Cleaning digital sensors
 

Hello,
If ever you want to know how to clean your sensor, this is the best site I've come across so far that advises on this topic.
http://www.cleaningdigitalcameras.com/
Method 6 really makes me cringe. Don't do it!

All I would add is, don't clean it if it doesn't need it.

Wishing you all a happy Christmas.

Duncan

Cleaning your own sensor is a daunting task, but personally I prefer to take the risk as opposed to editing out all the dust spots that accumulate. Usually a bulb blower does the job most of the time, but when you get stubborn spots it's either a) send it in to an authorized maintenance facility for cleaning, b) deal with all the dust spots on every photo, or c) take the risk and do it yourself.

But I definitely agree, Duncan, don't clean it if it doesn't need it. Happy holidays!

Personally I use Pec-Pads wrapped around a plastic spatular + two drops of eclipse fluid, I've cleaned my 300D & 10D on many occassions during the period i've owned them. The first time can be a little daunting, but after that it's childs play.

Harry

I do the same, using a SensorSwipe and the PecPad with Eclipse - have only had to do it once so far. There is also a good SensorSwab made by Photographic Solutions, the same company that makes the PecPads and Eclipse. We are lucky that more and more products are becoming available for sensor cleaning recently.

I use the method shown in example #1. Sensor swabs with Eclipse fluid.
Never had any problems. It usually takes a few passes to get it really clean.

I have yet to use more than a blower on my camera's sensor. If something is stuck on it, off to the local shop it goes. Free cleanings for life! One of the many benefits of buying locally. :D

I carry a wet type cleaner with me when I go on any out-of-town shooting trip ... just in case. But I'm not sure I would use it unless the problem was really bad.

I'm not a fan of blowers, I know of to members who used this approach and wished they had not, dirt in the viewfinder can be very annoying, I know because I'm one of them.

Harry

Mine needs doing. Just today had quotes from " Jessops " £70.00 camera would be away fo at least 28 days. Independant dealer just around the corner £37.50 camera away 7/10 days. hmmmm.

I use the sensor sweep absolutely brilliant the best cheap bit of kit I have ever bought and I only had a week to wait for it to arrive from the states. http://www.pbase.com/copperhill/image/46319755

I bought an artists brush and cleaned it according to the instructions here:

http://www.prime-junta.net/pont/How_...ur_Sensor.html

A rocket blower charges it with static and I then gently sweep the sensor clean. Easy. The only problem is that artists brushes have something called fining on them which needs cleaning off. That took several cleans. Fining free artists brushes are sold on ebay.

Needless to say, a certain degree of care is needed. It is fairly easy if you have a modicum of dexterity.

Leif

Another option is the Intemos cleaning system:

http://www.intemos.com/dslrclean.asp
http://www.intemos.com/ioptic.asp

This is good for those stubborn blobs that won't budge with a pecpad and eclipse fluid.

I've spoken to plenty of people who wouldn't dream of cleaning their sensor themselves. When I've demonstrated what's involved on my camera screen and given them links to the copperhill and cleaningdigitalcameras sites most of them have had a go. It's not difficult and it's not dangerous as long as you make sure you're on mains power or your batteries have plenty of charge.

I've taken a relatively new camera for a "professional" sensor clean once, but that was because there was a blob that wouldn't shift however hard I tried. The repair lab ended up removing the sensor and cleaning the back of the filter to get it clean. Luckily this was done under warranty.

Steve,-----H.Lehmann Ltd,
01782 413611
they are based at Stoke -on -Trent.
A good company.Their charge is £30 for a sensor clean,around 5-7 days.Returned by Royal Mail.If you have had your camers for less than 1 yr,there is no charge.Just your postage one way.

I use a vacuum cleaner a USB one i have had it a week now and it works for me it is my idea to use it for cleaning my sensor,i just hold it above the sensor without touching and move it around i think it is easy,dont for get the sensor is covered my a clear plastic !
you can get the vacuum from this site -http://www.innovasis.co.uk/home.php?cat=3 it just costs £10 .47 .