How to Clean a CCD Camera

Dust on your camera lens can ruin your best photographs. To remove this dust, you'll need to clean off the CCD sensor of the camera so it can take dust-free photographs. This is a tricky procedure and should be done carefully to avoid damaging the camera. Once you're done, your camera will be as good as new.

Things You'll Need

• Air blower
• Sensor brush

Instructions

1. Plug the camera in. If the batteries were to die while you're cleaning, the camera will automatically close on your cleaning tools and will need expensive repairs

2. Read your camera's manual to find out how to lock the mirror and hold open the shutter. It may be a custom function on your camera, and your manual will describe how to do this. Each camera is slightly different.

3. Use an air blower to blow air onto the mirror to clean off larger particles of dust. Do not stick the air blower inside the camera. If the camera closes, or the mirror moves, it will scratch it. A foot-powered air pump works well.

4. Use a sensor brush to clean the camera's sensor. Only use a sensor brush if this is not the first time the camera has been cleaned. Move the brush gently from left to right, take it out and spray it off with the air brush, then stroke the sensor again. Repeat this until the sensor appears clean.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are not confident that you can clean your camera without scratching it, take it to a professional.

• Do not leave the mirror locked and shutter open for a long period of time, or more dust and particles will collect on it.

References

• Cleaning CCD