Tamron 28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD Lens for Canon EF Mount User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Tamron 28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD (Model A010-C) is a versatile all-in-one zoom lens designed for full-frame DSLR cameras with Canon EF mount. This lens combines a wide focal range from 28mm to 300mm, making it suitable for various photographic situations, from wide-angle landscapes to telephoto shots. It features Tamron's Vibration Compensation (VC) for image stabilization and a Piezo Drive (PZD) ultrasonic motor for fast and quiet autofocus.

The optical design incorporates specialized glass elements, including LD (Low Dispersion), Molded-Glass Aspherical, Hybrid Aspherical, XR (Extra Refractive Index), and UXR (Ultra-Extra Refractive Index) elements. These elements contribute to minimizing aberrations and maintaining a compact, lightweight design while delivering superior image quality. The lens also features a moisture-resistant construction, enhancing its durability for outdoor use.

Figure 1: Tamron 28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD Lens for Canon EF Mount.

2. Setup and Installation

2.1 Attaching the Lens

1. Ensure both the camera and the lens are powered off.
2. Remove the rear lens cap from the lens and the body cap from the camera.
3. Align the mounting index mark on the lens (usually a red dot or white square) with the corresponding mark on the camera body.
4. Insert the lens into the camera's lens mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.

2.2 Detaching the Lens

1. Ensure the camera is powered off.
2. While pressing the lens release button on the camera body, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it stops.
3. Carefully remove the lens from the camera body.
4. Attach the rear lens cap to the lens and the body cap to the camera to protect the sensors and lens elements.

2.3 Attaching the Lens Hood

The lens comes with a petal-shaped lens hood. Align the hood with the front of the lens, matching the alignment marks. Rotate the hood clockwise until it locks into place. The lens hood helps to prevent stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting.

Figure 2: Side view of the Tamron 28-300mm lens, showing the focus and zoom rings, and the LOCK switch.

3. Operating the Lens

3.1 Zooming

To adjust the focal length, rotate the zoom ring on the lens barrel. The focal length markings (28, 35, 50, 70, 100, 200, 300mm) indicate the current setting. This lens offers a 10.7x optical zoom range.

3.2 Focus Mode Switch (AF/MF)

• AF (Autofocus): Set the switch to AF for automatic focusing. The lens uses its PZD (Piezo Drive) ultrasonic motor for fast and quiet autofocus.
• MF (Manual Focus): Set the switch to MF to manually adjust focus. Rotate the focus ring to achieve desired sharpness. This lens supports Full-Time Manual Focus (FTM), allowing manual focus adjustments even in AF mode without switching.

3.3 Vibration Compensation (VC) Switch

The VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism helps reduce camera shake, especially useful in low-light conditions or when shooting at longer focal lengths. Set the VC switch to "ON" to activate image stabilization. Set it to "OFF" when using a tripod or when image stabilization is not required.

Figure 3: Diagram illustrating the internal components of the Vibration Compensation (VC) system.

3.4 Zoom Lock (ZL) Mechanism

The Zoom Lock (ZL) switch prevents the lens barrel from extending unintentionally due to gravity, especially when carrying the camera with the lens pointed downwards. To engage the lock, set the lens to 28mm and slide the ZL switch to the "LOCK" position. To unlock, slide the switch back to the "UNLOCKED" position.

3.5 Internal Focusing (IF) System

This lens utilizes an Internal Focusing (IF) system, meaning the overall length of the lens does not change during focusing. This design allows for a shorter minimum focusing distance throughout the zoom range and makes it easier to use polarizing filters or other accessories that require a non-rotating front element.

Figure 4: Example landscape photograph, demonstrating the lens's versatility.

4. Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning Lens Elements: Use a lens blower to remove dust and loose particles. For smudges or fingerprints, use a clean, soft lens cloth and a small amount of lens cleaning solution. Wipe gently in a circular motion from the center outwards.
• Cleaning the Lens Body: Wipe the lens body with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using organic solvents like thinner or benzene.
• Storage: When not in use, store the lens with both front and rear caps attached in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Consider using a desiccant to prevent mold growth.
• Moisture Resistance: While the lens features moisture-resistant construction, it is not waterproof. Avoid exposing it to heavy rain or submerging it in water. Wipe off any moisture immediately.

Figure 5: Detail of the lens mount, highlighting the moisture-resistant seal.

5. Troubleshooting

6. Technical Specifications

7. Warranty Information

This Tamron lens typically comes with a manufacturer's warranty. According to product specifications, a 2-year manufacturer's warranty is provided, covering parts and labor. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Tamron website for detailed terms and conditions, including information on extended warranty registration (if applicable).

Keep your proof of purchase (receipt or invoice) as it will be required for any warranty claims.

8. Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or further inquiries regarding your Tamron 28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di VC PZD lens, please contact Tamron customer support in your region. You can usually find contact information, FAQs, and service center locations on the official Tamron website.

When contacting support, please have your lens model number (A010-C) and serial number ready.

Online Resources:

• Tamron Official Website
• Tamron Global Support Page