Minolta X-7A Instruction Manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
E
Your Minolta X-7A is an easy-to-use microcomputerized single-lens-reflex (SLR) camera with
quartz control of mechanical sequences and shutter speed, providing lasting accuracy and years of
enjoyment.
In its aperture-priority auto-exposure (AE) mode (“AUTO” on the camera), the X-7A auto-
matically sets the precise shutter speed for correct exposure according to the in-camera meter at
the aperture you selected. An AE lock can be used to hold a meter reading and then readjust the
framing before releasing the shutter. Auto control is maintained even when using mirror lenses and
close-up accessories such as bellows—not possible with shutter-priority AE systems.
Creative flexibility exists in the X-7A's match-LED/full-metered manual mode: For correct
exposure at the metered value, simply adjust aperture and/or shutter speed to align blinking and
glowing LEDs in the viewfinder. Or you can merely refer to these LEDs—or totally disregard
them—when making your own settings. |
Flash photography is also simple: just attach a Minolta X-series Auto Electroflash, adjust
aperture, and shoot. Flash-ready signal is given in the viewfinder, and the shutter is automatically
set for proper sync at 1/60 sec.
The X-7A can be used with Minolta's wide range of accessories, such as wideangle, telephoto,
and zoom lenses, Motor Drive 1, Auto Winder G, Wireless Controller IR-1, and much more.
Before using lenses, flashes, or other accessories made by companies other than Minolta,
attach them to the camera and make sure they function properly by taking test photographs.
NAMES OF PARTS
STRAP AND CASE
SUMMARY OF OPERATION (auto mode).. .
PREPARING TO TAKE PICTURES
ATTACHING AND REMOVING LENS
BATTERIES AND POWER
Battery check
Cold-weather operation
FILM AND FILM SPEED
LOADING FILM
Safe Load Signal/Frame counter
VIEWFINDER
PRESHOOTING CHECK
TAKING PICTURES IN AUTO MODE ....
CAMERA SETTINGS
FOCUSING
HOLDING CAMERA AND RELEASING
SHUTTER
Mounting camera on tripod
Self-timer
Eyepiece cap
REWINDING AND UNLOADING FILM
ee ee
A mlm ml nm
CREATIVE CONTROL............... 24
AEROCK........................ 24
MANUAL EXPOSURE MODE ........... 26
Long exposure at “B” setting ........... 27
DEPTH OF FIELD .................. 28
SHUTTER SPEED................... 29
OTHER FOCUSING METHODS .......... 30
Distance scale .................... 30
Infrared index ................,,... 30
Film-plane index ......,.........,... 30
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY .............. 31
ACCESSORIES. .................... 32
TECHNICAL DETAILS............... 34
CARE AND STORAGE............... 36
NAMES OF PARTS
Mounting index Minimum-aperture lock (Disengage for use on X-7A)
Focusing grip
Distance scale
Depth-of-field scale
Aperture ring
Main switch Safe Load Signal
| Monitors correct film advance
Back-cover release knob —. |
Rewind crank... À Е E O L 7 > aa, ae
F ilm-speed ring
Film-speed window — > = En come "| | Operating button
Mode/shutter-speed window |
| AUTO: automaticmode | | .
Hot shoe | 1 — 1000: shutter speeds | — Finger rest
B: “bulb” (long) exposure —— Film-advance lever
Film-speed ring release —— —— Frame counter.
AE lock/self-timer switch
* AE lock for holding close-up or
adjusted-viewing meter readings
- Self-timer with triple-rate |
blinking LED E paume — — Lens-mounting index
Mode/shu tter-speed —
selector
Lens-release button
Self-timer LED ——— -Shutter-release socket
Front grip ee 4
Bayonet lens mount | Diaphragm-control lever
4
Film-cartridge chamber ae Take-up spool
Shutter curtain
— Pressure plate
Sprocket
Eyepiece
| Back cover
Eyepiece frame
- ISO (DIN* ASA) table
Memo holder
. Rewind release
Winder contact ————
- Winder/motor-drive guide socket
Battery-chamber cover -
Motor-drive guide socket —— +7" - Winder/motor-drive coupler
Tripod socket
STRAP AND CASE
Attach the strap (provided) and case (optional) as shown. The strap includes a battery holder used for storing
fresh spare batteries.
Battery holder
Eyepiece cap
SUMMARY OF OPERATION (Automatic mode)
1. Slide main switch to “ON” 2. Check battery power | 3. Set film speed (p. 12).
(p. 10). | (р. 11).
