Introduction
The Seafrogs SF-PH-01 PRO is a professional-grade waterproof housing designed for Android and iPhone smartphones, enabling underwater photography and videography down to a depth of 40 meters (130 feet). Featuring robust construction, a vacuum pump system for leak detection, and Bluetooth control, this housing provides 360-degree all-around protection for your device during various water activities.
Figure 1: Seafrogs SF-PH-01 PRO housing with accessories.
Package Contents
Ensure all the following items are present in your package:
- Seafrogs SF-PH-01 PRO Underwater Housing for Android and iPhone
- User Manual (this document)
- Spare O'ring
- Silicone Grease
- Cleaning Cloth
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Waterproof Depth | 40m / 130ft |
| Waterproof Index | IPX8 |
| Applicable Temperature | 0°C - 40°C (32°F - 104°F) |
| Supported Operating Systems | iOS 13.0.0 and above, Android 7.0.0 and above, HarmonyOS 2.0.0 and above |
| Internal Dimensions (L x W x D) | 175mm x 85mm x 8mm |
| Key Features | Bluetooth Phone Connection (no app needed), Inbuilt Red & Magenta Filters (changeable), 1/4" Mounting Holes, Cold Shoe Mount, Vacuum Pump System |
Figure 2: External dimensions of the housing.
Figure 3: Internal dimensions for phone fitment.
Setup
- Check Phone Compatibility: Before use, ensure your smartphone fits within the internal dimensions of the housing (175mm L x 85mm W x 8mm D). Remove any phone cases or accessories that might prevent a proper fit.
- O-ring Inspection and Lubrication: Carefully inspect the main O-ring seal for any dust, hair, or debris. Clean it with the provided cleaning cloth. Apply a thin, even layer of the included silicone grease to the O-ring to maintain its flexibility and sealing properties.
- Initial Water Test (without phone):
- Close the housing securely without your phone inside.
- Submerge the empty housing in a sink or bucket of water for at least 30 minutes.
- Observe for any bubbles or water ingress. If any leaks are detected, re-inspect the O-ring and sealing mechanism. Do not proceed with your phone if a leak is found.
- Install Smartphone: Open the housing and carefully place your smartphone inside, ensuring it is centered and the screen is accessible through the clear back panel. Close the housing firmly, ensuring the latches are fully engaged.
- Vacuum Pump System (Optional but Recommended): The housing features a vacuum pump system interface. If you have a compatible Seafrogs vacuum pump device (sold separately), connect it to the housing to create a vacuum. This allows for quick and accurate detection of any potential leaks before submerging the housing with your phone.
- Bluetooth Connection: The SF-PH-01 PRO connects directly to your phone via Bluetooth, eliminating the need for a dedicated app. Activate Bluetooth on your phone and pair it with the housing. This enables control of your phone's camera functions via the housing's buttons.
Figure 4: Vacuum pump system interface.
Figure 5: Bluetooth control for smartphone.
Operating Instructions
Basic Operation
Once your phone is securely installed and Bluetooth is connected, you can use the physical buttons on the housing to control your phone's camera functions (e.g., shutter, video recording, zoom). Refer to your phone's camera interface and the housing's button layout for specific controls.
Using Filters and Lenses
The SF-PH-01 PRO supports various external accessories to enhance your underwater photography:
- Color Filters: The housing has inbuilt red and magenta filters, which can be changed. These are essential for correcting color shifts underwater, especially at deeper depths where red light is absorbed.
- External Lenses: The housing is compatible with 67mm threaded lenses, such as wide-angle lenses or fisheye lenses, to expand your field of view.
Figure 6: Underwater color correction with a filter.
Figure 7: Fisheye lens effect underwater.
Cold Shoe Mount
Utilize the cold shoe mount on top of the housing to attach additional lighting sources, such as underwater video lights, to illuminate your subjects and improve image quality in low-light conditions.
Figure 8: Accessories expansion with external lights and lenses.
Maintenance
- Rinse After Use: After each use in saltwater, thoroughly rinse the housing with fresh water. Operate all buttons and rotate the control knob while rinsing to flush out any salt crystals.
- Dry Thoroughly: Dry the housing completely with a soft, lint-free cloth. Pay special attention to the O-ring groove and sealing surfaces.
- O-ring Care: Periodically remove the O-ring, clean its groove, and re-lubricate it with silicone grease. Replace the O-ring if it shows any signs of wear, cracks, or deformation.
- Storage: Store the housing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the housing latches open during storage to prevent compression of the O-ring.
Troubleshooting
Water Leakage
- Cause: Improperly seated O-ring, debris on O-ring, damaged O-ring, or housing not securely closed.
- Solution: Immediately remove the housing from water. Open, inspect, clean, and re-lubricate the O-ring. Ensure the housing is closed correctly and latches are fully engaged. Perform another water test without the phone. If leaks persist, replace the O-ring.
Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Cause: Phone's Bluetooth is off, housing battery low, or interference.
- Solution: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone. Check the housing's battery level and replace if necessary. Try re-pairing the device.
Internal Fogging
- Cause: Humidity trapped inside the housing, temperature difference between inside and outside.
- Solution: Ensure the housing and phone are completely dry before sealing. Use anti-fog inserts (desiccants) inside the housing to absorb moisture.
User Tips
- Phone Case Compatibility: The internal dimensions of the housing are 175mm (L) x 85mm (W) x 8mm (D). If you typically use a protective case on your phone (e.g., Otterbox), you will likely need to remove it before placing your phone into the Seafrogs housing to ensure a proper fit and seal. Always measure your phone with its case if you intend to use it, but it is generally recommended to use the phone without any additional cases inside the housing.
- Pre-Dive Checklist: Always perform a quick visual inspection of the O-ring, sealing surfaces, and latches before each dive.
- Battery Life: Ensure your phone and the housing's Bluetooth control have sufficient battery life for your planned activity.
- Practice: Familiarize yourself with the housing's controls and your phone's camera settings in a dry environment before taking it underwater.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the documentation provided at the point of purchase or contact the seller directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.