom cannot be used with RAW image quality or in movie recording. Press the magnification button (1) on the back of the camera. The effect is immediately displayed. Pressing the magnification button a second time cancels the digital zoom. The live image is enlarged on the LCD monitor and is cropped with a shaded border in the EVF. X2.0 is displayed in the monitors when the digital zoom is in effect. When using the wide focus area (p.
MACRO MODE The macro mode is used for close-up photographs of small objects. The marco mode can be used with the digital zoom to increase the close-up effect. Subject programs and movie recording can be used with the macro setting. The built-in flash cannot be used with macro mode. Align one of the arrows on the zoom ring with the arrow next to the macro switch. The lens must be zoomed to the wide-angle or telephoto position for the macro switch to engage. Slide the macro switch on the lens barrel forward.
SETTING THE FUNCTION DIAL The memory function, metering mode, exposure mode, drive mode, white balance, and camera sensitivity are controlled by the function dial. Making changes with the function dial is simple. The function dial can only be used for still photography. 1 Turn the function dial to the mode to be changed (1). While pressing the button in the center of the function dial, turn the control dial near the shutter-release button to change the mode (2).
Dial MEM PASM Display Menu P A S M DRIVE WB ISO 100, 200, 400, 800. Setting Memory registers or the setting function are selected with a special menu displayed on the monitors.
MEMORY – STORING CAMERA SETTINGS Five sets of camera settings can be saved. This saves time under frequently repeating conditions by eliminating the need to set the camera. Except for the spot AEL button, subject programs, data imprinting, voice memo, and instant playback settings, all recording-mode camera settings will be saved including the position of the Flex Focus Point, the display mode, the custom white balance setting, and changes made with the function dial and digital effects control.
To recall a setting, press the function button and highlight the memory register using the control dial. Release the function button to apply the memory settings. Memory settings can also be recalled using the digital subject program button, see page 129. Camera settings cannot be deleted from memory by turning the camera off or using the pro-auto button. They will be erased with the default function on the setup menu.
EXPOSURE MODES The four exposure modes allow extensive control over image making. Programmed AE gives carefree operation, aperture and shutter priority allow photographers to maximize exposures in different situations, and manual exposure provides complete freedom in controlling the final image. See setting the function dial section on page 48. P Program – the camera controls both the shutter speeds and aperture.
PROGRAM – P The programmed AE exposure control uses luminance and focal-length information to ensure perfect exposures. The sophisticated exposure system allows the photographer the freedom to shoot without having to worry about the technical details of exposure settings. The shutter speed and aperture values of the exposure are displayed on the monitors and data panel. The shutter speed range in program exposure mode is 8 to 1/4000 second when camera sensitivity is set to auto (p. 71).
APERTURE PRIORITY – A 2 1 The photographer selects the aperture and the camera sets the appropriate shutter speed to ensure correct exposure. When A mode is selected, the aperture value on the monitors turns blue. Turn the control dial (1) to set the desired aperture. Press the shutter-release button partway down to activate the exposure system (2); the corresponding shutter speed will be displayed. The aperture values can be changed by half stop increments between f/2.
SHUTTER PRIORITY – S 2 1 The photographer selects the shutter speed and the camera sets the appropriate aperture to ensure correct exposure. When S mode is selected, the shutter speed on the monitors turns blue. Turn the control dial (1) to set the desired shutter speed. Press the shutter-release button partway down to activate the exposure system (2); the corresponding aperture will be displayed.
MANUAL EXPOSURE – M Manual exposure mode allows individual selection of shutter speeds and apertures. This mode overrides the exposure system giving the photographer total control over the final exposure. The shutter speeds and aperture values can be changed in half stop increments. The shutter speed range in manual exposure mode is 15 to 1/2000 second including bulb when camera sensitivity is set to auto (p. 71). The camera sensitivity is set to ISO 100, but can be changed with the function dial (p. 48).
BULB EXPOSURES Bulb photographs can be taken in the manual-exposure mode (M). Exposures up to thirty seconds can be made by pressing and holding the shutter-release button. The use of a tripod and a remote cord is recommended for bulb exposures. The camera’s exposure system cannot be used to calculate bulb exposures. The use of a separate light meter is recommended. Use the control dial (1) to decrease the shutter-speed until “bulb” is displayed.
DRIVE MODES The drive modes control the rate and method images are captured. Icons indicating the selected drive mode appear on the data panel and LCD monitor and in the EVF. See setting the function dial section on page 48. Single-frame advance – to take a single image each time the shutter-release button is pressed. Bracketing – to take a series of images with differing exposure, contrast, saturation, and color.
CONTINUOUS ADVANCE Continuous-advance mode allows a series of images to be captured while holding down the shutterrelease button. Continuous advance acts like a motor drive on a film camera. The number of images that can be captured at one time depends on the image-quality and image-size setting. The maximum rate of capture is 2 fps with full-size images with manual focus in manual-exposure mode. The continuous-advance mode is set with the function dial (p. 48).
HIGH-SPEED CONTINUOUS ADVANCE High-speed continuous-advance allows a series of images to be captured rapidly. The rate of capture is approximately 3 fps with full-size images with manual focus in manual-exposure mode. The rate of capture decreases with images smaller than 2560 X 1920. The continuous-advance mode is set with the function dial (p. 48).
