Nikon N4004 Decision Master System Vintage Camera User Guide

N4004 Decision Master System Vintage Camera

Nikon
N –+-
DECISION MASTER SYSTEM
Technical Guide

Nikon
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The Nikon N4004 autofocus SLR, with its point-and-shoot sim-

plicity plus its selection of high-performance features, appeals

to a very broad market segment.

The latest autofocus technology enables the N4004 to auto-

focus even in dim candlelight and to discern even minute details

for fast and accurate operation. Combined with the alternative

of manual focus, this enables the N4004 to assure super-sharp

pictures – quickly, easily and consistently.

.

Point-and-shoot programmed exposure automatIOn appeals

not only to beginners but anyone who wants to take superior

pictures – quickly, easily and automatically.

The N4004’s high-performance features, including shutter-

priority auto, aperture-priority auto, and manual exposure modes,

appeal to more advanced photographers, giving them opportuni-

ties for creative control.

Built-in accessories such as auto TIL flash and motor drive

provide added convenience that anyone will apr~cite.

.

Using AF Nikkor lenses, the N4004 produces high-quality

pictures second to none! It even enables use of AI series lenses

for manual operation. .

.

To create the N4004, Nikon designed a completely new hlgh-

performance system, different from all other autofocus SLRs.

Nikon calls it Decision Master System. And it sets new stan-

dards for both automatic and creative photography.

Please read through this Nikon Technical Guide. It includes

all the information you need to thoroughly understand how the

N4004 operates and why it will become one of the most impor-

tant cameras in today’s market.

WHAT KIND OF CUSn’E

Amateurs who want simple operation

The Nikon N4004 is the first fully featured automatic single-lens reflex

camera that is just as easy to use as any point-and-shoot compact

autofocus. Yet it provides all the potential for the creativity and better

pictures of an SLR.

.

In the most automatic mode, program auto exposure with autofocus

operation, you can just point-and-shoot. The N40q4 won’t let you t~ke a

bad picture. The built-in motor and the pow~r re~lnd. take care of film

operation. Film speed is set via the OX coding; film IS loaded and ad-

vanced to frame #1 automatically. Press the shutter release : focus

is automatic, exposure is set automatically. If the lighting i~n’t

right, the N4004 finder’s graphic display signals you to activate

the built-in flash. Daylight or flash, indoors or

out, everything is automatic and as easy

as a compact autofocus camera!

More advanced

photographers

With dual program auto, aperture-

priority auto, shutter-priority auto

and manual control, there’s literally no

scene aphotographer can’t capture.

Decision Master System

Nikon’s new Decision Master System assures total camera con-

trol – and no other camera has it. This unique optoelectronic

system integrates advanced camera and lens computers for fully

automatic control of all camera and lens operations. Even such

advanced techniques as exposure compensation and balanced

fill-flash are carried out automatically! With automatic controls

taking care of complex calculations, Decision Master System makes

picture-taking easier, more fun, more rewarding and mistak~-prof.

With all its automation, the Nikon N4004 offers many hlgh-

performance features that enhance personal creativity, from a

choice of three auto exposure modes plus manual exposure to

automatic or manual focusing with electronic confirmation.

At the core of Decision Master System is a high-technology

autofocus breakthrough: Nikon’s newly developed AM200 sensor

module with 200 CCDs (Charge Coupled Devices) – more than

I any other autofocus SLR. The AM200 assures quick, precise
focusing, even at low light levels, pinpointing details even the

human eye finds difficult to detect.

Add unique

to this Nikon’s advanced triple-sensor light meter

-auwtohicehxpaosssuureresinnop~imu ovation

– the expo-

sure even under difficult conditions. Plus – for the firs! time In

any camera – a built-in auto TIL flash with balanced fill-flash

capability that makes professional results available to everyone automatically.

”
— – ‘-….

–

Achoice of autofocus or manual focus adds to the N4004’s potential.

The built-in auto TTL flash is fast and convenient. The built-in hot shoe

lets you expand flash photography with Nikon’s optional speedlights,

providing bounce flash, selectable flash coverage angle, more powerful

balanced fill-flash, and an AF illuminator for autofocus in the dark!

Interchangeable lenses, using the fast-expanding line of superb qual-

ity AF Nikkor autofocus lenses, provide complete automation with picture

quality of Nikon renown. You can even use AI-type lenses for manual

operation. System integrity for the Nikon owner is maintained!

-=~

It’s for everyone

The more you look at and use the Nikon

N4004, the more you realize that

this is the first SLR that completely

answers the needs of the broadest

range of photographic interest;

from beginners to amateurs to

advanced enthusiasts, the Nikon

N4004 provides it all, from

enjoyable simplicity to

creative excellence. It’s

for everyone!

