Minolta X-700 User Manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

MINOLTA

X-700

Before using your camera for the first time, study this manual carefully all the way through — or at least all the sections covering your photographic needs. As you read, attach a lens, load batteries, turn the main switch on, and handle your X-700 to acquaint yourself with its parts and features. Then load it with film and proceed to actual picture taking. In this way you can take good photos and begin to realize the broad potential of your X-700 right from the start.

To obtain many years of service from your X-700, be sure to read and follow the precautions given on page 8 and elsewhere. Keep this manual for reference later as necessary.

Your Minolta X-700, the state-of-the-art SLR camera at the center of the Minolta Program System, offers you the focus-and-shoot simplicity of programmed auto-exposure (AE) control: Both aperture and shutter speed are automatically set over a wide range by the camera, with continuous viewfinder LED readout of speeds being set. The program is designed to maintain fastest practicable speeds as light dims, then give audible beeps, if

desired, to guard against blur from subject/camera-movement, making the X-700 ideal if you're starting out in photography or if you want full program automation for ease of use or fast-breaking action.

The X-700's aperture-priority AE mode lets you control the depth of field but still maintain AE control of stepless shutter speeds fine-tuned for proper exposure with light metered up to the instant of exposure. This mode is excellent for AE photography with the wide range of Minolta SLR system lenses and accessories available, including mirror lenses and close-up bellows — not possible with shutter-priority AE systems. For full

creative flexibility, aperture and shutter can be set independently in any combination in the X-700's metered/full-manual mode.

Other handy features of your X-700 include: touch-switch metering that keeps the LEDs on for 15 seconds after you first touch the operating button; AE lock for holding adjusted-framing meter readings;+/— 2EV stops' exposure adjustment with LED indicator in finder; self-timer with triple-rate visual/audible indications; flash-ready and Flash Distance Checker (FDC) indications in finder; split-image microprism spot and Acute Matte focusing screen; integral front and back grips for surer holding; Safe Load Signal;

and a new easy-load take-up spool.

A programmed autoflash, multi-function back, and quartz data back (see pages 53 to

55) complete the Minolta Program System; also available are a new wireless controller, a motor drive and auto winder, and a broad range of other SLR system accessories.

CONTENTS

NAMES OF PARTS/MAIN FEATURES . ..

TAKING CARE OF YOUR X-700

Strap and case

PREPARING TO TAKE PICTURES

MOUNTING AND CARE OF LENSES

Body and lens caps

Attaching and removing lenses

Care of glass surfaces

BATTERIES AND POWER

Batteries

Main switch Operating button

Automatic battery check and shutter lock ....

Battery holder

Cold-weather operation

FILM AND FILM SPEED LOADING AND ADVANCING FILM

Loading film

Film-advance lever Safe Load Signal/Frame counter

REWINDING AND UNLOADING FILM

10 10 10 11

11 12 12 13 14 14 15 15 16 17

17 20 20 21

TAKING PICTURES WITH YOUR

8 9

X-700

Pre shooting check

EXPOSURE CONTROL WITH THE X-700 ......

Summary of modes Mode/shutter-speed selector and

P/A-lock release Minimum-aperture lock Eyepiece cap PROGRAMMED AUTO-EXPOSURE

MODE (P mode) FUNDAMENTALS OF EXPOSURE COUPLED RANGES AND PROGRAM

GRAPH

LENS AND MODE COMBINATIONS

APERTURE-PRIORITY AUTO-

EXPOSURE MODE (A mode) METERING WITH THE X-700 AE LOCK EXPOSURE-ADJUSTMENT CONTROL

WHEN TO USE AE LOCK AND

EXPOSURE-ADJUSTMENT CONTROL ...

23 23 24

25 25 25

26 28

30 31

32 34 34 35

METERED/FULL-MANUAL EXPOSURE

MODE (M mode) Long exposures ("B" setting)

FOCUSING

Focusing aid Distance scale Film-plane index Infrared index

• DEPTH OF FIELD Preview button Depth-of-field scale

• BLUR FROM CAMERA/SUBJECT

MOVEMENT

SUPPORTING THE CAMERA AND

RELEASING THE SHUTTER

Slow-shutter-speed warning Mounting camera on tripod Self-timer Other ways of releasing shutter

38 39 40 40 41 41 41 42 43 43

45 4G 46

• CREATIVE CONTROL OF APERTURE AND SHUTTER SPEED

FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

48 50

ACCESSORIES (Minolta Program

System) TECHNICAL DETAILS STORAGE

• : Supplemental information on fundamentals of photography given in boxes

53 58 61

NAMES OF PARTS/MAIN FEATURES

Exposure-adjustment control

2 EV stops continuous adjustment over or under normal exposure, with LED indicator in viewfinder

Mode/shutter-speed selector

P: Programmed AE A: Aperture-priority AE

1 -1000: Stepped shutter speeds

for metered/full manual

B: Long ("bulb") exposures

Operating button

"Soft touch" electromagnetic release; locks when battery power too low "Touch switch" metering with 15-sec. hold of LED display

Back-cover release knob-

Rewind crank

Film-speed ring-

Film-speed window

Exposure-adjustment control

release

Main switch

Flash/camera-control contacts

For dedicated programmed autoflash and X-series autoflashes

Sync contact

Safe Load Signal

Monitors correct film advance

Frame counter

P/A-lock release

Film-advance lever

Smooth 130" advance stroke after 30' unengaged movement

Main-switch position indicator

OFF, ON, ON (audible slow-

shutter-speed warning and selftimer beeps)

AE lock/self-timer switch

• AE lock for holding close-up or adjusted-viewing meter readings

• Electronic self-timer with triple-rate blinking LED and optional audible beeps

Front grip

Integral front and back grips giving camera surer hold

MD coupler

MC coupler

Lens-mounting index

Lens-release button

Mirror

Specially coated to make

viewfinder 11 % brighter

Strap eyelet

Shutter-release socket

Sync terminal

Bayonet lens mount

New integrally lubricated stainlesssteel mount offers greater durability and smoother lens changing; accepts virtually all Minolta SLR interchangeable lenses and acces-

sories

Not visible:

• Silicon photocell atop pentaprism for full-aperture metering for viewfinder LED display, and for "final check" stop-down metering

Diaphragm-control lever Preview button

Easy-to-use spring-loaded

button for previewing

depth of field

• Second silicon photocell in mirror compartment for Direct Autoflash Metering with PXseries Auto Electroflashes

Mode indicators

M: Metered manual

A: Aperture-priority AE P: Programmed AE

(blinks if lens not set at minimum aperture

or non-MD lens in use

Over-range LED

Shutter-speed scale/LEDs

• LED indicates stepless speed set by camera in P and A modes

• LED indicates stepped speed recommended in M mode

• "60" LED blinks at 2Hz as flash-ready indicator with PX- and X-series Auto Electroflashes

• "60" LED blinks at 8Hz as flash-distance checker (FDC)

with PX-series Auto Electroflashes

Focusing grip Distance scale Depth-of-field scale Aperture ring/scale Mounting index Minimum-aperture lock

Prevents accidental movement of aperture ring in P mode

Diaphragm-control pin

Under range LED Exposure-adjustment LED Aperture setting Focusing screen

Split-image spot, microprism band, and Acute Matte field; exchangeable with eight other screens at authorized Minolta service facilities

Lens shown: 50mm f/1.7 MD

Back-cover release knob Film-cartridge chamber

Shutter curtain

Horizontal-traverse focal-plane

type Sprocket Take-up spool Pressure plate Eyepiece frame/eyepiece Memo holder ISO (DIN-ASA) table Back grip

Battery-chamber cover Tripod socket

Rewind release

Accessory connections:

Contact terminals for camera control by Multi-Function Back and data-imprint control with Multi-Function Back or Quartz Data Back 1 Motor-drive guide socket

Motor-drive contacts Winder contact Winder/motordrive coupler Winder/motordrive guide

socket

TAKING CARE OF YOUR X-700

Your Minolta X-700 is a high-precision instrument designed to give many years of trouble-free picture taking if used and cared for properly. The precautions you should follow for keeping the camera in good operating condition are given below and at various places throughout the text.

