Contax Aria

posted 7-3-'03

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Thank you for your purchase of the Contax Aria, the latest addition to the Contax tradition of great picture making tools The Aria is a compact, lightweight, multi-mode AE SLR camera featuring an evaluative metering system that can automatically provide exposure compensation for backlighted subjects. Before using the camera, please read through this instruction manual carefully so that you will be able to handle it correctly for long and trouble free operation. Although the descriptions in this manual assume the use of a multi-mode planar T. 50 mm F1.4 (MM) lens, the operating procedures for other Carl Zeiss interchangeable lenses designed for use with Contax 35 mm SLR cameras are the same unless otherwise specified. < Packing List> Make sure that the package contains the following items. 1. Eyecup F-2. Lithium batteries (CR2) X2 3. Strap set 4. Instruction manual (this manual) 5. Contax warranty card 6. List of customizable features

Contents

Miscellaneous Shooting Techniques Metering System 116 Exposure Compensation 126 <1. Using the Exposure Compensation Dial> <2. Using the AE Lock> <3. Using the A.B.C. Mode (Automatic Exposure Compensation for 3 Consecutive Frames)> Flash Photography 146 <Taking Pictures on TTL Direct Light Metering> <Slow Shutter Synchronization> <Daylight Flash> <Second Curtain Synchronization> <Taking Pictures Using X-contact Flash Units Other than TLA Flash Unit> Multiple Exposure 164 Using the Self-timer 170 Other Functions Custom Functions 174 <List of Custom Functions> Setting the Custom Functions 182 Release Socket 186 Detaching the Camera Back 188 Aperture Stop-down Button 190 Basic Photographic Concepts 192 Exposure, Shutter Speed, Aperture Value, Film Speed, Depth of Field Camera Care and Precautions 196
Names of Parts 14 Quick Guide to Shooting (Automatic Exposure) 18 Attaching the Eyepiece Cover and Strap 22 Attaching the Eyecup 24 Basic Operations Before Shooting Loading the Batteries 26 <Battery Check> <Battery Replacement> Mounting and Dismounting the Lens 34 Main Switch 38 Viewfinder Display and Display Panel 40 Loading the Film 54 Setting the Film Speed 58 <Checking the Film Speed> Exposure Mode Selector Lever 68 Drive Mode Button 70 Shutter Speed Dial 76 Metering Mode Selector Lever 78 Focusing the Lens 80 Holding the Camera 84 Rewinding the Film 86 Shutter Speed and Aperture Indicators 90 Taking Pictures Selecting the Exposure Mode 92 Aperture-priority Auto Exposure [Av] 96 Shutter-speed-priority Auto Exposure [Tv] 98 Programmed Auto Exposure [P] 104 Manual Exposure [M] 112 Bulb Exposure [B] 114

Optional Accessories Contax TLA360 Flash Unit 202 Contax Data Back D-9 (multi-function type) 212 Contax Power Pack Adapter GP-FU Type Focusing Screens 226 FL Type Diopter Lenses 234 Flex Case C-Specifications 238 In Case of Difficulty 247

Names of Parts

(1) Exposure Compensation Dial (P. 126) (2) A.B.C. Lever (P. 140) (3) Display Panel (P. 50) (4) ISO Button/"UP" Button (P. 64) (5) Drive Mode Button/'DOWN" Button (P. 70) (6) Main Switch (P. 38) (7) Shutter Release (8) Lens Release Button (P. 36) (9) Release Socket (P. 186) (10) Self-timer LED (P. 170) Aperture Stop-down Button (P. 1 90) (12) Accessory Shoe (P. 146) (13) Dedicated Flash Contact (14) Direct X-contact (15) Shutter Speed Dial (P. 76) (16) Exposure Mode Selector Lever (P. 68) Strap Lug (Attaching the Strap, P. 22) (18) Lens Index (P. 34) (19) Screen Release Claw (P. 230) (20) Mount
(21) Exposure Mode Lock Release Button (P. 68) (22) Sync Terminal Camera Back Opening Lever (P. 54) (24) Camera Back Lock Release Button (P. 54) (25) Manual Rewind Button (P. 86) (26) Film Check Window (27) Eyecup (P 24) (28) Metering Mode Selector Lever (P 78) (29) Viewfinder Eyepiece (P. 40) (30) Tripod Socket Battery Compartment, Battery Compartment Cover (P. 26) (32) Shutter Curtain (P. 54) (33) Film Mounting Spindle (34) DX Contact (35) Film Chamber (36) Data Back Contacts (37) Spool (38) Camera Back Release Pin (P. 1 88) (39)Film Leader Mark (P. 56) (40) Camera Back