4, Open back cover (p. 13). 5. Load film properly and 6. Advance film to frame ‘1
close cover (p. 14). and check Safe Load Signal
(p. 15).
7. Set mode/shutter-speed se-
lector to “AUTO” (p. 18).
10. Release shutter (p. 21), 11. Slide main switch to “OFF”. 12.Rewind and remove film
(p. 23).
PREPARING TO TAKE PICTURES
ATTACHING AND REMOVING LENS
Body and lens caps
Remove body and lens caps as
shown.
To attach
Align the red mounting index on
the lens barrel with the red index
on the camera’s lens mount. Insert
the lens bayonet into the mount,
then turn the lens clockwise until it
locks into place with a click.
To remove
While pressing the lens-release but-
ton, turn the lens counterclockwise
as far as it will go, then lift it out of
the mount.
e Never set a lens with lts rear end down unless a rear lens cap is on,
or its control pins may be damaged.
e Be careful not to touch anything inside the camera, especially the
mirror, when attaching or removing lenses.
BATTERIES AND POWER
Batteries
Use one of the following types of
batteries:
e Two 1.55v silver-oxide (SR-44:
Eveready S-76, EPX-76, or equiv.)
e Two 1.5v alkaline-manganese
(LR44: Eveready A-76 or equiv.)
e One 3v lithium (CR-1/3N)
1. Using a coin or similar object,
unscrew the battery-chamber cover
counterclockwise and remove it.
alkaline-
manganese
lithium
silver-oxide
2. Wipe the terminals with a clean,
dry cloth. Hold the batteries by
their edges and insert them plus (+)
side up into the sleeve on the
inside of the cover.
e Do not use 1.35v mercury batteries (MR44: Eveready EPX-675 or
equiv.), which are the same shape and size, because their voltage is
too low.
@ To avoid battery leakage or bursting, do not mix batteries of
different types, brands, or ages.
® Keep batteries away from young children.
10
3. Replace the cover and screw it
in clockwise as far as it will go.
Main switch
To operate the camera, slide the
main switch to “ON”.
When you have finished taking
pictures, move the main switch to
“OFF” to prevent accidental expo-
sures and battery drain. (If the
switch is left on, however, battery
drain occurs only when the operat-
ing button is touched, so you may
want to leave it on to avoid missing
unexpected shots.)
Operating button
Touching the operation button
(with the main switch on) activates
the camera’s meter, viewfinder LED
display, and exposure-control sys-
tem. If proper contact is not
possible (e.g., when wearing gloves},
press the operating button slightly.
The shutter is released when the
button is pressed all the way down.
The viewfinder LED display will
remain on for 15 sec. after you
remove your finger.
prepare
replace
spares
Battery check
The camera automatically checks
battery power when the operating
button is touched or pressed.
e When batteries are nearly ex-
hausted, the mode LED (‘A
or ''M’’) in the viewfinder blinks to
warn that fresh batteries will soon
be needed.
e When batteries are completely
exhausted (or not correctly in-
stalled), no LEDs light and the
shutter locks.
Cold-weather operation
Since batteries tend to lose power
as temperature drops, always use
fresh batteries when photographing
in cold weather and keep a spare set
with you, preferably in a warm
pocket close to your body. Battery
capacity will be restored when
temperature returns to normal.
For prolonged cold-weather use at
approx. O°C (32°F) or lower, it is
recommended to use silver-oxide
batteries; if a lithium battery is
used below approx. 0°C (32°F), the
camera may not operate.
FILM AND FILM SPEED
The camera uses standard 35mm
cartridge film. Each film has an ISO
film-speed number {incorporating
ASA and DIN numbers) which
indicates the film's sensitivity to
light. The first part of the ISO
number (equivalent to ASA number)
is marked on the camera's film-
speed ring.
For proper exposure, the cam-
era's film-speed ring must be set to
the correct film speed.
While pressing the film-speed
ring release, turn the film-speed ring
until the desired number lines up
with the index and locks in place
when you remove your finger from
the release.