• Always keep your camera in its case with the lens capped when not in use, or with a body cap on when a lens is not attached.

• No part of the X-700 should be forced at any time. If operation is not as you think it should be, carefully restudy the applicable instructions or consult an authorized Minolta service facility.

• Never subject your camera to shock, high heat and/or humidity, water, or harmful chemicals. Be particularly careful not to leave it in the glove compartment or other places in motor vehicles where it may be subject to high temperatures.

• Never lubricate any part of the body or lens.

• Never touch the shutter curtains or the front inside

part of the body with fingers or other objects or blow against them, as doing so might damage the alignment and movement of either the curtains or mirror.

• External camera and lens barrel — but not glass — surfaces should be wiped with a soft, silicone-treated cloth now and then, especially after using the camera near salt water.

• It is recommended to have your camera cleaned once per year at an authorized Minolta service facility.

Lens-care instructions are given on pages 10 and 11.

If you will not be using your camera for an extended period, see the storage instructions at the back of the manual.

If you have questions concerning operation of your camera or about photography, feel free to contact your local Minolta agent or distributor by writing one of the offices listed inside the back cover.

CAUTION

• Before using lenses, flashes, or other accessories made by companies other than Minolta, attach them to the camera to make sure they function properly and take test photographs if necessary.

Strap and case

The strap (provided with camera) and case (sold separately) should be attached as shown to keep your

camera handy for use and to pro-

tect it from being dropped or

bumped.

NOTE

• The protective plastic film on the camera's base can be removed if

desired.

Eyepiece cap

Battery

holder

Shoulder pad

PREPARING TO TAKE PICTURES

The next four sections cover

things you must do to prepare your

camera for taking pictures:

• Attach lens (at right).

• Insert batteries and turn main switch on (pp. 12 and 13).

• Set film speed (p. 16).

• Load camera with film (pp. 17 to 20).

You must always install batteries properly and turn on the main switch before loading film; the

order of other steps may vary.

Instructions for rewinding and

unloading film are also given in this part. We recommend reading them before starting to use your camera, so that you will be sure what to do when you come to the end of the

film.

MOUNTING AND CARE OF LENSES

Body and lens caps

Remove body and lens caps as

shown above.

CAUTIONS

• Always cap the rear end of the lens and the lens mount of the camera when the lens is not attached, and the front of the lens when the camera is not in use.

• To prevent damage to the control pins, never set a lens with its rear end down unless a rear lens cap is on.

• If it is necessary to set an uncapped lens with its front end down, do so on a smooth surface.

Fisheye lenses should always be capped before being placed front end down.

• Keep lenses, properly capped

front and rear, in their cases when

not in use.

To attach lenses

After removing the body cap and rear lens cap, align the red mounting index on the lens barrel with the red index on the camera's lens mount, insert the lens bayonet into the socket, then turn the lens clock-

wise until it locks into place with a click.

To remove lenses

While pushing the lens-release

button, turn the lens counterclock-

wise as far as it will go, then lift it

out of the mount.

CAUTION

• Be careful not to touch anything inside the camera when attaching or removing lenses.

Care of glass surfaces

• Never touch lens or eyepiece surfaces with fingers or other objects. If necessary, remove loose matter with a blower brush. Use special photographic lens tissue or a soft, clean cloth to remove smudges

or fingerprints with a gentle circular

motion. Only if absolutely necessary, the tissue may be moistened very slightly with not more than

one drop of a satisfactory quickevaporating fluid cleaner specially compounded for photographic

lenses. Such fluids must never be dropped directly on the glass sur-

face.

• Never lift the mirror or touch its

surface, as doing so might damage

the alignment. Small smudges or

fingerprints on the mirror will not

affect the meter reading or image quality; if they are very annoying,

have the camera cleaned at an

authorized Minolta service facility.

BATTERIES AND POWER

Batteries

For operation of the X-700's circuitry and shutter, use one of the following types of batteries:

•Two 1.55v silver-oxide (SR44: Eveready S-76, EPX-76, or equiv.)

•Two 1.5v alkaline-manganese

(LR44: Eveready A-76 or equiv.)

• One 3v lithium (CR-1/3N)-See note on p. 15.

CAUTIONS

• Never use 1.35v mercury batteries (MR44: Eveready EPX-675 or

equiv.), which have a similar shape and size.

• To avoid battery leakage or bursting, do not mix batteries of different

types, brands, or ages.

• Used batteries should not be disposed of in fire.

WARNING: Keep batteries away

from young children.

1. Unscrew counterclockwise and remove the battery-chamber cover on the camera bottom.

2. After wiping the terminals with a clean, dry cloth, hold the batteries by their edges and insert them plus (+) side out into the sleeve on the inside of the cover.

Main switch

For the camera's circuitry and shutter to operate, the main switch must be set at either "ON" or "ON ". The latter position should be used when you want audible beeps during self-timer operation or an audible warning whenever the shutter speed set or recommended by the camera is 1/30 sec. or slower.

(For the slow-shutter-speed warning to function, the operating button must be touched or slightly pressed.)

To prevent accidental exposures and battery drain, move the main switch to "OFF" when you are done taking pictures. (When the switch is left on, however, battery drain occurs only if the operating button is touched, so you may want to leave it on to avoid missing unexpected shots.)

Operating button

Touching the operating button in the center of the mode/shutterspeed selector activates the camera's meter, viewfinder LED display, and exposure-control system.

If proper contact is not possible

(e.g., in cold weather, when fingers are excessively dry, or when wearing gloves), press the button slightly. The shutter is released when the

operating button is pressed all the

way down.

For easier operation of other controls while viewing through the finder, the circuits will remain on for 15 sec. after you first touch the button.

NOTE

• If the operating button becomes dirty or greasy, turn off the main switch and wipe the button with a clean, dry cloth.

Automatic battery check and shutter lock

If any LED in the viewfinder lights up when the main switch is on and the operating button is touched or slightly pressed, the batteries are inserted correctly and have sufficient power for operation of the camera.

When battery power decreases to a point almost insufficient for camera operation, the LED display will no longer light up, serving as a warning to insert fresh batteries as soon as possible. When battery capacity is no longer sufficient, the shutter will not operate.

Cold-weather operation

Since batteries tend to lose power as they become colder, always use fresh batteries and keep a spare set with you when using your camera in cold weather. For prolonged cold-weather use (approx. O°C or lower), silver-oxide batteries are recommended. Battery capacity will be restored as temperatures rise.

Battery holder

Fresh spare batteries can be

stored in the battery holder thread-

ed on the camera strap (p. 9). To

insert batteries, form a loop as shown above then drop them in. Slide the holder off the strap to

remove batteries.

NOTE

• If the camera is not to be used for more than two weeks, it is advisable to remove the batteries (especially old ones).

NOTE

• If a lithium battery is used below 0°C, the camera may not operate.

• Never transfer the camera directly from low to high temperatures as condensation may form inside and prevent normal operation.

FILM AND FILM SPEED

The X-700 uses standard 35mm cartridge film. If you are not already familiar with the many types available, you may want to experiment to find one or more that give pleasing results for subjects you like

to photograph or for special situations.

The ISO film speed (incorporating ASA and DIN numbers) indicates the film's sensitivity to light. The first part of the ISO number (equivalent to ASA number) is marked on the X-700's film-speed ring. Each time this number doubles

(e.g., from 25 to 50, 50 to 100), the required exposure is halved. Such a change is called one "stop".

Though selecting a high-speed

film will allow you to take pictures

when there is less light, such films

in general may produce a grainier image.

Setting film speed

Lift up on the film-speed ring and turn it until the proper ASA number appears centered in the film-speed window and locks in that position when the ring is released. Marks between numbered graduations indicate speeds shown in the table at right.

ASA

100

200

32 40

64 80

125 160

16 17

19 20

22 23

DIN 15

ASA

250 320

400

500 640

800

1000 1250

1600

DIN

27 28 29

30 31 32

CAUTION

• Film should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place before use and exposed before the expiration date printed on the box.

