In article <57e1us$fs9@necco.harvard.edu>, haibo@matsci2.harvard.edu says...

>From this news group, I am already familiar with the difference between
>the newer (with tripod collar and two touch zoom) and older version,
>and I know that the older Nikon 80-200f2.8D really cries for a tripod
>collar.
>But the dilemma is, the newer Nikon 80-200f2.8D is $1070 at B&H
>(limited quantity, $100 rebate does not apply) while the older one is
>only $800. Therefore I am asking those folks who have personal
>experience with the older version the age old question one more time:
>1) Can I get away with the vibration problem, if the camera (N90) is
>mounted on a Bogan 3021 tripod with 3047 pan&tilt head? This is the
>most steady support I have at the moment. I mean without the aid of a
>tripod collar by a third party maker.

No, but the vibration problem is in the tripod, and the newer Nikkor
will not help much with that - the 3021 has a strong tendency to
vibrate. If it is used with the legs not extended, it is considerably
better. Also, the torque applied to the head when the camera is turned
for a vertical photo would be unacceptable with a lightweight tripod
(I'm afraid it's a bracket, or the newer lens version if you stick
with that tripod with the 80-200mm f2.8....).

>2) Does the old 80-200f2.8D "auto" zoom when pointed straight down?

A new one doesn't, but I could see a worn one doing it - but when
would you ever need to point it straight down for photography (at
least when it is not hand-held, when your grip on it will prevent
self-zooming)? This is NOT a copy lens....
BTW, my own feelings about these two lens versions is that the
single-ring zoom-focus of the older is almost essential for
manual-focus use of this lens (the only way I use it). If you use
AF, the 2-ring design is practical. And, the speed and mass of the
f2.8 lens do help in hand-holding, but if the lens is primarily to be
used tripod-mounted, unless there is a need for its speed, I would
consider using a slower zoom, or primes if you do not need to change
FL's in a hurry...
Hope This Helps