Olympus PT-030 User Manual

Instruction Manual

Underwater Case

PT-030

For the digital camera
SP-310/SP350

■ Thank you for buying the Underwater Case PT-030.

■ Please read this instruction manual carefully and use the product safely

and correctly.

■ Please keep this instruction manual for reference after reading it.

■ Wrong use may cause damage to the camera on the inside from water

leakage, and repair may not be possible.

■ Before use, perform an advance check as described in this manual.

Disclaimer

WARNING

CAUTION

● Unauthorised copying of this manual in part or in full, except for
private use, is prohibited. Unauthorised reproduction is strictly
prohibited.

● OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. shall not be responsible in any way
for lost profits or any claims by third parties in case of any damage
occurring from incorrect use of this product.

● OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. shall not be responsible in any way
for damage, lost profits, etc. caused by the loss of image data due
to defects, disassembly, repair or modification of this product by
people, other than third parties specifically authorised by
OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. or for other reasons.

Please read the following before using the product

● This product has been precision-crafted from high quality
polycarbonate. When used correctly, it lets you take photographs
safely up to a water pressure equivalent to a depth of 40 metres.

● To ensure correct and safe use of the case, please read all
instructions on handling and carrying out the system check as well
as care, maintenance and storage of the case.

●

OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. shall in no way be responsible for

damage caused by water to the camera contained in the case.

●

OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. shall not pay any compensation for

accidents (injuries or material damage) that happen during the use
of this product.

● Before use, be sure to read the precautions printed on the package.

For safe use

This instruction manual uses various pictographs for correct use of
the product and to prevent danger to the user and other persons as
well as property damage. These pictographs and their meanings are
shown below.

This indicates contents for which the possibility of
human death or severe injury in case of handling under
disregard of this indication can be assumed.

This indicates contents for which the possibility of
human injury or the possibility of material damage in
case of handling under disregard of this indication can
be assumed.

E-1

1. Keep this product out of the reach of babies, infants, and children.

WARNING

There is the possibility of occurrence of the following types of
accidents.

 Injury by dropping onto the body from a height.
 Injury from parts of the body getting caught in parts which open

and close.

 Swallowing of small parts. Please consult a physician immediately

if any parts have been swallowed.

 Triggering of the flash in front of the eyes may cause permanent

vision impairment etc.

2. Do not store with a battery in the digital camera housed in this
product. Storage with a battery inserted may lead to leakage of the
battery liquid and fire.

3. If leakage of water should occur with a camera installed in this
product, quickly remove the battery from the camera. There is the
possibility of ignition and explosion from generation of hydrogen gas.

4. This product is made of resin. There is the possibility that injuries
may be caused when it becomes broken because of strong impact
with a rock or other hard objects. Please handle with sufficient care.

5. The silica gel and the grease for silicone O-rings for this product
are not edible.

CAUTION

1. Do not disassemble or modify this product. This may cause water
leakage or trouble. In case of disassembly or modification by
persons other than those appointed by OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP.,
the guarantee shall not apply.

2. Do not place this product at locations with abnormally high or
abnormally low temperatures or at locations with extreme
temperature changes. The product may deteriorate.

3. Opening and closing at locations with much sand, dust, or dirt may
impair the waterproof characteristic and cause water leakage. This
should be avoided.

4. This product has been designed and manufactured for use at a
water depth within 40 m. Please note that diving to a depth in
excess of 40 m may cause permanent deformation or damage to
the Case and the camera inside the Case or may lead to water
leakage.

E-2

5. Rough handling, such as jumping into the water with the case in
your hand or in an outside pocket or throwing the case into the
water, etc. could lead to water leakage. Please always take care
when using the case.

6. If the camera contained in the case becomes wet because of water
leakage, etc., immediately wipe off all moisture and check the
camera is working correctly.

7. Before travelling by air, please make sure you remove the O-ring,
otherwise the difference in air pressure may make it impossible to
open the case.

8. To ensure safe and trouble-free handling and operation of the
digital camera in this product, please read the camera’s instruction
manual carefully.

9. When sealing this product, please take care to ensure no foreign
matter such as sand, dirt or hair are on the O-ring or contact
surfaces.

Batteries

● Although the camera can be powered with two “AA”-size batteries,
it is recommended you use one CR-V3 battery. This will avoid the
risk of battery power running out during underwater shooting.

● Make sure that the battery electrodes do not get wet. This may
cause a malfunction or an accident.

● Refer to the camera instruction manual for additional cautions
regarding batteries.

Setting the camera mode

● The camera incorporates several shooting scene modes including

wide-angle and macro modes. These simplify underwater shooting
by enabling you to simply select the mode best suited to the scene
you’re shooting. For details, refer to “Shooting with Scene Modes”
on page E-27 of this manual.

● For information on setup, refer to the camera instruction manual.

E-3

For Prevention of Water Leakage Accidents

When water leakage occurs while this product is being used, repair of
the camera housed in this product may become impossible. Please
observe the following cautions for use.

1. When sealing this product, make sure that no hairs, fibers, sand
particles or other foreign matter stick not only to the O-ring, but
also to the contact surface. Even a single hair or a single grain of
sand may cause water leakage. Please check with special care.

Examples for foreign matter sticking to the O-ring

Hair Fibers Grains of sand

2. The O-ring is a consumption product. Please replace it at least
once a year by new one. Also perform maintenance for every use.

3. Deterioration of the O-ring will progress according to the use
conditions and the storage conditions. Immediately replace the O-ring
by a new one if it is damaged, shows cracks, or has lost its elasticity.

4. At the time of O-ring maintenance, clean the inside of the O-ring
groove and confirm the absence of dirt, dust, sand, and other
foreign matter.

5. Apply the specified silicone O-ring grease to the O-ring.

6. The waterproof function is not effective when the O-ring is not
installed correctly. When installing the O-ring, take care that it does
not project from the groove and that it is not twisted. Also, when
sealing the Case, close the lid after confirming that the O-ring has
not come out of the groove.

7. This product is an airtight construction made of plastic (polycarbonate).
When it is left for a long time in a car, on a boat, at the beach, or at
other places reaching a high temperature, or when it is subjected for a
long time to uneven external force, it may be deformed and the
waterproof function may be lost. Pay sufficient attention to temperature
control. Also do not place heavy objects onto the product during
storage or transport, and avoid unreasonable storage.