A handy ISO (DIN-ASA) table, with a surrounding memo holder for keeping the film-box end as a

reminder of the film type and number of exposures, is located on the camera back.

LOADING AND ADVANCING FILM

Loading film

Before opening the camera back, confirm that there is no film inside that could be damaged by light if the back is opened, by checking

that:

• No red is visible in the Safe Load Signal (see p. 20).

• Rewind crank can be freely rotated clockwise many times without pushing rewind button.

Since the frame counter advances each time the shutter is cocked even if no film is inside, the camera may be empty even when the index does not point to "S".

Prior to loading film, set the film

speed (see previous page) and turn

the main switch on (p. 13).

CAUTIONS

• Film should be handled and loaded in subdued light - at least shaded from direct sunlight by your body.

• Do not touch any parts or areas shown in blue below.

1. With the case off, pull up on the back-cover release knob until the camera back springs open. Gently blow away any dust or other particles inside with a blower brush.

NOTE

• When loading film in a dark place

or with the lens cap on, loading will

be easier if the mode selector is not

set at "P" or "A".

2. Leaving the knob pulled out, position a 35mm film cartridge as shown with the projecting spool down. Then push the knob all the way in, rotating it slightly if neces-

sary.

NOTE

• If the film-advance lever stops at the end of a full stroke during the following steps, release the shutter and continue (main switch must be on).

3. Pull out enough film leader to just reach the take-up spool, then

insert the end into a slot on the left

(as shown above), making sure it does not protrude from another slot. A hole in the film should be

lined up with the tooth on the

take-up spool, and the sprocket teeth should be engaged with holes at the bottom of the film.

If you find it easier to hold the film leader in your right hand, insert the film as shown in the

diagram above, making sure the

take-up spool tooth is properly

engaged with a hole.

4. With the film held against the sprocket by your left hand, slowly operate the film-advance lever until the film is wound firmly around the take-up spool, the sprocket teeth are engaged with holes on both edges of the film, and the slack in the film is taken up.

5. After making sure the film is taut, close the camera back by pushing in on it until it clicks shut. A red "S" should now appear opposite the index in the frame

counter.

CAUTION

• Slack should be taken up by advancing, not rewinding, the film. If you rewind the slack into the cartridge then later advance the film to "1", the first frame may have already been exposed to light.

6. Advance film, release shutter, and advance film — until the index points to "1". A red bar should

now appear at far left in the Safe

Load Signal, indicating film is loaded and advancing properly. (If it does not appear or swings far to the

right, repeat steps 3 to 6.) The camera is now ready for taking the

first picture, provided film speed is set.

Film-advance lever

To allow swinging the filmadvance lever out from the camera body so the right thumb will fit comfortably behind it, the lever has 30° of unengaged movement. As

the lever is moved an additional

130°, the film and frame counter advance. When it stops at the end of the full 160° stroke, the shutter

is cocked for the next exposure.

Safe Load Signal/Frame counter

As you continue taking pictures and advancing film, the red bar in the Safe Load Signal gradually moves to the right and the rewind crank rotates counterclockwise, indicating proper film advance.

Never force the lever when it resists further movement at the end of the film, which may be somewhat before or after the common film lengths (12, 20, 24, 36 exposures) shown in red in the frame counter. The frame counter stops advancing after 36 exposures.

REWINDING AND UNLOADING FILM

1. To rewind the film, remove the

camera's case if on, then press the

rewind release on the camera bottom.

2. Unfold the rewind crank and turn it in the direction of the arrow until the red bar in the Safe Load Signal moves out of the window to the left. Near the end you will feel tension on the film increase then completely disappear, and the crank will then turn freely.

CAUTION

• Never open the camera back

when there is any red still visible in

the Safe Load Signal.

3. When you are certain that the exposed film is completely rewound into the cartridge, pull up on the back-cover release knob to open the back, then remove the cartridge.

CAUTION

• Exposed film should be kept in a cool, dry, dark place and developed as soon as possible.

2 1

TAKING PICTURES WITH YOUR X-700

Pages 23 to 51 explain how to use your camera to take pictures. The sections in boxes give addition-

al information on some of the

fundamentals of photography.

Pre-shooting check

To make sure your camera is ready for picture taking, it is a good habit to check the items shown here.

Film speed ?

Batteries OK ?

Exposure-adjustment control ?

(+/- LED?)

(Does LED light when operating button touched or pressed ?)

Self-timer ?

P-mode settings ?

Film inside ?

Film

advanced ?

Main switch on ?

If you hold the camera as shown,

you can easily operate most con-

trols without removing it from your

eye.

LEFT HAND Thumb: focusing grip, aperture

ring, or preview button Index: focusing grip Middle: aperture ring RIGHT HAND Thumb: film-advance lever Index: main switch, mode/shutter-

speed selector (and P/A-lock release), or operating button

Middle: AE lock or minimum-aper-

ture lock

EXPOSURE CONTROL WITH THE X-700

Your X-700 can be used in any of three exposure-control modes, as summarized below and explained in more detail in the following sections.

Programmed auto-exposure (AE) mode

The X-700's P mode is ideal for general picture taking when all you want to do is compose, focus, and shoot. With the camera set at "P" and an MD lens at its minimum aperture, the X-700's program se-

lects the aperture and fastest practicable shutter speed as light dims, giving audible beeps (if desired) to guard against blur from subject/ camera movement.

Aperture-priority AE mode

When you want to control the depth of field by setting a certain aperture, or for auto-exposure con-

trol with virtually any Minolta SLR lens or accessory, use the X-700 in A mode. The camera will automati-

cally set the stepless shutter speed

to yield proper exposure for the aperture you set.

Metered/full-manual mode

The X-700's M mode can be used

when a special photographic effect requires a fixed speed, or in situations where the brightness difference between the subject area and the rest of the frame exceeds the

available range of exposure adjust-

ment in P or A mode or where the AE lock cannot be readily used.

Mode/shutter-speed selector and P/A-lock release

The mode/shutter-speed selector

can be rotated continuously in ei-

ther direction but locks at "P" and "A" to prevent accidental move-

ment. Release the selector by press-

ing the P/A-lock release, then turn it until it clicks or locks into place

at the desired position.

Minimum-aperture lock

In P mode, it is recommended to lock the lens at its minimum aperture to prevent accidental movement. To do so, line up the green f-number (f/16, f/22, or f/32, depending on lens) with the index, then pull the slider toward the

camera. To release the lock for A

mode or M mode, push the slider away from the camera body.

NOTE

• Only new-type MD lenses have the lock.

Eyepiece cap

If the shutter is released without the eyepiece being shielded by your head (such as in remote or selftimer operation, etc.) when the camera is used in P or A mode or at "B", slide the eyepiece cap onto

the frame around the eyepiece to prevent unwanted light from affect-

ing the meter reading and exposure.

The eyepiece cap can be thread-

ed on the camera strap to keep it

handy for use.

PROGRAMMED AUTO-EXPOSURE MODE (P mode)

Basic settings

Taking pictures in P mode

After you have set the camera as shown at left, it will automatically set the shutter speed and aperture for you (see program graph on

p. 30). All you need do before releasing the shutter is compose, focus, and check the viewfinder as follows:

• Is the over-range LED blinking? If so, use a neutral-density (ND)

Set mode selector at "P".

filter or reduce the light level if possible.

• Is an LED on in the danger zone for hand-holding (usually 1/30 sec. or slower — see p. 44)? Or does the slow-shutter-speed warn-

ing beep when the main switch is at "ON " and you touch the operating button? If so, use a suitable camera-support method

(p. 46) or a flash (p. 50).

Set and lock lens at minimum aperture (green figure).

USE ONLY MD LENSES

• Is an LED on or blinking outside the applicable range in the table on page 31? If so, exposure may be incorrect.

NOTES

• If the lens is not set at minimum aperture, the "P" will blink as a warning. Although exposure will still be correct unless an over- or under-range LED blinks, the program's range will be limited so that it cannot accommodate brighter subjects.

