Maintenance issues?

[Guest]

Archived from groups: alt.comp.periphs.dcameras (More info?)

I'm wondering about moving parts in digital cameras--more specifically, the
retracting/extending lenses so popular among current models (I have a Canon
A85).
I appreciate the protection they offer for the lens, particularly as someone
who will subject mine to some rough duty.
But moving parts tend to break more easily, or at the least require
maintenance/cleaning.
Any suggestions on care/maintenance?

Thanks all.
MT

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: alt.comp.periphs.dcameras (More info?)

Live fast, sell young... (O;

Sadly we are in a disposable age, and nothing is going to change that
short of major psychological re-programming.

Most of the componentry nowadays is miniaturised and complex, and
almost impossible to repair, so it is simply replaced. (If it's still
in stock or findable..) It's hard to generalise, but I would say the
things that kill cameras best, and therefore should be avoided are:

- excessive g-forces (eg dropping on concrete, hitting walls..)
- ingress of harmful stuff (eg dirt, water (inclduing from over zealous
cleaning), coffee, jam, dust..)
- exposure to extremes of temperature (+ condensation)
- long storage without use
- poor design or choice of lubricants

Unfortunately none of these are helped much by maintenance, unless you
plan to regularly dissassemble and clean it. And unless you are very
good with such work, the likelihood is that you will make it worse
rather than better. (`Ooops, where did that spring go?` `Gee, I wonder
what that little bit of plastic used to do?`, etc..)

My attitude to this is to simply sigh with resignation, and if they
offer a reasonably priced extended warranty, go for it!