3 MAINTENANCE
CAUTION:
Only technicians familiar with video circuits and digital camera maintenance should
attempt procedures in this section of the manual. This Camera contains sensitive devices that can
be damaged by static discharge. Use appropriate static control methods when working inside the
Camera or at connector pins when cable plugs are removed.
There are no user serviceable parts inside the camera, and, in most cases there should not be any
need to open the camera.
3.1 LENS AND SENSOR FACEPLATE CLEANING
The glass faceplate of the CCD image sensor can be cleaned by wiping the surface gently with a
cotton swab soaked in methyl alcohol. Never rub with a dry swab. Please note that the sensor
faceplate is in the focal plane of the Camera. Any contaminants on this surface will show up in the
picture. Dry pressurized air can be helpful in removing these contaminants.
3.2 CLEANING
AND
LUBRICATION
Carefully clean the exposed optical surfaces of the lens, and the window filter in front of the
faceplate of the sensor periodically to remove accumulated dust and film.
3.2.1 When should I clean the CCD imager in my camera?
Clean the CCD imager only when absolutely necessary, to avoid damaging the delicate CCD
surface. Although cleaning the CCD imager is fairly simple, you should not do so unless the dirt or
debris is a noticeable problem in the image file. Any time the sensor and other delicate mechanisms
are exposed to tools, they are at risk of being damaged. Use all practical safety precautions,
common sense, and only the tested and approved cleaning supplies listed in this bulletin.
3.2.2 What causes the CCD imager to get dirty?
Dust and dirt are the culprits. At DVC, professional cameras are manufactured under strict
conditions and assembled in a dust-free room. Before shipping, each camera is tested and checked
to assure that it meets stringent specifications for cleanliness and quality. Although we take
extreme care to produce a dust-free camera, changing lenses, or static can cause debris to appear on
the imager.
3.2.3 What must I do before cleaning the CCD imager?
One of the first steps in the cleaning procedure is the removal of the IR filter from the camera. Use
the adjustment wrench to turn the 1” format C-mount lens adaptor counter-clockwise. Then
remove the lens adaptor, which will cause the attached lens to be removed, thereby exposing the IR
filter.
3.2.4 How should the CCD Imager be cleaned?
1. Moisten a lint-free cotton swab with clean isopropyl alcohol. The swab should be completely
moist, but not dripping.
Important:
Isopropyl alcohol is flammable and evaporates quickly. It
acts as a solvent and lubricant to remove contaminants from the surface. Be sure to have your
camera ready with the CCD exposed before you moisten the swab.
2. Remove a cleaner from the protective plastic sleeve. Do NOT allow the swab to come in
contact with any surface that might contain dust, dirt, or other contaminants.
3.
Carefully draw the
once
across the surface of the CCD glass with light, consistent pressure.
Rotate the swab 180° and draw it across the CCD surface again.
If pooling or streaks occur, you may have too much alcohol on the swab.
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