The dust reduction system is a method to instantaneously shake off dust particles introduced from the external surroundings while changing lenses, as well as miniscule particles originating from within the camera caused by abrasion of individual parts. The OLYMPUS E-SYSTEM utilizes the SSWF (Super Sonic Wave Filter), which uses a powerful ultrasonic vibration to shake off dust and debris.

(1) Prevention of Dust Intrusion

By creating a sealed area between the Super Sonic Wave Filter (SSWF) and the image sensor's light sensing surface, dust entry into the optical zones of the camera are prevented. A seal is created by using 2 rubber seals, one between the image sensor's protective glass and the LPF (Optical Low Pass Filter), and the other between the LPF and SSWF.

(2) Prevention of Dust Shadows

The second point is creating sufficient distance between the optical receiver and SSWF to eliminate decreased lighting caused by dust particle shadows, which could end up being visible in pictures.

(3) Ultrasonic Dust Prevention

And third of all, the ultrasonic vibrations created by the SSWF actively removes dust on the lens side of the SSWF, retaining the dust outside of the optical passages where it will not cause adverse effects on the image. The removed dust is retained in an adhesive retention area built in beneath the SSWF. While there are several materials available that repel dust particles, the number of materials actually useable are reduced as the filter itself cannot cause any form of reflection. The SSWF consists of a circular glass panel, encompassed with a piezoelectric ceramic ring.