Memo holder
An ISO
(DIN/ASA)
located on the camera back. It is
surrounded by a handy memo
holder where you can insert the
film box end as a reminder of the
film type in use.
table 1$
Intermediate settings and DIN equivalents
275 26 28 29 31 32 34 35
LOADING FILM
Before opening the camera back, 1. Unfold the rewind crank and 2. Leaving the knob pulled out,
make sure there is no film inside pull up on it to lift the back-cover position a 35mm film cartridge in
the camera by checking the Safe release knob. Pull up on the knob the chamber with its projecting
Load Signal (p. 15). until the camera back springs open. spool down. Then push the back-
cover release knob all the way in,
rotating it slightly if necessary.
® Always handie and load film in subdued light—at least shaded
from direct light by your body.
NOTE
e When loading film in a dark place | als
or with the lens cap on, loading e Do not touch any parts or areas | ° “eT
will be easier if the mode selector is inside the camera shown in blue. EA.
not set at “AUTO”, — =
13
14
3. Pull out just enough film leader
to reach the take-up spool. Insert
the end of the film into a slot on
the left side of the take-up spool,
making sure that a hole in the film
is lined-up with the tooth on the
take-up spool. The sprocket teeth
should be engaged with holes at the
bottom of the film.
4. With the film held against the
sprocket by your left hand, slowly
operate the film-advance lever until
the film is wound firmly around the
take-up spool, the sprocket teeth
are engaged with holes on both
edges of the film, and the slack in
the film is taken up. If the film-
advance lever stops at the end of a
full stroke during this procedure,
release the shutter and continue
(main switch must be on).
5. After making sure that the film
is taut, close the camera back by
pressing it until it locks shut with a
click. A red “S’’ should now appear
opposite the index in the frame
counter.
6. Advance the film and release the
shutter until the index points to
23”, A red bar should appear at the
far left in the Safe Load Signal
indicating that film is loaded and
advancing properly. If it does not
appear or swings far to the right,
repeat steps 3 to 6.
The camera is now ready for taking
the first picture, provided film
speed is set.
Film-advance lever
The lever has 30° of unengaged
movement to allow swinging it out
from the camera body so the right
thumb will fit comfortably behind
it. As the lever is moved an addi-
tional 130° until it stops, the film
and frame counter advance and the
shutter is cocked for the next
exposure.
Safe Load Signal/Frame counter
As you take pictures and advance
the film, the red bar in the Safe
Load Signal gradually moves to the
right and the rewind crank rotates
counterclockwise, indicating proper
film advance, |
Never force the film-advance
lever when it stops and resists
further movement at the end of the
film, which may be somewhat
before or after the common film
lengths (12, 20, 24, 36 exposures)
shown in red in the frame counter.
The frame counter stops advancing
after 36 exposures.
15
16
VIEWFINDER
©
Mode indicators
M: Manual mode
A: Auto mode
(Y Over-range LED
Blinks at 4Hz (4 times per second)
Shutter-speed scale/LEDs
Glowing LED(s) indicate: (1) in ““A‘ (auto)
mode, shutter speed set by camera (if two
LEDs glow, camera sets stepless speed
between the two), and (2) in “M” (manual)
mode, the metered speed
Blinking LED (at 4Hz) indicates user-set
shutter speed in manual mode
"60" LED blinks at 2Hz as flash-ready
signal with X-series Minolta Auto Electro-
flashes
1 — 4 sec./under-range LED
Glows if metered speed is between 1 and 4
sec.
Blinks (at 4Hz) if outside range
B-setting indicator
Focusing screen
Split-image spot, microprism band, and
Acute Matte field
PRESHOOTING CHECK
Check the following items to
make sure your camera is ready for
picture-taking:
Self-timer off?
Minimum-aperture lock released?
(on new-type MD lens only)
Main switch at “ON”? — Film inside?
Film speed set?’ ——
Batteries OK?
(Does mode LED glow—not blink—when
operating button is touched or pressed?)
Mode/shutter speed set?
17
18
TAKING PICTURES IN
CAMERA SETTINGS
Set mode/shutter-speed ‘selector
to “AUTO”.
Set lens at desired aperture. |
AUTO MODE
In aperture-priority auto mode, :
all you need to do is set the desired
aperture—the camera will automati-
cally select the shutter speed
needed for proper exposure.
Viewfinder display
Before releasing the shutter, com-
pose your picture, focus, and check
the viewfinder for the following:
- Is the under-range LED blinking?
If so, turn the aperture ring
toward the largest aperture (i.e.,
f/2, f/1.7, or f/1.4, etc.) until the
LED stops blinking, or increase the
light level if possible.
