Response to How Much Film?

Just to muddy the electronic waters further, don't forget about ESD (electrostatic discharge). Solid state circuits, especially microprocessors and those designed to operate at low voltages (like in cameras) are subject to damage from static far less intense than the usual "doorknob shock". The body usually provides decent protection, though if you walked across a carpet and "zapped" a body in the right place, you'd almost certainly fry something. More worrisome is if the lensmount has contacts for autofocus or other communication. Zapping those contacts with the lens off provides a direct path into the circuitry. Bottom line is just to be aware of ESD and take special care in dry weather. Never touch electrical contacts when handling equipment. ESD damage is famous for showing up some time after the event. An IC will be damaged, but still function for weeks or months as it gradually deteriorates. Then, usually at the worst possible time, it fails. Worst case is when a manufacturer has an ESD problem in the factory, as the return rate then skyrockets. Note that products that comply with the European CE directive are specifically tested for resistance to static damage, so the CE mark is a good thing to look for.

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