DEcISION MAsTER SYSTEM
1. Superior Autofocus The N4004 with Decision Master System uses an all-new, Nikon-designed autofocus sensor, the AM200, that is so advanced and so sensitive, it detects minute details other autofocus SLRs have ahard time focusing – even in dim candlelight.
The N4004 autofocus is super fast thanks to its enhanced total autofocus system, and mistake-proof because Decision Master System releases the shutter only when the subject is in focus. 2. Triple-sensor auto exposure metering Dividing the scene into three segments for measurement, Decision Master System computes the optimum exposure value for every lighting condition. This results in superbly exposed pictures everytime. 3. Built-in auto TTL flash The N4004 ’sbuilt-in auto TIL flash is very convenient. It’s always there when you need it, and it’s powerful enough for typical indoor pictures and outdoor portraits and group shots; up to about 14 feet at ISO 100 with an fl2.8or faster AF Nikkor lens. Flash sync speed and aperture are automatically set in the program exposure mode. Auto TIL (through-the-Iens) flash control assures accurate flash exposures. 4. Balanced fill-flash capability The N4004 makes this complicated and time-consuming professional technique automatically available to beginners, thanks to its triple sensor and built-in auto TIL flash. Decision Master System sets the correct lens aperture and shutter speed and controls the flash output to ensure optimum exposure for both the background and subject. This works very well in high-contrast scenes. 5. Dual Program auto exposure In this auto exposure setting, the N4004 automatically adjusts the shutter speed and lens aperture for optimum exposure. It also automatically selects High-Speed Program for lenses 135mm in focal length or longer – effectively preventing blur due to camera shake – or Normal Program for shorter lenses. 6. Automatic film operation From loading to advance to rewind, film operation is all automatic. Film speed is automatically set with all OX-coded films (ISO 25- 5000). An LEB lights up at the end of a roll; then after a simple manual operation, power rewind starts and stops automatically. 7. Creative exposure options (A, S, M, AEL) In addition to fully automatic dual program, the photographer can choose aperturepriority auto exposure, shutter-priority auto exposure or manual exposure modes. AE-Iock (automatic exposure lock) is also available. jnthe manual exposure and AE lock modes, centerweighted metering is employed. 8. Shutter speeds (1 -1/2000 sec.) With shutter speeds ranging from 112000 sec. down to 1sec., and with 8 (bulb), the N4004 is capable of handling exposure control for virtually any situation. 9. New BriteView screen The new 8riteView focusing screen for the N4004 viewfinder permits more light to be deflected to the autofocus sensor for superior autofocus, without compromising finder image quality or manual focusing characteristics. 10. Easy-to-see viewfinder All necessary LED information alerts for autofocus, exposure and flash appear in the viewfinder in simple, easy-to-understand graphic symbols. 11. Shutter lock for mistake- proof photography The N4004 prevents bad pictures by locking the shutter automatically, not only until the focus is correct, but also in avariety of situations, for example, when the lens is set incorrectly. 12. Manual focus capability Manual control of the lens focus ring is possible. In-focus status is electronically confirmed by aviewfinder LED. 13. Autofocus lens interchangeability More than adozen interchangeable AF Nikkor autofocus lenses, with more to come, provide complete automation.
(Current Nikon F-mount lenses other than AF Nikkors use the same bayonet mount and may be used on the N4004 without TTL exposure metering.) 14. Accessory flash attachable Fully dedicated Nikon S8-22 and S8-20 speedlights can be used for automatic photography and provide the added benefits of autofocus illuminator, bounce flash, wider angle coverage and multiple flash capability. Their additional power also gives greater flash range. 15. Four AA-Size batteries The most universally available batteries.

ASUUPTOERFOIOCRUS
The user can count on Nikon ‘s many years of experience in the development and advance of SLR autofocus technology. The Nikon F3AF, the first Nikon autofocus SLR, has been highly appreciated by professional photographers because it ushered in the age of state-ofthe-art autofocus technology. The F3AF was followed by the Nikon N2020 featuring dual autofocus – Single-Servo and Continuous.
Now there ‘s the Nikon N4004 with Decision Master System which features the AM200, Nikon ‘s innovative autofocus sensor that takes SLR autofocus photography to new heights in sensitivity and accuracy. Nikon’s unique AM200 system: One-piece autofocus sensor module design assures improved stability and accuracy. Superb autofocus detection accuracy in dim light: Depending on subject’s contrast, autofocus detection works even around EV 1. AM200 with 200 CCDs – the world’s largest number (in AF SLR): The N4004 has more CCDs than any other AF SLR. This assures that focusing is more accurate and even minute patterns are detected. Slanted configuration of CCDs: Assures fast intersection of curves, horizontals and verticals, resulting in increased ability to focus even minute patterns.
“PO’l .,Ii,,’AM200 autofocul

N40’ Fewer difficult-to-focus scenes: The

autofocus works in virtually any situation, with

few exceptions (scenes with no contrast,

etc .)

Improved focusing stability: The N4004 au-

tofocus motor surely and precisely stops at

the exact pOint of focus, with no extra inertia-

caused movement.

Improved focusing speed: As soon as the

photographer picks the subject, the N4004

zeroes in on it in an instant.

Specially developed software: Nikon

succeeded in developing new autofocus

software which enables the N4004

computer to efficiently process

the great amount of infor-

mation generated

by the 200 CCDs.

Total autofocus

1 Computer CPU
(Central processing

unit)

I

/’…….. //” ”
././ ./
-“‘AM200 CCO sensor module

I I
‘,I ‘-.J
,

design: The total

balance of Nikon’s auto-

I focus technology, including

I the design of the optical

I path, AM200, software, the

I I
I I

gear train, etc., contributes to the N4004’s outstanding autofocus performance.

