Ixpress Color (GB).vp
Contents
1. To change the display to show the image info and histogram press MENU button In the pop up menu use Browse Scroll button to highlight the Setup item then press OK Batch button to enter Hhite Balance Camera Exposure Info Camera Delays Now highlight the Display item and press OK to enter Highlight Show Histogram and press OK The histogram for the current image will be displayed at the display bottom on top of the preview User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back Using the Control Panel 17 Repeat the procedure to select Show Info The info for the current image will be displayed at the display top on top of the preview Press the OK button to enter Browse mode Use Browse Scroll button to browse through the images currently stored in the Image Bank Press OK button to select the picture you want to display The display returns to the main display showing KELELE the latest shot BaG0SPH611 Zooming When previewing an image either in the main window or in Browse mode you are able to zoom into the image to view details To do so press any direction on the Browse scroll button except for the center which could be assigned to function as exposure button Generally it is recommended to use Up or Down as the Left and Right keys will still function as browse keys when in Browse mode Press Up or Down on the Browse Scroll button to display the Zoom Box2. Now use the Browse Scroll button to move the Zoom Box to the area in the image you want to zoom into then press the OK button User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back 18 Using the Control Panel If necessary repeat procedure until max zoom level 3 times has been reached You can exit the zoom function anytime by pressing the MENU button Zoom level 1 Zoom level 2 Zoom level 3 Browse Options When in Browse mode you are able to specify the images you want to browse through and how to display them From the main window press OK button to enter Browse mode Press Menu button to display the Browse menu then use Browse Scroll button to highlight the Batches item and press OK button From the appearing list select a batch number to browse through the pictures from this batch only or select All to browse through all pictures User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back Using the Control Panel The number to the right in the Browse bar indicates the number of images 57 in the selected batch Press MENU button From the menu you have the option of selecting between 3 different ways of displaying the images Image current Info and Histogram Select Info and press OK button 19 Info Histogram L Delete The Info window shows the name capture date Name Bagg4aPagaz i Date and time and the various device setti
3. User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color 2004 Imacon A S All rights reserved Imacon Ixpress Color User s Guide Part No 70030033 revision D The information in this manual is furnished for informational use only is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a commitment by Imacon A S Imacon A S assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this manual Imacon A S assumes no responsibility or liability for loss or damage incurred during or as a result of using Imacon software or products Imacon Ixpress and FlexColor are trademarks of Imacon A S Adobe and Adobe Photoshop are trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc Macintosh Mac OS and FireWire are registered trademarks of Apple Computer Inc InfoLithium is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation Printed in Denmark User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Table of Contents 3 Table of Contents Introduction 5 Warnings and Restrictions 6 System Requirements T How the Ixpress System Works 9 The Ixpress Camera Back 11 General 11 Shooting Modes 12 Features 13 The Ixpress Control Panel 14 Using the Control Panel 16 Error Messages 29 The Image Bank 31 General 31 Features 32 Mounting Dismounting the Battery 33 Battery Operation 34 Transferring Images 39 Assembly and Use 39 Assembling the Ixpress System 39 Ixpress Camera Connection 42 Taking Pictures A3 continues User s Guide Imacon Ixpress C
4. Camera Exposure Info Camera Delays Setup Tungsten Daylight Camera The Ixpress camera back and FlexColor must know which kind of camera body you are using so that it can control the camera correctly Hasselblad ELX Shutter HasselBlad ELD I 0 HasselBlad CH Batch DigiFle II Hhite Balance HasselBlad Hi Canera Mamiya AF Delete Exposure Info Camera Delays Setup Fuji GA666 III Flashsync Generic Pinhole Hasselblad ELZ HasselBlad ELD HasselBlad CH DigiFlex II Rollei LensCtr Choose your camera body from the list before you start taking pictures for the first time and each time you change the type of camera body that you are using with the camera back When using the Match function the device automatically creates a list of cameras compatible with the current camera back adapter Selecting All displays the total list of cameras User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back Using the Control Panel 29 Exposure For making special exposure settings Delete Exposure SRN Delay Batch Bas Hhite Balance Camera From Back Exposure gt i Eien Interval Info a HH Camera Delays E Setup Count Hi Select whether or not you want to be able to capture a shot directly from the camera back When the From Back item is enabled the control panel s Browse Scroll button will function as exp
5. Standards Copenhagen NV february 6 2004 Christian Poulsen Managing Director Imacon A S Hejrevej 30 DK 2400 Copenhagen NV Tel 45 70 26 08 OO Fax 45 70 26 09 00 www imacon dk User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Technical Information 56 User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color
6. Technical Specifications on page 49 for operational and storage requirements e Protect your camera back and Image Bank from impact do not drop them Keep the original shipping boxes for storage User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Care and Maintenance 46 Cleaning the Infrared Filter Cleaning the Infrared Filter If you see dark or colored spots or lines in your images then you may need to clean the camera back s infrared filter In most cases the careful use of compressed air will be adequate but sometimes small particles will get stuck to the surface of the IR filter requiring for a more thorough cleaning involving either fluid or wipes For a good safe cleaning follow descriptions below step by step to obtain optimum results General 1 Discharge any static electricity that may have built up on your body by touching the camera back housing 2 Remove the camera back from your camera body or remove the protective CCD cover see Figure 9 on page 45 3 IMPORTANT Do not remove the IR filter as this will make it virtually impossible to get the filter perfectly clean unless you are working in a Clean room Therefore we strongly advise against you attempting to clean either the inside of the IR filter or the CCD surface by your self 4 If you still see spots on your shot after you have cleaned the outside of the infrared filter then you may have dust on either on the back side of the IR filter or on th