QUICK GUIDE

(Av) Aperture-priority auto exposure (P. 98) (Tv) Shutter-speed-priority auto exposure (P. 98) (only when MM lens is used) (P) Programmed auto exposure (P. 104) (only when MM lens is used)
Set the exposure mode selector lever to "Av" Set the exposure mode selector lever to "Tv" and set minimum lens aperture (green)
Set the exposure mode selector lever to ""P"" and set minimum lens aperture (green)
Set the aperture Set the shutter speed. Focus, compose the picture and shoot.

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Attaching the Eyepiece Cover and Strap: CLICK HERE TO SEE HOW TO INSTALL STRAP First thread the strap through the eyepiece cover. Then attach the strap as shown in the illustration below. When it is

Attaching the Eyecup

First thread the strap through the eyepiece cover. Then attach the strap as shown in the illustration below.
Attach the eyecup to the eyepiece as shown in the illustration.
When it is not possible to keep your eye at the viewfinder such as when using the self-timer or Cable Switch L, attach the eyepiece cover to prevent stray light from entering through the eyepiece and adversely affecting exposure.

BASIC OPERATIONS BEFORE SHOOTING Loading the Batteries
Turn the main switch OFF before loading the batteries.
1 Open the battery compartment cover.
Use a coin or the like to turn the battery compartment cover in the direction of the arrow and open it.
2 Insert two 3 V lithium batteries (CR2) in the 2 battery compartment making sure that they are correctly oriented.
Note that not only does the camera not function it may also be damaged when the batteries are inserted incorrectly.

3 Close the cover.

< Battery Replacement> You should replace the batteries when " " appears on the display panel. Turn the main switch off, open the battery compartment cover and replace the batteries with new ones. Although you can take pictures even after " " appears, you should replace the batteries as soon as possible. If the battery capacity drops below the effective limit, " battery* " on the display panel blinks or goes out and the camera will no longer operate.
< Battery Check> After the batteries are loaded, turn on the camera. The battery voltage is normal if " battery* " (battery warning mark) does not appear in the display panel.
The voltage of some batteries may temporarily decrease causing " camera. If " " does not appear again, you can use the batteries. < Battery Precautions >
" to appear when they are loaded in the
" appears soon after new batteries are loaded, turn the main switch off and then back on again. If "
Always replace the batteries with new ones of the same type. Do not mix different kinds of batteries or new and old batteries. Always use two new batteries of the same type and brand. Generally, battery performance is reduced by cold temperatures. If you are shooting in cold weather, it is advisable to keep the camera warm in a bag or an outfit for protection against cold. The battery reduced by low temperatures will return to normal when you take pictures at an ordinary temperature. Before loading the batteries wipe both poles clean with a dry cloth because poor contact may result if they are soiled with sweat or grease. If you are going on a long trip, bring new spare batteries with you. Do not throw used batteries into fire or try to change or disassemble them because it is dangerous. The 3V lithium battery (CR2) cannot be charged by any means. Battery should be kept away from children.
Mounting and Dismounting the Lens
<Mounting the Lens> First, remove the camera body cap and the tens rear cap by fuming them counterclockwise. Then, align the red dot on the lens with lens index on the camera, fit it in and turn it clockwise until it locks with a click. If the lens is fitted on the camera body without aligning it with the red dot, levers and other mechanisms will be exposed to excess force leading to damage or failure.

