Dear Customer,
Leica would like to thank you for purchasing the Leica M-D and to
congratulate you on your choice. With this unique digital view and
range finder camera, you have made an excellent choice.
Foreword
We wish you a great deal of pleasure and success using your new
camera.
In order to make best use of all the opportunities offered by this
high performance camera, we recommend that you first read this
instruction manual.
56
Page 3
This is a Class B product based on the standard of the Voluntary
Control Council for Interference from Information Technology
Equipment (VCCI).
If this is used near a radio or television receiver in a domestic
environment, it may cause radio interference. Install and use the
equipment according to the instruction manual.
FCC Note:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interfer ence in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guar antee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from
that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for
help.
FCC Caution:
To assure continued compliance, follow the attached installation
instructions and use only shielded inter face cables with ferrite core
when connecting to com put er or peripheral devices. Any changes
or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this
equipment.
Trade Name:LEICA
Model No.:LEICA M-D (Typ 262)
Responsible party/
Support contact:
Leica Camera Inc.
1 Pearl Count, Unit A
Allendale, New Jersey 07401
Tel.: +1 201 995 0051
Fax: +1 201 995 1684
technicalinfo@leicacamerausa.com
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Technical data .........................................................................104
Leica service addresses ...........................................................108
59
Page 6
EN
The CE identification of our products documents compliance
with the fundamental requirements of the applicable EU
directives.
WARNING MESSAGES
• Modern electronic elements react sensitively to electrostatic
discharge. As you can easily pick up charges of tens of thousands of volts, by walking on synthetic carpets for example, a
discharge can occur when you touch your camera, particularly if
Warnings/Legal notices
it is placed on a conductive surface. If only the camera housing
is touched, this discharge is harmless to the electronics. However, despite built-in safety circuits, the outer contacts, such as
the accessory shoe, battery or rear panel contacts, should not
be touched if at all possible for safety reasons. If the accessory
shoe is not in use, the relevant cover (supplied) should always be
in place.
• For any cleaning of the contacts, do not use an optical microfiber cloth (synthetic); use a cotton or linen cloth instead! Before
touching the contacts, you can make sure you discharge any
electrostatic charge by deliberately touching a heating or water
pipe (conductive, earthed material). You can also avoid soiling
and oxidization of the contacts by storing your camera in a dry
place with the lens or bayonet cover fitted.
• Use only the recommended accessories to prevent faults, short
circuits or electric shock.
• Do not attempt to remove parts of the housing (covers); repairs
must be done at authorized service centers only.
LEGAL INFORMATION
• Please ensure that you strictly observe copyright laws. The
recording and publication of pre-recorded media such as tapes,
CDs, or other published or broadcast material may contravene
copyright laws.
• This also applies to all of the software supplied.
• The SD, HDMI, and USB logos are registered trademarks.
• Other names, company and product names referred to in this
manual are trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies.
60
Page 7
DISPOSAL OF ELECTRICAL AND
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
(Applies within the EU, and for other European countries
with segregated waste collection systems)
This device contains electrical and/or electronic components and
must therefore not be disposed of in general household waste!
Instead, it should be disposed of at a recycling collection point
provided by the local authority. This costs you nothing. If the device
contains standard or rechargeable batteries, these must be
removed first and also be disposed of in line with relevant regulations.
Further information on the subject is available from your local
administration, your local waste collection company, or in the store
where you purchased this device.
The production date of your camera can be found on the stickers in
the warranty card and/or on the packaging and that of the
rechargeable batteries on their housing. In the case of the camera,
this is written year/month/day and in the case of the rechargeable
batteries calendar week/year (WW/YY).
EN
Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment
61
Page 8
EN
DESIGNATION OF PARTS
Figures in the front and rear cover pages
Front view
1 Lens release button
2 Eyes for carrying strap
3 Range finder viewing window
4 Brightness sensor
5 Self-timer LED
– Camera
– Battery
– Memory card (not supplied)
– Charger and mains cable
Quick-Start Guide
PREPARATIONS
1. Charge the battery (see p. 65)
2. Insert the battery (see p. 68)
3. Insert the memory card (see p. 69)
4. Turn on the camera (see p. 74)
5. Set the date and time (see p. 76)
TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
6. Attach the lens (see p. 73)
7. Set the shutter speed setting dial to
8. Set the subject focus (see p. 80)
9. Turn on the camera (see p. 74)
10. Turn on exposure metering (see p. 82)
11. Correct the exposure, if necessary (see p. 84)
12. Release the shutter (see p. 54)
PREPARATION
ATTACHING THE CARRYING STRAP
A (see p. 75)
64
Page 11
CHARGING THE BATTERY
The camera is powered by a lithium ion battery.
• The green LED marked CHARGE starts fl ashing to confi rm that
charging is in progress. As soon as the battery has charged to at
4
least
⁄5 of its capacity, the yellow LED marked 80% also lights
up. When the battery is fully charged, the green LED also
changes from fl ashing to continuously lit.
Note:
The
80% LED lights up after around 2 hours due to the charging
characteristics.
The charger should be disconnected from the mains when charging
is complete. There is therefore no risk of overcharging.
EN
Preparations
65
Page 12
EN
Caution:
• Only the battery type specified and described in this manual
(Order No. 14 499), or battery types specified and described by
Leica Camera AG, may be used in this camera.
• These batteries may only be used in the units for which they are
designed and may only be charged exactly as described below.
• Using this battery contrary to the instructions and using non-
Preparations
specified battery types can result in an explosion under certain
circumstances!
• The batteries must not be exposed to heat or sunlight for pro-
longed periods, or to humidity or moisture. Likewise, the batteries must not be placed in a microwave oven or a high pressure
container as this results in a risk of fire or explosion!
• A safety valve in the battery guarantees that any excess pres-
sure caused by improper handling is discharged safely.
• Only the charger specified and described in this manual (order
no. 14 494) is to be used. The use of other chargers not
approved by Leica Camera AG can cause damage to the batteries and, in extreme cases, can cause serious or life-threatening
injuries.
• The charger supplied should be used exclusively for charging this
battery type. Do not attempt to use it for other purposes.
• The car charging cable supplied must never be connected while
the charger is connected to the mains.
• Ensure that the mains outlet used for charging is freely accessible.
• The battery and charger must not be opened. Repairs may only
be carried out by authorized service centers.
66
Page 13
Notes:
• The battery should be charged before the camera is used for the
first time.
• The battery must have a temperature of 10°-30°C to be charged
(otherwise the charger will not turn on, or will turn off again).
• Lithium ion batteries can be charged at any time, regardless of
their current charge level. If a battery is only partly discharged
when charging starts, it is charged to full capacity faster.
• The batteries warm up during the charging process. This is
normal and not a malfunction.
• If the two LEDs on the charger flash rapidly (> 2Hz) after starting
charging, this indicates a charging error (e.g. maximum charging
time exceeded, voltages or temperatures outside the permitted
ranges, or short circuit). In this case, disconnect the charger
from the mains and remove the battery. Ensure that the above
temperature conditions are met and then restart the charging
process. If the problem persists, please contact your dealer, the
Leica office in your country or Leica Camera AG.
• A new battery only reaches its full capacity after it has been fully
charged and – by use in the camera - discharged again 2 or 3
times. This discharge procedure should be repeated every 25
cycles. To ensure a maximum service life of the battery, it should
not be exposed to constant extremes of temperature (e.g. in a
parked car in the summer or winter).
• Even when used under optimum conditions, every battery has a
limited service life! After several hundred charging cycles, this
becomes noticeable as the operating times become significantly
shorter.
• The battery should be replaced after a maximum of four years,
as its performance deteriorates and reliable operation can no
longer be guaranteed, particularly in cold conditions.
• Defective batteries should be disposed of according to the
respective instructions (see p. 61).
• The replaceable battery provides power to a back-up battery
which is permanently fitted in the camera. This back-up battery
retains the set date and time for up to 2 months. If this back-up
battery becomes discharged it must be recharged by inserting
the replaceable main battery. Once the replaceable battery has
been inserted, the full capacity of the back-up battery is recovered after about a few days. This process does not require the
camera to be turned on.
