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. Check the packing list before using this product. If any items are missing, immediately contact your camera dealer.
FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE NP-400 LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES This camera operates on a powerful lithium-ion battery. Misuse or abuse of the lithium-ion battery can cause damage or injury through fire, electric shock, or chemical leakage. Read and understand all warnings before using the battery. DANGER •...
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GENERAL PRODUCT WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS Read and understand the following warnings and cautions for safe use of the digital camera and its accessories. WARNING • Only use the battery specified in this manual. • Only use the specified charger or AC adapter within the voltage range indicated on the unit. An inappropriate adapter or current may cause damage or injury through fire or electric shock.
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CAUTION • Do not use or store these products in a hot or humid environment such as the glove compartment or trunk of a car. It may damage the camera, charger, and battery which may result in burns or injuries caused by heat, fire, explosion, or leaking battery fluid.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Names of parts ...14 Camera body ...14 Data panel ...17 Monitor display - recording mode ...18 Monitor display - Quick View & playback mode...19 Getting up and running ...20 Attaching the camera strap ...20 Removing the lens cap ...20 Attaching the lens hood...21 Charging the battery...22 Installing and changing the battery ...23...
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Advanced recording ...45 Display-information button - changing the display...45 Focus-mode switch...46 Digital zoom ...47 Flex Focus Point ...48 Macro mode...49 Exposure lock ...50 Exposure-mode dial...50 Program - P ...51 Program shift - Pa/Ps...51 Auto recording...52 Aperture priority - A ...54 Shutter priority - S...55 Manual exposure - M ...56 Bulb exposures ...57...
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Recording menu ...80 Navigating the recording-mode menu ...80 Image size and image quality...82 About RAW image quality...84 Notes on image size and resolution ...85 Flash modes ...86 Wireless/Remote flash...88 Wireless/Remote camera and flash ranges...90 Notes on wireless/remote flash ...91 Flash control ...92 AEL button ...94 Recording-mode reset ...95 Interval setup ...96...
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Advanced playback ...115 Playing back voice memos ...115 Navigating the playback menu ...116 Frame-selection screen ...118 Delete ...119 Format ...120 View folder ...120 Lock ...121 Index playback format...121 Copy ...122 Slide Show...124 About DPOF ...126 DPOF setup ...126 Index print ...127 Cancel print ...127 Viewing image on a television ...128 Setup menu...
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Data-transfer mode...146 System requirements...146 Connecting the camera to a computer ...147 Connecting to Windows 98 / 98 second edition ...148 Automatic installation ...148 Manual installation ...149 QuickTime system requirements ...151 Auto power save (Data-transfer mode)...151 Memory card folder organization...152 Disconnecting the camera from the computer ...154 Windows 98 / 98 second edition...154 Windows ME, 2000 Professional, and XP ...154 Macintosh...155...
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(European Union) concerning interference causing equipment regulations. CE stands for Conformité Européenne (European Conformity). This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject DiMAGE A1 Digital Camera: to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful...
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. 162). Microphone Strap eyelet (p. 20) USB port/AV-out terminal (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. The sin- gle-frame advance and continuous advance indicators are displayed in the same area of the data panel.
MONITOR DISPLAY - QUICK VIEW & PLAYBACK MODE Histogram The dark area of the histogram shows the luminance distribution of the recorded image from black (left) to white (right). Each one of the 256 vertical lines indicates the relative proportion of that light value in the image.
GETTING UP AND RUNNING This section covers the preparation of the camera. This includes the changing of batteries and mem- ory card as well as the use of external power supplies. ATTACHING THE CAMERA STRAP Attach the camera strap to the strap eyelets as shown. The tip of the strap should pass under the buckle (2).
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.
CHARGING THE BATTERY Before the camera can be used, the lithium-ion battery must be charged. Before charging the battery, read the safety warnings on page 4 of this manual. Only recharge the battery with the supplied bat- tery charger. The battery should be recharged before each shooting session. See page 164 for bat- tery care and storage.
INSTALLING AND CHANGING THE BATTERY This digital camera uses one NP-400 lithium-ion battery. Before using the battery, read the safety warnings on pages 4 of this manual. When replacing batteries, the camera should be off. Open the battery-chamber door by sliding the battery-chamber lock to the open position.
BATTERY CONDITION INDICATOR This camera is equipped with an automatic battery-condition indicator. When the camera is on, the 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 battery may be exhausted. Full-battery indicator - the batteries are fully charged.
EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES 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-11 is for use in all other areas.
INSERTING AND CHANGING A MEMORY CARD Always turn off the camera and confirm the access lamp is not lit before insert- ing or removing a memory card, otherwise the card may be damaged, and data lost. A memory card must be inserted for the camera to operate. If a card has not been inserted, a no-card warning will be displayed on the monitors.
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To eject a card, open the card-slot door (1), and press and release the card-eject lever to extend it (2). Press (3) the card-eject lever to eject the card (3). The card can now be pulled out. Take care when removing the card as it becomes hot with use.
TURNING ON THE CAMERA 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.
ADJUSTING THE VIEWFINDER AND MONITOR Always store the camera with finder and monitor against the body. DIOPTER ADJUSTMENT The EVF has a built-in diopter that can be adjusted between –5.0 to +2.0. While looking through the EVF, turn the diopter- adjustment dial until the viewfinder image is sharp.
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.
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Custom set Color mode File # memory Folder Name Std. form Select folder 100MLT16 New folder – Date/Time set – Press the central button to display the date/time setting screen. Date/Time set 2003 . 10 . 13 : 14 YYYY/MM/DD :move :sel :enter...
BASIC RECORDING SETTING THE CAMERA TO RECORD IMAGES AUTOMATICALLY EVF AND LCD MONITOR DISPLAY Focus frame Mode indicator Anti-shake indicator (p. 37) Metering-mode indicator (p. 69) Exposure-mode indicator (p. 50) ASIC RECORDING Set the exposure dial to the program (P) position (1). Confirm the mode switch is in the recording position (2).
BASIC RECORDING OPERATION 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 sub- jects, use the focus-lock function (p. 34). The subject must be within the focus range of the lens: 0.5m (1.6ft) - ∞.
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. AUTOMATIC MONITOR AMPLIFICATION In extremely low-light conditions when the camera-sensitivity gain has reached its limit, the automatic monitor-amplification function will intensify the EVF and LCD monitor image.
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. 46. White focus indicator - focus confirmed. Red focus indicator - the subject is too close or a special situation is preventing the AF system from focusing.
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.
ANTI-SHAKE SYSTEM The Anti-shake system minimizes the affect of camera shake, a slight blurring caused by subtle hand motion. Camera shake is more pro- nounced at the telephoto setting than at the wide-angle. Anti-shake is employed when the shutter speed falls below a certain limit depending on the focal length in use.
MOVIE RECORDING Recording time in seconds Recording indicator ASIC RECORDING Movie files are recorded at approximately 522KB per second. A 16MB Compactflash card can store about 19 seconds of digital video with audio. Actual time depends on the subject and the amount of free space on the memory card.
DISPLAY MODE SWITCH Located on the back of the camera, the display-mode switch controls on which monitor is active. The three position switch allows the choice between automatic display and setting the display to the EVF or LCD monitor. Auto display - the camera will automatically change between displaying the live image in the EVF or on the LCD monitor.
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 116. SINGLE-FRAME PLAYBACK AND HISTOGRAM DISPLAY Time of capture Date of capture Frame number/ total number of images ASIC PLAYBACK...
VIEWING IMAGES AND HISTOGRAM DELETING SINGLE IMAGES The displayed image can be deleted. Once deleted, an image cannot be recovered. To delete a displayed image, press the QV/delete button; a confirmation screen will appear. Use the left/right keys to highlight “Yes.” “No” will cancel the operation.
CHANGING THE QUICK VIEW & PLAYBACK DISPLAY The display-information button controls the display format. Each time the button is pressed, the dis- play cycles through to the next format: full display, image only, index playback. Image only Full display Index playback In index playback, the four-way keys of the controller will move the yellow border to the adjacent image.
Zoom Scroll Press the central button of the controller to switch between the zoom and scroll functions. The scroll arrows or magnification display will turn blue to indi- cate the active function. Zoom Scroll ENLARGED PLAYBACK In single-frame playback, a still image can be enlarged for clos- er examination from 1.2X.
VIEWING MOVIES Movies can be played back on the camera. Movie files are indicated by an indicator at the bottom of the display. Play Pause DVANCED RECORDING Press the center of the controller to play back the file. Press the controller to pause the movie; pressing the controller again will resume the playback.
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-INFORMATION BUTTON - CHANGING THE DISPLAY 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, real-time histogram, focus frame, and live image only.
