Hasselblad 553ELX Film Camera Instruction Manual

553S3ELX
HASSELBLAD
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Hasselblad 553ELX Instruction Manual
Page
3 Introduction
4 Parts and Components
6 Basic Instructions
6 Batteries and Fuse
8 Normal Settings
8 Front Protective Cover
8 Rear Protective Cover
8 Attachingthe Lens
3 Removing the Lens
10 Attaching the Magazine
10 Removing the Magazine
11 Camera and Magazine Indicators
12 Focusing Hood and Magnifier
13 Strap Lugs
13 Left Hand Grip
13 focus and Release
14 Operating Details
14 Exposure
14 Time Exposure and Locking (LOT) Lever
15 Release Sockets
15 Release Cords
16 Mode Selector Dial
17 Remote Control Socket
17 Double Exposure
18 Battery Types
19 Battery Check
20 Lens and Shutter Functions
20 Shutterspeeds
20 Aperture
21 Exposure Values
Copyright © 1992, Victor Hasselblad AB.
All rights reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form
or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the
Company
Page
21 Shutter Speed/Aperture Interlock
22 Focusing and Depth of Field
22 Infrared Photography
23 Checking Depth of Field
23 Flash Synchronization
24 Magazine Operation
24 Loadingthe Magazine
26 Load Status
26 Removing the Film
26 Film Tab Holder
26 Changing the Magazine Status Indicator
26 Film Plane Index
27 Viewfinder System
27 Changing the Viewfinder
27 Changing the Magnifier
28 Changing the Focusing Screen
28 PMEand PME3/PMES Viewfinder Adjustment
31 Automatic Flash Control
32 Flash Adapters SCA390/590
32 Film Speed Setting
33 Viewfinder Signal
34 Accessories
34 Accessory Mounts
35 Accessory Chart
36 Technical Specification
37 Camera Body Dimensions
38
39
40
Troubleshooting
Circuit Diagram
Camera Care, Service and Guarantee
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Guarantee
Provided that you bought your camera from an
authorized Hasselblad outlet, it is covered by an
international guarantee for one year. Further
details can be found on page 40.
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Service and Maintenance
While Hasselblad equipment is extremely reli-
able and durable, cameras and lenses that are in
constant intensive use in a professional environ-
ment should be maintained and serviced by an
authorized Hasselblad service center at regular
intervals. Further information on service and
maintenance can be found on page 40.
Introduction to the Hasselblad Camera System
As a Hasselblad owner, you have in your
possession a camera of exceptional quality,
the product of an internationally renowned
tradition of excellence in the world of pho-
tography. Victor Hasselblad, the father of
the cameras which bear his name, was
himself an accomplished photographer. |t
was to satisfy his own exacting standards
and diverse requirements that he first
envisioned the Hasselblad system: a me-
dium format single lens reflex camera with
interchangeable lenses and film magazines.
A photographer first and businessman
second, Victor Hasselblad would never
sacrifice quality for ease of production. To
this day, Hasselblad cameras are pain-
stakingly crafted with this principle in mind.
The Hasselblad system has been taken to
the ends of the earth and beyond — into
space, to earn its reputation for reliability and
absolute fidelity. A range of accessories
affords limitless flexibility and the potential
for successful photography in any application.
The realisation of this potential is of course
dependant upon the skill, careand judgement
of the photographer.
The Hasselblad 553EL X is a motorized single
lens reflex camera featuring lens, magazine,
viewfinder, and focusing screen interchange-
ability. It is capable of TTL/OTF (Through
The Lens/Off The Film’) flash metering,
providing direct full control of the Hasselblad
Proflash 4504 flash unit or, with Hasselblad
flash adapters SCA 330 and 590, of the
Hasselblad Macro Flash unit orany flash unit
conforming to the European Systems SCA
300 and 500. When the flash output is
sufficient to provide a correct exposure the
flash units’ discharge is automatically cut off,
TTL/OTF metering is particularly important
when using electronic flash for macro
photography.
Lenses
Since the early 1850's the Hasselblad lenses
have been manufactured by Carl Zeiss in
Germany. All C and CF lenses manufactured
after 1957 can be used with the 553ELX.
F-type lenses, however, can only be used
with Hasselblad focal plane shutter cameras
manufactured after 1976.
Use this manual to learn how to operate
your camera. The knowledge gained from
reading it will give you access to the Hassel-
blad potential. Exploiting the potential is left
to your imagination!