EN
Preparations
67
Page 14
EN
CHANGING THE BATTERY/MEMORY CARD
Turn the camera off (see p. 74).
Important:
Do not open the bottom cover or remove the memory card or
battery while the red LED on the back of the camera is fl ashing,
indicating picture recording and/or data saving to the card. Other-
Preparations
wise the unsaved (or not completely saved) picture data may be
lost.
Removing the bottom cover
Inserting the battery
Removing the battery
68
1
3
2
1
4
2
Page 15
Charge level display
You can display the current battery capacity in the viewfi nder:
1. Turn on the camera
Only necessary if the viewfi nder display has switched itself off
again even though the camera is switched on:
2. Press the shutter release button to the fi rst pressure point
3. Press the function button 2x.
• When pressed repeatedly, the battery and memory card
capacities are alternately displayed as percentages. To
diff erentiate, when the battery capacity is displayed, a dot
also lights up at the top of the display for the battery capacity.
Notes:
• The capacity display appears irrespective of whether the viewfi nder display was on before or not.
• Remove the battery if you will not be using the camera for a long
period of time.
• A maximum of 2 months after the capacity of a battery left in
the camera is exhausted (see also the last note under “Charging
the battery”, p. 65), the date and time need to be re-entered.
Inserting the memory card
Removing the memory card
EN
Preparations
69
Page 16
EN
Compatible memory cards
The camera saves the pictures on an SD (secure digital), SDHC
(high capacity), or SDXC (eXtended capacity) card.
SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards are available from various suppliers and with different capacities and read/write speeds. Particularly those with high capacities and read/write speeds allow data
to be recorded and retrieved very quickly. The cards have a write
Preparations
protection switch, which can be used to prevent unintentional
storage and deletion of pictures. This switch takes the form of a
slider on the non-beveled side of the card; in the lower position,
marked LOCK, the data on the card is protected.
Only necessary if the viewfinder display has switched itself off
again even though the camera is switched on:
3. Press the shutter release button to the first pressure point
4. Press the function button 1x
• The relevant value is displayed.
3s after the shutter release button has been pressed to the
first pressure point, or after the function button has been let
go, the display returns to the normal state.
When the card's capacity limit has been reached, Full always
appears, irrespective of whether the viewfinder display was
switched on before or not.
70
Note:
Do not touch the memory card contacts.
Displaying the memory card capacity
You can display the number photographs that can still be taken in
the viewfinder:
1. Turn on the camera
• The battery capacity is displayed first.
2. Press the function button 1x
Notes:
• The range of SD/SDHC/SDXC cards is too large for Leica
Camera AG to be able to completely test all available types for
compatibility and quality. Although using other card types is not
likely to damage the camera or the card, some "no name" cards
do not comply with the SD/SDHC/SDXC standards and Leica
Camera AG is unable to provide any guarantee that they will
function correctly.
• If the memory card cannot be inserted, check that it is aligned
correctly.
• As electromagnetic fields, electrostatic charges, and defects on the
camera or the card can lead to damage or loss of the data on the
memory card, we recommend that you also transfer the data to a
computer and save it there (see p. 90).
• For the same reason, it is recommended that the card is always
stored in its antistatic cover.
Page 17
LEICA M LENSES
Generally, most Leica M lenses can be used. Details on the small
number of exceptions and restrictions can be found in the following
notes.
They can be used regardless of the lens features, and whether it
does or does not have 6-bit coding in the bayonet. In the case of
lenses with coding, the camera uses the information transmitted to
optimize exposure and image data.
Even without this additional feature, i.e. when using Leica M lenses
without identifi cation, the camera will deliver excellent pictures in
most situations.
Important:
• The following cannot be used:
– Hologon 1:8/15mm,
– Summicron 1:2/50mm with close-up,
– Elmar 1:4/90mm with retractable tube (manufactured from
1954-1968)
– Some versions of the Summilux-M 1.4/35mm (not aspherical,
manufactured from 1961-1995, Made in Canada) cannot be
fi tted to the camera or will not focus to infi nity. The Leica
Customer Care department can modify these lenses so that
they can be used on the camera.
• The following can be used, but risk damaging the camera or
lens:
Lenses with retractable tube can only be used with the tube
extended, i.e. their tube must never be retracted into the camera. This is not the case with the current Macro-Elmar-M
1:4/90mm, as its tube does not protrude into the camera body
even when retracted. It can therefore be used without any
restrictions.
EN
Preparations
71
Page 18
EN
The following can be used with restrictions
Despite the high precision of the range finder on the camera, exact
focusing with 135mm lenses with an open aperture cannot be
guaranteed due to the very low depth of field. Therefore, stopping
down by at least 2 stops is recommended.
• Possible, but excluded from the exposure metering
Preparations
– Super-Angulon-M 1:4/21mm
– Super-Angulon-M 1:3,4/21mm
– Elmarit-M 1:2,8/28mm with serial nos. before 2 314 921.
Notes:
• The Leica Customer Care department can retrofit many Leica M
lenses with 6-bit coding. (Address, see p. 108).
• When using the Leica Tri-Elmar-M 1:4/16-18-21mm ASPH., the
set focal length is not transferred to the camera and thus is not
included in the EXIF data for pictures.
• By contrast, the Leica Tri-Elmar-M 1:4/28-35-50mm ASPH
features mechanical transfer of the set focal length to the camera, necessary to display the appropriate bright line frame in the
viewfinder, which is scanned by the camera's electronics and
used for focal-length-specific compensation. This applies to all
three versions of the lens (item nos. 11 625, 11 890 and 11
894).
72
Page 19
Attaching the lens
Detaching the lens
EN
Preparations
1. Turn off the camera
2. Hold the lens at the fi xed ring
3. Align the red index button on the lens with the release button
on the camera housing.
4. In this position, insert the lens straight
5. Turn the lens slightly to the right, and you will hear and feel it
click into place.
1. Turn off the camera
2. Hold the lens at the fi xed ring.
3. Press down the release button on the camera housing
4. Turn the lens to the left until its red index button is aligned with
the release button.
5. Remove the lens
Notes:
• Generally, to protect against ingress of dust etc. into the interior
of the camera, it is important always to have a lens or a cover
fi tted to the camera body.
• For the same reason, when changing lenses work quickly and in
an environment that is as dust-free as possible.
• Camera or lens rear covers should not be stored in your pants
pocket as they attract dust that can get into the camera when
they are fi tted.
73
Page 20
EN
OPERATING ELEMENTS
MAIN SWITCH
16 17
Camera operation
The camera is turned ON and OFF using the main switch. This is
below the shutter release button and is a lever with four detent
positions:
OFF – Camera turned off
b.
S – Single picture
Pressing the shutter release takes a single picture regardless of
how long it is held down for. Activation of the shutter release
button is extremely quiet and causes minimum vibration.
c.
C - Continuous series
A series of pictures are taken for as long as the shutter release
is held down and the capacity of the memory card used and the
internal buff er memory is suffi cient. At least 8 pictures are taken
in rapid succession, subsequent pictures with a reduced frequency.
d.
- Self-timer
Pressing the shutter release starts the set delay time (see p. 90),
then the picture is taken.
Notes:
• After turning on, the camera is ready to use after approx. 1s.
• If the camera is out of use for an extended period or is stored in
a case, always turn it off at the main switch. This prevents any
power consumption, including that which continues to occur in
standby mode after the exposure meter is turned off automatically and the display is extinguished. This also prevents pictures
from being taken accidentally.
SHUTTER RELEASE BUTTON
The shutter release button has two pressure points:
1. Pressing down to the 1st pressure point
– activates exposure metering and the viewfi nder display
– saves the metered exposure value in aperture priority mode,
i.e. the shutter speed determined by the camera (for more
details, refer to the “Metering memory lock” section on p. 84)
* Depending on card speed
74
Page 21
If the shutter release button is pressed down to this pressure
stage, the display stays on. If the camera had previously been in
stand-by mode, it will be reactivated and the displays switched on.
