p.1 #1 · Super Telephoto Series II Lenses Firmware update!
Canon has released a firmware update for EF300mm f/2.8L IS II USM, EF400mm F2.8L IS II USM, EF500mm f/4L IS II USM and EF600mm f/4L IS II USM lenses. This firmware update will be performed by Canon Service Centers. Please contact us using the contact information listed at the bottom of this page.
Firmware Version 1.1.1 incorporates the following enhancement:
1. Changes the control algorithm of the focus drive, and enhances the drive’s responsiveness for more precise focus and adjustments. In particular, the new firmware enhances the AI servo AF capability of the lenses to track objects that move irregularly in sports events, such as soccer or rugby.
Affected Products:
Firmware Version 1.1.1 is for lenses with Firmware Version 1.0.0. If the lens’ firmware is already Version 1.1.1, it is not necessary to update the firmware. The serial numbers (10 digits) of the lenses equipped with Firmware Version 1.0.0 are as follows:
EF300mm f/2.8L IS II USM: The third digit in the serial number is either 0, 1, 2, or 3 (xx0xxxxxxx, xx1xxxxxxx, xx2xxxxxxx, xx3xxxxxxx).
EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM: The third digit in the serial number is either 0, 1, 2, or 3 (xx0xxxxxxx, xx1xxxxxxx, xx2xxxxxxx, xx3xxxxxxx).
EF500mm f/4L IS II USM: The third digit in the serial number is 0 (xx0xxxxxxx).
EF600mm f/4L IS II USM: The third digit in the serial number is 0 (xx0xxxxxxx).
Lenses with serial numbers other than those listed above are equipped with Firmware Version 1.1.1 or later.
p.1 #5 · Super Telephoto Series II Lenses Firmware update!
Just said "goodbye" to my new 500. The Canon folks in Irvine will say "hello" to it Monday morning. I hope I get it back by at least late next week. This is the beginning of my busy season here in Alaska. Hard to believe for many of you folks, but fall is nearly upon us already and the critters will become more active and provide more opportunities. I guess when my lens gets back to me it will focus magically whenever the moose and the bears and the other animals engage in rugby?
p.1 #7 · Super Telephoto Series II Lenses Firmware update!
PetKal wrote:
OK, Fred, where is that comparo review of 500 II vs. 400 II you've been working on since yesterdaY ?
Shhhh!! it was a secret.
I got the 500 II yesterday from LensRentals. I'm not sure if I'm getting the 400 II.
Took some quick shots with the 500mm.
Here is a shoe-billed stork hiding behind the bushes..
p.1 #11 · Super Telephoto Series II Lenses Firmware update!
OK, found it on the card and it's 40185. But the notification from Canon and on this site both quote ten digit serial numbers. How did I end up with 5?
p.1 #12 · Super Telephoto Series II Lenses Firmware update!
hermv2000 wrote:
OK, found it on the card and it's 40185. But the notification from Canon and on this site both quote ten digit serial numbers. How did I end up with 5?
Turn the lens upside down and look for a shiny silver metallic plate next to the camera mount. That has your serial number on it. My 500 II serial number is like 89000003XX.
You know that kind of sounds like a 500mm f/4 IS version 1 serial number. Just as a sanity check are you sure you have a version II? Only the version II's need the new firmware not the version 1. On the version 1 the serial number is just etched in the white paint i.e. no metal plate. And the version I serial numbers are only 5-digits like yours. I think you have a version 1.
p.1 #14 · Super Telephoto Series II Lenses Firmware update!
PetKal wrote:
That looks mighty sharp to me ....with 1.4xTC to boot and handheld.
Fred, are you sold on the lens yet ?
I love the 500 II's image quality, size and weight. It takes the 1.4x III extender very nicely (example above). It's hard to tell from photos with or without it. I have to remind myself I'm not shooting with a 300mm. It's a joy to handhold.
The 400 II arrived as well. Lovely lens. I have not shot with it seriously but my newborn does not think its box is very comfy. He much prefers the 500mm box. So, there you have it. Fred Jr's opinion.
Fred, you have even found a good purpose for the case coffee cup holders.