Mamiya 645 AF - Manual (Page 43)

Common Sense Camera Care and Practice
The Mamiya 645 AF is a precision optical/mechanical instrument, built for heavy profes-
sional use and a long service life, if properly treated and maintained. Please observe
these basic caveats:
• Read instructions before using camera.
• Protect camera against shocks and falls. Use the neck strap supplied with it, whenever
possible.
• Check the battery frequently and always carry spares. The sealed battery supplied
with the camera may have been subject to storage conditions which have reduced its
service life.
• Be sure to wipe battery contacts before installation and watch correct polarity.
• Battery life differs, depending on frequency of use, type, age, storage condition, ambi-
ent temperature (use External Battery Case in very cold weather), etc.
• Always remove the battery (and film) when camera is not used for a period of time.
• Always keep covers on lenses and camera body.
• Do not store the camera at temperatures exceeding 40°C (105°F) and -10°C (15°F).
Also avoid humid or sea air environment.
• Prolonged disuse shortens camera life. Periodically exercise the shutter (at different
speeds, lens diaphragms and focusing mounts.
• Protect camera against rain and moisture.
• Do not touch lens surfaces. Use blower or lens tissue to remove dust particles.
• Always test your equipment before going on important assignments.
The Importance of Proper Maintenance
Your camera has mechanisms like film transport, shutter and diaphragm blades etc. They
are controlled by gears, levers, springs, and so on. All require special lubrication from time
to time. Ambient conditions can also affect these mechanisms, as well as the electronic
components and the optical glass of your lenses. We therefore suggest that you have your
camera and lenses checked, and if necessary serviced, periodically.
Batteries Care
1. The sealed, new battery which is supplied with this camera may have been subject to
storage conditions which have reduced its service life. Therefore it is desirable to replace
it with a fresh battery as soon as possible.
2. Carefully wipe the battery contacts before inserting into the chamber. Failure to do so
may result in poor electrical contact and consequent malfunctioning of the camera.
3. Always remove battery when camera is not used for a while. Always carry spare
batteries.
4. Battery life differs, depending on type, age, storage condition, ambient temperature,
frequency of use etc.
5. Be sure to match the poles of the battery with those shown in the diagram in the
chamber.
6. Always keep batteries out of the reach of children and never throw used batteries into
a fire or expose to excessive heat.
7. When going on trips be sure to carry spare batteries to ensure that the camera will
function. Also, as batteries tend to temporarily malfunction at temperatures below
freezing, when photographing in extremely cold climates, carry the External Battery Case.
8. When you carry spare batteries, leave them in the original factory packaging. If they are
"unpackaged", be sure to wrap them carefully in order to prevent them touching each
other or any metal objects which can cause them to short circuit and become useless.
83 84