UHS CONTINUOUS ADVANCE UHS continuous-advance mode allows a series of 1280 X 960 images to be captured at a rate of approximately 7 frames per second; image size is changed to 640 X 480 when the digital zoom is used. The number of images that can be captured at one time depends on the image-quality setting: extra fine – 32 frames, fine – 62 frames, and standard – 100 frames. This mode cannot be used with super-fine or RAW image quality, flash illumination, or Digital Subject Programs.
BRACKETING This mode makes a three image bracket of a scene. Bracketing is a method of taking a series of images of a static subject in which each image has a slight variation in exposure. The camera is not limited to exposure brackets, but can also make contrast, saturation, and filter brackets. Only one image characteristic can be bracketed at a time. The bracketing mode is set with the function dial (p. 48). 3 1 Turn the function dial to the drive-mode position (1).
Compose the picture as described in the basic recording section (p. 27). Press the shutter-release button partway down (1) to lock the exposure and focus for the series; the camera will continue to focus during the series if set to continuous AF (p. 83). Press and hold the shutter-release button all the way down (2) to make the bracket series; three consecutive images will be captured.
INTERVAL The interval mode makes a series of still or moving images over a period of time. Similar to timelapse photography, a series of images of a slow moving event can be taken: the blossoming of a flower, the construction of a building. The built-in flash can be used. Instant playback (p. 100) is disabled. The parameters of the interval series is set up in the advanced 1 section of the recording-mode menu. Refer to the navigation section on page 80 on how to use the menu.
Confirm the memory card has enough storage capacity for the series by comparing the number of frames in the interval series with the number of recordable images displayed on the frame counter. When taking still-images, image size and quality settings can be changed to increase the number of pictures that can be saved on the memory card. Press the shutter-release button to begin the series. During the interval series, the monitors will be turned off to conserve power.
SELF-TIMER Used for self-portraits, the self-timer will delay the release of the shutter for approximately ten seconds after the shutter is released. The self-timer is set with the function dial (p. 48). With the camera on a tripod, compose the picture as described in the basic recording section (p. 27). Focus lock (p. 28) or the Flex Focus Point (p. 45) can be used with off-center subjects. Press the shutter-release button partway down (1) to lock the exposure and focus.
WHITE BALANCE White balance is the camera’s ability to make different types of lighting appear neutral. The effect is similar to selecting daylight or tungsten film, or using color compensating filters in conventional photography. When setting the white balance, “Auto” (data panel) and “AWB” (monitors) will be displayed to indicate the auto white-balance setting. An icon will be displayed on the data panel and monitors if a setting other than auto white-balance was chosen.
AUTOMATIC WHITE BALANCE The automatic white balance compensates for the color temperature of a scene. In most cases, the AUTO setting will balance the ambient light and create beautiful images, even under mixed-lighting conditions. When the built-in flash is used, the white balance is set for the color temperature of the flash. PRESET WHITE BALANCE Preset white-balance settings must be set before the image is taken. Once set, the effect is immediately visible on the monitors.
To calibrate the camera, press the function button and turn the control dial until the custom white-balance icon and “SET” appear on the data panel and red on the monitors. While holding the function button (1), use the up/down keys of the controller (2) to select one of the three memory registers. Select a white object and fill the image area with it; the object does not need to be in focus. Press the shutter-release button to calibrate the camera.
CAMERA SENSITIVITY – ISO Five settings can be selected for camera sensitivity: Auto, 100, 200, 400, and 800; the numerical values are based on an ISO equivalent. ISO is the standard used to indicate film sensitivity: the higher the number, the more sensitive the film. See setting the function dial section on page 48 to change the ISO setting. The auto setting automatically adjusts the camera sensitivity to the light conditions between ISO 100 and 200.
FLASH RANGE AND CAMERA SENSITIVITY For correct flash exposures, the subject must be within the flash range. The flash range can be extended by changing the camera sensitivity. When the camera sensitivity is set to auto, the ISO is set between ISO 100 and 200. The flash range is measured from the CCD. Because of the optical system, the flash range is not the same at the lens’ wide-angle position as it is at the telephoto position.
ATTACHING A MINOLTA ACCESSORY FLASH UNIT To extend the versatility of the camera, an accessory flash unit (sold separately) can be mounted on the camera. See page 154 for a list of compatible flash units. Always remove the accessory flash when the camera is not in use, and replace the accessory-shoe cap to protect the contacts. Slide the accessory-shoe cap off as shown. Mount the flash unit on the accessory shoe by sliding it forward until it stops.
DIGITAL EFFECTS CONTROL The Digital Effects Controller is a powerful tool. As well as being able to make adjustments to exposure, the controller can also change image contrast, color, and saturation. The effect of any change is instantly visible on the monitors before the image is captured. Since compensation is applied to the image before it is compressed and saved, image information can be maximized before leaving the scene. The digital effects controller can be used with movie recording.
EXPOSURE AND FLASH COMPENSATION The ambient light and flash exposure can be adjusted before the image is captured to make the final picture lighter or darker. Exposure can be adjusted by as much as ±2Ev in 1/3 increments (p. 79). The exposure and flash compensation will remain in effect until it has been reset. Adjustments to exposure must be set before the image is captured. When setting exposure or flash compensation, the change in Ev is shown on the data-panel aperture display and on the monitors.