7. before attempting to use your new equipment If your equipment requires service please contact your Ixpress dealer e Keep this and all electronic equipment out of children s reach Ixpress Camera Back and Image Bank e Do not try to hold your camera by the digital back The proper way to hold the camera and back is to hold the camera The camera back is not a handle for the camera Do not attempt to open your Ixpress Camera Back or Image Bank e Do not drop your Ixpress Camera Back or Image Bank e Keep your Ixpress Camera Back Image Bank and all other computer equipment away from moisture If your Ixpress Camera Back becomes wet disconnect from power and allow to dry before attempting to operate again Always replace the Ixpress Camera Back s protective cover when it is not connected to your camera the exposed CCD sensor is vulnerable to damage Always keep the protective cover on when adding or removing a camera body adapter to your Ixpress Camera Back Store your Ixpress Camera Back and Image Bank away from heat and moisture e Keep all wires connected to or from your Ixpress Camera Back Image Bank and computer out of the way where they will not be tripped over e Never cover the devices ventilation openings Using Flash Sync The Ixpress Flash Sync connectors are specified for use with low voltage flash generators Do not connect to older high voltage flash guns Ixpress complies to ISO 10330 which limits
8. greater enlargement than multi shot images User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back Features Features Figure 2 Camera Back Features Control Panel amp Display get instant image preview browse through all pictures currently saved in the Image Bank read information and exposure data from each picture and make basic camera settings See The Ixpress Control Panel on page 14 for a detailed description Flash Sync from Camera input to be connected to older mechanical cameras When pressing the camera s exposure button a signal is sent to the camera back The flash is controlled from any Sync To Flash output Flash Sync To Flash output Controls the flash An identical output is located on the Image Bank see page 32 Link connector This connector accepts the camera link cable which connects to the link connector on the Image Bank see page OZ AUX connector applies to certain types of cameras normally not used User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color 13 The Ixpress Camera Back The xpress Control Panel 14 The Ixpress Control Panel 456 783 BOGeSP R881 Figure 3 The Ixpress Control Panel When using the Ixpress Camera Back as a stand alone unit it is entirely controlled from the control panel built into the device The 2 color display shows instant preview of your image and the control panel buttons enables yo
9. has occurred between the Ixpress camera back and Image Bank Please check the link cable and connectors Camera body error An error has occurred between camera and Ixpress camera back Please check exposure cables connectors and batteries Time out exposure error The camera back receives a time out signal while waiting for the exposure to finish Please check that the exposure time is set correctly Bad Exposure The camera back has performed a wake up capture after having been switched into sleep mode This capture should be deleted instantly User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back 30 User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Image Bank General 31 The Image Bank General The Image Bank controls the communication between the camera back and the computer and supplies power to the camera back While shooting in the studio with the Ixpress system connected to a computer the Image Bank generates the preview image in 2 secs for viewing and processing in FlexColor During computer free operation the Ixpress Camera Back and the Image Bank work as a single unit powered by a standard L size battery All shots are saved straight to the Image Bank s hard disk which has a capacity of more than 1000 shots depends on Camera Back model The disk is specially formatted to automatically maintain full speed throughout its lifetime After shooting simply connect the Image Bank
10. ms z Shutter Delay AAA Hhite Balance fDefault Exposure Fost Info Delay Camera Delays m Setup 2 ASA Ready Mode Timeout Ready Mode Timeout Minutes Hi The delay time is different for each camera back model The delay is set automatically when you choose a camera body from the Camera menu In these cases you should select the Default option for the Shutter Delay However you must set this manually using the Custom parameter when you are working with an unlisted camera NOTE Even when working with a specific camera body you are able to adjust the delay time manually if necessary using the Custom parameter The value is resettable by selecting the Default option Under normal circumstances you simply choose the preferred camera from the Camera menu You could however experience that your camera does not perform correctly using the default shutter delay causing colors to slide or other unwanted effects This is due to a timing error in the camera different from the factory setting To correct this you are enabled to alter the default shutter delay settings using the Custom parameter If you experience problems start by increasing the delay quite a bit for example 100 ms Then decrease the shutter delay in small steps until your image looks right This way you will find the correct synchronization for your selected camera The Post Delay function ensures that the shutter is fully closed before data i
11. to a computer to view select and process your images in FlexColor See Transferring Images on page 35 for details User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Image Bank Features 32 Features Figure 4 Image Bank Features Standard L size battery enables up to 8 hours of computer free operation See Technical Specifications on page 49 for appropriate battery types NOTE In case the Image Bank is connected to a computer ex a laptop computer which is incapable of supplying sufficient power to the Image Bank it will be necessary to mount the battery as well or to connect an external power supply unit see Technical Specifications on page 49 for details Flash Sync To Flash output Controls the flash An identical output is located on the camera back see page 13 On Off button switches the Image Bank and camera back on off Status indicator indicates that power is supplied to the unit The color indicates the current status of the Image Bank Red Error Yellow Busy and Green Ready If the indicator flashes the battery needs recharging Link connector This connector accepts the camera link cable which connects to the link connector on the camera back see page 13 External Power Supply Socket plug the cable from an external power supply into this socket See Technical Specifications on page 49 for power supply requirements FireWire Socket for conne
