OM SYSTEM Olympus HLD-9 Power Grip Battery Holder Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your OM SYSTEM Olympus HLD-9 Power Grip Battery Holder. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product and retain it for future reference. The HLD-9 is designed to enhance the functionality and ergonomics of your OM-D E-M1 Mark II and E-M1 Mark III cameras.

2. Product Overview and Features

The OM SYSTEM Olympus HLD-9 Power Grip Battery Holder is a robust accessory designed for professional use, offering extended battery life and improved handling for your compatible OM-D cameras. Its construction ensures durability in various shooting conditions.

Key Features:

• Extended Power: Accommodates one BLH-1 lithium-ion rechargeable battery, supplementing the camera's internal battery for prolonged shooting sessions. The grip's battery is utilized first.
• Enhanced Ergonomics: Provides a more substantial grip, particularly beneficial when using larger lenses or for users with larger hands, improving comfort and stability.
• Vertical Shooting Controls: Equipped with a directional arrow pad, two control dials, two function buttons, and a shutter release button, mirroring the camera's controls for seamless operation in vertical orientation.
• Weather Sealing: Features a dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof (-10°C) design, matching the environmental resistance of the E-M1 Mark II and E-M1 Mark III cameras.
• AC Adapter Compatibility: The optional AC-5 AC adapter can be used with the HLD-9 for studio photography or other situations requiring continuous power.

Image 1: The OM SYSTEM Olympus HLD-9 Power Grip Battery Holder, showcasing its robust design and connection points for the camera.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• OM SYSTEM Olympus HLD-9 Power Grip Battery Holder
• Instruction Manual (this document)

Note: The BLH-1 lithium-ion rechargeable battery is sold separately and is not included in the HLD-9 package.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1 Attaching the HLD-9 to Your Camera

1. Ensure your camera (OM-D E-M1 Mark II or E-M1 Mark III) is powered off.
2. Open the battery compartment cover on your camera body.
3. Remove the camera's battery compartment cover from its hinge if designed to be removed, or secure it out of the way.
4. Align the HLD-9's mounting screw with the tripod socket on the camera body.
5. Carefully slide the HLD-9 onto the camera, ensuring the electrical contacts on the grip align with those on the camera.
6. Tighten the mounting screw securely by turning the dial on the grip until it is firm. Do not overtighten.

4.2 Inserting Batteries

The HLD-9 requires one BLH-1 lithium-ion rechargeable battery (sold separately).

1. Open the battery compartment cover on the HLD-9 grip.
2. Insert a fully charged BLH-1 battery into the compartment, ensuring correct orientation according to the diagram inside the compartment.
3. Close the battery compartment cover firmly until it clicks into place.

Note: The camera will draw power from the battery in the HLD-9 grip first. Once the grip's battery is depleted, the camera will automatically switch to the battery in the camera body.

5. Operation

The HLD-9 provides duplicate controls for comfortable vertical shooting.

5.1 Vertical Shooting Controls

When holding the camera vertically, the following controls on the HLD-9 function identically to their counterparts on the camera body:

• Shutter Release Button: For capturing images.
• Directional Arrow Pad: For menu navigation and focus point selection.
• Control Dials (Front and Rear): For adjusting exposure settings, aperture, shutter speed, etc.
• Function Buttons (Fn1, Fn2): Customizable buttons for quick access to frequently used functions.

5.2 Power Management

The HLD-9 integrates seamlessly with your camera's power system. The camera prioritizes power from the battery installed in the HLD-9. This allows for hot-swapping the grip's battery without interrupting camera operation, provided the camera body also contains a charged battery.

For extended studio use, the optional AC-5 AC adapter can be connected to the HLD-9 to provide continuous power without relying on batteries.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your HLD-9 Power Grip, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Wipe the grip with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp cloth and then dry thoroughly. Avoid using strong solvents or abrasive cleaners.
• Environmental Protection: The HLD-9 is dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof. However, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme conditions, direct water immersion, or severe impacts.
• Battery Care: Always use genuine OM SYSTEM/Olympus BLH-1 batteries. Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove batteries from the grip and store the grip in a dry, temperate environment.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your HLD-9 Power Grip, consider the following common solutions:

• Grip not powering camera:
  • Ensure the battery in the grip is fully charged and correctly inserted.
  • Verify that the HLD-9 is securely attached to the camera and the mounting screw is tightened.
  • Check the electrical contacts on both the grip and the camera for any dirt or obstruction. Clean gently if necessary.
• Controls on grip not responding:
  • Confirm the camera is powered on.
  • Ensure the grip is properly connected and recognized by the camera.
  • Check camera settings to ensure external grip controls are enabled, if applicable.
• Difficulty attaching/detaching:
  • Do not force the grip. Ensure proper alignment of the mounting screw and electrical contacts.
  • Make sure the camera's battery compartment cover is fully removed or secured out of the way before attaching.

If problems persist, consult the OM SYSTEM/Olympus support website or contact customer service.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding the product warranty, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official OM SYSTEM website. For technical support, service, or inquiries, please contact OM SYSTEM customer service through their official channels.

Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.