Note on the shutter curtain: The shutter curtain is a precision part. Never touch it with your finger or strike Ike it with film leader. When the film leader lies on the shutter curtain, in particular, never trip the shutter.
3. Pull out the film leader as far as the orange "l" mark and place it on the spool. Make sure that the film is in contact with the shutter and does not curl outwards (see illustrations below). When too much of the film has been pulled out, rewind excess film back into the cassette. 4. Make sure the camera back is properly closed. When the camera back is closed, the film is automatically advanced into position for the first shot and the exposure counter will show "01." When the exposure counter in the display blinks and does not move from "00" the film is not advancing properly. Open the camera back and reload the film properly again Setting the Film Speed
The film speed can be set in two ways: automatic setting with DX-codes and manual setting. The film speed is automatically set when the main switch is on and "DX" is displayed on the display panel. When using DX-coding film no adjustment is required. Be sure to set the film speed manually when "DX" is not shown on the display.
When set to "DX" (automatic speed setting mode) When DX-coded film is used, the film speed is automatically set. The film speed range for DX coded film is ISO 25 to 5000. The "DX" mark and the film speed is indicated on the film package. The film speed is automatically set to ISO 100 when film other than DX-coded film is loaded.
Manual Setting of the Film Speed Set the film speed manually when using non-Ding film, or when you want to use a film speed other than that of the film. You can set the film speed in 1/3 step increments in a range of ISO 6 to 6400. A manual film speed setting overrides a DX coded film speed setting.
1. Turn the main switch on and hold down the ISO button (about 2 sec.) until the film speed setting starts blinking. Take your finger off the button when the blinking starts.
2. Press the "UP" button (ISO button) or 2 "DOWN" button (Drive Mode button) so that "DX" or the desired film speed setting appears on the display panel.
The film speed changes in 1/3 steps each time the buttons are pressed.
DX - 6 - 8 - 10 - - 5000 - 6400 - (The film speed changes continuously when the buttons are held down.)
3. Now turn main switch off to complete film speed setting. The film speed setting can also be completed by depressing the shutter release halfway or by leaving the camera idle for 16 seconds. When the film speed setting is made, the exposure counter reading replaces the film speed value. The set film speed is stored until it is reset. < Checking the Film Speed > Turn the main switch on and press the ISO button to display the film speed setting on the display panel for about 16 seconds. "DX" and the film speed is displayed in DX mode.

Use this lever to change exposure modes. Press in the exposure mode lock release button and turn the exposure mode selector lever to set the exposure mode index to desired position.

Drive Mode Button

The drive mode button allows you to select one of the following four modes: "S" single-frame shooting, "C" continuous shooting mode, " " self-timer shooting and " " multiple exposure modes.
1. Turn the main switch on and hold down the drive mode button until the drive mode setting starts to blink (about 2
seconds). Take your finger off the button when the blinking starts.
2. Press the drive mode button (DOWN button) or the ISO button (UP button) to set the desired drive mode. 3. Press the shutter release halfway to light 3 the drive mode indication. This action completes the drive mode setting.
The drive mode can also be set by operating the main switch, changing exposure mode or waiting 8 seconds until the blinking is replaced by steady lighting.

In self timer mode

" or multiple exposure mode "
", the respective indication blinks.
When the main switch is set to OFF while " " or " " mode has been set, the mode is canceled. When the main switch is turned on later, the camera starts in "S" drive mode.
"S" Single-frame shooting mode Each time the shutter release is depressed, one frame is exposed and the film is
advanced for the next shot, then stops.
"C" Continuous shooting mode While the shutter release is depressed, the camera continues to take pictures at a maximum speed of about 3 frames a second. (The shooting speed differs with the shutter speed, film speed, whether or not dates are imprinted between frames, battery condition, etc.)

