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service mode - Panasonic g7 (awesome camera)

Started Jan 15, 2018 | Questions thread
Wasabi Bob Contributing Member • Posts: 680
Re: service mode - Panasonic g7 (awesome camera)

Having worked for a service center I'm sharing info I have from experience. When a tech services the camera for any problem that's not cosmetic or mechanical, the first thing the tech does is  to download the camera alignment data. This procedure is not included in the service manual that you can find on line. However, if you read through the manual carefully it will instruct you to "reload the camera data" (that was previously exported.)

If you don't, the camera reverts to using generic alignment data that is loaded into every camera's main PCB at the time of manufacturing. This allows the camera to be powered up and aligned much faster than having to load firmware into every camera for the first time during the final alignment steps. The data includes AF / Color and Shutter Speed accuracy. The initial settings are "close", but definitely not spot on. More significant is the fact that when you enter this mode and don't complete the procedure you set a "flag" that tells the servicer that you've been playing with the camera. This will void your warranty if the problem the camera was sent in for triggers them to check this flag.

Service modes are hidden for good reasons, so I don't feel sorry for anyone who goes poking their nose where it should not be. It's very easy to transform your camera into an expensive paperweight.

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