Ikelite: How To Assemble a Complete Underwater Camera System

Ikelite 200DLM/C Underwater Housing for Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera

Nikon's entry-level DSLR camera provides good image quality and responsiveness in a compact system. The 200DLM/C Underwater Housing is the perfect companion allowing the use of the Nikon D3500 in or around the water for scuba, snorkeling, surf, pool, or any adventure.

This housing requires the addition of a compatible DLM Lens Port for waterproof operation. Lens Port not included.
 

Advantages of the Nikon D3500 System

• Compact DSLR system is substantially smaller and lighter than most interchangeable lens cameras and housings
• 24 megapixel still images and 1080p HD video
• RAW image capture
• Accepts Nikon F-mount lenses without an adapter
• CIPA battery life of 1550 shots
• Supports optional TTL strobe flash by electrical sync cord
• Compatible with optional external viewfinders

 

Ergonomics and handling

Good ergonomics are critical when you need to concentrate on composition, focus, and proper exposure. Large, curved control levers put the most important controls right where you need them: shutter and AE-L/AF-L. This combination allows you to shoot with or without back button focus, an advanced technique that is useful for tack sharp focus of super macro and fast moving subjects. Each lever can be extended using the optional Shutter Trigger Extension # 4077.93 for perfect spacing when using a right-hand handle.

The command dial, mode, power, live view switch, and lens release controls are all operated intuitively via premium soft-touch knobs. Stainless steel, direct-drive rotating controls are virtually fail-safe and user serviceable and adjustable in a pinch.

All rear camera buttons are accessible by smooth action, corrosion-proof acetal push buttons for reliable performance and easy maintenance. These controls are clearly labeled by laser engraving on the back of the housing that never fades or falls off.

Two 1/4-20 threaded mounting points are included on the bottom of the housing for simple, rotation-free attachment of a tray and handle system. Handles provide improved ergonomics underwater and are the foundation for your lighting mounts. The Tray with Dual Quick Release Handles # 9523.64 is the most popular choice for both handling and attachment of accessories.
 

Set Up

The camera mount is front-loading for easy installation and removal. A small mounting plate attaches to the bottom of the camera and secures in the front of the housing. The camera mounting plate does not need to be removed from the camera for surface use or when changing the battery or memory cards. The mounting plate features a 1/4-20 threaded mount on the bottom so that it can be attached to a tripod on the surface.
 

Confidence

The unique rear seal design prevents accidental twisting or stretching of the o-ring for simple and confident assembly. Ikelite has eliminated the need for an o-ring groove or channel which can trap sand, dirt, or debris. Two double-passivated stainless steel locking lid snaps are simple to use and virtually unbreakable. The clear back allows you to see the o-ring form a solid, watertight seal as it closes.
 

Vacuum Testing

A spare 1/2-20 threaded accessory port is provided on the side of the housing for easy installation of the optional Vacuum Kit # 47012. A vacuum kit allows you to draw a vacuum on the housing to check for leaks prior to entering the water.

Drawing a vacuum on the system also provides extra security at the surface of the water, especially important when using the housing in rough surf.
 

Viewfinders

The camera's large, super-bright LCD screen is viewable edge-to-edge through the back of the housing. The included Super-eye Viewfinder provides an enhanced view of the camera's optical viewfinder when viewed through a dive mask.

This housing supports the use of optional Straight Magnified Viewfinder # 6890 or 45° Magnified Viewfinder (Type 1) # 6891.1. These sophisticated high-performance viewfinders provide a larger, brighter view of the camera's viewfinder and are essential for super accurate focus and framing. Either magnified viewfinder attaches and removes quickly and easily and is cross-compatible with a wide variety of interchangeable lens camera models.
 

Lighting

Light is absorbed as it travels through even short distances underwater, making colors appear dull or monochromatic. To preserve the natural colors of your subject, it's important to stay within arm's reach—no more than 3-4 feet (1m) away. For the best results, Ikelite recommends adding an external flash or high-powered constant-on light if you'll be diving regularly below 15' (3m).

This housing supports your choice of shooting manual strobes or adding TTL electronics.

You can enjoy the fastest and most accurate TTL exposure on the market by adding the DL1 DS Link Nikon TTL Converter Ikelite NT3 Hotshoe Kit # 46056 and a compatible Ikelite DS strobe. Exposure compensation can be used added or subtracted in the camera.

Reliable locking connectors between the hotshoe and bulkhead make it easy to install the optional TTL electronics or carry back up parts when traveling.

The built-in flash is not usable in this installation. Triggering of fiber optic strobes is not supported at this time. A strobe must be connected by an electrical sync cord.

A bright constant-on video light can be used instead of or in addition to a flash. A constant-on light is not as bright as a strobe flash. Constant-on lights do provide added versatility because they can be used for focus assist and for improved colors when shooting video.

There is a simple rule that brighter is better underwater. A high-quality lighting system can produce magazine-quality results.
 

Port System

It couldn't be more simple to change ports than this system—just press the port on and tighten three thumb screws. Feel positive reinforcement that the port is secure with simple parts you can trust in a remote location.

This housing accepts ports from Ikelite's DLM Port System to accommodate a selection of the best zoom, macro, and wide angle lenses for underwater use. Ikelite's custom optical grade acrylic domes components provide the color, clarity, and durability of glass at a fraction of the travel weight and cost.
 

Durability and corrosion free performance

Ikelite's white ABS-PC blend housing provides strength and corrosion free performance year with minimal maintenance. The specially formulated color deflects the sun to keep your camera running cooler, longer. Compared to black or clear housings, the light color provides superior contrast for an enhanced view of the camera, LCD screen, and O-ring seal.

Ikelite products are designed, built and tested in the USA. Ikelite uses locally sourced, top-grade materials. Ikelite's housings are built by hand and individually tested for fit and function. Every unit is water pressure tested to 200 feet (60m). Ikelite backs their products with over 50 years of experience and the best reputation for service within the dive industry.
 

Specifications

• 200 ft (60m) depth rating
• DLM Type C port mount
• Controls for all camera functions; access is not provided for Diopter Adjustment Control
• Ikelite flash bulkhead connector with manual hotshoe
• Two 1/4-20 threaded tray mounts with 3" (76mm) spacing
• Slightly negative buoyancy in fresh water
• Actual buoyancy varies depending on the choice of lens and port
• 2.8 lbs (1280 g)
• 7.5 x 5.73 x 5.9 in (191 x 146 x 150 mm)
• ABS-PC, acrylic, and acetyl construction
• 2 year limited warranty

In the Box

• Housing
• Rear O-Ring # 0110 (installed)
• Front O-Ring # 0132.36 (installed)
• Waterproof bulkhead cap # 9104.7 (installed)
• Silicone lubricant 1cc tube

Lens port sold separately; A compatible DLM lens port is required for waterproof operation.