" "

" Self-timer shooting mode Use this mode for self-timer shooting. For details, see page 170. " Multiple exposure shooting Use this mode for multiple exposure shooting. For details see page 164.
Use the shutter speed dial to adjust the shutter speed. It can be used in the shutter-speed priority auto exposure ("TV") and manual exposure ("M") modes. Shutter speeds can be set in 1 step increments from 4s (4 sec.) to 4000 (1/4000 sec.). The shutter speed must be fixed at a click position when shooting.
This camera provides three metering methods: "
" evaluative metering,

The aperture is indicated in 1/2 steps in the aperture range of the used lens. However, when the aperture is operated in less than 1/2 steps, an approximate value will be displayed. For example, an aperture of F3.3 is indicated as "3.5".
Taking Pictures ~ Selecting the Exposure Mode
You can choose the following exposure modes depending on your shooting object and application.
Av: Aperture-priority Auto Exposure When choosing your desired aperture, the camera will automatically select the shutter speed suited for it to provide correct exposure. This mode is useful for taking pictures by utilizing the lens depth of field. Tv: Shutter-speed-priority Auto Exposure (with MM type lenses only) When choosing your desired shutter speed, the camera will automatically select the aperture suited for it to provide correct exposure. This mode is useful for taking fast moving objects.
P: Programmed Auto Exposure (with MM type lenses only) In this mode, the camera will automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed on a preset program in accordance with the brightness of the object. Because it is not necessary to set exposure, you can concentrate on composing your picture and choosing the best shooting moment. M: Manual Exposure In this mode, you can choose the aperture and shutter speed as desired. Intentional over-or underexposure is also easy. X: Flash Photography This mode is for use with an ordinary flash unit having only an X-contact but no dedicated flash linked contact. A shutter speed of 1/125 is used. For details, see "Taking Pictures Using X-contact Flash Units Other than TLA Flash Unit" on page 162. B: Bulb Exposure This mode can be used for taking night scenes or pictures of the sky at night which require long exposure. If an AE lens is mounted on the camera, you cannot take pictures in the "Tv" or "P" mode. Even if it is been set to the "Tv" or "P" mode, it will nevertheless operate in the "Av" mode. If no lens is mounted on the camera, the exposure mode will automatically switch to the "Av" mode even if it has been set to the "Tv" or "P" mode.
Aperture-priority Auto Exposure [Av]
1. Set the exposure mode selector lever to 1 "Av." 2. Set the aperture and shoot.
When setting the aperture with the lens aperture ring, the camera will automatically set a suitable shutter speed. The set aperture and the automatically set shutter speed light in the viewfinder. It does not matter where the shutter speed dial is set.

Example 1: When a large aperture is used the depth of field is small. Example 2: When a small aperture is used the depth of field is large.
Shutter-speed-priority Auto Exposure [Tv] (with MM type lenses only)
1. Set the lens aperture to the minimum 1 aperture (green) and set the exposure mode selector lever to ""Tv."." The minimum aperture on the aperture ring of MM type lenses is marked in green to show that you should set the lens to it in the programmed auto exposure and shutter speed- priority auto exposure modes. 2. Set the shutter speed and shoot When the shutter speed is set by turning the shutter speed dial, the camera will automatically set the aperture suited for it.
Example 1: Fast shutter speed
Example 2. Slow shutter speed
< Shutter Speed Shift and Warning in the Shutter-Speed-Priority Auto Exposure Mode >
In the ""Tv"" m mode , the shutter speed you have selected cannot provide correct exposure because the aperture suited for it is beyond the lens aperture range, the camera will then automatically shift the shutter speed to always provide correct exposure. The shifted shutter speed is displayed. The controllable range of shutter speeds on automatic setting is from 16 to 1/4000 seconds. When the correct shutter speed is faster than that you have set, the aperture will blink. Make sure the lens is set at minimum aperture. When an MM type lens is set to an aperture that is not its minimum aperture, the camera will automatically choose an appropriate aperture between the maximum aperture and the aperture being set.
Programmed [P] (with MM type lenses only)
1. Set the lens to its minimum aperture (in 1 green) and set the
exposure mode selector lever to "P."
2. Compose your picture and shoot.
The camera will automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed to suit your subject, and the selected aperture and shutter speed will be displayed in the viewfinder.
< Programmed Auto Control Diagram> (with F1.4 lens, using F16 and ISO 100)
The combination of aperture and shutter speed which can be set in the programmed auto exposure mode are shown in the diagram. An aperture value between the set aperture and full opening is automatically set if the MM lens is not set to its minimum aperture.
Precautions on Auto Exposure (Av, Tv, P)
Over/Underexposure Warning in Auto Exposure> Overexposure Warning: A blinking overexposure mark indicates overexposure. Because the subject is too bright, readjust the aperture so that the mark goes off. It is also possible to reduce the light intensity with an optional ND filter. Underexposure Warning: A blinking underexposure mark indicates underexposure. Because the subject is too dark, use additional light to brighten up the subject or change the aperture so that the mark goes off. Also, a dedicated flash unit will let you take correctly exposed pictures. Even when an over-or underexposure warning appears, you can still take the picture by pressing the shutter release.

