Maintenance Tips for Automatic Focusing Systems

Regular maintenance of the autofocus system will extend the equipment's life and improve the quality of the images.The book provides simple, easy-to-follow maintenance tips on three core topics: cleaning the sensor, focusing calibration, and checking the camera's hardware and software.

Clean the lens and sensor.

The auto-focus system is very sensitive to the cleanliness of both the lens and the sensor, and even a speck of dust or a fingerprint can cause the focus to fail.

Cleaning the lens.

First use a can of compressed air to blow away the larger particles of dust, to avoid scratching the coating by direct wiping.Next, use a special lens cloth dipped in a little cleaning fluid to wipe the lens in a circular motion from the center out.Don't just wipe it off with paper towels or your shirt--lenses are more delicate than you think!

Sensor dust removal operation.

After turning off the camera, enter the cleaning mode. If you have a model with a mirror lock, be sure to lock the mirror first.Use the cleaning rod to apply the cleaning fluid to the sensor, and then gently wipe it from left to right.Friends with shaky hands suggest finding a professional to do the job, because repairing the sensors is not cheap.

Regularly adjust the focusing system.

After a while, the camera body and lens inevitably lose their alignment, and especially if you've used multiple lenses, you'll want to have your camera calibrated regularly.

The software will then automatically adjust the settings.

Nowadays, many high-end cameras come with a function for adjusting the focus.Find a well-lit environment and place the calibration plate on a surface that is parallel to the lens axis. Then, following the instructions in the manual, let the camera run through the calibration process.The process is about as simple as upgrading your cell phone.

Manual testing and adjustment.

If the focus is always too far forward or too far back, don't rush to send it in for repair.On the menu, select the fine-tuning option.After each adjustment, they had to take three sets of photographs to compare. If eight out of ten shots were accurate, they were considered qualified.

Check the hardware and software status.

The autofocus system is a typical example of the need to take into account both hardware and software.

Firmware updates are important.

It is especially important to check for updates when you buy a new lens to use with an old body.Last year, a user reported a breathing problem with a certain brand of 35mm lens. The problem was resolved via a firmware update.But before upgrading, make sure to back up your settings, so you don't lose your custom parameters like I did last time.

Mechanical structure inspection.

If you hear a squeaking sound or a jerking motion while focusing, it may be a sign that the focusing ring needs oil.If you're doing it yourself, you need to use special damping grease, and never use butter or Vaseline--don't ask me how I know.If you have an ultrasonic motor lens and suddenly find that focusing has become slow, it may be that the drive components have aged. In this case, it's best to send it to the manufacturer's after-sales service department.

Daily use.

Avoid violent impacts.

Last time a friend dropped his camera bag, and the lens motor just stopped working.It is recommended that the lens and body be stored separately when traveling, and that the body be kept with the lens mount facing down to better protect it from damage.

Pay attention to the storage environment.

In the south, during the rainy season, remember to put your equipment in a dehumidifier, because the motor in the lens will squeak like an old cassette tape when it gets wet.When coming in from the cold in northern winter, wait half an hour before turning the camera on, otherwise the lens will fog up and trying to focus will accelerate gear wear.