8. When the O-ring contact surface is pressed strongly from the

E-4

outside of the Case, or when the Case is twisted, the waterproof
function may be lost. Take care not to exert excessive force.

9. Please be sure to perform the advance test and the final test each
time before using the case.

10

. If you should notice drops of water or other signs of water

leakage while taking pictures, immediately stop the dive, remove
any water from the camera and the product, test according to the
item "Final check", and confirm whether leakage has occurred or
not.

Handling the Product

● Use or storage of the product at the following locations may cause
defective operation, defects, trouble, damage, fire, internal
clouding, or water leakage. Always avoid these locations.

 Places where high temperatures exist, such as in direct sunlight, in

a closed vehicle, etc., and/or where extreme differences in
temperatures exist.

 Places where there is a lot of dust.
 Places where there are open fires.
 Places subject to vibrations.
 Places where volatile chemicals are stored or used.
 Water deeper than 40 meters.

● This product is made of polycarbonate resin with excellent impact
resistance, but it may be damaged by scraping against rocks etc. It
also may break when it hits hard objects or is dropped.

● This product is not a case to soften impacts to the camera inside the
product. When this product with a digital camera inside it is subjected
to impacts or heavy objects are placed onto it, the digital camera may
become damaged. Please handle the product with sufficient care.

● When the product is not used for a long time, the waterproof
performance may drop because of deterioration of the O-ring etc.
Before use, always perform the advance test and the final check.

● Do not apply excessive force to the accessory mount, TTL cable
connector or tripod socket.

● When a flash is used while the Case is being used, shadows may
appear at the edges of the picture. This is especially notable when
taking pictures in macro mode on the wide-angle side. Please use
a flash after image confirmation.

●

Do not use the following chemicals for cleaning, corrosion prevention,
prevention of fogging, repair or other purposes. When these are used
for the Case directly or indirectly (with the chemicals in vaporized state),
they may cause cracking under high pressure or other problems.

E-5

Chemicals which cannot be used

Volatile organic solvents,
chemical detergents

Anticorrosion agent

Commercial defogging
agents

Grease other than specified
silicone grease

Adhesive

Explanation
Do not clean the Case with alcohol, gasoline, thinner

or other volatile organic solvents or with chemical
detergents etc. Pure water or lukewarm water is
sufficient.

Do not use anticorrosion agents. The metallic parts
are treated with plating or aluminum oxidation.
Washing with pure water is sufficient.

Do not use commercial defogging agents. Always
use the specified desiccant silica gel.

Use only the specified silicone grease for the silicone
O-ring, as otherwise the O-ring surface may
deteriorate and water leakage may be caused.

Do not use adhesive for repairs or other purposes.
When repair is required, please contact a dealer or a
service station of our company.

● Do not perform operations other than specified in this instruction
manual, do not remove or modify parts other than specified, and do
not use parts other than specified.
Any troubles in taking pictures or with the equipment resulting from
the above actions shall be outside the guarantee.

● When the enclosure of the balance weight breaks, the metal on the
inside may corrode. Take care not to damage the enclosure.

● After use, wash the balance weight with pure water and wipe off all
moisture sufficiently.

E-6

Contents

Disclaimer ..................................................................................E-1

Please read the following before using the product ..................E-1

For safe use ..............................................................................E-1

Batteries ....................................................................................E-3

Setting the camera mode ..........................................................E-3

For Prevention of Water Leakage Accidents..............................E-4

Handling the Product..................................................................E-5

Contents ..............................................................................E-7-8

1. Preparations ......................................................................E-9

Check the contents of the package. ..........................................E-9

Names of the parts
Install the strap.
Master the basic operation.

Holding the Case
How to Press the Shutter
How to Use the Mode Dial
How to Use the Zoom Lever
Setting the Zoom Lever
How to use the POWER Button

Removing the TTL cable connector cap ..............................E-14

Removing the hot shoe cable cap ........................................E-15

Lubricating the TTL Connector Thread ................................E-15

..................................................................E-10

......................................................................

....................................................

..................................................................E-11

......................................................E-12

....................................................E-12

................................................E-12

........................................................

............................................E-13

E-11
E-11

E-13

2. Advance Check of the Case ......................................E-16

Advance test before use ..........................................................E-16

Making sure the case is waterproof ......................................E-16

Advance Test

........................................................................E-17

3. Install the digital camera. ..........................................E-18

Check the digital camera......................................................... E-18

Battery Confirmation
Confirmation of the Remaining Number of Pictures to be Taken

Remove the hand strap from the digital camera.

Prepare the camera

Which digital cameras can be loaded?

Check the operation of the camera.
Open the Case.
Insert the digital camera.

Insertion of silica gel

Set the mode dial
Check the loading status.

............................................................E-18

............................E-18

................................................................E-18

................................ E-18

.................................... E-18

...................................................................... E-19

........................................................ E-19

............................................................

..................................................................E-20

........................................................ E-21

........E-18

E-20

E-7

Seal the Case...........................................................................E-21

Install the special balance weight.............................................E-21

Check the camera operation. ..................................................E-22

Installation and Removal of the LCD Hood

Installation

Removal
Mounting and Removing the Lens Cap
Perform the final checks.

Visual inspection
Final Test

............................................................................E-23

................................................................................E-23

........................................................ E-24

..................................................................E-24

................................................................................E-25

..............................E-23

....................................E-24

4. Taking Pictures Under Water ....................................E-26

How to Use the Hand Strap ....................................................E-26

Take pictures carefully.

Confirm the picture on the LCD monitor. ..............................E-26

Quietly press the shutter lever.

Caution when using the flash

5.

Underwater Shooting According to the Scene Type

Underwater shooting modes ....................................................E-27

Underwater Wide-Angle 1 ....................................................

Underwater Wide-Angle 2 ....................................................E-27

Underwater Macro ................................................................E-27

Selecting the

shooting

.......................................................... E-26

............................................ E-26

................................................

............E-27

scene mode. ...................................... E-28

E-26

E-27

6. Handling After Shooting..............................................E-29

Wipe off any waterdrop. ..........................................................E-29

Removing the digital camera................................................... E-30

Wash the Case with pure water.
Dry the Case.

