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11-10-2015, 04:06 PM   #1
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ZX-5 with newer accessories

Is it possible/safe to use some DA lenses and AF 540 FGZ flash on my old ZX-5 film camera body?

11-10-2015, 06:21 PM   #2
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The AF540 should work fine. P-TTL won't work, bt the flash should default to TTL mode.
DA lenses will work in P and shutter priority mode, but not all DA lenses have an image circle large enough to cover the larger frame size.
Which lenses were you thinking of using?
11-11-2015, 03:20 AM   #3
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From you equipment listed in your signature, the DA 40mm f2,8 Limited and the DA* 55mm f1.4 SDM will work fine.

The DA 21mm f3,2 will vignette, as will the DA 18-55mm at the wider focal lengths.

Not sure about the DA 55-300mm but it may be okay at the longer focal lengths.

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Chris
11-11-2015, 06:56 AM   #4
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Also the DA*55 is one of the few autofocus lenses that is SDM only, and doesn't have a screw-drive autofocus mechanism. So you will need to focus manually on the ZX-5.

Oh, it looks like the ZX-5 has neither an exposure mode dial, nor a control dial for aperture. So when using DA lenses (which lack an aperture ring), you will be limited to P and Tv modes. Without an explicit exposure mode dial, you can't even trick the camera into using M or Av modes and accepting the lens at f/1.4, since it reads the lens as if it has an aperture ring in the "A" position, and therefore it assumes you must want to use either P or Tv mode.


Last edited by Tanzer; 11-11-2015 at 07:07 AM.
11-11-2015, 09:48 AM   #5
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OK, thanks folks. The lenses mentioned are the ones. I'll have dig out/find some older glass. I know I have a 50mm and a zoom of some sort.

---------- Post added 11-11-15 at 11:49 AM ----------

I think the sigma should work?
11-11-2015, 11:11 AM   #6
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Yes, they will work but they may vignette on the corners
I tired the 18-55 and Ifound vignetting was gone above 28mm.
11-11-2015, 02:46 PM   #7
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QuoteOriginally posted by mysterick Quote
I think the sigma should work?
It has the DG designation, so it should cover the full image circle. And it has an aperture ring so there are no restrictions on modes with the ZX-5.

11-11-2015, 06:08 PM   #8
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Thanx
11-13-2015, 08:51 AM   #9
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WELL, the DA 40mm auto focuses nicely. The bigger problem is that the mirror motor crapped out; all works until I press the shutter completely-just an "urrr" sound. I spoke with a Sanford Camera Repair technician (answered on the first ring) who convincingly diagnosed the problem. $150 he says. Dmitri has no parts. The flash is also typical. If someone wants this for parts, PM me for postage and I'll ship it. It will also come with a Sears 50mm 1:1.7 as a body cap.

Last edited by mysterick; 11-14-2015 at 08:10 AM. Reason: spelling
11-30-2015, 07:33 PM   #10
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QuoteOriginally posted by mysterick Quote
Dmitri has no parts.
Did you try Eric?

Eric Hendricson, Pentax Repair: Pentaxs.com


Steve
12-03-2015, 10:56 AM   #11
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I e-mailed him. Negative.
12-03-2015, 02:13 PM   #12
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Those models are well-known for having a plastic gear that cracks. I have an ZX-30 with the same problem, just makes a sad groaning noise. (So pull out the battery, don't leave it in.) I also have a ZX-7 that is still working fine, at least for now.

There was another thread somewhere here about the replacement part (with a brass gear) being no longer available. Sorry.

On the plus side you should be able to pick up another one of the plastic-bodied AF cameras for very cheap. They are lightweight and feel all plasticy, so most sellers don't bother asking ridiculous prices, compared to some of the older metal-bodied SLRs.
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