SBIG STC-7 CAMERA
USER’S MANUAL
36
Appendix B: Maintenance
B-1 Cleaning the filters and sensor window
The design of the STC-7 camera allows for easy cleaning of the filters and the
window covering the sensor chamber.
There is no need to open the camera body or remove the filter wheel from the
camera. If internal chamber maintenance is required, please return the camera
for service.
Opening the sensor chamber will void your warranty.
The filters can be accessed for cleaning by removing the top lid of the filter
wheel. Follow the procedure in
Section 1.3 Installing the Hardware
Dust on a filter should be blown off if possible. Use a cotton-tipped swab and
isopropyl alcohol only if necessary. Use one end of the swab with alcohol and
the other end for drying. Never re-use a swab and do not scrub with it
–
use
only gentle pressure. If the camera-side of a filter requires cleaning, remove the
filter retainer and gently remove the filter from the carousel, handling it only by
its edges while cleaning it.
The sensor chamber window can be cleaned in the same way. After removing
the top lid of the filter wheel, remove the filter retainer and then remove the
filter currently over the sensor chamber window. Dust on the window should
be blown off if possible. Use alcohol only if necessary.
If you have a few small dust specs remaining, don't worry. Sometimes it is
almost impossible to remove them all. Performing a flat field calibration can
remove them effectively.
NOTE:
Cans of compressed air may be used to remove dust, but be cautious. Some
types may leave a residue if used with too much vigor or improper proximity.
Excessive pressure could also unexpectedly lift an unsecured filter off the
carousel. Keep the can vertical to avoid expelling the propellant. Follow the
manufacturer’s instructions, but also test it on another surface p
rior to using
it on the camera.