12. voltages to 24V and currents to 100mA External Power Supply If you choose to power your system using an external power supply use only a type approved by Imacon for use with Ixpress See Technical Specifications on page 49 for details User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Introduction System Requirements Lithium Battery If you choose to power your system with a battery use only batteries approved by Imacon for use with Ixpress See Technical Specifications on page 49 for details e Never short circuit the battery terminals e CAUTION Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type System Requirements Below are the basic hardware requirements for the PC or Macintosh system to which the Ixpress Camera Back is to be connected For information about the processor operating system RAM and hard disk requirements please refer to the FlexColor Software Reference manual that comes with the FlexColor software e Screen resolution of 800 x 600 pixels with true colors 24 bits e Mouse or other pointing device e FireWire interface User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Introduction How the Ixpress System Works Figure 1 The Ixpress System User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Introduction How the Ixpress System Works How the Ixpress System Works The Ixpress system has the following components See Figure 1 opposite Q Ixpress Digital Camera Back enables high end dig
13. 3 different sounds to indicate Camera Ready Image Overexposed and Image Underexposed respectively Use the Sound setting to enable or disable the sounds See Taking Pictures on page 43 for details Use the Date Time entry to set the current date and time The date and time is added to the image file information see page 19 User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back 28 Using the Control Panel In the Power Down entry you can set the time of inactivity after which the Image Bank and camera back should automatically turn off To turn the units on again use the On Off button on the Image Bank Basic System Set up Some parameters like camera model exposure time and ISO value can be adjusted either on the back itself or via the FlexColor user interface The settings are stored in the back If you change any of these settings on the back while working disconnected from the computer FlexColor will reflect these changes once the back is reconnected If you make the same changes in FlexColor while the back is not connected it will have no effect User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back Error Messages 29 Error Messages When working with the Ixpress system as a stand alone unit the following error messages in the Ixpress display ensure complete control of image quality Each message is accompanied by a low key error sound Image transfer error An error
14. 7 EEC 73 23 EEC amended by 93 68 EEC Standards to which Conformity is declared EN61000 6 1 2001 EN61000 6 3 2001 and EN 60950 2000 IM ANUTACCULEN siscssssesscescsssccccsocessssetececestbeasssesssscsconss Imacon A S Hejrevej 30 DK 2400 Copenhagen NV Denmark Digital Camera Back Model Name oc ccsccsisecssssacsssvssssvessdsesnncssndasssenssessssssses Ixpress 384C The undersigned hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directives and Standards Copenhagen NV october 16 2003 Christian Poulsen Managing Director Imacon A S Hejrevej 30 DK 2400 Copenhagen NV Tel 45 70 26 08 00 Fax 45 70 26 09 00 www imacon dk User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Technical Information CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 528C 55 CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 528C imacon A GLUNZ amp JENSEN COMPANY Declaration of conformity Application of Council Directives csesseees 89 336 EEC amended by 92 31 EEC 93 68 EEC 91 157 EEC 73 23 EEC amended by 93 68 EEC EN61000 6 1 2001 EN61000 6 3 2001 and EN 60950 2000 MANULAClUPERS siscessoscsstsocessctesessisecssssssssessnsscesessseense Imacon A S Hejrevej 30 DK 2400 Copenhagen NV Denmark Digital Camera Back Model NAME sicicesisseccsssnessscsissscesscsevescscnsesenceseasesssees Ixpress 528C The undersigned hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directives and
15. Imacon Ixpress Color Technical Information Technical Specifications Image Capturing Software Cameras supported Environmental Requirements Operating Storage Digital Camera Back CCD Size CCD Resolution Bits per color Output Size 8 16 bit RGB Data 1 Shot 4 Shot 4 Res Shot Light Sensitivity Max Exposure Time User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Technical Information Technical Specifications 49 Imacon FlexColor for Ixpress standalone application for either Macintosh or indows is required for capturing images with the camera backs Several models of cameras are supported each requiring a different adapter kit Contact your Ixpress dealer for an up to date list of supported cameras 5 to 35 C 32 to 95 F 20 to 80 RH no condensation 5 to 35 C 32 to 95 F 20 to 80 RH no condensation Ixpress 96C 36 9 x 36 9 mm 16 646 400 poe 4080 x 4080 16 bit 65 536 levels Ixpress 384C 36 9 x 36 9 mm 66 585 600 pixels 8160 x 8160 16 bit 65 536 levels 48 96 MB wa n a ISO 50 400 32 sec 48 96 MB 48 96 MB 192 384 MB ISO 50 400 32 sec continues Technical Information Technical Specifications Digital Camera Back Capture Rate incl preview Features Color Preview Histogram Feed back Acoustic Feed back Back Light Active Temperature Control Double Duration Circuit Weight Digital Camera Back CCD Size CCD Resolu
16. ark indicates the current setting Use Browse Scroll button to highlight new setting and press OK button to confirm To exit without making changes press MENU button Below are described the various settings available from the menu Delete Deletes the currently previewed image gt ELL Laie Shutter ISO Batch Hhite Balance Camera Exposure Info Camera Delays Setup Delete Image Use Browse Scroll button to highlight either Yes to delete or No to cancel then press OK button to confirm Shutter Sets the shutter time for the device Shutter 15d Batch Mhite Balance Camera Exposure Info Camera Delays Setup User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back Using the Control Panel 23 The shutter list will reflect the settings available for the selected camera type If you are working with one of the few camera bodies that allow the camera back to control the shutter speed then just use this to set the exposure time for each shot For other cameras make sure that this setting is the same as the shutter speed set on your camera otherwise you may experience stripes or noise in your images The settings marked with a or a are settings in between normal settings ex 1 60 lies between 1 60 and 1 30 These settings apply to cameras that have more steps for setting the shutter speed than others Shutter sett
17. camera body for synchronizing flash and exposure Make the connection just as you would using normal film 5 Switch on the computer 6 If you are using a battery press the Image Bank s On Off button and wait until the unit is ready status indicator green see page 32 for references 7 Start the FlexColor application See the FlexColor Software Reference manual for instructions about how to use the software User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Assembly and Use Assembling the Ixpress System 41 Stand alone on location Figure 8 Assembling the Ixpress System for stand alone use 1 Follow the directions provided with your Camera Back Adapter Kit to connect the adapter to your camera back mount the assembly on your camera body and attach a focusing screen Remember to keep the plastic CCD cover on when you are mounting the adapter see Figure 9 on page 45 but to take the cover off just before mounting the camera back adapter assembly on the camera Be sure to save the cover and place it on the camera back each time you remove the back from your camera body 2 Connect the camera link cable from the camera back s Link connector to the Link connector on the Image Bank Note Use the short Link cable 3 Mount the battery on the Image Bank See Mounting Dismounting the Battery on page 33 for details 4 Ifneeded attach a strobe lighting system to your camera body fo