If you release the shutter button, the metering system and the
displays remain activated for around a further 30s (for more
details, refer to the sections on p. 82).
Notes:
The shutter button remains blocked if
– the internal buff er memory is (temporarily) full, e.g. after a series
of ≥16 pictures, or
– the memory card inserted and the internal buff er memory are
(temporarily) full, or
– the memory card inserted is write-protected, or
– the picture numbering of the memory card inserted is used up
(in such a case, format the card outside the camera after saving
the data), or
– the battery has exceeded its performance limits (capacity,
temperature, age)
– the bottom cover is not in place.
2. Pressing the shutter button all the way down takes a picture. The
data is then transferred to the memory card.
Note:
To avoid wobble, the shutter button should be pressed gently, not
jerkily, until the shutter is released with a soft click.
TIME THUMBWHEEL
The exposure modes are selected using the shutter speed thumbwheel,
– Aperture priority mode by setting the
– Manual mode by selecting a shutter speed of
A position (see p. 83),
1
⁄4000s to 8s, (inter-
mediate values in ½ step positions are also available), and
– the
shortest possible sync speed of 1⁄180s for fl ash mode,
marked with the symbol (s. S. 89), and
–
B for long exposures (see p. 85).
The Leica M shutter speed dial has no stop, i.e. it can be turned in
either direction from any position. It detents at all marked positions
and at the intermediate values. Values between the detent positions cannot be used.
More details on setting the correct exposure can be found in the
sections under the heading: "Exposure metering" from page 82.
EN
Camera operation
75
Page 22
EN
BASIC SETTINGS
DATE AND TIME
Accessing the setting mode:
1. Set main switch to
2. Press the function button for a long time (≥12s, during this
time, no other operation process may be carried out)
76
Actual setting is done only with the function button, the thumbwheel and the viewfi nder display.
Camera operation
Setting each of the values:
3. With thumbwheel
Switching between the value groups:
4. Briefl y press the function button
Order of the value groups
Adjusting the year:
Adjusting the month:
Adjusting the day:
Adjusting the hour:
Adjusting the minute:
Leaving the setting mode
1. Press the function button for a long time(≥12s), or turn the
main switch from the
release button
All settings are accepted/saved.
position, or briefl y touch the shutter
Page 23
ISO SENSITIVITY
1
The ISO setting covers a range of ISO 200 – 6400 in
⁄3 ISO increments, and thus enables you to adapt the shutter speed/aperture
values to the relevant situation as required. The setting disc with
detent positions on the back of the camera is used for this. Turn it
so that the index point is opposite the desired value on the scale.
Note:
Particularly at high ISO values and when editing pictures, noise as
well as vertical and horizontal stripes may become visible, especially in large, uniformly bright areas of the subject.
PERMANENT CAMERA SETTINGS
This camera saves the picture data in compressed loss-free DNG
format. White balance is automatic.
EN
Camera operation
77
Page 24
EN
22:45 PM 22.02.2012
999-9000
8234/999912MP
2.8F1/800012500ISO EV
INFO
BRIGHT-LINE VIEW AND RANGE FINDER
The camera’s bright-line view and range fi nder is not only a very
high-quality, large, brilliant and bright viewfi nder, it is also a highly
accurate range fi nder coupled to the lens. It has a magnifi cation
factor of 0.68x. The bright-line frames are lit in white by LEDs.
The bright-line frames are linked to the range setting to ensure that
the parallax - the off set between the lens and the viewfi nder axis is automatically compensated. At a range of below 2m the sensor
detects slightly less than shown by the inner edges of the bright-
Camera operation
line frame, and slightly more at longer ranges (see adjacent diagram). These slight variations, which are hardly ever critical in practice, are due to the operating principle.
Bright-line frames on a viewfi nder camera must be matched to the
image angle of the relevant lens focal lengths. However, the nominal image angles change slightly when focusing due to the changing extension, i.e. the distance between the optical system and the
sensor plane. If the set range is less than infi nity (and the extension correspondingly greater), the actual image angle is smaller the lens captures less of the subject. In addition, the diff erences in
the image angle tend to be greater at longer focal lengths, as a
result of the greater extension.
In the middle of the viewfi nder image is the square range metering
image, which is brighter than the surrounding image fi eld.
If the exposure meter is turned on, the exposure meter LEDs and
the fl ash symbol LED appear at the lower edge of the viewfi nder
image. For more details about setting the range and exposure
metering, as well as fl ash mode, refer to the relevant sections on p.
80/82/86.
B
A
All pictures and bright-line frame positions relative to 50mm focal length
A
B
Set to 0.7m:The sensor detects approx. one frame width less.
Set to 2m:The sensor detects exactly the image fi eld shown by the inner
Set to infi nity:The sensor detects approx. 1 or 4 (vertical or horizontal)
Bright-line frame
Actual image fi eld
edges of the bright-line frame.
frame width(s) more.
78
Page 25
IMAGE FIELD SELECTOR
22:45 PM 22.02.2012
999-9000
8234/999912MP
2.8F1/800012500ISO EV
INFO
22:45 PM 22.02.2012
999-9000
8234/999912MP
2.8F1/800012500ISO EV
INFO
22:45 PM 22.02.2012
999-9000
8234/999912MP
2.8F1/800012500ISO EV
INFO
The image fi eld selector extends the possibilities of this built-in
universal viewfi nder: at any time, you can view frames that do not
belong to the current lens. You can then see immediately if, for
image composition reasons, it would be better to photograph the
relevant subject using a diff erent focal length.
If the lever is rotated outwards, i.e. away from the lens, the image
fi eld limits for 35 and 135mm focal length are shown.
If the lever is rotated to the vertical, centered position, the image
fi eld limits for 50 and 75mm focal length are shown. If the lever is
rotated inward, i.e. toward the lens, the image fi eld limits for 28
and 90mm focal length are shown.
35mm + 135mm
50mm + 75mm
28mm + 90mm
EN
Camera operation
79
Page 26
EN
RANGE MEASUREMENT
Due to its large effective metering basis, the range finder on this
camera is very precise. The benefits of this are particularly noticeable when using wide-angle lenses with their relatively high depth
of field.
Superimposed image method
In a portrait, for example, aim the metering field at the eye and turn
the distance setting ring on the lens until the contours in the
metering field are brought into line. Then choose the subject detail.
Picture mode
80
Mechanical metering basis
(Distance between the optical
axes of the viewfinder window
x Viewfinder
zoom
= Effective
metering
basis
and the range finder viewing
window)
69.25mmx 0.68= approx.
47.1mm
The range finder metering field is visible as a bright, sharply defined
rectangle in the center of the viewfinder. The focus can be set
using either the superimposed image or split image method:
Out of focusIn focus
Page 27
Split image method
When taking photographs of architecture, for example, aim the
range finder metering field at the vertical edge or another clearly
defined vertical line and turn the distance setting ring on the lens
until the contours of the edge or line can be seen at the limits of
the metering field with no misalignment. Then choose the subject
detail.
EN
Picture mode
Out of focusIn focus
81
Page 28
EN
Picture mode
EXPOSURE METERING
In this camera, the exposure is metered for the available ambient
light though the lens with the working aperture with strong center
weighting. The light reflected by a bright shutter diaphragm blade
in the first shutter curtain is measured. The time/aperture combinations suitable for the correct exposure are indicated by the
viewfinder displays or identified with their help.
In aperture priority mode, the aperture is selected manually, however the camera forms the shutter speed automatically. In this
mode a digital LED display provides information on the shutter
speed to be used (e.g.
1000)
A light balance (▸▯◂) comprising three red LEDs is used to adjust
the exposure for manual settings. If the setting is right, only the
central, circular LED lights up.