FOCUS-MODE SWITCH Single-shot AF (Autofocus), continuous AF, and manual focus is set with the focus-mode switch. Slide the switch to select the appropriate focus mode. Single-shot AF - a general purpose autofocusing mode. Its operation is described in the basic recording section. Continuous AF - used for photographing moving subjects.
Manual focus - the MF indicator is displayed in the lower right corner of the monitors to indi- cate the focus mode. Use the focusing ring at the rear of the lens barrel to focus. Always use the monitor image to confirm focus. The approx- imate object distance from the CCD is displayed near the frame counter.
FLEX FOCUS POINT The Flex Focus Point (FFP) is a powerful tool for off-center subjects. It can be moved to any point in the image area. The FFP cannot be used with the digital zoom or movie recording. DVANCED RECORDING Press and hold the center button of the controller to activate the Flex Focus Point;...
MACRO MODE The macro mode is used for close-up photographs of small objects. The built-in flash cannot be used with macro mode. The use of a tripod is recommended. Align one of the arrows on the zooming ring with the index next to the macro switch and slide the switch forward.
EXPOSURE LOCK EXPOSURE-MODE DIAL The exposure-mode dial is used to select traditional exposure mode as well as subject programs that optimize camera settings to specific shooting condi- tions. Camera settings saved in the camera can also be recalled with this dial.
PROGRAM - P Program exposure is set with the exposure-mode dial (p. 50). The program AE uses luminance and focal-length information to calculate exposures. This allows the photographer to shoot without worry- ing about exposure settings. The shutter speed and aperture values of the exposure are displayed on the monitors and data panel.
AUTO RECORDING Auto recording is set with the exposure-mode dial. Auto recording is the same as the program expo- sure mode (p. 51), except that when the camera is on if the exposure mode dial is turned to or from the auto position, the auto exposure mode is reset.
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Instant playback Voice memo Color mode Sharpness Noise reduction Monitor amplification Monitor amplification - Manual exp. Magnification button DSP setup Subject tracking AF AE Lock Spot AE area Direct manual Focus (DMF) Natural color (sRGB) Normal Auto Exposure priority Digital zoom DSP (Digital subject programs) Center spot p.
APERTURE PRIORITY - A Aperture priority is set with the exposure-mode dial (p. 50). The photographer selects the aperture and the camera sets the appropri- ate shutter speed to ensure the correct exposure. When A mode is selected, the aperture display on the monitors turns blue.
SHUTTER PRIORITY - S Shutter priority is set with the exposure-mode dial (p. 50). 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 display on the monitors turns blue.
MANUAL EXPOSURE - M Manual exposure mode allows individual selection of shutter speeds and apertures. This mode over- rides the exposure system giving the photographer total control over the final exposure. Manual expo- sure is set with the exposure-mode dial (p. 50). The shutter speeds and aperture values can be changed in 1/3 stop increments.
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 calcu- late bulb exposures.
DIGITAL-SUBJECT-PROGRAMS Digital subject programs optimize the camera’s exposure, white-balance, and image-processing systems for specific conditions and subjects. Simply turn the exposure mode dial to select the appropriate subject program. Sports action - used to capture fast action by maximizing shutter speeds. When using a flash, make sure the subject is within the flash range (p.
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. 111). The exposure and flash compensation will remain in effect until it has been reset.
USING THE FUNCTION DIAL The memory function, metering mode, drive mode, white balance, and camera sensitivity are con- trolled by the function dial. The custom position is for a designate menu function that can be set in section 2 of the setup menu. Only white balance can be set in the movie recording mode. Memory set - to store camera settings (p.
DRIVE MODES The drive modes control the rate and method images are captured. Indicators indicating the selected drive mode appear on the data panel and monitors. The drive mode is set with the function dial (p. 60). Single-frame advance - to take a single image each time the shutter-release button is pressed (p.
BRACKETING This drive 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. Contrast, satura- tion, and filter brackets can also be made. Continuous-advance bracket - the order of the exposure bracket series is normal exposure (as indicated by the camera), underexposure, and overexposure.
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Compose the picture as described in the basic recording section (p. 33). Press and hold the shutter-release button all the way down (1) to make the bracket series; three consecutive images will be captured. If single-frame advance bracketing is selected, the shutter-release but- ton must be pressed for each exposure.
