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Article ID : 00113167 / Last Modified : 03/29/2019Print

Clean Dust Particles or Smudges From the Surface of the Image Sensor

    WARNING! There is a risk of hardware damage. Do not use a dry cloth or commercial cleaning solution to remove dust particles or smudges from the surface of the image sensor. Doing so may cause the coating on the image sensor to peel off. Sony is not liable for any incidental or consequential damage due to mishandling at non-Sony service locations.

    There are two ways to clean dust off the image sensor. You can use the Cleaning Mode in the camera menu to let the sensor shake the dust off. You can also detach the lens and use a hand-held camera cleaning blower to manually blow away any dust particles from the surface of the image sensor. If there are smudges of any kind on the sensor, we recommend that a professional camera shop clean it.

    IMPORTANT:

    • Some camera models doesn't show a noticeable vibration when Cleaning Mode is enabled.
    • For A-mount cameras it is necessary to raise the mirror before manually cleaning the sensor.
    • Do not touch the surface of the mirror or blow on it too hard.
    • Check your manual for model-specific information about cleaning the camera sensor. Manuals are posted on your model support page.
    • There are many third-party kits available on the market that can be used to clean the image sensor. Check your local electronics or professional camera shop for availability.
    • Many camera shops also professional cleaning services that may be performed in a timely manner.

    Materials needed

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    • Blower (1) - Use to remove dust and debris from the body and from inside the camera. We recommend a plain blower instead of a brush blower, etc.
      • Plain blower - Squeeze the bulb with your fingers to force the air out. You can easily adjust the air pressure.

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      • Brush blower - This can be used as both blower and brush. When using a brush blower with a removable brush, remove the brush when using it as a blower. This prevents dust on the brush being blown onto the camera.

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    • Brush (2) - Use to remove dust from the camera body and lens. We recommend that you use both large and small brushes for the lens.

    VIDEO: How to clean the image sensor of E-Mount Cameras.

    Clean the Sensor

    1. Use a brush to gently sweep dust and debris on the exterior of the camera. Use a smaller brush on delicate parts of the camera.

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    2. Use a blower on hard to reach exterior parts of the camera.

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    3. Take the front lens cap off, and blow the dust off the lens surface.

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    4. Replace the front lens cap to prevent dust from attaching to the lens.
    5. Press the lens release button, and detach the lens.

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    6. With the camera slightly facing downward, use the blower to blow dust and debris off. Make sure that the blower tip doesn't touch the lens mount or the image sensor.

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    7. Reattach the lens.

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      Note:

      • Attach the lens while holding the camera body horizontally to avoid dusts from getting inside the camera again.
      • For A-mount cameras, make sure that the mirror has been completely pushed down before attaching the lens.
      • Take the lens off and on in a dust-free location. Dust and debris may easily enter the camera and lens in a dusty location.

      Note:

    8. Once you're done cleaning, check if the dust was removed successfully.
      1. Set the shooting mode to Aperture Priority (A), and the aperture value to 11.
      2. Take a picture of a white wall, white paper, or the sky.
      3. Make sure that no dust shows on the image.

    If the issue is still unresolved, the product may need to be repaired.  Go to Product Repair. 

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