Aquatica Digital A1 Dcx User manual

OPERATING MANUAL
For Aquatica A1Dcx Housing

FOREWORD
Thank you for having selected the AQUATICA Pro Digital Camera Housing System for your underwater photography.
The AQUATICA Pro Digital Housing is the result of a long and continuing relationship with the most demanding underwater
photographers in the world. Each housings is handcrafted, quality checked and pressure tested to a 300 feet equivalent by
a small group of specially trained individuals, each of whom takes the utmost pride and satisfaction in offering the best
underwater camera housing in the world.
The Aquatica Pro Digital Housing was designed for optimum technical and optical performance and to provide easy and
efcient underwater access to essentials functions and controls of the Canon 1Dc and 1Dx cameras.
This manual assumes that the User is already familiar with the Canon 1Dc and 1Dx cameras. If not, please read the Canon
instruction manual before attempting to use the housing.
With basic care and maintenance, your AQUATICA housing will give you a lifetime of enjoyment and satisfaction in producing
underwater images.
Please read this manual carefully before using your housing for the rst time and note that: wherever cited the right hand is
your right when using the housing.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
Improper transportation handling or use of this housing might cause a ood or malfunction.
Please read and follow the following precautions:
• Store and transport the housing in a sturdy, shock proof container and avoid travelling with the camera mounted
inside the housing as impact forces especially on the external push buttons will be transferred to the camera.
• When travelling by air, either remove the port or open the housing.
• Never change a port or open the housing in a location where sand or similar foreign material might come in
contact with an O-ring.
• Use of accessories or modications and alterations unauthorized by the manufacturer may result in ooding or
poor functioning of the controls.
• Be careful when opening the housing as the pressure buildup inside the housing will exaggerate the force
of the latch spring. Keep ngers away from the path of the latches.
• Whenever changing ports or O-rings, perform a simple seal test with out the camera inside.
• Avoid scratching the acrylic or glass ports and windows.
• Make sure that all ports remain properly attached before rinsing the housing, especially when rinsing without
a strobe make sure the bulkhead connector is sealed with its plug.
• Never attempt to operate the camera in autofocus mode with the lens mounted focus gear engaged with the
housing gear.
• The main O-ring seal should be maintained and cleaned on a regular basis. Read and follow the Care and
Maintenance section on this manual.
• Ensure that the spring loaded secondary lock is properly engaged on the latches to prevent their accidental
opening.
Page 1

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Page 2
Nomenclature
1- Camera Quick Release Tray (saddle).
2- Camera Tray Release Tab.
3- Camera Mounting Screw (1/4’’-20).
4- Alignment Posts.
5- Shutter Release lever.
6- Main Dial access knob.
7- Grips (left and right hands).
8- Grip’s Accessories mounting holes (1/4”-20).
9- M-Fn & AF Area selection mode lever.
10- ISO Access lever.
11- Top LCD panel window.
12- Exposure Compensation button.
13- White Balance button.
14- LCD Panel Illumination button.
15- Accessory Bulkhead Plug (1/2” Diameter).
16- Strobe Connector Bulkhead (main).
17- Strobe Connector Bulkhead (secondary).
18- Bayonet Flange.
19- Port Release mechanism lever.
20- Top Accessory mounting hole (1/4”-20).
21- Accessory Bulkhead Plug (1/2” Diameter).
22- Focus/Zoom Control Release Disc.
23- Focus/Zoom Control knob.
24- Focus/Zoom Control pinion gear.
25- Lens Release knob.
26- Lens Release knob lever.
27- Accessory bulkhead (16mm) plug.
28- Shooting Mode Button.
29- AF- Drive Button.
30- Metering Mode & Flash Exposure compensation Button.
31- Removable Viewnder Eyepiece.

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ON
LOCK
OFF
MENU INFO
M-Fn/AF ISO
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MENU INFO
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Page 3
Nomenclature
31- Removable Viewnder Eyepiece.
32- Locking Latches (one per side)
33- Safety locking tab (one per latches)
34- Latches strikes (one per side)
35- Live View & AF-ON Selection Rotating Collar.
36- Live View & AF-ON access lever.
37- Quick Control Dial access knob.
38- AF Point Selection button.
39- Set button.
40- Quick Control Button.
41- & AE-Lock button.
42- Moisture & Vacuum sensor LED window.
43- Power & Multifunction Lock switch lever.
44- Rear LCD panel port window.
45- Protect feature button.
46- Erase button.
47- Index Magnify & Reduce button.
48- Card Image Size selection Button.
49- Rear LCD Monitor port window.
50- Info Button.
51- Menu Button.
52- Playback Lever.
53- Rubber Anti Skid Pad (6x).
54- Sacricial Anodes (x2).
55- Accessories mounting holes (x3)

