Manuals+

AOI UH-EM10 IV

AOI UH-EM10 IV Underwater Housing User Manual

For Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Camera

1. Introduction

This user manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation and maintenance of your AOI UH-EM10 IV Underwater Housing. This housing is specifically designed for the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV camera, allowing it to be used for underwater photography and videography down to a depth of 45 meters. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product.

Front view of AOI UH-EM10 IV underwater housings in black and white
Figure 1: AOI UH-EM10 IV Underwater Housing (Black and White variants)

2. Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NumberAOI UH-EM10 IV
Compatible CameraOlympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
Housing MaterialPolycarbonate
Depth Rating45 Meters (147 feet)
Lens Port SystemAOI / Olympus PEN Ports System
Built-in LED Flash TriggerCompatible with Manual Flash Trigger (with and without Pre-flashes Functions) and Olympus RC Mode (TTL AUTO, MANUAL, FP TTL AUTO, FP MANUAL)
Water Leakage ProtectionBuilt-in Vacuum Analyzation and Wet Detection System (VWS)
Internal BatteryRechargeable Lithium Polymer Battery (3.7V 110mAH)
Battery ChargingUSB Charger DC5V, 0.5A (not included). Approx. 1.5 hours for full charge.
Battery Operation TimeApprox. 2 Days (based on 3 dives/day and 1 hour/dive)
Dimensions177.9mm (W) x 139.8mm (H) x 151.2mm (D)
Weight (on land)Approx. 835 g (Housing Body and Flat Port only)
Available ColorsBlack, White
AOI OM-D Mount Housing Ports Chart showing compatibility with various lenses, focus/zoom gears, extension rings, ports, quick release systems, and wet lenses.
Figure 2: AOI OM-D Mount Housing Ports Chart. Refer to this chart for compatible lenses and accessories.

3. Package Contents

Upon opening the package, please verify that all items are present and in good condition:

  • AOI UH-EM10 IV Underwater Housing (Black or White)
  • Flat Port (specific model may vary)
  • USB Charging Cable (for internal battery)
  • O-ring Removal Tool
  • Silicone Grease for O-rings
  • Moisture Absorbent Packets
  • Wrist Lanyard
  • User Manual (this document)
Cardboard box packaging for the AOI UH-EM10 IV underwater housing
Figure 3: Product packaging.

4. Setup Guide

4.1 Initial Battery Charge

Before first use, fully charge the internal Lithium Polymer battery of the housing. This battery powers the Vacuum Analyzation and Wet Detection System (VWS) and the built-in LED flash trigger.

  1. Locate the USB Type-C charging port on the housing (refer to Figure 4).
  2. Connect the provided USB charging cable to the housing and to a DC5V, 0.5A USB power adapter (not included).
  3. The charging indicator will show the charging status. A full charge takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Close-up of the white housing showing the USB Type-C charging port and the ON/OFF switch for the internal electronics.
Figure 4: USB Type-C charging port and ON/OFF switch.

4.2 Camera Installation

Ensure your Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV camera is clean, dry, and has a fully charged battery and memory card installed before placing it into the housing.

  1. Unlock the housing latch. The latch mechanism is typically located on the side of the housing (see Figure 5). Slide the red lock button to "OPEN" and then open the main latch.
  2. Carefully open the housing back door (see Figure 6 and 7).
  3. Inspect the main O-ring for any dirt, hair, or debris. Clean it gently with a lint-free cloth if necessary. Apply a thin, even layer of silicone grease to the O-ring.
  4. Align your camera with the mounting plate inside the housing. Gently slide the camera into position, ensuring it sits securely and all controls align with the housing's buttons and dials.
  5. Close the housing back door, ensuring the O-ring is properly seated and not pinched.
  6. Secure the main latch and slide the red lock button to "LOCK".
Close-up of the white housing's side latch mechanism with 'OPEN' and 'LOCK' indicators and a red safety button.
Figure 5: Housing latch mechanism.
White housing opened, showing the camera compartment with an Olympus E-M10 Mark IV camera installed.
Figure 6: Housing with camera installed.
White housing opened, showing the empty camera compartment and the main O-ring seal.
Figure 7: Housing interior and O-ring.

4.3 Lens Port Attachment

Attach the appropriate lens port for your chosen lens. Refer to the AOI OM-D Mount Housing Ports Chart (Figure 2) for compatibility.

  1. Ensure the lens port's O-ring is clean and lightly greased.
  2. Align the lens port with the housing's port opening.
  3. Gently push and twist the port until it locks securely into place.

4.4 Vacuum Analyzation and Wet Detection System (VWS)

The VWS is a critical safety feature. Always perform a vacuum test before submerging the housing.