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Cover glass
CCO line sensors (100 CCO elements X2j

Ceramic package

DECISION MASTER SYSTEM

tical path The light rays of an image come through the camera’staking lens, and part of the light passes through the main mirror’s semi-transparent area. The sub-mirror behind the main mirror deflects the optical path downward, so the light reaches the N4004’s autofocus sensor module AM200.
The AM200 autofocus system consists of two parts: the optical block and the CCO package. AM200 autofocus sensor module The light rays coming through the camera’s taking lens enter the AM200 through a filter which stops infrared rays from entry.
They converge toward the focal point around the filter, which is the geometric equivalent of the film plane. From this focal point the light rays diverge, coming into contact with the single-component optical block. The block’stop spherical surface serves as the field condenser lens. (The one-block transparent plastic design enhances imaging stability.)
The divergent light rays are then reflected at the slanted surface; they then go horizontally toward
AF Nikkor lens N4004 camera body
Electronic co ntact s

the two spherical surfaces Aand Bat the end of the optical block.
These spherical surfaces serve as the separator lens, from which the light rays converge toward the line sensor package. There, they reach the CCO line sensors.
Surface A makes the light converge at the upper CCO line sensor and surface Bmakes the light converge at the lower CCO line sensor.
Through this process, the image as seen in the focusing frame marks of the viewfinder is duplical: ed and each of the two images is projected onto each line CCO sensor. AF line sensor package This package consists of autofocus sensors incorporating a pair of CCO line sensors with 100 elements each. All in all, 200 CCO elements are used, the largest number among SLR cameras. The more CCO elements there are, the more information can be collated; focus detection becomes more precise because judgment is based on the amount of information.
Seq uence motor

Phase detection autofocus system The CCO sensors generate an electric output in accordance with the brightness of the image. The computer analyzes the output from the CCOs and determines the amount of defocus to control lens movement through the AF mechanism. Electronically controlled AF motor The computer monitors the AF motor electronically. The digital encoder outputs 14.5 pulse signals per
revolution of the motor. The calculated defocus amount is then compared to this signal by the computer. Motor movement is controlled with a 5-step driving force that accurately moves the lens towards and stops it at the exact in-focus pOint. Improved total optical performance The autofocus sensor of an autofocus SLR camera requires as much light as possible. The more light there is that comes through the camera taking lens,
the easier it is to increase autofocus detection capability. But there are other factors such as the light that reaches the exposure metering sensor and the light that reaches the viewfinder eyepiece.
To meet the need for maximum available light for the autofocus system, Nikon developed anew BriteView focusing screen for the N4004 view-
finder. It permits more light to be deflected to the autofocus sensor for superior autofocus, without compromising finder image Quality or manual focusing characteristics.

Len s

TRIPLE-SENSOR
LIGHT METER
Nikon pioneered mUlti-pattern evaluative exposure metering technology with the world’s first such system in the Nikon FA. The new N4004 with Decision Master System advances multi-pattern evaluative metering to new applications, now including both available light and flash photography.
Other systems tend to require a high level of photographic skill. The N4004’s Decision Master System is designed for ultimate simplicity and automation.
Image Master Control’s triple-sensor meter is designed for easy use while maintaining advanced capability for even the most enthusiastic photographer.

The advantages of the N4004 triple are summarized as follows: · Optimum exposure in most lighting situations:
hundreds of thousands of photos were taken and analyzed in perfecting the N4004’s computer program software for Decision Master System. · No need for manual exposure compensation even in difficult lighting conditions. · Subject position in the composition is not restricted for optimum exposure to be achieved automatically. · Harmful brightness information (too bright or too dark) is controlled automatically for better exposure results. Triple sensor The triple sensor is positioned just above the eyepiece lens. It consists of one sensor device with three segments and alens.
Triple sensor sensitivity
Left sensor sensitivity

Right sensor sensitivity
Sensitivity distribution The N4004 with Decision Master System divides the scene into three areas for measurement: left, center and right.
Each segment measures the given area as the elevations in the illustration indicate. Triple-sensor metering process The three outputs from the segments of the triple sensor, representing the brightness levels of the left, center and right areas, respectively, are relayed to Decision Master System’s microcomputer.
First, the data is screened; extremely bright or extremely dark readings are disregarded because in actual photography, these extreme lighting conditions are rendered meaningless by the limitatiolof film latitude.
Based on the contrast and brightness data r ~ by each sensor, the microcomputer classifies the lighting condition into several groups. An exposure value for an optimum photograph is then computed according to a formula aSSigned to each lighting classification.

Scene classification pattern According to the brightness and contrast of the scene as measured by the triple sensor, Decision Master System determines which of the three different ways of computation should be applied: centerweighted average, dim-light weighted,or averaged.
The decision is based on Nikon’s analysis of a great number of sample photographs; this assures that the expert know-how built in enables the N4004 to offer the best exposures to everybody automatically. Triple-sensor auto exposure VS. conventional centerweighted metering CDThe sun inthe picture may mislead other
cameras, but the N4004 with triple-sensor metering disregards harmful brightness information for abalanced picture. ®This night scene in available light comes out artistically thanks to triple-sensor metering. ®This high- contrast scene is automatically adjusted for better exposure by the triple sensor.
Triple-sensor metering/computation
cPU
Computation
Formula selection

DECISION MASTER SYSTEM

Exposure value

Automatic exposure control

Right sensor output

Scene classification pattern

.