STANDARD AND HIGH SPEED CONTINUOUS ADVANCE Continuous-advance mode allows a series of images to be captured while holding down the shutter- release 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 setting; five with RAW images, and three with the other options.
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Camera Notes To change function dial or Digital Effects Controller settings quickly, simply press and hold the center dial or controller button (1) and select the setting with the front and rear con- trol dials (2). Release the center button of the function dial or Digital Effects Controller to set the change.
INTERVAL The interval mode makes a series of still or moving images over a period of time. Similar to time- lapse 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 dis- abled.
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After mounting the camera on a tripod, compose the image so that the subject area falls within the focus frames; the camera sets the focus, exposure, and white balance, and charges the flash just before each exposure. Continuous AF can be used. Settings locked with the AE lock button are can- celed after the first frame.
SELF-TIMER Used for self-portraits, the self-timer will delay the release of the shutter after the shutter button is pressed. A ten second and two second self-timer is available. With the camera on a tripod, compose the picture as described in the basic recording section (p.
METERING MODES Multi-segment - uses 300 segments to measure luminance and color. This data is com- bined with distance information to calculate the camera exposure. This advanced metering system will give accurate worry-free exposures in almost all situations. Center weighted - a traditional metering method in film cameras. The system measures light values over the entire image area with emphasis given the central region.
WHITE BALANCE Auto white balance - to automatically detect the type of light and adjust the white balance accordingly. When the built-in flash is used, the white balance is set for the color temperature of the flash. When set, no indicators appear on the data panel or monitors. Daylight Tungsten Preset white balance - to set the white balance to a specific light source.
CUSTOM WHITE-BALANCE CALIBRATION Custom-white-balance function allows the camera to be calibrated to a specific lighting condition. Three setting can be stored in the camera and used repeatedly. Custom white balance is especially useful with mixed-lighting conditions or when critical control over color is needed. Select a white object and fill the the center of the live image with it;...
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 functions like subject programs, data imprinting, voice memo, and instant playback, most recording-mode camera settings will be saved including the position of the Flex Focus Point, the display mode, and changes made with the function dial and digi- tal effects control.
MEMORY RECALL Camera settings saved with the function dial are recalled with the expo- sure-mode dial. Simply turn the exposure mode dial to the memory recall (MR) position (1); the register-selection screen will open. On the register-selection screen use the control dials or left/right keys of the controller (2) to select the memory register in which the settings are stored;...
CAMERA SENSITIVITY - ISO The auto setting automatically adjusts the camera sensitivity to the light conditions between ISO 100 and 200. When any other setting than auto is used, “ISO” will appear on the data panel, and “ISO” and the set value will be displayed on the monitors. Photographers can select a specific sensitivity setting.
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.
USING THE FLASH SYNC TERMINAL The flash sync terminal allows a studio or location flash system to be connected to the camera with a standard PC cord. The terminal is compatible with both center positive (normal polarity) and center negative (positive polarity) flash units with a voltage of 400V or lower. Unscrew the terminal cover.
DIGITAL EFFECTS CONTROL The Digital Effects Controller can adjust image contrast, color, and saturation. Changes are instantly visible on the monitors before the image is captured. Adjustments can be made repeatedly and in combination. Adjustments remain in effect until manually reset.
CONTRAST COMPENSATION The contrast of a scene can be adjusted within eleven levels (±5) with the Digital Effects Controller (p. 77). The contrast must be set before the image is captured. When changing the contrast setting, an indicator is displayed to show an increase (+) or decrease (–) in contrast.
FILTER EXAMPLES Filter levels with color images ±0 Filter settings with black and white images. Minolta History On February 20th, 1962, John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth. On board his Friendship 7 spacecraft was a Minolta Hi-matic camera to record that historic event.
RECORDING MENU In recording mode, press the menu button to activate the menu. The menu button also closes the menu after making settings. The four-way key of the controller is used to move the cursor in the menu. Pressing the central button of the controller will enter a setting. NAVIGATING THE RECORDING MENU Press the right controller key to display the settings;...
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Image size 2560x1920 Quality Fine Flash mode Fill-flash Flash control ADI flash AEL button AE hold Reset – Int. set – Bracket set 0.3Ev Data imprint Imprint to Image + Exif Inst.playback Voice memo Color mode Nat. (sRGB) Sharpness Normal Noise reductn Monitor amp.
IMAGE SIZE AND IMAGE QUALITY Image size and quality must be set before the picture is taken. Changes are displayed on the LCD monitor and data panel. Image size and quality are set in section 1 of the recording menu (p. 80). 2560 2560 X 1920 2080...