Shooting tips Sometimes the camera’s exposure meter is deceived by certain conditions. Changing the exposure value can compensate for these situations. For example, a very bright scene, such as a snowy landscape or a white sandy beach, can appear too dark in the captured image. Before taking the picture, adjusting the exposure by +1 or +2 EV will result in an image with normal tonal values. In this example, the dark scene appears bright and washed-out on the LCD monitor. By decreasing the exposure by –1.
CONTRAST COMPENSATION The contrast of a scene can be adjusted within seven levels (±3) with the digital effects controller. If a scene is too contrasty, information will be lost; if a scene is flat, the image information is not optimized for the recording ability of the camera. Control over the contrast gives photographers the ability to maximize the image information at the scene. The contrast must be set before the image is captured.
COLOR-SATURATION COMPENSATION The color saturation of a scene can be adjusted within seven levels (±3) with the digital effects controller. Colors can be accented or subdued. The color saturation must be set before the image is captured. When changing the color-saturation setting, an icon will appear in the live image. The monitors will indicate if an increase (+) or decrease (–) in saturation has been made.
A SHORT GUIDE TO PHOTOGRAPHY Photography can be a rewarding pursuit. It is a broad and disciplined field that can take years to master. But the pleasure in making photographs and the joy of capturing a magical moment cannot be compared. The guide is an introduction to some basic photographic principles. The lens aperture controls not only exposure, but also depth of field; the area between the closest object in focus and the furthest object in focus.
The shutter controls not only exposure, but also the ability to stop motion. Fast shutter speeds are used in sport photography to stop action. Slow shutter speeds can be used to show the flow of motion such as water cascading over a waterfall. The use of a tripod is recommended with slow shutter speeds. The change in aperture and shutter speed is not apparent in the live image. Unlike film cameras, test photographs can be taken and immediately viewed.
NAVIGATING THE RECORDING-MODE MENU In recording mode, press the menu button (1) to activate the menu. The menu button also turns off the recording-mode menu after making settings. The four-way key of the controller (2) are used to move the cursor in the menu. Pressing the central button of the controller will enter a setting. Activate the recording-mode menu with the menu button (1). The “Basic” tab at the top of the menu will be highlighted.
Basic AF mode Image size Quality Flash mode Wireless Ch. Flash control Advanced 1 Single Continuous 2560 X 1920 1600 x 1200 1280 X 960 640 X 480 RAW Super fine Extra fine Fine Standard Fill-flash Red-eye Rear sync. Wireless 1–4 ADI flash Pre-flash TTL Manual Spot AF/AEL Mag. button Interval 1 – 10, 15, 20, 30, 45, 60 min.
ELECTRONIC KEYBOARD The electronic keyboard is used to enter text for imprinting data or for naming new folders. The keyboard automatically appears when text needs to be entered. To enter text, simply use the four-way keys of the controller to highlight the desired character and then press the central button of the controller to enter it. Entering the case key will switch between upper and lower case; the change is immediately displayed on the keyboard.
AUTOFOCUS MODES This digital camera has two autofocusing modes. The single and continuous AF are selected in the basic section of the recording-mode menu (p. 80). Single AF – for general purpose photography and static subjects. When the shutter-release button is pressed partway down, the autofocus system locks onto the subject in the focus area and will remain locked until the shutter button is released. Direct Manual focus (p. 125) can be used with single AF. Continuous AF – for moving subjects.
IMAGE SIZE Changing image size affects the number of pixels in each image. The greater the image size, the larger the file size. Choose image size based on the final use of the image – smaller images will be more suitable for web sites whereas larger sizes will produce higher quality prints. Image size must be set before the picture is taken. Changes made to image size are displayed on the data panel, EVF, and LCD monitor. Image size must be reset manually. See navigating the recording-mode menu on page 80.
IMAGE QUALITY This camera has five image quality settings: raw, super fine, extra fine, fine, and standard. Always select the desired setting before taking the picture. See navigating the recording-mode menu on page 80. Image quality controls the rate of compression, but has no effect on the number of pixels in the image. The higher the image quality, the lower the rate of compression and the larger the file sizes. The super-fine mode will produce the highest quality image and the largest image files.
ABOUT SUPER-FINE AND RAW IMAGE QUALITY Because super-fine and RAW data files are so large, the UHS continuous-advance drive mode cannot be used with these image-quality settings. After capturing five RAW or three super fine images successively, there will be a a few minutes delay while the images are being saved to the memory card. The access lamp will glow and the monitors will be blank during this period. In the RAW image-quality mode, the image size is set at full and cannot be changed.
IMAGE-FILE SIZE AND MEMORY CARD CAPACITY The number of images that can be stored on a memory card is determined by the size of the card and the file size of the images. The actual file size is determined by the scene; some subjects can be compressed further than others. The tables below list approximate file sizes based on average file sizes. Approximate file sizes. Image size Image quality RAW Super fine Extra fine Fine Standard 2560 X 1920 9.6MB 14.2MB 4.0MB 2.1MB 1.1MB 1600 X 1200 – 5.6MB 1.7MB 1.