Turning the exposure meter on/off
The exposure meter is switched on by lightly pressing the shutter
release button down to its 1st pressure point, provided that the
camera is switched on with the main switch and the shutter speed
dial is not set to B. The readiness of the exposure meter is signaled
by the constant lighting of one of the displays in the viewfinder:
– in aperture priority mode the digital LED display of the shutter
speed,
– and in manual mode one of the two triangular LEDs lights up,
either individually or in conjunction with the center circular LED.
If you let go of the shutter release button without activating the
shutter, the exposure meter remains turned on for around 12s
more, and the relevant LED(s) remain lit for the same time. If the
shutter speed setting dial is set to
B, the exposure meter is dis-
abled.
Notes:
• When the displays have gone out, the camera is in a "stand-by"
mode.
• In very low ambient light, i.e. at the limits of the exposure meter,
it can take around 0.2s until the LEDs light up.
• In aperture priority mode, if correct exposure cannot be
achieved using the available shutter speeds, the shutter speed
display gives a warning by flashing (for more details, refer to the
"Aperture priority mode" section on p. 83).
• If the exposure meter reading is below its working range in very
low lighting conditions and in manual mode, the left hand triangular LED flashes as a warning. In aperture priority mode, the
shutter speed is still displayed. If the required shutter speed falls
below the slowest possible setting of 60s, this display also
flashes.
• If the camera is out of use for an extended period or is stored in
a case, always turn it off at the main switch. This prevents any
power consumption, including that which continues to occur in
standby mode after the exposure meter is turned off automatically and the display is extinguished. This also prevents pictures
from being taken accidentally.
The appropriate shutter speed for correct exposure, or the variation from a correct exposure setting, are specified or determined
using displays in the viewfinder (see following sections).
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EXPOSURE MODES
The camera provides two exposure modes: Aperture priority mode
and manual mode. Depending on the subject, situation and your
individual preferences, you can thus choose between
– the familiar “semi automatic” operation, or
– setting a fixed shutter speed and aperture.
APERTURE PRIORITY
If the shutter speed thumbwheel is in the
A position, the electronics
within the camera generates the exposure time automatically and
continuously in the range of
1
/4000s to 60s, in accordance with the
film speed setting, the metered brightness and the manually selected
aperture. The calculated shutter speed is displayed in half steps to
provide a better overview.
For shutter speeds slower than 2s the remaining exposure time is
counted down and displayed in seconds after the shutter release.
The actually generated and continuously controlled exposure time
can however vary from the half step value displayed: For example, if
the display shows
16 (the closest value) before releasing the shutter,
but the calculated exposure time is longer, the countdown after
releasing the shutter may actually start from
19.
Under extreme lighting conditions, based on all the parameters the
exposure meter may generate a shutter that is outside the working
range, i.e. brightness values that would require shorter exposures
1
than
⁄4000s or longer than 60s. In such cases the specified minimum
or maximum shutter speed is nevertheless used, and these values
flash in the viewfinder as a warning.
Notes:
• As described in connection with the ISO setting on p. 77, a
certain amount of noise becomes apparent when using higher
sensitivities, and particularly with uniform dark surfaces. To
reduce this annoying phenomenon, after pictures with slow
shutter speeds and high ISO values the camera automatically
takes a second “black picture” (taken with the shutter closed).
The noise present in this parallel picture is then digitally “subtracted” from the data for the real picture. This doubling of the
“exposure” time can be significant at longer exposure times, and
must be allowed for. During this time the camera should not be
turned off.
• If you want a darker or brighter reproduction of the subject, it is
recommended to set the exposure manually (see p. 84).
EN
Picture mode
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EN
Picture mode
EXPOSURE LOCK
For compositional reasons, the most important part of the subject
is often not in the center of the picture, and as a result such important parts of the subject may be excessively light or dark. Centerweighted metering, however, records only an area in the center of
the image and is calibrated to an average gray scale value.
Subjects and situations of this type can be overcome very easily
even in aperture priority mode, using exposure lock.
Using the function
1. Aim at the important subject detail or alternatively at another
detail with average brightness.
2. Press the shutter release button down to the 1st pressure
point for measurement and saving. As long as the pressure
point is held, a small red dot appears in the viewfinder at the
top in the digits line for confirmation, and the exposure time no
longer changes even if the lighting conditions are different.
3. Keeping the shutter release pressed, move the camera to
capture the final trimming,
4. The shutter can then be released using the exposure originally
determined.
Changing the aperture setting after using exposure lock has no
effect on the shutter speed, and will lead to an incorrect exposure.
Exposure lock is canceled when you remove your finger from the
shutter release pressure point.
EXPOSURE COMPENSATION
Exposure meters are calibrated to a gray scale value, which corresponds to the brightness of a normal, i.e. average photographic
subject. If the actual subject detail does not match this assumption, an appropriate exposure compensation can be performed.
Particularly when taking several pictures in succession, for
instance if for any reason a series of pictures is taken deliberately
using slight under or overexposure, exposure compensation is a
very useful function: In contrast to exposure lock, once set it
remains effective until it is reset. Exposure compensation can be
set in the range ±3EV in
1
⁄3 EV steps (EV: Exposure Value).
1. Turn on the camera
2. Keep the function button pressed down and turn the thumbwheel
• During setting, the digital display in the viewfinder shows the
relevant value. Even after the shutter release button has
been lightly pressed, it appears for a short time.
MANUAL EXPOSURE SETTING
If the exposure setting is performed entirely manually, the shutter
speed dial must be clicked to one of the engraved exposure times
or to one of the intermediate values.
Then:
1. Turn on the exposure meter, and
2. turn the shutter speed dial and /or the aperture setting ring on
the lens – in each case in the direction indicated by the triangular LED that is lit up – until only the circular LED is lit up.
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As well as the direction of rotation of the shutter speed thumbwheel and aperture setting ring necessary for correct exposure,
the three LEDs in the light balance also indicate underexposure,
overexposure and correct exposure in the following way:
Underexposure by at least one aperture stop; turning to the
right is required
Underexposure by at most half an aperture stop; turning to
the right is required
Correct exposure
Overexposure by at most half an aperture stop; turning to
the left is required
Overexposure by at least one aperture stop; turning to the
left is required
Note:
For shutter speeds slower than 2s the remaining exposure time is
counted down and displayed in seconds after the shutter release.
THE
B SETTING
B setting, the shutter remains open for as long as the
With the
shutter release button is held down (up to a maximum of 60s;
depending on the ISO setting).
The exposure meter is disabled; however the digital display in the
viewfinder counts the elapsed exposure time in seconds, for guidance.
Notes:
• Long exposure times can be associated with very heavy picture
noise.
• To reduce this annoying phenomenon, following exposures with
slower shutter speeds (below approx.
1
⁄30s) this camera automatically takes a second "black picture" (with the shutter closed). The
noise present in this parallel picture is then digitally “subtracted”
from the data for the real picture.
• This doubling of the “exposure” time can be significant at longer
exposure times, and must be allowed for. During this time the
camera should not be turned off.
VALUES ABOVE AND BELOW THE METERING RANGE
If the exposure meter reading is below its working range in very low
lighting conditions and in manual mode, the left hand triangular
LED (
) flashes as a warning in the viewfinder, while the right hand
LED (
) does the same if there is too much light. In aperture
priority mode, the shutter speed is still displayed. If the required
shutter speed is more than the slowest possible 60s or less than
the fastest possible of
1
/
s, these displays also flash. As the
4000
exposure is metered with the working aperture, this situation can
come about by stopping down the lens. Even if you are below the
metering range, the exposure meter remains on for around 30s
after you let go of the shutter release button. If the lighting conditions improve in this time (e.g. through a change in the subject
detail or opening of the aperture), the LED display changes from
flashing to continuously lit, indicating that the meter is ready.
EN
Picture mode
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EN
Picture mode
FLASH MODE
The camera determines the necessary flash power by firing one or
more ranging flashes, fractions of a second before taking the
actual picture. Immediately after this, at the start of exposure, the
main flash is fired. All factors that influence the exposure (such as
picture filter and changes to the aperture setting) are automatically
taken into account.
