Dirty Sensor? Needs a cleaning?

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Archive 2008 · Dirty Sensor? Needs a cleaning?

Chris Langer
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p.1 #1 · Dirty Sensor? Needs a cleaning?

Hello everyone,
I know this isn't a D700 thread but I have a problem. I was cleaning my cameras outside and wondering how it looks inside... So I tried that "Shoot a white wall, f/16, infinity focus, high zoom, auto-levels in PS" method and found some nasty dirty sensors.

Do I clean them with just a dust blower or should I buy some E2? I dont mind spending some money on some nice cleaner but I want to make sure its worth it before I buy it.

D300 (with dust off on startup)

This image is copyrighted by the owner

D200

Thanks and hope you can help!
Chris

Jul 02, 2008 at 03:32 AM

Rodolfo Paiz
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p.1 #2 · Dirty Sensor? Needs a cleaning?

Sensor cleaning is like the use of violence in self-defense and law enforcement:

1) Use the least amount possible to get the job done.
2) If in doubt, err on the side of less.
3) Escalate if your initial attempt fails.

Moral of the story? Try the blower first. Redo your tests. Then escalate if needed.

Jul 02, 2008 at 03:42 AM

Chris Langer
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p.1 #3 · Dirty Sensor? Needs a cleaning?

I heard awhile ago to use an air compressor rather then a canned air blower since there is some chemical that could fall upon the sensor? Is this true?

Chris

Jul 02, 2008 at 03:44 AM

James R
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p.1 #4 · Dirty Sensor? Needs a cleaning?

Chris,

I use an airbrush to blow out the sensor and chamber. It uses canned air, which can be a problem if you put the nozzle inside the chamber. If you do get some residue on the sensor, it cleans off easily.

E2 or VisibleDust works great when you need a wet cleaning. BTW, try to clean your camera sensor in a room with little airflow and dust. I clean mine in a bathroom.

Jul 02, 2008 at 04:09 AM

Blimey
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p.1 #5 · Dirty Sensor? Needs a cleaning?

when people say blower... they meant the rocket blower or non aerosol version.

Jul 02, 2008 at 04:10 AM

chemprof
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p.1 #6 · Dirty Sensor? Needs a cleaning?

Compressors actually often spew fine oil particles. That's a no no.

Gerald

Jul 02, 2008 at 10:11 AM


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