FLASH MODES The flash mode can be changed in the basic section of the recording-mode menu (p. 80). For the flash to fire, the unit must be manually lifted. The flash will fire in the selected mode regardless of the amount of ambient light. When the flash is used, the camera sensitivity is automatically set between ISO 100 and 200. This setting can be changed using the function dial (p. 48). The auto-white-balance setting will give priority to the flash’s color temperature.
REAR FLASH SYNC Rear flash sync is used with long exposures to make trailing lights or blurring appear to follow rather than proceed the subject. The effect is not apparent if the shutter speed is too fast and stops the subject’s motion. When the shutter is released, a pre-flash will fire. This preflash does not exposure the subject, but is used in the calculation of the flash exposure. The flash will fire again just before the shutter closes.
WIRELESS/REMOTE FLASH On-camera flash. Wireless/Remote flash allows the camera to control an offcamera Minolta 5600HS(D) and 3600HS(D) flash unit without the need of a cable. Single or multiple flash units can be placed around the subject to create different lighting effects. The camera’s built-in flash fires to control the off-camera flash units rather than to illuminate the subject. See your local camera dealer about Minolta lighting accessories. Wireless/ Remote flash.
2 Press and hold the mounting-foot-release button (2) to disengage the safety catch to remove the flash unit from the camera. Position the camera and flash around the subject. See the following page for the camera-to-subject and flash-to-subject ranges. Make sure no objects come between the camera and flash unit. Raise the built-in flash on the camera. The wireless flash indicator (WL) will be displayed in the top left corner of the live image. The number next to it indicates the channel in use.
WIRELESS/REMOTE CAMERA AND FLASH RANGES Flash-to-subject distance Camera-to-subject distance The camera and flash must be within 5m or 16.4 ft of the subject. Minimum camera-to-subject distance Camera sensitivity setting Aperture ISO 100 ISO 200/AUTO ƒ/2.8 1.4 m / 4.6 ft 2.0 m / 6.6 ft ƒ/4 1.0 m / 3.2 ft 1.4 m / 4.6 ft ƒ/5.6 0.7 m / 2.3 ft 1.0 m / 3.2 ft ƒ/8 0.5 m / 1.6 ft 0.7 m / 2.3 ft Minimum flash-to-subject distance 1.0 m / 3.2 ft 1.4 m / 4.6 ft ƒ/2.8 0.7 m / 2.3 ft 1.0 m / 3.2 ft ƒ/4 0.7 m / 2.
NOTES ON WIRELESS/REMOTE FLASH Wireless/Remote flash performs best under subdued light or interior lighting. Under bright light sources, the flash may not be able to detect the control signals from the camera’s built-in flash. The wireless/remote system has four channels so that multiple lighting systems can be used in the same area without affecting each other. Once the camera and flash are separated, the wireless channel can be changed.
FLASH CONTROL ADI, pre-flash TTL, and manual flash controls are available. Flash control is changed in the basic section of the recording-mode menu (p. 80). ADI flash metering – Advanced Distance Integration. This mode combines distance information from the autofocusing system with information from a pre-flash exposure. Unlike conventional TTL flash metering, ADI is not influenced by the reflectance of the subject or background ensuring optimum flash exposures.
The chart lists approximate guide numbers for manual flash calculations. The following equations are useful in determining the guide number, aperture (ƒn), or flash-to-subject distance required for exposure. Guide no. (for distance in meters / feet) Manual flash Full (1/1) 1/4 1/16 Guide no. = distance ƒn. Camera sensitivity (ISO) 100 8 / 26 4 / 13 2 / 6.6 200 11 / 36 5.6 / 18 2.8 / 9.2 400 16 / 52 8 / 26 4 / 13 800 22 / 72 11 / 36 5.6 / 18 Guide no. = ƒn. X distance Guide no. = ƒn.
SPOT AF/AEL When the spot-AE lock button is pressed and held, the exposure is locked. How the spot-AE lock button operates and what functions it controls can be changed in the advanced 1 section of the recording-mode menu (p. 80). If one of the AF/AE settings are selected, the metering mode set with the function dial will be employed when the spot-AE lock button is used. Recording-mode menu setting AF/AE hold While pressing and holding the spot-AE lock button, the focus and exposure are set and locked.
DATA IMPRINTING Data can be printed directly on the image. The imprinting function must be activated before the image is taken. Once activated, data will continue to be imprinted until the function is reset; a yellow bar is displayed behind the distance indicator and frame counter on the monitors to indicate the imprinting function is active. Data imprinting is controlled in the advanced 2 section of the recording-mode menu (p. 80).
COLOR MODE The color mode controls whether a still image is color or black and white. This must be set before the image is recorded. The color mode is set in the advanced 2 section of the recording-mode menu (p. 80). The live image on the monitors will reflect the selected color mode. The color mode has no effect on image file size. Natural Color – reproduces the colors in the scene faithfully. This mode uses no monitor indicator when active. Employs the sRGB color space.
ABOUT ADOBE RGB Adobe RGB has a larger color gamut than the more common sRGB. The size of the gamut limits the colors that can be reproduced; the larger the gamut, the more colors. If the image will be printed out with a high-quality printer, the use of the Adobe RGB color mode is recommended over the sRGB color modes of Natural and Vivid Color. Color matching must be used when opening Adobe-RGB image files.
