Nikon Coolpix 5400 Digital Camera Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and care of your Nikon Coolpix 5400 5.1 MP Digital Camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the camera to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The Nikon Coolpix 5400 features a 5.1-megapixel sensor, 4x optical zoom, and a range of advanced photographic functions designed for versatile image capture.

1. Setup

1.1 Battery Installation

The Nikon Coolpix 5400 uses a rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL1 battery. Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the camera.
2. Slide the latch to open the cover.
3. Insert the EN-EL1 battery with the correct orientation, matching the contacts.
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely until it clicks into place.

1.2 Memory Card Installation

The camera supports Type I or Type II CompactFlash cards and is compatible with 512 MB and 1GB MicroDrives.

1. Locate the CompactFlash card slot cover on the side of the camera.
2. Open the cover.
3. Insert the CompactFlash card into the slot with the correct orientation until it is fully seated.
4. Close the card slot cover securely.

1.3 Initial Power On

After installing the battery and memory card, press the power button to turn on the camera. The LCD monitor will display the initial setup screen, where you can set the date and time.

2. Operating the Camera

2.1 Camera Components

Familiarize yourself with the camera's external features and controls.

Image 1: Front View. This image displays the front of the Nikon Coolpix 5400 camera, highlighting the main lens assembly, the built-in flash unit, and the optical viewfinder. The Nikon Coolpix 5400 branding is visible above the lens.

Image 2: Top View. This image shows the top panel of the Nikon Coolpix 5400, featuring the mode dial with various shooting settings (P, S, A, M, Scene, ISO, WB), the power on/off switch, the shutter release button, and a hot shoe for external flash units.

Image 3: Side View. This image illustrates the side of the Nikon Coolpix 5400, where the memory card compartment cover is located. Also visible is the DC IN port for connecting an optional AC adapter.

Image 4: Bottom View. This image displays the bottom of the Nikon Coolpix 5400, showing the battery compartment, the tripod mount thread, and regulatory information including the 'Made in Korea' label.

2.2 Basic Photography

To take a picture:

1. Turn on the camera using the power switch.
2. Select a shooting mode using the command dial (e.g., 'P' for Programmed Auto).
3. Frame your shot using the Vari-Angle LCD monitor or the viewfinder.
4. Press the shutter release button halfway down to activate autofocus and exposure metering.
5. Press the shutter release button fully to capture the image.

2.3 Shooting Modes

The Coolpix 5400 offers various shooting modes for different scenarios:

• Programmed Auto (P): Camera sets both aperture and shutter speed for optimal exposure.
• Shutter-Priority Auto (S): You set the shutter speed, camera sets aperture. Ideal for controlling motion blur.
• Aperture-Priority Auto (A): You set the aperture, camera sets shutter speed. Ideal for controlling depth of field.
• Manual (M): You set both aperture and shutter speed for full creative control.
• Scene Modes: 15 preset modes for specific situations like Portrait, Landscape, Night Portrait, Sports, Beach/Snow, Fireworks, etc.

2.4 Focusing and Metering

• Autofocus: The camera uses contrast detection autofocus. Press the shutter button halfway to focus.
• Ultra Macro Mode: Allows close-up photography from as near as 0.4 inches.
• Metering: Choose from 256-segment Matrix, Center-Weighted, Spot, or AF Spot metering modes to accurately measure light.

2.5 Flash Modes

The built-in flash offers several modes:

• Auto Flash: Fires automatically in low light.
• Fill Flash: Fires regardless of ambient light.
• Red-Eye Reduction: Fires a pre-flash to reduce red-eye effect.
• Slow Sync: Combines flash with slow shutter speeds for balanced background and subject exposure in low light.
• Rear Curtain Sync: Flash fires just before the second curtain closes, creating natural-looking light trails for moving subjects.
• Repeating Flash: Fires multiple times during a single exposure to capture sequential movement.
• A hot shoe is available for attaching compatible external Speedlight flash units.

2.6 Advanced Features

• Best Shot Selector (BSS): Captures five consecutive shots and automatically saves only the sharpest image.
• Auto Exposure AE-BSS: Compares tonal range and gradation of five consecutive shots, saving the best exposure based on user-selected criteria (Highlight, Shadow, or Histogram detail).
• Vari-Angle LCD: The 1.5-inch LCD monitor can be rotated and tilted for flexible shooting angles and improved visibility in bright conditions.
• Accessory Lenses: Compatible with various Nikon accessory lenses, including teleconverters (TC-E15ED), wide-angle adapters (WC-E80), and fisheye converters (FC-E9).

2.7 Video Recording

The camera can record QuickTime video with audio.

• TV Movie Mode (640x480): Records up to 70 seconds of video with audio.
• Small Movie Mode (320x240): Records up to 180 seconds of video with audio.
• Time-Lapse: With an optional AC adapter, the camera can capture time-lapse sequences as QuickTime movies.

3. Data Management

3.1 Image Storage

Images are stored on the inserted CompactFlash card or MicroDrive in either uncompressed TIFF-RGB format or compressed JPEG format.

3.2 Transferring Images to a Computer

Connect the camera to a computer using the supplied USB 1.1 cable. The camera will appear as a removable disk, allowing you to copy images directly. Alternatively, use the included NikonView 6 software for more advanced management.

3.3 Included Software

• NikonView 6: For viewing, organizing, and basic editing of images. Includes One-Touch Red-Eye Fix software for automatic red-eye correction.
• ArcSoft PhotoStudio: Image manipulation and enhancement.
• ArcSoft VideoImpression: Editing and sharing QuickTime movies.
• ArcSoft Panorama Maker: Stitching multiple images to create panoramic photos.
• PhotoBase: For downloading and displaying photos and slideshows on PDAs.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Battery Care

• Always use the supplied external battery charger to charge the EN-EL1 Li-ion battery.
• Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures.
• If the camera will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery.

4.2 Cleaning

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body.
• For the lens and LCD screen, use a specialized lens cleaning cloth and solution. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Never touch the lens or sensor directly with your fingers.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Nikon Coolpix 5400, consider the following:

• Camera not powering on: Ensure the battery is charged and correctly inserted.
• Images are blurry: Check focus settings, ensure adequate lighting, and use a tripod in low-light conditions or with slow shutter speeds.
• Memory card error: Reinsert the memory card, try a different compatible card, or format the card (note: formatting erases all data).
• Flash not firing: Check flash mode settings. Ensure the flash is not disabled.
• Connection issues with computer: Verify USB cable connection. Ensure camera drivers are installed if required by your operating system.

For persistent issues, consult the Nikon support website or contact customer service.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

7.1 Warranty Information

The Nikon Coolpix 5400 typically comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. Please refer to your warranty card or Nikon's official website for specific terms and conditions.

7.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or further inquiries, please visit the official Nikon support website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt and camera serial number (located on the bottom of the camera) handy when seeking support.

8. Package Contents

The Nikon Coolpix 5400 package typically includes:

• Nikon Coolpix 5400 Digital Camera
• Lens Cap
• Camera Strap
• AV Cable
• Nikon Coolpix Starter Memory Card (16 MB)
• USB Cable
• Rechargeable Li-ion Battery (EN-EL1)
• External Battery Charger
• NikonView 6 Software CD-ROM