CONTROLS AND COMPONENTS IN DETAILS
1. CAMERA QUICK RELEASE TRAY: This tray slide into the housing
to secures the camera into place.
2. CAMERA TRAY RELEASE TAB: Pressing on this tab will free the
quick release tray from the housing
3. CAMERA MOUNTING SCREW: Used to fasten the camera to the
Quick Release Tray
4. CAMERA ALIGNMENT POSTS: Two posts are provided to securely
keep the camera in alignment.
5. SHUTTER RELEASE LEVER: This extended lever provides
efcient access to the shutter release, always pull the shutter release
lever gently back, part way activates the camera meter and auto focus.
Pulling the lever back all the way triggers the camera. Note that
depending on the AF mode used, the camera lens may need to focus
properly before letting the camera trigger. Applying undue pressure on
the lever will not make the camera trigger faster and may only results
on damage to the camera shutter release.
6. MAIN DIALS ACCESS KNOB: Rotates clockwise and counter
clockwise. Use alone or in combination with other controls to select or
set various camera functions or modes. In “Manual” exposure mode,
this control the shutter speed settings (see camera manual).
7. HAND GRIPS (X2): Left and right grip allowing the mounting of
strobe arms and accessories.
8. GRIP’S ACCESSORIES MOUNTING HOLES: Two1/4-20 TPI
holes on each grip are ready to accept TLC Base Brackets or TLC
Base Ball for strobe arms or accessories.
9. M-Fn & AF AREA BUTTON: press to select either the focus point
or M-Fn.
10. ISO LEVER: Pull to engage the ISO value selector button rotate
either the Main Dial Knob (# 6) or the Quick Control Dial Knob (# 37).
11. TOP LCD PANEL WINDOW: Allows a clear view of the camera
top LCD panel.
12. EXPOSURE COMPENSATION BUTTON: Press to engage the
exposure compensation button, rotate the Quick Control Dial Knob
(#37) to sect the desired value.
13. WHITE BALANCE BUTTON: Press to engage the exposure
compensation button, rotate the Quick Control Dial Knob (#37) to select
the desired value.
14. LCD PANEL ILLUMINATION BUTTON: Press to illuminate the top
and rear LCD Panel
15. ACCESSORY BULKHEAD PLUG: This bulkhead connection allows
connecting various accessories to the housing; it has a ½ inch diameter
dimension.
16. RIGHT BULKHEAD CONNECTOR: Due to user preferences,
this bulkhead connector function may vary from housings to housing.
(see section on strobe connectors)
17. LEFT BULKHEAD CONNECTOR: Due to the user preferences, this
bulkhead connector function may vary from housings to housing.
(see section on strobe connectors)
18. BAYONNET MOUNTING FLANGE: allows the mounting of different
ports and extension rings on the housing.
19. PORT RELEASE LEVER: pull to release the locking mechanism
when removing a port or extension.
20. MOUNTING HOLE FOR ACCESSORY: a 1/4”-20 TPI hole is
supplied to accept a TLC accessory or TLC base ball for mounting a
strobe arm or a modeling light.
21. ACCESSORY BULKHEAD PLUG: This bulkhead connection allows
connecting various accessories to the housing; it has a ½ inch diameter
dimension.
22. FOCUS/ZOOM RELEASE DISC: A release disk is provided to
disengage the knob should you want to us a non AF-S lens in autofocus
or when you wish to remove the camera from the housing with lens
attached.
23. FOCUS/ZOOM KNOB: Turning allows manual focus of a single
focus lens or rotation of the zoom mechanism of a lens.
24. FOCUS/ZOOM PINION GEAR: Engages and operates the focus
or zoom gear attached to the lens.
25. LENS RELEASE KNOB: activates the lens release button on the
camera allowing easy removal of the lens.
26. LENS RELEASE KNOB LEVER: Applies pressure on the camera
lens lock button
27. ACCESSORY BULKHEAD PLUG: This bulkhead connection
allows connecting various accessories to the housing; it has a 16mm
diameter dimension.
28. SHOOTING MODE BUTTON: Press this button and rotate either
the Main Dial Knob (# 6) or the Quick Control Dial Knob (# 37) to
select the shooting mode.
29) AF-DRIVE BUTTON: Press this button and rotate the Main
Dial Knob (# 6) to select the AF Mode or the Quick Control Dial
Knob (# 37) to select the Drive mode.
30. METERING MODE & FLASH EXPOSURE COMPENSATION:
Press this button and rotate the Main Dial Knob (# 6) to select the
Metering Mode or the Quick Control Dial Knob (# 37) to select the
Flash Exposure Compensation
31. REMOVABLE VIEWFINDER: Afull view of the illuminated camera
viewnder displays all the necessary information. This viewnder
be can be removed and replaced with an optional enhanced Aqua
View Finder (straight or angled) for a larger displayed image.
Page 4

