MECABLITZ 54 AF-1 M - External Flash METZ - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL MECABLITZ 54 AF-1 M METZ

4.3 ADI-Blitzsteuerung (Advanced Distance Integration]

5.7 Autofocus-meefflits

2.1. Mounting the flash unit ............

2.1.1 Mounting the flash unit on the camera .

2.1.2Removing the flash unit from the camera

2.2 Power supply ...................

2.2.1 Suitable batteries.

2.2.2Replacing batteries .

2.3 Switching the flash unit on and off.

2.4 Auto-OFF for the Hash unit...

3. Programmed Auto Flash Mode

4. Operating modes of the flash unit .

4.1.1 Automatic TTL fill Mash in à daÿlight. .

4.1.3 Correct exposure indication in TTL lash mode

5. Flash unit and camera functions .

5.1 Flash readiness indication ......

5.2 Automatic flash sync speed control dresse

5.3 Displays in the cameras viewfinder or LCD monitor ........... 60

5.4.2Maximum flash range indication in the manual lash modes M and Mo 61

5.7 AF measuring beam . ... 63

5.8 Triggering control ..63

59 Modellng light ..64

5.10 Return to basic setting . . . ...64

6. Special remarks concerning the cameras . ..64

6.1 Special functions that are not supported in ash mode . 64

6.1.1 Creative Pa and Ps program control . LL ..64

7. Optional extras .........

8. Advice in the event of a fault.

9. Maintenance and care .

Guide number table for TTL and full light output M in the imperial system . 100

54 AF-1M 03.08.2004 10:53 Uhr Seite 53 Foreword We congratulate you on purchasing this flash unit and thank you for your confidence in Metz products. Itis only natural that you should want to use your flash unit straight av However, we recommend that you study these Operating Instructions before- hand to be able to fully exploit and uilize all he capabilties offered. This Alash unit is compatible with analog Minolta “Dynax” and “Maxrum” cameras and digital "Dimage” cameras. f cannot be used for cameras made by other manufacturers 15 Please also open the back cover with the illustrations.

1. Safety instructions

+ The flash unit is exclusively intended and approved for photographic use! + Never fire a flash in the vicinity of flammable gases or liquids (petrol, solvents, etc.]! DANGER OF EXPLOSION! + Never take flash shots of car, bus or train drivers, or of motorcycle and bicycle riders, whilst they are travelling. They could be blinded by the light and cause an accident! + Never fire a flash in the immediate vicinity of the eyes! Flash fired direct- ly in front of the eyes of a person or animal can damage the retina and lead to severe visual disorders - even blindness! + Only use the approved power sources listed in the Operating Instruc- tions! + Do not expose batteries to excessive heat, sunshine, fire and the like! + Never throw exhausted batteries on to a fire! + Exhausted batteries should be immediately removed from the flash unit! Lye leaking out of spent batteries will damage the unit. + Never recharge dry-cell batteries! + Do not expose the flash unit or battery charger to dripping or splashing water! + Protect the flash unit from excessive heat and humi ty! Do not store the flash unit in the glove compartment of a car! + Never place material that is impervious to light in front of, or directly on, the reflector screen. The reflector screen must be perfecily clean when a flash is fired. The high energy of the flash light will burn the material or damage the reflector screen if this is not observed. + Do not touch the reflector screen after a series of flash shots. Danger of burns! + Never disassemble the flashgun! DANGER: HIGH VOLTAGE! There are no components inside the flashgun that can be repaired by a layman. + When taking a series of flash shots at full light output and fast recycling times as provided by NiCad battery operation, make sure to observe an interval of at least 10 minutes after 15 flashes, otherwise the flash unit will be overloaded. + The flash unit may only be used in combination with a camera's flash unit if the latter can completely be folded out! + Quick changes in temperature may cause condensation. Therefore give the flashgun time to acclimatize! + Never use defective batteries!

54 AF-1M 03.08.2004 10:53 Uhr Seite 54 Pan Dedicated flash functions Dedicated Hash functions are flash functions that have been specifically adapted to a given camera system, The supported flash functions depend on the type of the camera used. It is impossible to describe in detail all camera types and their individual dedicated flash functions within the framework of these instructions. Therefore, please refer to the flash mode description in your camera's operating instructions to find out which functions are sup- ported and which ones have to be set manually on the camera. Flash readiness indication in the camera's viewfinder or display panel + Automatic flash sync speed control + TTL flash control + Muli-zone flash exposure [preflash metering] for Dimage digital cameras + ADI flash control for Dimage digital cameras ‘! + Automatic fill-in flash in daylight + Manual flash exposure correction " + Istor 2nd curtain synchronisation (REAR] " + Motor-zoom control + AF measuring beam control + Maximum flash range indication + Program flash mode / AUTO FLASH '! + Wake-up function Please note: Without asterisk: Automatic function activation 1 = Seting has to be made on the camera 2 = Setting has to be made on the flash unit

2.1 Mounting the flash unit

2.1.1 Mounting the flash unit on the camera

15 Turn off the camera and the flash unit by their main switch! + Turn the knurled nut against the flash unit housing until the stop point is reached.