COMPATIBLE FLASH UNITS
The following flash units, when used on the camera, are capable of
all the functions described in this manual, including TTL flash
metering:
• Leica system flash units, such as the models SF 40, SF 64, SF
26, SF 58.
• Flash units that satisfy the technical requirements for a System
3000 System Camera Adaption (SCA), are fitted with the SCA3502-M52 adapter.
Other commercially available flash attachments with standard flash
foot and positive center contact, and fired by the center contact (X
contact) can also be used.
ATTACHING THE FLASH UNIT
Before attaching a flash unit to the accessory shoe on the camera,
– the cover that protects the accessory shoe when not in use,
must be detached to the rear, and
– the camera and flash unit must be turned off.
When attaching a flash unit, you should ensure that the foot of the
flash unit is fully inserted into the accessory shoe and the clamping
nut is tightened to prevent it accidentally falling out. This is particularly important for flash units with additional control and signal
contacts, because if the position in the accessory shoe changes
the necessary contacts can be broken, leading to malfunctions.
Note:
If the accessory shoe is not in use, the relevant cover (supplied)
should always be in place.
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FLASH EXPOSURE CONTROL
Fully automatic flash mode, i.e. controlled by the camera, is available on the camera with the system-compatible flash units listed in
the previous section, and in aperture priority
A and manual expo-
sure modes.
In addition, automatic illumination control is operational in both
exposure modes. This means that in order to ensure a balanced
relationship between flash and other lighting at all times, the flash
power is reduced by up to 1
2
⁄3EV as ambient brightness increases.
However, if the ambient brightness plus even the shortest possible
flash sync time of
1
⁄180s would cause overexposure, a non-HSS
compatible flash unit will not be fired in aperture priority mode (for
details on HSS operation, see p. 89). In such cases the shutter
speed is governed by the ambient brightness and is shown in the
viewfinder.
In addition, the camera transfers the set sensitivity to the flash
unit. This allows the flash unit, provided it has received such information and the aperture manually set on the lens is also input to
the flash unit, automatically to adjust its range values accordingly.
With system compatible flash units, the sensitivity setting cannot
be influenced from the flash unit as it is transferred from the
camera.
Notes:
• Studio flash systems may have a very long burning time. Therefore, when using them it may be useful to select a slower shutter
speed than
1
⁄180s.
• The same applies to radio controlled flash triggers for
"unchained flash", as the radio transmission can cause a delay.
• The following sections describe only those settings and functions that are available when using this camera with systemcompatible flash units.
• More details of flash use, in particular for other flash units not
specially adapted to this camera and for different flash modes,
can be found in the relevant manuals.
EN
Picture mode
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EN
Picture mode
Settings for camera-controlled automatic flash mode
When the flash unit used has been switched on and set to the
appropriate mode for TTL flash exposure control (see flash manual), exposure metering must be carried out on the camera:
1. before taking each flash picture by gently pressing the shutter
release, so that the display in the viewfinder shows the shutter
speed or switches to the light balance. If this stage is missed
out by fully depressing the shutter release in one quick movement, the flash unit will not fire even if required.
2. The shutter speed dial must be set to
1
speed (
⁄180s), or to a slower shutter speed (including B). In
A, to the flash sync
aperture priority mode, the camera determines the shutter
speed in line with the ambient light, but limits slow shutter
speeds in line with the 1/focal length rule to reduce blurring.
3. The desired aperture, or the aperture required for the relevant
distance to the subject, must be set.
Note:
If the utomatically controlled or manually set shutter speed is faster
1
than
⁄180s, the flash is not fired unless the flash unit is HSS-compat-
ible (see p. 89).
Flash exposure displays in the viewfinder with system-compatible flash units
A flash-shaped LED appears in the viewfinder as confirmation and to
display the various operating conditions. This LED appears together
with the displays for exposure metering for the ambient light level,
described in the relevant sections.
In automatic flash mode
(flash unit set to GNC or TTL)
•
does not appear despite the flash unit being switched on and
ready for use:
A faster shutter speed than
1
/
s is set manually on the camera
180
and the connected flash unit is not HSS-compatible. In such
cases the camera will not fire the flash unit even though it is
switched on and ready for use.
•
flashes slowly (at 2Hz) before the picture is taken:
The flash unit is not yet ready to use
•
is lit up before the picture is taken:
The flash unit is ready for use
•
remains continuously lit after taking the picture, and the other
displays go out:
The flash is still ready to use.
•
flashes rapidly after taking the picture (at 4Hz), and the other
displays go out:
It is not yet ready to use again.
•
goes out after taking the picture, together with the other
displays:
Underexposure, perhaps due to the choice of too small an
aperture stop for the subject.
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Page 35
When the flash unit is set to camera control (A) or manual
mode (M)
•
does not appear despite the flash unit being switched on and
ready for use:
An exposure time shorter than
1
/180s has been set manually on
the camera. In such cases the camera will not fire the flash unit
even though it is switched on and ready for use.
•
flashes slowly (at 2Hz) before the picture is taken:
The flash unit is not yet ready for use.
•
is lit up before the picture is taken:
The flash unit is ready for use.
LINEAR FLASH MODE (HIGH SPEED SYNCHRONIZATION)
Fully automatic, i.e. camera controlled, linear flash operation is
available with this camera when using correspondingly equipped
Leica system flash units, with all shutter speeds and in aperture
priority and manual exposure modes. The camera activates it
automatically if the selected or calculated shutter speed is faster
than the sync speed of
1
⁄180s. If the flash unit is set correctly, this
change does not require the photographer to do anything else.
Important:
The range for HSS flash is significantly lower than for TTL flash.
Notes:
• Manual exposure control also allows any shutter speed up to the
sync speed of
• If shutter speeds faster than
1
/180s to be set.
1
⁄180s are used, the flash unit auto-
matically switched to HSS mode.
EN
Picture mode
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Page 36
EN
MISCELLANEOUS
TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS WITH THE SELF-TIMER
You can use the self-timer to take a picture with a delay of 12s. In
such cases we recommend that the camera is placed on a tripod.
Setting and using the function
Miscellaneous
1. Turn the main switch to
2. To start the delay time, press the shutter release button to the
During the delay time, it can be restarted by touching the shutter
release button again or the function can be canceled by turning the
main switch out of the
.
2nd pressure point (see p. 74)
• The LED 7 on the front of the camera flashes for the first
10s to show the progress of the delay time.
position.
REVIEW
Your photos are played back on your computer. You need one with
an integrated or connected card reader.
TRANSFERRING DATA TO A COMPUTER
You will need a card reader to transfer image data from a memory
card to a computer. This can be either an integrated card reader or
an externally connected device via USB cable.
Data structure on the memory card
The 100LEICA, 101LEICA, etc. folders can each hold up to 9999
pictures.
90
Important:
In self-timer mode, the exposure is not set by pressing the shutter
release button to the pressure point, it is set immediately before
the picture is taken.
USING RAW DATA DNG
For further image processing, you need software compatible with
the DNG (Digital Negative) format used to convert the saved raw
data to the highest quality, for example the raw data converter
®
Adobe
Photoshop® Lightroom®. It provides quality-optimized
algorithms for digital color processing, delivering exceptionally low
noise photographs with incredible resolution.
During editing, you have the option of subsequently adjusting parameters such as white balance, noise reduction, gradation, sharpness
etc. to achieve an optimum image quality.
Page 37
INSTALLING FIRMWARE UPDATES
Leica is constantly working on developing and optimizing its products. As many functions of the camera are entirely controlled by
software, some of these improvements and extended functions can be installed at a later date.
Leica provides firmware updates at irregular intervals for this
purpose. Information about any resulting changes or additions to
the details in this manual can be found on our website.
www.leica-camera.com
Procedure:
1. Turn off the camera
2. Insert the memory card in an integrated card reader, or one
connected to your computer
3. Formatting the memory card
4. Download the firmware file from our website under the link
"FIRMWARE"
5. Save the *.FW file to the highest level of the card folder structure.
6. Decompress the *.FW file if necessary
7. Remove the memory card from the card reader
8. Make sure that the camera is switched off, insert the memory
card in the camera and close the bottom cover
9. Keep the function button pressed down and then switch the
camera on
The update process begins. This can take up to 15 minutes.
