One reason why many DIY enthusiasts shy away from servicing and repairing electromechanical SLRs is the necessary purchase of a camera tester. This involves costs as well as dealing with complex technical areas.
That's true
but on the other hand, a camera tester allows you to check the adjustments of an electromechanical SLR and thus make a qualified statement about its function.
This is much more accurate and comprehensible than simply taking test shots.
Common applications for a camera tester include
- measuring curtains travel times and shutter speeds,
- checking the automatic exposure and exposure metering system,
- provide calibrated brightness levels to adjust the SLR electronics according to the instructions,
- checking the aperture function and transmission of lenses,
- determining the frame rate (frames per second) for a SLR/motor drive.
The prerequisite is that you are familiar with camera technology, although here too, an engineering degree is useful but not necessary to understand the basics.
But a camera tester does not solve problems
To do this, it is necessary to transfer the tester's measurement results to the SLR.
- If the curtains travel times are not correct, you need to know where this is set on the camera. This often requires partially disassembling the SLR.
- For example, the automatic exposure control on the Nikon F3 is adjusted using several potentiometers. The procedure for doing this is described very clearly in the SPT Journal. This requires a calibrated light source whose intensity can be adjusted. The camera tester provides this.
- If the aperture values are not correct, the lens must be adjusted, etc.
to take this step into advanced DIY and open up a fascinating field of work.
Even if you don't want to make any adjustments yourself, a camera tester gives you the opportunity to quickly get an idea of the correct functioning of an SLR. It shows things that cannot be made visible by a mere function test.
This is important, for example, when buying a used SLR.
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A word of cautionPlease keep in mind that you’ll be using highly flammable solvents for service work, and their fumes are harmful to your health. Soldering also produces fumes that should not be inhaled. Dangerous high voltages can be present when handling electronics, especially in conjunction with electronic flash units and mains. Therefore, familiarize yourself with the safety regulations beforehand and ensure your safety. Depending on the activity, protective gear may be advisable.
All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.
Acknowledgments
Without the work of Master Larry Lyells, in particular, we wouldn’t have the detailed technical information we need today for service/repair of SLRs.
The SPT Journal and The Camera Craftsman, which he helped shape significantly as an author, and which contain all the necessary information and instructions are available for a fee through Learn Camera Repair.
We owe our access to them to Eugene Pate, the founder of Learn Camera Repair.
