1. Introduction
The RICOH G900 is a robust digital camera designed for demanding environments, offering enhanced durability and advanced features for professional use. It combines high-resolution imaging with resistance to water, dust, shock, and various chemicals, making it suitable for construction sites, medical facilities, and manufacturing lines.
Figure 1: Front view of the RICOH G900 Digital Camera, showcasing its rugged design and lens.
2. Setup
2.1. Battery Installation and Charging
- Open the battery cover located on the bottom of the camera.
- Insert the provided rechargeable battery (DB-110) with the contacts facing inward.
- Close the battery cover securely.
- Connect the camera to the charger (BJ-11) using the USB cable (I-USB173) and USB power adapter. The charging indicator will illuminate.
- Charging is complete when the indicator turns off. A full charge takes approximately 2.5 hours.
2.2. Memory Card Insertion
- Open the memory card slot cover.
- Insert an SDHC or SDXC memory card into the slot until it clicks into place.
- Close the memory card slot cover securely.
The camera also features 6.5 GB of internal memory, allowing storage of up to 856 images at maximum resolution, even without an SD card.
3. Operation
3.1. Basic Shooting
To power on the camera, press the power button. Select your desired shooting mode using the mode dial. The 3.0-inch LCD monitor with AR coating provides clear visibility even in bright outdoor conditions.
Figure 2: Back view of the RICOH G900, showing the LCD screen and control buttons.
3.2. Advanced Features
- High-Resolution Imaging: Equipped with a 20-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, the G900 delivers high-definition images, maintaining clarity even after cropping. It performs well in low-light conditions.
- 5x Optical Zoom: The camera features a 5x optical zoom lens (28-140mm equivalent), suitable for capturing both wide-angle scenes and distant subjects.
- CALS Mode: This mode, accessible via the top dial, complies with Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's Digital Photo Information Management Standards for construction CALS/EC. It allows selection of recording sizes (3M, 2M, 1M) to meet various electronic submission requirements.
- Camera Memo Function: Enhance data management by attaching up to 100 memo items (max 128 characters each) and up to 30 seconds of audio to images. Pre-registered information or barcode data can be easily added.
- Electronic Blackboard Function: Generate electronic blackboards by linking camera memo information (text/images) to blackboard templates created on a PC. This new shooting method digitizes information traditionally handwritten on physical blackboards.
- Tamper Detection Function: Complies with reliability verification standards, allowing detection of image tampering using recommended applications.
- Ring Light: Six LED ring lights around the lens provide illumination for close-up shots. The light intensity can be adjusted, and specific directions (up, down, left, right) can be illuminated to emphasize textures or details like scratches and cracks. This also aids barcode reading in dark environments.
- GPS and Electronic Compass: The camera features a GPS function that supports US GPS, Japan's QZSS, and Russia's GLONASS, along with a 360-degree electronic compass. It records precise shooting location and direction, with faster startup times compared to previous models.
- 4K Video Recording: Supports 4K video recording (3840x2160 pixels at 30fps) in H.264 format, allowing clear capture of wide-area scenes or positional relationships. Electronic image stabilization (Movie SR, Movie SR+) helps reduce blur.
- Electronic Level: An electronic level helps ensure accurate horizontal alignment and checks the camera's tilt, useful for architectural photography or unstable shooting conditions.
- Transparency Function: Use a previously captured image as a template on the monitor to easily shoot with the same composition. Transparency levels (20%/40%/60%/80%) are adjustable. You can also compare current and previous images side-by-side.
- Image Clip Function: Record an image of an entire site with a measurement value image clipped as a sub-image into a single file. This allows linking two images for PC review.
- Camera Lock Function: Restrict camera operations (e.g., menu selection, internal memory playback, USB connection) by setting a password. This allows administrators to prevent accidental setting changes and users to prevent unauthorized use. Password protection can also be applied to SDHC/SDXC cards.
