Sigma USB Dock for Canon Lenses User Manual

Introduction

The Sigma USB Dock is an essential accessory designed to connect your compatible Sigma Global Vision lenses to your personal computer. This connection enables you to update lens firmware, customize autofocus settings, and adjust other parameters such as Optical Stabilizer (OS) behavior and focus limiter ranges. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Sigma USB Dock.

Product Overview

Figure 1: Front view of the Sigma USB Dock with a USB cable connected. The dock is labeled "FOR CANON" and shows the USB port for computer connection.

Figure 2: Top view of the Sigma USB Dock, illustrating the lens mounting surface and the "FOR CANON" designation, indicating compatibility with Canon mount Sigma lenses.

The Sigma USB Dock (Model: 878954) is a compact device designed to facilitate communication between your Sigma Global Vision lens and your computer. It features a lens mount on one side and a USB port on the other. The dock is specifically designed for Sigma lenses with a Canon mount.

Setup

1. System Requirements

• A personal computer with an available USB port.
• Internet connection for software download and firmware updates.
• Compatible operating system (Windows or macOS).
• Sigma Optimization Pro software (free download from Sigma's official website).

2. Software Installation

1. Visit the official Sigma website (www.sigmaphoto.com) and navigate to the support or downloads section.
2. Locate and download the latest version of the "Sigma Optimization Pro" software compatible with your operating system.
3. Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

3. Connecting the USB Dock and Lens

1. Ensure the Sigma Optimization Pro software is installed and running on your computer.
2. Connect one end of the supplied USB cable to the USB port on the Sigma USB Dock.
3. Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on your computer.
4. Align the red dot on your compatible Sigma lens with the red dot on the Sigma USB Dock.
5. Attach the lens to the dock by twisting it clockwise until it clicks securely into place.

Figure 3: Side view of the Sigma USB Dock showing the USB cable connection point, ready for connection to a computer.

Figure 4: Bottom view of the Sigma USB Dock, displaying the electronic contacts that interface with the lens and regulatory markings.

Operating Instructions

Once the Sigma USB Dock and your lens are connected to your computer and the Sigma Optimization Pro software is running, you can perform various operations:

1. Firmware Updates

• The software will automatically check for available firmware updates for your connected lens.
• If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it. Ensure a stable internet connection during this process.
• Do not disconnect the lens or the USB dock during a firmware update to prevent damage.

2. Customizing Lens Settings

The Sigma Optimization Pro software allows for detailed customization of your lens's performance characteristics. The available options vary depending on the specific lens model (Art, Contemporary, or Sports line).

• Autofocus Adjustment: For prime lenses, you can fine-tune focus at four different distances. For zoom lenses, you can adjust focus at four focal lengths and four shooting distances, providing up to 16 adjustment points. This helps compensate for slight front-focus or back-focus issues.
• Optical Stabilizer (OS) Customization: For lenses equipped with OS, you can select different OS modes (e.g., Dynamic View Mode for quick composition or Moderate View Mode for smoother viewfinder image).
• Focus Limiter Settings: For certain lenses, you can set custom focus limiter ranges to prevent the lens from hunting for focus outside a specific distance.
• Full-Time Manual Focus (FTM) Sensitivity: Adjust the sensitivity of the manual focus ring when FTM is enabled.

Refer to the Sigma Optimization Pro software's help section for specific instructions on each customization option.

Maintenance

• Keep the Sigma USB Dock clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe its surface.
• Avoid touching the electronic contacts on the lens mount side of the dock. If necessary, clean them gently with a lens cleaning cloth.
• Store the dock in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Always disconnect the USB cable and remove the lens from the dock when not in use.

Troubleshooting

1. Dock Not Recognized by Computer

• Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the dock and the computer.
• Try a different USB port on your computer.
• Restart your computer and the Sigma Optimization Pro software.
• Verify that the Sigma Optimization Pro software is installed correctly and is the latest version.

2. Lens Not Recognized by Software

• Ensure the lens is securely attached to the USB Dock, aligning the red dots and twisting until it clicks.
• Confirm that your specific Sigma lens model is compatible with the USB Dock. A list of compatible lenses is available on the Sigma website.
• Clean the electronic contacts on both the lens and the dock with a clean, dry cloth.
• Restart the Sigma Optimization Pro software.

3. Firmware Update Failure

• Ensure a stable internet connection throughout the update process.
• Do not disconnect the lens or the dock during the update.
• Temporarily disable any antivirus or firewall software that might interfere with the connection.
• If the issue persists, contact Sigma customer support.

4. Calibration Results Not Satisfactory

• Lens calibration is a precise process. Ensure you are following the instructions within the Sigma Optimization Pro software carefully.
• Use a reliable focus calibration chart and consistent testing conditions (e.g., tripod, good lighting).
• Small adjustments may be needed over several iterations to achieve optimal results.
• The software allows you to revert to factory default settings if needed.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Sigma website. For technical support, software downloads, and the latest compatible lens list, please visit the Sigma support page at www.sigmaphoto.com/support. A comprehensive user manual in PDF format is also available for download from the product page or support section.

User Manual (PDF): Download PDF