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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. One memory card can contain images with differing sizes and quali- ties. The actual file size is determined by the scene; some subjects can be compressed further than others.
ABOUT RAW IMAGE QUALITY In the RAW image-quality mode, the image size is set at full and cannot be changed. The image size will not be displayed on the monitors. The digital zoom, enlarged playback, data imprinting, and print functions cannot be used. Unlike the other image-quality modes, RAW image data is unprocessed and requires image process- ing before it can be used.
NOTES ON IMAGE SIZE AND RESOLUTION Image size changes the number of pixels in the image. When displayed at the same resolution, images appear to have the same amount of detail, but the dimensions of the image increases with the number of pixels; except for the 640 X 480 image, the other pictures are too large to be dis- played on this page.
FLASH MODES The flash mode can be changed in section 1 of the recording menu (p. 80). For the flash to fire, the built-in unit must be manually lifted. The flash will fire in the selected mode regardless of the amount of ambient light.
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.
WIRELESS / REMOTE FLASH On-camera flash Wireless/ Remote flash Image size Quality Flash mode Fill-flash Flash control Red eye AEL button Rear sync. Reset Wireless ECORDING MENU Wireless/Remote flash allows the camera to control an off- camera Minolta 5600HS(D) and 3600HS(D) flash unit with- out the need of a cable.
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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. The flash signal will turn white when the flash is charged. When the 5600HS(D) and 3600HS(D) flash is charged, the AF illuminator on the front of the unit will blink (2).
WIRELESS/REMOTE CAMERA AND FLASH RANGES Camera-to-subject distance Minimum camera-to-subject distance Aperture ISO 100 ƒ/2.8 1.4 m / 4.6 ft ƒ/4 1.0 m / 3.2 ft ƒ/5.6 0.7 m / 2.3 ft ƒ/8 0.5 m / 1.6 ft Minimum flash-to-subject distance ƒ/2.8 1.0 m / 3.2 ft ƒ/4...
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.
FLASH CONTROL ADI, pre-flash TTL, and manual flash controls are available. Flash control is changed in section 1 of the recording menu (p. 80). ADI (Advanced Distance Integration) flash metering - combines distance information from the aut- ofocusing 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 expo- sures.
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 expo- sure. Guide no. (for distance in meters / feet) Camera sensitivity (ISO) Manual flash 11 / 36...
AEL BUTTON When the AEL button is pressed and held, the exposure is locked. The exposure remains locked after an image has been captured until the AEL button has been released (hold setting) or pressed again (toggle setting). How the button operates can be changed in section 1 of the recording menu (p.
RECORDING MODE RESET The recording mode functions can be reset in section 1 of the recording menu (p. 80). When select- ed, a confirmation screen will appear; choosing “Yes” resets the following functions and settings, “No” cancels the operation. Exposure compensation Flash compensation Drive mode Anti-shake...
INTERVAL SETUP The parameters for the interval drive mode (p. 66) are set in section 2 of the recording menu (p. 80). Int. set Enter Bracket set Int. set Interval 1 min No.of frames Start time No delay :enter press the center of the controller to complete the operation. The menu button closes the screen and cancels any changes.
SHARPNESS The sharpness of the image can be altered. This must be set before the image is recorded. Sharpness is set in section 3 of the recording menu (p. 80). If any setting other than normal is select- ed, the sharpness indicator is displayed on the monitors. Menu options Hard (+) Increases the sharpness of the image, accentuating details.
DATA IMPRINTING Data can be printed on a still image and saved to the file’s Exif data. The 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 frame counter on the monitors to indicate the function is active.
ELECTRONIC KEYBOARD The electronic keyboard is used to enter text for imprinting data or for naming new folders. The key- board 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 con- troller to enter it.
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 or continuous-advance bracketing drive mode, an index display is used. Instant-playback is activated and the length of the playback period is set in section 2 of the recording menu (P.
VOICE MEMO Voice memo allows up to fifteen seconds of audio to be recorded with a still image. The function is activated in section 2 of the recording menu (p. 80) and is used in unison with instant playback. When the function is active, the microphone indicator is displayed on the monitors.
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 section 2 of the recording menu (p. 80). The live image on the monitors will reflect the selected color mode.
Natural Color and Adobe RGB - reproduces the colors in the scene faithfully. Black & White - produces mono- chrome images. 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;...
