Sensor Cleaning CMOS

[elk311]

Where or how do you clean your digital camera sensor? Do you clean it yourself or have it sent out?

I can erase most spots with my editing software but I don't want to just keep letting the dust accumulate...

Any advice would be appreciated.

[robodad]

I have a "bugger sucker" like when you were a kid your mom sucked the snot outta your brain with, then just lock up the mirror and blow air into there with it while holding it upside down being carefull not to break anything in there, and be sure to use a clean dry one too !! or send it in !!!

[Tom Reichner]

This is what I use:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/259157-REG/Giottos_AA1900_Rocket_Air_Blower_.html

I got mine at Amazon, but the B&H link I gave you has abut the same price.

This works great and is cheap.  I've never used anything else.  The other options are expensive, and they require that you actually touch the sensor with the cleaning apparatus (brush, swab, etc).

When using the blower, just take extra care to ensure that the tip does not touch the sensor.  You should be able to keep the tip 2 to 3 inches away from the sensor, and it still has enough power to blow all the dust off.  This is also great because you can use it out in the field, and when doing so you can actually clean your sensor thoroughly in about 20 seconds, start to finish.  I like to clean the sensor each time I change lenses or take a teleconverter off or put one on (I rarely do it this often, but I try to keep up with it as much as possible).

[huntnphool]

I use one of those too Tom, its works well. Most cameras have a shutter lock for cleaning, lock it open and with the opening facing the floor use the rocket to blow off the sensor, letting the dust fall out of the camera. NEVER touch the sensor, or you can plan on sending it in to be professionally cleaned.

[elk311]

Perfect, thanks all ! I like the idea of the rocket blower, getting one today. I emailed Glazer's and they want $95 which isn't too bad considering the damage that can be done if I did it but what sucks is the week or more that my camera will be in transit/repair.

I'll spend the $95 on a new fill flash (SB-400) and rocket blast the big chunks, editing out the remainder. Works for me! 

[wabow]

The rocket blaster and a sensor pen are the easiest combo of tools. If youve used a lens pen the sensor pen will be easy to get the hang of.

Don