AC130: AC130 Automatic ND Filter?

[tylerdlugolecki]

Hello,

So I've had the ac130 for about 2 weeks now and I've been essentially reading as much as I can about this camera before I use it for any weddings/events. One problem I keep running into while testing the camera are these red and green screens that show up when I start the camera. It looks like the ND filter is on but the switch is off(as you can see in the red screen example). While it is red the ND 1/4 flashes on the screen(as pictured). Since I'm rather knew to Panasonic and this level of camera I would assume it is an error on my behalf. What perplexes me though, is the fact that it will be normal until I turn off and back on. After it comes back on the picture shows up as red regardless of any settings adjustment. When I turn off then back on again, I get a green overlay. Eventually the picture goes back to normal after shutting off and back on a few times. This has happened on two separate occasions. It records to the card in that tint so it isn't the LCD or vf.

Again, it's probably my own error but I want to make sure just to be safe. Any help would be great.

 

[Barry_Green]

That's not normal. I would ask your dealer about it, because it certainly isn't supposed to do that and I can't think of any error on your part that could make such behavior happen.

 

[LampoFilm]

I am wondering why the ND filter 1/4 flashes. Can you tell us where you are doing the testing. Outside, or somewhere bright? Does this error happen in a normal room light setting? Did you add anything like a filter or lens uv filter? Can you make this error happen anytime, or does it happen at different times?
Did this happen from day one of testing, or did it happen after you played with all the buttons and effect?

I never had this happen to my camera, but I did have a different problem and sent back the camera.
I want to wait after the second shipment and see if Panasonic will offer fixes for auto-focus before I buy again.

Don't wait to long to contact customer support. They are helpful and should take care of you.
Good Luck.

 

[tylerdlugolecki]

I've spent 3 different occasions playing with the camera. Two times in my (normally lit) living room and once in an arena setting shooting a football game. During each session there was a point where I turned the camera off and back on and got this same result. I've really only been playing with the white balance and focus ring/focus assist. I've been using both the manual and all auto settings. When the filters show up, no settings I adjust will remove them. The only thing that gets them to go away is turning the camera off for a few minutes. I've read that there is a natural light sensor that helps with the ATW function. Could this light sensor be telling the camera to use the ND filter automatically?

By contacting my dealer, do you suggest I call the place I bought it from(AVAlive) or call Panasonic?

 

[Mike Warren]

By contacting my dealer, do you suggest I call the place I bought it from(AVAlive) or call Panasonic?

I suggest you call the store you bought it from. If you are unhappy with how they are handling the situation, then you could try Panasonic. It does look like a fault with the camera to me, based on your description.

 

[ELN614]

Based on your description I say return it for a new one.
If that can't happen get it fixed. Be sure to document the problem on video so if the technician can't duplicate it, perhaps the video will help him. Or just prove your not 'seeing' things.