Please help. Am I neurotic, or is it a big problem?

[boredoftherings]

I just got my EX1 today. I have a question about the servo zoom/manual zoom. I didn't realize that you have to push a button to switch in between each mode. I thought you could just use it manually and then use the servo without having to push a button. As such, I manually zoomed a few times while the camera was is servo mode. It would zoom, but it was jerky and not smooth. I quickly put it into manually zoom and now know the difference between the two modes, but am worried I damaged something. I doubt it, as it seems to zoom fine in both SZ and MZ. I read the warning instructions before use, and I didn't see any indicators saying using manual zoom in servo zoom mode would hurt the camera. I hope it's just my mind working over time. I'm always like this with new gear. Always afraid one tiny little mistake will bring the device in question to its technological demise. Please, someone assuage my fears.

 

[matthew77]

I think we've all made that mistake and will continue to do so from time to time.

I doubt it will damage the camera unless done excessively and with excessive force.

I am sure Sony considered this in the design of the EX1. Though I agree, it doesn't sound pretty when you do it.

Anyway, even if you did hurt the camera (which you didn't), they are repairable! In normal use it's going to get banged up from time to time - may as well accept the fact that it might be in the shop once or twice while you own it.

 

[hoarp001]

Yeah I did it by mistake yesterday on a hired EX1. The jerking movement is the gears notching over. I only moved it one or two teeth and I changed the mode and it was fine after that. You will get used to it.

Congratulations on getting one of these, they are brilliant cameras....