• In some situations you may want to use the AE-lock or exposureadjustment control (pp. 34 and 35).

• If your head is not shielding the eyepiece from light when the picture is taken, use the eyepiece cap (p.25).

Viewfinder shows:

Green "P" = Programmed AE mode in use

(Blinks if lens is not set at minimum aperture) Minimum aperture (green) NOT THE TAKING APERTURE Stepless shutter speed set by camera

(If two LEDs light, speed is in between.)

FUNDAMENTALS OF EXPOSURE

CAMERA COMPUTES EXPOSURE VALUE (EV)

CAMERA METERS SUBJECT BRIGHTNESS

APERTURE

FILM SPEED (Set by user)

SHUTTER SPEED

When you take a picture, light from the subject passes through the lens and open shutter, striking the film to form an image. To obtain correct exposure for the subject's brightness and film being used, the aperture (size of the diaphragm opening) and shutter speed (length of time the shutter curtain is kept open) must be controlled.

As indicated by the aperture diagram next to each f-number in the figure, large f-numbers (e.g., f/16 and f/8) represent small apertures, and small f-numbers (e.g., f/2 and f/1.4) represent large apertures. Each standard f-number setting (e.g., f/8) lets in twice as much light as the next

numerically larger one (f/11) and half as much as the next smaller one (f/5.6). This difference in exposure between standard f-numbers is called one "stop".

Shutter speeds are expressed in fractions of a second (generally the reciprocals of numbers shown on shutter-speed scales) and in seconds. Each standard shutter speed (e.g., 1/60 sec.) allows light to strike the film twice as long as the next faster one (1/125) and half as long as the next slower one (1/30). This difference between standard shutter speeds is also called one "stop".

Total exposure on the film is determined by the combination of aperture and speed. Using the next smaller f-number (i.e., giving one stop more exposure) will balance using the next faster shutter speed (i.e., giving one stop less exposure), and so on. A great range of combinations (e.g., f/5.6 at

1 /30, f/4 at 1 /60, f/2.8 at 1 /125, etc., all of which fall on the same diagonal line) will thus yield the

same total exposure.

The diagonal lines correspond to exposure values

(EV); all of the aperture/shutter-speed combinations indicated by a given line will produce the same exposure. At any specific film speed, the EV increases by one each time the subject brightness doubles, and thus the required exposure will decrease by one stop. On the other hand, when the EV is one unit lower (i.e., when the subject is only half as bright), the exposure must be increased one

stop.

The film-speed-coupled metering system of the camera measures the brightness of the subject and computes the EV needed for proper exposure, which is then used for setting the combination of aperture and shutter speed.

COUPLED RANGES AND PROGRAM GRAPH

As shown in the graph at right, the X-700's program is designed to maintain the fastest practicable

shutter speed as light dims. The graph gives you a general idea of which aperture is being set for a given LED-indicated shutter speed.

For example, if the "125" LED lights, the aperture will be approximately f/2.8 (for a 50mm f/1.4 lens, at ISO 100/21 ).

The accurate working range of shutter-speed and aperture combinations at ISO 100/21° with an f/1.4 lens is EV 1 (f/1.4, 1 sec.) to

EV 18 (f/16, 1/1000 sec). At ISO 25/15°, the range is EV -1 to 16; at ISO 400/27° it is EV 3 to 18.

The maximum EV depends on the minimum aperture of the lens: for f/16 it is EV 18; for f/22, EV

19; for f/32, EV 20.

Program for 50mm f/1.7 lens set at minimum aperture of f/22

Program for 50mm f/1.4 lens set

at minimum aperture of f/16

Program when lens is set at f/5.6 rather than minimum aperture

Programs shown for ISO 100/21°

SHUTTER SPEED

ISO

25/15° 50/18°

100/21° 200/24° 400/27°

Shutter speed 4 to 1/1000 sec. 2 to 1/1000 sec.

1 to 1/1000 sec. 1/2 to 1/1000 sec. 1/4 to 1/1000 sec.

The accurate working range of shutter speeds of the X-700 depends on the film speed, as shown

in the table. If you release the shutter when the LEDs indicate a speed outside the applicable range, exposure may be incorrect.

LENS AND MODE COMBINATIONS

The table at right shows the usable modes for various types of lenses and accessories. Because the

X-700 meters while the diaphragm is closing to obtain correct exposure in auto modes, operation may be somewhat different than stated in the lens or accessory manual. Special instructions for specific lenses and accessories are as follows:

• Only MD lenses should be used in P mode. If a non-MD lens is used, the "P" will blink as a warning that exposure may be incorrect.

• When using an Auto Rokkor lens, Auto Bellows I, or Auto Bellows III

with the X-700, you need to press

the preview button only when you

want to check the shutter speed

that will be used in A mode or the recommended shutter speed in M mode, not when you actually re-

lease the shutter. For Auto Bellows III, press the preview button on the bellows itself.

Lens or accessory MD MD plus MD 2X

Tele Converter MC Auto Rokkor Manual preset RF (mirror) CA Shift Varisoft

Mode

P A M P A M

A M A M A M

(P) A M

A M

MD or MC plus: MC2X Tele Converter

- A M

Close-up accessories

• Though RF lenses (which have a fixed aperture) can be used with the mode selector at "P", they will function in the same way as when it is at "A".

APERTURE-PRIORITY AUTO-EXPOSURE MODE (A mode

Basic settings

Taking pictures in A mode

After you have set the mode selector and desired aperture as shown at left, the camera will automatically select the stepless shutter speed needed for proper exposure. All you need do before releasing the shutter is compose, focus, and check the viewfinder as follows:

• Is the over-range LED blinking? If so, turn the aperture ring towards

Set mode selector at "A".

f/22 until the LED stops blinking.

If it does not stop, use a neutraldensity (ND) filter or reduce the light level if possible.

• Is an LED on in the danger zone for hand-holding (usually 1/30 sec. or slower — see p. 44)? Or does the slow-shutter-speed warning beep when the main switch is at "ON " and you touch the operating button? If so, turn the

aperture ring towards f/1.7 until

an LED outside the danger zone

Set lens at desired aperture.

lights. If impossible, use a suitable

camera-support method (p. 46) or a flash (p. 50).

• Is an LED on or blinking outside the applicable range from the

table on page 31? If so, exposure may be incorrect.

NOTES

• In some situations you may want to use the AE lock or exposureadjustment control (pp. 34 and 35).

• If your head is not shielding the eyepiece from light when the picture is taken, use the eyepiece cap

(p. 25).

• Almost all Minolta lenses and close-up accessories can be used in

aperture-priority AE mode. See page 31 for special instructions for some of them.

Viewfinder shows:

Red "A" = Aperture-priority AE mode in use Aperture you selected (equals taking aperture) Stepless shutter speed set by camera for that aperture

(If two LEDs light, speed is in

between.)

Selecting an aperture

In aperture-priority AE mode, your X-700 will set the precise shutter speed for proper exposure automatically. Even so, you have considerable control over results and can adjust aperture and shutter speed over considerable ranges to suit the conditions and yourself.

For good pictures with a mini-

mum of care where no particular

effect is desired, simply set the

aperture as indicated in the table.

These guide settings will provide as

much depth of field (see p. 42) as possible while producing a shutter speed fast enough to stop the motion of most subjects and guard against blur from camera movement (see p. 44).

Heavy

f/8 f/8 f/11 f/11 f/11 f/16

Hazy

Sun

f/4 f/4 f/5.6 f/8

f/8 f/11

Over-

cast

f/2 f/2.8 f/4 f/5.6 f/5.6

f/8

Indoors

f/1.4 f/1.4 f/1.4 f/2 f/2 f/2.8

ISO

25/15°

64/19° 100/21° 160/23° 200/24° 400/27°

Sunny

(These are only guidelines for typi-

cal picture-taking situations. For

additional information see p. 48).