Page 5
CONTROLS IN DETAIL, CONTINUED
32- LOCKING LATCHES: This housing has three (3) heavy duty
latches with safety locks to protect against accidental opening.
33- SAFETY LOCKING TAB: These safety tabs are there to prevent
accidental opening of the latch, to open a latch, push the safety tab
and lift the latch.
34- LATCHES STRIKES: These hooks up to the safety latches.
35. LIVE VIEW AND AF-ON SELECTION ROTATING COLLAR: This
collar rotates for selecting either the Live View or the AF-ON button,
simply pull lever out, rotate to the desired position and press back
the lever into place.
36. LIVE VIEW & AF-ON ACCESS LEVER: This lever can be
pulled outward or inward to access either the Live View or the AF-ON
feature, theses are important controls for video shooting and care
should be taken to fully understand their working and subtleties.
37. QUICK CONTROL DIAL ACCESS KNOB: It rotates clockwise
and counters clockwise. It can be used alone or in combination with
other controls to select or set various camera functions or modes.
In “Manual” exposure mode, this control will adjust the aperture set-
tings (see camera manual for in depth use).
38. AF POINT SELECTOR BUTTON: Push to select the AF pat-
tern desired, you can rotate the Main Dial Knob (# 6) or the Quick
Control Dial Knob (# 37) to select various options
39. SET BUTTON: Press to approve selection of menu or chosen
mode features you have selected.
40. QUICK CONTROL BUTTON: Press to activate the preselected
feature on the display. Rotate the Main Dial Knob (# 6) or the Quick
Control Dial Knob (# 37) to change the value of the pre selected
feature. Also when combined with the menu, pressing this button
will allow skipping through the menu’s sections.
41. & AE LOCK BUTTON: Press to lock the Auto Exposure.
42. MOISTURE AND VACUUM SENSOR LED WINDOW: This
window allows viewing the status LED of the moisture and vacuum
sensor, (see separate instruction sheet regarding the operation of
this Moisture and Vacuum Sensor).
43. POWER & MULTIFUNCTION LOCK SWITCH LEVER: This
lever activates the power switch of the camera, the intermediate
position locks the Quick Control Dial Knob (37) access.
44. REAR WINDOW LCD: This port window allows viewing of the
recorded images and is used in the Live View as well as the Video
mode for framing. It allows the users to see the menus as well.
45. PROTECT BUTTON: Press to protect an image from accidental
deletion.
46. ERASE BUTTON: Press to delete images.
47. INDEX, MAGNIFY & REDUCE BUTTON: Press this button and
rotate the Main Dial Knob (# 6) or the Quick Control Dial Knob (# 37)
to select the various feature of this button.
48. CARD IMAGE SIZE SELECTION BUTTON: Press this button
and rotate the Main Dial Knob (# 6) or the Quick Control Dial Knob
(# 37) to select the various feature of this button.
49. REAR LCD PORT WINDOW: Allows viewing of the rear LCD
panel of the camera.
50. INFO BUTTON: This button will activate the rear LCD and display
all pertinent shooting information.
51. MENU BUTTON: Press to activate menu display, scroll by rotating
the Main Dial Knob (# 6) or the Quick Control Dial Knob (# 37). To
select the feature you want, press the SET button (# 39)
52. PLAYBACK LEVER: Pull to activate the monitor and review
images, scroll by rotating the Main Dial Knob (# 6) or the Quick
Control Dial Knob (# 37).
53. RUBBER ANTI SKID PADS: Four rubber pads are provided to
protect the housing and preventing it from sliding on wet decks.
54. SACRIFICIAL ANODES: (2X) zinc anodes are installed to protect
your housing against salt water corrosion; theses are made to
deteriorate easier than the other strategic part of your housing,
hence the name sacricial anodes. These anodes need to be
replaced by the user as needed.
55. MOUNTING HOLES: Three 1/4” X 20 holes are provided for
mounting strobes trays or accessories.

Page 6
PREPARATION OF THE HOUSING
1. Attaching the grips to the housing:
The housing is supplied with two Grips (# 7) these attaches on the
sides of the housing with the supplied cap screws and hexagonal
wrench. It is recommended to occasionally remove the grips and
lubricate the screws threads (see Care and Maintenance: of the
housing).
Two 1/4-20” threaded holes (# 8) are located on top of each grips,
on these, you can mount the necessary shoes or brackets for your
strobe system. The Technical Lighting Control system of strobe
arm, from Aquatica is highly recommended, as it was designed to
work and integrated with your housing from the onset.
On the bottom the housing are three (3) 1/4”-20 threaded holes (#
55), these can be used for mounting a tripod or accessory lighting
tray. Located on the top is another 1/4”-20 hole (# 20) for mounting
a video light, focusing light or other accessories
Mount the strobe(s) arms to the housing and connect the sync cord
to the housing’s strobe bulkhead as per your strobe(s) manufactur-
er recommendation. Please also read the section titled “Care and
Maintenance: of the O-rings” concerning your strobe lubricant. It is
strongly recommended to remove electrical sync cord frequently in
order to prevent corrosion and salt built up.
2. Opening the housing:
This Aquatica housing has three latches (# 32) equipped with a
safety mechanism, the efcient way to open the housing is to
release the top latch rst, to do so, just push the safety tab (# 33)
and lift the latch up, then proceed with the two lateral ones, it is recom-
mended to release those two lateral latches simultaneously keeping in
mind, when releasing them, that they are spring loaded.
2. Lubricate the Main O-ring Seal:
Carefully inspect the Main O-ring seal in its groove located on the
rear portion of the housing and check the sealing surface on the
front half of the housing to conrm that it is free from scratches or
foreign material. Lubricate the O-ring with a light coat of Aquatica
O-ring Lubricant (Never use Lubricant intended for silicone type O-
ring, be safe, use only original Aquatica supplied lubricant).
The Main O-ring sits in an inverted “V” groove, to release it, start
at the entry point located in the lower left side of the housing, a
dedicated O-ring pick or tool is recommended for this task, avoid
using sharp object as they may damage the sealing surface or the
O-ring material.
When replacing the main O-ring back into place, press the entire
O-ring over the O-ring groove and start by pushing the O-ring in
the corners. Slowly work your way around by pressing the O-ring in
alternate area each time, making sure the O-ring is sitting properly
in its groove in the end.
For further handling and maintenance of O-rings recommendations
be sure to read the section titled “Care and Maintenance: of the
O-rings.”
CAMERA PREPARATION AND INSTALLATION
1. Important Note: Prior to installing the
camera in the housing, remove the rubber
eyecup from the camera, the camera
strap, and any clips and/or any object
that might obstruct installation or get in
the way. In order to save valuable
underwater time, it is recommended at
this stage to prepare the camera shooting
mode, preferences and custom features
at this point
2. Remove the camera quick release tray (# 1) from the housing by
pressing down on the release tab of the tray (# 2), carefully place
the camera on the tray ensuring that the camera is properly secured
by tightening the camera mounting screw (# 3) and is resting against
the alignment post (# 4).
3. The power switch
must be in the same
position on both the
housing (# 43) and on
the camera body.
ENTRY POINT
INVERTED “V” GROOVE
8
20
32
33
1
1
2
33
4
CAMERA HOUSING

