Optical filter block

[allan473]

I sent in my A1 and Sony said I need to replace the optical filter block. Can someone tell me what is the optical filter block, what does it do, and how I might have damaged it?

[FunWithCameras]

Good question! Not a term I have heard before.

I wonder if it’s the stack of filters on top of the sensor, but I’ve not heard it called a “block”. It can get scratched if you use a sensor cleaning swab when there is something abrasive on the sensor (like sand). 

I will be curious if you get an answer. I hope it’s not something the repair man made up (like the “dual flanged elliptical running cam” that my old repair guy kept telling me I needed to replace on my car engine, before bursting into laughter at his own wit).