RF to PL Adapter w/ Electronic ND - Cleaning and Maintenance

The RED RF to PL Adapter w/ Electronic ND includes two types of filters: a clear glass and an Electronic ND filter. This article outlines best practices for cleaning and storing both filters.

Warnings

• Please be advised that cleaning is performed at your own risk. Damage to the ND filter or Clear Glass is not covered under warranty.
• While use of optical cleaning fluids is safe with proper cleaning technique, with prolonged cleaning or aggressive pressure, it can remove glass surface coatings. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions and exercise care when cleaning.
• Do not wipe or attempt to clean filters with dry or hard materials or use solvents such as water, aromatics, acetone or other ketones, as they may cause permanent damage. 
• Do not reuse swabs or wipes
• Do not use excess cleaning solution
• Do not use compressed air to clean the filters as the high pressure, oily residue, cold air, particulates, and moisture may cause damage

Storage

• When not in use, keep the filters stored inside the included hard case to protect from debris and liquids. 
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or high temperature and humidity. Recommended storage conditions: temperature range +5°C to +45°C with humidity <60%RH.
• Keep the filters protected. Do not twist or bend. Avoid vibration, shock, and pressure to the filters. Localized or spot pressure can damage the crystals causing them to become unresponsive. 

Safety

• Should the Electronic ND filter become damaged and the skin exposed to the liquid crystal material, immediately remove material using soap and water. 
• Should the liquid crystal material come in contact with the eye, immediately flush using running water for at least five minutes. Seek medical advice.

Should the filters become contaminated with any particulates or other substances, use an Air Bulb or Rocket Blower to remove as much as possible before cleaning. 

Cleaning the filter without removing solid particles and contaminants could cause damage to the optical surface during cleaning. 

It is recommended to use either Isopropyl (IPA) or Ethyl alcohol cleaning solutions suitable for optical elements along with a 16mm or 24mm sensor swab. 

When attempting to clean the filter: 

1. Moisten the sensor swab with a couple of drops of cleaner and line-up the sensor swab ensuring that its edges are flat and at a 45 degree angle to the top surface of the filter.
2. Gently, in a single pass, swab from one side to the other (This will avoid smearing debris further around the filter). 
3. Move to the bottom section of the filter and repeat the single swipe pass. 

If any debris has remained on the filter, repeat the above steps with a new sensor swab and cleaning liquid.