3
\$\begingroup\$

I have 99.5% Isopropanol that I am using for cleaning electronics and optics(I specifically ordered it from my local electronics specialist; it is no knock-off, it is genuine pure IPA for a ton of money).

I was cleaning my Pentax K5 mirror with it when I accidentally spilled some inside. Not much: not more than 50ml. Now the camera won't turn on. This is odd, since IPA should not be conductive. Is there some moisture sensor inside preventing it from turning on? I bathed my laptop in it last week (when cleaning the monitor) while it was on and nothing happened.

But the camera won't turn on!

Improve this question
\$\endgroup\$
12
  • 3
    \$\begingroup\$ IPA will adsorb moisture and become conductive, However, both the moisture and IPA will evaporate w/o residue assuming the IPA doesn't have significant contaminants. Put the camera in an dry place at 120F or 50C for 12 hours. You should be good. IPA doesn't normally attack the various plastics and other material in a camera. I use anhydrous ethyl alcohol. It's not all that expensive but still taxed heavily and has less residue. Only available in some states like AZ. You can speed things up with something that adsorbs the moisture like silica gel. Always good to have around. \$\endgroup\$
    – doug
    Commented Aug 16, 2018 at 1:07
  • 1
    \$\begingroup\$ Yes, thanks, I tried blowing hairdryer on it and now it works just fine. \$\endgroup\$
    – user74200
    Commented Aug 16, 2018 at 11:45
  • 2
    \$\begingroup\$ A hair dryer is way too hot. You can go up to about 120F or 50C w/o a problem since designs consider those temps possible. Especially when not operating, but higher temps may damage parts. \$\endgroup\$
    – doug
    Commented Aug 16, 2018 at 15:13
  • 1
    \$\begingroup\$ I gotta say this. <rant> Isopropanol used on ANY lens assembly or camera is a very good way to destroy your equipment. It DISSOLVES many of the high-tech materials used in manufacturing optical equipment. There is no fix for this DIY attempt. It is ONE WAY. </rant> \$\endgroup\$
    – Stan
    Commented Aug 17, 2018 at 16:04
  • 1
    \$\begingroup\$ I can't help but chuckle at "Not much, not more than 50ml". When it comes to spilling into a camera, 50ml is quite a lot! \$\endgroup\$
    – mattdm
    Commented Aug 20, 2018 at 15:49

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
3
\$\begingroup\$

Best practices for the future:

  • Do not serve alcohol to cameras and lenses. They don't enjoy it as much as you do. They also tend to not tip bartenders – 50mL is 25% more than a shot.

  • Let your camera sleep it off. It will be fine post hangover.

  • Avoid using alcohol yourself when operating on cameras and lenses. Using other "recreational" substances is also inadvisable.

  • Baking your camera also seems like a bad idea.

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.