Page 7
CAMERA PREPARATION AND INSTALLATION
(continued)
4. If a lens with a gear is already mounted on the camera, Pull out
the lens release lever (# 25) and lift and rotate the Focus/Zoom
Release Disc (# 22) to rest on the dowel resting pins underneath to
allow the pinion Focus/Zoom Pinion gear (# 24) and internal Lens
Release Lever (#26) proper clearance.
5. Slide the quick release tray back into place as per drawing at
right.
6. If the housing is to be used with strobes, then slide the housing’s
hot shoe connector onto the camera, as seen in photo at right. Be
careful to tuck the wiring harness safely out of the way.
7. If using a third party monitor, conrm that it is properly connected
and operating, secure all wiring and cables that could potentially
get caught in between the rear and front of the housing, this is a
critical and essential thing to check.
Before closing the housing always veries that:
- The main O-ring on the front half of the housing is clean, lubricated
and properly seated for a positive seal.
- The sealing surface on the rear half of the housing is clean and
free from any scratches or physical damage.
- All cords or wires are tucked in so that they do not interfere with
the closing of the housing.
- The POWER ON/OFF lever and switch are in the same position
on both the camera and the housing (# 43).
Closing the housing:
- Join the front and rear halves of the housing using the two dowel
pins at the bottom of the housing as a reference.
- Hold the housing with both hands and look around the sealing
surface to ensure that the O-ring remained properly seated
and that no cords or wires are caught between the edges.
- This housing has three latches (# 32) rst lift the top latch and
let it rest in position for now, then lift the lateral latches and hook
them up on their respective strike hooks (# 34), close the two side
latches simultaneously. Then proceed to the same with the top one,
conrm that the safety tab is engaged by trying to open the latch
with pushing on the safety tabs.
CAUTION: if you feel any resistance as you attempt
to close the latches, do not force the closure. Check
for an obstruction and try again.
- Activate all controls of the camera, conrming that the camera is
aligned as it should all the controls are operating smoothly.
PREPARATION OF THE LENS
Aquatica has a wide selection of Focus and Zoom gears that
accommodate the most popular lenses used in underwater
photography. Correctly mounting and securing these gears on a
lens is mandatory for a smooth operation. Always follow the installation
directions included with each gears carefully. This housing is
designed for using EF type’s lenses exclusively.
A comprehensive lens chart listing the lenses supported and their
required gears is supplied along with this manual. For the latest
updated version of this lens chart, you can refer to the Canon Type
4 Lens Chart: http://www.aquatica.ca/en/products_zoom.html
Notes: If the camera is set in manual focus a focus gear must be
mounted on the lens. If you are using a zoom lens with a
zoom ring the camera must be on auto focus, unless you are using
one of the dedicated port or extension ring with an integrated focusing
knob, also noteworthy is the fact that some wide angle lens may
require a close up lens (Diopter) when used behind a specic dome
port, the purpose of the close up lens is to correct the minimum
focusing distance of the lens so that it will be able to focus on the
virtual image created by the dome port. Refer to the Canon Type
4 lens chart to conrm if one is needed, and what suggested close
up/diopter strength is required.
CLEANING THE PORTS:
Dirt, grease or ngerprints on the port, especially on the inside, can
adversely affect the quality of the image. Acrylic ports should be
cleaned with plastic cleaner and the glass ports should be cleaned
with lens cleaner. For more details please refer to the section titled
“Care and Maintenance: of the Ports.”
Lubricate the port and/or port extension O-ring seal:
Before installing a port or port extension on the housing, remove
the rear O-ring and lightly coat it with Aquatica O-ring Lubricant. For
more details please refer to the section titled “Care and Maintenance:
of the O-rings.”
Resting Pins
25
22
26
23
24
26
24