.......................................................................... E-31

............................................ E-31

7. Maintaining the Waterproof Function ....................E-32

Remove the O-ring...................................................................E-32

Remove any sand, dirt, etc.
Install the O-ring.
How to Apply Grease to the O-ring
Replace consumable products.
Maintenance of the threaded sections on the
TTL cable and TTL cable connector
Maintenance of the TTL Connector Cap

.................................................................... E-34

8. Appendix ..........................................................................

PT-030 Frequently Asked Questions ......................................E-37

Specifications ..........................................................................E-42

.................................................... E-32

..........................................E-34

.............................................. E-35

........................................E-35

................................ E-36

E-37

E-8

1. Preparations

Check the contents of the package.

Check that all accessories are in the box.
Contact your dealer if accessories should be missing or damaged.

LCD hood
(on the body)

Waterproof cap for the TTL cable

LCD hood
strap

Case body

(Check that the O-ring
is normal.)

PT-030

取扱説明書 防水プロテクタ

デジタルカメラSP-350用

Instruction Manual Underwater Case

For the digital camera SP-310 / SP-350

Mode d'emploi Caisson étanche

Pour l'appareil photo numérique SP-310 / SP-350

Bedienungsanleitung Unterwassergehäuse

Für die Digitalkamera SP-310 / SP-350

Manual de Instrucciones Caja estanca

Para la cámara digital SP-310 / SP-350

SP-310 / SP-350

SP-310 / SP-350

Instruction manual
(this manual)

Silicone grease

connector

Lenscap

Waterproof cap
maintenance adapter

Hand strap

Balance weight

O-ring remover

Authorised distributors list/
Authorised service centres list

Silica gel

E-9

Names of the parts

Palm grip

❈ Zoom lever
❈ Shutter lever
❈ Mode dial knob

Accessory mount
TTL cable connector
Diffuser and diffuser cover
Front lid
Buckle hook
Buckle lock lever
Lens cap strap
Lens cap
Lens ring

Note :

The Case operation parts marked by❈ corresponds to the operation parts
of the digital camera. When the operation parts of the Case are operated,
the corresponding functions of the digital camera will operate. For details of
the functions, refer to the instruction manual for the digital

Lens window
Hand strap
Hand strap ring
Shade hood
Loading guide rails
Tripod seat
O-ring (POL-030)
LCD inner hood
LCD hood

❈ POWER button
❈ Flash mode button
❈ AEL button
❈ DISP/GUIDE button

E-10

❈ QUICK VIEW button
❈ OK/MENU button
❈ Cross-cursor buttons

Rear lid
LCD hood strap
Grease for silicone
O-ring (White cap)
Silica gel
Balance weight
O-ring remover
Waterproof cap
maintenance adapter

camera.

CAUTION

Install the strap.

CAUTION

Installation explanation

Hand strap

Hand strap ring

Finished installation

Install the strap on the Case body.

:

Please install the strap correctly as shown above. OLYMPUS
IMAGING CORP. shall bear no responsibility for damage etc. caused
by dropping the Case because of incorrect installation of the strap.

Master the basic operation.

Please master the basic operation of the Case before taking pictures.

Holding the Case

Hold the Case securely with both hands, keep your elbows close to
your body, and hold the Case so that you can confirm the picture on the
LCD monitor of the digital camera through the LCD monitor window of
the Case.

Good
example

Bad
example

:•

Note: • Check your image on the LCD monitor. The viewfinder cannot be used

Do not exert excessive force onto the lens window or the lens ring.

• Take care not to put your fingers etc. over the lens window
and the flash diffuser.

to check the image.

E-11

How to Press the Shutter

When pressing the shutter lever,
press it gently, so that there will
be no movement of the camera.

Advice

• For more detailed information on operating the shutter release,
please consult the digital camera’s instruction manual.

How to Use the Mode Dial

The case is equipped with a
mode dial knob that fits on the
camera's mode dial and
functions the same way. After
inserting the digital camera into
the case, make sure that the
mode dial knob is operable
before taking any image.

Advice

• Please confirm that the mode dial knob has been set securely to

the mode dial of the digital camera. If the mode of the digital
camera does not change when the mode dial knob is operated,
turn the dial while pushing it lightly.

How to Use the Zoom Lever

Zoom operation is possible by
operating the zoom lever of this
Case corresponding to the zoom
lever of the digital camera in the
Case.

Mode dial
knob

E-12

Setting the Zoom Lever

CAUTION

CAUTION

When loading the digital camera in the Case, fit the projecting part of the
zoom lever of the digital camera into the recessed part of the zoom lever on
the inside of the Case.

:

• When loading the camera, confirm that the projecting
part of the zoom lever of the camera is properly set to
the recessed part of the zoom lever of the Case.

• When the setting is insufficient, the loading of the
camera becomes imperfect and it may not be
possible to seal the Case or zooming may not
function. Insufficient sealing will cause water leakage.

How to Use the POWER Button

Press the POWER button to
turn the camera ON/OFF.

:•When the digital camera is not used for about 3 minutes

POWER button

while in the shooting mode, it enters the sleep mode
(standby status) and no operations are possible.
To cancel sleep mode (and return to operation status),
press the shutter button or any other button.
For details, refer to your digital camera's instruction manual.

E-13

Removing the TTL cable connector cap

②

Remove.

①

Tu rn counter clockwise.

TTL cable
connector cap

③

Insert into the

connector.

Underwater
TTL cable

Use this mark to
align the position.

④

Tu rn the threaded section of the connector

clockwise lightly until it is stopped.

Cap

Connector

CheckO-rings

①

Put the cap
on the case.

②

Gently turn the cap

clockwise until it stops.

CAUTION

 To perform TTL flash shooting in

combination with the separately
available Electronic Flash Case,
remove the TTL cable connector
cap as described below.

1Remove the TTL cable connector

cap from the Case.

2Connect the Electronic Flash

1

Case’s underwater TTL cable to
the TTL connector on the Case.

2

---- How to attach the TTL cable connector cap to the case ----

Make sure there is no foreign matter attached to the O-rings inside the cap and on
the TTL cable connector. To secure the cap, gently turn it clockwise until it stops.

