Nikon D80 - Manual (Page 137)

125 Technical Notes / Caring for the Camera
The Low-Pass Filter
The image sensor that acts as the camera’s picture element is fi tted with a low-pass fi lter to
prevent moiré. If you suspect that dirt or dust on the fi lter is appearing in photographs, you
can clean the fi lter as described below. Note, however, that the fi lter is extremely delicate
and easily damaged. Nikon recommends that the fi lter be cleaned only by Nikon-authorized
service personnel.
1
A reliable power source is required when inspecting or cleaning the low-pass fi lter. If
the battery level is or below or the camera is powered by an optional MB-D80
battery pack with AA batteries, turn the camera off and insert a fully-charged EN-EL3e
battery or connect an optional EH-5 AC adapter.
2
Remove the lens and turn the camera on. Press the MENU
button to display the camera menus and select Mirror lock-up
from the setup menu (note that this option is not available at
battery levels of
or below, while recording a multiple ex-
posure, or when using an optional MB-D80 battery pack with
AA batteries). The menu shown at right will be displayed.
3
Highlight On and press OK. The message shown at right will
be displayed in the monitor and a row of dashes will appear in
the control panel and viewfi nder. To restore normal operation
without inspecting the low-pass fi lter, turn the camera off .
4
Press the shutter-release button all the way down. The mirror
will be raised and the shutter curtain will open, revealing the
low-pass fi lter. The display in the viewfi nder will turn off and
the row of dashes in the control panel will blink.
5
Holding the camera so that light falls on the low-pass fi lter,
examine the fi lter for dust or lint. If no foreign objects are pres-
ent, proceed to Step 7.
6
Remove any dust and lint from the fi lter with a blower. Do
not use a blower-brush, as the bristles could damage the fi l-
ter. Dirt that can not be removed with a blower can only be
removed by Nikon-authorized service personnel. Under no
circumstances should you touch or wipe the fi lter.