Canon eos5d manual IV. Performance and Reliability

IV. PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY 33

Improved Viewfinder The optical viewfinders on both cameras has been improved slightly, although the EOS 5D Experience Mark II boasts the majority of changes. Its newly-developed pentaprism viewfinder now

features 98% coverage compared to 96% on the EOS 5D, a clearer and crisper image, and a more comfortable 21mm eye point relief (compared to 20mm on the 5D). In addition, the Data Display in both viewfinders now includes a battery check indicator, an ISO speed number, a “D+” indicator when Highlight Tone Priority is activated, and a “B/W” symbol appears when the camera is set to black and white mode.

Rugged Construction Both cameras share nearly all of the same internal and external body construction features found in their predecessors. These include rugged magnesium alloy main covers on the top, front, and rear (with the grip integrated into the front cover), for light weight and high strength. The stainless steel chassis is solidly fixed to the mirror box, which is made of engineering plastic to prevent any change in the flange focal distance when using heavy lenses. Extra care has been taken in the selection of moving parts in order to reduce the chance for microscopic particles that would cause dust spots on the sensor. The left side, which includes connectors such as the HDMI and audio video out terminals, is also made of engineering plastic with excellent electromagnetic shielding properties. Tight attached, weather-resistant rubber flaps cover these connectors.

EOS 5D Mark II Magnesium Alloy Body EOS 50D Magnesium Alloy Body

In both camera bodies, the weather and dust seals have been improved around the battery compartments and memory card doors, and increased precision in the alignment of the magnesium alloy external cover seams and in the optimal design of camera parts and structures contribute to the cameras’ dust and water resistance. Internal gaskets and sealing materials are used extensively at the cameras’ buttons, tripod sockets, and surrounding the LCDs. As a result, the EOS 5D Mark II now has dust and water resistance that is almost equal to that of the EOS-1N—Canon’s top-of-the-line professional 35mm SLR for most of the 1990’s.