:•I

f the TTL cable connector cap is loose, water
penetration may result. Be sure to gently turn the cap
until it stops to make sure it is firmly secured.

❈ For details on the TTL cable and hot shoe cable, refer to the

instruction manual provided with the Electronic Flash Case.

Do not turn or tighten the TTL cable too hard. If it is too
tight, it may be difficult to loosen and remove it.

E-14

Removing the hot shoe cable cap

CAUTION

CAUTION

To perform TTL flash shooting when this case is used, connect the
hot shoe cable provided with the optional electronic flash case to the
connector on this case and the camera’s hot shoe.

1

Turn the hot shoe cable connector cap
inside the case counterclockwise to
remove it.

2

Insert the connector of the hot shoe cable
into the case's connector and turn the
connector screws all the way clockwise to
connect them firmly.

3

Insert the hot shoe on the hot shoe cable
into the hot shoe on the camera.

4

When not using the hot shoe cable, attach
the hot shoe cable cap to the hot shoe cable
connector inside the case and turn the cap
all the way clockwise to attach it firmly.

:•

Be sure to remove the camera from the case when
inserting the connector of the hot shoe cable into the
case’s connector.

Lubricating the TTL Connector Thread

To facilitate attachment and removal of the TTL cable and TTL
connector, apply the silicone O-ring grease (provided with this Case),
to the threaded section.
For details, see the maintenance description on page E-35 of this
manual.

:•

The SP-310 camera cannot be used in combination
with the separately available electronic flash case.

E-15

2. Advance Check of the Case

Advance test before use

This Case has been the subject of thorough quality control for the parts
during the manufacturing process and thorough function inspections
during the assembly. In addition, a water pressure test is performed
with a water pressure tester for all products to confirm that the
performance conforms to the specifications. However, depending on
the carrying and storage conditions, the maintenance status, etc., the
waterproof function may be damaged.
Before diving, always perform the following advance test and the water
leakage test after installation of the camera.

Making sure the case is waterproof

Check the parts that ensure the case is waterproof.

1. Make sure that the O-ring between the front and rear lids of the
case is attached firmly and the buckle is tightly secured.

2. Make sure that the O-ring on the TTL cable connector cap is
attached firmly and that the cap is fitted tightly to the connector.

E-16

Advance Test

CAUTION

1. Before installing the digital camera in the Case, immerse the empty
Case to the intended water depth to confirm that there is no water
leakage.

2. Main causes of water leakage are as follows.

 The O-ring has not been installed.
 A part of the O-ring or the entire O-ring is outside the specified

groove.

 O-ring damage, cracks, deterioration or deformation.
 Sand, fibers, hair or other foreign matter sticking to the O-ring, O-

ring groove or O-ring contact surface.

 Damage to the O-ring groove or O-ring contact surface.
 When closing the Case, check for catching of the hand strap and

silica gel after the above causes have been eliminated.

:

• The most suitable method for checking water leakage
is to immerse the Case to the intended water depth.
When this is difficult, water leakage also can be
checked at a shallow depth with no water pressure. Do
not feel that this is troublesome, but perform this test.

• If the advance test should show water leakage with
normal handling, stop using the Case and contact
your dealer or an Olympus service station.

E-17

3. Install the digital camera.

CAUTION

Check the digital camera.

Check the digital camera before loading it in the Case.

Battery Confirmation

Confirm that the remaining battery capacity is sufficient.

Note:• To avoid missing shutter chances due the battery running out,

you should always replace the battery with a fully charged
battery before each dive.

Confirmation of the Remaining Number of Pictures to be Taken

Confirm that the image storage has a sufficient remaining number
of pictures to be taken.

Remove the hand strap from the digital camera.

If a hand strap is attached to the digital camera, it must be
removed.

:

• If the digital camera is loaded without removing the

strap, the strap may prevent the Case from closing
properly, resulting in leakage.

• When removing the strap, handle the digital camera

carefully. OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. is not
responsible for any damage caused by dropping or
otherwise mishandling the camera.

Prepare the camera

Which digital cameras can be loaded?

This product (PT-030) is designed exclusively for use with the SP-310
and SP-350.

Check the operation of the camera.

Confirm the operation according to the instruction manual for the
digital camera.

E-18

CAUTION

Open the Case.

Use the provided O-ring remover as described below.

 Insert the hook section below the buckle lock/unlock lever.
 Slowly pull the O-ring remover.
 If the O-ring remover is not available, push the buckle lock/unlock

lever from the left and right with your thumb and index finger, and
pull up the lever gently.

Insert the digital camera.

Make sure that the digital camera is turned OFF. Pull up the mode dial
knob on the front lid of the Case and gently insert the digital camera into
the Case, taking care that the projecting part of the camera’s zoom lever
fits into the recessed part of the Case’s zoom lever section.

Mode dial
knob

:•Confirm that the projecting part of the zoom lever of

the digital camera is set securely to the zoom lever
notch on the inside of the Case. When the setting is
not secure, the loading of the digital camera is not
complete and closing of the rear lid of the Case may
not be possible or zoom may not function even when
the zoom lever is operated.

• Insufficient sealing will cause water leakage.

E-19

Insertion of silica gel

CAUTION

Before sealing the Case,
insert the accessory silica
gel bag (for prevention of
fogging) between the
bottom of the camera and
the Case. Insert the bag
with the glued longer side
to the inside.

: • Insert the silica gel all the way at the specified

location and with the specified orientation. When the
orientation is not correct, the silica gel bag will be
caught when the Case is sealed and water leakage
will be caused.

• Attempting to seal the Case with the bag inserted only
part of the way will cause the silica gel bag to get caught
by the O-ring and water leakage will occur.

• Once silica gel has been used, the moisture
absorption performance will be impaired. Always
exchange the silica gel when the Case is opened and
closed.

Pay attention to the orientation.

Set the mode dial.

After closing the rear lid of the
Case, fit the Case’s mode dial
(located on the front lid of the
Case,) over the top of the digital
camera’s mode dial.

Mode dial
knob

Advice

•After fitting the Case's mode dial knob, turn the knob to
make sure that the camera's mode dial switches before
closing the Case tightly.