Dark

~

-~

lens

information

_* Bscreignhet

·

~

–

-~

‘I ….

low contrast
Normal contrast
High contrast
D lOW brightnessweighted metering
D Centreweighted metering
Average metering

IS film speed information

BALANCED FILL-FLASH

The N4004 has a built-in auto TIL flash, assuring great flash photography anytime.
The flash can be used for regular as well as fill-flash photography, a normally difficult technique. In this important area too, Nikon engineers have given the N4004 a unique advantage by way of Decision Master System’s triple- sensor light meter (see previous
section). This Nikon-pioneered exposure measurement system assures perfect exposures everytime with both background and subject coming out balanced – no wash-outs
or too-dark areas to worry about. And because fill-flash control is automatic and throughthe-lens, even beginners can use this professional-type technique right away. Summary of N4004 flash features
· The built-in flash is always there when the photographer needs it – just right for most flash picture occasions.
· Through-the-Iens automatic flash output control. · Decision Master System automatically recom-
mends use of flash when the subject is backlit. · Balanced fill-flash (both main subject and back-
ground are accurately exposed). The N4004 built-in flash The guide number is 12 (at ISO 100 and in meters) and flash sync speed is 1/100 sec. Flash coverage 35mm. Recycling time approx. 4.5 seconds.

Why N4004 balanced fill-flash is better Consider a typical backlit subject.
Centerweighted metering without flash In aphoto taken with centerweighted metering, the main subject tends to turn out underexposed because the exposure is poorly influenced by the bright background, while the background is correctIyexposed.
Manual exposure compensation If exposure compensation is done manually to match the exposure to the main subject, the main subject may come out better exposed, but the background becomes overexposed. In a photo with exposure compensation such as this, the background details are lost and the main subject tends to be flat and unexciting.
Total light control

Judged automatically by Decision Master System

D L____~= Photographer,s

D ·

Choice

Activate Built-in Flash (or optional flash SB-22 . SB-20 etc.)
Triple-
~ lsenor Auto Exposure
Metering

Total light control The N4004 controls all lighting conditions auto-
matically thanks to fill-flash, auto TTL flash, and triple-sensor metering.
If the scene is dark, or lower than EV10, Image Master Control’s triple-sensor light meter recommends the use of flash; if the photographer then
activates the flash, an auto TTL flash photograph is taken. If the scene is not dark but the subject is backlit, or the central sensor output is EV110wer than another sensor output, the use of flash is recommended. If the photographer then activates the
flash, abalanced fill-flash picture is taken. If the flash is activated without Decision Master System recommendation, the flash picture is taken and
either fill-flash or normal TTL is determined by the brightness of the scene. In all lighting conditions, unless the flash is activated, the triple sensor assures correct exposure with available light.

Balanced fill-flash control The Nikon N4004 controls both background and flash output accurately. In designing the software required to achieve’this, Nikon analyzed atremendous amount of sample photos assuring that optimum results are obtained all the time.

DECISION MASTER SYSTEM

Conventional fill-flash In lighting conditions such as shown here, fill-flash becomes a powerful technique to solve the problem. But to give acorrect exposure for both subject and background, using flash in addition to daylight involves extremely complicated calculations.
N4004 balanced fill-flash Thanks to Decision Master System, the N4004 has made this procedure totally automatic. Both background and the main subject are correctly exposed, due to the use of balanced fill-flash. And it’s all automatic!

Balanced fill-flash control

Darker

Brighter

em’ – ~rf: -Low

contrast
—NormaT– –

~-

-+

Low contrast

;==:;;::::::::;;:::::::=;;==r==:;;:::::::

——– – —

I

· Normal

contrast
————

High

Contrast

D Exposure metering

HiQh-brightness ·

pattern s

weighted metering

Average metering

cFolansthroalmpaotutentrns ·

D D lowest flash amount

l ower flash amount

low fla sh amount

Controlling the flash output
Using the average brightness and contrast obtained from the triple sensor, the scene is classified into two groups: bright-light weighted and averaged. Then proper exposure value is calculated using the three exposure values measured by the triple sen-
sor. This adjusts the exposure, taking background brightness information into consideration as much as possible.

Controlling the background exposure Fill-flash exposure is the sum ~ total of available light and the light from the flash, unlike flash · pictures in the dark where existing light is negligible. Thus good fill-flash pictures depend on accurately determining how much flash is required. The N4004 does this automatically.
Using contrast and average brightness as detected by Decision Master System’s triple sensor, the amount of flash is determined as one of three different levels -low, lower, and lowest.
The TTL sensor monitors the amount of light as it is exposed on the film surface, by monitoring the reflected light from the film; flash output is then automatically cut the moment the predetermined level is achieved.

Aperture 32 22 16 11 8
5.6 4
2.8

Shutter speed 1/100 17
V

21 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

Programmed auto TIL flash

~

,

Balanced fill -flash

(With 50mm f/1.8 AF, ISO 100, built-in flash)

