Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Minolta Dimage G400 digital camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the camera and keep it for future reference. The Minolta Dimage G400 is a compact 4.0-megapixel digital camera featuring a 3x optical zoom lens, designed for capturing high-quality still images and video clips.
Setup
1. Unpacking and Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Minolta Dimage G400 Digital Camera
- 16 MB SD Memory Card
- Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery (BP-600)
- Battery Charger (BP-600U)
- USB Cable (USB-810)
- Neck Strap (NS-DG130)
- Dimage Viewer CD-ROM
- Instruction Manual CD-ROM
- Quick-Start Guide
2. Battery Installation and Charging
The camera uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (BP-600). Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.
- Locate the battery/card compartment door on the bottom of the camera.
- Slide the latch to open the compartment door.
- Insert the BP-600 battery into the compartment with the correct orientation, matching the polarity indicators.
- Close the compartment door securely until it clicks into place.
- To charge the battery, insert it into the BP-600U charger and plug the charger into a power outlet. The charging indicator will show the charging status.
Figure 1: Bottom view of the Minolta Dimage G400, illustrating the battery and memory card compartment. The tripod mount is also visible.
3. Memory Card Installation
The Dimage G400 supports both Secure Digital (SD) memory cards and Memory Sticks. It features dual card slots.
- Open the battery/card compartment door as described above.
- Insert the SD card or Memory Stick into the appropriate slot until it clicks into place. Ensure the card is inserted in the correct direction.
- Close the compartment door securely.
A 16 MB SD card is included, capable of storing approximately 16 images in Normal, 4-megapixel mode.
Operating the Camera
1. Powering On/Off
To power on the camera, slide the lens cover open. The camera has a fast start-up time of approximately 0.7 seconds. To power off, slide the lens cover closed.
Figure 2: Front view of the Minolta Dimage G400 with the lens extended, indicating the camera is powered on and ready to capture images.
Figure 3: Front view of the Minolta Dimage G400 with the lens retracted, indicating the camera is powered off or in standby mode.
2. Basic Controls and Display
The camera features a 1.5-inch TFT color monitor and an optical real-image viewfinder. Controls for navigation, menu access, and zoom are located on the rear panel.
Figure 4: Rear view of the Minolta Dimage G400, showing the LCD screen with the menu interface for adjusting settings.
3. Taking Still Photos
The Dimage G400 captures images at a 4.0-megapixel resolution (2272 x 1704 pixels) for high-quality prints up to 11 x 17 inches. Lower resolutions (1600 x 1200, 640 x 480) are also available.
- Zoom: Use the zoom controls (Wide/Tele) to adjust the 3x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 34-101mm on a 35mm camera) and 2x digital zoom.
- Focus: The camera employs Rapid AF for quick and precise focusing. It uses a passive AF sensor and the CCD to determine the focus point.
- Exposure: Programmed exposure modes are available.
- Flash Modes: Select from multiple flash modes including Auto, On/Fill, Off, Slow Sync, and Red-eye Reduction.
- Scene Modes: Choose from six scene modes: Portrait, Scenery, Night, Snapshot, Sports, and Angel.
- White Balance: Automatic, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, and Fluorescent settings are available.
- Continuous Shooting: Capture up to 3 frames at 2.5 frames per second.
- Self-Timer: Use the self-timer for delayed shots.
To take a photo, compose your shot using the LCD or viewfinder, press the shutter button halfway to focus, then press fully to capture the image.
4. Recording Movies with Audio
The camera can record movie clips with audio. Refer to the on-screen menu for specific settings and recording duration limitations based on memory card capacity.
5. Viewing and Managing Images
Press the playback button to review captured images and videos on the LCD screen. You can magnify images and scroll through them using the directional controls.
Figure 5: Rear view of the Minolta Dimage G400, showing the LCD screen displaying a previously captured image in playback mode.
The e-mail copy function allows you to create smaller 640 x 480 or 160 x 120 JPEG copies for easy internet transfer.
6. Transferring Images to a Computer
Connect the camera to a Windows Me/2000/XP or Mac OS 8.6 or later computer using the supplied USB cable (USB 1.1 compatible). The camera will be recognized as a removable storage device, allowing you to transfer files without additional software installation.
Maintenance
- Cleaning the Camera Body: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera body. For stubborn dirt, lightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid using strong cleaning agents.
- Cleaning the Lens: Use a lens brush or a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for camera lenses. Avoid touching the lens surface with your fingers.
- LCD Screen Care: Clean the LCD screen with a soft, dry cloth. Do not press hard on the screen.
- Battery Care: Store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently to prolong its lifespan.
- Storage: When storing the camera for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment, ideally in a protective case.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Camera does not power on. |
|
| Cannot take pictures. |
|
| Images are blurry. |
|
| Flash does not fire. |
|
| Cannot transfer images to computer. |
|
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Minolta Dimage G400 |
| Photo Sensor Resolution | 4 MP |
| Optical Zoom | 3x |
| Digital Zoom | 2x |
| Lens | GT Hexanon zoom lens (5.6-16.8mm, equivalent to 34-101mm on 35mm) |
| Screen Size | 1.5 Inches TFT Color LCD |
| Viewfinder | Optical |
| Image Stabilization | Digital, Optical |
| Supported File Format | JPEG, RAW |
| Compatible Flash Memory | SD/MMC card, Memory Stick |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion (BP-600) |
| Connectivity Technology | USB 1.1 |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 3.7 x 2.2 x 1.2 inches |
| Weight (excluding battery) | 5.1 ounces (0.46 Pounds) |
| Maximum Shutter Speed | 1/2000 Seconds |
| Minimum Shutter Speed | 15 seconds |
| Continuous Shooting | 2.5 fps |
| Video Resolution | 480p (15 fps) |
Warranty Information
The Minolta Dimage G400 digital camera comes with a 1-year parts and 1-year labor warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For detailed terms and conditions, refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or contact Minolta customer support.
Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries, please visit the official Minolta website or refer to the contact information provided in your product's quick-start guide or instruction manual CD-ROM. Keep your camera's model number (G400) and serial number (if applicable) ready when contacting support.