6-bit encoder kit for Leica M lenses, Leica SL

• Lets the camera recognize the lens: You code your manual lens yourself. Your digital Leica then knows which focal length is mounted, without you having to set it manually every time you change lenses.
• Affordable alternative to other coding methods: Clip it on, color in the dots, and let it dry. That is all there is to coding it yourself.
• EXIF data and image corrections included: The camera stores the focal length and lens in the metadata and applies vignetting and distortion correction.
• Important for image stabilization: On the SL2 and SL3, IBIS only works accurately when the correct focal length is stored.
• Marker included: A special marker for filling in the dots is included.
• Clip-on template, no drilling: The encoder clips onto the mount and serves as a template for coloring in the dots; the coding can be removed without leaving any residue if needed.

Compatibility

Compatible with all lenses featuring a Leica M mount, whether older Leica, Voigtländer, or Zeiss lenses. On the camera side, all digital Leica M cameras, as well as the SL and Q with an M adapter, read the code. Current Leica lenses are coded at the factory. You can find the code for your lens in the coding table below.

Contents

• Standard: 1x 6-Bit Encoder Kit + 1x special marker
• Set: Standard + 1x red dot cover (set of 2)
• Complete: Set + 1x Quick Focus Tab

Technical details

• Encoder material: engineering plastic
• Fit: designed for Leica M mounts
• Made in Germany

Description

You can complete the Leica 6-bit coding yourself with this encoder kit and code your manual M-mount lenses, whether older Leica, Voigtländer, or Zeiss lenses. Your digital Leica (M, SL, Q with adapter) will then recognize the focal length, store it in the EXIF data, and apply internal image corrections.

We are still learning when it comes to the pen: Many customers had problems with conventional felt-tip pens because their ink often has a glossy finish and reflects the light from the sensors in the mount instead of absorbing it. Others have told us that a tip that is too wide does not fit cleanly through the openings of the stencil and wears out quickly. Which pen solves both best is something we are currently testing together with customers.

The encoder clips onto the mount and serves as a template for coloring in the dots, without drilling. The coding withstands everyday use and can be removed without leaving any residue if needed.
Tip: If there is a screw at a coding position, simply fill it with a dab of white paint and paint over it black afterward if the code requires it.

Coding instructions

In the guide, we show you how to attach the encoder, which codes match your lens, and what to look out for: Coding Leica M lenses.

Coding table

In the table, choose the lens that most closely matches yours (focal length and maximum aperture).

Legend: W = leave white (no paint, bare metal), S = paint black

The complete 6-bit coding table (49 lenses), including an illustrated step-by-step guide, is available as a printable PDF on the Downloads page, in case you want to check the coding directly on the lens.

Special cases: Summilux-M 35 f/1.4 „Steel Rim": code like Summilux-M 35 f/1.4 ASPH (011101); Thambar-M 90 f/2.2 (Soft Focus): best left uncoded or coded like Elmarit-M 90 f/2.8 (100110). Current Leica lenses are factory-coded. Source: lavidaleica.com / Match Technical (community data, no guarantee).