The area marked by colored lines in the table represents the range of shutter speeds from 16 to 1/4000 seconds in which the camera can measure exposure in the auto exposure modes. The range marked by thick lines represents the metering range with an F1.4 lens and ISO 100 film.

<Metering Range>

This chart shows the relationship of the aperture, shutter speed and EV value, and you can check the metering range of your lens on it. If you are shooting with an ISO 100 film and F1.4 lens in the center-weighted average light metering mode, for example, first find "100" on the ISO column in the Lens Aperture table and locate "1.4" and "16" in this row (the minimum aperture of the Planar T. 50 mm is F16). Then, follow the corresponding oblique lines and find their intersecting points with the vertical line (EV) and horizontal line (shutter speed). This represents the limits of the metering range of an F1.4 lens which is EV "2" to EV "20". * The exposure value (EV) shows the coupling range of an exposure meter and represents the shutter speed and aperture combinations that yield the same exposure effect in a given lightning condition. For example, EV 13 in the chart shows that you can take the same exposure at both F16 1/30 sec. and F8, 1/126 sec. If there is a great difference in brightness between the subject and its background, the subject will not be correctly exposed. In this case, use exposure compensation. Exposure compensation can also be used for intentional over-and underexposure. There are three methods:

EXPOSURE COMPENSATION

<1. Using the Exposure Compensation Dial > Normally, the exposure compensation dial is set to "O" in the aperture-priority (Av), shutter-speed priority (Tv) or programmed auto exposure (P) and manual exposure (M) modes. To compensate exposure, turn and set the dial so that your desired compensating value comes opposite the index mark. It can be set in 1/3-EV increments within a range of +2 EV to -2 EV. When the exposure compensation dial is set anywhere except "0", the "+" or "-" mark will blink in the viewfinder, indicating that the exposure compensation is in effect.
In the manual exposure mode (M), exposure cannot be corrected using exposure compensation. However, the exposure meter shows the difference between the set value and "appropriate" exposure. Thus to compensate exposure, use the shutter speed dial or aperture ring to set the desired difference (exposure compensation) before shooting.

<Daylight Flash >

Subjects under direct sunlight or backlight will turn out dark without exposure compensation or fill-in flash. When using the TLA flash in the TTL auto mode in such cases, both the subject and background will be beautifully exposed. In "Av" or "Tv" exposure mode: If the up mark blinks after the flash is fully charged, adjust the aperture ring to make the aperture slower until the up mark disappears.
In "P" exposure mode: In bright light, the exposure is automatically adjusted for daylight flash. In "M" or "X" exposure mode: In the "M" mode, set the shutter speed dial to 1/125 sec or slower. Adjust the aperture so that the exposure meter in the viewfinder indicates "correct exposure" and shoot. <Using the Exposure Compensation Dial > In the TTL auto mode, the amount of flash light couples with the camera's exposure compensation dial. If you want to bring out the mood by adjusting the amount of flash, use the exposure compensation dial.
< Second Curtain Synchronization > Second curtain synchronization is very useful for shooting moving subjects when using slow shutter synchronization. In ordinary flash photography, the flash is fired immediately after the first curtain of the shutter has completed traveling (first curtain synchronization). In combination with a Contax flash having a second curtain synchronization capability, this camera can trigger the flash just before the second curtain starts to travel (second curtain synchronization). Behind the subject illuminated by flash light, the movement of the subject illuminated by ambient light is captured like a flowing line so that its natural movement is depicted clearly. The exposure is controlled in the same way as for ordinary flash photography (first curtain synchronization).
<Taking Pictures Using X-contact Flash Units Other than TLA Flash Unit>
1 Mount the flash unit on the camera. Set l the exposure mode selector lever to "X."
The shutter speed is set to 1/125 sec. It does not matter where the shutter speed dial is set.
2 Set the aperture and shoot.
Set the aperture according to the instructions for the flash unit you use. When using a cord type flash that has no direct contact, connect the cord to the sync terminal on the side of the camera.