Displays
Viewfinder LED
(permanently lit up)
During the procedure
UP
After an update
UP
Battery capacity too
low for update procedure
Update not possible*
bc
Err
*e.g. because the camera can't find an update file on the card
Back LED
lights up
goes out
flashes slowly
flashes quickly
EN
Miscellaneous
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EN
SYSTEM ACCESSORIES
INTERCHANGEABLE LENSES
The Leica M system provides a basis for optimum adaptation to
fast and unobtrusive photography. The range of lenses incorporates focal lengths from 16 to 135mm and light intensities up to
Accessories
1:0.95.
FILTERS
Various filter types and sizes are available for the current Leica M
lenses.
Note:
Leica UV/IR filters specially developed for use on the Leica M8
and M8.2 should not be used on the LeicaM as they can cause
color shifts at the edges of pictures, particularly when using wide
angle lenses.
MIRROR VIEWFINDER M
Mirror viewfinders are available for 18, 21, and 24mm lenses. They
feature an exceptionally compact design and a bright viewfinder
image. Bright line frames like those in the camera viewfinder are
used to select the trimming (order no. 18mm: 12 022 black,
12 023 silver/21mm: 12 024 black, 12 025 silver/24mm: 12 026
black, 12 027 silver).
UNIVERSAL WIDE ANGLE VIEWFINDER M
The Leica universal wide-angle viewfinder M is a thoroughly practical accessory. It can be used without restriction on all analog and
digital Leica M models and – just like the viewfinder in the camera
– uses a reflected bright-line frame to outline the picture area for
wide angle focal lengths 16, 18, 21, 24 and 28mm. The viewfinder
is equipped with parallax compensation and a vial (spirit level) for
exact leveling of the camera.
(Order No. 12 011)
VIEWFINDER MAGNIFIERS M 1.25x AND M 1.4x
The Leica M 1.25x and M 1.4x viewfinder magnifiers significantly
simplify picture composition when using focal lengths above
35mm. They can be used on all Leica M models and magnify the
central area of the viewfinder image. The 1.25x viewfinder magnifier gives the 0.68 x viewfinder on this camera a magnification of
0.85 x, while the 1.4 x gives 0.95 x magnification.
A security chain with snap fasteners prevents loss and can be used
to hang the viewfinder on the carrying strap’s fastening ring.
The viewfinder magnifiers are supplied in a leather bag. A loop on
the case allows the viewfinder magnifier to be stored on the camera’s carrying strap, where it is protected and ready for use.
(Order no. 12 004 M 1.25x, 12 006 M 1.4x)
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FLASH UNITS
The Leica M-D can be used with different types of
flash unit. Only system-compatible units with the proprietary
Leica interface enable camera-based, fully automatic flash exposure control. Leica offers several models with varying specifications for this.
Note:
Ensure that the accessory shoe cover is always fitted when no
accessories are in use.
CORRECTIVE LENSES
For optimum adaptation of the eye to the camera’s viewfinder, we
offer corrective lenses with the following positive or negative
diopter values (spherical): ±0.5/1/1.5/2/3.
CASES
The new M ever-ready case has been specially developed for the new
LeicaM. It protects the camera reliably during transport and can
be left connected to the camera so that the camera can be used
quickly when taking photographs.
For effective protection during intensive photography, the front of
the case can be detached and the section remaining on the camera then acts as a camera protector.
(Order No. 14 547)
For your full set of camera equipment, the classic Billingham
combination case made of waterproof fabric is also available. This
either holds two cameras and two lenses or one camera and three
lenses. It has enough space for even large lenses and a fitted M
hand grip. A zipped compartment also provides space for a Leica
SF 26 flash and for other accessories.
(Order no. 14 854 black, 14 855 khaki)
cables, in-car charging cord)
Mains cable for AUS and UK14 422 and 14 421
14 494
EN
Accessories/Spare parts
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Page 40
EN
Precautions and care instructions
SAFETY AND CARE INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
• Do not use your camera in the immediate vicinity of devices with
powerful magnetic, electrostatic or electromagnetic fields (e.g.
induction ovens, microwave ovens, television sets or computer
monitors, video game consoles, cell phones, radio equipment).
• If you place the camera on or very close to a television set, its
magnetic field could interfere with picture recordings.
• The same applies for use in the vicinity of cell phones.
• Strong magnetic fields, e.g. from speakers or large electric
motors, can damage the stored data or the pictures.
• Do not use the camera in the immediate vicinity of radio transmitters or high-voltage power lines. Their magnetic fields can
also interfere with picture recordings.
• If the camera malfunctions due to the effects of electromagnetic
fields, remove the battery and turn the camera on again.
• Protect the camera from contact with insect sprays and other
aggressive chemicals. Petroleum spirit, thinner and alcohol may
not be used for cleaning.
• Certain chemicals and liquids can damage the camera’s housing
or the surface finish.
• As rubber and plastics sometimes emit aggressive chemicals,
they should not remain in contact with the camera for a long
time.
• Ensure that sand and dust cannot get into the camera, e.g. on
the beach. Sand and dust can damage the camera and the
memory card. Take particular care when changing lenses and
when inserting and removing the card.
• Ensure that water cannot get into the camera, e.g. when it is
snowing or raining and on the beach. Moisture can cause malfunctions and even permanent damage to the camera and
memory card.
• Ensure that the accessory shoe cover is always fitted when no
accessories are in use (such as a flash unit).
• If salt water spray gets onto the camera, wet a soft cloth with
tap water, wring it out thoroughly and wipe the camera with it.
Then wipe down thoroughly with a dry cloth.
SENSOR
• Cosmic radiation (e.g. on flights) can cause pixel defects.
CONDENSATION MOISTURE
• If condensation has formed on or in the camera, you should turn
it off and leave it to stand at room temperature for around an
hour. Once the camera temperature has adjusted to room
temperature, the condensation will disappear by itself.
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CARE INSTRUCTIONS
As any soiling also represents a growth medium for microorganisms, you should take care to keep the equipment clean.
FOR THE CAMERA
• Clean the camera only with a soft, dry cloth. Stubborn dirt
should first of all be covered with a well-thinned cleaning agent
and then wiped off with a dry cloth.
• To remove stains and fingerprints, the camera and lenses should
be wiped with a clean lint-free cloth. Tougher dirt in hard to reach
corners of the camera body can be removed with a small brush.
The shutter blades may not be touched when doing this.
• All mechanically operated bearings and sliding surfaces on your
camera are lubricated. Please remember this if you will not be
using the camera for a long period of time. To prevent the lubrication points becoming gummed up, the camera shutter should
be released a number of times every three months. It is also
recommended that you repeatedly move and use all other
controls. The range and aperture adjustment rings on the lens
should also be moved periodically.
• Take care not to scratch the sensor for the 6-bit coding in the
bayonet, or to get it dirty. Take care also that no grains of sand
or similar particles enter the fastening, where they could scratch
the bayonet. Only clean this component when dry and do not
exert any pressure on the glass cover.
FOR THE BATTERY
Rechargeable lithium ion batteries generate power through internal
chemical reactions. This reaction is influenced by ambient temperature and humidity. Very high and low temperatures shorten the
operating time and service life of the batteries.
• Always remove the battery, if you will not be using the camera
for a long period of time. Otherwise, after several weeks the
battery could become totally discharged, i.e. the voltage is
sharply reduced as the camera still consumes a small amount of
current (for saving your settings) even when it is turned off.
• Lithium ion batteries should only be stored in a partially charged
condition, i.e. not completely discharged or fully charged (in the
corresponding display). If the battery is stored for a long period
of time, it should be charged around twice a year for approximately 15 minutes to avoid a full discharge.
