Olympus Evolt E-420 Digital SLR Camera Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the operation and maintenance of your Olympus Evolt E-420 Digital SLR Camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before using your camera to ensure proper handling and optimal performance. The E-420 is a compact and lightweight digital SLR camera designed for versatile photography.

2. Key Features

• 10-Megapixel CMOS Sensor: Captures high-resolution images suitable for large prints.
• 2.7-inch Live View HyperCrystal II LCD: Provides a clear display for composing and reviewing images, with improved contrast and viewing angle.
• TruePic III Image Processor: Enhances image quality, color accuracy, and reduces noise, especially in low-light conditions.
• Dust Reduction System: Utilizes a Supersonic Wave Filter to remove dust from the image sensor, ensuring spot-free photos.
• On-Screen Autofocus: Facilitates focusing directly on the LCD, similar to point-and-shoot cameras.
• Face Detection Technology: Automatically detects and focuses on up to eight faces for optimized portraits.
• Shadow Adjustment Technology: Improves detail in both bright and shadowed areas of an image.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Offers portability and ease of handling.
• Dual Memory Card Slots: Supports both CompactFlash (Type I & II) and xD-Picture Cards.

3. Setup

3.1. Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully unpack all components. Ensure the following items are present:

• Olympus Evolt E-420 Camera Body
• ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens
• Shoulder Strap
• BLS-1 Lithium-Ion Battery
• Battery Charger
• USB Cable
• Video Cable
• 2 CD-ROMs (Software and Manual)
• Quick Start Guide

3.2. Attaching the Lens

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the lens.
2. Align the red dot on the lens with the red dot on the camera body's lens mount.
3. Insert the lens into the mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place.

Figure 1: Front view of the Olympus E-420 camera body with the lens removed, showing the lens mount. The red dot for lens alignment is visible.

Figure 2: Front view of the Olympus E-420 camera with the ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm lens attached. The lens barrel indicates the focal length and aperture range.

3.3. Inserting the Battery and Memory Card

1. Open the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert the BLS-1 battery with the correct orientation until it locks into place.
3. Open the memory card slot cover. The E-420 supports CompactFlash (Type I & II) and xD-Picture Cards.
4. Insert the memory card(s) into the appropriate slot(s) until they click.
5. Close both covers securely.

Note: Memory cards are not included with the camera and must be purchased separately.

4. Operating the Camera

4.1. Power On/Off

To power on the camera, rotate the power switch located near the mode dial to the "ON" position. To power off, rotate it to "OFF".

Figure 3: Rear view of the Olympus E-420 camera, displaying the 2.7-inch LCD screen, mode dial, and various control buttons including the power switch.

4.2. Shooting Modes

The mode dial allows selection of various shooting modes:

• Automatic (AUTO): Camera automatically sets optimal exposure.
• Program (P): Camera sets aperture and shutter speed, user can adjust other settings.
• Shutter-priority (S): User sets shutter speed, camera sets aperture.
• Aperture-priority (A): User sets aperture, camera sets shutter speed.
• Manual (M): User sets both aperture and shutter speed.
• Scene Modes (SCN): Pre-set modes for specific scenarios (e.g., Portrait, Landscape, Night Scene).

4.3. Live View Functionality

The E-420 features Live View, allowing you to compose and focus using the LCD screen. Press the Live View button (refer to camera diagram in the full manual) to activate or deactivate Live View. In Live View, the camera can perform On-Screen Autofocus by pressing the shutter button halfway.

4.4. Autofocus and Face Detection

The camera offers various autofocus modes. When Face Detection is enabled, the camera identifies and prioritizes human faces for optimal focus and exposure, tracking up to eight faces within the frame.

4.5. White Balance

The E-420 includes an improved automatic white balance system for accurate color reproduction. Manual white balance settings are also available for specific lighting conditions.

4.6. Image Processing (TruePic III)

The TruePic III Image Processor optimizes image quality by processing all pixel information, resulting in accurate colors, natural skin tones, and reduced image noise, particularly at higher ISO settings.

4.7. Flash Usage

The camera has a built-in flash with automatic modes. It also supports wireless multi-flash photography with compatible Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R external flash units, allowing control of up to three flash groups independently.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Dust Reduction System

The E-420 features an integrated Dust Reduction System. The Supersonic Wave Filter vibrates at high frequency to dislodge dust and other particles from the image sensor, which are then collected on an adhesive membrane. This system activates automatically when the camera is powered on.

5.2. Cleaning the Camera and Lens

• Camera Body: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the camera body. For stubborn dirt, a slightly dampened cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth.
• Lens: Use a lens brush or blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a specialized lens cleaning solution and a microfiber lens cloth. Avoid touching the lens surface with your fingers.
• LCD Screen: Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the full user manual provided on the included CD-ROM.

• Camera does not power on:
  • Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
  • Check if the battery contacts are clean.
• Images are blurry:
  • Verify the lens is properly attached and clean.
  • Check focus settings and ensure the camera has achieved focus.
  • Use a faster shutter speed or image stabilization in low light.
• Dust spots appear on images:
  • The Dust Reduction System should activate automatically. If spots persist, manual sensor cleaning may be required by a service professional.
• Memory card error:
  • Ensure the memory card is correctly inserted and not damaged.
  • Try formatting the card (this will erase all data).
  • Use a different, compatible memory card.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1. Warranty Information

The Olympus Evolt E-420 camera typically comes with a 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For specific terms and conditions, refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Olympus support website.

8.2. Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or further inquiries, please contact Olympus customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the Olympus website or in the documentation provided with your camera.