Multiple Exposure

Other Functions

This camera is provided with five custom functions which are described in the table below. The camera functions are set to standard mode when shipped (setting "0"). (Operations described in this instruction manual assume that the camera is used in standard mode ("0"). When changing the custom functions, see section, "Setting the Custom Functions" on page 182. Camera operation changes when the custom functions are set. Read through the section, "List of Custom Functions" to make sure that you use the functions correctly.
Setting the Custom Functions
1 Turn the main switch on and hold down the ISO button and the drive mode button simultaneously until the indication shown in the illustration appears on the display panel (2 sec.).
Take your fingers off the buttons when the indication (custom function setting position) shown in the illustration appears on the display panel.
2 Press the ISO button to select and display 2 the function number to be set.
Each time the ISO button is pressed, the function numbers are displayed in the following order: 1--2--3--4--5--1 (repeating).
3 Press the drive mode button and select 3 the desired item number.
The item number changes each time the drive mode button is pressed. Select "O" or "1."
4 Turn the main switch off to compete the setting.
The setting can also be completed by depressing the shutter release halfway or by leaving the camera idle for 16 seconds
This socket is used for connecting cable switch L or Auto Bellows to transmit electric signals from these accessories to operate the shutter. During shooting using cable switch L, stray light may enter the viewfinder eyepiece and affect exposure since you cannot keep your eye at the viewfinder. To prevent this, attach the eyepiece cover over the eyepiece (see page 22). Do not connect cable releases sold on the market to the release socket as this may damage the socket.

Detaching the Back

It is possible to detach the camera back and replace it with an optional Data Back D-9 (see page 212). The camera back can be removed by pushing down the camera back release pin.
Aperture Stop-down Button
The lens will always remain wide open to provide a clearer view through the viewfinder. However, it can be stopped down to your desired aperture by depressing this button (the image in the viewfinder will become darker accordingly) to check the depth of field or the blurred effect on the background.
You cannot get correct exposure when taking pictures or checking exposure with the aperture stop-down button.
BASIC PHOTOGRAPHIC CONCEPTS
<Exposure> Lighting to film. When a picture is taken, the aperture value and shutter speed adjusts the amount of light to the film. <Shutter speed> The shutter in the camera controls the amount of light that reaches the film by the length of time it stays open. The time the shutter stays open is the shutter speed. < Apertures Value> The aperture in the lens controls the amount of light going through the lens by becoming smaller or larger. The size of the opening produced by the size of the aperture is the aperture value. < Film Speed (ISO Value)> Film speed is measured by values determined by ISO (the International Standardization Organization). A small ISO value means lower sensitivity but finer grain and higher image quality. A large ISO value means high sensitivity. Such films can be used in locations with poor ambient lighting or with fast shutter speeds, but it has coarser grain and therefore poorer image quality.

