Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Zoom Lens Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of your Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Zoom Lens. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This lens is designed for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras and offers a versatile super telephoto zoom range.

Product Overview

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens is a high-performance super telephoto zoom lens. Key features include:

• 200-500mm Focal Length: Provides extensive reach for distant subjects.
• Constant f/5.6 Aperture: Maintains a bright aperture throughout the zoom range for consistent exposure and shallow depth of field.
• Electromagnetic Diaphragm: Ensures stable auto-exposure control during high-speed continuous shooting.
• Vibration Reduction (VR): Offers up to 4.5 stops of image stabilization, crucial for sharp images at telephoto focal lengths.
• Extra-low Dispersion (ED) Glass Elements: Minimizes chromatic aberration for superior sharpness and color correction.
• AF-S (Silent Wave Motor): Provides fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus operation.

Figure 1: Side view of the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Zoom Lens, showing the zoom ring, focus ring, and control switches.

Figure 2: Another side view of the lens, highlighting the Nikon branding and lens specifications printed on the barrel.

Figure 3: Close-up view of the front element of the lens, indicating the large 95mm filter thread.

Setup

1. Attaching the Lens: Align the mounting mark on the lens with the mounting mark on your Nikon F-mount camera body. Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place.
2. Removing Lens Caps: Remove the front lens cap (LC-95) and the rear lens cap (LF-4) before use.
3. Attaching the Lens Hood: Align the lens hood (HB-71) with the mark on the lens barrel and rotate it until it locks securely. The lens hood helps to reduce flare and protect the front element.
4. Using the Tripod Collar: The lens includes a tripod collar for balanced mounting on a tripod or monopod, especially recommended due to the lens's weight. Loosen the collar's locking knob to rotate the camera for vertical or horizontal orientation.

Figure 4: The HB-71 Bayonet Lens Hood, designed to reduce lens flare and provide protection.

Figure 5: The CL-1434 Semi-Soft Case, provided for lens storage and transport.

Operating Instructions

Focus Mode Switch (M/A - M)

• M/A (Manual-priority autofocus): Allows you to manually adjust focus even when the camera is in autofocus mode, by rotating the focus ring.
• M (Manual focus): Use this setting for manual focusing. Rotate the focus ring to achieve desired focus.

Focus Limit Switch (FULL - ∞-6m)

• FULL: The lens will focus across its entire range, from minimum focusing distance to infinity.
• ∞-6m: Limits the focus range from 6 meters (19.7 feet) to infinity. This can speed up autofocus when shooting distant subjects and prevent the lens from hunting for focus on closer objects.

Vibration Reduction (VR) Switch (ON - OFF)

• ON: Activates the Vibration Reduction system, which compensates for camera shake to produce sharper images, especially at slower shutter speeds or longer focal lengths.
• OFF: Disables Vibration Reduction. It is recommended to turn VR OFF when using a tripod or when shooting at very high shutter speeds.

VR Mode Switch (NORMAL - SPORT)

• NORMAL: Suitable for most shooting situations, including static subjects and general handheld photography.
• SPORT: Optimized for tracking fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife. This mode provides a more stable viewfinder image and allows for continuous shooting with minimal interruption.

Zoom Ring and Lock Switch

• Zoom Ring: Rotate the zoom ring to adjust the focal length between 200mm and 500mm.
• Zoom Lock Switch: Located near the 200mm mark, this switch locks the lens at 200mm to prevent zoom creep when carrying the lens.

Figure 6: Vertical view of the lens, clearly showing the M/A-M, FULL-∞-6m, VR ON-OFF, and NORMAL-SPORT switches on the side of the lens barrel.

Maintenance

• Cleaning the Lens: Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
• Dust Removal: Use a blower brush to remove dust from the lens surfaces. Avoid wiping dry lens surfaces as this can cause scratches.
• Storage: Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Always attach the front and rear lens caps when not in use. If storing for extended periods, consider using a desiccant to prevent mold growth.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use organic solvents such as paint thinner or benzene to clean the lens.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

This product is a Certified Refurbished item and typically includes a 90-day warranty. For specific warranty details and terms, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the seller directly.

For technical support, service, or further inquiries regarding your Nikon lens, please visit the official Nikon support website or contact Nikon customer service in your region. It is important to note that warranty and service availability may vary based on the region of purchase and whether the product is a "gray market" import.

You can find more information on Nikon's official website: www.nikonusa.com