• Slide the flash unit foot completely into the cameras’s accessory shoe. + Turn the knurled nut against the camera body as far as possible, hereby clamping the flash unit.

2.1.2 Removing the flash unit from the camera

1 Turn off the camera and the flash unit by their main switch! + Turn the knurled nut against the flash unit housing until the stop point is reached. + Withdraw the flash unit from the camera's accessory shoe.

The flash unit can be operated with any of the following batteries: + 4 NiCad batteries, type IEC KR 15/51 [KR6, size AA). They permit very fost recycling and are economical in use because they are rechargeable. + 4 nickel-metal-hydride batteries, type IEC HR6 [size AA]. They hove a sig- nificantly higher capacity than NiCad batteries and are less harmful to the environment {no cadmium]. + 4 alkaline-manganese dry-cell batteries, type IEC LR6 (size AA/AM3] Maintenance-free power source for moderate power requirements. + 4 lithium batteries, type IEC FR6 L91 [size AA]. Maintenance-free high- capacity power source with a low self-discharge rate. 1& Remove the batteries from the flash unit if it is not going to be used for an extended period of time.

The batteries are exhausted if the recycling time (elapsing from the triggering of a full-power flash, e.g. in the M mode, to the moment the flash ready indi- cator lights up again] exceeds 60 seconds. + Turn off the flash unit by its main switch. « Slide the battery compariment cover in the direction of the arrow and fold open.

• Insert the batteries lenghwise in conformity with the indicated battery sym- bols and close the battery compartment cover. 1& When loading batteries ensure correct polarity, as indicated by the symbole in the battery compartment. Mixed up battery poles may lestroy the flash unit! Replace all batteries at a time and make sure fhat the batteries are of the same brand and type and have the same capacity! Exhausted batteries must not be thrown in the dustbin! Help protect fhe environment and dispose of exhausted batteries at the appro- priate collecting points.

2.3 Switching the flash unit on and off

The flash unit is switched on with the main switch on top of the battery com- partment cover. In the upper ,ON” position, the flash unit is on. To turn off the flash unit push the main switch down to its bottom position. 1& [f your flash unit is not going to be used for an extended period of time, we recommend to switch it off with the main switch and to re- move the power sources (batteries).

2.4 Auto-OFF for the flash unit (Fig. 2)

To save battery power and prevent inadvertent battery discharge, the flash unit is factory-set to automatically switch-over to standby mode (Auto-OFF), while flash readiness and the LC display are simultaneously switched of, approx. 3 minutes after: + Switch-on

• Firing a flash + Actuating the shutter release + Switching off the camera's exposure metering system After automatic switch-off the last-used settings are retained and instanily available when the Aash unit is switched on again. The flash unit is reacti- vatedl merely by depressing the Mode” or ,Zoom” key or by touching the shutter release (wake-up function]. 15 The flash unit should always be turned off by the main switch if it is not going to be used for an extended period! The Auto-OFF function can be deactivated whenever required: Turning off the Auto-OFF function + Turn on the flash unit by its main switch + Continue depressing the key combination ,Select” (= ,Mode” key + , Zoom" key) until he LC display indicates ,3m” [= 3 minutes}. + Continue depressing the ,Zoom” key until OFF flashes on the LC display. The ssting becomes immediately effective. The LC display returns to normal display after approx. 5 sec.

Turning on the Auto-OFF function + Turn on the flash unit by its main switch

• Continue depressing the key combination , Select” [= ,Mode” key + , Zoom" key) until the LC display indicates ,3m” [= 3 minutes). + Continue depressing the ,Zoom” key until ,ON flashes on the LC display. + The setting becomes immediately effective. The LC display returns to its nor- mal state after approx. 5 sec.

3. Programmed Auto Flash Mode [Full Auto Mode]

In Programmed Auto Flash Mode the camera controls the aperture and shut- ter speed, as well as the flash unit, automatically so that optimal results are always assured in most photographic situations, including fill-in Aash.