MONITOR AMPLIFICATION The monitor amplification options control the display of the live image. Monitor amplification has two settings: Auto - in low-light conditions when the camera-sensitivity gain has reached its limit, the automatic monitor-amplification function will intensify the monitor image. Although the live image turns black and white, this does not affect the color mode in use.
MAGNIFICATION BUTTON The function assigned to the magnification button can be changed between the digital zoom (p. 47) and the Flex Digital Magnifier in section 3 of the recording menu (p. 80). The Flex Digital Magnifier can only be used during manual focus. Button shortcuts can be used to switch between the digital zoom and Flex Digital Magnifier (p.
DIGITAL SUBJECT PROGRAM (DSP) SETUP The memory registers used for camera settings can be assigned to the Digital Subject Program positions on the exposure-mode dial. This is set in section 4 of the recording menu (p. 80). Two options are available: DSP - the Digital Subject Programs are active on the exposure- mode dial.
SPOT AE AREA When using spot metering (p. 69) with the Flex Focus Point (p. 48), the position of the spot metering area can be specified at the center of the live image or linked to the Flex Focus Point; the spot moves after the position of the FFP is set.
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;...
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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.
ABOUT EXPOSURE AND FLASH COMPENSATION Sometimes the camera’s exposure meter is deceived by certain conditions. Exposure compensation can be used in 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.
WHAT IS AN EV? Ev stands for exposure value. A change of one Ev will adjust the exposure calcu- lated by the camera by a factor of two. LIGHT SOURCES AND COLOR The human eye adapts itself extremely well under different conditions. The paper of this manual you are reading looks white regardless of the type of lighting.
MOVIE MENU In movie mode, press the menu button to activate the menu. The menu button also closes the menu after making settings. The four-way key of the controller is used to move the cursor in the menu. Pressing the central button of the controller will enter a setting. NAVIGATING THE MOVIE MENU Use the up/down key to highlight the new setting.
MOVIE MODE The movie mode option selects the type of movie recorded. Three options are available on the movie menu: Standard movie - to record a color movie under normal lighting conditions. Night Movie - to record under low light levels. Night Movies are black and white. While Night Movies can be recorded under normal conditions, bright outdoor lighting may be beyond the exposure control range.
NOTES ON MOVIE RECORDING The list below indicates which functions can be set in the movie mode: Available recording functions Exposure compensation (p. 59) Anti-shake (p. 37) Contrast compensation (p. 77) Display information button (p. 45) Color-saturation compensation (p. 77) Manual focus (p.
ADVANCED PLAYBACK This section covers how to playback voice memos as well as the playback mode’s menu functions. The menu navigation section covers basic menu operation. It is followed by detailed descriptions of the menu settings. PLAYING BACK VOICE MEMOS Voice memos can be played back in Quick View and the playback mode.
NAVIGATING THE PLAYBACK MENU In playback mode, press the menu button to activate the menu. The menu button also closes the menu after making settings. The four-way key of the controller is used to move the cursor in the menu. Pressing the central button of the controller will enter a setting.
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– Delete – Format View folder 100MLT16 – Lock – Copy Index format 9 frames – Slide show Playback All frames Duration 5 sec. Repeat DPOF set – Index print Cancel print – To delete images on the memory card (p. 119). To format the memory card (p.
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 section 1 of the playback menu (p. 121). :move :sel.
DELETE 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;...
FORMAT 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.
LOCK 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 with the view-folder option in section 1 of the playback menu (p.
COPY 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.
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Wait until the copy-completed message is highlighted. A new screen will appear to indicate the name of the new folder con- taining the copied images; press the central button of the con- troller to return to the playback menu. If the images were copied to a new card, the no-images message will be displayed when viewed on the camera.
SLIDE SHOW Section 2 of the playback menu controls the slide-show function. This function automatically displays all still images in a folder in order. Press the central button of the controller to pause and restart the presentation. Use the left/right keys of the controller to advance to the next image or return to the pre- vious one.
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Menu options Settings Slide show Enter All frames Playback Marked Frames Duration 1 - 60s. Repeat Yes / No To start the slide-show presentation. Pressing the central button of the controller will pause the presentation. During the slide show, press the menu button or the down key of the controller to stop the presentation and return to the play- back-mode menu.
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 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 con- troller 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.
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 com- patible with the NTSC and PAL standards.