18. cting the Image Bank to a computer In this case the computer will supply power to the unit 00 User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Image Bank Mounting Dismounting the Battery 33 Mounting Dismounting the Battery Figure 5 Mounting Dismounting the Battery Mounting the Battery To mount the battery on the Image Back follow procedure below see Figure 5 1 Lower the battery into the battery compartment Do not place it on top of the terminal pins 2 Push the battery as far as it goes towards and onto the terminal pins Dismounting the Battery NOTE Before dismounting the battery make sure that the Image Bank s hard disk is not busy the status indicator must be green then switch off the unit on the On Off button Push the battery away from and off the terminal pins then lift it off User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Image Bank 34 Battery Operation Battery Operation The Image Bank with a battery mounted in OFF mode will switch to ON mode when connected to the computer using the FireWire cable When cable is unplugged the Image Bank switches to OFF again If this causes problems for the workflow you can switch the Image Bank to ON before connecting the FireWire cable This way the Image Bank remembers that it was switched ON and stays that way when the cable is disconnected NOTE When the Image Bank is connected to the computer the system is always powered f
19. der you have the following options Drag and drop Simply select a number of thumbnails in the Contents window and drag them to the thumbnails window Show single image Select a single image in the Contents window and click the Show button Immediately the image will be shown in FlexColor s preview window and a transfer of the selected image to your thumbnails folder will start Double clicking or typing Return will have the same effect Load Dialog Using the Load Images dialog box gives you more control of the image transfer e Select the images you want to load and click Load A Load Images dialog box appears Transfer Selection Only L j Delete after transfer __ Change name Renumber from e From the Transfer pop up menu choose whether you want to load All Selection Only or Approved Check the Delete after transfer checkbox if you want the shots to be deleted from the Image Bank s hard disk after having loaded them to the computer Check the Change name checkbox if you want the shots to be renamed while loaded type the new name in the name field Check the Renumber from checkbox if you want the shots to be renumbered while loaded type the starting number in the number field Click Load The images will be transferred to and saved as 3F files in the currently selected Thumbnails folder on the computer User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Assembly and Use Assembling the I
20. e Imacon Ixpress Color The Image Bank Transferring Images 36 The Contents Window The Contents window displays the following Exposure mode Transferred mark 8 8 Ixpress 96 Contents l Getinfo Delete Show 3 E Load d Update af Approve v Include transferred Search Sort by Date i 2 o and approval wa cS Size Medium i PICTURE 0028 1 Images 78 Free 0 MB i fd PICTURE 0030 PICTURE 0031 1 1 Image name Selected Image Approval checkmark The exposure mode will be shown as one of the following values e 1 for single shot and preview shot e 4 for multi shot e 16 for micro step From the Contents window you have the following options Get Info Displays a basic image file information window for each of the selected shots Delete Deletes the currently selected shot s from the Image Bank s hard disk Show Shows the image in FlexColor s preview window and a transfer of the selected image to your thumbnails folder will start Double clicking or typing Return will have the same effect Load Transfers the selected shot s to the currently selected Thumbnails folder and saves them as 3F files User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Image Bank Transferring Images 37 Update Updates the Contents window with new pictures from the Image Bank Approve Approves the selected shot s When a shot is appr
21. e 4 Res module is optional for Ixpress 96C and 132C but standard for Ixpress 384C and 528C Link Cable The Link cable connects the camera back to the Image Bank The system comes with 2 cables a short one intended for stand alone use and a long one for studio use See Assembly and Use on page 39 for connection details FireWire Cable for connecting the Image Bank to a computer See Assembly and Use on page 39 for connection details FlexColor Software When working in a studio you can control all the digital camera operations from your computer using the FlexColor image capturing software See the FlexColor Software Reference manual for details User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Introduction 10 User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back General 11 The Ixpress Camera Back General The Ixpress Camera Back houses a light sensitive element called an area array CCD charge coupled device which acts as computer readable electronic film The surface of the CCD has 16 million Ixpress 96C and 384C or 22 million Ixpress 132C and 528C tiny light sensitive areas each of which creates a pixel in your final digital image In a color digital image each pixel has three color components red green and blue abbreviated RGB The pixels in the camera back s CCD are filtered to create three images one of each color which are later combined by the software to create a sin
22. e CCD itself This can only be removed at the Imacon factory Contact your Imacon dealer for assistance 5 Replace the protective cover or reattach the camera back to the camera immediately after cleaning Cleaning using the HAMA cleaning fluid and tissues Note Imacon recommends HAMA Optic Cleaning Fluid 5902 1 Carefully spray the fluid onto the IR filter at a distance of 10 15 cm 4 5 inches so that the fluid is applied onto the filter as a thin even haze 1 2 sprays are enough If you apply too little the fluid will start to dry up before you start wiping the filter As an alternative you can spray the fluid onto the tissue first and then apply it to the filter as you wipe it 2 Now fold the tissue several times to match the width of the IR filter you may use one or more tissues at a time if necessary to give youa better grip Be sure to fold the paper so that the coated glossy side faces outwards User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Care and Maintenance Technical Specifications 47 Note This is the side to be used to wipe the filter do not use the other side as it can do more damage than good Figure 10 Cleaning the Infrared Filter 3 Gently place the folded tissue onto the edge of the filter using two or three fingers see Figure 10 Apply firm pressure along the filter s edge to ensure equal wiping of the entire surface Sweep the filter only once Do not wipe the same area twice with the same tissue a
