Polaroid Miniportrait 204, Miniportrait 404 Repair Manual

Repair Manual

Americas Business Center

Technical Services

201 Burlington Road

Bedford MA 01730

TEL: [phone]

FAX: [phone]

Miniportrait 204/404

May 1997

Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

Contents

Purpose of this Manual..................................... 3

Organization of this Manual.............................. 3

Other Documents Required for Repair............. 3

List of Illustrations............................................. 4

1. Description and Operation .......................... 5

2. Troubleshooting .......................................... 23

3. Parts Replacement...................................... 34

4. Schematics.................................................. 57

About this Manual

This manual applies to both the Model 204 and 404 cameras. Differences
between these two models will be noted throughout the document.

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

Purpose of this Manual

This manual is intended as a reference guide for Polaroid and Polaroid
authorized technical personnel repairing the Polaroid Model 204/404
MiniPortrait Camera.

Organization of this Repair Manual

Description and Operation. General information about camera features,

capabilities, applications and operating instructions.

Troubleshooting. Function tables for diagnosing problems.
Parts Replacement. Step-by-step procedures for replacing system assemblies

and components.
Schematics. Electronic schematics to isolate problems and assist in component

replacement.

Other Documents Required for Repair

In addition to this manual, repair requires the use of the Polaroid Model 204/404
MiniPortrait Camera Parts Catalog.

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

List of Illustrations

Section 1. Description and Operation

Figure 1-1 Rear (Operational) View .......................................................................8

Figure 1-2 Front View ............................................................................................8

Section 3. Parts Replacement

Figure 3-1 Removing the Front/Rear Housing .......................................................36

Figure 3-2 Unplugging the Electrical Connectors ..................................................37

Figure 3-3 Replacing the Aiming Light....................................................................40

Figure 3-4 Adjusting the Aiming Light.....................................................................40

Figure 3-5 Replacing the Strobe Assembly ............................................................41

Figure 3-6 Removing the Shutter Assembly............................................................42

Figure 3-7 Replacing the Solenoid(s).....................................................................44

Figure 3-8 Solenoid/Shutter Blade Orientation ......................................................45

Figure 3-9 Removing the Baffle .............................................................................47

Figure 3-10 Removing the Pull Film Switch ...........................................................47

Figure 3-11 Checking Switch Position with Go/No-Go Gauge................................48

Figure 3-12 Replacing the Load Film Sensor ........................................................50

Figure 3-13 Logic Board Screws and Connectors .................................................52

Figure 3-14 Power Board Screws and Connectors.................................................54

Figure 3-15 LCD Display Board Removal...............................................................55

Figure 3-16 Replacing the Capacitor......................................................................56

Section 4. Schematics

Logic Board.............................................................................................................58

Power Board ...........................................................................................................59

Harness Diagram....................................................................................................60

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

Section 1. Description and Operation

Important Safety Instructions ................................................................................6

A. General Description..........................................................................................7

B. Camera Components........................................................................................8

C. Camera Features............................................................................................10

D. Operating Instructions....................................................................................13

(1) Work area requirements...........................................................................13

(2) Preparing the camera for making ID photos.............................................13

(3) Making ID photos .....................................................................................16

(4) Programming the camera.........................................................................19

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

Important Safety Instructions

When using the camera, always follow these basic safety precautions:

• Read and understand all instructions before setting up and using the system.

• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near

children. Do not leave the camera unattended while in use.

• Do not operate the camera with a damaged cord, or when it has been
dropped or damaged, until it has been examined by a qualified service
person.

• Position the cord so that it will not be tripped over, pulled, or in contact with
hot or sharp surfaces.

• If an extension cord is necessary, a UL recognized grounded cord with a
rating at least equal to that of the camera should be used.

• Always turn the camera OFF before unplugging.

• Always unplug the camera from the electrical outlet when not in use, and

before cleaning and servicing. Never pull the cord from the outlet. Grasp
and pull the cord from the outlet to disconnect.

• To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not immerse the camera in water or
other liquids and do not operate outdoors in inclement weather.

CAUTION

The film used by this camera contains a caustic jelly that is safely
packed inside the film pack. If you should accidentally get some of
this jelly on your skin, wipe it off immediately and wash the area with
plenty of water as soon as possible. Under all circumstances, keep
the jelly away from the mouth and eyes. Keep discarded materials
out of reach of children and animals, and out of contact with clothing
and furniture, as discarded materials still contain caustic jelly
residue.

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

A. General Description

The Polaroid Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera is a new, optical cut-and-paste
camera that features the unique combination of programmability, low cost, and
exceptional ease-of-use.

Features include programmable LCD graphic display of step-by-step operational
prompts, power-on memory, battery capability, counters for strobe flashes and
packs used, key switch, tripod mount, converging light rangefinder, sync circuit
system with ON/OFF switch, and removable film holder for black-and-white and
color films.