19 18 17
16 15
S53ELX Parts and Components
1 Focusing hood
2 Acute-Matte® focusing screen
3 Screen retaining clip
4 Flash function indicator
5 Drive shaft
6 Lens release button
7 Focusing ring and scale
8 Shutter speed and aperture
interlock button
9 Lens central index
10 Depth-of-field scale
11 Aperture ring and scale
12 Shutter speed ring and scale
13 PC flash terminal
14 External and internal lens
accessory mount
15 Exposure value scale
16 Exposure value index
17 Release button
18 Front release sockets
19 FK30 release cord
20 Time exposure and locking
lever
21 Remote release socket
22 Remote socket cover
23 Camera status indicator
24 Strap lug
25 Frame counter
25 Magazine status indicator
27 Film plane index
28 Film winding crank
29 Magazine designation
30 Mode selector
31 Name plate
32 Magazine catch button
"Acute-Maite designed by MINOLTA
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
Focusing hood magnifier
Magazine slide
Film holder key
Film load indicator
Film tab holder
Motor housing
Tripod socket 1/4" thread
Quick-coupling plate
41 Fuse holder
42 Fuse
43 Battery compartment
44 Lens drive coupling
45 Battery compartment cover
46 Battery check button
47 Battery check lights
48 Cover locking button
49 Depth-of-field preview button
50 Flash connector cover
51 Dedicated Hash connector
92 Lens locating index
53 Accessory rail
54 Strap lug
55 Film speed selector
NOTE: In the text, the positions of components are described in relation to the camera as you see it
when taking a photograph, i.e. the lensis onthe front, the viewfinder is in the top, and the winding crank
is on the right hand side.
7
Basic Operation
This section describes the steps you must take to
make the camera ready to use. Follow the steps
as they are described. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO
ATTACH THE LENS TO À CAMERA WITHOUT
BATTERIES. You will find comprehensive infor-
mation on how to operate the camera in the
following sections.
Batteries and Fuse
You cannot operate the camera until you have
inserted the batteries and the fuse into the bat-
tery compartment. To get access to the battery
compartment you have to remove the cover on
the left hand side of the motor housing, i.e. the
lower section of the camera body. You unlock the
cover by inserting a suitable coin into the cover
locking button slot and turning it counter-clock-
wise into a vertical position. Now you can remave
the cover by opening the rear end outwards and
disengaging the hooks in the front end.
The Battery Compartment
When you have removed the cover the battery
compartment will be exposed. If you look closely
at the battery receptacles, you will see that there
is a symbol moulded inside each one, indicating
which way each battery should be inserted. Cn
the front face of the compartment at the bottom
is another moulding that represents a battery,
showing the positive and negative ends and the
various different designations of the required
battery type.
The Batteries
You will need five 1.5V alkaline batteries size AA
(alternative designations are LR6 or AM-3}. Fresh
batteries will give you up to 4000 exposures at
ambient temperatures above 32°F (0°C).
Regarding use of other battery types, see page 18,
Battery Types).
The Fuse
The fuse is a 5 x 20mm instrument fuse rated
1.6А medium slow-blow (semi time-lag).
Fitting the Batteries
Fit the batteries into the compartment in accor-
dance with the symbols moulded into the recep-
tacles. Once fitted the positive (+) ends of the two
uppermost batteries and the negative (—) ends of
the other three, should be visible. Fit the fuse into
its receptacle at the top right hand side of the
battery compartment. It is always advisable to
have a spare fuse, which can conveniently be
carried in the hole directly below the fuse recep-
tacle.
When you refit the cover you must ensure that
the two hooks in the front of the cover positively
engage in the corresponding slots in the front of
the motor housing. Firmly holding the hooks in
place you insert the coin in the lock button slot.
Keeping the slot strictly vertical you push the
cover against the resistance of the contact
springs until the lock pin engages in the slot in the
motor housing. While pushing you turn the lock
button clockwise until it stops (approximately
1/4 turn) and the cover will be locked in place.
NOTE: If the camera has been released using
the lock/time (LOT) lever without batteries
inserted, the mechanism remains in the re-
leased state. When the cover is positioned
after batteries have been inserted the power
circuit is closed and the camera will start and
complete the rewind cycle.
Normal Settings
While setting up the camera as described in this
section, it is important that both the mode selec-
tor dial and the 'LOT' lever are set in the ‘O’
position. You will find detailed information about
these items on pages 14 and 16.
Front Protective Cover
Turn the cover (bayonet fitting) in the direction of
the arrow and remove.
Rear Protective Cover
Depress the catch, tilt the cover backwards, and
lift it off.
Attaching the Lens
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ATTACH THE LENS TO
A CAMERA WITHOUT BATTERIES!
Make sure that both camera and lens are fully
cocked. The adjacent illustration shows the cor-
rect relationship between the drive shaft, the lens
drive coupling and their indexes.
If the camera is not fully cocked (it may have
been accidentally pre-released), press and re-
lease the release plate. The camera will then
wind on and be fully cocked.
If the lens is not cocked, you can insert a coin in
the coupling slot and rotate it clockwise until it
locks (about 4/5 of a turn).
You will find that holding the camera in your left
hand and the lens in your right hand, as shown in
the illustration, is the easiest way of attaching the
lens.
When you have aligned the crange Index on the
lens with the one on the camera as shown in the
illustration, the lens will be correctly positioned
into the bayonet fitting. You can then rotate it
clockwise until it stops with a faint click as the
lens catch locks it in place.
Removing the Lens
Depress the lens release button and rotate the
lens counter-clockwise until it stops.
NOTE: You can only remove the lens when
the camera is cocked (fully wound) and not in
the pre-released mode (see page 16).
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Attaching the Magazine
Ensure that the magazine slide is fully inserted,
and that the indicators are white. If the indicators
are not white, then refer to the instruction on
page 11.
Rest the magazine on the camera's magazine
supports and make sure that itis properly located
on them. Carefully swing the magazine towards
the camera body and check that the camera's
magazine hooks fit into the slots in the magazine.
Push the magazine gently but firmly against the
hooks while sliding the magazine catch button te
the right.
Release the button when the magazine has
made contact with the rear plate of the camera,
and push itto the left to ensure that it has reached
the locked position. Remove the magazine slide
and the camera is ready to use,
Removing the Magazine
It is advisable to have the camera cocked (fully
wound} and the magazine indicator displaying
white, If the magazine indicator shows a red
signal then follow the instructions on page 11.
Insert the magazine slide into the magazine with
the hinge towards the front of the camera.
Slide the magazine catch to the right, swing the
magazine back and lift it off the magazine sup-
ports.
NOTE: The magazine cannot be removed
without inserting the magazine slide. The
slide protects the film from being inadvertantly
ruined by exposure. Note also that the camera
cannot be operated when a magazine, with
slide inserted, is attached to the camera.
Camera and Magazine Indicators
The 553ELX camera indicator is permanently set
on white. The magazine indicator shows whether
the film has been advanced (white) or not (red).
When the magazine is attached to a camera
body, it can also be used to determine whether
the camera has been released but not wound on
(red) or is ready to be operated (white). The ex-
ception is when the magazine has been removed
to produce a double exposure, see page 17.
If the magazine indicator shows red, the film has
to be advanced to change the indicator to white.
This can be carried out in two different ways. The
procedure below has to be used on frame No. 1
and can be used on all consecutive frames.
1. Set the 'LOT' lever from the O (normal posi-
tion), to the T (time exposure) position.
2. Attach the magazine to the camera, leaving
the magazine slide in place.
3. Return the lever to the O position. The camera
will now start to wind the film on and the
magazine status indicator will change to white.
A simpler method to advance the film on all
frames except frame No. 1 is described on
page 26.
12
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Opening the Focusing Hood
Open the lid by gripping the tab firmly and lifting
it to the vertical position.
The Built-in Magnifier
The magnifier flips up into the viewing position
when the oval button inside the lid is moved inthe
direction of the arrow.
To fold the magnifier down simply press it back
with your fingertip until it locks into the lid.
The magnifier may be exchanged for correction
lenses. See page 27.
Closing the Focusing Hood
“Pinch” in the side plates at the hinge points, and
fold the lid down.
Strap Lugs
Strap Attachment
Place the main body of the strap clip over one of
the camera's strap lugs. Press down on the tip of
the clip and pull back, and ensure that the locking
plate secures the strap in place.
Strap Removal
Lift the clip locking plate and slide the clip for-
ward. The strap is then freed frem the camera.
Left Hand Grip
You will find that holding the camera in your left
hand with your index finger on the release plate,
as shown in the illustration, is most convenient
when taking photographs. Your right hand is then
free for focusing, setting the exposure and
changing the lens or magazine.
Focus and Release
Before you can take a photograph, you must
remove the magazine slide. The magazine will
then be locked on the camera body, and the
camera release plate will be operative.
Rotate the focusing ring on the lens until you can
see a sharp image of the subject in the viewfin-
der. You can now depress and release the re-
lease plate to operate the camera.
13
14
Operating Details
Exposure
As a general rule for all shutter speed settings
except B, with the 'LOT' lever in the O position
you should keep the release plate depressed
until the lens shutter has completed the expo-
sure. This is especially important at shutter
speeds from 1s to 1/15s.
If you relax the pressure on the release plate too
soon, the auxiliary shutters will terminate the
exposure prematurely (see page 20, ‘Warning
Signal’), The auxiliary shutter consists of two
blinds covering the rear opening of the body.
Time Exposure and Locking (‘LOT’)
Lever
The lever located toward the rear of the motor
housing allows you to select time exposure (T),
locking (L), or normal operation (O).
(O) — Normal operating position.
(T)— For time exposures, you should set the lens
at B and the mode selector at O, S, or RS. The
camera shutter is mechanically opened when
the 'LOT’ lever is shifted from O to T. The shutter
then remains open without any drain on the
battery. When the lever is returned to the O
setting the shutter closes, the film is advanced,
and the shutter is cocked automatically.
(L} = Inthe L-mode, release is blocked to prevent
inadvertent exposures.
Release sockets
Hasselblad 553ELX has tworelease sockets atthe
front ofthe motor housing. The sockets are parallel|
connected and can be used optionally forinserling
the release button.
Release Cords
A tripod should be used when operating the
camera at slow shutter speeds. A release cord
provides a suitable means of releasing the
camera, FK type release cords 0.3 and 6 metres
(1 and 20 feet) long can be connected to either of
the front sockets. LK and SK type release cords
between 1.5 and 5 metres (5 and 16 feet) long
must be connected to the remote control socket.
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Mode Selector Dial
The selector dial offers five release modes for the
camera.
O- NORMAL MODE. Exposure occurs when the
release plate is depressed. The film is advanced,
the shutter cocked and the mirror returned to
viewing position when the presure on the release
plate is removed.
S — PRE-RELEASE. When the dial is moved to
this position the lens shutter is closed, the dia-
phragm stops down to the pre-selected aperture,
the mirror swings up and the auxiliary shutter
opens. Only the actual operation of the shutter
remains when the release plate is pressed. Since
most of the camera operations are pre-released,
the camera's reaction time between release and
exposure is reduced to a minimum, as is camera
induced vibration. The selector dial is not re-
tained In the S-position but returns to the O-
position when released.
RS — The camera is pre-released when the mode
selector is moved to RS where it is held, and con-
tinues to pre-release after each exposure until
the mode selector is returned manually to the O
or A position.
A — Automatic. The camera makes a continuous
sequence of exposures as long as the triggering
impulse is applied, and unexposed film remains
in the camera. The sequential exposure rate in
this mode is about 1 frame/sec.
AS — The camera is pre-released in AS and
exposes sequentially as long as the exposure
button is kept depressed. At the end of the
sequence the camera remains in a pre-released
state. The exposure rate is slightly faster than in
the A position.
Remote Control Socket
At the rear of the motor housing on the right hand
side is a 5-pole DIN-socket. You can use this to
operate the camera by means of the release
cords (SK and LK), a timer or any means that
closes the circuit between pins 1 and 3 (see page
38, Circuit Diagram). The external resistance
should not exceed 6 ohms and the circuit should
remain closed at least Ú.1sec for reliable
triggering.
Double Exposure
The camera has been designed to prevent acci-
dental double exposure. Intentional double and
multiple exposures on the same frame can be
carried out as follows:
1. Depress the release plate and keep it de-
pressed. The magazine status indicator now
shifts to red.
2. Move the LOT lever to the L position and relax
the pressure on the release plate.
3. Insert the magazine slide and remove the
magazine from the camera.
4, Return the lever to the © position. The cam-
era will wind on.
5. Replace the magazine and remove the slide.
The unitis now ready to make a second exposure
on the same frame even though the magazine
indicator is red. You can make additional expo-
sures in the same manner.
The magazine status indicator remains red until
the magazine is left on the camera and wound
on.
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Battery Types
The five AA size batteries used can either be
non-rechargeable alkaline (LR-6, AM-3) or re-
chargeable nickel-cadmium (NiCd} types, but
must all be of the same type and in similar
condition. Fresh alkaline batteries will last for at
least 4000 exposures at ambient temperatures
above freezing. Rechargeable NiCd batteries
have less than half this capacity when fully
charged. Common zinc-carbon batteries can be
used but have a considerably shorter life span
and should be avoided because they may leak
and cause serious damage to the interior of the
camera. Lithium type batteries cannot be used
due to their higher voltage. Rechargeable batter-
ies can be recharged in a standard Recharge
Unit for AA size batteries.
The batteries must always be removed when the
camera is not in use for long periods.
Checking the Batteries
When you depress the battery check button the
green lights indicate the remaining battery
power. The following indications are valid for
alkaline batteries.
Two lights: More than 40% remaining power
One light; Less than 40% but more than 20%
remaining power.
No lights: Less than 20%. Change to fresh
batteries!
The battery check circuitry cuts off the lights after
1 - 1.5 sec. in order to conserve battery power,
Rechargeable batteries cannot be checked in
this way since alkaline batteries and re-
chargeable batteries have different discharge
characteristics.
78
Please note that for environmental reasons
alkaline batteries should not be disposed of
with ordinary rubbish.
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Lens and Shutter Functions
Shutter Speeds
The shutter speed ring is located closest to the
front of the lens. The desired shutter speed is set
against the lens index.
The white scale shows the shutter speeds, and
the orange scale the exposure values (EV).
The green F setting is used only when the lens is
attached to a Hasselblad focal plane shutter
camera of the 2000 series. The operation of the
diaphragm is not affected. The F setting can only
be engaged/disengagad when the green detent
button is pressed. When using the 553ELX, the
F setting will cause exposure errors since the
shutter remains open.
Aperture
The aperture ring is second closest to the front of
the lens. The aperture value is also set against
the lens index.
CF lenses have an automatic diaphragm that
stops down to the preset working aperture imme-
diately prior to exposure.
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Warning Signal
The shutter speed ring has an orange marking
opposite the 1, 1/2, and 1/4 s. Thisis to remind
you to maintain pressure on the release button
until the lens shutter has completed the
exposure (see also page 14, Exposure), With
the 553ELX you should extend this recom-
mendation to include also 1/8 and 1/15 s due
to the fast reaction of the camera's motorized
rewind operation.
Exposure Values
The aperture and shutter speed combination set
opposite the lens index determines the expo-
sure. Every combination of shutter speed/aper-
ture has an equivalent exposure value (EV). This
you can read and set against the orange EV
index on the side of the lens key.
Note: Hasselblad PME and PME-3 Meter Prism
Viewfinders give direct EV readings.
interlocked Shutter Speed/
Aperture
If you want to change the shutter speed or aper-
ture without changing the EV, you can interlock
the speed and aperture rings by holding down
the Interlock button on the right of the aperture
scale then turning the interlocked rings to the
desired aperture and speed combination that will
produce the image required. When interlocked,
the rings move together, increasing or decreas-
ing the aperture and shutter speed to maintain
the EV for correct exposures.
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Focusing and Depth of Field
The focusing ring is the ring with the knurled
rubber grip positioned closest to the camera
body. The distance scales appear on this ring.
You focus the lens by rotating the focusing ring
until a sharp image of the subject is obtained or
the measured distance between the subject and
the film plane is set opposite the lens index. The
distance in metres is shown in white numerals,
and the distance in inches/feet is in orange
numerals.
In the image, objects closer or further away than
the selected distance will appear sharp, within
certain limits. The range of sharp focus, i.e. depth
of field, varies with the aperture.
The depth of field available at any given aperture
can be read off the depth-of-field scale on both
sides of the central index. The rings on the
illustration indicate how to read the depth-of-field
scale with an aperture о! 1/11,
Infrared Photography
Infrared (IR) rays (wavelengths longer than 800
nanometers) are refracted to a focal plane some-
what behind that of the visible light images
formed on the focusing screen. To compensate
for this difference, proceed as follows:
Focus as usual on the focusing screen (see
figure A).
Read the distance opposite the central index.
Rotate the focusing ring until the distance read is
aligned with the red IR index (see figure B).
Checking Depth of Field
To allow you to see the depth of field in the image
on the focusing screen as it will appear on the
film, the diaphragm can be stopped down to the
preset aperture simply by sliding the manual
preview button downwards until it locks into the
preview position. The diaphragm will remain in
this position until it is manually opened.
To release the button, and re-open the dia-
phragm, press the lower section of the button.
Flash Synchronization
The Hasselblad 553ELX uses lenses from the
Hasselblad CF and C series. These lenses have
built-in leaf shutters with speeds from 1 to
1/5005, A flash unit connected to the PC terminal
will be activated when the shutter is fully open.
Electronic flash units can be used at all shutter
speeds, 1 - 1/500.
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Magazine Operation
Loading the Magazine
The magazine may be loaded on, or off the
camera. If it is to be loaded off the camera then
the magazine slide must be inserted, its flat side
towards the rear. This facilitates removal of the
film holder for loading. Follow the procedure
below.
1) Fold out the magazine insert key.
2) Turn the key counter-clockwise and with-
draw the film holder.
3) An empty take-up spool should be placed
under the knurled knob of the spool clamp
bar. Insert a roll of film under the other end of
the bar, ensuring that it is turned the same
way as in the illustration. Be careful to remove
all the paper tape that surrounds a new roll of
film.
Turn the magazine insert key clockwise to
open the film clamp. Pull 8 - 10em (3 - 4.in.) of
paper backing off the film roll and slide the
edge under the clamp.
Insert the tongue of the backing paper into the
slot in the take-up spool.
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arrow on the paper backing is opposite the
triangular index on the spool clamp bar, but
no further.
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Turn the magazine insert key counter-clock-
wise and insert the film holder into the maga-
zine — ensure that it is correctly positioned.
Lock the film holder into the magazine by
turning the key clockwise,
Fold out the film crank and rotate it clockwise
about ten turns until it stops. Turn the crank
counter-clockwise and fold it in.
8
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24
HAS ELEHLAD
Number 1 will now be displayed in the frame
counter window and the magazine is loaded —
ready for use.
The magazine's film winder crank is only blocked
at frame 1. À partially exposed film may be
wound off at any frame thereafter.
The frame counter is automatically reset when
the film Holder is withdrawn from the magazine.
25
26
Magazine Load status
In the centre of the film holder key is a crescent-
shaped indicator that displays white when the film
is ioaded into the magazine, and progressively
changestoredasthefilmis woundon. Acompletely
red indicator shows that either the final frame is
exposed or the magazine is empty,
Removing the Fiim
When the last frame has been exposed, the
magazine blocks the camera for further exposures.
Wind off the film by folding out the film winding
crank, and rotating it clockwise until you can feel the
film leaving the supply spool. Now you can withdraw
the film holder from the magazine and remove the
exposed film.
Changing the Magazine Status Indicator
Tochange the magazine indicator from red to white
at any other frame number than 1 you fold out the
film winding crank and turn it clockwise. The indi-
cator changes after approx. 3/4 turn, but you should
continue for about half a turn until the new frame
numberis centeredin the counter window to avoid
overlapping frames.
Film Tab Holder
The end tab of the film pack can be inserted in the
holder onthe back ofthe magazine as a reminder of
the kind of film you have loaded into the magazine.
Film Plane Index
The film plane index on the right hand side of the
magazine body indicates the position of the film
plane to facilitate accurate determination of the
film-to-subject distance, which is very important in
close-up photography
Viewfinder System
Changing the Viewfinder
The film magazine or rear cover must be de-
tached before the focusing hood or other viewtin-
der can be removed. The focusing hood should
be folded down before being removed, to prevent
it from being damaged.
Remove the hood by sliding it to the rear in its
guide slots.
Slide the replacement finder into the slots and
push it forward.
Attach a magazine or rear cover to the camera.
Changing the Magnifier
The complete magnifier plate in the focusing
hood can easily be interchanged with other
plates with correction lenses to compensate for
different eyesight. Correction lenses with powers
ranging from +3 to —4 diopters are available
mounted in plates and marked with the correc-
tion power of the lens. The change is easily
carried out by following the procedure below.
Remove the focusing hood from the camera and
open it by lifting the lid firmly at the rear edge.
Bring the magnifier to the viewing position by
moving the oval button in the direction of the
arrow.
Push the magnifier half way back down to its
folded position,
Grip the lower edge of the magnifier between
thumb and forefinger (through the underside of
the hood), and pull firmly.
The replacement lens is inserted by reversing
the above procedure.
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28
Changing the Focusing Screen
The screen is easily interchanged without the
requirement of special tools:
Detach the magazine and viewfinder.
Slide the screenlatches tothe side. Cup your hand
over the screen, and invert the camera.
The screen will now drop into your hand.
Insert the replacement screen, ensuring that the
smooth flat side of the frame is uppermost, and that
all four corners are seated on the support pins.
Itis not necessary toreturnthe screenlatches. This
is done automatically when the viewfinder is
replaced.
In the Hasselblad Product Catalog you will find
the entire range of focusing screens of different
designs tor various applications.
The 553ELX model is equipped with an Ácute-
Matte focusing screen which provides a consider-
able increase in the brightness of the focusing
image when compared with the older Hasselblad
focusing screens. On page 30 you will find instruc-
tions on how to adjust the PME and PME3 / PMES
Meter Prism Viewfinders to compensate for the light
level differences onthe different focusing screens.
PME and PME3 / PMES Meter Prism
Viewfinder Adjustments
Since the Hasselblad Meter Prism Viewfinders
measure the light level onthe focusing screen they
have been calibrated at the factory to give an
accurate reading withone particular type of screen.
If that focusing screens replaced with another type
which gives a different light level under the same
ambient conditions, the meter has to be adjustedto
compensate for the difference.
The PME and PME3/PMES meter viewfinders are
basically the same design but are differently
adjusted from the factory. The PME3/ PMES type
is adjustedto the brighter Acute-Matte screeninthe
553ELX camera while the previous PME type is
adjusted to the lower light level of the Ground-glass
screen (Cat. No. 42161) and similar, comparable
screens, such as Splitimage (42188), Microprism
and split image (42218), or Grid and microprism
(42250). The Plain glass screen (42200) is not
suitable for TTL metering.
The distinction between the two viewfinder types
is indicated by the designation PME3 or PMES
respectively on the rear of the viewfinder body
above the eyepiece. The PME has no designation.
The ways of compensating for alternative usage of
the meter viewfinders are shown in the charts on
the next page.
29
A. Acute-Matte’ focusing screen, combined with:
Cm Adjustment or action required to obtain the correct EV value
PMES/PMES No adjustment or action required.
PME Heduce the ASAVISO setting to half the film speed value as indicated
on the film package (e.g. to 50 for a 100 ASA film)
or
Increase the MAX lens aperture setting one full step (e.g. to f2 for
an f2.8 lens)
or
Reduce the EV reading one full step when setting it on the lens EV
scale (e.g. to EV11 instead of EV12).
B. Other Hasselblad focusing screens, combined with:
Viewfinder : ‘ :
model Adjustment or action required to obtain a correct EV value
PMESPMES Increase the АЗАЛЗО setting to twice the film speed value as
indicated on the film package (e.g. to 200 for a 100 ASA film)
or
Reduce the MAX lens aperture setting one full step (e.g. to f4 for
an f2.8 lens)
or
Increase the EV reading one full step when setting it on the lens EV
scale (e.g. to EV13 instead of EV12).
PME No adjustment or action required.
30
“ Acute-Matte designed by MINOLTA.
Automatic Flash Control
The camera's built-in flash sensor and electronics
meter the light reflected from the central portion of
the film surface, a circle with a diameter of 40 mm.
The metering system is connected to a film speed
selector. Withthe Hasselblad Proflash 4504 directly
connected or any other System SCA 300 or 500
dedicated flash unit connected through the Hassel
blad flash adapters SCA390 or 580 it controls the
flash unit and cuts off the flash when the exposure
Is correct.
Forconnecting the Hasselblad Proflash 4504 tothe
553ELX, please refer to the instruction manual for
the flash unit.
Under the left hand edge of the focusing screen an
indicator light shows when the flash is ready to be
operated and also confirms If the flash output was
sufficient to give a correct exposure.
The flash unit powers the camera's electronics and
also the flash adapter, when that is used.
31
Attaching the Hasselblad Flash
Adapters SCA 390 and SCA 590
For hand-held flash units, either adapter is at-
ached as shown in the illustration above:
— the 6-pole contact from the spiral cord is
connected to the camera's side socket
— the sync cord is connected from the adapter
to the PC flash terminal of the lens
— the connecting cord is attached to the hand-
held unit.
ISO(ASA) 16. 25 . 40 . 64
Setting the Film Speed
The film speed is set via the ISO selector. This is
divided into ISO{ASA) settings from 16 - 1000.
The equivalent in DIN ratings can be found using
the table below. Certain films require compensa-
tion for differences in reflection. In these in-
stances, the compensation is made by changing
the film speed selector setting. The amount of
compensation has to be determined by experi-
ment.
NOTE: The SCA 300 flash unit must always
be set to the TTL” position. The SCA 500 unit
must be set to the “M" (Manual) position.
100 . . 200. 400 . 800
DIN 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
32
Viewfinder Signal
This indicator located under the left edge of the
focusing screen displays two different signals,
both shown in a red glowing light. The indicator
is only in operation when the camera is used with
flash adapters SCA 390 or 580 and a flash unit
that conforms to the corresponding System SCA
300 or 500.
Ready Signal
A steady red light indicates that the flash unit is
charged and ready to be fired.
Correct Exposure Signal
A blinking red light that occurs for just over a
second after exposure indicates that the flash
has emitted the right amount of light for a correct
exposure. After the blinking signal, the indicator
returns to the ready signal when the flash unit is
once again fully recharged.
Incorrect Exposure Indication
After an exposure has been carried out and the
red light is unlit this indicates that the flash emit-
ted was insufficient for correct exposure. The
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aperture must then be opened or the flash dis-
tance to the subject must be reduced. Changing
to a faster film is also a possibility.
The Ready Signal will appear after a short but
variable length of time depending on the condi-
tion of the flash batteries.
Please refer to your flash unit's operating instruc-
tions for more information about other functions
when using automatic flash light metering that
conforms to System SCA flash photography with
flash sensors, or with non-automatic flash units.
33
34
Accessories
Accessory Mounts
On the bottom of the camera body a 1/4 in, thread
tripod socket is located in the centre of the quick
coupling plate. The plate and socket accept flash
gun brackets and the plate also fits and easily
locks into the Hasselblad Tripod Quick-coupling.
If you own tripods and other accessories with
3/8 in. screws we recommend you to purchase
the Tripod Quick-coupling which has both 1/4
and 3/8 in. sockets and provides an easily oper-
ated, fast and reliable tripod connection.
Should a Quick-coupling be unsuitable for your
application, your Hasselblad distributor can,
upon request provide a replacement 3/8 in.
socket together with installation instructions.
On the left hand side of the camera body in front
of the strap lug there Is an accessory rail for the
Flash Adapter and other accessories. The
lenses accept filters and lens shades on the front
bayonets.
Hasselblad Accessory Chart
The accessory chart on the opposite page indi-
cates the wide range of accessories available
within the Hasselblad System. Please refer to the
Hasselblad Product Catalogue for complete in-
formation on the entire Hasselblad Camera
System.
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35
Technical Specifications and Equipment 553ELX
Camera type:
Design:
Motorized single-lens reflex camera for 6 x 6cm (2 1/4 x 2 1/4in.) film size
(max.). Interchangeable lenses, film magazines, viewfinders, and focusing
screens.
Integrated motor. The camera body shell and the motor housing are made of
aluminium and magnesium alloys respectively and are each cast in one piece.
Viewfinders:
Folding focusing hood. The camera can accept different types of focusing
screens, prism viewfinders with or without a built-in light meter, magnifying
hood, or sports viewfinder.
Focusing screen:
Hasselblad Acute-Matte” focusing screen.
Film advance:
Automatic, motorized film advance and simultaneous shutter cocking. Expo-
sure rate of approx. 1.2 frames/s. Mode selector for single and sequence
exposures, with or without pre-release.
Battery/capacity:
Five size AA (LR6, AM-3) 1.5V alkaline (or 1.2V rechargeable NiCad) batteries.
Up to 4000 exposures with fresh alkaline batteries.
Flash control:
TTL/OTF-measurement. ISO 16 - 1000 with flash adapters SCA 390 or SCA
580 for connection with flash units from the Systems SCA 300 or SCA 500
respectively. Measuring area within @40mm in the centre of the film surface.
Tripod socket:
1/4 in. socket thread and tripod plate for quick-coupling attachment.
External Camera body only — see opposite. Camera body with 80mm Planar CF lens
dimensions: and fim magazine A12: 180Lx100Wx150mmH (71/8 x 31516 x 51516 in.).
Weight: Camera body only: 1240g (2lb 1207). The camera body with 80mm Planar CF
lens and film magazine A12: 2130g (4ib 1107).
The camera body (chrome model, product no. 10067 or black model, product
no. 10221), comes with focusing hood, Acute-Matte" focusing screen, fuses,
carrying strap, front and rear protective covers, release plate, and FK 30
release cord.
For comprehensive information on accessories please refer to the Hasselblad Product Catalogue.
Hasselblad reserve the right to make changes in the published specifications without prior notice.
36
" Acute-Matte designed by MINOLTA.
Camera Body Dimensions
203
mm
Bin
=
119 mm
4 1/16 In
37
Troubleshooting
Your camera is built to give long and trouble-free service. If however you encounter any operating
difficulties because you are not familiar with the Hasselblad camera system, the following table may
PROBLEM
POSSIBLE CAUSE
REMEDY
You cannot remove or attach
the lens.
The camera is in pre-
released position.
Set the mode selector in the O
position and release the
help to resolve them.
FROBLEM
POSSIBLE CAUSE
REMEDY
The camera does not op-
erate when the release plate
is depressed.
There is no image on the
focusing screen.
The batteries are exhausted.
The batteries are incorrectly
fitted.
The magazine slide is still
in place.
The roll of film is finished,
The LOT lever is in the L
position.
The fuse has blown.
The lens cover is on.
The camera is in pre-
released position.
The LOT lever is in the T
position.
Load fresh batteries.
Refit the batteries correctly.
Note: Use the battery check
to find out if the batteries are
causing the problem.
Remove the slide.
Load a new roll of film.
Set the lever in the O position.
Replace the fuse.
Remove the cover.
Set the mode selector in the O
position and release the
camera.
Set the lever in the O position.
camera.
The LOT lever is in the T
position.
Set the lever in the O position.
The shutter is released. Cock the shutter (see page В).
You cannot remove the The magazine slide is not Insert the magazine slide
38
magazine. fully inserted. completely.
Circuit Diagram
Voltage: 6-7.5V Socket: Preh 8-6404
Batteries: Five size AA (LR6, AM-3) Exposure current (pins 1 and 3):
Fuse: 1.6A medium slow-blow (5x20 mm) 0.2A.
Connecior as seen
from outside
camera
Battery
У check
circuit
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39
Camera Care, Service and Guarantee
Camera Care
Your Hasselblad camera is designed to with-
stand the rigours of professional use in most
environments. In order to avoid the possibility of
damage however, the camera should be pro-
tected from the following.
Extremes of temperature. High temperatures
can have an adverse effect on both the film and
the camera. For this reason you should not keep
your camera in places where it will get hot, such
as in direct sunlight or on a shelf above a radiator.
In tropical environments fungus growth can be
prevented by ensuring your equipment is kept in
an area where the air is circulating. Frequent
rapid and severe temperature changes can
cause problems such as the corrosion of electri-
cal contacts, and should therefore be avoided.
When working in extremely cold temperatures,
cameras and especially lenses should be pro-
tected as much as possible.
Dust and grit. You should take care to prevent
dirt of any kind from getting into your camera.
When taking photographs in coastal areas for
example, the camera should be protected from
sand and salt water spray.
You can blow away any dust on the lens glass,
magnifier or focusing screen, or wipe it off gently
with a soft cloth if necessary. Smears on the lens
glass should be removed with a high quality lens
cleaning solution on a soft, clean tissue. Be care-
fulnot to scratch the lens or touch any of the glass
surfaces with your fingers. The surface of the
mirror is coated and can be blown clean but
40
should not be wiped. Lens cleaning solvents or
other chemicals should not be used on the focus-
ing screen,
Impact. Your camera can be damaged by se-
vere physical shocks. While you will obviously try
not to drop it, you should also take care not to
leave it where it can fall or be knocked to the
ground, or roll about, as on the back seat of acar
for example.
Service
Faultless camera performance is essential to the
professional photographer. № 15 therefore advis-
able to check that your camera is functioning
correctly before an important assignment. You
should also return your camera to a Hasselblad
service centre for occasional checking and pre-
ventive maintenance. If your camera is used
constantly and intensively, exposing for example
hundreds of rolls of film per week, check-ups
every six months are recommended. Hasselblad
service centres have the expert staff and special
ized equipment necessary to ensure that your
camera remains in perfect working order.
Guarantee
Provided that you bought your camera from an
authorised Hasselblad outlet, it is covered by an
international guarantee for one year. The guar-
antee document and a registration card are
supplied with the camera. Keep the guarantee
document carefully, but fill in the registration card
and return it to your Hasselblad distributor.
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