GX3300 Technical Manual
Page 16
Cleaning the Sensor
DO NOT CONTACT CLEAN SENSOR UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY.
Identifying Debris
Debris on the image sensor or optical components will appear as a darkened area or
smudge on the image that does not move as the camera is moved. Do not confuse this
with a pixel defect which will appear as a distinct point.
Locating Debris
Before attempting to clean the image sensor, it is important to first determine that the
problem is due to debris on the sensor window. To do this you should be viewing a
uniform image, such as a piece of paper, with the camera. Debris will appear as a dark
spot or dark region that does not move as the camera is moved. To determine that the
debris is not on the camera lens, rotate the lens independent of the camera. If the spot
moves as the lens moves, then the object is on the lens -not on the image sensor- and
therefore cleaning is not required. If the camera has an IR filter, then rotate the IR filter.
If the object moves then the particle is on the IR filter not the sensor. If this is the case
remove the IR filter carefully using a small flat head screw driver. Clean both sides of
the IR filter using the same techniques as explained below for the sensor window.
DO NOT TOUCH ANY OPTICS WITH FINGERS. OIL FROM FINGERS CAN
DAMAGE FRAGILE OPTICAL COATINGS.
Cleaning with Air
If it is determined that debris is on the sensor window, then remove the camera lens,
and blow the sensor window directly with clean compressed air. If canned air is used,
do not shake or tilt the can prior to blowing the sensor. View a live image with the
camera after blowing. If the debris is still there, repeat this process. Repeat the
process a number of times with increased intensity until it is determined that the
particulate cannot be dislodged. If this is the case then proceed to the contact cleaning
technique.
Contact Cleaning
Only use this method as a last resort. Use 99% laboratory quality isopropyl alcohol and
clean cotton swabs. Dampen the swab in the alcohol and gently wipe the sensor in a
single stroke. Do not reuse the same swab. Do not wipe the sensor if the sensor and
swab are both dry. You must wipe the sensor quickly after immersion in the alcohol, or
glue from the swab will contaminate the sensor window. Repeat this process until the
debris is gone. If this process fails to remove the debris, then contact AVT Canada Inc.