The system consists of a camera head, camera base and AC/DC adapter. The
camera head pivots so that it can swing down into the camera base for storage
and transport, and swing up for picture-taking.

The camera can be positioned either 40 inches from the subject for a larger
head size, or 60 inches from the subject for a smaller head size. At 60 inches, a
supplementary lens is required for proper focus.

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

B. Camera Components

Refer to these illustrations as you proceed through the following sections:

Preparing the camera for making ID photos, Making ID photos, and
Programming the camera.

A

P

R

BQ

C

O
N

Polaroid

40 60 4060

G

Caution

Attention

0

I

M

L

K

J

Figure 1-1 Rear (Operational) View

D
E

F

G
H

I

S

V

Polaroid

Figure 1-2 Front View

8

T

UU

Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

Rear View Callouts

Call-out Component

A Display Screen
B Program/Power Button
C Shutter Button
D UP Cursor Symbol
E Menu Symbol
F Camera Back
G Aim Light Adjustment Lever
H Camera ON/OFF Switch
I Release Knob
J Locking Knob
K Strobe Switch
L Flash Sync Socket
M Power Cord Socket
N DOWN Cursor Symbol
O EXIT PROGRAM Cursor

Symbol
P Aiming Button
Q Brightener Button
R Dark Slide

Front View Callouts

S Strobe
T Lenses
U Aim Lights

V Aperture Adjustment

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

C. Camera Features

Picture version

Totally programmable

Graphic display

Voltages

Battery capability
Low power indicator

Low battery protection

There are two camera versions. The Model 204
makes 2 images per film frame; the Model 404
makes 4 images per film frame. Both use Type
669 film.

Allows operator to program all functions needed
for operation of ID program.

Display guides operator through all
programming and operating functions.

AC/DC adapter operates on 115 or 90 - 250-volt
wall unit.

Operates on 12-volt battery supply.
A low battery icon will appear on the graphic

display and an audio beep will inform the
operator of need to charge or replace battery.

Automatically shuts down if low battery indicator
is ignored, preventing damage to the camera’s
microprocessor.

Variable aperture
Variable exposure

Strobe boost

Strobe count

Pack count

Out of film sensor

Adjustable aperture for different film speeds.
Programmable strobe brightness setting for

exposure in all lighting conditions.
Strobe boost (brightener) button will enhance

brightness by 1/2 stop for one picture without
changing exposure setting.

Counts all strobe flashes. The number will be
displayed in Program Mode; used for tracking
the number of photos produced.

Counts the number of film packs used. Used for
determining/controlling film usage.

Sensor alerts the operator when camera is out
of film.

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

Language

Development time

Select capability

Timer

Memory

Auto shut off

Camera display can be programmed to read in
English, Spanish, French, or Italian. Language
can be customized for large volumes.

Development time can be programmed from
thirty (30) seconds to one hundred and ninety
(190) seconds to accommodate all types of film.

Allows the operator to select:
One or two subjects with the 204 camera

One, two or four subjects with 404 camera
Built-in timer will timeout after the film is pulled;

audible beeps signal the operator when the film
is fully developed.

If the camera is turned off during picture-taking,
the existing sequence continues when turned on
again. By not resetting, film waste is prevented.

Camera can be programmed to do the following:

1) Shut off automatically if unused for 10
minutes, or 2) Shut off automatically if unused
for 20 minutes, or 3) Remain on until camera
power is turned off.

Converging lights
viewfinder/rangefinder

Key switch

Tripod mount

Converging flashing light beams allow the
operator to set the proper camera-to-subject
distance, and center the subject in the photo.

Allows power to be turned on or off without
unplugging the camera. Key can be removed to
prevent unauthorized use.

With insert adapter: Standard 1/4-20 screw
mount for desk stand or tripod.

With adapter removed: 3/8-16 screw mount.

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

Electronic sync with ON ­OFF switch

Removable camera back

PC type external X sync connector. Design
allows use of auxiliary flash strobe with option of
turning camera flash strobe ON or OFF.

Dedicated interchangeable camera back (with
removable dark slide).

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

D. Operating Instructions

(1) Work area requirements

• Work area of at least 8 x 10 feet; avoid exposure to extreme temperatures
(avoid doors, windows, etc.).

• Table to support camera; 29 - 30 inches (76 cm) high.

• Electrical outlet (ground where applicable).

• Wastebasket.

• Non-reflective (felt or velvet) backdrop to place behind subject; backdrop

should be at least 30 inches (76 cm) square.

• Chair for subject to sit in; should be 17 - 18 inches (45 cm) high.

(2) Preparing the camera for making ID photos

Note: Throughout this section, component names are followed by a letter in parenthesis. This
letter refers to the component location as depicted in Figures 1-1 and 1-2.

1. Place the camera on the table.

2. Pull out the silver release knob (I) on the
side of the camera base, and while holding it
out, grasp the camera head firmly and swing
it into the upright position. The knob will
click in when the camera is fully upright.

