This document is a user manual for the Samyang Lens Manager, a software application designed for Samyang Sony E-mount AF lenses. The Lens Manager allows users to perform various adjustments and updates to their compatible Samyang lenses when connected via a Samyang Lens Station (sold separately).
Function Description
The Samyang Lens Manager serves as a comprehensive tool for managing and customizing Samyang Sony E-mount AF lenses. Its primary functions include:
- Lens Firmware Update: Users can download and install the latest firmware versions for their lenses, ensuring optimal performance and access to new features or bug fixes.
- AF Point Setting: This feature allows for fine-tuning the autofocus point of the lens, with an adjustable range of ±4. This can be crucial for achieving precise focus, especially in challenging shooting conditions or when compensating for minor manufacturing variations.
- Aperture Setting: The software enables users to adjust the operational position of the aperture blades. This setting is factory-calibrated, but the manager provides controls to reset the aperture to its starting point, and then incrementally open or close the aperture blades while visually inspecting the lens. This ensures that the aperture blades are not visible at the maximum aperture setting, which could otherwise affect image quality.
- MF Sensitivity Setting: For manual focus (MF) mode, the Lens Manager allows adjustment of the focus movement sensitivity based on the MF ring rotation speed. Users can choose between three sensitivity levels: Slow, Normal, and Fast, to suit their preferences and shooting styles.
- Lens Station Info: The software provides access to information about the connected Lens Station, including its version and a link to the user manual. It also displays the connection status of the lens via an LED lamp indicator.
Important Technical Specifications
The Samyang Lens Manager software has specific system requirements for both Windows and Mac operating systems to ensure smooth operation:
Windows:
- Operating System: Windows 7 to Windows 10
- RAM: 1GB or more
- HDD Space: 1GB or more
- Screen Resolution: 1024 x 768 or higher
- USB Port: USB 2.0 port
Mac OS:
- Operating System: Mac OS X Ver. 10.9 to 10.12
- RAM: 1GB or more
- HDD Space: 1GB or more
- Screen Resolution: 1024 x 768 or higher
- USB Port: USB 2.0 port
Hardware Requirement:
- Samyang Lens Station: A Samyang Lens Station (sold separately) is essential for using this software. The Lens Station acts as an interface between the computer and the lens.
- Lens Compatibility: The software is exclusively designed for Samyang's Sony E-mount AF lenses. It is not compatible with other lens mounts.
Usage Features
The Lens Manager is designed for user-friendly operation with a clear interface.
Preparation:
- Mono Installation: Before running the Lens Manager, users must install Mono, a cross-platform implementation of Microsoft's .NET Framework. The manual provides a download link for Mono.
- Software Download: The Lens Manager software (LensManager_Mac.zip for Mac) can be downloaded from the Samyang Optics global homepage.
- Connection: Connect the Samyang Lens Station to the computer via a USB cable, and then mount the compatible Samyang Sony E-mount AF lens onto the Lens Station.
- Program Execution: Double-click the "LensManager.sh.command" file (on Mac) in the program folder to launch the application.
Lens Connection Setting:
- Upon launching, the software requires users to select the correct COM Port from the Device Manager (for USB Serial Port) and click the "Lens Conn." button.
- A successful connection will transition the screen to the firmware update page, displaying information about the connected lens.
Firmware Update Process:
- Download Firmware: Obtain the latest lens firmware file from the Samyang Optics homepage.
- Load Firmware File: Use the "Load Lens F/W File" button in the software to select the downloaded firmware file. A pop-up window will confirm successful selection.
- Initiate Update: Click the "Firmware Update" button.
- Acknowledge Cautions: Read and confirm the cautions displayed in a pop-up window.
- Monitor Progress: The software will display a progress bar during the update.
- Completion: Once the update is complete, click "OK." The screen will return to the Lens Connection Setting page.
- Verify Update: Reconnect the lens to verify the updated firmware version on the Firmware Update page.
AF Point Setting:
- The AF point can be adjusted within a range of ±4 using a slider or numerical input.
- Users can save their preferred AF point setting to the lens.
Aperture Setting:
- The aperture setting range is between -5 and 10.
- The displayed value on the Aperture Setting page reflects the current factory-set value.
- Setting Order:
- Click "Reset" to move the aperture to its starting point.
- Use "OPEN (+)" and "CLOSE (-)" buttons to adjust the aperture position, visually checking the lens aperture until the blades are no longer visible at the maximum aperture.
- Click "Save" to store the new setting on the lens.
MF Sensitivity Setting:
- Select "Slow," "Normal," or "Fast" sensitivity levels for manual focus.
- Click "Save" to apply the chosen sensitivity to the lens.
Maintenance Features
While the manual doesn't explicitly detail "maintenance features" in the traditional sense (e.g., cleaning instructions), the software itself provides tools that contribute to the ongoing optimal performance and longevity of the lens:
- Firmware Updates: Regularly updating the lens firmware is a key maintenance activity. It ensures the lens operates with the latest algorithms, bug fixes, and compatibility improvements, which can prevent issues and extend the useful life of the lens.
- AF Point and Aperture Calibration: The ability to adjust the AF point and aperture position allows users to fine-tune their lenses, potentially correcting minor deviations that might occur over time or due to environmental factors. This calibration capability helps maintain the lens's optical precision.
Cautions for Firmware Update (Important Maintenance Considerations):
- Power Supply: Always use a fully charged battery or connect the AC adapter to the PC during firmware updates to prevent power interruptions.
- Lens Handling: Do not remove the lens from the Lens Station or press any detachment buttons while the firmware update is in progress.
- PC Operation: Do not turn off the PC during the update.
- Software Interaction: Avoid changing lens settings within the software while a firmware update is being carried out.
These cautions highlight critical steps to prevent damage to the lens or corruption of its firmware during updates, which is a vital aspect of digital lens maintenance.
The "Lens Station Info" feature, by providing version information, also aids in maintenance by allowing users to confirm they are using the correct and up-to-date Lens Station hardware and software. The LED lamp indicator for connection status helps in troubleshooting basic connectivity issues.
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