23. f noise in the captured image Exposure Info shows a histogram curve indicating the overall brightness and contrast of the current shot see Taking Pictures on page 43 for details From the Setup menu you can select whether or not to display the histogram see Setup on page 27 for details Status Indicator indicates that power is supplied to the camera back and the color indicates the current status of the camera back Red Error Yellow Busy and Green Ready OK button use to enter Browse function and to change confirm settings see Using the Control Panel on page 16 for details Browse Scroll button use to browse through images in the Image Bank and to scroll through menu items see Using the Control Panel on page 16 for details Use the button to enter the zoom function and to move the zoom box around see Zooming on page 17 for details The button also can be set to function as an exposure button see Device Settings Menu on page 22 for details MENU button displays the Menu from where you can make the various device settings see Using the Control Panel on page 16 for details Oo 8 8 User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color 16 The Ixpress Camera Back Using the Control Panel Using the Control Panel Displaying Images When power is supplied to the camera back it starts up showing the main window The picture displayed in the main window is the latest shot
24. gle full color image Four capture modes exist the mode you choose depends on your situation see Shooting Modes on page 12 for details Preview mode takes fast shots for checking setup and exposure e Single shot mode for moving objects e Multi shot mode for high resolution shots of still objects e Micro step mode for ultra high resolution shots of still objects Only applies to devices fitted with the 4 Res module The camera back receives power via its connection to the Image Bank When working in a studio you can control all the digital camera operations from your computer using the FlexColor software see the FlexColor Software Reference manual for details If using the system as a stand alone unit the camera back s built in digital light meter with full histogram display and audio exposure warnings helps to ensure a perfect exposure and all capturing settings are controlled from the Ixpress Control Panel see The Ixpress Control Panel page 14 for details User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back 12 Shooting Modes Shooting Modes The Ixpress system is able to capture images in four different modes each of which is optimized for a different situation Preview Mode for Quick Setups Takes a single shot and applies minimal processing This type of capture appears most quickly on your screen Use it to check your exposure and composition and to make initial neutraliza
25. ings marked with a B indicates that the camera shutter must be set to position B manual control The actual shutter setting is added to the image file information see page 19 n ISO Enables you to select between ISO sensitivities of 50 100 200 or 400 Delete ISO Batch Hhite Balance Camera Exposure Info Camera Delays Setup Please note that the basic sensitivity of the CCD sensor is ISO 50 When working with a higher ISO setting the noise in the final image increases as grain on film To achieve the highest quality it is recommended to use the lowest possible ISO value Batch The Batch function makes it easy to identify images from various photo sessions Delete Shutter BABB L 150 Batch Hhite Balance TELTE gt BABI Camera Exposure Info Camera Delays Setup User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back 24 Using the Control Panel When starting a new photo session first define a new batch name either by using the name automatically assigned by Ixpress or use a name of your own choice Every capture will now be named with the current batch name followed by automatically generated consecutive numbers starting from P0000 White Balance Select the flash type used when capturing the image FlexColor uses the setting as reference when neutralizing the preview image Flash Hhite Balance
26. ital capturing See The Ixpress Camera Back on page 11 for a detailed description The Image Bank controls the communication between camera back and computer and supplies power to the camera back When using the system as a stand alone unit the Image Bank can store more than 1000 shots depends on Camera Back model on its hard disk to be transferred to the computer later See The Image Bank on page 31 for details Battery for powering the Image Bank and camera back when used as a stand alone unit See Technical Specifications on page 49 for appropriate battery types Camera Back Adapter Kit To connect the Ixpress Camera Back to your camera body you must use an adapter kit Each camera type requires a unique adapter because of their different contact point locations and adaption mechanisms Every adapter kit includes everything required including an adapter plate a focusing screen mask a user s manual and possibly more depending on the type of adapter you are using Adapter kits must be ordered separately please contact your Ixpress dealer for an up to date list of available kits 4 Res Module When using the Ixpress system in a studio the 4 Res module can increase the resolution of the captures up to 528 MB per image With the module you use multiple exposures to allow the entire CCD area to capture each color without interpolation thereby providing maximum color fidelity and resolution NOTE Th
27. lass A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual may cause harmful interference to radio communications Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Technical Information CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 96C 52 CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 96C imacon A GLUNZ amp JENSEN COMPANY Declaration of conformity Application of Council Directives essceseees 89 336 EEC amended by 92 31 EEC 93 68 EEC 91 157 EEC 73 23 EEC amended by 93 68 EEC Standards to which Conformity is declared EN61000 6 1 2001 EN61000 6 3 2001 and EN 60950 2000 Manufacturer siscssssesscescisscscisocossssetececestbeassssssssdsconss Imacon A S Hejrevej 30 DK 2400 Copenhagen NV Denmark Digital Camera Back Model Name oc ccsccsisecssssacsssvssssvessdsesnncssndasssenssessssssses Ixpress 96C The undersigned hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directives and Standards Copenhagen NV september 30 2003 Ch