METERING WITH THE X-700

Your X-700's center-weighted averaging meter system is designed so that light from all parts of the

viewfield (picture area) is measured by the silicon photocell but influ-

ence from a broad central area is greatest. Thus the reading should give satisfactory exposure

without adjustment as long as the main subject area occupies a

major part of the center of the frame. When it does not, you may

want to use the AE lock to take a close-up reading or the exposureadjustment control to increase or decrease exposure by up to two stops (see the two sections at right and box on pages 36 and 37).

As with most metering systems,

strong sources of direct light or

other very bright areas may adversely influence the reading if allowed to dominate the frame.

Though the X-700's viewfinder is designed to minimize the effect on the meter of light entering through the eyepiece under usual conditions, you should be careful to shield the eyepiece — especially if you wear glasses — in the following situations:

• When the subject is in shade and the camera is in sunlight

•When bright sidelight falls between eye and eyepiece

• When stop-down metering is used (p. 31)

To shield the eyepiece, use a rubber eyecup or place your thumb so that it blocks sidelight. When viewing is unnecessary, the eyepiece cap (p. 25) can be used to completely eliminate the problem.

AE LOCK

To obtain proper exposure in high-contrast lighting situations where your subject is on the edge of the frame or occupies only a small portion in the center, use the AE lock as follows:

1. Shift the camera's position so the subject fills most of the frame. For small subjects, you may need to move closer.

2. With the viewfinder LED display on, press the AE lock all the way down and hold it there; you may

then remove your finger from the operating button if desired.

3. Recompose your picture as desired.

4. Release the shutter while still holding the AE lock down.

NOTES

• Suggestions on when to use the AE lock are given on pages 36 and

37.

• The AE lock cannot be used in M mode or together with the selftimer.

• If you wish to change the settings

of film speed, exposure adjustment, mode/shutter-speed, or aperture, do so before pressing the AE lock.

• The AE lock does not operate if pressed while the motor drive is used at "Hi".

EXPOSURE-ADJUSTMENT CONTROL

To deliberately increase or decrease exposure from the normal metered value, turn the exposureadjustment control while pressing the lock release until the desired position is aligned with the index. Set minus (—) numbers to darken

exposure and plus (+) numbers to lighten exposure, as indicated in the table.

NOTES

• The control will lock at "0" and each half-stop setting, though settings between half stops can also be used.

• Be sure to return the control to ment settings.

• Both aperture and shutter speed are changed by exposure adjustment in P mode; in A mode, only shutter speed is adjusted.

two stops less =

-2

one-quarter normal exposure

one stop less =

-1

one-half normal exposure

normal exposure one stop more =

double normal exposure

two stops more =

four times normal exposure

• When the control is not at "0", the +/- LED in the viewfinder will blink to let you know exposure is being adjusted.

"0" after using exposure-adjust-

WHEN TO USE AE LOCK AND EXPOSURE

The following suggestions on when to use the AE lock or exposure-adjustment control can serve as starting points for trial; individual conditions and taste will, of course, determine what exposure you choose.

• In situations where there is a great brightness difference between the subject and background and the most important area is considerably darker than the area surrounding it, use the AE lock to lock the meter reading with the camera positioned so the subject fills most of the finder, or set the exposure-adjustment control at + 1/2 to +2 stops.

Examples are pictures with strong backlighting and

no fill-in illumination (such as photos A and B), or subjects against a background of snow or lightcolored sand, unless the bright area occupies a very

small part of the frame.

• If the most important subject area is much brighter than the rest of the picture, use the AE lock as above or set the exposure-adjustment control at —1/2 to -2 stops. Examples are subjects in a spotlight or shaft of sunlight or against a very dark background (such as photos C and D), unless the background occupies only a small area in the frame.

• When copying documents printed on white stock or on other predominantly light-colored materials, an adjustment of +1/2 to +2 stops may be

necessary. Similarly, you will probably want to make an adjustment of —1/2 to —2 stops for predominantly dark copy material, or that on a

dark background.

• When using an R60 (red) filter, adjust exposure

+ 1 stop.

A. Without AE lock or adjustment

C. Without AE lock or adjustment

B. Exposure increased

The same results can be obtained by using the AE then recomposing before releasing the shutter.

D. Exposure decreased

lock while framing the face within the rectangle,

METERED/FULL-MANUAL EXPOSURE MODE (M mode)

Basic setting

Taking a picture in M mode

To use the X-700 in metered- or full-manual mode, first release the mode/shutter-speed selector from "P" or "A" and check to see that the lens is not locked at minimum aperture.

There are two ways to use metered-manual mode:

• When you wish to use a certain shutter speed, first set the selector at any click-stop setting from 1 sec.

Set mode/shutter-speed selector at any position from "1" to "1000".

to 1/1000 sec, then turn the aperture ring until the LED next to that speed lights up.

• When you wish to use a certain aperture, first set the aperture ring, then set the stepped shutter speed according to the value recommended by the LED. If two LEDs light up, adjust the aperture ring some-

what until only one lights. Do not set the shutter-speed selector be-

tween click stops.

Number agreement can, of course, be disregarded and any shutter-speed and lens-aperture combination set for full manual operation (see p. 29).

NOTE

• In M mode, the slow-shutterspeed warning indicates that the camera-recommended setting —

NOT the actual setting - is 1/30

sec. or slower.

Viewfinder shows:

Red "M" = Manual mode in use Aperture you selected (equals taking aperture) Shutter speed recommended by camera for that aperture NOT ACTUAL SPEED SET

Long exposures ("B" setting)

When the mode/shutter-speed selector is set at "B", the shutter will open when you press the operating

button and remain open until you

release it, making exposures longer

than one second possible. A tripod

(p. 46) or other firm support

should generally be used. To avoid

jarring the camera when pressing or releasing the operating button, use a standard cable release (preferably

a lockable type for longer expo-

sures) or a Minolta electronic remote cord (p. 47). The eyepiece cap (p. 25) should be used to prevent stray light from affecting the exposure.

NOTES

• The self-timer does not operate at the "B" setting.

• With fresh batteries at moderate temperatures, the maximum long

exposure is approx. 3 hours. At lower temperatures, exposure time may be shorter. Exposures up to 6 hours long are possible by using a fresh lithium battery.

• For automatically timed long

exposures, use the accessory MultiFunction Back (p. 55).

FOCUSING

Focusing aid

The X-700's standard focusing

screen has a split-image spot sur-

rounded by a band of microprisms in the center of an Acute Matte field.

To focus the camera visually with usual lenses, look through the viewfinder and turn the focusing

ring of the lens until:

• Upper and lower subject images in the spot are exactly aligned with

no broken lines between them,

• Subject image in the band does not shimmer or appear broken up,and

• Subject image within the focusing aid appears clearest and seems to blend with that on the matte field surrounding it.

Though the most satisfactory focusing aid and method depend upon the conditions and your personal preference, the above method may provide the best results with medi-

um wideangle to medium telephoto lenses.

Generally speaking, however,

you will probably find that focus-

ing is easiest if:

•Split-image spot is used for subjects having vertical lines.

• Microprism band is used for lenses

from medium wideangle through medium telephoto, especially with subjects not having vertical lines.

• Matte field is used for longer-

focal-length lenses or for macro or other work involving considerable lens extension.

NOTE

• The X-700's standard focusing screen can be replaced at any au-

thorized Minolta service facility by

any of eight optional focusing screens (see p. 57).

In focus

Out of focus

Distance scale

You may find that in the following situations it is easier to focus by estimating the distance to your subject, then aligning the corresponding figure on the distance scale with the index:

• If you are taking long exposures

or flash pictures when it is too dark to focus through the lens

• If you want to prefocus on your

subject, such as in quickly shot candid photos

Film-plane index

The symbol beneath the filmadvance lever indicates the position occupied by the film in the camera. It can be used for measuring the

distance from subject to film when

taking close-ups, photomacrographs, and photomicrographs, where the exact distance is sometimes important.

Infrared index

For proper focus when using infrared film, first focus your subject as usual with visible light, then attach a red filter and turn the focusing ring to the right to align the point of proper focus on the distance scale with the small red dot (or red "R" on MC and oldtype MD lenses) on the depth-offield scale. Set exposure according to the film manufacturer's recommendations.