< Depth of Field>

When a subject is in focus, not only the subject itself but also some area in front and behind the subject will also be sharp. The range between the nearest and farthest points that are sharp is the depth of field. (1) The depth of field increases with small apertures and decreases with large apertures. (2) The depth of field is larger for a distant subject and smaller for a near subject. (3) The depth of field is larger behind than in front a subject in focus. A lens with a long focal length (telephoto lenses) have narrower depth of field than a lens with short focal length. The depth of field scale on a lens tells us the depth of field that it provides. For example, if we focus a 50mm F1.4 standard lens on a subject 2 meters away and use an aperture of F16, the distance indicated by depth of field scale 16 shows that we obtain a depth of field from 1.4 m to 5 m.
Camera Care and Precautions
To remove dust and dirt on the lens and viewfinder glass, blow off with an air blower or wipe gently with a soft lens brush. If they are soiled with fingerprints, wipe off lightly with lens tissue. That is enough. Never use a bomb type blower. With its air pressure, dust and dirt may get farther into the camera interior. Wipe off dust and dirt on the minor lightly with a lens brush To clean the camera exterior, wipe with the soft cloth. Never use benzene, thinner or other solvents. After taking pictures in a dusty place such as at the seaside or on mountains, clean the camera thoroughly. Salt air will cause corrosion and sand and dust will adversely affect the internal precision parts of the camera. Do not leave the camera in hot places (on an ocean beach in summer, in a parked car under direct sunlight, etc.) for a long time, because the camera, film and battery may be adversely affected. The lens and viewfinder may be clouded if the camera is brought into a warm room from outside where d is cold. This cloudiness will disappear soon, but it is always advisable to avoid sudden temperature changes because water droplets will cause internal corrosion. If you are going to use the camera for important events such as an overseas trip or wedding ceremony, be sure to test it beforehand to make sure it functions properly. It is also advisable to bring a spare battery with you.

< Internal shooting > The interval shooting function makes it possible to take automatically the set number of pictures at the set interval, starting from the set time. It is convenient for observing changes with time or unattended shooting.
Contax Power Pack Adaptor GP-1
This adapter connects the Contax Power Pack P-8 (optional accessory) to Contax Aria. The P-8 is an external power supply which uses four 1.5 V Msize alkaline batteries or four 1.2 V M-size Ni-Cd batteries. In order to prevent the battery deterioration due to cold weather, the power pack is used to keep the camera power supply warm.
Installing the Power Adapter
1. Install Power Pack Adapter GP-1 in the 1 camera. Remove
the lithium battery in the camera and install GP-1 instead. Store the battery compartment cover in a safe place.
2. Load batteries in the Power Pack P-8.
(1) Insert four type M batteries in the supplied battery case according to the symbols in it. Install the battery case in the Power Pack P-8. (2) Put the Power Pack into the jacket (case).
3. Insert the Power Pack P-8 plug into the power socket of the adapter GP-1.
It is advisable to protect the Power Pack under your coat or jacket when you are taking pictures in cold weather. When changing the batteries, do not mix different batteries or used batteries with new ones. Replace all the four batteries with new ones of the same type at the same time. When you are not going to use the Power Pack for quite some time, take the batteries out of the battery case to prevent battery leaks. To remove the connection cord, pull the plug and not the cord. P-8 Specifications Configuration: Power pack, battery case, jacket (with strap), length of cord: 1.5 m Power supply: Four I.5 V M-size alkaline batteries or four 1.2 V M-size Ni-Cd batteries (M-size manganese batteries are not powerful enough and cannot be used)
Battery capacity (Number of rolls 24-exposure film that can be exposed with new batteries, in accordance with Contax testing standards) Battery type Four AA-size alkaline batteries: Four 1.2 V AA-size Ni-Cd batteries: Ordinary temperature approx. 25 approx 10*
* Use the Ni-Cd batteries fully loaded. Design and specification subject to change without prior notice.
There are four interchangeable focusing screens for Contax Aria: FU-3, FU-4, FU-5, and FU-6. The screens have a 5 mm diameter circle in the center marking the spot metering area (FU-3 and FU-4 have a microprism as well).
Never touch the focusing screens because they are machined to very high precision.
FU-3 (45 split-image/microprism screen): Essentially the same as the FU-4, this screen has a 45 split image center spot ideal for focusing images with horizontal lines since you do not have to tilt the camera. FU-4 (horizontal split-image/microprism screen): This screen is provided as standard on the Contax Aria. This screen enables you to focus using a center split-image spot, microprism collar around it, and a surrounding matte area making it suitable for a wide range of subjects. FU-5 (matte screen): This screen consists of a matte area all around and is suited for a relatively narrow-aperture lens such as a long-focus lens. It is also suited for close-up work and other situations when it is difficult to focus with a microprism or split-image spot. FU-6 (sectioned matte screen): It has ruled lines at 6mm intervals on a matte screen and is especially suited for taking pictures using perspective control with Auto Bellows or PC Distagon or when it is necessary to precisely determine a composition during copying work, etc.