Sigma 579 DATASHEET

ENGLISH

Thank you very much for purchasing a Sigma Lens. In order to get the maximum
performance and enjoyment out of your Sigma lens, please read this instruction booklet
thoroughly before you start to use the lens.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PARTS (fig.1)

 Filter Attachment Thread
 Focus Ring
 Distance Scale
 Focus Index Line

 Zoom Ring
 Focus Mode Switch

(Sigma SA and Canon AF only)

 Mount

NIKON AF TYPE CAMERAS

This lens functions in the same way as a G Type auto-focus Nikon lens (without an aperture
ring). Functions may be restricted depending on the lens/camera combination. For more
details, please refer to the camera’s instruction manual.

ATTACHING TO CAMERA BODY

When this lens is attached to the camera body it will automatically function in the same way
as the camera manufacturer’s lens. Please refer to the instruction booklet for your camera
body.

◆ On the lens mount surface, there are a number of couplers and electrical contacts.

Please keep them clean to ensure proper connection.

◆ While changing the lens, be sure to place it front end down to avoid damaging the rear

mount.

SETTING THE EXPOSURE MODE

The Sigma lens functions automatically once attached to the camera. Please refer to the
camera instruction book.

FOCUSING AND ZOOMING

This lens features Sigma’s built-in Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM). The HSM enables quick and
quiet autofocusing. For autofocus operation, set the focus mode switch on the lens to “AF”
position (fig.2) (Select the autofocus mode on your camera body for Nikon AF). If you wish
to focus manually, set the focus mode switch on the lens to the “MF” position (for Nikon AF,
select the manual focus mode on your camera body as you would do normally). Manual
focus can be achieved by turning the focus ring.

◆ This lens also permits manual focusing even in the autofocus mode. With the camera

set to the One-Shot AF (AF-S) mode, it is possible to manually override the autofocus
while the shutter release button is pressed halfway.

◆ The viewfinders of some Nikon AF cameras have indicators to display the focus status.
The “● ” symbol indicates that correct focus has been set, “
set in front of the subject, and “
this AF lens is used with Nikon AF cameras in MF mode, please adjust the lens’ focus
until the “● ” symbol is visible.

◆ When operating this lens in manual focus mode, it is recommended that correct focus be
confirmed visually in the viewfinder rather than relying on the distance scale. This is
due to possible focus shift resulting from extreme changes in temperature which cause
various components in the lens to expand and contract. Special allowance is made for
this at the infinity setting.

《Zooming》

Rotate the Rubber grip on the zoom ring to the desired position.

◄” indicates that focus is set behind the subject. When

 Tripod Socket
 Lens Hood

► ” indicates that focus is

TRIPOD SOCKET AND COLLAR

This lens has a detachable tripod socket. When the locking knob on the collar is loosened,
the lens and camera can rotate freely to easily position the camera horizontally or vertically
(fig. 3).
To remove the tripod collar from the lens, first loosen and then disengage the locking knob.
(fig. 4)

FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

The camera’s built-in flash will cause barrel shadow if used with this lens. For best results,
please only use an external flash unit.

DEPTH OF FIELD SCALE

The depth of field scale helps you to check the depth of field (the zone of sharpness) of
your composition. For example in figure (5), the depth of field zone is shown when the
aperture F16 is used.

◆ The depth of field scale can be used at a focal length of 70mm only.

ABOUT TELE CONVERTERS

The lens can be used with Sigma’s 1.4x EX or 2.0x EX Apo Tele Converters (optional),
becoming a 98-280mmF4 Autofocus telephoto zoom lens or a 140-400mm F5.6 Autofocus
telephoto zoom lens respectively.

◆ Do not use other manufacturers’ teleconverter’s, only those listed above are compatible.

◆ We recommend the DG APO Tele-Converters when using with DSLR cameras.

LENS HOOD

A bayonet type detachable `hood is provided with the lens. This lens hood helps to
prevent flare and ghosted images caused by extraneous light. Attach the hood and turn
clockwise until it stops rotating. (fig.6)

◆ In order to place the lens and hood into the storage case, you must first remove the
hood, then replace it on the lens in the reverse position. (fig.7)

FILTER

◆ Only one filter should be used at a time. Two or more filters and/or special, thicker
filters, such as a polarizing filter, may cause vignetting.

◆ When using a polarizing filter with an AF camera, use the “circular” type.

BASIC CARE AND STORAGE

◆ Avoid any shocks or exposure to extreme high or low temperatures or to humidity.

◆ For extended storage, choose a cool and dry place, preferably with good ventilation. To

avoid damage to the lens coating, keep away from mothballs or naphthalene gas.

◆ Do not use thinner, benzine or other organic cleaning agents to remove dirt or finger
prints from the lens elements. Clean by using a soft, moistened lens cloth or lens
tissue.

◆ This lens is not waterproof. When using the lens in the rain or near water, prevent it
from getting wet. It is often impractical to repair the internal mechanism, lens elements
and electric components damaged by water.

◆ Sudden temperature changes may cause condensation or fog to appear on the surface
of the lens. W hen entering a warm room from the cold outdoors, it is advisable to keep
the lens in the case until the temperature of the lens approaches room temperature.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Lens construction 15 – 18
Angle of View 34.3 – 12.3°
Minimum Aperture 22
Minimum Focusing Distance 1m (3.28 ft)
Magnification 1:3.5
Filter Size 77mm
Dimensions Dia.×Length 86.6×184.4mm (3.41×7.26 in)
Weight 1345g (47.4 oz)

Dimensions and weight include the SIGMA mount.

SIGMA (Deutschland) GmbH Carl-Zeiss-Str. 10/2, D-63322 Rödermark, F.R.GERMANY

The CE Mark is a Directive conformity mark of the European
Community (EC).

Verkauf: 01805-90 90 85-0 Service: 01805-90 90 85-85 Fax: [phone]