28. ng in a studio you can control all the digital camera operations from your computer using the FlexColor image capturing software When initiating a shot from FlexColor the computer sends a signal through the Image Bank to the camera back which triggers the camera shutter and strobe lights The camera back then sends the image back through the Image Bank over the FireWire connection to the computer where it is displayed on the screen and saved as a 16 bit per color 3F file in the currently selected folder The 3F file format is a special extended TIFF format developed by Imacon See the FlexColor Software Reference manual for a detailed description Please refer to the FlexColor Software Reference manual for further instructions about taking pictures using FlexColor Stand alone Follow the description below to take pictures using the Ixpress system as a stand alone unit NOTE It is assumed that the Ixpress Camera Back the Image Bank and the camera have been properly connected as described on page 41 and that the system is powered on 1 Make the required device settings as described in Changing Device Settings on page 21 2 Take your picture 3 The image will be stored immediately in the Image Bank and the Ixpress display will show a preview User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Assembly and Use Taking Pictures 44 1 89 456 783 _ 1 8 9456 7683 In case the max point exceeds 0 hi
29. ngs used Time for the current image FHA 7 16 84 14 57 49 Single shot F16 irg Flash and if you select Histogram the histogram for the current image is displayed Deleting Images or Batches Deleting images is possible from both the main display and in Browse mode while deleting batches is only possible in Browse mode From the main display you can delete the currently previewed image by pressing the MENU button and in the pop up menu highlight Delete and press OK button Mhite Balance Use Browse Scroll button to highlight either Yes to delete or No to cancel then press OK button to confirm User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Camera Exposure Delete Image The Ixpress Camera Back 20 Using the Control Panel Alternatively press OK button to enter Browse mode use Browse Scroll button to find the image you want to delete and press MENU button In the menu highlight Delete and press OK Mi igaran n button Delete i Use Browse Scroll button to highlight either Yes to delete or No to cancel then press OK button to confirm Delete Image If you want to delete a whole batch of images select Delete Batch from the menu and press OK button Histogram Delete Delete Batch i In the appearing batches list highlight the batch you wish to delete and press OK button Use Browse Scroll button to highlight either Yes to delete or No
30. olor 4 Table of Contents Care and Maintenance Handling and Storage Cleaning the Infrared Filter Cleaning the Housings Technical Information Technical Specifications Disposal FCC Notice CE Declaration of Conformity xpress 96C CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 132C CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 384C CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 528C 45 45 46 48 49 49 51 sK 52 53 54 55 User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Introduction a A introduction This manual gives information specific to the Imacon Ixpress digital Camera Back and Image Bank Refer to this manual to find out how your digital camera system operates and how to care for and clean the units If you are having trouble refer to the troubleshooting chapter of the Getting Started with Ixpress and FlexColor manual for help To mount the camera back on your specific type of camera body you must have the correct Ixpress Camera Adapter Kit for your camera model See the documentation for your camera adapter for specific instructions about fitting the camera back to your camera and for other information specific to your configuration The capturing software for Ixpress is called FlexColor For information about using the software please refer to the FlexColor Software Reference manual User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Introduction Warnings and Restrictions Warnings and Restrictions General e Read all instructions
31. osure button when pressing the center of the button When using the Timer function the camera back will automatically capture a shot when the set time runs out The Interval function makes the camera capture a number of shots at fixed intervals Please note that a 5 sec exposure extend feature is available on some cameras This feature extends the current exposure setting with up to 5 sec if needed Info Shows the serial numbers of your xpress Camera Back and Image Bank IX6 276698681 1377279 IX6 2661661 4335477193 iShots 1268 45hots 98 1L65hts 1275 Video id ih im Onlime 418d fh 16m It also lists the total number of captures shot in single shot multi shot and micro step mode respectively the time used in Live Video mode and the total time in which the unit has been switched on User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back 26 Using the Control Panel Camera delays When you initiate a capture either directly from the camera back or pressing your camera s exposure button or clicking on the Capture button in FlexColor a short amount of time elapses between the moment you issue the expose command and the moment the flash is fired The camera body needs to allow some time for its internal mechanics to for example move the mirror and open the shutter The camera back must know this time so that it can correctly synchronize the shutter flash and CCD exposure Shutter Delay
32. oved a checkmark is applied to the thumbnail Sort by Use this pop up menu to choose whether the thumbnails should be sorted by Date the order in which they were created or by Name If you wish to reverse the sorting order click the Descending Ascending button to the right of the POP EY Also it is possible to extend the sorting by checking the and approval checkbox Size Use this pop up menu to choose how large you would like the icons to appear in the Contents window Images Displays the total number of images currently stored on the Image Bank s hard disk Free Displays the free space on the Image Bank s hard disk Image Searching Using the Search field enables you to filter the Contents window contents Simply enter the text you want to search for and type Return and only images containing this text will be shown To return to an unfiltered display simply delete the text from the Search field and type Return Show Transferred Images By default the Contents window will only show images that has not been transferred to the current thumbnails folder but selecting the Include transferred option will enable you to see all stored images in this case transferred images are marked with a small arrow in the upper left corner User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Image Bank Transferring Images 38 Transferring the Images To transfer the images from the Image Bank to the currently selected Thumbnails fol
33. r synchronizing flash and exposure Make the connection just as you would using normal film 5 Ifnecessary you can attach the Image Bank to your belt or pocket using the Belt Clip on the back side of the device 6 Press the Image Bank s On Off button and wait until the unit is ready status indicator green see page 32 for references User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color 42 Assembly and Use Ixpress Camera Connection Ixpress Camera Connection There are two ways of connecting the Ixpress camera back to the camera to obtain exposures triggered from the camera release button e Using the adapter plate with internal contacts or the exposure cable e Using the adapter plate and a Flash Sync connection from the camera back to the shutter or lens Dependent on the chosen operating mode the Ixpress camera back needs to be set up accordingly see Device Settings Menu on page 22 for references e Use the Camera entry to select camera model e Use the Exposure entry to set up exposure mode e Use the Shutter entry to select basic interval of speeds Not available for all camera models User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Assembly and Use Taking Pictures 43 Taking Pictures Basically there are two ways to work with the Ixpress system e Ina studio with the system connected to a computer using FlexColor e On location using the system as a stand alone unit Using FlexColor When worki