INSTANT PLAYBACK After an image is captured, it can be displayed on the monitors for two or ten seconds before being saved. When using the continuous-advance, HS continuous advance, or bracketing mode, an index display is used. With UHS continuous advance, only the last frame of the series is displayed. Instantplayback is activated and the length of the playback period is set in the advanced 2 section of the recording-mode menu (80).
VOICE MEMO Voice memo allows a five or fifteen second audio track to be recorded with a still image. The function is activated and the length of the recording time is set in the advanced 2 section of the recordingmode menu (p. 80). When the function is active, the microphone icon is displayed on the data panel and LCD monitor. Voice memo must be set before taking a picture. It will remain in effect until reset.
MOVIE RECORDING Up to sixty seconds of digital video with or without audio can be recorded. The motion JPEG image is 320 X 240 pixels (QVGA). The effective image area is 308 X 240 pixels; two thin lines will appear to the left and right of the image when played back. Set the main dial to movie recording (1) position. Before recording, the data-panel and monitor frame counters will show the maximum time in seconds that can be recorded with the next movie clip.
Movie files are recorded at approximately 297KB per second. A 16MB Compactflash card can store about 50 seconds of digital video. Actual time depends on the subject and the amount of image and audio data stored on the card. Manual focus can be used before or during movie recording. The zooming ring can be used during recording, but the microphone may pick up the noise of the mechanism. The audio can be turned off with the movie menu. Digital Effects Controller (p.
NAVIGATING THE MOVIE MENU Movie Press the menu button to active the menu. Basic Audio On Movie mode Auto select Use the up/down key to highlight the option whose setting needs to be changed. Press the right controller key to display the settings; the current setting is indicated by an arrow. To return to the menu options, press the left key. Use the up/down keys to highlight the new setting. Press the central button of the controller to select the highlighted setting.
PRO-AUTO BUTTON 1 Simply pressing the pro-auto button (1) resets the camera to programmed and automatic functions in the movie recording mode. The camera’s systems work together to bring professional results leaving the operator free to concentrate on aesthetic decisions. The pro-auto button affects functions in either the recording (p. 42) or movie modes only when the mode is in use. Exposure compensation Contrast compensation Color-saturation compensation Filter Movie mode 0.0 (p. 74) 0 (p. 76) 0 (p.
NAVIGATING THE PLAYBACK-MODE MENU In playback mode, press the menu button (1) to activate the menu. The menu button also turns off the playback-mode menu when the settings have been completed. The four-way key of the controller (2) are used to move the cursor in the menu. Pressing the controller will enter a setting. Activate the playback-mode menu with the menu button (1). The “Basic” tab will be highlighted.
Basic Delete Format Lock Index format This frame All frames Marked frames Enter This frame All frames Marked frames Unlock frames 9 frames 4 frames Yes No Choosing “Yes” will execute the operation, “No” will cancel it. For information on frame-selection screens, see page 108. Advanced 1 Slide show Playback Duration Repeat Enter All frames Marked frames 1 – 60 sec. Yes / No Pressing the down key of the controller will cancel the slide show playback and return to the playback-mode menu.
FRAME-SELECTION SCREEN When a marked-frames setting is chosen on a menu, the frame selection screen will appear. This screen allows multiple files to be selected. The index format of the screen can be changed in the basic section of the playback-mode menu (p. 106). Play The left/right keys of the controller move the yellow border to select the image. The menu button cancels the screen and any operation made.
DELETING IMAGES Deleting permanently erases the image. Once deleted, an image cannot be recovered. Care should be taken when using the delete function. Single, multiple, or all images in a folder can be deleted with the playback-mode menu. Before an image is deleted, a confirmation screen will appear; choosing “Yes” will execute the operation, “No” will cancel the operation. To delete images in other folders, the folder must first be selected in the advanced 1 section of the setup menu (p. 118).
FORMATTING MEMORY CARDS When a memory card is formatted, all data on the card is erased. The formatting function is used to erase all data on a memory card. Before formatting a card, copy the data to a computer or storage device. Locking files will not protect them from being deleted when the card is formatted. Always format the memory card using the camera; never use a computer to format a card. When the format option is selected and entered, a confirmation screen will appear.
LOCKING IMAGES Single, multiple, or all images in a folder can be locked. A locked image cannot be deleted by either the playback-mode menu functions or the QV/delete button. Important images should be locked. To lock images in other folders, the folder must first be selected in the advanced 1 section of the setup menu (p. 118). The lock option has four settings: This frame – The image displayed or highlighted in playback mode will be locked. All frames – All images in the folder will be locked.
SLIDE SHOW The advanced 1 section of the playback-mode menu controls the slide-show function. This function automatically displays all still images in a folder in order. Image countdown / total number of images in the presentation. Press the central button of the controller to pause and restart the presentation. To cancel the presentation, press the down key of the controller.
Menu options Settings Slide show Enter To start the slide-show presentation. Pressing the central button of the controller will pause the presentation. During the slide show, press the down key of the controller to stop the presentation and return to the playbackmode menu. All frames To select all the images in the folder to be displayed in the slide-show presentation. Marked Frames To select specific images in the folder to be displayed in the slide-show presentation.
ABOUT DPOF This camera is supported by DPOF™ version 1.1. The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) allows direct printing of still images from digital cameras. After the DPOF file is created, the memory card is simply taken to a photofinishing service or inserted into the memory -card slot of DPOF compatible printers. When a DPOF file is created, a misc. folder is automatically made on the memory card to store it (p. 140).