54 AF-1M 03.08.2004 10:53 Uhr Seite 56 Settings on the camera Set your camera to Program “P” or a Subject Program Mode (such as Land- scape, Portrait, Sports, efc.). Select the autofocus mode “Single-AF {S}" on the camera. Please refer to the camera's operating instructions for the setting procedure. tæ Use a tripod for the ,Night Shots Program” to avoid the danger of camera shake in connection with slow shutter speeds! Settings on the flash unit Set the , TTL” mode on the flash unit (see 4.1). LE Some cameras automatically switch the flash unit to TTL flash mode when in Program “P” or a Subject Program Mode. Having completed the above settings, problem-free flash photography can commence as soon as the flash unit indicates flash readiness [see 5.1) 1& Please observe the hints given for PA and PS program control in sec- fion 6.1.

4. Operating modes of the flash unit

4.1 TTL flash mode [Fig. 3]

> For the digital cameras Dimage 5, 7 and 7i please refer to the hints given in section 4.2 and 4.3. The TIL flash mode is a very simple way to achieve excellent Hlash shot. In this mode exposure readings are taken by a sensor built into the camera, which measures the light reaching the film through the camera lens. The elec- tronic control circuit within the camera transmits a stop signal to the flash unit as soon as the film has been exposed by the correct amount of light, thereby instantly interrupting the flash. The advantage of this flash mode is that all fac- tors influencing correct exposure of the film [flers, change of aperture and focal length with zoom lenses, extensions for close-ups, etc.) are automatically taken into account. You need not worry about the flash, the camera's electro- nic system automatically determines the correct amount of flash light required. For the maximim flash range please observe the distance given in the LC dis-

play of the flash unit (see 5.4]. If Alash exposure was correct, the LC display of the flash unit indicates ,0.k.” for about 3 sec. [see 4.1.3). The TTL flash mode is supported by all camera modes (such as Program “P, Aperture Priority Mode “A”, Shutter Priority Mode “S”, Subject Program Modes, Manual Mode “M, etc.) 1 To test the TTL function a film must be loaded in the camera. When selecting the film please check whether limits regarding maximum film speed or ISO value [e.g. maximum ISO 1000] are “appheable to the given camera when in TTL mode [refer to the camera's operating in- Structions)! Setting procedure for TTL mode 15 Various cameras automatically activate TTL flash operation on the flash unit when in Program “P” or a Subject Program Mode. + Turn on the flash unit by its main switch + Continue depressing the ,Mode” key until , TTL” lashes on the LC display. + The setting becomes immediately effective. The LC display returns to its nor- mal state after approx. 5 sec. Pronounced differences in contrast, e.g. a dark subject in snow, may make it necessary to correct the exposure sekings [see 4.1.2)

4.1.1 Automatic TTL fill-in flash in daylight (Fig. 5 and 6)

Most cameras automatically activate the fill-in flash mode in daylight (see camera's operating instructions) when in Program “P” or a Subject Program Mode. Fillin Alash overcomes troublesome dense shadows and produces a more balanced exposure between subject and background with contre-jour shots. The camera's computer-controlled metering system sets the most suitable combination of shutter speed, working aperture and flash output. 1& Ensure that the contre-jour light source does not shine directly into the lens as this will mislead the camera's TTL metering system! In this instance there is no setting or display on the flash unit for TTL fil-in Alash. Fan

The TTL auto flash mode of most cameras is matched to a 25 % degree of light reflection by the subject [average amount of light reflected by ash-shot subjects). Consequently, a dark background that absorbs a great deal of light, or a bright background that reflects a great deal of light, can result in under or over exposure, respectively. To offset this effect a correction value can be set on some cameras to manual- y match the TTL flash exposure with the photographic situation. The actual extent of correction depends on the contrast prevailing between subject and background! The correction value is set on the camera. Please refer to the cameras operating instructions for details concerning settings! 1& A dark subject in front of a bright background: Positive correction value (approx. 1 to 2 f-stops]. Light subject in front of a dark back- ground: Negative correction value [approx. 1 to 2 f-stops]. Correction value settings can change the maximum flash range indicated on the LC display of the flash unit and match it to the given correction value (depends upon the camera model! Exposure correction by changing the lens diaphragm is not possible because the cameras automatic exposure system will automatically regard the changed diaphragm as the normal working aperture. 1& After the exposure do not forget to reset the TTL flash exposure cor- rection back to the normal value on the camera!

