Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR Zoom Lens Instruction Manual

1. Overview

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR lens is a versatile zoom lens designed for Nikon DX-format DSLR cameras. It offers a wide-angle to portrait-length perspective, making it suitable for various photographic situations. Key features include a fast f/2.8-4 maximum aperture, Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization, and advanced optical elements for high image quality.

Key Features:

• 5x Zoom Range: Covers a versatile 16-80mm focal length (24-120mm equivalent on FX format).
• Fast Aperture: f/2.8-4 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field.
• Vibration Reduction (VR): Provides up to 4 stops of image stabilization, beneficial for handheld shooting and low-light conditions. Includes a specialized tripod VR mode.
• ED and Aspherical Elements: Extra-low Dispersion glass and aspherical lens elements reduce chromatic aberration and enhance sharpness and contrast.
• Nano Crystal Coat: Minimizes flare and ghosting for clear images.
• Electromagnetic Diaphragm: Ensures stable exposure control during high-speed continuous shooting.
• Fluorine Coat: Repels water, dirt, and smudges on the front and rear lens elements for easier cleaning.

What's in the Box:

• AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens
• HB-75 Bayonet Lens Hood
• LC-72 72mm Snap-On Front Lens Cap
• LF-4 Rear Lens Cap

Figure 1: The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR Zoom Lens.

2. Setup

Attaching the Lens:

1. Ensure the camera is turned off.
2. Remove the rear lens cap (LF-4) from the lens and the body cap from the camera.
3. Align the mounting mark on the lens with the mounting mark on the camera body.
4. Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place.

Attaching the Lens Hood (HB-75):

The HB-75 bayonet lens hood helps prevent stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting. It also offers some protection to the front element.

1. Align the lens hood's mounting mark with the lens hood alignment mark on the lens.
2. Rotate the hood until it clicks into place.
3. To remove, reverse the process while pressing the release button on the hood.

Figure 2: The HB-75 Bayonet Lens Hood.

3. Operating the Lens

Focus Mode Switch:

The lens features a focus mode switch with two settings:

• M/A (Autofocus with Manual Override): Allows for instant manual focus adjustment even when autofocus is engaged. Simply rotate the focus ring to fine-tune focus after the camera has autofocused.
• M (Manual Focus): Disables autofocus, allowing for full manual control of the focus ring.

Vibration Reduction (VR) Switch:

The VR system helps reduce blur caused by camera shake. It has two settings:

• ON: Activates Vibration Reduction. Recommended for most handheld shooting situations.
• OFF: Disables Vibration Reduction. Recommended when using a tripod or when shutter speeds are fast enough to prevent blur.

Additionally, the VR mode switch offers:

• NORMAL: For general shooting, compensating for broad camera shake.
• ACTIVE: For shooting from moving vehicles or when significant camera movement is expected.

Zooming:

Rotate the zoom ring to change the focal length between 16mm (wide-angle) and 80mm (telephoto). The lens maintains a relatively fast aperture throughout its zoom range (f/2.8 at 16mm to f/4 at 80mm).

Aperture Control:

This lens features an electromagnetic diaphragm, which provides precise and consistent exposure control, especially during high-speed continuous shooting. Aperture is controlled via the camera body.

4. Maintenance

Cleaning the Lens:

• Lens Elements: Use a blower brush to remove dust and debris. For smudges or fingerprints, use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics, along with a small amount of lens cleaning fluid. The fluorine coat on the front and rear elements makes cleaning easier.
• Lens Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using organic solvents like paint thinner or benzene.

Storage:

• Always attach the front and rear lens caps when not in use.
• Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• If storing for an extended period, consider using a dehumidifying agent to prevent mold and mildew.

5. Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions:

• Autofocus Not Working:
  • Ensure the lens focus mode switch is set to M/A.
  • Check the camera's focus mode settings.
  • Ensure the lens is securely mounted to the camera body.
• Vibration Reduction Not Engaging:
  • Ensure the VR switch on the lens is set to ON.
  • VR may not be noticeable at very fast shutter speeds or when the camera is perfectly still on a tripod (though a dedicated tripod VR mode is available).
• Dust or Smudges on Lens:
  • Refer to the 'Cleaning the Lens' section in Maintenance.
• Image Quality Issues (e.g., soft focus, chromatic aberration):
  • Ensure the lens elements are clean.
  • Check camera settings (e.g., ISO, shutter speed, aperture).
  • Ensure proper focusing technique.
  • Chromatic aberration and distortion can often be corrected in post-processing software.

For further troubleshooting or issues not listed here, please consult your camera's instruction manual or contact Nikon customer support.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

This Nikon product is covered by a limited warranty provided by Nikon. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary by region and purchase location. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For detailed warranty information, product registration, service, and technical support, please visit the official Nikon website or contact your local authorized Nikon service center.

Nikon Support Website: www.nikonusa.com/en/service-and-support/index.page