When the this-frame or all-frames setting is chosen, a screen will appear requesting the number of copies of each image; a maximum of nine copies can be ordered. Use the up/down keys of the controller to set the number of copies desired. If the all-frames setting was used to create a print order, any additional images saved afterwards in the folder will not be included in the order. DPOF files cannot be created for images captured with another camera.
COPYING IMAGES Image files can be copied from one memory card to another. Up to 15MB of data can be transferred. Every time the copy function is used, a new folder is automatically created for the image(s). This frame – To copy the image currently displayed. Marked frames – To copy single or multiple images. When selected, the frame-selection screen (p. 108) will appear; highlight the images to be copied with the yellow border and then press the up key of the controller to mark it with the check icon.
Wait until the copy-completed message is highlighted. A new screen will appear to indicate the name of the new folder containing the copied images; press the central button of the controller to return to the playback menu. Copied to 101MLTCP. OK The copy-unsuccessful message will appear when one or all of the files could not be copied. Check the second memory card to see which files were copied and then repeat the procedure for the files that could not be transferred.
NAVIGATING THE SETUP MENU To access the menu, simply turn the main dial to the setup position. The four-way keys of the controller (1) are used to move the cursor in the menu. Pressing the controller will enter a setting. The “Basic” tab will be highlighted. Use the left/right key of the controller menu tab; the menus will change as the tabs are highlighted. to highlight the appropriate When the desired menu is displayed, use the up/down key to scroll through the menu options.
Basic LCD brightness EVF brightness Audio signals Shutter FX Volume Language Advanced 2 1–5 1–5 Off 1 2 Off 1 2 3 (High) 2 1 (Low) English Deutsch Français Español Advanced 1 File # memory Folder name Select folder New folder Display mode Use the right key to select the display modes (p. 124). Direct MF Reset default EVF autoSwtch Date/Time set Date format Video output Power save Choosing “Yes” will execute the operation, “No” will cancel it. To set the clock and calendar, see page 128.
EVF AND LCD MONITOR BRIGHTNESS The brightness of the EVF and LCD monitor is set independently of each other. Brightness is controlled in five levels from 1 (low) to 5 (high). As each setting is highlighted, the monitor will adjust accordingly; the central button of the controller must be pressed to set the highlighted level. When the LCD brightness or EVF brightness setting is selected, the corresponding monitor will activate automatically.
VOLUME The volume of the audio signals and sound effects can be increased or decreased in the basic section of the setup menu (p. 118). This affects the camera’s audio signals as well as the playback levels of an audio track. LANGUAGE The language used in the menus can be changed. FILE NUMBER (#) MEMORY When file number memory is selected, if a new folder is created, the first file stored in the folder will have a number one greater than the last file saved.
FOLDER NAME All recorded images are stored in folders on the memory card. Folder names come in two formats: standard and date. Standard folders have an eight character name. The initial folder is named 100MLT10. The first three digits are the folder’s serial number, which will increase by one each time a new folder is created. The next three letters refer to Minolta, and the last two numbers indicate the camera used; 10 indicates a DiMAGE 7Hi.
SELECT FOLDER This option allows the selection of existing folders. In quick view or playback mode, only the images in the selected folder can be viewed or edited. In recording mode, the folder-name option on in the advanced 1 section of the setup menu must be set to standard form in order to select the folder in which to place the subsequent recorded images.
DISPLAY MODE Standard display Focus frame only Real-time histogram Grid Scale Live image only The recording mode displays activated by the display-information button (p. 41) can be selected in the advanced 1 section of the setup menu. The display cycle is the same as the order shown on the menu. Setup Basic Adv.1 Adv.2 File # memory Cust. Std.
DIRECT MANUAL FOCUS Direct manual focus allows manual adjustments to be made after the AF system has locked onto the subjects. Direct manual focus is activated in the advanced 1 section of the setup menu (p. 118). Direct manual focus is canceled when continuous AF (p. 83) or manual focus (p. 43) is in use. As described in the basic recording operation section (p.
RESET DEFAULT Unlike the pro-auto button (p. 42, 105), this function affects not only the recording mode, but also the movie, playback, and setup modes. When selected, a confirmation screen will appear; choosing “Yes” resets the following functions and settings, “No” cancels the operation. Default Setting Exposure mode Focus mode Single AF Focus area Wide focus area Digital zoom Canceled White balance Auto white balance Exposure compensation 0.0 Flash compensation 0.
Default Setting Shutter FX 1 Volume 2 Folder name Standard Page 61 101 96 46 99 98 97 100 104 104 111 112 112 120 120 120 120 121 122 Display mode Standard display, focus frame only, real-time histogram, image only 124 125 129 121 128 129 130 131 130 131 131 UHS continuous-advance movie Off Voice memo Off Spot-AE lock button AE hold Magnification button 2X digital zoom Sharpness Normal Color mode Natural Color Data imprinting Off Instant playback Off Movie mode Auto select Audio
EVF AUTO SWITCH – CONTROLLING THE AUTO-DISPLAY FUNCTION This option controls the auto-display function in the recording and movie mode (p. 40). The auto-EVF/LCD setting allows the display to switch between the EVF and LCD monitor automatically. The EVF-auto-on setting turns off the LCD monitor and uses the eye sensors to activate only the EVF when in use. This setting will help conserve battery power. SETTING THE DATE AND TIME It is important to accurately set the clock.