• If the camera’s mode dial does not turn when turning the
mode dial knob, gently push in the knob while turning it.

E-20

CAUTION

Check the loading status.

Always perform the following final checks before sealing the Case.

 Has the digital camera been loaded so that the zoom lever operates

properly?

 Has the silica gel been inserted all the way at the specified position?
 Are the O-ring and the O-ring contact surface free of dirt and other

foreign matter?

 Is the O-ring installed properly both on the front and rear lids?
 Is the TTL cable connector cap attached securely?

Seal the Case.

When the rear lid is closed
(quietly, so that the O-ring
will not come out of the
groove), the buckles are
engaged with the edge of
the rear lid, and the buckle
lock levers are pushed down
in arrow direction, the Case
will be sealed airtight.

:•Seal the Case by turning both buckle lock levers down in

arrow direction. When one of the buckles is left open, the
Case will not be sealed and water leakage will be caused.

Install the special balance weight.

Install the special balance
weight to the tripod
mounting thread at the
bottom of the Case.
Install the balance weight
securely by tightening the
accessory screw of the
balance weight.

E-21

Check the camera operation.

CAUTION

After sealing the Case, check that the camera functions normally.

 Push the POWER button on the Case and confirm that the camera

turns ON/OFF.

 Turn the mode dial knob on the Case and confirm that the camera

mode switches properly.

 Push the shutter lever on the Case and confirm that the camera

shutter is released.

 Operate other control buttons on the Case and confirm that the

camera functions as it should.

POWER Zoom

Mode

Shutter

:•If the camera does not function properly, restart the digital

camera installation procedure from “Check the digital
camera.” on page E-18 of this manual.

• Make sure that the mode dial can be moved after the
camera has been loaded in the Case. If the mode dial
does not move, there may be oil or grease on it; wipe it
clean.

•

When the digital camera is not used for about 3 minutes
while in the shooting mode, it enters the sleep mode
(standby status) and no operations are possible. To cancel
sleep mode and return to operation status, press the zoom
lever, shutter button or any other button. For details, refer to
the digital camera's instruction manual.

E-22

Installation and Removal of the LCD Hood

Installation

Strongly push the mounting projections of the LCD hood as shown
in the figure into the guides above and below the LCD monitor
window.

Removal

Remove the mounting projections of the LCD hood from the guides
above and below the LCD monitor window by widening the LCD
hood.

Guides

Installation Removal

E-23

Mounting and Removing the Lens Cap

CAUTION

Fit the lens cap onto the lens
ring as shown in the figure. Be
sure to remove the lens cap
before shooting.

Perform the final checks.

Visual inspection

After sealing the Case, visually examine the sealed parts of the
front and rear lids to make sure that the O-ring is not twisted or out
of the groove and that no foreign matter is caught in the groove.

:

• Hairs, fibers, and other narrow items are not very

apparent, but they may cause entry of water, so that
special attention is required.

E-24

Final Test

The final test after loading the camera is explained below. This is the only way to
eliminate worry about possible entry of water! Always perform this test. It can be
performed easily in a water tank or a bathtub. The required time is about five minutes.

Simple water
immersion test

Place the Case

1

slowly into the water.

At first, immerse the
Case for only three

2

seconds.

Check that no water
has entered into the

3

Case.

Next, immerse the
Case for 30

4

seconds.

Check that no water

5

has entered.

Next, check by
immersing for three

6

minutes.

This is the final check.
Has the silica gel

7

become moist?

Now everything is
all right.

8

Do not forget the
balance weight.

Explanatory
image

Hints

As the Case is transparent,
waterdrops entering into it can be
confirmed easily.

In case of trouble with the O-ring,
three seconds are enough for water
to enter. Are there air bubbles
coming out between the lids?
Please check carefully.

Remove the Case from the water and
check that no water has accumulated at
the bottom of the Case.
Is there any water trickling down?

Check carefully for air bubbles!
Do not perform any operation yet,
but just observe.

Remove the Case from the water and
check that no water has accumulated
at the bottom of the Case.
Perform very careful confirmation.

Check carefully for air bubbles!
Try operation of the buttons used frequently.
Check carefully for air bubbles!
If there is still no entry of water,
everything is OK!

This is very important!
Has the silica gel become moist?
Please check carefully!
As the inside can be seen, the inspection for
entry of water also can be made securely!

Now everything is all right!
Have a nice dive!
Did you remember to attach the
balance weight?

E-25

4. Taking Pictures Under Water

CAUTION

How to Use the Hand Strap

Pass your hand through
the accessory hand
strap and adjust the
length with the stop
button.

Take pictures carefully.

Confirm the picture on the LCD monitor.

This Case uses the LCD monitor to confirm the picture.

Quietly press the shutter lever.

When pressing the shutter lever, hold the Case securely with both
hands and operate the lever quietly to prevent camera shake.

Caution when using the flash

When taking macro shots with a wide-angle setting, the flash may
provide uneven and/or insufficient illumination.

Flash working range

Conditions at the time of shooting (clarity of the water, suspended
matter, etc.), can affect the flash's working range.
For this reason, the image should always be checked on the LCD
monitor after capture.

Wide angle : Approx. 0.4 m to 3.8 m
Tele : Approx. 0.4 m to 2.2 m

:

• When an underwater shooting lens is attached to the
front of the lens ring on the Case, the light from the
camera’s built-in flash will be obstructed. If you want
to use a flash with such a lens, use an external flash.
You can purchase an electronic flash and electronic
flash case.

E-26

5.

Underwater Shooting According to the Scene Type

To facilitate underwater shooting, the SP-310/SP-350 camera
features a variety of preset configurations optimized for various
underwater shooting situations.

Underwater shooting modes

Underwater Wide-Angle 1

Suitable for shooting a scene that
extends across a wide range such as a
school of fish swimming through the
water. Background blues are vividly
reproduced.

Underwater Wide-Angle 2

Suitable for shooting a large, slowly moving
subject such as a dolphin or manta.

In many dolphin-watching locations, use of a flash
is not permitted to avoid frightening the dolphins.
Although this mode was originally designed to
work without the flash, it can also be enabled if
required, for example when shooting a manta.