Page 8
GEAR INSTALLATION:
Your Focus or Zoom gear packaging contain the instruction for properly
mounting the gear onto the lens, please follow these attentively. Once
a gear is installed, always rotate it several times to make sure it
moves smoothly and the gear does not slip.
Zoom lenses: if using a zoom lens, the gear should be mounted on
the zoom lens control. The housing focus control then becomes the
zoom control. Focusing of lens is achieved by using the camera’s
autofocus system or by a dedicated knob on the port or port extension.
LENS INSTALLATION
With the camera already inside the housing:
If there is a port or extension, it will rst need to be removed from
the housing, if required, install the gear on the lens. Before mounting
the lens on the camera, make sure, by looking at the front of the
housing, that the lens release lever (# 26) is properly located and
activates the camera lens release button when the external lens
release lever (# 25) of the housing is pulled in. Lift the Focus/Zoom
release disc (# 22) up and rotate it so it rest on the up position. Find
the reference point on the camera body and lens and mount the
lens to the camera, make sure it is locked into place. Rotate the
release disc back into position and turn the Focus/Zoom control
knob (# 23) to insure that the gears are properly meshed and turning
smoothly.
With the lens already attached to the camera:
Open the rear of the housing, make sure that the lens external
lens release lever (# 25) of the housing is pulled out. Lift the
Focus/Zoom release disc (# 22) up and rotate it so it rest on the up
position. Slide the quick release tray in with the camera and lens
mounted, make sure the tray is locked in. Rotate the release disc
back into position and turn the Focus/Zoom control knob (# 23) to
insure that the gears are properly meshed and turning smoothly.
WARNING: With standard EF (non USM) type lenses, you should
always set the Focus Control of the lens to the “M” Manual position
before testing the proper meshing of a focusing gear. Never
attempt to operate it with the camera in autofocus mode and with a
mounted focus gear engaged, this might cause serious damage to
your lens focusing mechanism. This procedure is not required with
USM type lenses.
PREPARATION OF THE PORTS
Your shooting requirement (macro or wide angle photography)
will dictate whether you will be installing either a at Macro Port
(product # 18426, 18428 or 18429), or a Dome Port (Product
# 18405, 18407, 18409). Refer to the Canon Type 4 lens chart
for assistance in selecting the right port and accessories for your
needs.
The lens chart may suggest the use of an extension ring, these falls
into two categories:
- Macro Port Extension Rings: These extension rings are inserted
between the Macro Port and the housing to provide the necessary
space for longer lenses. Their uses are solely for adapting the port
physically to a lens and they do not alter the optical property of a lens
when used in this manner.
- Dome Port Extension Rings: When using a wide angle or zoom
lens, an extension ring may be necessary. These port extension
rings are inserted between the dome port and the housing and are
meant to align the optical center of the dome port with the entrance
pupil of the lens being used. This is done in order to attain the maximum
optical quality when a wide angle lens is used behind a dome port.
Some dome ports have a built in shade while other have optional
removable one so that they can accommodate full circular type
sheye lenses, if not using one of these lenses, and in order to
reduce glare, maximize contrast and offer physical protection to the
dome, the use of a dome shade is highly recommended. See the
Canon Type 4 lens chart for the suggested dome shade.
A comprehensive list of the lenses supported and their required
extensions and/or accessories are supplied along with this manual.
For the latest updated version of this lens chart, you should refer to
the Canon Type 4 Lens Chart available from our website:
http://www.aquatica.ca/en/products_zoom.html
Resting Pins
25
22
26
23
24

Page 9
MOUNTING A PORT OR EXTENSION RING ON THE HOUSING
Safely mounting a Port or extension on the housing requires that
the O-ring be clean, lubricated, be properly seated in its groove and
that the opposing sealing surface be clean and free of any physical
damage.
This AQUATICA Pro Digital Housing features a locking bayonet
mount (# 18) to mount a port or extension ring on the housing:
1. Place the housing on its back on a soft and steady surface.
2. Place the port or extension ring inside the bayonet of the housing.
Align one of the four alignment notches with the opening of the
housing.
3. Place your hands on opposite sides of the port or extension
ring.
4. Push with even force on both sides of the port or extension ring
until you feel it snap into place. Make sure the bayonet is completely
inside the housing.
5. Rotate the port clockwise until it stops. Do not force it. If there
is too much resistance take the port off, check the O-ring and see
that the port or extension are properly seated before attempting to
rotate again.
6. Try to rotate counter clockwise to conrm that the port or exten-
sion is safely locked on the housing.
7. When using large dome port such as the 6”, 8” and 9.25” with an
extension, uses of the optional extension ring to port locking collar
(# 18469) is recommended, this will add another layer of safety by
preventing the larger dome port from rotating during manipulation
or transportation to the dive site.
To remove a port or extension from the bayonet, press the port
release lever (# 19) and rotate the port or extension counter
clockwise, carefully pull the port or extension off the bayonet.
Note: It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with this pro-
cedure by trying it without the camera in or the back cover attached
to the housing; this to better visualize the internal functioning of the
bayonet and port.
CHANGING A LENS (REMOVING A LENS)
The lens mounted gears may restrict the view and ease of access
to the lens release button of camera. This AQUATICA
Pro Digital Housing features a Lens Release Lever (key # 25) that
is designed to trigger the lens release button of camera and allow
for an easy removal of the lens.
To remove a lens from the front, simply remove the port and/or
extension ring, rotate Lens Release Lever (key # 25) to press the
camera lens release, hold and turn the lens clockwise.
Alternatively, a lens can be changed simply by pulling the whole
camera and lens assembly from the housing. Start by pulling on
the Focus/Zoom release disc (# 22) underneath the Focus/Zoom
knob (# 23), and turning it so that it stay in the up position, this will
disengage the pinion gear (# 24) from the focus or zoom gear at-
tached to the lens, pull out the housing external release lever (# 25)
remove the hot shoe and any other cables or wire from the camera
and you can then pull the camera right out of the housing with the
lens and gear attached.
& AE-LOCK LEVER
The lever in the rear right portion
of the housing (#36) can be
used to access the AE-LOCK
or the button, just pull
outward or inward to access
the desired function, then
rotate the collar (#35), theses
two buttons can be assigned
a variety of custom function
to conform to your personal
style of shooting, we suggest
that you refer to the Canon
instruction manual to pull the
maximum out of these highly
creative features.
18
19
UNLOCK
LOCK
PULL
Resting Pins
25
22
26
23
24