Is the over-range LED blinking? If
so, turn the aperture ring toward
the smallest aperture (i.e., 1/16 or
£/22) until the LED stops blinking.
If it does not stop, use a neutral-
density (ND) filter, or reduce the
light level if possible.
ls an LED on indicating 1/30 sec.
or slower shutter speed? Using
slow shutter speeds may result in
blurred pictures due to camera
movement. To correct, turn the
aperture ring toward the largest
aperture (i.e., f/1.7, f/1.4, etc.,)
until the 1/60 sec. LED lights.
If not possible, use a tripod
(p. 22) or flash fp. 31).
NOTE
@ In some situations you should use
the AE lock (p. 24)
elf your head is not shielding the
eyepiece from light when the
picture is taken (as when using
self-timer or a cable release), attach
the eyepiece cap (p. 22)
Selecting aperture
In auto mode, your camera will automatically set the
precise shutter speed for proper exposure at the set
aperture. Even so, you have considerable control over
results and can adjust aperture and shutter speed over
sizable ranges.
For good pictures where no particular effect is desired,
simply set the aperture as indicated in the table. These
settings will provide as much depth of field as possible
while producing a shutter speed fast enough to stop the
motion of most subjects.
There may be times, however, when you want to
obtain a particular effect, such as rendering a certain
range in sharp focus, emphasizing a subject against an
out-of-focus background, or selecting a specific shutter -
speed. In these cases, you must select the appropriate
aperture to give the desired depth of field (see p. 28) or
the desired shutter speed (p. 29).
Guidelines for typical picture-taking situations
Heavy
ISO Sunny any Over- Indoors
cast
tA
att po
25/15° f/8 f/4 f/2 f/1.4
64/19° f/8 f/4 f/2.8 f/1.4
100/21° f/11 f/5.6 f/4 f/1.4
160/23° f/11 f/8 f/5.6 f/2
200/24° f/11 f/8 f/5.6 f/2
400/27° 1/16 f/11 f/8 f/2.8
1000/31° f/22 f/16 f/11 f/4
20
FOCUSING
In focus
Out of focus
The camera’s focusing screen has
a focusing aid consisting of a
split-image spot surrounded by a
band of microprisms in the center
of an Acute Matte field.
To focus the camera visually, look
through the viewfinder and turn the
lens’ focusing grip until:
- Upper and lower subject images in
the spot are exactly aligned with
no broken lines between them.
* Subject ‘image in the band does
not shimmer or appear broken up.
At this point, the subject image
within the viewfinder's center
focusing aid appears clearest and
seems to blend with that on the
matte field surrounding it.
You will probably find that
focusing is easiest if: |
- Split-image spot is used for
subjects having vertical lines.
+ Microprism band is used for lenses
from medium wideangle through
medium telephoto, especially
with subjects not having vertical
lines.
« Matte field is used for longer
focal-length lenses or for macro or
other work involving considerable
lens extension.
HOLDING CAMERA AND RELEASING SHUTTER
Holding the camera as shown Jets you operate most controls while viewing through the camera’s eyepiece.
LEFT HAND
Thumb: focusing grip, aperture
ring
Index: focusing grip
Middle: aperture ring
RIGHT HAND
Thumb: film-advance lever
Index: mode/shutter-speed
selector or operating
button
Middle: AE lock
To obtain sharp, blur-free photos,
hold the camera as still as possible
and press the operating button
gently to release the shutter. The
camera should be steadied against
your face or body. Always press the
button with a slow, steady squeeze
to release the shutter—never a quick
jab.
Some ways of holding the camera
are shown here. If you grasp the
camera firmly with your right hand
on its front grip, you can shift it
back and forth for horizontal (a)
and vertical (b) pictures without
removing your hand from its
controls. By cradling the camera in
your left hand, you can easily focus
and set the aperture, then shoot.
Photo {c} shows an alternative for
holding the camera vertically.
21
22
Mounting camera on tripod
For maximum sharpness when
making exposures too long to per-
mit handholding of the camera
(1/30 sec. or slower), mount the
camera on a tripod using the socket
on the camera bottom.
Screw the Remote Cord into the
shutter release socket and release
the shutter.
Self-timer
e Do not use excessive force when
attaching the camera to a tripod.
e The mounting screw should be
5.4mm (1/4 in.) or shorter.
The camera's electronic self-timer
can be used to delay shutter release
for 10 sec. .
1. Mount the camera on a sturdy
support (such as a tripod), compose
your picture, and focus.
