Maintenance, Servicing O-RINGS | Sony HVR-Z1, HDR-FX1 specification

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: DO NOT leave the housing exposed to direct sunshine, as extreme heat condition can be detrimental to certain of its components.

1.Keep housing and o-rings away from direct sunlight. Always store unit when possible away from direct sunlight as this can dry out and crack o-rings in the housing. Ultraviolet rays can damage plastics, paint and o-rings.

2.Always rinse or soak closed housing in fresh water for 10 to 15 minutes after every use. Reach into freshwater and operate all controls to clear salt water. Do not use solvents to clean unit. If preferred, use mild detergent and clean fresh water.

3.Fasteners that are removable should occasionally have the threads lubricated with silicon grease.

4.Rinse clean and remove water spots from external filters and lens surface after every dive or water spots may build up and become impossible to remove. Dry gently with a soft, lint-free cloth.

5.Inspect housing's rear door main o-ring seals (double seals) before every dive. Make sure that there are no cracks or misalignment in the o-ring channel and that no debris is caught on the o-rings.

SERVICING O-RINGS

1.O-rings and sealing surface should be lightly lubricated with silicon lubricant on a regular basis. This is not necessary after every dive; every tenth dive during regular heavy use is sufficient. This should always be done before storing the housing and before a first dive after taking the housing out of storage.

2.It is important never to use a sharp instrument when removing an o-ring as this may cause damage to the o-ring or the o-ring groove. A hairpin or a credit card works well.

3.The removed o-ring should be examined for damage. Check to make sure that the o-ring is free from nicks and cuts and that it retains its original round profile. O-rings that appear to be damaged should be discarded immediately and replaced with new o-rings.

4.Rinse the o-ring with freshwater and dry it with a clean lint free cloth.

5.Clean the o-ring grooves (where the o-rings sit) with a Q-tip. Be sure to remove any lint the Q-tip may leave behind. Inspect the groove for damage.

6.Wipe the part of the housing that the o-ring seals against with a clean lint free cloth.

7.Re-grease the o-rings with a thin layer of silicon grease until it appears to be smooth and shiny. Do not over grease it - use just enough grease so that the o-ring will pull smoothly through your fingers. Excessive amounts will only attract dirt to the o-ring.

8.Replace o-rings in their proper position on the lens assembly and on the main door seal.

HVR-Z1, HDR-FX1 specifications

The Sony HDR-FX1 is a pioneering high-definition camcorder that garnered significant attention upon its release in 2004. It is especially noted for being one of the first camcorders to offer true 1080i high-definition recording capabilities, catering to both amateur filmmakers and professionals alike. Equipped with a 1/3-inch CMOS sensor, the FX1 captures stunningly detailed images, ensuring that each frame is rich in color and clarity.

One of the notable features of the HDR-FX1 is its advanced imaging technology, including the use of Sony’s ClearVid sensor and a 3D Color Filter. This combination enhances the camera's ability to render vibrant colors and fine details, providing beautiful images even in challenging lighting conditions. The FX1 supports a 16:9 aspect ratio, allowing users to create cinematic productions with ease.

The camcorder also features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens with a focal length of 5.4 to 64.8 mm (35mm equivalent: 40 to 480 mm), which provides excellent optical performance and versatility. The lens has a remarkable maximum aperture of f/1.6, allowing for great low-light performance and beautiful bokeh effects. The optical image stabilization system further enhances the shooting experience by minimizing the effects of camera shake, making it easier to capture steady footage.

Sony's HDR-FX1 adopts the HDV format for high-definition video recording, utilizing a standard MiniDV tape, which was innovative for its time. This allowed filmmakers to easily transfer footage to their editing systems without needing extensive additional equipment. Additionally, the FX1 features a built-in HDMI output, enabling direct connection to high-definition displays for detailed playback of recorded footage.

The camcorder includes a range of manual controls, such as focus, iris, and shutter speed, which provide users with the flexibility to fine-tune their settings. A 3.5-inch swing-out LCD screen allows for easy monitoring and composition, while an electronic viewfinder ensures accurate framing in bright conditions.

Overall, the Sony HDR-FX1 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of video technology, combining accessibility with professional features, making it a beloved choice among videographers and filmmakers looking to dive into the world of high-definition video. Its legacy continues to influence subsequent camcorder designs and remains a respected model in the realm of digital filmmaking.