VIDEO OUTPUT Camera images can be displayed on a television (p. 39). The video output can be changed between NTSC and PAL. North America uses the NTSC standard and Europe uses the PAL standard. Check which standard is used in your region to play back images on your television set. AUTO POWER SAVE The camera will turn off the EVF and data panel to conserve battery power if no operation is made within a certain period. The length of this period can be changed to 1, 3, 5, or 10 minutes.
CONTROL DIAL (M) In manual exposure mode (p. 56), the operation to change the aperture and shutter speed can be reversed. Two settings are available: Shutter speed – the camera’s initial setting as described on page 56. The control dial changes the shutter speed (1). To change the aperture, set the digital effects switch to the exposure compensation position (2), and turn the control dial while pressing the digital effects button (3). 1 Aperture – the control dial changes the aperture (1).
BRACKETING In the bracketing drive mode (p. 62), the bracket can be changed between the type indicated by the digital-effects switch and exposure brackets only. Two settings are available: DEC control – the camera’s initial setting as described on page 62. The type of bracket depends on the position of the digital-effects switch. Exposure – only exposure brackets will be made regardless of the position of the digital-effects switch.
DATA-TRANSFER MODE Read this section carefully before connecting the camera to a computer. Details on using and installing the DiMAGE Viewer software are found in the supplied software manual. The DiMAGE manuals do not cover the basic operation of computers or their operating systems; please refer to the manual supplied with your computer.
CONNECTING THE CAMERA TO A COMPUTER A fresh set of batteries should be used when the camera is connected to a computer. The use of the AC adapter (sold separately) is recommended over the use of batteries. For users with Windows 98 and Mac OS 8.6, read the respective sections on how to connect to the operating system before connecting the camera to a computer. 1 Start up the computer. The computer must be turned on before connecting the camera. 2 Open the card-slot door.
When the camera is properly connected to the computer, a drive icon, or volume, will appear. When using Windows XP or Mac OS X, a window will open requesting instructions on what to do with the image data; follow the directions in the window. If the computer does not recognize the camera, disconnect the camera and restart the computer. Repeat the connection procedure above. Windows XP Mac OSX Windows Mac OS Mac OSX The volume name varies between memory cards.
CHANGING THE MEMORY CARD (DATA-TRANSFER MODE) Care should be taken when changing memory cards while the camera is attached to the computer. Data could be lost or damaged if the camera is not properly disconnected. Always confirm the access lamp is out before removing the memory card. WINDOWS 98 / 98 SECOND EDITION 1. Turn off the camera. 2. Change the memory card. 3. Turn on the camera. 4. Use the data-transfer menu to remake the USB connection. WINDOWS ME, 2000 PROFESSIONAL, AND XP 1.
CONNECTING TO WINDOWS 98 / 98 SECOND EDITION The driver needs only to be installed once. If the driver cannot be installed automatically, it can be installed manually with the operating system’s add-new-hardware wizard; see the instructions on the following page. During installation, if the operating system requests the Windows 98 CD-ROM, inset it into the CD-ROM drive and follow the accompanying instructions on the screen. No special driver software is required for other Windows operating systems.
MANUAL INSTALLATION To install the Windows 98 driver manually, follow the instruction in the connecting-the-camera-to-acomputer section on page 133. When the camera is plugged into the computer, the operating system will detect the new device and the add-new-hardware-wizard window will open. Place the DiMAGE software CD-ROM in the CD-ROM drive. Click “Next.” Choose the recommended search for a suitable driver. Click “Next.” Choose to specify the location of the driver.
The add new hardware wizard will confirm the location of the driver. One of three drivers may be located: MNLVENUM.inf, USBPDR.inf, or USBSTRG.inf. The letter designating the CD-ROM drive will vary between computers. Click “Next” to install the driver in the system. The last window will confirm the driver has been installed. Click “Finish” to close the add new hardware wizard. When the my-computer window is opened, a new removable-disk icon will be displayed.
CONNECTING TO MAC OS 8.6 To access this camera with a computer with Mac OS 8.6, the USB storage support software must be installed first. This software is supplied by Apple Computer, Inc. free of charge. The latest version can be downloaded from the Apple Software Updates web site at http://www.apple.com/support. To download and install this software, follow the instruction on the Apple web site. Always read the attached terms and conditions before installing any new software.
MEMORY CARD FOLDER ORGANIZATION Once the camera is connected to the computer, image and audio files can be accessed by double clicking on icons. Image folders are located in the DCIM folder. To copying images and audio recordings, simply drag and drop the file icon into a location in the computer. Files and folders on the memory card can be deleted using the computer. Changing file names or adding other types of data to the card with a computer may cause the camera to malfunction.
Image and audio file names begin with “PICT” followed by a four-digit file number and a tif, mrw, jpg, jpe, mov, or thm extension. Voice-memo files have a wav extension and the file name corresponds to its image file. The thumbnail images (thm) are used in camera and DiMAGE Viewer software operation. When a new folder is created, the first three digits in the folder name will be one greater than the largest folder number on the card.