4. Maintenance
The RICOH G900 is built for durability and ease of maintenance in harsh conditions.
- Chemical Resistance: The camera is resistant to disinfection with ethanol, sodium hypochlorite, and chlorine dioxide water, making it suitable for environments requiring strict hygiene, such as medical sites or food processing lines.
- Waterproof and Dustproof: With IPX8 waterproof rating, it can be used continuously underwater for 2 hours at a depth of 20m. The IP6X dustproof rating ensures protection against dust ingress. After exposure to water or dust, wipe the camera clean with a soft, damp cloth. Ensure all covers are securely closed before cleaning.
- Shock and Load Resistance: The camera is shockproof against drops from 2.1m and can withstand loads up to 100kgf. While robust, avoid unnecessary impacts to prolong its lifespan.
- Cold Resistance: Operates reliably down to -10°C. When moving between extreme temperatures, allow the camera to acclimate to prevent condensation.
- Lens Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the lens. For stubborn smudges, use a lens cleaning solution. The reinforced protective glass on the lens front provides added durability.
5. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Camera does not turn on. | Battery is depleted or incorrectly inserted. | Charge the battery or re-insert it correctly. |
| Images are blurry. | Lens is dirty; camera shake; incorrect focus. | Clean the lens; use image stabilization; ensure proper focus. |
| Cannot record images. | Memory card is full or locked; internal memory is full. | Delete unnecessary files; unlock the memory card; transfer files from internal memory. |
| GPS data is not acquired. | Poor satellite signal; GPS function is off. | Move to an open area; ensure GPS function is enabled. |
| LCD screen is difficult to see outdoors. | Screen brightness setting is low. | Adjust the screen brightness using the "Outdoor Monitor" function. |
6. Specifications
Figure 3: RICOH G900 dimensions and key specifications.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | RICOH |
| Model Number | 162101 |
| Effective Pixels | 20 MP |
| Sensor Technology | CMOS |
| Optical Zoom | 5x |
| Maximum Focal Length | 140 mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/3.5 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX8 (20m for 2 hours) |
| Dustproof Rating | IP6X |
| Shock Resistance | 2.1m drop |
| Load Resistance | 100kgf |
| Cold Resistance | -10°C |
| Display Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Internal Memory | 6.5 GB |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Supported File Formats | MPEG-4, JPEG |
| Product Dimensions | 3.31 x 11.82 x 6.55 cm |
| Product Weight | 219 grams |
| Release Year | 2019 |
7. Accessories
The RICOH G900 is compatible with several accessories to enhance its functionality.
Figure 4: Overview of available accessories for the RICOH G900.
- Rechargeable Battery DB-110: An additional battery for extended shooting.
- Battery Charger BJ-11: External charger for DB-110 batteries.
- USB Power Adapter & Cable I-USB173: For charging and data transfer.
- Neck Strap: For secure carrying.
- Macro Stand: Aids in stable close-up photography.
- Wide Conversion Lens DW-5: Attaches to the camera to achieve a 22mm equivalent focal length (35mm format).
- Protector Jacket O-CC174: A protective cover for the camera body.
- Soft Case SC-900: A cushioned case that can accommodate the camera with the DW-5 wide conversion lens attached.
- Waterproof Remote Control O-RC1: A daily-use waterproof remote control for zoom operation and shutter release, allowing control from various angles.
8. Support and Warranty
For product inquiries and support, please contact RICOH Imaging Customer Service.
- Telephone Support: 0570-001313 (Operating hours: 10:00 - 17:00 JST, closed on Sundays, public holidays, year-end/New Year, and company-specific holidays).
- Email Support: Visit https://www.ricoh-imaging.co.jp/japan/support/product_web.html for online inquiries.
For issues related to Amazon orders, please contact Amazon Customer Support directly.
Warranty Information
If the product has an initial operational defect or any other issue, a return and refund will be processed within 30 days of purchase. Please refer to the specific warranty terms provided at the time of purchase for full details.