2. Set the mode/shutter-speed se-
lector at any setting other than
“B" and make sure that the film is
advanced.
3. Pull the self-timer switch up.
4. To start the timer, press the
operating button.
A visual signal will indicate how
much time is left before the self-
timer releases the shutter.
Self-timer LED blinks as follows:
First 8 sec.: twice per sec.
Next sec.: eight times per sec.
Last sec.: continuously
NOTE
e You may cancel the self-timer
after it has been started by pushing
the self-timer switch down or by
sliding the main switch to “OFF”.
e After taking the picture, switch
off the self-timer, or the next pic-
ture will be taken after a 10-sec.
delay.
Eyepiece cap
When using the camera in auto
mode or at *'B” and your head does
not shield the eyepiece from light
(self-timer operation or Remote
Cable release), slide the eyepiece
cap onto the eyepiece frame. This
prevents unwanted light from affect-
ing exposure.
To keep it handy, the eyepiece
cap threads onto the camera strap.
1. Press the rewind release on the
camera bottom.
REWINDING AND UNLOADING FILM
2. | Unfold the
rewind crank and
turn it in the direction of the arrow
until the red bar in the Safe Load
Signal moves out of the window to
the left. Near the end, you will feel
tension of the film increase then
completely disappear, and the
crank will then turn freely.
3. When you are certain that the
exposed film is completely rewound
into the cartridge, pull up on the
back-cover release knob to open the
back, then remove the film car-
tridge.
e Never open the camera back when there is any red still visible
in the Safe Load Signal.
23
24
CREATIVE CONTROL
AE LOCK
When to use
Your X-7A's center-weighted av-
eraging meter system is designed
so that light from all parts of the
viewfinder is measured, but influ-
ence from a large central area is
greatest. Thus,
subject fills most of the frame’s
center, the meter reading should
give satisfactory exposure. However,
when there is a great brightness
difference between the subject and
background where the main subject
does not fill the center of the
frame, the AE lock should be used
(with camera in auto mode).
Use the AE lock in situations
where subjects appear dark against
strong backlighting, such as win-
dows, or against a light background
of snow or sand: or where subjects
appear very light against a dark
background, as when standing in a
spotlight or shaft of suntight.
when the main’
Fa
How to use
To obtain proper exposure in
high-contrast lighting situations
where your subject is on the edge
of the frame or occupies only a
small portion in the center, use the
AE lock as follows:
1. Shift the camera's position so
the subject fills most of the frame.
For smail subjects, you may need
to move closer (or zoom closer).
2. Press the AE lock all the way
down and hold it.
3. While still holding the AE lock
down, recompose your picture as
desired and press the operating
button all the way down to release
the shutter.
NOTE
e The AE lock cannot be used in
manual mode or with the self-timer.
elf you wish to change the aper-
ture, do so before pressing the AE
lock,
e For precise exposure control
when using the AE lock with a
variable-effective-aperture zoom
lens {such as Minolta 35—105mm
f/3.5-4.5 MD Zoom), slightly
adjust the aperture after engaging
the AE lock to compensate for the
change when zooming (or do not
zoom after engaging the lock). For
exact compensation value, please
refer to the zoom lens’ owner's
manual.
e When using an R60 (red) filter,
adjust exposure +1 stop.
25
MANUAL EXPOSURE MODE
Basic setting Viewfinder shows: Taking a picture
6 E In the camera’s match-LED manu-
Manual mode in use al mode, the manually set shutter
speed is indicated in the viewfinder
by an LED blinking at 4Hz (4 times
per sec.), and the metered speed
(for the aperture and film speed
set) is indicated by a glowing LED.
Metered speed To obtain normal exposure as
(glowing LED) metered by your camera, simply
adjust the aperture and/or shutter
speed until the blinking and glow-
ing LEDs match up.
Manually set speed
(LED blinking at 4Hz)
Set mode/shutter-speed selector
at desired click-stop from “1” (1
sec.) to ‘’1000"' (1/1000 sec.).
Darken picture Lighten picture
NORMAL
(at EV13)
There are two ways to do this:
* First set the shutter speed selector
at the desired click-stop, then
turn the aperture ring until no
LEDs light up other than the LED
blinking next to the selected
speed.
First set the aperture as desired,
then turn the shutter-speed selec-
tor so that the blinking LED
matches up with the glowing
LED. !f two LEDs are glowing,
adjust the aperture ring slightly so
only one glows. Do not set the
shutter speed between click-stops.