Underwater Macro

Suitable for close-up shooting of small
fish and other underwater creatures.
Natural colors underwater are accurately
reproduced. Red tones can be enhanced
by using the flash.

(Examples)

E-27

Selecting the shooting scene mode



To use one of the preset
underwater shooting scene
modes, turn the Case’s mode
dial knob to set the camera
mode to [SCENE].



While observing the LCD
monitor screen, press the Up
or Down cross-cursor button
on the Case to select the
optimum underwater shooting
scene mode.



Press the ON/MENU button to

enter the selected underwater
shooting scene mode.







E-28

6. Handling After Shooting

CAUTION

Wipe off any waterdrop.

After completing the shooting
and returning to land, wipe off
any waterdrop sticking to the
Case. Use air or a soft cloth not
leaving any fibers to thoroughly
wipe any waterdrop etc. from
the joint between the front and
rear lid, the shutter lever, the
palm grips, and the buckles.

:•Especially when waterdrops remain between the front and

the rear lid, they may spill to the inside when the Case is
opened. Take special care to wipe off all waterdrops.

• When opening the Case, take sufficient care that no
water will drop from your hair or body onto the Case and
the camera.

• Before opening the Case, make sure that your hands or
gloves are free of sand, fibers, etc.

• Do not open or close the Case at locations where water
or sand is to be sprayed. When this cannot be avoided
because you have to exchange the battery or the image
storage, place a sheet downwind from some object and
take care that no water or sand is sprayed.

• Take care not to touch the digital camera or the battery
with hands wet with sea water.

Note: • Moisten a towel etc. in advance with pure water and keep

it in a plastic bag, so that you can wipe the salt from your
hands and fingers before handling the camera.

E-29

Removing the digital camera.

CAUTION

Unlock the buckle on the Case and open its rear lid carefully. Pull up the
Case’s mode dial knob and remove the digital camera from the Case,
taking care that the bottom of the Case’s mode dial knob is not caught
on the camera’s mode dial.

: • Always place the opened Case with the O-ring side

facing up. When the Case is placed with the O-ring
side facing down, dirt or other foreign matter may
attach to the O-ring or the O-ring contact surface.
This could result in leakage during the next dive.

• Please refer top the digital camera’s operation
manual for instructions on how to store pictures,
transfer pictures, etc.

E-30

Wash the Case with pure water.

CAUTION

CAUTION

After use, seal the Case again after taking out the camera and wash it
sufficiently in pure water as soon as possible. After use in sea water,
it is effective to immerse it for a fixed time in pure water to remove
any salt.

:

• Water leakage may be caused when a high water
pressure is applied locally. Before washing the Case
with water, remove the digital camera from it.

• Operate the shutter lever and various buttons of this

product in pure water to remove salt adhering to the
shaft. Do not disassemble for cleaning.

• Drying the Case with adhering salt may impair the

function. Always wash off any salt after use.

Dry the Case.

After washing with pure water, use a soft cloth without any salt on it
and not causing any fibers to wipe off any waterdrop and dry the
Case completely at a well ventilated location in the shade.

:

• Do not use hot air from a hair drier or the like for
drying and do not expose the Case to direct sunlight,
as this may accelerate deterioration and deformation
of the Case and deterioration of the O-ring, leading to
leakage of water.
When wiping the Case, take care not to cause
scratches.

E-31

7. Maintaining the Waterproof Function

Remove the O-ring.

Open the Case and remove the O-ring from the Case.
Removal of the O-ring
 Insert the O-ring remover between the O-ring and the O-ring

groove.

 Pass the tip of the inserted O-ring remover below the O-ring. (Be

careful not to scratch the O-ring groove with the tip of the O-ring
remover.)

 Hold the O-ring with your fingertips after it has come out of the

groove and remove it from the Case.

Remove any sand, dirt, etc.

After visually checking that dirt has been removed from the O-ring,
checking for attached sand and other foreign matter, as well as for
damage and cracks can be done by squeezing the entire
circumference of the O-ring lightly with your fingertips.

E-32

CAUTION

Remove any foreign matter attached to the O-ring groove using a lint­free clean cloth or cotton swab. Also remove any sand or dirt
attached to the O-ring contact surface on the front lid of the case.

:•When a mechanical pencil or a similar other sharp

object is used to remove the O-ring or to clean the
inside of the O-ring groove, the Case and the O-ring
may be damaged and water leakage may be caused.

• When the O-ring is checked with the fingertips, take
care not to stretch the O-ring.

• Never use alcohol, thinner, benzene or similar
solvents or chemical detergents to clean the O-ring.
When such chemicals are used, it is to be feared that
the O-ring will be damaged or that its deterioration will
be accelerated.

E-33

Install the O-ring.

CAUTION

Confirm that no foreign matter is attached, apply a thin coat of the
accessory grease to the O-ring, and fit the O-ring into the groove. At
this time, confirm that the O-ring does not stick out from the groove.

How to Apply Grease to the O-ring

Apply the
exclusive

1

lubricant to each
O-ring.

Spread the
lubricant all over

2

the O-ring.

Check that the
O-ring is free of

3

scratch or
unevenness.

Apply lubricant on
the O-ring contact

4

surface.

Make sure that your fingers and the O­ring are free of dirt, and squeeze about
5 mm of lubricant onto a finger. (5 mm
is the most appropriate amount.)

Surround the lubricant with three
fingers and spread it over the ring. Be
careful not to use excessive force as
this may stretch the O-ring.

After spreading the lubricant, check
visually and by touch that the O-ring is not
scratched and that its surface is flat. If it is
damaged in any way, replace it with a
brand-new O-ring.

Use the lubricant remaining on the
fingers to clean and lubricate the
case's contact surface.

:•Always perform maintenance of the waterproof

function even when the Case has been opened to
exchange the battery or the image storage during
shooting. Neglecting this maintenance may become
the cause of water leakage.

• When the Case is not to be used for a long time,
remove the O-ring from the groove to prevent
deformation of the O-ring, apply a thin coat of silicone
grease, and store it in a clean plastic bag or the like.

• When drying is done with salt attached, it is likely that
a function impairment will be caused. After use,
always wash off any salt.

E-34

Replace consumable products.

 The O-ring is a consumable product. Independent of the number of

times the Case is used, it is recommended that the O-ring should
be replaced by a new one at least once a year.

