SONY SLT-A35 wear assessment: why is it so important

SONY SLT-A35 is a camera with innovative translucent fixed mirror technology (SLT). This technology allowed the entry-level camera to achieve constant phase detection autofocus when shooting video and a very impressive burst shooting speed of up to 7 frames per second. It was this “reportage” speed in the budget segment that often led to the fact that novice photographers mercilessly shot the resource of the mechanics.

Buying an SLT camera on the secondary market requires a special approach. Due to the absence of a flapping mirror, users felt that the camera was not under heavy load. But this is an illusion: the curtain shutter itself continues to physically block the matrix 7 times per second. And it is this complex mechanical assembly that is the main weak link, the wear of which must be checked first.

Specifics of the shutter with a translucent mirror

Unlike classic DSLRs, where the mirror rises before each frame, in the SLT-A35 it is stationary. This eliminates the system from unnecessary vibrations and one wearing mechanism. However, the curtain-slot shutter itself bears the entire load. The A35 series devices have a fairly simple and lightweight bolt block, typical for the amateur class of those years.

Service statistics say that the A35 shutter confidently copes with an operating time of 70,000 - 100,000 clicks. If the camera has been used thoughtfully and without long sports sequences, it can last a very long time. But if the counter shows a figure close to 100 thousand, you should understand that you are purchasing equipment at the end of its life cycle.

Where does Sony hide information about the number of frames?

Fortunately for buyers of used vehicles, a non-resettable “odometer” is built into the SLT-A35 firmware. The BIONZ processor strictly logs each shutter operation cycle. This data is continuously integrated into the EXIF ​​metadata of every photo created.

You will not be able to find this counter in the camera settings menu. It is written to the MakerNotes block of the image file. A huge plus is that this log cannot be reset by flashing or system reset. The numbers are always objective and honest.