Pentax LX LX Manual - Page 47

MAINTAINING THE CAMERA •Always keep the viewfinder eyepiece, finder surface, lens and filters as clean as possible. Remove loose dust and dirt by first using a lens blower and then brushing gently with a camel's hair lens brush. Avoid scratching optical surfaces by trying to wipe away granular dust or grit. Smudges and fingerprint marks should be carefully wiped off using lens tissue or a clean soft cloth. A clean, previously-washed plain handkerchief is particularly good for this purpose. In extreme cases, use a good quality lens cleaning fluid to remove stubborn smudges. •Never touch the mirror or the shutter curtain, particularly when changing the interchangeable focusing screen. When changing screens, use the pincette as described on page 48. Minor dirt or spots on the mirror will not affect the clarity of your photos. •Whenever possible, carry your camera with its neck strap or in a carrying case or gadget bag. Accidentally dropping the camera can cause serious damage in the internal mechanisms. •Be particularly careful not to drop the finder when changing viewfinder models. Slide the finder back slowly to avoid damage to the optical surfaces. •Although your LX has specially-designed gaskets to minimize the possibility of damage from moisture, it is not waterproof. Several places exist where water can get inside and damage internal mechanisms. Protect both the camera body and lens from rain or splashing water. If the camera should get wet, dry it off immediately with a clean soft cloth. If it becomes submerged in salt water, place it in a pail of fresh water to retard the onset of corrosion and take it immediately to a Pentax Service Center to determine if repairs can be effected. •The automatic shutter of the LX will operate over a temperature range of 50°C (122°F) to -20°C (-4°F), and the mechanical shutter will function from 50°C (122°F) to -30°C (-22°F). To assure reliable operation of the automatic shutter in low temperatures carry spare batteries. •Always store your camera in a cool, dry, clean and well-ventilated place when it is not in use to avoid the possibility of damage due to condensation buildup. This is particularly important in areas of high humidity. Keep the camera in its case or in a gadget bag with the lens cap on as added protection. Condensation also builds up when bringing the camera into a warm room from the extreme cold, or vice versa. This can be prevented by immediately placing the camera in its case, bag or wrapping so that temperature changes gradually. 45*