When to maintain the O-ring seal

The O-ring seal is the main barrier between the water outside and the air space within the camera. It is an effective barrier only if the seal is properly maintained. The O-ring seal should be inspected before every dive. The following information is provided for guidance in using and maintaining the O-ring seal.

4.2 Maintaining the O-ring Seal

If the main body to lid O-rings is not installed, install the O-rings before diving. Their care and maintenance are critical to the watertight integrity of the housing. If the O-rings are contaminated, or not already installed; inspect, grease and install the O-rings according to the following guidelines.

4.3Inspection, cleaning and re-instillation of the O-rings Tools

A soft cotton bud or sponge applicator, make sure these are free of all contamination such as loose fibers and sand, the tube of silicone grease supplied with the housing. Note other types of silicone grease specifically for use with underwater camera equipment can usually also be used. It is advised to carry out the following procedure on a firm clean level surface, (e.g. at a table), to prevent skidding especially when diving from a boat.

Remove the O-ring periodically for inspection. It is not necessary to remove, clean and re-install the O-ring after every dive provided the O-rings are not become contaminated. As a rule of thumbs，set up the camera and housing before a day’s diving. If the housing is required to be opened between dives for changing memory card or re-charging batteries, make sure the outside of the housing is thoroughly toweled dry before opening up. After removing the lid and servicing the camera, replace the lid straight away, rather than leaving it lying around. Before replacing the lid, check the o-rings and make sure that no contamination such as dust, hair, salt, sand etc. has fallen onto the O-ring or O-ring recess, as a precaution we recommend to inspect the O-ring every time the lid is opened and to carry out the maintenance only if necessary.

LX5 specifications

The Panasonic LX5 is a remarkable compact digital camera that has garnered attention for its blend of performance, portability, and advanced features. First released in 2011, it resides within Panasonic's Lumix line, celebrated for its practicality, especially among photography enthusiasts seeking a high-quality compact option.

At the heart of the LX5 is its 10.1-megapixel CCD sensor, which excels in low-light conditions, delivering impressive image quality. This size and technology ensure that the camera can capture vibrant details even in challenging lighting scenarios. The camera also incorporates the Venus Engine FHD, which enhances image processing speed and quality, providing cleaner images with minimal noise and excellent color fidelity.

One of the standout features of the LX5 is its fast Leica DC Vario-Summicron lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.0. This lens contributes not only to superior image quality but also to versatility, allowing for shallow depth of field effects and exceptional low-light performance. The 24mm wide-angle capability further enhances its adaptability, making it ideal for landscapes, group shots, and indoor photography where space is limited.

Users benefit from a 3.0-inch LCD screen that offers high resolution, providing a clear view for composing shots, even in bright sunlight. The LX5 also includes a built-in optical viewfinder, giving photographers a more traditional shooting option that many users still prefer, especially in bright conditions.

For enthusiasts looking to take full control, the LX5 boasts an array of manual settings including aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. This versatility allows experienced users to experiment with various shooting techniques, while automatic modes are readily available for those who prefer a more hands-off approach.

The Panasonic LX5 also supports full HD video recording at 1080p, making it a dual-purpose tool for both photography and videography. Additional features include various scene modes and creative filters, enabling users to express their artistic vision directly through the camera.

In terms of connectivity, the LX5 can easily transfer images via USB, and while it lacks built-in Wi-Fi, users can connect to their devices through memory card access. The overall build quality of the camera is solid, featuring a durable metal body that enhances its portability while allowing it to withstand everyday use.

In summary, the Panasonic LX5 remains a respected model in the compact camera market, thanks to its impressive lens, advanced imaging technologies, and user-friendly features, making it an appealing choice for both casual photographers and serious enthusiasts alike.