SETUP MENU The setup menu controls camera operations. The menu navigation section covers basic menu operation. It is followed by detailed descriptions of the menu settings. OPENING THE SETUP MENU Image size 2560x1920 Quality Fine Flash mode Fill-flash Flash control ADI flash AEL button AE hold...
NAVIGATING THE SETUP MENU See page 129 on how to open the setup menu. The four-way key of the con- troller is used to move the cursor in the menu. Pressing the central button of the controller will enter a setting. Press the right controller key to display the settings;...
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– LCDbrightness – Shortcut help Transfer mode Data storage EVF auto swtch Auto EVF/LCD Video output NTSC Language English Custom set Color mode File # memory Folder Name Std. form Select folder 100MLT16 – New folder – Date/Time set – Reset default Audio signals Focus signal...
LCD BRIGHTNESS The brightness of the EVF and LCD monitor is set independently of each other. Select the display to adjust using section 1 of the setup menu; the corresponding monitor activates automatically and the brightness screen is displayed. Brightness is controlled in eleven levels. Use the left/right controller keys to adjust the brightness, the monitor will adjust accordingly.
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To display a grid or scale over the display formats, press and hold the function button (1) and press the display-information but- ton (2) to cycle through the options: grid, scale, and off. For more on the displays modes, see page 45. When using manual focus, a shortcut allows switching between the digital zoom (p.
LCDbrightness – – Shortcut help Transfer mode Data storage EVF auto swtch Auto EVF/LCD Video output NTSC Language English Hold down the function button (1) and press the QV/delete button (2) to reset the camera. This shortcut only resets the recording mode or movie mode depending on the posi- tion of the mode switch.
EVF AUTO SWITCH This option controls the auto-display function in the recording and movie mode (p. 39). Two setting are available: Auto EVF/LCD - the EVF’s eye sensors switch between the EVF and LCD monitor automatically. EVF auto on - the LCD monitor is turned off and the eye and grip sen- sors activate the EVF when in use.
CUSTOM SETUP The one frequently used function can be allocated to the custom position on the function dial. The function is selected in section 2 of the setup menu (p. 130). The following recording functions are avail- able: Image size (p. 82) Image quality (p.
100MLT16 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; 16 indicates a DiMAGE A1. (Standard) A date folder name also starts with the three digit serial number and is followed by one register for the year, two register for the month, and two registers for the day: 100YMMDD.
NEW FOLDER This allows the creation of new folders. The folder-name option on in section 2 of the setup menu must be set to standard form in order to use the new-folder function. When selected, the electronic keyboard (p. 99) automatically appears so the folder name can be entered.
RESET DEFAULT This option resets all camera modes: recording, movie, playback, and setup. To reset the recording or movie modes, see pages 95 and 113. When selected, a confirmation screen will appear; choosing “Yes” resets the following functions and settings, “No” cancels the operation. Display mode Exposure compensation Flash compensation...
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Image size Image quality Flash mode Flash control AEL button Interval setup Bracket setup Data imprinting Imprint to Instant playback Voice memo Color mode Sharpness Noise reduction Monitor amplification Monitor amplification (Manual exposure) Magnification button DSP setup Subject Tracking AF AE lock Spot AE area Direct Manual Focus (DMF)
Folder name Audio signals Focus signal Shutter FX Volume Auto power save Anti-shake Full-time AF Grip sensor Control dial setup Control dial setup (Manual exposure) Delete confirmation AUDIO SIGNALS Every time a button is pressed, an audio signal gives a positive confirmation of the operation.
SHUTTER FX A shutter sound effect gives positive audio confirmation when the shutter is released. The sound effects can be turned off in section 3 of the setup menu (p. 130). Two shut- ter effects are available. Signal 1 uses the shutter sound from the Dynax/Maxxum 9 SLR.
ANTI-SHAKE When the Anti-shake system activates can be changed in section 4 of the setup menu. Two options are available: Display + Exp. - when the shutter-release button is pressed part- way down, the anti-shake function will activate if on. The affect of the Anti-shake system can be seen in the live image.
CONTROL DIAL SETUP The control dial setup option in section 4 of the setup menu changes the front and rear control dial operation in the P, A, and S exposure modes. Exposure compensation (p. 59) can also be assigned to one of the control dials. Refer to the sections on the exposure modes for more information.
