Introduction

The Canon FTb is a 35mm SLR film camera manufactured by Canon from 1971 - 1976 with the Canon FD lens mount. The Canon FTb is a fully mechanical shutter operating camera with speeds from 1 second to 1/1000 and bulb. 

This means that the Canon FTb does not require a battery for photograph capturing. However, there is the option to use a battery in the Canon FTb to power its built-in light meter inside the camera which can be referenced in the viewfinder.

Which Battery to Use?

Originally, the Canon FTB was designed to use 1.3V Mercury batteries. However, due to modern regulations and environmental concerns, mercury battery sales are now banned in many countries. 

The readily available solution today to replace the light meter battery for the Canon FTb is the WeinCell MRB625 1.35V Mercury-Free Battery (PX625). Available on Amazon and most local camera stores.

The WeinCell battery provides the most accurate voltage requirement for the Canon FTb to ensure accurate readings in the light meter. The downside of this battery is the longevity and you may find yourself replacing this battery often. Be sure to turn off the light meter when it is not in use to save on its battery life.

Alternative Battery

If the WeinCell battery is unavailable in your area, there is an alternative option of the Loopacell 625A PX625A 1.5V Battery. The major downside of this battery is the higher-than-required voltage for the camera. 1.5V will provide an inaccurate reading for the light meter, however it can be compensated in your exposure settings.

Replacing the Battery

Replacement of the Canon FTb battery is simple and quick.

1. Open the battery compartment with a coin to remove its cover.

2. Inside the battery compartment cover is indicated the voltage requirement of the battery and a diagram indicating that the negative end of the battery should be facing the camera’s inside, and the positive end towards the spring of the battery compartment cover.

3. Close the battery compartment with a coin and tighten it.

How to Use the Canon FTb Light Meter

To use the light meter, simply flip the switch from “OFF” to “ON”.

The exposure needle will move as it reads the light of the environment coming into the camera. Changing the shutter speed will also adjust the exposure needle. Changing the aperture on the lens will adjust the circle on the light meter.

A good rule of thumb for exposure is lining up the needle with the circle through the center.

That’s it!

This is how you change the battery on the Canon FTb and operate its light meter functionality with it. If you have any questions or suggestions for more educational articles regarding the Canon FTb, please feel free to leave them in the comment section below.