Long exposure at ““B” setting
When the mode/shutter-speed se-
lector is set at ‘’B’’, the shutter will
open when you press the operating
button and remain open unti! you
release the button. This makes
exposure longer than one second
‘possible. A tripod or other camera
support should generally be used.
To avoid shaking the camera when
pressing the operating button or
releasing the shutter, use a standard
cable release (preferably a lockable
type for longer exposures) or a
Minolta Remote Cord. The eye-
piece cap (p. 22) should be used to
prevent stray light from affecting
the exposure.
NOTE
e The self-timer does not operate at
the “B” setting.
e With fresh batteries at moderate
temperatures, the maximum long
exposure is approx. 10 hours, At
lower temperatures, exposure time
may be shorter.
27
28
DEPTH OF FIELD
When a lens is focused on a given
subject, there is a certain range
behind and in front of the subject
which appears sharp. This range is
called “depth of field”, and it varies
according to the aperture set: large
apertures le.g., f/1.7) yield a
shallow depth of field rendering the
background out of focus (example
A): small apertures (e.g., 1/22) give
greater depth of field with sharper
background (example B}. The depth
of field can be checked on the lens’
depth-of-field scale as shown.
Depth of field also varies with
subject distance: when the lens is
focused on a close subject, the
depth of field is shallow; when
focused on a distant subject, the
depth of field is greater.
SHUTTER SPEED
Sometimes the subject or the
effect that you want makes the
shutter soeed more important. To
set a desired shutter speed when
using auto mode, turn the lens’
aperture ring until the LED next to
the desired shutter speed lights.
Fast shutter speeds such as 1/500
or 1/1000 sec. can “freeze” action
(example A). Slow shutter speeds
such as 1/2 or 1 sec. can be used to
emphasize subject flow or motion
(example B).
29
30
OTHER FOCUSING METHODS
Distance scale
You may find that
in certain
situations it is easier to focus by
estimating the distance to your
subject, then aligning the corre-
sponding figure on the distance
scale with the index, such as:
« When taking fong exposures or
flash pictures when it is too dark
to focus through the lens
« |f you want to prefocus on your
subject, as in quickly shot candid
photos
infrared index
For proper
infrared film, first focus your
subject as usual with visible light.
Attach a red filter and turn the
focusing ring to the right to align
the point of proper focus on the
distance scale with the small red
dot (or red “R” on MC and old-
type MD lenses) on the depth-of-
field scale. Set exposure according
to the film manufacturer's recom-
mendations.
focus when using
Film-plane index
The symbol beneath the film-
advance lever indicates the position
of the film inside the camera. This
mark can be used for measuring the
distance from subject to film when
taking close-ups, photomacrographs,
and photomicrographs, where the
exact distance is sometimes impor-
tant.
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY
Connecting flash units
Cordless clip-on flash units, such as the Minolta Auto
Electroflash 200X and 118X are attached and electrically
connected by simply sliding them into the camera's hot
shoe.
Synchronization
When a Minolta X-series Auto Electroflash is used on
the camera with its mode/shutter-speed selector at any
position other than “B”, the *'60” LED in the viewfinder
will blink as a flash-ready signal when the flash is turned
on and fully charged, and the shutter will be automati-
cally switched over to 1/60 sec. when the shutter is
released.
If you use an electronic flash other than a Minolta X-
series Auto Electroflash, the mode/shutter-speed selector
must be set at 60" to assure complete exposure of the
film frame. Slower speeds can also be used under certain
conditions if desired for particular effects. Do not use
speeds faster than 1/60 sec. (i.e., 1/125 and upward).
NOTE
e For more detailed instructions, please refer to the
flash units owner’s manual.
32
ACCESSORIES
MOTOR DRIVE 1 and AUTO WINDER G
With Motor Drive 1 attached, you can capture the action with single-frame
or continuous operation at either 2 or 3.5 frames per second. The comfortable
handgrip has two operating buttons, each with a Minolta “‘touch switch”,
enabling full viewfinder readout for either horizontal or vertical framing.
Auto Winder G lets you focus full attention on the creative aspects of
photography by freeing you from winding the film after each picture.
Continuous sequences up to 2 frames per second are also possible by holding
down the camera’s operating button.
Both units are designed to attach quickly and easily to your X-7A without
access caps to remove or store. Their film-advance mechanisms stop auto-
matically at the end of the roll, and film can be easily loaded and unloaded
without removing the units.
