1. Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the proper use and care of your Tamron A17 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di LD Macro 1:2 Digital Lens. The 'Di' (Digitally Integrated Design) designation indicates a lens specifically adapted to the higher demands of digital SLR cameras (APS-C and full frame). This lens is designed for Sony A-mount cameras. It can be used on Sony Alpha CSC (E-mount) cameras only with a separately sold adapter ring.
2. Product Overview
The Tamron A17 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di LD Macro 1:2 lens is a versatile telephoto zoom lens featuring a macro function. It includes lens caps and a lens hood.
Key Features:
- Focal Length: 70-300mm
- Aperture Range: f/4-5.6 to f/32
- Macro Function: 1:2 magnification ratio, available at focal lengths between 180mm and 300mm.
- Close Focus: Minimum focusing distance of 0.95 meters (3.1 feet) in macro mode.
- Lens Elements: Features Low Dispersion (LD) glass for reduced chromatic aberrations.
- Mount: Sony A-Mount.
Figure 1: Tamron A17 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di LD Macro 1:2 Lens for Sony A-Mount.
3. Setup
Attaching the Lens:
- Ensure your camera is turned off.
- Remove the rear lens cap from the lens and the body cap from your camera.
- Align the mounting index on the lens with the corresponding index on your camera body.
- Rotate the lens clockwise (for Sony A-mount) until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
Attaching the Lens Hood:
The included lens hood helps to prevent stray light from entering the lens and causing flare. Align the lens hood with the front of the lens and twist until it locks securely. For storage, the hood can be reversed and mounted onto the lens.
4. Operating Instructions
Zooming:
Rotate the zoom ring on the lens to adjust the focal length between 70mm and 300mm. The current focal length is indicated by the markings on the lens barrel.
Focusing:
This lens supports both autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF).
- Autofocus (AF): Set the focus mode switch on your camera to AF. The lens will automatically focus when the shutter button is half-pressed.
- Manual Focus (MF): Set the focus mode switch on your camera to MF. Rotate the focusing ring on the lens to achieve sharp focus.
Macro Function:
The lens features a 1:2 macro magnification ratio, allowing for detailed close-up photography. This function is accessible when the focal length is set between 180mm and 300mm.
- Set the lens to a focal length between 180mm and 300mm.
- Locate the 'NORMAL - MACRO' switch on the lens barrel.
- Slide the switch to the 'MACRO' position. This will enable the closer focusing distance of 0.95 meters.
- To return to normal focusing, slide the switch back to 'NORMAL'. Note that you cannot zoom below 180mm while in macro mode.
Figure 2: Focus mode switch on the lens barrel, showing NORMAL and MACRO settings.
Figure 3: Example of detailed close-up photography using the macro function.
Figure 4: Example of telephoto photography, capturing a green parrot with detail.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning the Lens: Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
- Storage: When not in use, keep the lens caps on and store the lens in a dry, dust-free environment, preferably in a lens pouch or camera bag. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the lens to strong impacts. Do not touch the glass elements with your fingers.
6. Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions:
- Lens not focusing:
- Check if the camera's focus mode is set correctly (AF for autofocus, MF for manual focus).
- Ensure the lens is securely mounted to the camera body.
- In low light conditions, autofocus may struggle. Try switching to manual focus or using a brighter light source.
- Image is blurry/soft:
- Check focus.
- Ensure shutter speed is fast enough to prevent camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths. Consider using a tripod or monopod.
- Clean the lens elements if smudges are present.
- Cannot activate macro mode:
- Ensure the lens is zoomed to a focal length between 180mm and 300mm. The macro switch will not engage outside this range.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tamron |
| Model Number | AF017S-700 |
| Focal Length | 70-300mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/32 |
| Lens Design | Zoom |
| Focus Type | Autofocus |
| Zoom Ratio | 4.29:1 |
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Real Angle of View | 35 Degrees |
| Number of Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Compatible Mounts | Sony E (with adapter), Sony A-mount |
| Compatible Camera Models | Sony A series (Alpha 68; Alpha 77 II; Alpha 58; Alpha 37; Alpha 57; Alpha 65; Alpha 77; Alpha 33; Alpha 55; Alpha 580; Alpha 550; Alpha 380; Alpha 330; Alpha 230; Alpha 350; Alpha 300; Alpha 200; Alpha 100; Alpha 700) |
| Photographic Filter Size | 62 Millimeters |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 458 Grams |
| Water Resistance Level | Not water resistant |
| UPC | 725211177128 |
| GTIN | 04960371004792 |
8. Warranty and Support
Manufacturer's Warranty:
This product comes with a free 5-year manufacturer's warranty. Please ensure your purchase is made from an authorized dealer network to qualify for the warranty. Refer to Tamron's official website or your purchase documentation for full warranty terms and conditions.
Spare Parts Availability:
EU spare parts availability duration: 5 Years.
Contact Support:
For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please contact your local Tamron authorized service center or visit the official Tamron website for contact information.
