Canon Australia is posting the following information in line with a global announcement regarding the Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E7 for the EOS 5D Mark III digital SLR camera.
Due to the low product volume, Canon Australia has confirmed by individual serial number that it has not distributed any affected products in the Australian market.
Canon Australia has no means of identifying what products have entered the Australian market from overseas via other channels (direct import from overseas or via local reseller of overseas products). However, we provide the following information to assist end users of such products to identify whether their product is affected and support available.
Canon apologises for any inconvenience caused by this issue. Canon takes quality issues seriously and has taken steps to avoid this issue recurring.
Phenomenon
The rubber on the top surface of some WFT-E7 units produced in certain lots between 9 April and 13 July may turn white after a short period of time. We have determined after inquiry with the rubber manufacturer and analysis that the substance zinc bis (N,N’-dimethyldithiocarbamate) is what causes the rubber surface to turn white.
Zinc bis is not used in the production of this product but is created by a chemical reaction. The quantity of rubber accelerator used in the affected production lots was slightly higher than usual. A chemical reaction with the rubber accelerator and other substances may cause zinc bis deposits on the rubber surface and the surface of the rubber to turn white. High temperature and high humidity may contribute to this condition.
Affected Product
Some WFT-E7 wireless file transmitter units produced between 9 April and 13 July are affected.
If the first two digits of the serial number are 03 through 06 and the fifth digit is 1, the unit is affected.
03xx1xxxxx, 04xx1xxxxx, 05xx1xxxxx, 06xx1xxxxx ([x] represents any optional number. )
Please note that WFT-E7 units produced outside the designated production lots will not be affected.
Market Support
Canon distributors in each country are making provisions to offer free support for the affected products that they distribute in their respective markets.
As Australian market distributor, Canon Australia has prevented affected product from entering the Australian market via its authorised channel and service will therefore not be necessary for Australian product.
Purchasers of affected overseas product should first contact their point of purchase to access the service provisions of their relevant distributor.
Caution
The amount of zinc bis detected during our testing was minimal. While Canon has not received any reports of injury or allergic reactions, it is possible for zinc bis, in the small amount found in the rubber surface, to cause allergic reactions*, such as a rash, when it comes in contact with skin of sensitive persons. In addition, if eyes are rubbed after contact with the substance, symptoms such as red eyes may develop.
As a precautionary measure, thoroughly wash your hands with water if they have come in contact with the rubber surface that has turned white. If any medical symptoms develop, please consult your physician immediately.
*Please note that the occurrence of an allergic skin reaction on contact with this substance depends on length and type of contact with the substance, individual health and physical conditions, and individual skin sensitivity. Not everyone will be affected by allergic symptoms.
Contact Information for Inquiries
Canon Australia Services & Support 13 13 83 (Local call)
Close