Program line for exposure setting in flash pictures The chart shows the program lines for exposure setting in N4004 flash photography in the program auto exposure mode. Note that the shutter speed is fixed at 11100. From EVlO (with ISO 100) to the right or brighter, the balanced fill-flash program line is selected. This means that the best aperture is automatically chosen to provide optimum exposure for the background.
When the scene is darker than EV10, normal programmed TTL auto flash control is chosen. That is, the aperture is automatically set to match the ISO film speed. In this example with a50mm f/1.8 lens and using ISO 100 film and built- in flash, the aperture is fixed at f/2.8.
· An average of the three outputs from the triple sensor.
Compatible AF Nikkors with built-in flash While all AF Nikkor lenses are compatible with the N4004 for great flasli pictures, with either the builtin flash or an optional flash, the built-in flash is not recommended for some AF Nikkor lenses whose size or coverage angle may cast shadows on the scene. AF Nikkor lenses recommended for use with the built-in flash are as follows: AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.4; 50mm f/1.8; 180mm f/2.8 ED-IF; 300mm f/4 ED-IF; 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5; (focal length 35mm or longer) 35-70mm f/3.3-4.5; 35-105mm f/3.5-4.5; 35-135mm f/3.5-4.5; 70-210mm f/4 Micro 55mm f/2.8
· Do not use a lens hood; it could cause slight vignetting.
· AF 35-105mm f/3.5-4.5 and AF 35-135mm f/3.5-4.5 lenses cannot be used for macro focusing. Other lenses cannot be used if the focusing distance is shorter than the flash shooting range.
.Vignetting may occur when shooting a subject located near the minimum focusing distance (1.5m) with an AF 35-135mm f/3.5-4.5lens at 35mm focal length.

EXPOSURE CONTROL

Simple dial operations
The N4004 has two dials which are located ergonomically at the top of the body so that the user can easily confirm the exposure setting.
These two dials control four exposure modes. With Sset on the aperture dial, Decision Master System automatically sets the aperture that matches the shutter speed the user picks. With A set on the shutter speed dial, Decision Master System automatically sets the shutter speed that matches the aperture picked by the user. When the dials are set to Aand S, the program auto exposure mode is activated. In the manual exposure mode, the user selects any combination of aperture and shutter speed and follows or ignores the viewfinder LED exposure indications.
Dual program auto exposure In the program auto exposure mode, the N4004’s Decision
Master System determines the appropriate combination of shutter speed and aperture for acorrect exposure. There are two program lines to accommodate the varied exposure requirements of lenses of different focal length. Decision Master System automatically selects the normal program for lenses with focal lengths shorter than 135mm. The high-speed program is selected for lenses with a focal length of 135mm or longer, favoring higher shutter speeds to reduce

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picture blur due to camera shake, a critical factor with telephoto lenses.
This is true with zoom lenses, too. For example, with a 70-210mm zoom lens, the program line automatically shifts at the 135mm focal length setting.
Note that both the high-speed program and normal program stop at EV15-2/3. Decision Master System’s triple sensor measures EV values brighter than 15-213. But the exposure is controlled at EV15-2/3, even for those scenes exceeding it. Because virtually all subjects have exposure values lower than 15-2/3, photographing them at higher than EV15-2/3 results in under-exposed subjects.
This value changes according to ISO film speed. EV15-2/3 is for ISO 100.
Aperture-priority auto exposure In the aperture priority auto exposure mode, the photographer sets lens aperture on the aperture dial with the shutter speed dial at A. Decision Master System then sets the shutter speed for a correct exposure as read by the triple-sensor light meter. The merit of this method is that one can set depth of field for any calculated effect. In this auto exposure mode, shutter speed selection is stepless, which means that the shutter speed actually picked by Decision Master System could be any value between the settings indicated on the dial, thus enabling finer exposure adjustment.

Shutter-priority auto
exposure In the shutter-priority exposure mode, the photographer sets the shutter speed on the shutter speed dial with the aperture dial at S. Decision Master System then sets the aperture for a correct exposure as read by the triple-sensor meter. The merit of this method is that one can utilize the motion of the subject for calculated effects. In this auto exposure mode, the aperture is stepless, . which means that the actual aperture picked by Decision Master System could be anything
between the settings indicated on the dial, thus enabling finer exposure adjustment.
AElock In any of the three auto exposure modes, by depressing the AEL (auto exposure lock) button, the photographer can override triple-senSOr metering and activate centerweighted metering. With Decision Master System eliminating the need for manual exposure compen-
sation, this feature is used solely for creative control. The photographer may want to give emphasis to a part of a picture in a hi”-‘ITf~ scene for artistic reasons. The AE I button ‘ depressed with the camera framing that part at its center for centerweighted metering, with speCial emphasis on its brightness value.

32

‘l-‘

I 2 4 8 15 30 60 125 250 500 10002000

– Normal program (50mm 1/1.4, ISO 100)

– High-speed program (180mm 1/2.8, ISO 100)

10

IDEe/SION MASTER SYSTEM

Manual exposure control Manual exposure control is easier than ever with the N4004 because both aperture and shutter speed setting controls are on the body. The viewfinder LED gives information on correct exposure in easy-to- understand graphic symbols. The metering activated in this case is centerweighted.
o
Centerweighted metering The N4004 activates centerweighted metering in AE lock and meter-assisted manual exposure only. In this mode,·only the reading from the central segment of the triple sensor is measured. For the reading to be meaningful as an override of auto exposure for advanced photographers, the meter reading is not adjusted by Decision Master System’s computer.

N4004 TTL auto flash control
With the built-in flash or an optional Nikon TTL speedlight activated, the N4004 employs its TTL
auto flash exposure modes. If the available light is EV10 or brighter, the N4004 selects balanced fill-
flash, and in brightness lower than EV10 it operates with the normal TTL auto flash. The optional Nikon speedlights for TTL auto operation include the SB-20, SB-22, SB-15, or SB-16B.
As the flash is fired, the TTL sensor monitors the reflection of light from the film surface as it is ex-
posed and signals to the flash when to stop as the exposure of the film reaches a predetermined level.
The settings of aperture and shutter speed in N4004 flash shootings depend on the exposure modes. Programmed TTL auto flash: in program auto exposure mode
The N4004 flash operates in the programmed TTL auto flash mode when the camera is set at the Program auto exposure mode. The shutter speed is automatically set at 11100 by the N4004. The aper-
ture is set based on the ISO number of the film in use. When the maximum aperture of the lens is smaller than the normally selected aperture for the film, the full aperture is set. For instance, an f/3.5 lens is set at f/3 .5 with an ISO 100 film which normally is matched by fI2.B.