Note: The camera is pivoted to the lower position for
storage and transport.

40 60 4060

0

I

I

3. Tighten the black locking knob (J) under the
camera to prevent it from moving on the
camera base.

Note: If for any reason it is necessary to remove the
camera from the base, unscrew the black knob

completely.

40 60 4060

0

I

J

4. Place the backdrop on the wall and position
a chair in front of the backdrop.

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

5. Adjust the camera-to-subject distance.
Place a subject in the chair and measure 40
inches from the camera lenses to the
subject’s chin. This may be approximate
since the final rangefinder adjustment is
made with the aiming lights during picture­taking.

Note: For distances of 60 inches, adjustments can be
made during picture-taking by simply moving the
camera back 20 inches and making final adjustments

with the aiming lights.

6. Plug one end of the AC Adapter into the
power cord socket (M) of the camera and the
other end into the power source. Or, use the
optional 12 volt battery.

40 60 4060

0

I

M

7. Power up the camera by turning the key (H)
clockwise 90° to the ON position (shown by
arrow). Make sure the AC outlet is
grounded.

8. Adjust the aperture (V) for the recommended
f/stop setting. Refer to table at right.

0

I

H

44

64

11

16

22

32

f . . . . . .

Film Speed Aperture

ASA 80 f/11-1/2
ASA 100 f/11-1/2
ASA 125 f/16
ASA 3000 f/64

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

9. Set the Aim Light Adjustment Lever (G) for
the proper camera to subject distance; 40
inches for larger image or 60 inches for
smaller image size.

Note: Photos taken at 60 inches require a special
accessory lens.

10. Turn the Strobe Switch (K) to the ON (up)
position.

Note: If using an auxiliary flash, turn the Strobe Switch
to the OFF (down) position; plug the flash into the
Flash Sync Socket (L) of the camera.

11. Remove the camera’s dark slide (R)

40 60 4060

40 60 4060

G

L

K

0

I

0

I

R

GG

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Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

(3) Making ID photos

1. Power up the camera by turning the key (H)
clockwise 90° (as shown by arrow).

A LOAD FILM message appears in the
Display Screen (A).

2. Load the film into the Camera Back (F).
A PULL FILM message appears in the

Display Screen. Also, a “1” (indicating first
film frame) is visible in the upper left corner.

Note: If a partially used film pack is inserted, a
READY message is displayed.

0

I

H

LOAD FILM

1

PULL FILM

3. Pull the film safety cover; a white tab will be
visible.

A READY message appears in the Display
Screen and the first image blinks.

Note: The imaging format for each frame depends on
the PICTURE SELECT menu explained in the next
section. For example, four different images, four
identical images, or, two double images.

4. Prior to taking ID photos, access the
Program Mode to make appropriate camera
adjustments. Begin by pressing the
Program/Power Button (B).

16

1

READY

Blinking

B

Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

4. Continued

COUNTS

The program menu (at right) will appear.

Note: For details about each adjustment screen, refer
to the next section, “Programming the camera”.

EXPOSURE FILM
PICTURE SELECT 000380
DEVELOPMENT TIME
RESET COUNTS STROBE
LANGUAGE 001139
AUTO SHUT OFF
EXIT

5. Check to make sure the camera aperture is
set according to the film type being used.

6. Aim the camera as follows:
Press the Aiming Button (P) and the Aiming

Light will come on; it will blink for
approximately 15 seconds. Center the
converging light spots on the subject’s chin
for proper framing.

Note: Once the Aiming Light goes out, the Shutter
Button is deactivated and a picture cannot be taken
until the Aiming Light Button is pressed again.

7. Press the Shutter Button (C) to take the
picture.

Film Film Speed Aperture

T669 ASA 80 f/11 1/2
T100 ASA 100 f/11 1/2
T667 ASA 3000 f/64

P

Converging light
beams

While the strobe is recharging, a WAIT
message is displayed.

A READY message informs the operator that
the second picture on the frame can now be
taken. Also, the next image blinks.

17

C

1

WAIT

1

READY

Blinking

Repair Manual Model 204/404 MiniPortrait Camera

7. Continued
Continue taking pictures until each photo on

the frame is taken.

When all photos are taken, a PULL FILM
message appears and all four image boxes
are solid.

Note: If the subject has a dark complexion, more
illumination can be provided by pressing the
Brightener Button (Q) just prior to taking the photo. It
is activated for one photo only.

A starburst (shown at right) informs the operator that
the Image Brightener is activated for that photo.

8. Pull the film from the camera; first the white
tab, then the yellow tab. A READY message
is displayed. Also, a “2” (indicating the
second frame about to be taken) appears in
the upper left corner.

1

PULL FILM

1

1 2

Blinking

Q

READY

Blinking

READY

Lay the picture frame on a flat surface while
developing. Audible beeps will signal when
development is complete.

After development, separate the print from
the negative.

18