Strobe setup:
Your Aquatica 1Dcx Pro Digital housing (# 20075-NK) is supplied
with two Nikonos type connectors which are in turn connected to a
switch board circuit. The A1Dcx housing can also be supplied with
a single Ikelite bulkhead connection, only manual strobe exposure
is available with this connection (# 20075-KM).
The strobes sync cords O-ring should be lubricated with the
recommended O-Ring lubricant from your strobe manufacturer,
Also advisable is to put a light coat of the lubricant on the threads
of this connector, doing so reduces the risk of corrosion.
NOTE: Your Canon Digital camera design does not allow underwater
strobes or ashes to be connected directly to the camera and be
used in eTTL unless they are original Canon ashes in third party
housing with the required connector and cords.
On the standard version (# 20075-NK) located on the top of your
housing, you will nd two Nikonos type bulkhead connectors
(#16 & # 17), the main has 6 active contact pins and the secondary
has two active pins, both connectors are wired through a switch
board that gives the user the option of alternating between TTL and
Manual ash exposure. (By default you housing is delivered with
the switch board set to full manual), if eTTL exposure is desired
then it can be made in either of the two following methods:
1) By using a single ash from Canon (or other brand eTTL compatible
brand) in a designated underwater housing connected with a 6 pins
TTL Nikonos Type sync cord on the right hand main connector
(# 16) on your Aquatica housing.
2) By using an external eTTL converter connected to the main
Nikonos type 6 pins connector on the right hand side (# 16) on
your Aquatica housing. On this converter, one or two underwater
strobes with compatible TTL cords can then connected, (conrm
compatibility of the strobes and converter with their respective
manufacturers).
Set up instruction for eTTL operation
Using the tip of a pen push the switches 1, 2, 3 & 4 to the ON (up)
position, this will activate the connections on your main 6 pins bulk-
head connector allowing eTTL communication between the camera
and the housed ash or eTTL converter.
Set up instruction for manual operation
All switches must be in the OFF (lower) position, in this case all
eTTL connections are disabled and only the ground and sync are
left active, this will allow two underwater strobes or housed ashes
to be connected directly via the main and secondary bulkhead.
Page 10
MOUNTING AND ATTACHING FLASHES
You can mount the necessary shoes, brackets or Base Ball for your
lighting on the threaded holes located on the top of the hand grips
((# 8). The use of Aquatica Technical Lighting Control Strobe Arm
System is highly recommended, this lighting arm system having
been developed to integrate with your Aquatica housing from the
onset.
There are three threaded holes (# 55) on the bottom of the housing
that can be used for mounting additional lighting bracket or tray.
Located on top of the housing is one threaded hole (# 20) ready to
accept an additional accessory, focusing light or extra strobe arm.
1 2 3 4
ON GTS
ON
OFF
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR STROBE SYNC CORD O-RINGS: You should only use to the recommended O-ring
lubricant from your strobes manufacturer on your sync cords O-ring and never on your Aquatica housing
O-rings. Some lubricant may not be compatible with the material used in our or other manufacturer O-ring
materials, swelling and damage to the O-ring could results from doing so.
Some sync cord on the market have been known to contain poor quality and highly conductive material in the
construction of the bulkhead plug, removing the sync cord frequently, cleaning the threads and lubricating
them is the rst step in preventing the sync cord from locking up in the thread due to the sync cord corrosion
built up.
20
8

Page11
FIELD MAINTENANCE
Whenever changing ports or O-rings, it is highly advisable to perform a simple seal test without the camera inside. Strapping a weight to
the housing and lowering the unit to a depth of 30 to 50 feet of water for at least 10 minutes will assure you that the seating of the new
port or o-ring is proper. This test, though time consuming and often considered unnecessary, may save your camera equipment from ir-
reparable water damage. The housing is now ready for the dive.
CAUTION: Never jump into the water with the housing. It is best to have the system handed to you after you have made your entry, or
have it lowered to you on a rope. Make certain that ropes of other equipment stay clear of the system.
When photographing, be sure to respect the environment. Avoid damaging marine life or manipulating sea creatures to obtain a pleasing
photo . The housing is slightly negatively buoyant so that you can lay it down on the bottom, but avoid laying it on living coral or other
delicate marine life.
Changing the memory cards
Before opening the housing to change memory card, you should always thoroughly dry the housing
wiping it with a dry towel. If possible it is suggested that the housing be blown dried by directing a
low pressure air nozzle around the main o-ring before opening.
Rest the housing on its front with the lens facing down, be careful to protect the port surface, release
the two side latches simultaneously. Lift the rear part of the housing and place it in a secure location.
This minimizes the possibility of any residual water falling into the housing and on to the camera when
the housing is opened or damage to the sealing surface .
Pull the lens release lever (# 11) so the actuator (#12) clears the lens gear. Pull and rotate the
retracting disc (#8) and Focus/Zoom knob (# 9) and rest it in the upper position, this will disengage
the pinion gear (# 10)of the housing from the lens gear, you are now free to pull the camera tray out
without requiring the removal of the port or lens.
TRANSPORTING THE AQUATICA Pro Digital housing
Store the AQUATICA Pro Digital housing in a sturdy, shock proof container. When travelling by air, remove or loosen the port. This al-
lows for equalization of the air pressure inside the housing to the external air pressure. Failure to do so may cause serious damage to
the acrylic ports. Avoid travelling with the camera mounted in the housing. If you must do so, remove the lens as external pressure can
damage the camera.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Of the housing:
After each and every salt water dive, your housing system should be soaked or rinsed in fresh water. The housing system should soak in
fresh water for at least 30 minutes. During this soaking period operate all the controls several times to ush out any residual salt water.
Be sure to inspect the housing’s main o-ring and clean it after every use. Refer to Maintenance: Of the O-rings. To ensure that the hand
grips won’t fuse on to the housing due to the exposure to salt water, it is also a good practice to occasionally remove the hand grips. Clean
and lubricate the bolts with a small amount of WD-40.
WARNING: Use WD-40 carefully, sparingly and only on metal to metal surfaces. WD-40 can damage the acrylic on the ports, the
optical surfaces on lens as well as the O-rings.
Of the Ports:
Care should be taken with the Dome Port and Macro Port to avoid scratches on the lens surface. The acrylic port is softer than glass
so minor exterior scratches are often unavoidable. However, since the indices of refraction for acrylic and water are almost equal the
scratches will not seriously impair image quality. Internal scratches(air side) must be avoided as they do not ll in with water and will affect
the quality of the image.
Clean the dome using only products recommended for cleaning acrylic and a soft lint free cloth. Dust on the interior surfaces of the port
can be removed with a soft camel hair brush or a blower brush. Caution must be taken when using aerosol devices as not to spray the lens
material with the liquid propellant as this may seriously affect the optical properties of the port. Use of pressurize air from a dive tank is
not recommended, the force of the air stream may easily dislodge a port or O-ring, It is advisable that ports and extension O-rings should
be removed and serviced after every dive.
11
12