DEPTH OF FIELD

Focused distance

APERTURE

Focused distance

FOCUSED DISTANCE

The range behind and in front of the focused distance within which the image appears acceptably sharp is called the depth of field.

It extends a greater distance behind the focused distance (usually about 1/3 in front, 2/3 behind)

and is determined by three factors: the aperture,

the distance at which the lens is focused, and the focal length of the lens. As illustrated by shaded trees above, depth of field increases as the lens is

stopped down (e.g., f/1.7 to f/22) and becomes greater the farther from the camera the lens is

focused distance

FOCAL LENGTH

focused. It decreases as the lens is opened up (e.g., f/22 to f/1.7) and the closer the lens is focused. Depth of field is greater for short-focal-length lenses than for telephotos at the same focused distance and aperture. It is at its least for any given lens in normal mounting when the lens is at maximum aperture (as when metering and focusing normally with Minolta MD or MC lenses) and at minimum focusing distance.

Preview button

In A and M mode, depth of field at any focused distance and aperture can be checked visually by pushing the preview button all the way in. This will stop the diaphragm down to the aperture corresponding to the f-number set on the aperture ring, allowing you to see

through the viewfinder how much of the subject is acceptably sharp.

NOTE

• The shutter speed indicated by

LED while the preview button is pressed is NOT the actual shutter speed.

Depth-of-field scale

When the lens is focused at a given point, the image will be in satisfactory focus from the nearer value to the farther value on the distance scale indicated by the depth-of-field marks for the aperture in use. For example, if a 50mm f/1.7 lens is focused at 3m (about

10 ft.) and the aperture is f/8, the corresponding graduations to left and right of the index indicate acceptable sharpness from about

2.4 to 4.2m (approx. 8 to 14 ft.).

The depth-of-field scale can also be used to zone focus, i.e., set the focusing ring so that some anticipated action will take place within the limits of the depth of field. For example, if you want any subject within a range of 2.6m (approx. 81/2 ft.) to infinity to be reasonably sharp and the lighting conditions allow you to set an aperture of f/16 in A or M mode with a 50mm f/1.7 lens, set the lens so the infinity mark is opposite the "16" on the right end of the scale.

BLUB FBOM CAMERA/SUBJECT MOVEMENT

A blurred photograph results when movement of

the subject or camera during exposure causes a

shift in the position of the image on film.

The shutter speed required to "freeze" an object's action normally increases as the object's speed increases; however, no matter what the

speed, an object moving across the viewfinder field

requires a faster shutter speed than one moving at the same speed directly toward or away from the

camera. Similarly, a moving object near the camera

(or one appearing nearer due to use of a longer-

focal-length lens or a close-up accessory) requires a

faster shutter speed than one farther away.

Blur from camera motion depends on such

factors as the lens being used, the apparent

closeness of the subject when viewed through the

lens, the shutter speed, and the camera-support method. Since longer-focal-length lenses and close-

up accessories increase the relative size of the subject, even a slight movement of the camera will be magnified on film; the greater weight and size of such lenses and accessories may also make it difficult to hold them steady. A good rule to

follow is that the slowest shutter speed that can be safely used by most people when hand-holding a lens is the reciprocal of the focal length. For example, for a 125mm lens, the speed would be 1/125 sec; for a 300mm lens, it would be 1/500

(1/300 raised to the next faster speed to be on the

safe side).

important when taking pictures from a moving,

vibrating vehicle such as a boat, car, train, or plane

(especially to prevent blurring the foreground, if

any) or from a vibrating object such as a bridge. To

reduce transmission of the vibrations through your body to the camera, relax your body and avoid direct contact with the object as far as possible.

Use of a sufficiently fast shutter speed is also

SUPPORTING THE CAMERA AND RELEASING THE SHUTTER

In order to obtain sharp, blur-free photos, it is important to release the shutter gently while keeping the camera as still as possible. Always,

regardless of shutter speed, release the shutter with a slow, steady squeeze — never a quick jab — preferably while holding your breath.

Shown at right are some ways of holding the camera to provide adequate support at normal and fast shutter speeds. If you grasp the camera firmly with your right hand on its front and back grips, you can easily shift it back and forth for horizontal (a) and vertical (b) pictures without removing your hand

from its controls. Also, by cradling

the camera in your left hand to support it, you can readily focus and set the aperture, if necessary,

then shoot; another way is to use

your left hand to focus, then grasp the left part of the body for support. Photo (c) shows an alternative for holding the camera vertically. You should, of course, experiment to find the way that suits you best.

Slow-shutter-speed warning

When the main switch is set at "ON " and the operating button is touched or slightly pressed, a slow-shutter-speed warning will beep if the camera sets (in P or A mode) or recommends (in M mode) a shutter speed of 1/30 second or slower. Though the actual danger of blur from camera or subject movement depends on many factors

(p. 44), including your own ability to hold the camera steady, you may wish to use the figure "30" as a reference point to gauge the chance of blur.

When a slow shutter speed is unavoidable, use one of the following methods (given in order of increasing steadiness) to prevent blur from camera movement:

• Hold the camera firmly against your face (in horizontal position, place your thumb between camera and face for support), brace your arm(s) against your body, and spread your feet slightly or lean against a tree, etc. Another way is to kneel on one knee and rest your elbow on the other.

• Steady the camera against a post or other firm, non-vibrating support.

• Use a minipod or similar device to prop the camera on a table, ledge, etc.

• Mount the camera on a sturdy tripod.

Mounting camera on tripod

For maximum sharpness when making exposures too long to permit hand-holding the camera, as

well as for self-timer pictures, mount it on a tripod using the socket on the camera bottom. Re-

lease the shutter in one of the ways

explained on the next page.

CAUTION

• Do not use excessive force when attaching the camera to a tripod with a screw that extends more

than 5.4mm (1/5 in.).

Self-timer

The X-700's electronic self-timer

can be used to delay release of the

shutter for 10 seconds. To operate it:

1. Mount the camera on a sturdy support, compose your picture, and focus.

2. Set the mode/shutter-speed selector at any setting other than "B", and make sure the film is advanced.

3. Pull the self-timer switch up.

4. To start the timer, press the operating button.

A visual signal and (if main

switch is at "ON ") audible beeps

indicate how much time is left before the self-timer releases the shutter. The self-timer LED blinks and the camera beeps as follows:

First 8 sec. twice per sec.

Next sec. eight times

Last sec. continuously

NOTES

• If you wish to cancel the selftimer after it has been started, push the self-timer switch down or turn the main switch off.

• Be sure to turn the self-timer off

after the picture has been taken. If

you do not, the next picture will

also be taken after a 10-sec. delay.

• When taking self-timer pictures in P or A mode, use the eyepiece cap (p. 25).

Other ways of releasing shutter

The shutter can also be released

by using one of the following:

•Minolta Remote Cord S (50cm, 20 in.) or Remote Cord L (5m,

16-1/2 ft.)

•Minolta Wireless Controller IR-1 Set (p. 56)

•Minolta Multi-Function Back (p.

55)

The remote cords and cable release should be screwed into the shutter-

release socket on the side of the lens mount.

CREATIVE CONTROL OF APERTURE AND SHUTTER SPEED

B A

Sometimes you may want to select an aperture so as to obtain a particular effect, such as rendering a certain range in sharp focus or emphasizing a subject against an out-of-focus background. In either case, use the X-700 in A or M mode, setting

the lens at the desired aperture. Small f-numbers

yield a shallow field of sharp focus, as in photo A above, while large f-numbers give greater depth of field, as in photo B.

At other times, the subject or effect you want may make the shutter speed more important. In A mode turn the aperture ring until the LED next to

the desired shutter speed lights, or use M mode to set the speed. Fast shutter speeds such as 1/500 to

1/1000 sec. can "freeze" action, as in photo C above. Slow shutter speeds such as 1/2 to 1 sec. can be used to emphasize subject flow or motion

(photo D).

FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

Besides its pentaprism-mounted silicon photocell for ambient light metering, the X-700 has a second cell located in its mirror compartment to measure through-the-lens

(TTL) light reflected from the film

during flash exposures with PX-

series Auto Electrofl3Shes. Used in

program TTL autoflash mode with the X-700 and an MD lens set for P mode, this Minolta Direct Autoflash Metering system allows you to simply compose, focus on a subject in flash range, and shoot. The aperture will be automatically set for you by the camera's flash program.

In any-aperture TTL autoflash mode with the X-700 set at "A",

you can open the aperture fully up

to obtain maximum flash range, or

close it down for greater depth of

field. Since light is metered through

the lens at the taking aperture during exposure, this mode is ideal for autoflash close-ups, bounce flash, and other creative flash techniques.

In both modes, an LED will blink in the viewfinder to indicate if exposure was sufficient, and flash exposures can be lightened or dark-

ened over a wide range by using the camera's exposure-adjustment con-

trol.

The table at right summarizes how to use PX and other flash units with the X-700. For specific instruc-

tions, see the applicable owner's manual.

Connecting flash units

Cordless clip-on flash units are attached and electrically connected by simply sliding them into the camera's hot shoe. Sync cords of clip-on or bracket-type units must be plugged into the camera's sync terminal.

Bracket-type flash units attach

to the camera's tripod socket.

Camera connection

PX-series Auto Electroflash

Hot shoe (or off-camera cables)

X series Auto Electroflash

Hot shoe

Hot shoe or sync cord

Controllable by camera's

selector:

Flash mode and aperture setting

P: program TTL (camera selects

aperture by flash program)

A: any-aperture TTL (user

selects aperture to control

Selected on flash: Auto: by on-flash sensor at designated aperture(s) Manual: aperture determined by distance

flash range and depth of field)

1-1000, B: manual flash (aper-

ture determined by distance)

X-sync shutter speed

Flash-ready signal

If shutter released

before flash charged:

Flash-distance check (FDC) signaling

Exposure-adjustment

control

Auto Electroflash 360PX also has on-flash sensor for auto control at any of 3 apertures depending on film speed. Auto Electroflash CLE is usable for any-aperture TTL flash in A mode or for manual flash.

Shutter automatically releases at 1/60 if flash charged

(except when camera set at "B")

LED next to "60" blinks at 2Hz (and "A" or "M" LED goes out

in A or M mode); monitor lamp on flash

Photo taken without flash at existing settings

"60" LED blinks at 8Hz (in TTL); FDC lamp on flash

FDC lamp on models 320X, 132X only

Usable in P and A modes (view-

finder +/- LED goes out even

Not usable

when in use)

Electronic flash: 1 to 1/60, B

M, MF, or FP bulb: 1 to 1/15, B

Monitor lamp on flash

Flash may or may not fire

FDC lamp on models 320, 128 only

Other

Not usable

ACCESSORIES (Minolta Program System)

Wideangle Adapter

Baterry Charge PG

Ni-Cd Charger NC 2

NiCd Battery Pack NP-2

Ni-Cd Charger QC-1

Panel Set

AC Adapter 4 or 5

Triple Connector

Power Grip 2 Set

Auto Electroflash 360PX

Off Camera Shoe

Cable OC

Cable CD

Cable EX

Cable MD

Cable AW

Cable FB

Wideangle Adapter

Auto Electroflash 280PX

X 700

Motor Drive 1

Auto Winder G

Auto Electroflash 132PX

Auto Electroflash Macro 80PX Set

Wideangle Adapters

Color Filter Set

Multi Function Back

Quartz Data Back 1

Bounce Reflector Set

Wireless Conntroller IR-1 Set

AUTO ELECTROFLASH 280PX. 132PX. 360PX. MACRO 80PX SET

With one of these flash units attached, the X-700's Direct Autoflash Metering system provides through-the-lens (TTL) off-film flash control in program (P) mode or any-aperture (A) mode. Viewfinder flash-ready signaling, auto

sync-speed setting, and sufficient-exposure confirmation are other features that make them extremely simple to use.

The compact, lightweight 280PX has energy-saving thyristor circuitry and

a power-level selector enabling 2fps winder/motor-drive sync.

The inexpensive yet versatile 132PX gives you the option of vertical bounce

and automatically turns itself off when disconnected.

Among the many handy features of the top-of-the-line 360PX are: horizon-

tal/vertical bounce, variable GN/power control (enabling sync at up to 2fps), auto power switchoff, terminals for off-camera cables and direct auto charge control by the Multi-Function Back in time-lapse photography, and a built-in auto sensor for use with other cameras.

The lens-mounted Macro 80PX Set (used in A mode) has four flashtubes that can be independently switched on or off to control lighting of close-up and macro subjects.

A wide range of accessories for PX flash units expands their usefulness for creative flash photography. Designed for the 280PX and 360PX, Power Grip 2 features well-balanced handling, sync at up to 3.5fps, auto power switchoff,

auto charge control (with Multi-Function Back), and bounce flash at a great

range of angles. Filter panel sets and a bounce reflector are available for the 360PX and 132PX. and an AC adapter for the 360PX and Macro 80PX Set. Cables and connectors enable simple, accurate TTL autoflash operation for

close-up, directional, and multi-flash techniques.

MULTI-FUNCTION BACK

The quartz/microcomputer-controlled Multi-Function Back connects cordlessly to the X-700 in place of its regular back to perform a variety of cameracontrol and data-imprinting functions. By simply pressing keys while viewing its liquid-crystal display, you can set it for time-lapse photographs at a huge range of intervals, automatically timed long exposures, and/or multi-frame sequences. The quartz timer and auto calendar enable recording the time accurate to the second, or the year/month/day in any of three orders. Or you can set the imprinter to record any six-digit code number, to consecutively number each frame, or for no imprinting. Manually controlled imprinting before or after taking the picture is also possible, and data exposure can be selected at any of six levels to match the sensitivity of the film in use.

MOTOR DRIVE 1 and AUTO WINDER G

With Motor Drive 1 attached, you can capture the action with single-frame or continuous operation at either 2 or 3.5 frames per second. The comfortable handgrip has two operating buttons, each with a Minolta "touch switch", enabling full viewfinder readout for either horizontal or vertical framing.

Auto Winder G lets you focus full attention on the creative aspects of

photography by freeing you from winding the film after each picture.

Continuous sequences up to 2fps are also possible by holding the camera's

operating button down.

Both units are designed to attach quickly and easily without access caps to

remove or store. Their film-advance mechanisms stop automatically at the end

of the roll, and film can be easily loaded and unloaded without removing the

units.

WIRELESS CONTROLLER IR-1 SET

The IR-1 infrared transmitter/receiver set lets you trigger the X-700 from up to 60m (about 200 ft.) away for remote-controlled single-frame exposures, continuous sequences, or time exposures. When used with extra receivers, the three-channel transmitter enables independent operation of up to three

cameras or groups of cameras, or simultaneous operation of an unlimited

number of cameras.

OPTIONAL FOCUSING SCREENS

The X-700's standard focusing screen can be

replaced by any of eight optional Acute Matte screens at authorized Minolta service facilities. Types and usages are as follows:

PM: horizontal split/microprism band; standard

type (not shown); general photography

P1 : horizontal split; general photography P2 : horizontal split; general photography with

f/2.8 or larger max. aperture lenses Pd: diagonal split; general photography M: microprism spot; general photography G: matte field only; general, close-up, and tele-

photo photography

L: matte field with grid; general photography

S: horizontal and vertical measuring scales;

general, macro-, micro-, and astrophotography

H: clear spot with engraved double cross; macro-,

micro-, and astrophotography

Interchangeable lenses and other SLR system

accessories are shown in the system guidebook

included in the camera box.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Type: Electronically governed 35mm single-lens reflex AE camera

Exposure-control modes: Fully programmed ("P"), aperture-priority automatic ("A"), and metered manual ("M")

Lens mount: Minolta SLR bayonet of integrally lubricated stainless steel (54° rotating angle); coupling for full-aperture metering, finder display input, and automatic diaphragm control, providing programmed or aperture-priority auto operation with Minolta MD lenses, aperture-priority auto operation with MC and other Minolta SLR interchangeable lenses/accessories; spring-return button for depth-of-field preview or stop-down meter readings with other than MD or MC lenses (standard lenses: MD 50mm f/1.2, f/1.4, f/1.7)