Programmed TTL auto flash: in shutter priority auto exposure mode
The N4004 flash also operates in the programmed TTL auto flash mode when the camera is set at shutter-priority auto exposure mode. The shutter speed is automatically set at 1/100 sec. if the dial
is set at 1/125 to 1/2000. However, any slower shutter speed setting is unchanged by the N4004. The aperture is controlled as explained above. TTL auto flash: in manual exposure mode
The N4004 flash operates in the TTL auto flash mode when the camera is set at the manual exposure mode. The N4004 selects 1/100 sec. shutter
speed automatically if the dial is set at 1/125 to 1/2000. Any slower shutter speed setting is unchanged by the N4004. It is then up to the photographer to select the aperture, taking depth of field and flash reach into consideration. TTL auto flash: in aperture-priority auto exposure mode
The N4004 flash also operates in the TTL auto flash mode when the camera is set at the aperturepriority auto exposure mode. The N4004 automatically sets the shutter speed at 1/100 sec. The viewfinder exposure indications give useful information for aperture setting decisions.

11

BUILT-IN MOTOR DRIVE Decision Master System makes
film handling easy and automatic.

LOADING
User just inserts film with film leader on orange mark, closes the camera back and presses the shutter release button to advance film automatically to the first frame; shutter remains closed until the first shot.

OX INDEXING
On loading, the film speed of OX-coded film in the ISO 25-5000 range is automatically read and set accordingly; non-OX coded film is automatically set to ISO 100.

FILM ADVANCE
Built-in motor automatically advances film to the next frame after each shot.

Battery life
Number of 36-exposure film rolls per set of fresh batteries (approx.) : For Autofocus operation with AF Nikkor lens covering the full range from infinity (00) to the closest distance and back to infinity (00) before each shot.

Batteries

With AF Nikkor 35~70m

Without flash

at 20°C at -10°C

AA-type alkaline·manganese (LR06) 50

B

NiCd (KR-AA)

16

15

Zinc·carbon (SUM-3)

20

1

fl3.~45

or 50mm fl1.8

With 50% flash

at 20°C at -10°C

20

5

7

4

B

..”. I l .·-..·
“,Ilfll ”

..·… ,

) ,)

~

(~*

ilil lill IJI i

– -~

12

DECISION MASTER SYSTEM

FILM END The end of the roll is automatically detected, and the self-timer indicator lights up to alert user.

FILM REWIND After a simple lever-and-button operation, film is automatically rewound.

REWIND STOP Film rewind automatically stops when finished.

.. . .., ‘Ii’ll ”

, ~

”

.

·J .

_

~!)O

: “‘ J

f) –

II I
C
L
13

VIEWFINDER INFORMATION

Autofocus

CD In-focus @ Front/rear focus
@ Autofocus impossible
CD Auto exposure possible: (High-speed shutter)

– ON
– OFF – Blink

@ Auto exposure possible : (Slow-shutter warning)

Speedlight indication (red)
Exposure indication (red)
Focu s indication (green)
The N4004 viewfinder With its newly improved, brighter BriteView screen, the N4004 with Decision Master System makes it easier for the user to see what is being shot great for manual focusing. Also, the 12mm eyepoint makes viewing more comfortable for eyeglass wearers. Decision Master System gives the user the necessary shooting information in uncluttered, easyto-understand graphic symbols in the viewfinder. Shutter locks Whenever Decision Master System determines that the picture will not come out correctly focused and exposed – i.e., until correct autofocus and automatic exposure are secured – it locks the shutter release button. It also prevents mistakes due to improper lens aperture setting (i.e., it is not set to the minimum aperture in the program mode) or insufficient flash recharge.

Auto Exposure

@ Too bright for auto exposure
® Too dark for auto exposure
® Manual: correct exposure
(+1/3EV)
® Manual: +lEV to +1/3EV
rJ) Manual: -1/3EV to -lEV
® Manual: too bright to meas-
ure; more than lEV over
® Manual: too dark to meas-
ure; more than lEV under

@> AE lock

® Shutter set at B (Bulb)

CD Speedlight prompt

@ Speedlight ready

@ FUll-power flash warning

Speedlight

®

Ext~rnal
setting

Speedlight wrong

® Recharging the built-in
speedlight

® Recharging external
speedlight

Beyond acceptable film rJ) speed range for TTL
photography (over ISO 400)

® When using both built-in
& external speedlight

Others

CD S~al-pertu

.e setting

mistake warning

@ End of film

0 : ON
0 : Blink
+ : ON – : ON 0 : ON + 0 : ON 0- : ON +: ON

Shutter locks in AF mode Shutter locks In S(Shutter-priority) mode, LED never blinks When the automatically selected shutter speed is slower than 1/32 Shutter locks Shutter locks
Shutter does not lock

– : ON

Shutter does not lock

CD- ® All OFF

Camera automatically selects centerweighted measurement

Low brightness; Fill J Blink External speedlight
but not switched on

J ON

All exposure LEOs turn off.

