Yes, it really works!

WHAT IT IS

The Sony SPK-THC Marine Case "SportsPack" is a sturdy plastic "jacket" that fits around the Sony Cyber-Shot T9 Digital Camera, making the camera temporarily water and weather resistant. It is a great value and a nice alternative to buying a separate underwater camera.


CONSTRUCTION AND SPECS

The SportsPack is constructed of white plastic with a silicon-rubber gasket to keep out moisture and glass on each side that provides clear views for the camera's lens and LCD screen.

The SportsPack adds 4.41 ounces to the weight of your camera, and has exterior dimensions of 4.69 x 2.91 x 0.94 inches -- still mighty compact for a waterproof camera. A strap with an attached plastic buoy is included (the buoy is bulky but ensures that your camera will float if dropped when in the water).

The package also includes a vial of gasket grease (more on that later), anti-fogging lens solution, and a spacer for storage.


PERFORMANCE CLAIMS

Sony claims that the SportsPack will keep water out of your Cybershot T9 camera to a depth of 9.8 feet, making it appropriate for the swimming pool or snorkeling, but not for serious diving.

Sony also recommends the SportsPack for keeping your camera safe from the elements, such as for a day at the beach, or in inclement weather. This makes a lot of sense, particularly if your camera is going to be used by children; however I noted that the listed operating temperature range is 32 to 104 degrees F. This suggests that it might not be appropriate for extended use in the snow.


WARNINGS GALORE

The instructions for the SportsPack appear to have been written by Sony's legal department. It is made abundantly clear that Sony will not be responsible for any damage done to their camera should the SportsPack fail to protect it. Obviously, if the camera isn't installed properly, or if the waterproof gasket isn't maintained properly, or if the Sportspack cracks, it's not going to work. Instructions for installation, maintenance, and inspection are detailed and repeated, with Sony warning about failure scenarios so many times that anybody reading the instructions is bound to become paranoid about using the product.

Fortunately, it's really not as complicated as they make it sound.


MESSY BUT EASY SETUP

Every time you use the SportsPack, the instructions call for you to inspect the silicone-rubber gasket to make sure it is in good condition (not twisted and dust free), then lubricate the gasket with grease, rub a drop of anti-fog solution on the glass, lock the device, and test it underwater for 3 minutes to make sure it is leak-free. Depending on the conditions under which you use the SportPack, I would imagine that these steps aren't always necessary, but what are you going to do -- Follow the directions, or risk ruining your camera?

Lubricating the gasket sounds like a pain, but it's really simple. The gasket is a rubber ring that slips out easily. You put a drop of the lubricant (it feels like vaseline) on your fingers, rub it along the length of the rubber, and replace the gasket, being careful not to get lubricant on the glass. After washing your hands, you're ready to go. The camera slips into the SportsPack like a glove and it locks in place with one click. Expect it to take 15 minutes the first time you to it and probably 5 minutes once you're comfortable with the procedure.

NOTE: There are additional warnings about potential damage if you expose the SportsPack to salt water (something most purchasers probably plan to do). After using the SportsPack in salt water, Sony recommends that you remove the camera and soak the case in fresh water for 30 minutes before storing it.


USING YOUR CAMERA WITH THE SPORTSPACK

Once you've gotten over the anxiety of setting it up, the SPK-THC SportsPack is a wonder. Every button and switch on the your Cybershot T9 camera has a corresponding button or switch on the outside of the sportspack, giving you access to all the camera controls while the camera is enclosed.

The instructions call for you to turn off the camera's infrared focus-assist sensor, but every other function works as usual. You can take photos or movies, use the zoom, change shooting modes, turn on or off the steadyshot feature, etc. The flash works as well, though you should expect the flash range to be a little diminished, since it is illuminating the subject through an extra layer of glass.

In my experience, the oversized controls on the SportsPack are actually easier to use than the smaller ones on the camera itself. The small size of the Cybershot T9 is wonderful for its portability, but when you are holding it to take a photo, the extra bulk of the SportsPack is actually a benefit.

One thing you can't do while the camera is in the SportsPack is access the battery or memory card door, so before using it, you should make sure your battery is well charged and you have inserted a memory card with enough available space for all the pictures and recordings you plan to take.

IN SUMMARY

If you are looking for light-duty waterproof compact digital camera, I highly recommend the Cybershot T9 in conjunction with the SPK-THC SportsPack. If you need a waterproof camera for occasional use and you already own the Sony Cybershot T9, then the SPK-THC SportsPack is a no-brainer.