CONTROL DIAL SETUP - MANUAL EXPOSURE The manual-exposure option in section 4 of the setup menu changes the front and rear control dial operation in the manual (M) exposure mode. Three options are available: Shutter speed F/no. F/no. Programmed manual - both shutter speed and aperture are used to change the Program manual exposure following the camera’s program line.
The updated version of the driver software included on the supplied DiMAGE software CD-ROM is required for the operation of the DiMAGE A1 with a computer. The new software will have no affect on the performance of older DiMAGE cameras.
CONNECTING THE CAMERA TO A COMPUTER A fully charged battery should be used when the camera is connected to a computer. The AC adapter (sold separately) is recommended over the use of batteries. For users with Windows 98, read the section on how to install the necessary driver before connecting the camera to a computer. 1.Start up the computer.
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.
MANUAL INSTALLATION To install the Windows 98 driver manually, follow the instructions in the connecting-the-camera-to-a- computer section on page 147. When the camera is plugged into the computer, the oper- ating system will detect the new device and the add-new- hardware-wizard window will open.
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The last window will confirm the driver has been installed. Click “Finish” to close the add new hardware wizard. Restart the computer. TRANSFER MODE The add new hardware wizard will confirm the location of the driver. One of three drivers may be located: MNLVENUM.inf, USBPDR.inf, or USB- STRG.inf.
QUICKTIME SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS To install QuickTime, follow the instructions in the installer. Macintosh users can down- load the latest version of QuickTime free of charge from the Apple Computer web site at http://www.apple.com. AUTO POWER SAVE (DATA-TRANSFER MODE) If the camera does not receive a read or write command within ten minutes, it will shut down to save power.
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.
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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 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 off the camera 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.
The hardware devices to be stopped will be dis- played. Highlight the device by clicking on it then click “Stop.” A confirmation screen will appear to indi- cate 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 discon- nected from the computer;...
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.
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.
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 facil- ity listed on the back cover of this manual. Problem Symptom Nothing displayed...
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Problem Symptom Focus signal is red. Pictures are not sharp. Pictures are taken indoors or in low- light situations without flash. While using flash, the pictures are The subject is beyond the flash range (p. 75). too dark. A shadow Lens hood mount- appears on the ed when using...
Problem Symptom Shooting data is Camera set to displayed, but live manual-exposure image is entirely mode (M). black or white. Camera used Live image turns under low-light black and white. conditions. Inaccurate expo- sures with very Metering-mode bright or dark indicator is red.
ABOUT THE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY CHARGER CORD The included AC cord is designed for the current of the sales region. Only use the cord in the region it was purchased. Continental Europe, China, Korea, Singapore (220-240V) Great Britain, Hong Kong (220V-240V) United States, Canada, Taiwan (110V-120V) ATTACHING THE FERRITE CORE FRC-100 When using an optional remote cord (RC-1000S or RC-1000L), or when operat-...
CARE AND STORAGE Read this section in its entirety to get the best results from your camera. With proper care, your cam- era will provide years of service. CAMERA CARE • Do not subject the camera to shock or impact. •...
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.
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 • Do not store the battery when it is fully charged. •...
BEFORE IMPORTANT EVENTS OR JOURNEYS • Check the camera’s operation; take test pictures and purchase spare batteries. • Minolta has no responsibility for any damage or loss incurred by equipment malfunction. QUESTIONS AND SERVICE • If you have questions about your camera or charger, contact your local camera dealer or write to the Minolta distributor in your area.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Number of effective pixels: CCD: Camera sensitivity (ISO): Aspect ratio: Lens construction: Maximum aperture: Focal length: Focusing range (from the CCD): 0.5 m - infinity (1.6 ft - infinity) Filter diameter: Autofocusing system: Shutter: Built-in flash recycling time: Viewfinder LCD: Monitor LCD: Field of view:...
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Battery: Battery performance (recording): Approx. number of recorded images: 330 frames with Battery performance (playback): External power source: Dimensions: Weight: Operating temperature: Operating humidity: Lithium-ion Battery Charger BC-400 Input voltage: Weight: Dimensions: Lithium-ion Battery NP-400 Voltage: Weight: Dimensions: Specifications are based on the latest information available at the time of printing and are subject to change without notice.
BATTERY PACK BP-400 The Battery Pack BP-400 is a portable power source for the camera. This accessory uses two NP-400 lithium-ion batteries or six Ni-MH or alkaline batteries to power the camera. For more details on the Battery Pack BP-400 or other accessories listed in this manual, contact your local Minolta dealer.
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