J Blink Immediately after shot

J Blink

Before shooting, when speedlight is turned ON

J OFF Shutter locks

J OFF

J Blink

+ – Blink alternately

Built-in speedlight is given priority.
Shutter locks
Self-timer LED turns ON; Shutter locks

14

OPTIONAL SPEEDLIGHTS

DECISION MASTER SYSTEM

optional Nikon TTL speedlights, when used with the N4004, work with the same advanced flash exposure controls as the N4004 built-in auto TTL flash, including balanced fill-flash and programmed auto TTL flash. Such Nikon speedlights as the S8-20, S8-22, S8-15, and S8-168 provide more powerful flash output and range than the N4004’s built-in flash. The S8-20 and S8-22, both equipped with built-in autofocus illuminators, also enable autofocus in total
darkness.

Nikon S8-22 Autofocus Speedlight
The new Nikon Speedlight S8-22, is a compact version of the S8-20 Autofocus Speedlight. Guide
number is 25 (at ISO 100 and in meters) or 82 (at ISO 100 and in feet). 8uilt- in diffuser is for use with 28mm wideangle lenses. Autofocus illuminator
LED enables autofocus in the dark. Flash head can be tilted for bounce flash shooting. Programmed TTL auto flash, non-TTL auto and manual modes are selectable. Nikon S8-20 Autofocus Speedlight The Nikon Speedlight S8-20 has a higher power compared with the S8-22. The guide number is 30
(at ISO 100 and meters) or 98 (at ISO 100 and in feet). The head zooms for three different flash coverage settings matching 28mm, 35mm, 85mm
and longer focal length lenses. Autofocus illuminator LED enables autofocus in the dark. Flash can be adjusted for bounce flash. Programmed TTL auto flash, non-TTL auto and manual modes are _ table.

S8-22 Specifications
Guide Number 25 (ISO 100, meters, normal setting) B2 (ISO 100, feet, normal setting) Flash coverage 2Bmm/35mm or longer No. of flashes Approx. 200′ Recycling time Approx. 4 sec.* AF assist LED Provided

Power source Four 1.5V AA-type batteries Dimensions (WX HX D)
2. 7X4.1X3.1 in. (including mounting foot) Weight B.B oz. (without batteries)

” 0 Specifications
Guide Number 30 (ISO 100, meters, normal setting) 9B (ISO 100, feel. normal setting) Flash coverage 2Bmm/35mm/B5mm or longer No. of flashes Approx. 160’ Recycling time Approx. 6 sec.* AF assist LED Provided Power source Four 1.5V AA-type batteries Dimensions (WX HX D)
2.BX4.3X2.7 in. (including mounting foot) Weight 9.1oz. (without batteries)

‘With alkaline-manganese batteries at full output in manual operation.

N4004 and speedlight operation

I With TTL speedlight
Exposure Mode Program auto Shutter-priority auto Aperture-priority auto Manual

Shutter speed 11100 11100 or slower’ 11100 11100 or slower’

Aperture

Speedlight Prompt

Shutter-priority auto Aperture-priority auto

shutter locks . 11100

as set by dial

yes

Manual

limO or slower’

as set by dial

yes

‘ Shutter speed setting of 1/125 or above is automatically disregarded and 11100 is set. Slower shutter speed setting is respected .

15

ELECTRONICS

Nikon N4004 electronics Nikon’s expert electronics technology manifests itself both in the pictures taken with the Nikon N4004 and inside the camera itself,

Memory

Block diagram of N4004 electronics

Film speed setting

Self-timer

AE lock Aperture dial

Shutter dial Battery check

High-performance 8-bit microcomputer

Lens CPU Autofocus sensor f— – – – , Autofocus interface IC
Autofocus motor f4—- — – — – — – — – —–1

‘Indication LEOs

oElectronic parts configuration Shutter dial pattern
8 Aperture dial pattern
6) Self-timer LEO
o Shutter release switch o Main condensor for flash o Winding motor o Film detect switch o Aperture magnet o Batteries o Viewfinder LEOs
CD Flash selector switch CD Triple-sensor SPD

Q) IC head amp
4D Camera/lens electronic contacts
., Flash tube
· Interface IC · Built-in flash switch 41) Self-timer switch 41) CPU ~ Resistor array
G Photo interrupter for aperture control
fl) Mirror switch fJ) AM200 CCD sensor unit

fD Minimum f switch
f}) TIL flash metering SPD ~ AM200 optical block
of1i Photo interrupter for autofocus control Autofocus motor
fJ) DC/DC converter
I> Autofocus interface IC CD PPROM G Focus mode switch
e@) OX contacts Data-back FPC

16

DECISION MASTER SYSTEM
AF Nikkor with CPU All AF Nikkor autofocus lenses have a Central Processing Unit (CPU) built-in. The computer in the camera body communicates with the lens CPU through seven electronic contacts. Information relayed between them includes data on lens such as minimum f/stop, focal length, etc. With azoom lens, the focal length setting in actual use is constantly monitored for optimum results.