34. ristian Poulsen Managing Director Imacon A S Hejrevej 30 DK 2400 Copenhagen NV Tel 45 70 26 08 00 Fax 45 70 26 09 00 www imacon dk User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Technical Information CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 132C 53 CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 132C imacon A GLUNZ amp JENSEN COMPANY Declaration of conformity Application of Council Directives csesseees 89 336 EEC amended by 92 31 EEC 93 68 EEC 91 157 EEC 73 23 EEC amended by 93 68 EEC EN61000 6 1 2001 EN61000 6 3 2001 and EN 60950 2000 MANULAClUPERS siscessoscsstsocessctesessisecssssssssessnsscesessseense Imacon A S Hejrevej 30 DK 2400 Copenhagen NV Denmark Digital Camera Back Model NAME sicicesisseccsssnessscsissscesscsevescscnsesenceseasesssees Ixpress 132C The undersigned hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directives and Standards Copenhagen NV october 15 2003 Christian Poulsen Managing Director Imacon A S Hejrevej 30 DK 2400 Copenhagen NV Tel 45 70 26 08 OO Fax 45 70 26 09 00 www imacon dk User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Technical Information CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 384C 54 CE Declaration of Conformity Ixpress 384C imacon A GLUNZ amp JENSEN COMPANY Declaration of conformity Application of Council Directives essceseees 89 336 EEC amended by 92 31 EEC 93 68 EEC 91 15
35. rom here even with the battery connected The battery will not be affected in any way Battery Lifetime The reference battery lifetime for battery type NP F550 is 1 45 hour for a fully charged battery when shooting at 10 sec intervals capturing half the capacity of the Image Bank approx 600 exposures If you expose with larger intervals the battery lifetime is increased some but the number of exposures is reduced The other way around if intervals are decreased Please note that the temperature has influence on the results At low temperatures the battery life decreases a lot For outside shooting you should keep charged batteries in your pocket or another warm place to have them perform at their best User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Image Bank Transferring Images 35 Transferring Images All shots saved to the Image Bank s hard disk must be transferred to a computer for viewing selecting and processing Figure 6 Connecting the Image Bank to the computer Connecting the Image Bank to the computer To connect the Image Bank to the computer follow description below see Figure 6 e Start your computer launch the FlexColor application and open the Thumbnails window e Connect the Image Bank to the computer using a FireWire cable e Switch on the Image Bank on the On Off button e Within a few seconds a Contents window is available with thumbnails of all images ready to load User s Guid
36. s transferred from the CCD The Auto option sets the post delay time to a fixed percentage of the exposure time User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back Using the Control Panel 27 If you experience noise in the captured images you should try to increase the post delay time using the Set option Use the Ready gt Mode Timeout function to set the time after which the camera back CCD switches into a sleep mode thus generating less heat Note The first capture performed hereafter will act as a wake up capture and be accompanied by an error message saying Bad Exposure This capture should be deleted instantly Setup This function holds the general settings for the camera back Delete Shutter IS Batch Mhite Balance Camera Show Histogram Show Info Thai Light Delay 15 Exposure Info Camera Delays Date Y H D HH2 HYD SH Sound Time Date Time H H Power Down HO AS Power Down Minutes B38 Use the Display gt Show Histogram and Show Info settings to display the histogram and info bar respectively for the current image on top of the preview image see Displaying Images on page 16 Use the Display gt Light setting to turn the display background light on or off When using the Delay function the light is set to automatically turn off after a certain time of inactivity The camera back is able to play
37. s you might reapply dirt removed in the first sweep potentially making things worse 4 Finally check if the IR filter has been properly cleaned either by visual inspection or by mounting the camera back to the camera and making a shot If further cleaning is needed repeat cleaning procedure Cleaning with an e wipe E wipes are individually packed wet tissues 1 Tear at the notch to break seal 2 Gently remove e wipe from packaging and without delay begin cleaning procedure 3 Fold the tissue to match the width of the surface to be cleaned 4 Apply firm pressure using two or three fingers at the edge of the wipe to ensure evenly firm contact to filter surface see Figure 10 Wipe surface in one unbroken motion User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Care and Maintenance Cleaning the Housings 48 Note Do not use same side of the e wipe twice as you will be likely to reapply any particles removed in the first pass potentially damaging the filter 5 Finally check if the IR filter has been properly cleaned either by visual inspection or by mounting the camera back to the camera and making a shot If further cleaning is needed repeat cleaning procedure Cleaning the Housings If the camera back or Image Bank housings becomes dirty clean them with a soft clean cloth lightly moistened with water only Do not use any other solvents on your camera back Do not allow water to get inside the devices User s Guide
38. stogram curve is cut off at the right side of the display it indicates an overexposure and the camera back will play a warning sound while an Over Exposed message flashes on the display In this case either choose a smaller aperture turn down the flash light select a shorter exposure time or change ISO setting to a lower value If the histogram curve is cut off at the left side of the display it indicates an underexposure and the camera back will play a warning sound while an Under Exposed message flashes on the display In this case either choose a larger aperture turn up the flash light select a longer exposure time or change ISO setting to a higher value can increase the noise in the image 4 Delete under and over exposed images see how to on page 19 5 Change settings if required and take the picture again 6 When finished connect the Image Bank to your computer to transfer the images see Transferring Images on page 35 for details User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Care and Maintenance Handling and Storage 45 Care and Maintenance Handling and Storage e Always replace the protective CCD cover when the camera back is not mounted on your camera see Figure 9 Figured CCD Cover e Do not touch the exposed CCD or infrared filter with your fingers Keep all foreign objects out of the CCD opening e Store your camera back and Image Bank away from moisture and excessive heat see