• Always ensure that the battery contacts are clean and freely
accessible. Whilst lithium ion batteries are proof against short
circuits, they should still be protected against contact with metal
objects such as paper clips or jewelry. A short-circuited battery
can get very hot and cause severe burns.
• If a battery is dropped, check the casing and the contacts
immediately for any damage. Using a damaged battery can
damage the camera.
• In case of noise, discoloration, deformation, overheating or leaking fluid, the battery must be removed from the camera or charger
immediately and replaced. Continued use of the battery results in
a risk of overheating, which can cause fire and/or explosion.
• In case of leaking fluid or a smell of burning, keep the battery
away from sources of heat. Leaked fluid can catch fire!
• A safety valve in the battery guarantees that any excess pressure caused by improper handling is discharged safely.
EN
Precautions and care instructions
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Page 42
EN
Precautions and care instructions
• Batteries have a limited service life. It is recommended to
replace it after around four years; this may be necessary sooner
if used in a cold environment. (You will find the battery manufacture date on its casing. Written: calender week/year(WW/YY))
• Take damaged batteries to a collection point to ensure correct
recycling.
• The batteries must not be exposed to heat or sunlight for prolonged periods, or to humidity or moisture. Likewise, the batteries may not be placed in a microwave oven or a high pressure
container as this results in a risk of fire or explosion.
FOR THE CHARGER
• If the charger is used in the vicinity of radio receivers, it can
interfere with the reception; make sure there is a distance of at
least 1m between the devices.
• When the charger is in use, it can make a noise (buzzing) – this
is quite normal and is not a malfunction.
• When it is not in use, disconnect the charger from the mains as
otherwise it uses a certain (very small) amount of power even
when no battery is inserted in it.
• Always keep the charger contacts clean, and never short circuit
them.
• The car charging cable supplied
– may only be operated with 12V electrical systems,
– may never be connected while the charger is connected to the
mains.
FOR MEMORY CARDS
• While a picture is being stored or the memory card is being read,
it may not be removed, nor may the camera be turned off or
exposed to vibrations.
• For safety, memory cards should only ever be stored in the
anti-static case supplied.
• Do not store memory cards where they will be exposed to high
temperatures, direct sunlight, magnetic fields or static discharge.
• Do not drop or bend a memory card as this can damage it and
result in loss of the stored data.
• Always remove the memory card if you will not be using the
camera for a long period of time,
• Do not touch the connections on the rear of the memory card
and keep them free of dirt, dust and moisture.
• It is recommended that the memory card be reformatted from
time to time, as fragmentation occurs when deleting, which can
block some of the memory capacity.
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CLEANING THE SENSOR
If any dust or dirt particles should adhere to the sensor cover
glass, depending on the size of the particles this can be identified
by dark spots or marks on the pictures. The camera can be
returned to Leica AG Customer Service (Address: see p. 108) for
chargeable cleaning of the sensor; this cleaning is not covered by
the warranty.
However, you can do this cleaning yourself:
1. Check whether the camera battery has a capacity of at least
60%
2. Set the main switch to
3. Firstly, keep the function button pressed down, and then press
the shutter release button.
The shutter opens, thus revealing thesensor for cleaning (if the
battery capacity is too low, the shutter will not open and the
note
bc (= Battery Capacity) appears in the viewfinder).
4. Clean:
Make sure you follow the instructions below.
5. After you have finished cleaning, turn the camera off with the
main switch. The shutter closes again after 10s.
Notes:
• Generally, To protect against ingress of dust, etc., it is important important always to have a lens or cover fitted.
• For the same reason, when changing lenses work quickly and in
an environment that is as dust-free as possible.
• As plastic parts can easily pick up a static charge and then attract
more dust, lens caps and covers made of these materials should
only be stored for short periods in pockets in clothing.
• As far as possible, cleaning of the sensor should be performed in a
dust-free environment to prevent further soiling.
• Lightly adhering dust can be blown off the sensor cover glass using
clean and, if necessary ionized gases such as air or nitrogen. It
makes sense to use a (rubber) bellows with no brush for this purpose. Special, low pressure cleaning sprays such as "Tetenal Antidust Professional" can also be used in line with their specified
usage.
• If the particles cannot be removed from the sensor in this way,
please refer the matter to Leica Customer Service.
• Preventing damage!
• To prevent damage, before switching off the camera always make
sure that no objects can prevent the shutter from closing correctly!
EN
Precautions and care instructions
97
Page 44
EN
Precautions and care instructions
Important:
• Leica Camera AG accepts no liability for damage caused by the
user when cleaning the sensor.
• Do not attempt to blow dust particles off the sensor cover glass
using your mouth; even tiny droplets of saliva can cause marks
that are difficult to remove.
• Compressed air cleaners with high gas pressure may not be
used as they can also cause damage.
• Take care to avoid touching the sensor surface with any hard
objects during inspection and cleaning.
STORAGE
• If you are not using the camera for a longer period of time, we
recommend that you:
remove the memory card (see p. 69), and
b. remove the battery (see p. 68), (after 2 months at the latest
the date and time that were entered will be lost.
• A lens works like a magnifying glass if bright sunlight shines on
the front of the camera. The camera must always be protected
from strong sunlight. Use the lens cover and keep the camera in
the shade (or immediately put it away in the case) help to prevent damage to the interior of the camera.
• Store the camera preferably in a closed and padded container
so that nothing can rub against it and it is protected from dust.
• Store the camera in a dry, adequately ventilated place, where
neither high temperatures nor high humidity will occur. When
used in humid conditions, the camera should be completely free
of all moisture before being stored away.
• Photo cases that became wet during use should be emptied to
prevent damage to your equipment caused by moisture and any
residues of leather-tanning agent that may be released.
• To prevent fungal growth during use in hot, humid tropical climates, the camera equipment should be exposed to the sun and
air as much as possible. Storage in airtight containers or cases is
recommended only if a desiccant such as silica gel is placed in
the container.
• To prevent the formation of fungus, do not store the camera in a
leather case for long periods of time.
• Note the serial numbers of your camera (engraved on the accessory shoe) and lenses, as these are extremely important in case
of loss.
98
Page 45
TROUBLESHOOTING
THE CAMERA DOES NOT RESPOND WHEN I TURN IT ON.
– Has the battery been correctly inserted?
– Does the battery have sufficient charge?
Use a charged battery.
– Has the bottom cover been correctly fitted?
THE CAMERA TURNS ITSELF OFF AGAIN AS SOON AS I TURN
IT ON.
– Does the battery have sufficient charge to operate the camera?
Charge the battery or insert a charged battery.
– Is there any condensation?
This occurs if the camera is moved from a cold place to a hot
place. In this case, wait until the condensation has evaporated.
THE CAMERA SHUTTER REFUSES TO TRIP.
– Picture data is currently being transferred to the memory card
and the back-up memory is full.
– The capacity of the memory card is exhausted and the back-up
memory is full.
– No memory card has been inserted and the back-up memory is
full.
– The memory card inserted is write-protected.
– The picture numbering of the memory card inserted is used up
(in such a case, format the card outside the camera after saving
the data).
– The battery has exceeded its performance limits (capacity,
temperature, age)
– The bottom cover is not fitted.
I CANNOT SAVE THE PICTURE.
– Is a memory card inserted?
– The capacity of the memory card is full.
THE DATE AND TIME DISPLAYS SHOW INCORRECT VALUES
OR ARE BLANK.
– The camera has not been used for a long period, particularly if
the battery has been removed.
Insert a fully charged battery.
Set the date and time.