Triple-sensor metering SPO

, – – — – 1 SPO for TIL flash control

; ~

__ =~

Triple-sensor metering IC

I=

__=~

,..—
I

J r-~

–

-;::::::===::::;–
Ampaegrntuerte control

4

Smhaugtnteert control

g= =~- Power drive IC

r : ====l- l Film motor drive

L – _–j Lithium Niobate oscillator (BMHz)

‘-

~=:;-

-4

Ready light LEO

Built-in speedlight

External speedlight

., AF signal contacts
oCI) Zoom encoder Aperture control ring ~ CPU Q) Zoom ring
4ID Coupling drive axis G Gear Train
Cf) Manual focusing ring

17

LENS TABLE

AF Zoom AF 28 – 85mm 1/3.5- 4.5 AF 35 – 75mm 1/3.3- 4.5 AF 35- 105mm 1/3.5- 4.5 AF 35 – 135mm 1/3.5- 4.5 AF70 – 210mm 1/4 AF Wideangle AF 24mm 1/2.8 AF 28mm 1/2.8 AF Telephoto AF 180mm 1/2.8 ED-IF AF 300mm fI2.8 ED-IF AF 300mm fl4 AF Normal AF 50mm 1/1.4 AF 50mm 1/1.8 AF Special Purpose AF Micro 55mm 1/2.8 Zoom Lenses 28- 85mm fl3.5 -4.5 35-7.0mm 1/3.3-4.5 35- 70mm 1/3.5 35- 105mm 1/3. 5- 4.5 ‘ 35- 135mm 1/3.5 – 4.5 35-200mm 1/3.5 . 50 – 135mm 1/3.5 80 -200mm 1/2. 8 ED 80 -200mm 1/4 50- 300mm fl4.5 ED 100 -300mm 1/5.6 200 -400mm fl4 ED

Autofocus

Focusing
Focus assist

Manual focus

Exposure

Auto

Manual

exposure exposure

····· ····· ····· ····· ·····

·· ·· ·· ·· ··

··· ··· ··· ··· ···

·· ·· ·· ·· ··

· · · · ·

· · · · · · · · · · · ·

· · · · · · · · · · · ·

· · · · · · · · · · · ·

The Nikon N4004 is designed to work to its full potential when an AF Nikkor lens is mounted. However, current Nikon F-mount lenses (AI-type/Series E) other than AF Nikkors use the same bayonet mount and may be used on the N4004 without TIL exposure metering.
When a non-AF Nikkor lens or an AF Nikkor for the
Nikon F3AF is mounted on the N4004, operation is as follows:

· Aperture is set by the aperture ring of the non-AF Nikkor lens; thus the aperture dial setting on the camera body is disregarded.
· Shutter speed is that set on the shutter speed dial of the N4004.

180-600mm 1/8 ED Wideangle Lenses 13mm 1/5.6 15mm 1/3.5 18mm 1/3.5 20mm fl2 .8 24mm fl2 24mm 1/2.8 28mm fI2 28mm fI2.8 28mm fl3 .5 35mm 1/1.4 35mm fI2 35mm 112.8 Normal Lenses 50mm 1/1 .2 50mm 1/1.4 50mm 1/1.8 Telephoto Lenses 85mm 1/1.4 85mm 112

– fl
Autofocus

135mm 112 135mm 112.8 180mm 112.8 ED 200mm 112 ED·IF 200mm 1/4 300mm 112 ED·IF 300mm 112.8 ED-IF ‘ 300mm 1/4.5
· None of the auto exposure modes of the N4004 is operative – only manual.
· There is no exposure information in the viewfinder. · In-focus position is confirmed electronically
by a viewfinder LED.

18

·

~g

IS

Manual

It

·focus

· · · · · · · · · · · ·

· · ·

· ·

· · · · · · · · ·

Exposure

Auto

Manual

exposure

·exposure

· · · · · · · · · · · ·

· · ·

· ·

· · · · · · · · ·

300mm fl4 .5 ED-IF 400mm fl2.B ED-IF 400mm 1/3.5 ED-IF 400mm 1/5.6 ED-IF 600mm 1/4 EO-IF 600mm 1/5.6 ED-IF BOOmm 1/5.6 ED-IF BOOmm I/B EO-IF 1200mm 1/11 ED- IF Reflex Lenses 500mm I/B 1000mm 1/11 2000mm 1/11 Fisheye Lenses 6mm II2.B Bmm II2.B 16mm II2.B Special Purpose Lenses PC 2Bmm fl3 .5 PC 35mm fl2.B Nocl 5Bmm 1/1 .2 Micro 55mm II2.B Micro 105mm II2.B Micro 200mm 1/4 IF Medical 120mm fl4 IF UV 105mm fl4.5 AF BOmm II2.B(For F3AF) AF 200mm 1/3.5 ED-IF (For F3AF) Series ELenses 2Bmm 1/2.B 135mm 1/2.B

Autofocus

· TIL automatic flash control is available with non-AF lenses. The user must use the flash sync speed on the shutter speed dial and the appropriate aperture on the lens.

· TC-16A cannot be used with the N4004.

DECISION MASTER SYSTEM

Focusing

Exposure

Focus

Manual

Auto

Manual

as·······sist

fo·········cus

exposure

exp·········osure

· · ·

· · ·

··· ···

· · ·

· · · · · · · · · ·

· · · · · · · · · ·

· · · · · · · · · ·

·· ··

· ·

19

Nikon cameras have been flying in space on NASA’s manned spacecraft programme ever since the APOLLO programme. It also includes SKYLAB
and the Joint venture APOLLO-SOYUZ.
IMAGING TECHNOLOGIES FROMNIKON

© Nikon Inc ., 1987 . 623 Stewart Avenue , Garden City, New York 11530 U.S.A . Printed in Japan (8706/8) Code No. 8CE40309

Nikoll

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