39. tion Bits per color Output Size 8 16 bit RGB Data 1 Shot 4 Shot 4 Res Shot Light Sensitivity Max Exposure Time Capture Rate incl preview Features Color Preview Histogram Feed back Acoustic Feed back Back Light Active Temperature Control Double Duration Circuit Weight Ixpress 96C Ixpress 132C 36 9 x 49 mm 22 195 200 poe 4080 x 544 16 bit 65 536 levels 66 132 MB n a n a ISO 50 400 32 sec 2 sec yes yes yes yes yes yes Ixpress 384C 2 sec 1 Shot yes yes yes yes yes yes 0 6 kg Ixpress 528C 36 9 x 49 mm 88 780 800 pixels 8160 x 10880 16 bit 65 536 levels 66 132 MB 66 132 MB 264 528 MB ISO 50 400 Gy SEC 2 sec 1 Shot yes yes yes yes yes yes 0 6 kg User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Image Bank Image Capacity xpress 96C 384C xpress 132C 528C Mac PC Connection Battery Type Duration constant shooting External Power Supply Power Consumption Weight Disposal Technical Information Disposal 51 1000 images 850 images FireWire IEE 1394 Sony InfoLithium L series NP F550 NP F750 NP F960 Up to 8 hours 24V DC Imacon Part No 99994 10 W 0 68 kg If you need to dispose of the camera back Image Bank and or batteries they must be delivered to the local waste plant FCC Notice This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a C
40. tion settings Single Shot Mode for Moving Subjects Takes a single shot and applies full processing If you are shooting people animals flowing water or other moving objects or if you are shooting from a hand held camera then you must use single shot mode Single shot images are fully rendered and processed so they take slightly longer than previews and the results are of production quality Multi Shot Mode for High Resolution Stills NOTE Only applies to devices fitted with the 4 Res module see page 9 for details If you are shooting unmoving objects such as room interiors studio sets or product shots then you can use multi shot mode In this mode four exposures are taken one for each color but with green shot twice for extra sharpness each of which uses the entire CCD This means that no interpolation is needed to create the final color image Images taken in multi shot mode will be sharper and contain more detail than single shot images Multi shot images will also stand up to greater enlargement later in production Micro Step Mode for Ultra High Resolution Stills NOTE Only applies to devices fitted with the 4 Res module see page 9 for details Micro step mode extends the multi shot functionality by dividing each tiny light sensitive area into 4 pixels and taking a total of 16 exposures This creates an up to 8160 x 10880 pixels image and digital files of up to 528 MB Micro step images will stand up to even
41. to cancel then press OK button to confirm Delete Batch User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back Using the Control Panel 21 Changing Device Settings The camera back holds a menu from where you can make all device settings see Device Settings Menu on page 22 for details From the main display press MENU button 456 703 i The menu pops up I Delete Use Browse Scroll button to scroll through z the menu items Batch Please note that holding down the button will e aa make scrolling quicker Exposure Example Use Browse Scroll button to select the ISO item KELLES Note that the current setting 50 is displayed Shutter when the item is highlighted Press OK button to enter Camera Exposure Use Browse Scroll button to select the new setting and press OK button The unit will return to show the main display User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back 22 Using the Control Panel Device Settings Menu The menu holds all the parameters for setting up the device Note The contents of the menu may vary from one camera model to another depending on the functions supported by the current camera To enter the menu press MENU button from the main window Use Browse Scroll button to scroll through the menu items please note that holding down the button will make scrolling quicker To enter an item highlight it and press OK button A check m
42. u to browse through all pictures currently saved in the Image Bank to read information and exposure data from each picture and to make basic camera settings The control panel holds the following see Figure 3 Image preview generated within 2 secs Image Info shows info items and for the image currently previewed From the Setup menu you can select whether or not to display the info see Setup on page 27 for details Picture name shows the name of the picture currently previewed The name given to each new shot is based on the setting of the Batch parameter see page 23 for details User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color The Ixpress Camera Back The xpress Control Panel 15 Image counter shows the number of images currently stored 456 in the Image Bank and how many images there are left until the Image Bank is full 703 Please note that the total number of images that can be stored on the Image Bank depends on the current Camera Back model Shutter time shows the current setting The shutter time controls how long the CCD will be exposed for the current image See page 22 for details about setting the shutter time Battery Low appears and flashes to indicate low charge state of the Image Bank battery when operating the Ixpress system disconnected from the computer ISO high appears and flashes to indicate that current ISO setting is higher than 50 and thereby increasing the risk o
43. xpress System 39 Assembly and Use Assembling the Ixpress System Your Ixpress system is very easy to assemble Use the procedures below to set up your system In the Studio Figure 7 Assembling the Ixpress System in the Studio 1 Follow the directions provided with your Camera Back Adapter Kit to connect the adapter to your camera back mount the assembly on your camera body and attach a focusing screen Remember to keep the plastic CCD cover on when you are mounting the adapter see Figure 9 on page 45 but to take the cover off just before mounting the camera back adapter assembly on the camera User s Guide Imacon Ixpress Color Assembly and Use Assembling the Ixpress System 40 Be sure to save the cover and place it on the camera back each time you remove the back from your camera body 2 Connect the camera link cable from the camera back s Link connector to the Link connector on the Image Bank Note Use the long Link cable 3 Connect the FireWire cable between the Image Bank s FireWire socket and the computer Note If you are connecting the Image Bank to a computer ex a laptop computer which is incapable of supplying sufficient power to the Image Bank it will be necessary to mount the battery as well or to connect an external power supply unit see Technical Specifications on page 49 for details 4 Ifneeded attach a strobe lighting system to your
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