 Deterioration of the O-ring is accelerated by the use conditions and

the storage conditions. Replace the O-ring even before a year has
passed if it shows signs of damage, cracking or loss of elasticity.

Note: •

Please use original Olympus products for the silicone O-ring
grease, the silica gel, and the O-ring. These consumable
products also can be purchased at an Olympus service
station.

Maintenance of the threaded sections on the TTL cable and TTL cable connector

If the threaded sections used to connect the TTL cable to the TTL
cable connector are not maintained properly, salt and other seawater
residue may adhere the TTL cable and prevent it from being
disconnected.
After use in seawater, clean off any salt, sand, or other residue as
soon as possible, then dry the equipment thoroughly. Clean the
threaded sections with a cotton swab and apply a thin, uniform layer
of O-ring silicon grease (provided with this case).

Clean and apply O-ring silicon
grease to these sections.

E-35

Maintenance of the TTL Connector Cap

O-ring

After removing the TTL connector cap from the waterproof cap, be sure
to clean and grease the O-ring.
Use the waterproof cap maintenance adapter to remove the O-ring unit
from the waterproof cap.

Waterproof cap Waterproof cap

maintenance adapter

1

Insert the adapter by aligning its pin with
the hole on the cap.

2

Turn the adapter counterclockwise to
remove the O-ring unit.

3

After removing the O-ring attached to the
O-ring unit, clean the O-ring groove and
apply silicon grease to the O-ring. Then,
re-attach the O-ring to the O-ring unit.

❈ Reverse the removal procedure to re-attach the O-ring unit to the

waterproof cap.

E-36

8. Appendix

PT-030 Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which digital cameras can be used with the PT-030?
A1 : The PT-030 is designed specifically for use with the model SP-310 or

SP-350.

Q2: What precautions must be observed when loading the digital camera into

the Case?

A2 : Pay special attention to the following items when loading the camera into

the Case.

(1) Check that the remaining capacity of the battery in the digital camera is

sufficient.

(2) Check how many more pictures can be saved in image storage.

Please use a storage medium with a sufficient space in order to reduce
the number of times the Case has to be opened and closed.

(3) Remove the strap from the digital camera.

When the camera is loaded without removing the strap, the strap may
get caught when the Case is sealed and this will cause water leakage.

(4) Before sealing the Case, confirm that the O-ring has been installed

properly.
(5) Confirm that the TTL connector cap is closed tightly.
(6) Confirm that the O-ring and the O-ring contact surface are free of dirt,

hair and other foreign matter.
(7) Insert the silica gel for defogging. Please use silica gel for the Olympus

Case.
(8) Be sure to pull up the mode dial knob of the Case before loading the

camera in it. After inserting the camera, pushdown the mode dial knob to

fit it on the camera’s mode dial.
(9) Be sure to attach the special balance weight to the tripod seat after

completing installation.

Q3: What cautions must be observed when using and storing the Case?
A3 : Pay special attention to the following items.

(1) When the O-ring contact surface is pressed strongly from the outside of

the Case, or when the Case is twisted, the waterproof function may be

impaired and water leakage may be caused.
(2) When the Case is used, left or stored at the following locations, defective

operation or trouble may be caused. Always avoid such locations.

(a) Places where the Case can reach high temperatures under direct

sunlight or in a car, places with extremely low temperatures, and
places with extreme temperature variations

E-37

(b) Places with open fire
(c) Places with volatile substances
(d) Places with vibrations

(3) In case of the following handling with a camera loaded into the Case,

trouble or breakage may be caused for the Case and/or the loaded
camera. Always avoid such handling.
(a) Hitting other objects
(b) Dropping
(c) Placing heavy objects on top of the Case

(4) When the Case is not used for a long time, trouble from formation of

mold etc. may be caused. Before use, confirm the operation of all
operation parts and perform the advance test and the final test.

Q4: What cautions must be observed when opening and closing the Case?
A4 : Pay special attention to the following items.

(1) Do not open and close the Case at locations with water spray or sand

spray.

(2) Wipe off all waterdrops from the gap between the front lid and the rear lid

and around projections and recesses such as the buckles. When this is
not done, entry of waterdrops into the Case is to be feared at the time of
opening and closing.

(3) When opening the Case, take care that no water will drip from your hair

or body into the Case or onto the camera.

(4) When the Case is open, confirm that the O-ring and the O-ring contact

surface on the front lid are free of sand, fibers or other foreign matter.

(5) Do not touch the camera or the image storage with your hands to which

sea water is sticking.

(6) If you should detect waterdrops or other signs of water leakage while

shooting, immediately end the dive, perform the water leakage test
again, and confirm that there is no leakage. If the camera is wet, wipe off
any moisture and check the operation.

Q5: How should the Case be handled after use?
A5 : After use, take out the camera as soon as possible and wash the Case

with pure water. In case of use in the ocean, it is effective to immerse the
Case for a certain time in pure water to remove any salt. Operate the
buttons and levers under water to turn the shafts and wash off any salt.
After washing, use a dry cloth without any salt on it to wipe off any
moisture and dry the Case in the shade. Do not use hot air from a hair
drier or the like and do not dry the Case under direct sunlight. Exposure
to high temperatures or direct sunlight may cause deformation,
discoloration or breakage of the Case and deterioration of the O-ring.
Wipe the inside of the Case with a soft cloth not causing any fibers.

E-38

Remove the O-ring, wipe off any salt, sand, dust, etc., and also clean the

O-ring groove and the O-ring contact surface in the same way and then

dry them. When an object with a sharp tip is used to remove the O-ring

from the groove, the O-ring may be damaged and water leakage may be

caused. Always use the provided O-ring remover.

Q6: How should I take pictures under water?
A6 : Please observe the following items for shooting under water.

(1) Fix the Case with the accessory hand strap to your wrist.
(2) When you place a finger onto the lens window, the finger will appear in

the photo. Pay attention to the position of your fingers when holding the

Case.
(3) When pressing the shutter lever, hold the Case securely with both hands

and operate the lever quietly to prevent camera shake.
(4) Before shooting, look through the LCD monitor window on the rear of the

Case to confirm that a picture is displayed on the camera’s LCD monitor.