Of the Latches:
The two latches of the AQUATICA Digital are equipped with safety locking tabs, their locking action prevent
accidental opening of the latches. To open push the safety locking tab (A) and then lift the two latches (B) si-
multaneously as per illustration. When closing and prior to the immersing the housing always ensure that the
locking tab mechanism is engaged. Watch for the build-up of corrosion or salt residue around the latches. This
will appear as a white material. Lubricate the latches with a small amount of WD-40 to remove the corrosion or
salt residue build-up.
Of the O-Rings:
The O-rings that need to be maintained on a regular basis are the main housing O-ring and the O-ring on the
lens port The main O-ring should be cleaned and inspected on a daily basis and the port O-ring should be
cleaned every time a port or extension is changed or removed.
Of the sacricial anode:
Two anodes (# 50) are attached to the bottom part of the housing. These prevent corrosion caused by electrolysis, as time goes they will deteriorates and
eventually will require replacing, contact your dealer for replacement (parts # 19220).
TO SERVICE O-RINGS ON THE HOUSING MAIN O-RING, PORTS AND EXTENSION RINGS
1. Remove the O-ring. It is important never to use a sharp instrument when removing an O-ring as this
may damage the O-ring groove or the O-ring itself. A dull pointed object or the edge of a credit card
usually works well.
Note: The main O-ring is inserted in an inverted V groove to prevent it from popping out accidentally, to remove,
use a dull pointed object and insert in the side of the small opening on the lower left hand side corner of the
front of the housing. Do not use sharp objects or excessive force; this could result in damage to the sealing
surface.
2. Once the O-ring is removed, it should be examined for damage. Check to make sure that the O-ring
is free of nicks and cuts and that it retains its original round prole. O-rings that appear to be damaged
should be discarded immediately and replaced with new O-rings.
3. Rinse the O-ring with fresh water and dry it with a clean lint free cloth.
4. Clean the O-ring groove (where the O-ring sits) with a cotton swab. Be sure to remove any lint the
cotton swab may leave behind. Inspect the groove for damage.
5. Wipe the part of the housing that the O-ring seals against with a clean lint-free cloth.
6. Re-grease the O-ring with a thin layer of O-ring grease until it appears to be smooth and shiny. Do not over grease it. Use just enough grease so
the O-ring will pull smoothly through your ngers. Excessive amounts of grease will only serve to attract dirt to the o-ring.
7. Make sure that the O-ring is properly (evenly) installed in the O-ring groove.
8. To reinstall the clean and lubricated O-ring, place the entire O-ring over the groove and start by pushing the O-ring in at each corner then, push
the O-ring at each side and nally, work in the rest of the O-ring. Never start at one end and work your way around the O-ring. This places uneven
tension on the O-ring which may cause the O-ring to stretch resulting in excess O-ring, which will have no place to go.
Warning: Use only recommended Aquatica O-ring lubricant (# 19213) on the Aquatica Housing (and use the recommended O-ring lubricant of your strobe
manufacturer on their components O-rings), Petroleum based lubricant used by some manufacturers for their Silicone based O-rings can and will swell
the material of our O-rings, this will render the O-ring very difcult to install and more likely will end up being damaged or pinched resulting in dire conse-
quences
Internal O-rings on the housing controls are not user accessible, while these O-rings are not as susceptible to damage as they are not exposed, rinsing
properly with fresh water to ush out salt crystals and sand residues will be the proper way to assure trouble free operation. It is recommended by Aquatica
to have the housing serviced on a yearly basis. Aquatica has authorized service facility in both con-
tinental USA and Europe for this annual maintenance. Before sending any items, always contact us
or the service center closest to you (these are listed on our website www.aquatica.ca).
The internal moisture alarm for your AQUATICA Digital housing (Product # 20023) is powered by
an easily available CR 2032 battery. Please read the instruction sheet provided for your moisture
alarm prior for installation and operation.
When installing the moisture alarm battery, to avoid crushing the positive battery contact as shown
in image below, rst insert it as per (A) then just press it in to place (B)
To avoid unnecessary power drainage, it is recommended that the battery be removed from the
moisture alarm when storing or not using the housing for extended period of time
ENTRY POINT
INVERTED “V” GROOVE
Page 12