  1. Turn on the internal electronics of the housing using the ON/OFF switch (Figure 4).
  2. Locate the vacuum valve on the housing.
  3. Attach the vacuum pump (sold separately) to the valve and pump until the indicator light shows a stable "OK" or "Green" status, indicating a successful vacuum seal.
  4. Allow the housing to sit for 10-15 minutes to ensure the vacuum holds. If the indicator changes to "Warning" or "Red", there is a leak. Do not submerge the housing.
  5. The VWS also includes a wet detection system that will alert you if moisture is detected inside the housing.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Pre-Dive Check

  • Confirm the camera is correctly installed and powered on.
  • Verify the housing is securely closed and locked.
  • Ensure the lens port is correctly attached.
  • Perform and confirm a successful vacuum test.
  • Check all buttons and dials on the housing to ensure they operate smoothly and engage the camera controls.
Front view of the black AOI UH-EM10 IV underwater housing with a lens port attached.
Figure 8: Black housing with lens port.

5.2 Underwater Operation

All camera functions accessible via the housing's external controls can be operated underwater. Familiarize yourself with the button layout before diving.

  • Use the shutter lever to take photos.
  • Adjust camera settings using the control dials and buttons, which are designed to mimic the camera's native controls.
  • The housing is rated for a maximum depth of 45 meters. Do not exceed this depth.
Rear view of the black AOI UH-EM10 IV underwater housing, showing the camera's LCD screen and control buttons.
Figure 9: Rear view with camera controls.

5.3 Using the Built-in LED Flash Trigger

The housing features a built-in LED flash trigger compatible with external strobes.

  • Connect your external strobe(s) to the housing's fiber optic ports (Figure 10).
  • The trigger supports Manual Flash Trigger (with and without Pre-flashes Functions) and Olympus RC Mode (TTL AUTO, MANUAL, FP TTL AUTO, FP MANUAL).
  • Refer to your external strobe's manual for specific settings and synchronization.
Bottom view of the black housing showing multiple fiber optic ports for external strobes.
Figure 10: Fiber optic ports for external strobes.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Post-Dive Care

  1. Immediately after each dive, rinse the housing thoroughly in fresh water for at least 15-20 minutes. Operate all buttons and rotate all dials while rinsing to flush out any trapped salt or debris.
  2. Do not open the housing until it is completely dry, especially around the main O-ring seal.
  3. Dry the housing with a soft, lint-free towel.

6.2 O-Ring Care

The O-rings are crucial for maintaining the waterproof seal. Proper care is essential.

  • After every few dives, or if you notice any debris, remove the main O-ring using the provided O-ring removal tool.
  • Inspect the O-ring for any nicks, cuts, or deformities. Replace if damaged.
  • Clean the O-ring and its groove on the housing with a clean, lint-free cloth.
  • Apply a very thin, even layer of silicone grease to the O-ring. Do not over-grease, as this can attract debris.
  • Carefully re-install the O-ring, ensuring it sits flat and is not twisted.

6.3 Battery Care

  • Recharge the internal battery as needed. Avoid completely draining the battery.
  • For long-term storage, charge the battery to approximately 50-70%.
  • Store the housing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

7. Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
VWS alarm sounds / Red indicatorLeak in the seal, O-ring dirty/damaged, housing not closed properly.Do NOT submerge. Open housing, inspect and clean/replace O-rings, ensure proper closure. Re-test vacuum.
Water detected inside housing (Wet Detection)Water ingress due to seal failure.Immediately surface and open housing. Remove camera, dry thoroughly. Inspect housing for damage. Do not use until the cause is identified and fixed.
Camera controls not respondingCamera not seated correctly, housing buttons/dials misaligned, camera battery low.Ensure camera is properly seated. Check camera battery. If problem persists, open and re-install camera carefully.
Housing fogs up internallyHumidity trapped inside, temperature difference.Place moisture absorbent packets inside the housing before closing. Avoid assembling in humid environments.

8. User Tips

  • Always perform a dry run: Before your first dive with the housing, practice installing and removing the camera, and operating all controls on land to build familiarity.
  • Double-check everything: Before every dive, meticulously check O-rings, seals, and the vacuum test result. A small oversight can lead to significant damage.
  • Use moisture absorbers: Even with a perfect seal, humidity can cause fogging. Always place fresh moisture absorbent packets inside the housing.
  • Consider a lanyard: Attach a wrist or neck lanyard to the housing to prevent accidental drops.
  • Practice buoyancy: An underwater housing can affect your camera's buoyancy. Practice in shallow water to understand how it handles.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized AOI dealer or the seller from whom you purchased this product. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Regularly check the manufacturer's website for updated manuals, firmware, and accessory information.

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