The Minolta Alpha 101si is a 35mm camera from the 1980s. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras. In the USA, it was offered as the Minolta Maxxum 350si. It was also available under the name Minolta Maxxum Panorama Elite.
An interchangeable lens mount is available on the 35mm camera. Lenses with a Minolta A bayonet can be used. An autofocus system takes care of the focusing on this model. It is also possible to adjust the focus manually. Here, the camera also indicates whether it thinks the selected focus is correct.
When it comes to exposure settings, however, there is no manual mode. There is a normal program automatic, this sets aperture and shutter speed automatically. There are also various scene programs for different applications.
The exposure meter supports films with values between ISO 25 and ISO 5000, and the sensitivity is automatically set via the DX code on the cartridge. If this code is not present, the camera sets a value of ISO 100.
For shutter speed, the camera has a choice of values from 1/2000 second to 30 seconds. There is no bulb mode on this model.
A flash is installed for pictures in low light. According to the manual, the guide number is 12 (ISO 100). The charging time of the flash is 2 seconds. Additionally, an external flash can be attached to the Minolta connector.
The photo camera has a self-timer and a tripod thread on the bottom of the housing. There is also a data function and a fake panorama mode. A display on the top shows the set values.
The camera requires a 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*) to provide power for all functions. You can easily buy this battery online.
Films for the Minolta Alpha 101si
What film format is the Minolta Alpha 101si designed for? The camera exposes 35mm format films. The amount of film material for color and black and white images in this format is still extensive.
If you are looking for a good 35mm film for black and white images, the Kodak T-Max 100* is a possible choice.
For color photography, the Kodak Gold 200* could be an alternative. According to various reviews, they work well for everyday shooting and deliver solid results. Of course, there is a wide range of additional suitable films for this camera.
The exposure area of the 35mm photo camera is 24mm x 36mm. Each frame causes the camera to automatically advance the film. The motor allows approximately 1 frame per second.
Production of the Minolta Alpha 101si has ended and today you can only buy it used. Depending on the condition, the price of the camera may differ.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Pictures per second | 1 |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta A mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 30 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 5000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Yes |
| Panorama function | Yes |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Flash Connection | Connection for Minolta flash units |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x 2CR5 battery |
| Names in other markets | USA: Minolta Maxxum 350si, USA: Minolta Maxxum Panorama Elite |
FAQ about the Minolta Alpha 101si
What type of camera is the Minolta Alpha 101si, and what focusing options does it offer?
It's a 35mm SLR camera from the 1980s. It features autofocus, but also allows for manual focus adjustment with a focus confirmation indicator.
Does this Minolta model have manual exposure control, and what is its ISO range?
No, it doesn't have a manual exposure mode; it uses program auto exposure. Its ISO range is 25 to 5000, automatically detected via DX code or defaulting to ISO 100.
What kind of flash capabilities does the camera possess?
It has a built-in flash with a guide number of 12 (at ISO 100) and a two-second recycle time. An external flash can also be attached.
What is the film format used and what is the shooting speed?
It uses standard 35mm film. The motor drive allows for approximately one frame per second.
How is the Minolta Alpha 101si acquired today, and what battery does it require?
Production has ceased, so it's only available used. It requires a 2CR5 battery for operation.