Page 13
System Chart
Aquatica A1Dcx
For Canon 1Dc & 1Dx cameras
* Bulkhead connections
20075-NK Double Nikonos connectors
20075-KM One Ikelite 2 pins connector
(to know more about connectors refer to
our website at www.aquatica.ca)
Canon Type 2
Lens Chart
+5
Close Up lens
19352
+10
Close Up lens
19353
19350
Close Up Kit
Includes: holder,
+5 & +10 close up lenses
TM.
19351 Close up lens holder
18508
Neoprene Cover
INCLUDED
18429
AF Macro Port
Low Profile
18508
Neoprene Cover
INCLUDED
18410
4" Mini Dome 100
Moisture/ Vacuum
Sensor Alarm
3Volts
19229
INCLUDED
Hydrophone
19221
BULKHEAD SELECTION*
20075-NK & 20075-KM
Aqua View Finder
20054
Protective Hard Case
19216
0
Aqua View 45
Finder
20059
450
Replacement
Viewfinder
19218
INCLUDED
19305
19217
Deep Rated
spring Kit
L
U
B
R
I
G
C
I
N
A
N
-
R
T
O
MONTREAL, CANADA
TEL. [phone]
WWW.AQUATICA.CA
Maintenance
O-ring Kit
18851
L
U
B
R
I
G
C
I
N
A
N
-
R
T
O
MONTREAL, CANADA
TEL. [phone]
WWW.AQUATICA.CA
Rebuilt O-Ring Kit
18852
Sacrificial Anodes
(4 x anodes and screws)
19220
Canon Type 4
Lens Chart
18464 & 18465
Focus gear
included with
these extensions
18469
Extension to Port
locking collar
www.aquatica.ca
CANADA
Made in
18409
6" Dome Port
18502
6" Neoprene Dome Cover
INCLUDED
INCLUDED
TM.
18484
6" Dome Shade
18504
6" Neoprene cover
for dome shade
18405
8" Dome Port
18500
8" Neoprene Dome Cover
INCLUDED
TM.
18480
8" Dome Shade
18503
8" Neoprene cover
for dome shade
18407
9.25" Mega Dome
18426
AF/MF Macro Port
INCLUDED
18505
Neoprene Cover
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
18428
AF Macro Port
INCLUDED
18505
Neoprene Cover
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w
w w
w
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pro Digital
19228
Vacuum Pump and Pressure valve kit
18454

Technical Lighting Control
17501
17550 1/4”x 20 threads
17552 5mm threads
17750
17657
17555
17651 1/4”x 20 threads
17659 1/4”x 20 threaded hole
17655 8mm threads
17655 8mm threads
17667 17673 17677 17681
17800
17671
17889
17506 17510
17800
17800
17667 17673 17677
17681
17688
17691
17692
Ikelite DS 125, DS 50, DS 51
17690 Nikonos SB-105
17888 Inon
No pins, no O-rings just tough, reliable performance from TLC
For Sea & Sea strobes
For Ikelite Grip
17856
For Ikelite TTL Slave sensor
Sea & Sea
Ikelite DS 200
17802
Arm clamp to 1” ball
17553
Two 1/4”-20 x 34” included
17752 17753 17754 17757 17758 17887
Ikelite Knob Ikelite DS200 Nikonos SB-105 8mm knob UK Aqua Sun Inon Strobes
www.aquatica.ca
17682
Buoancy Compensating Float # 17892 with arm clamp
Buoancy Compensating Float # 17890
17511 17512 17513
17651 1/4”x 20 threads 17651 1/4”x 20 threads 17651 1/4”x 20 threads 17651 1/4”x 20 threads 17651 1/4”x 20 threads 17651 1/4”x 20 threads 17651 1/4”x 20 threads 17651 1/4”x 20 threads 17651 1/4”x 20 threads
17651 1/4”x 20 threads
17520
Provided with 17692 Ball Head Adapter
17507
Provided with 17752 Knob head adapter
17509 17517
17854
17518
17853
17857
FOCUS / TARGET LIGHT SET UP
17508
175161751517514
Macro Master Arm
17519
17554
Four point mounting base
TLC holder for Ikelite TTL converter and Double cable
17858
Revised Nov 11, 2011
Page 14

Page 15
WARRANTY
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
One year Limited Warranty.
Thank you for purchasing an AQUATICA manufactured product! Your AQUATICA housing is handcrafted by a
small group of specially trained individuals - each of whom takes the most pride and satisfaction in offering you
the best underwater camera housings in the world. All AQUATICA products are guaranteed against defects in
material or workmanship for (1) one full year from the date of purchase for consumer use. these same products
when used commercially will carry a 90-day warranty. No statutory warranty applies. Camera housed in AQUATICA
housings are not covered under this warranty and ANY WATER DAMAGE SUSTAINED DUE TO INSTALLATION
ERROR OR ANY OTHER REASON IS NOT THE RESPONSABILLITY OF AQUATICA. Therefore the appropriate
insurance should be maintained by the user.
Warranty does not apply to replaceable seals or damages to impacts or abrasive surfaces. Warranty applies
only to products purchased from authorized AQUATICA dealers and does not extend beyond the original retail
purchaser. Unauthorized modications or repairs will automatically void this warranty. this applies to removal of
serial numbers and AQUATICA identication labels.
To obtain service during or after the warranty period you must notify AQUATICA at 514-737-9481
and ship BY REGISTERED MAIL (INSURED) ONLY, enclosing your proof of purchase to:
AQUATICA
3025 De Baene
Montreal (Quebec)
H4S 1K8
Mark clearly on your package “Canadian goods returned for repair”
Do not ship by any other means.
Unauthorized packages will be refused.
YOUR SERIAL NUMBER_______________________________

Page 16
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[email protected] www.aquatica.ca