Exposure control and functions: Low-voltage, lowcurrent computer circuit incorporating quartz crystal for sequential control to 1/30,000-sec. accuracy, large-scale ICs, samarium-cobalt impulse-release magnets, and linear-resistance inputs) varies both aperture and shutter speed steplessly according to special "faster-speed" program (see p. 30) in P mode, or varies shutter speed steplessly according to aperture set in A mode, to yield proper exposure for the film

speed and exposure adjustment set; auto-exposure

range: EV 1 to EV 18 (e.g., 1 sec. at f/1.4 to 1/1000 at f/16) at ISO 100/21° with f/1.4 lens; AE-lock device holds meter reading for exposure at that value

regardless of subject-brightness changes

Shutter: Horizontal-traverse focal-plane type; elec-

tronically controlled stepless speeds 1/1000 to 4 sec.

set automatically with endlessly rotatable selector dial

locked at "P" or "A" setting or fixed speeds 1 to

1/1000 sec. or "B" (bulb) set manually at detented

dial indications; electromagnetic shutter release locks

when voltage too low for proper operation

Metering: TTL center-weighted averaging type, by

silicon photocell mounted at rear of pentaprism for

available light, measured full aperture for normal

finder display, then at taking aperture for pro-

grammed/automatic-exposure setting/determination or

stop-down display; by another SPC mounted with

optic in side of mirror compartment for TTL off-film

Direct Autoflash Metering at taking aperture during exposure to control burst duration of PX-series flash units

Film-speed range: ISO 25/15° to 1600/33° set by ASA dial that locks at 1/3-EV increments

Exposure-adjustment control: Up to ±2 EV continuous adjustment of P, A, or M exposure by dial that locks at zero position and each 1/2-EV setting

Mirror: Triple-coated oversize instant-return slide-up type

Viewfinder: Eye-level fixed pentaprism type showing 95% of 24x36mm film-frame area; magnification:

0.9X with 50mm standard lens focused at infinity;

power: —1D, adjustable with accessory snap-on eye-

piece lenses; Fresnel-field focusing screen having artifi-

cially regular-patterned matte field plus central split-

image horizontally oriented focusing aid surrounded

by microprism band, interchangeable with Type P1,

P2, Pd, M, G, L, S, or H screens at authorized Minolta service stations; visible around frame: mode indication (P, A, or M), shutter-speed scale (1, 2, 4, 8, 15, 30, 60, 125, 250, 500, and 1000) with LED setting indication, triangular over-/under-range LED indicators blinking at 4Hz, flash-ready signal (LED next to "60" blinking at 2Hz), FDC signal ("60" LED blinking at 8Hz for 1

sec. after correct flash exposure), mis-set lens warning

(mode indication blinking at 4Hz) in P mode, battery

check (by glowing of any LED when operating button

touched or pressed slightly), f-number set with MD or MC lenses, and exposure-adjustment engaged indica-

tion (LED blinking at 4Hz); display and metering activated by normal finger contact or slight pressing of operating button and continue for 15 sec, except go

out after shutter release

Flash sync and control: Hot shoe and PC terminal for X sync; camera-control contact on hot shoe for flashready signaling and automatic setting of shutter at

1/60 sec. (except when mode/shutter-speed selector set for sync at "B") with PX and X flash units; other electronic units synchronize at 1/60 sec. and slower manual speeds or "B" setting; Class MF, M, and FP flashbulbs, at 1/15 sec. or slower settings; second

contact on hot shoe for burst control by Direct Autoflash Metering with PX units

Film advance: Manual: by lever with single 130" stroke after 30° unengaged movement; motorized: through built-in coupler key with accessory Motor Drive 1 or Auto Winder G; release button for rewind

on camera bottom; advancing-type frame counter; Safe Load Signal indicates film loading and advancing condition

Power: Two 1.5v alkaline-manganese (LR44: Eveready A-76 or equiv.), two 1.55v silver-oxide (SR44: Eveready S-76, EPX-76, or equiv.), or one 3v lithium

(CR-1/3N) cell(s) contained in camera base power both programmed/auto exposure control and manual operation; three-position main switch with indication

for off, on, or on with audible piezoelectric slow-speed warning and self-timer operating indication; battery

check by touching or slightly pressing operating

button (LEDs do not light when cells approach

exhaustion); shutter will not release when voltage too

low for proper operation Self-timer: Electronic for 10-sec. delay, with operation

indicated by camera-front LED that blinks at 2Hz for 8 sec, then 8Hz for 1 sec, then remains on until

shutter releases, plus simultaneous audible indication when main switch in appropriate position; engaged by

switch on body, cycle started by pushing operating button, cancelable anytime before release

Other: Audible 4Hz piezoelectric warning when finder speed indication is 1/30 sec. or slower whenever finger contacts "touch switch" normally or presses operating button slightly with main switch appropriately set; integral front handgrip; detachable back with integral handgrip, memo holder, and ISO (DIN-ASA) table; positive 4-slot take-up spool; remote shutter-release socket

Size and weight: 51.5 x 89 x 137mm (2 x 3-1/2 x

5-3/8 in.), 505g (17-13/16 oz.) without lens and/or power cells

Standard accessories: Carrying strap with slide-on spare battery holder and eyepiece cap

Optional accessories: Auto Electroflash 360PX. 280PX.

132PX, Macro 80PX Set, off-camera cables and connectors. Power Grip 2, sec; Multi-Function Back; Motor Drive 1. Auto Winder G; Wireless Controller IR-1 Set; MD, MC, and other Minolta interchangeable lenses and applicable Minolta SLR system accessories

Specifications subject to change without notice

STORAGE

• If the camera is not to be used for more than two weeks, the batteries should be removed.

• It is advisable to operate the film-advance lever and release the shutter once or twice from time to time

during extended storage.

Minolta Co.. Ltd. Minolta GmbH

Minolta France S.A. Minolta (UK) Limited Minolta Austria Ges. m.b.H. Minolta Camera Benelux B.V.

Belgium Branch Minolta (Schweiz) AG Minolta Svenska AB

Finland Branch Minolta Portugal Limitada Minolta Corporation

Head Office

Los Angeles Branch Minolta Canada Inc.

Head Office

Vancouver Branch Minolta Hong Kong Limited Minolta Singapore (Pte) Ltd. Shanghai Minolta Optical Products Co.. Ltd.

3-13. 2-Chome. Azuchi-Machi, Chuo-Ku. Osaka 541-8556. Japan

Kurt-Fischer-Strasse 50, D-22923 Ahrensburg. Germany 365 Route de Saint-Germain. F-78420 Carrieres-Sur-Seine, France 7 Tanners Drive. Blakelands. Milton Keynes. MK14 5BU. England Amalienstrasse 59-61. A-1131 Wien. Austria Zonnebaan 39, P.O. Box 6000. NL-3600 HA Maarssen, The Netherlands Kontichsesteenweg 38. 8-2630 Aartselaar, Belgium Riedstrasse 6. CH-8953 Dietikon. Switzerland Albygatan 114, S-171 54 Solna. Sweden Niittykatu 6 PL 37. SF-02201 Espoo. Finland Av. do Brasil 33-A. P-1700 Lisboa. Portugal

101 Williams Drive. Ramsey. New Jersey 07446. U.S.A. 11150 Hope Street Cypress. CA 90630. U.S.A

369 Britannia Road East. Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 2H5, Canada 230-3771 Jacombs Road. Richmond. B.C. V6V 2L9, Canada Room 208, 2/F. Eastern Center. 1065 King's Road, Quarry Bay. Hong Kong

10. Teban Gardens Crescent, Singapore 608923

368 Minolta Road, Songjiang. Shanghai. China

• If the camera is to be stored for a long period of time, the body and lens should be returned to their original packing and kept in a cool, dry place away from dust or chemicals, preferably in an airtight container with a drying agent such as silica gel.

Minolta X-700 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual