Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Autofocus VR Zoom Nikkor Lens User Manual

Introduction

The Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Autofocus VR Zoom Nikkor Lens is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon SLR cameras. It features a compact and lightweight design, offering a 5x telephoto zoom range. This lens incorporates Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, providing enhanced stability for handheld shooting, and Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements for superior optical performance.

Figure 1: The Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Autofocus VR Zoom Nikkor Lens.

Key features include:

• Compact, lightweight 5x telephoto zoom lens
• Vibration Reduction operation offers the equivalent of using a shutter speed three stops faster
• VR automatically detected during panning operation
• Three ED glass elements ensure superior optical performance
• Nine-blade rounded diaphragm achieves a natural blur for out-of-focus elements

What's in the Box

Upon unboxing your Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Autofocus VR Zoom Nikkor Lens, please ensure all the following items are present:

• Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Autofocus VR Zoom Nikkor Lens
• 77mm snap-on front lens cap
• Rear lens cap LF-1
• Bayonet hood HB-26
• Soft pouch CL-M1

Setup

Attaching the Lens

To attach the lens to your Nikon SLR camera, align the mounting index on the lens barrel with the corresponding index on the camera body. Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks securely into place. Ensure the lens is firmly attached before use.

Detaching the Lens

To detach the lens, press and hold the lens release button on the camera body while rotating the lens counter-clockwise until it stops. Carefully remove the lens from the camera body. Always attach the rear lens cap immediately after detaching to protect the rear element and electrical contacts.

Figure 2: Rear view of the lens, highlighting the lens mount for attachment to the camera body.

Operating the Lens

Autofocus (AF) and Manual Focus (M)

The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus. D-type and G-type Nikkors relay subject-to-camera distance information to compatible AF Nikon camera bodies, enabling advanced metering and flash control features. This lens features a fast and silent AF-S motor, allowing for full-time manual focus override. This means you can fine-tune focus manually even when in autofocus mode.

Figure 3: Side view of the lens, showing the AF/M switch and other controls.

Vibration Reduction (VR)

This innovative VR system minimizes image blur caused by camera shake, offering the equivalent of shooting at a shutter speed three stops (eight times) faster. It allows handheld shooting in low-light conditions, such as dusk, at night, and in poorly lit interiors. The lens' VR system also automatically detects when the photographer pans, eliminating the need for a special mode.

VR operation works with compatible Nikon camera bodies including the F6, F5, F100, F80, F75, F65, D2-series, D1-series, D100, D70-series, and D50 cameras.

ED Glass Elements

Nikon developed ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass to produce lenses with superior sharpness and color correction by minimizing chromatic aberration. This lens incorporates three ED glass elements, ensuring high contrast and optical performance even at maximum apertures. This technology helps to deliver clear and vibrant images.

Nikon Super Integrated Coating

To enhance optical performance, Nikon employs an exclusive multilayer lens coating that helps reduce ghosting and flare to a negligible level. This coating minimizes reflection across a wider wavelength range and ensures superior color balance and reproduction. It is particularly effective for zoom lenses with multiple elements, contributing to the overall image quality.

Focus Range Limiter

The lens features a focus range lock feature and a focus limit switch. This allows you to restrict the autofocus range, which can speed up focusing when shooting subjects within a specific distance range. For example, you can set it to focus only on distant subjects, preventing the lens from hunting through the entire focus range.

Maintenance

General Care

Always handle your lens with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting it to strong impacts. When not in use, keep the front and rear lens caps attached to protect the optical elements. Store the lens in its soft pouch (CL-M1) to prevent scratches and dust accumulation.

Figure 4: The lens shown with its protective soft pouch and lens hood.

Cleaning the Lens

To clean the lens surfaces, first use a blower brush to remove any loose dust or debris. For smudges or fingerprints, use a clean, soft microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical lenses. Apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to the cloth, not directly to the lens, and gently wipe in a circular motion from the center outwards. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.

Storage

Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If storing for an extended period, consider using a desiccant to prevent mold and mildew growth, especially in humid environments.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Legal Disclaimer

This product is a USA model with serial #US234229. It comes with a full 14-day satisfaction guarantee and a 90-day parts and labor warranty. Please refer to the official Nikon warranty documentation for complete terms and conditions.

Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries, please visit the official Nikon website or contact Nikon customer service. Keep your purchase receipt and product serial number handy for any warranty claims.

Official Nikon Store: Visit the Nikon Store on Amazon