In order to avoid missing shutter chances due to an exhausted battery,

you should always replace the battery with a fully charged battery before

each dive.

Q7: How can I check for water leakage?
A7 : For confirmation, perform the advance test and the final test after loading

the camera. The advance test with immersing the Case without the

camera to the intended use depth to check for water leakage is the most

accurate test, but when this is difficult, it is safer to perform this test even

at a depth of 1 m or in a bathtub. The final test also can be performed in

a bathtub or a bucket.

Q8: What are the causes for entry of water?
A8 : The main causes for the entry of water are shown below. Please check

them most carefully.
(1) Forgetting to install the O-ring
(2) The O-ring is partly or completely outside the groove.
(3) Damage, deterioration, or deformation of the O-ring
(4) Sand, fibers, hair or other foreign matter on the O-ring
(5) When foreign matter (sand, fiber, hair, etc.) is stuck to the O-ring

grooves or O-ring contact surfaces.
(6)

Catching of the strap, the bag of silica gel, etc. at the time of sealing the Case.
(7) Throwing the Case from a boat into the water, jumping with the Case into

the water, or other sudden application of strong forces onto the Case.

When entering the water, hand the Case over quietly or avoid impacts in

other ways.

Q9: What are the important points for O-ring maintenance?

E-39

A9 : Please observe the following items.

(1) Never use alcohol, thinner, benzene or similar organic solvents or

chemical detergents to clean the O-ring. When such chemicals are used,
it is to be feared that the O-ring will be damaged or that its deterioration
will be accelerated.

(2) Use the original Olympus silicone O-ring grease (white cap). The grease

attached to Cases up to PT-008 (red cap) and the grease of other
companies are not suitable for this silicone O-ring, and use of such
grease may cause deterioration of the surface and impairment of the
waterproof function.

(3) In order to avoid deformation of the O-ring when the Case is not used for

a long time, remove the O-ring from the Case, apply a thin coat of the
special grease, and store the O-ring in a clean plastic bag. For reuse,
confirm that the O-ring is free of damage and cracks, that it has sufficient
elasticity, that the surface is free of stickiness and other abnormalities,
and use it after applying a thin coat of the special grease. Excessive
application of grease does not improve the waterproof function or the
permissible withstand pressure. However, it may facilitate attachment of
sand, dirt, etc.

A thin, uniform coat produces the best result.
(4) The O-ring is a consumable product. Replace it at least once a year.
(5) Deterioration of the O-ring is accelerated by the use conditions and the

storage conditions. Replace the O-ring immediately by a new one if it

shows signs of damage, cracking or loss of elasticity.

Q10

:

What are the important points for Case maintenance?

A10:

Please observe the following items.
(1) Never use the following chemicals for cleaning, corrosion protection,

defogging, repair or other purposes.

• Never use alcohol, thinner, benzene or similar volatile organic solvents
or chemical detergents to clean the Case. Pure water or lukewarm water
is sufficient for cleaning.

• Do not use anticorrosion agents on the metal parts. The metal parts are
made of aluminum, brass or stainless steel. Cleaning with pure water is
sufficient.

• Do not use commercial defogging agents. Always use the original
Olympus defogging silica gel.

• Do not use adhesive for repairs or other purposes. When repair is
required, please contact a service station of our company or your dealer.

Q11

:

Please tell me about repairs.

A11:

Please contact a service station of our company or your dealer, if repair

E-40

should be necessary. Do not try to repair, disassemble or modify the
Case yourself. Repair, disassembly or modification by you or third
parties not authorized by Olympus invalidates the guarantee.

Q12

:

What are the model numbers and the prices of the PT-030 accessories?

A12:

The following accessories are available.

(1) O-ring for the PT-030 body (POL-030): This is a silicone rubber O-ring

packing to be installed in the PT-030 body to make it waterproof. O-rings
for other Case models cannot be used.

(2) Silicone O-ring grease (PSOLG-1): This is special grease for silicone O-

ring maintenance.

(3) Silica gel (SILCA-5): This is a desiccant used to prevent fogging of the

glass parts of the Case. The quantity is five bags.

(4) LCD hood (PFUD-05): This hood is installed on the LCD monitor window

of the Case to make it easier to see the LCD monitor of the camera.

(5) Balance weight for PT-030 (PWT-030): This renders the weight of the

Case under water close to the neutral buoyancy. It is environment­friendly and does not contain lead.

❈

You can order in large computer shops and camera mass sale
stores.

❈

Please contact your dealer or a service station of our company when
replacement is required. Replacement will be made against payment.

E-41

Specifications

Available models

Pressure
resistance

Main materials

Dimensions

Weight

❈ We reserve the right to change the external appearance and the

specifications without notice.

Olympus digital cameras
SP-310/SP-350

Depth of up to 40 m

Main body: Transparent polycarbonate
Buckles: Stainless steel
Grip/shutter release lever/zoom lever/mode dial knob:
Red polycarbonate
Lens window: FL reinforced glass
Lens ring/TTL cable connector cap: Aluminum
Operation buttons/Waterproof cap maintenance
adapter: Nickel-plated brass
O-rings/lens cap: Silicone rubber
LCD hood: NBR rubber

Width 133 mm x height 93.5 mm x thickness 68.5 mm
(projections not included)

316 g (LCD hood not included)

E-42

http://www.olympus.com/

¤2005

Shinjuku Monolith, 3-1 Nishi-Shinjuku 2-chome, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Two Corporate Center Drive, P.O. Box 9058, Melville, NY 11747-9058, U.S.A. Tel. [phone]

Technical Support (USA)

24/7 online automated help: http://www.olympusamerica.com/support
Phone customer support: Tel. [phone] (Toll-free)

Our phone customer support is available from 8 am to 10 pm
(Monday to Friday) ET
E-Mail: [email protected]
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Premises:Wendenstrasse 14-18, 20097 Hamburg, Germany

Tel: [phone] / Fax: [phone]
Goods delivery: Bredowstrasse 20, 22113 Hamburg, Germany
Letters: Postfach 10 49 08, 20034 Hamburg, Germany

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For all not listed European Countries and in case that you can’t get connected
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Our Technical Customer Support is available from 9 am to 6 pm MET (Monday to Friday)