EN
Malfunctions and their resolution
99
Page 46
EN
Viewfinder displays
APPENDIX
VIEWFINDER DISPLAYS
1
2
3
100
Page 47
1. Bright line frame for 50mm and 75mm1 (example)
2. Metering field for distance setting
1
3. LEDs
(Light Emitting Diodes) for:
Four-digit digital display with dots above and below
Digital display:
– Display of the automatically determined shutter speed for
aperture priority A, or for counting down shutter speeds
slower than 1s
– Display of the exposure compensation set (when the
shutter release button is pressed to the 1st pressure
point)
– Warning that the metering or setting ranges are over-
shot or undershot using aperture priority A
– Display of the time/date (only during setting)
– Indicates that the back-up memory is (temporarily) full
– Indicates that the memory card is not inserted, dam-
aged or write-protected (
Sd), or the maximum number
of pictures has been reached or the bottom cover is not
fitted
– Indicates that the memory card is full (
Full)
– Indicates that there is insufficient battery capacity (
– Indicates that the firmware update is taking place or has
completed (
– Firmware update not possible (
UP)
Err)
bc)
b. • Dot above:
– Indicates (when lit) that saved metering values are being
used
– Indicates date display (only during setting)
– Indicates display of the battery capacity (after switching
on the camera or in conjunction with the function
button)
c. • Dot below:
– Indicates (flashing) that exposure compensation is being
used
– Indicates time display (only during setting)
triangular LEDs and one circular LED:
– For manual exposure setting: Together as a light bal-
ance for exposure compensation. The triangular LEDs
give the direction of rotation of the aperture setting ring
and shutter speed thumbwheel to adjust the exposure.
– Warning of values below the metering range
d.
Flash symbol:
– Flash ready to use
– Details of flash exposure before and after the picture
EN
Viewfinder displays
Two
1
With automatic brightness control adjusted to the ambient brightness. This automatic control
is not available for Leica M lenses with viewfinder attachments, since they cover the brightness
sensor 5 which supplies the information required for their operation. In such cases the frame
and displays always maintain a constant brightness.
Leica M-D (Typ 262), compact digital view and range finder system
camera
Lens attachment
Leica M bayonet with additional sensor for 6-bit coding
Lens system
Technical data
Leica M lenses from 16 – 135mm
Picture format/image sensor
CMOS type, active area approx. 23.9 x 35.8mm (corresponds to
usable format of analog Leica M models)
Resolution
5976 x 3992 pixels (24MP)
Data format
DNG™ (raw data), compressed loss-free, JPEG
File size
depends on subject
Buffer memory
1GB
Storage medium
SD cards up to 2GB/SDHC cards up to 32GB/SDXC cards
Exposure metering
Ambient light: Through the lens (TTL), with working aperture, flash
light: TTL metering with system-compatible, SCA-3000/2-standard
flash units
Metering principle/method
Metering the light reflected by light blades of the 1st shutter
curtain onto a measuring cell: heavily center-weighted
Metering range
At room temperature, normal humidity and ISO 200,at aperture 1.0
EV0 to EV20 at aperture 32. Flashing of the left triangular LED in
the viewfinder indicates values below the metering range
Sensitivity range
ISO 200 bis ISO 6400, can be set manually in
Exposure mode
Choice of automatic shutter speed control with manual aperture
preselection - aperture priority A, or manual shutter speed and
aperture setting
1
/3 ISO steps
104
Page 51
Flash exposure control
Flash unit attachment
Via accessory shoe with central and control contacts
Synchronization
To the 1st shutter curtain
Flash sync time
= 1/
s; slower shutter speeds can be used if sync time is not
180
met: automatic switching to TTL linear flash mode with HSS-compatible Leica system flash units
Flash exposure metering
With system-compatible flash units, control with center-weighted
TTL pre-flash metering
Flash exposure compensation
Flash units with the appropriate specifications: in all modes ±3EV
1
in
/3 EV steps
Displays in flash mode
Readiness: by means of constant lighting of the flash symbol LED in
the viewfinder, success control: by further lighting or temporary fast
flashing of the LED after the picture has been taken, underexposure display: by the LED going out temporarily
Viewfinder
Viewfinder principle
Large, bright line frame viewfinder with automatic parallax compensation
Eyepiece
Calibrated to -0.5 dpt.; corrective lenses from -3 to +3 diopter
available
Image field limiter
By activating two bright lines each: For 35 and 135mm, or for 28
and 90mm, or for 50 and 75mm; automatic switching when lens is
attached; frame color: white
Parallax compensation
The horizontal and vertical difference between the viewfinder and
lens is automatically balanced by moving the bright-line frame in
line with the relevant distance setting
Matching viewfinder and actual image
At a range setting of 2m, the bright-line frame size corresponds
exactly to the sensor size of approx. 23.9 x 35.8mm; at infinity
setting, depending on the focal length, approx. 7.3% (28mm) to
18% (135mm) more is recorded by the sensor than indicated by
the corresponding bright line frame and slightly less for shorter
distance settings than 2m
Magnification(For all lenses)
0.68 x
Large-base range finder
Split or superimposed image range finder shown as a bright field in
the center of the viewfinder image
Effective metering basis
47.1mm (mechanical measurement basis 69.25mm x viewfinder
magnification 0.68x)
Displays
Four-digit digital display with dots above and below, displays, see
p. 100
EN
Technical data
105
Page 52
EN
Shutter and shutter release
Shutter
Metal blade focal plane shutter with vertical movement
Shutter speeds
For aperture priority: (A) continuous from 60s to
manual setting: 8s bis
1
/
s in half steps,
4000
B: For long-time exposures up to max. 60s,
shutter speed for flash synchronization, HSS linear flash mode
Technical data
possible with all shutter speeds faster than
1
/
(1/
1
/
s with Leica sys-
180
tem flash units with appropriate specifications
Activation of shutter release button
By integrated motor, low noise operation
Shutter release button
Two-stage, 1. Activation of exposure metering and exposure lock
(in aperture priority mode), 2. Resolution
Turning the camera on/off
With main switch on the camera top panel, reactivation by touching
the shutter release button
s., with
4000
s): Fastest
180
Power supply
1 lithium ion rechargeable battery, nominal voltage 7.4V, capacity
1800mAh.; capacity indicated in the viewfinder, operating conditions (in camera): 0°-40°C; Model No.: BP-SCL2; Manufacturer:
PT. VARTA Microbattery, Made in Indonesia
Charger
Inputs: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz, 300mA, automatic switching, or
12V DC, 1.3A; Output: Direct current nominal 7.4V,1000mA/max.
8.25V, 1100mA; operating conditions (charging): 10°-30°C; Model
No.: BC-SCL2; Manufacturer: Guangdong PISEN Electronics Co.,
Ltd., Made in China
106
Page 53
Camera body
Material
All-metal magnesium/aluminum body, leather covering, brass top
panel and base, black lacquered finish.
Tripod thread
A ¼ (¼“) DIN stainless steel in bottom
Operating conditions
0°-40°C
Interfaces
ISO accesory shoe
Dimensions
(Width x Depth x Height) Approx. 138.6 x 42 x 80mm
Weight
Approx. 720g (with battery)
Package contents
Charger 100-240V with 2 mains cables (Euro, USA, different for
some export markets), lithium-ion rechargeable battery, carrying
strap, housing bayonet cover.
Cover for accessory shoe
EN
Technical data
107
Page 54
EN
LEICA PRODUCT SUPPORT
The Product Support Department at Leica AG can answer any technical questions relating to Leica products, including support for the
supplied software in writing, on the phone or by email.
They are also the contact point for purchasing advice and to order
instruction manuals. Alternatively, you can send us your questions
using the contact form on the Leica Camera AG homepage.
Leica Camera AG
Product Support / Software Suppor t
Am Leitz-Park 5
D-35578 Wetzlar, Germany
Telephone: +49(0)6441-2080-111 /-108
Fax: +49 (0)6441-2080-490
info@leica-camera.com / software-support@leica-camera.com
LEICA CUSTOMER CARE
The Leica Camera AG Customer Care department or the repair
service provided by authorized Leica agents in your country are
available for service, maintenance and repairs of your Leica equipment (see the warranty card for a list of addresses).
Leica Camera AG
Customer Care
Am Leitz-Park 5
D-35578 Wetzlar, Germany
Telephone: +49 (0)6441-2080-189
Fax: +49 (0)6441-2080-339
customer.care@leica-camera.com
108
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