AUTO ELECTROFLASHES
Taking flash pictures is as simple and easy as taking normal shots with your
camera when you use Minolta X-series Auto Electroflashes, such as the 118X
and 200X. These automatic electronic flash units are designed for your camera,
featuring dedicated-flash functions that electronically set the camera for proper
X-sync, and activate a blinking flash-ready signal in the viewfinder when the
flash is charged and ready to fire.
Other features are multiple auto-aperture settings, manual mode, and Ni-Cd
battery power supply.
WIRELESS CONTROLLER IR-1 SET
The IR-1 infrared transmitter/receiver set lets you trigger your camera from
up to 60m (about 200 ft.) away for remote-controlled single-frame exposures,
continuous sequences, or long exposures. When used with extra receivers, the
three-channel transmitter enables independent operation of up to three cameras
ог groups of cameras, or simultaneous operation of an unlimited number of
cameras.
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TECHNICAL DETAILS
Type: Quartz/electronically governed 35mm single-lens
reflex auto-exposure (AE) camera
Exposure-control modes: Aperture-priority automatic
("AUTO") and match-LED/full-metered manual ('*M””)
Lens mount: Minolta SLR bayonet (54° rotating angle);
coupling for full-aperture metering and automatic
diaphragm control with Minolta MD and MC lenses
Exposure control and functions: Low-voitage, low-
current computer circuit varies shutter speed steplessly
according to aperture set in AUTO mode, to yield
proper exposure for film speed set: auto-exposure
range: EV 1 to EV 18 (e.g., 1 sec. at f/1.4 to 1/1000
sec. at f/16) at ISO 100/21% with f/1.4 lens: AE lock
enabling holding meter reading for exposure at that
value
Shutter: Quartz-controlled horizontal-traverse focal-
plane type; stepless speeds 1/1000 to 4 sec. set automat-
ically with selector dial at “AUTO” setting or fixed
speeds 1 to 1/1000 sec. or ''B’ (bulb) set manually at
detented indications; electromagnetic shutter release
locks when voltage too low for proper operation
Metering: TTL center-weighted averaging type, by
silicon photocell mounted at rear of pentaprism
Film-speed range: ISO 12/12° to 3200/36° set by
film-speed dial that locks at 1/3-EV increments
Mirror: Triple-coated oversize instant-return slide-up
type
Viewfinder: Eye-level fixed pentaprism type showing
95% of 24 x 36mm film-frame area; magnification: 0.9X
with 50mm standard lens focused at infinity: power:
-1D, adjustable with accessory snap-on eyepiece lenses;
Acute Matte focusing screen with central horizontally
oriented split-image focusing spot surrounded by micro-
prism band; visible around frame: mode indication (‘‘A’'
or “'М”), shutter speed scale with LED setting indication
for metered speed and manually set speed, 1-4 sec. auto-
speed indication, over-/under-range LED indicators, **B”
setting indication, flash-ready signal, automatic battery
check; display and metering activated by normai finger
contact, or slight pressing of operating button or by
engaging AE lock, continue for 15 sec. after finger
removed
Flash syne and control: Hot shoe for X sync; camera-
control contact on hot shoe for automatic setting of
shutter at 1/60 sec. (except when mode/shutter-speed
selector at ‘‘B’’) and flash-ready signaling with X- and
PX-series Auto Electroflashes; other electronic flashes
synchronize at 1/60 sec. and slower manual speeds or.
**B* setting; Class MF, M, and FP flashbulbs, at 1/15 sec.
or slower setting
Film advance: Manaul: by lever with single 130° stroke
after 30° unengaged movement; motorized with acces-
sory Motor Drive 1 or Auto Winder G; release button
for rewind on camera bottom; advancing-type frame
counter; Safe Load Signal indicating film loading and
advancing condition
Power: Two 1.5v alkaline-manganese (LR44: Eveready
A-76 or equiv.), two 1.55v silver-oxide (SR44: Eveready
S-76, EPX-76 or equiv.), or one 3v lithium (CR-1/3N)
cells) power both auto exposure control and manual
operation; main switch with indication for off or an;
mode LED blinks when cells approach exhaustion; no
LEDs light and shutter will not release when voltage is
too low for proper operation
Self-timer: Electronic for 10-sec. delay, with operation
indicated by camera-front LED that blinks at 2Hz for 8
sec., then 8Hz for 1 sec., then remains on until shutter
releases, cancelable anytime before release
Other: integral front handgrip; back with memo holder,
and ISO (DIN: ASA) table; positive 4-slot take-up spool;
remote shutter-release socket
Size and weight: 137 x 90 x 51.5mm (5-3/8 x 3-9/16 x
2 in.), 470g (16-9/16 oz.) without lens and power cell (s)
Standard accessories: Carrying strap with slide-on bat-
tery holder and eyepiece cap
Optional accessories: Minolta Auto Electroflashes; Motor
Drive 1, Auto Winder G; Wireless Controller IR-1 Set;
MD, MC, and other Minolta interchangeable lenses and
applicable Minolta SLR system accessories
Specifications subject to change without notice
35
36
e Always keep your camera in its case with the lens
capped when not in use, or with a body cap on whena
lens is not attached.
e No part of the camera should be forced at any time.
e Never subject your camera to shock, high heat, high
humidity, water, or harmful chemicals. Be particularly
careful not to leave it in the glove compartment or other
places in motor vehiches where it may be subjected to
high temperatures.
e Never lubricate any part of the camera body or lens.
e Never touch the shutter curtains or the front inside
part of the body or blow against them, as doing so
might damage the alignment and movement of either
the curtains or mirror.
e External camera and lens barrel—but not glass—
surfaces should be wiped with a clean, dry, or silicone-
treated cloth now and then, especially after using near
salt water.
e lt is advisable to operate the film-advance lever and
release the shutter once or twice from time to time
during extended storage.
e Never touch lens or eyepiece surfaces. Remove loose
matter with a blower brush. If necessary, clean with a
soft, clean cloth or special photographic lens tissue
which may be moistened with not more than one
drop of a quick-evaporating fluid cleaner specially
compounded for photographic lenses. Never drop fluid
directly on the glass surface.
@ It is recommended to have your camera cleaned once
per year at an authorized Minolta service facility.
e |f the camera is to be stored for a long period of time,
remove the batteries and keep in a cool, dry place away
from dust or chemicals, preferably in an airtight con-
tainer with a drying agent such as silica gel.
If you have questions concerning the operation of your camera, feel free to contact your local Minolta agent or
distributor by writing one of the offices listed below.
To assure prompt service, please contact your Authorized Independent Service Center before sending your
camera for repairs.
Minolta Camera Co., Ltd.
Minolta GmbH
Minolta France S.A.
Minolta (UK) Limited
Minolta Austria Gesellschaft m.b.H.
Minolta Camera Benelux B.V.
Belgium Branch
Minolta (Schweiz) AG
Minolta Svenska AB
Minolta Corporation
Head Office
Los Angeles Branch
Chicago Branch
Atlanta Branch
Minolta Canada Inc.
Head Office
Montreal Branch
Vancouver Branch
Minolta Hong Kong Limited
- Minolta Singapore (Pte) Ltd.
3-13, 2-Chome, Azuchi-Machi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka 541, Japan
Kurt-Fischer-Strasse 50, D-2070 Ahrensburg, Germany
357 bis, rue d’Estienne d’Orves, 92700 Colombes, France
1-3 Tanners Drive, Blakelands North, Milton Keynes, MK14 5BU, England
Amalienstrasse 59-61, 1131 Wien, Ausiria |
Zonnebaan 39, 3606 CH Maarssenbroek, P.B. 264, 3600 AG Maarssen, The Netherlands
Stenen Brug 115-117, 2200 Antwerpen, Belgium
Riedhof V, Riedstrasse 6 8953 Dietikon-Zürich, Switzerland
Brännkyrkagatan 64, Box 17074, S-10462 Stockholm 17, Sweden
101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446, U.S.A.
11150 Hope Street Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
3000 Tollview Drive, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008, U.S.A.
5904 Peachtree Corners East, Norcross, GA 30071, U.S.A.
369 Britannia Road East, Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 2H5, Canada
376 rue McArthur, St. Laurent, Quebec H4T 1X8, Canada
105-3830 Jacombs Road, Richmond, B.C. V6V 1Y6, Canada
Room 208, 2/F, Eastern Center, 1065 King’s Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
10, Teban Gardens Crescent, Singapore 2260
MINOLTA
© 1985 Minolta Camera Co., Ltd. under the Berne
9222-2025-41 Convention and Universal Copyright Convention NO11-A30 Printed in Japan
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