DISCONNECTING THE CAMERA FROM THE COMPUTER Never disconnect the camera when the access lamp is lit – the data or memory card may permanently be damaged. WINDOWS 98 / 98 SECOND EDITION Confirm that the access lamp is not lit. Turn the mode dial to another position and then disconnect the USB cable. WINDOWS ME, 2000 PROFESSIONAL, AND XP To disconnect the camera, click once on the unplug-or-eject-hardware icon located on the task bar. A small window will open indicating the device to be stopped.
The hardware devices to be stopped will be displayed. Highlight the device by clicking on it then click “Stop.” A confirmation screen will appear to indicate the devices to be stopped. Clicking “OK” will stop the device. A third and final screen will appear to indicate the camera can be safely disconnected from the computer; click OK. Turn the mode dial to another position and then disconnect the USB cable.
TROUBLESHOOTING The section covers minor problems with basic camera operation. For major problems or damage to the camera or charger, or if a problem continues to reoccur frequently, contact a Minolta service facility listed on the back cover of this manual. Problem Symptom Cause Solution The batteries are dead. Replace batteries (p. 20). The batteries are inserted incorrectly.
Problem Symptom Cause Solution Shutter will not release. No-card warning appears on the monitors. No memory card in the camera. Insert a memory card (p. 22). Subject is too close. Make sure the subject is within the autofocus range (0.5m – ∞ / 1.6 ft – ∞) or use the macro mode (p. 47). The camera is in macro mode. Cancel the macro mode setting (p. 47). A special situation is preventing the autofocus system from focusing (p.
Problem Symptom Cause Solution Shooting data is displayed, but live image is entirely black or white. Camera set to manualexposure mode (M). Shutter speed and aperture combination is extremely under or overexposing the live image. Change the shutter speed or aperture value until an image appears on the monitor (p. 56). Live image turns black and white. Camera used under low-light conditions. With still images, automatic monitor amplification activates under low-light conditions (p. 28).
REMOVING THE DRIVER SOFTWARE – WINDOWS 1. Insert a memory card in the camera and connect it to the computer with the USB cable. Other devices must not be connected to the computer during this procedure. 2. Right click on the My-computer icon. Select “properties” from the drop-down menu. Windows XP: from the start menu go to the control panel. Click on the performance and maintenance category. Click “System” to open the system properties window. 3.
CARE AND STORAGE CAMERA CARE • Do not subject the camera to shock or impact. • Turn off the camera when transporting. • This camera is neither waterproof nor splashproof. Inserting or removing batteries or the memory card, or operating the camera with wet hands may damage the camera. • When at the beach or near water, take care not to expose the camera to water or sand. Water, sand, dust, or salt can damage the camera. • Do not leave the camera under direct sunlight.
OPERATING TEMPERATURES AND CONDITIONS • This camera has been designed for use in temperatures from 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F). • Never leave the camera exposed to extreme high temperatures, such as in a car parked in the sun, or to extreme humidity. • When taking the camera from a cold to a warm environment, place it in a sealed plastic bag to prevent condensation from forming. Allow the camera to come to room temperature before removing it from the bag.
BATTERIES • Battery performance decreases with temperature. In cold environments, we recommend keeping spare batteries in a warm place, such as the inside of a coat. Batteries can recover their power when they warm up. As the performance of Ni-MH batteries are less affected by temperature, their use is recommended when shooting in cold environments. • Remove the batteries when the camera is not in use for an extended period. Leaking battery fluid may damage the battery-chamber.
LCD MONITOR CARE • Although the LCD monitor is manufactured using high precision technology, there may occasionally be a lack of color or bright points on the LCD monitor. • Do not apply pressure to the surface of the LCD monitor; it may be permanently damaged. • In a cold environment, the LCD monitor may become temporarily dark. When the camera warms up, the display will function normally. • The LCD monitor may be slow to react in low temperatures or may turn dark in a hot environment.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Number of effective pixels: CCD: Camera sensitivity (ISO): Aspect ratio: Lens construction: Maximum aperture: Focal length: Focusing range (from the CCD): Filter diameter: Autofocusing system: Shutter: Built-in flash recycling time: Viewfinder LCD: Monitor LCD: Field of view: A/D conversion: Recording media: File formats: Printing output control: Menu languages: Video output: 152 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 5.0 million 2/3-type interline primary-color CCD with a total of 5.
Batteries: 4 AA Ni-MH or alkaline batteries Battery performance (recording): Approx. number of recorded images: 220 frames Based on Minolta’s standard test method: 1850mAh Ni-MH batteries, full-size images (2560 X 1920), standard image quality, EVF on, LCD monitor off, flash used with 50% of the frames, no instant playback, no voice memo. Battery performance (playback): Approx. continuous playback time: 120 min. Based on Minolta’s standard test method: 1850mAh Ni-MH batteries, LCD monitor on, EVF off.
SYSTEM ACCESSORIES A variety of Minolta accessories can be used with this camera to extend its performance. For more details on the items listed below and in other sections of this manual, contact your local Minolta dealer. Close-up Diffuser CD-1000 Used directly on the camera with the built-in flash to provide soft lighting for close-up photography.
FILTER Filter levels with color images For more on Filter effects, see page 77.
© 2002 Minolta Co., Ltd. under the Berne Convention and the Universal Copyright Convention.
