Having missed the mass order for copper hill swap, I decided to try something similar for my DIY. I went shopping in Funan and found 1 store with a pack of 6 swaps for about $14.
Let me share my learning history. I was checking my camera before my trip last year and I saw some dust on my sensor. I was so adamant of removing them that I DIY using cotton butts. Alas, I saw more lines and I thought this time my camera gone case. It spoilt my holiday and I didn't bring any extra but just that camera and a lens for the trip. 1st lesson, don't rush to do thing last minute.
After the trip, I went straight to NSC thinking I may have to change my camera. Then the service guy say it is just fibre and they managed to clean them for $30. Wow. I know the sensor actually quite robust leh.
Then of course if you buy Copper HIll, you can clean until the camera fails, maybe. So with that cleaning experience, I am now trying this (itchy backside). Today, I use this China made swap and try cleaning the sensor after studying Youtube a few times.
Let me share this. It is actually not too difficult. The sensor isn't that easy to crack or scratch if you use the right tool. Of course you can't use too much force and you don't need to anyway. It is also not true (or rather only way) that you cannot swipe twice using the same swap. Your sensor isn't that dirty that your swap will be very dusty.
My end result, I managed to remove 90% this morning. I could have continue but after shooting at f18, I don't see most ad am satisfied. I think I am OK and I will leave them for my next try. Key to this are:
1) Do not hurry or panic if you find more dust on your camera after your first swipe. You can always repeat.
2) Make sure you lay out your tools properly and on a clean table. If you don't get it right the 1st time, just repeat your steps again.
3) As long as you are not using excessive strength or wrong tool, nothing is going to happen to your sensor. It is just dirty and can be cleaned.
4) Last but not least, really cannot, stop and don't do anything funny. Bring to the service centre. 1 or 2 spots of dust or 100 spots, the service centre also charge you the same price. haha
Hope the above experience helps those who wish to DIY.
