Wired Tethered Shooting – Olympus Camera Setup (iPad)

This guide provides step-by-step instructions to configure your Olympus camera and iPad for wired tethered shooting with Evoto. Following these instructions will help ensure a stable connection and optimal image transfer directly from your camera to your iPad.

Important Note: Evoto currently supports Olympus E-M1X for tethered shooting on iPad. Other Olympus models may not function correctly. iPadOS 16 or above is required for compatibility.


1. iPad Setup & Cable Selection

The type of data cable and adapter you’ll need depends on the port on your iPad.

iPad Data Cable Interfaces

  • USB Type-C:Most iPad models released after 2021 feature a USB Type-C port. These iPads can typically connect directly to a camera using a compatible USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to USB-A/B data cable (depending on your camera’s port).
  • Lightning:Most iPad models released before 2021 feature a Lightning port. Since Lightning data cables do not directly support OTG (On-The-Go) functionality required for direct camera connection, you will need to use a Lightning to USB-A adapter that has OTG capability.

Camera Data Cable Interfaces

Cameras can have various types of data cable interfaces (e.g., USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, Mini-USB, Micro-USB). Ensure your cable or adapter setup matches both your iPad’s port and your camera’s port.

  • Specific camera models supported by different data cablescan be referenced in the table below

  • Additional Note:For other camera models not explicitly mentioned, please refer to your camera’s configuration and interface type to determine the correct cable. The information above serves as a general reference.

Enable Software Permissions

Before connecting, ensure Evoto has the necessary permissions on your iPad:

  • When you first open Evoto and enter a project, a prompt will appear: “Evoto would like to access the camera.”Please tap “Allow” to grant these permissions.

  • If you accidentally tapped “Don’t Allow,”you can go to your iPad’s Settings app to manually enable camera permissions for Evoto.

  • macOS (for specific file access scenarios, though less common for direct iPad-to-camera):For macOS 15.0 and above systems (relevant if the iPad is used as a bridge to a Mac for file transfer, though not direct tethering), you may need to turn on File & Folders permission in Privacy & Security -> Removable Volumes.

Connection Overview

The iPad with a Type-C port can be connected directly to a camera using a data cable. The iPad with a Lightning port requires an OTG Lightning adapter (or Lightning to USB Camera Adapter) to connect.

Note: A memory card must be installed in the camera for tethered shooting to function properly.

2. Olympus Camera Settings (for Wired Tethering)

Adjust these settings on your Olympus camera to prepare it for wired tethered shooting with your iPad:

A. Power Management

To prevent the camera from disconnecting due to inactivity, configure the following power settings:

  • Go to MenuSettings (often found under the D4 or J2 tab, depending on model) and configure:
    • Backlit LCD:Hold

 

    • Sleep:Off

 

    • Auto Power Off:Off

 

    • Quick Sleep Mode:Off

 

B. USB Mode

Set the USB mode to PC Remote for tethered control and image transfer.

  • Menu Path:Menu → Settings (often D4) → USB Mode → PC Remote.
  • Alternatively:You can set USB Mode to Auto, and then select the correct PC Remote icon when prompted upon connection to the iPad.

C. Camera Firmware Version

For optimal performance and compatibility, ensure your Olympus camera is running the latest firmware version. Firmware updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and enhanced tethering stability.

  • To check your firmware version:Navigate through your camera’s menu, typically under a Settings (wrench icon) or Software Version For the E-M1X, you might find it under MENU → U → e → U → 6. Reset/Clock/Language/Others → Firmware Version.
  • To update firmware:Olympus/OM System cameras typically require the OM Workspace software on a computer to update firmware. Visit the OM Digital Solutions support website, download the latest OM Workspace, connect your camera, and follow their specific update instructions.

 

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