4.1.3 Correct exposure indication in TTL flash mode (Fig. 4)

,0-k." correct exposure confirmation only appears on the LC display of the flash unit ifthe shot was correclly exposed in TTL flash model If ,0.k.” is not displayed after the exposure, then this means that the shot was underexposed. The shot will then have to be repeated with the next smaller f-num- ber (e.g. f/8 instead of f/11] or the flash-to-subject distance or reflecting surface must be reduced {e.g. with bounce Hash}. Please note the maximum Hash range indicated on the LC display of the flash unit (see 5.4.1]. 1& Also see section 5.3 for the display of exposure symbols in the ca- mera viewfinder.

4.2 Multi-zone flash exposure metering (preflash metering)

1& For system-induced reasons only possible with Minolta Dimage 5, Dimage 7 and 7i! Multi-zone flash ex osure metering (preflash me- tering] is a modern variant of TIL flash operation. The cameras do not permit standard TTL flash operation without preflash. When the camera's shutter release is pressed for picture shooting a preflash is fired to measure the subjects reflection. With the aid of its exposure system and the 14-segment honeycomb pattern multi-zone metering, the cameras electronics captures the light reflected by the subject and determines the opti- mal weighting for the 4 segments of flash exposure metering on the basis of the measured light distribution and the information given by the AF system The subsequent main flash and the consequent exposure are performed ac- cording to the results obtained by preflash metering. The flash unit must be set to TTL mode. Multi-zone flash exposure metering is not specifically set or displayed on the flash unit. For the setting procedure of multi-zone flash metering on the camera and other details please refer to the camera manual

4.3 ADI flash control (Advanced Distance Integration]

1 For system-induced reasons, only possible with Dimage 5, 7 and 7i! ADI ash control is a modern variant of TTL flash operation. The ca- meras do not permit standard TTL flash operation without preflash. ADI flash control is a multi-zone flash metering system (preflash metering) expanded by additional guide number control. The flash unit must be set to TTL mode. ADI flash control is not specifically displayed on the flash unit. Please refer to the camera manual for the setting procedure of ADI flash control and other details.

ES Various cameras automatically switch the flash unit to TTL flash mode when in Program “P” or in one of He Subject Program Modes. Manual flash ope- ration is then no longer possible. There is no correct exposure confirmation given on the LC display of the flash unit in the manual flash mode! Set ,Av” aperture priority or the ,M" or ,X" manual modes on the camera Select the aperture and shutter speed [with ,M"] on the camera according to the given photographic situation (see the camera's operating instructions).

4.4.1 Manual flash mode M with full light output

In this mode the flash unit always fires uncontrolled flashes at full light output. Adaptation to the given photographic situation is only by adjusting the aper- ture setting on the camera accordingly. The LC display of the flash unit will indicate the flash-to-subiect distance that has to be maintained for a correct exposure (see also 5.4.2]. Setting procedure for the manual flash mode M + Turn on the flash unit by its main switch + Continue depressing the ,Mode” key until ,M” flashes on the LC display. + The setting becomes immediately effective. The LC display is returned to its normal state after approx. 5 sec.

4.4.2 Manual flash mode MLo with partial light output levels

In this mode the flash unit always fires an uncontrolled flash at a manually set partial light output level [Low]. Adaptation to the prevailing photographic si- tation is by selecting an appropriate partial output level ay seHing a cor- responding aperture on the camera. The LC display panel of the flash unit will indicate the distance required for correct flash exposure (also see 5.4.2). Setting procedure for the manual flash mode MLo: + Turn on the flash unit with the main switch. + Continue depressing the “Mode” key until “M” flashes on the LC display. + Continue depressing the “Select” key combination (= “Mode” key + “Zoom” key] until P appears on the LC display.

+ Alongside P, the set partial light output value flashes. + The partial light output level can be diminished with the “Mode” key, or increased with the “Zoom” key, while the manual partial light output value is flashing. In this manner, you can set partial light output values of P 1/8, P1/4,P 1/2 and P 1/1 (maximum output). + The setting immediately becomes effective. After approx. 5 sec. the LC dis- play returns to its normal state. When the partial light output level has been set, MLo is displayed on the LC panel but the set light output value is not indicated. The indicated distance is adapted to the partial light output level. Depress the “Selec}” key combination (= “Mode” key + “Zoom” key] to dis- play the partial light output value. 1& Changing the flash mode, A to TTL, resets the manual light output level to P 1/1 (maximum light output].

Photos shot with full frontal flash are easily recognized by their harsh, dense shadows. This is often associated with a sharp drop in light from the fore- ground to the background. This phenomenon can be avoided with bounce flash because the diffused light will produce a soft and uniform rendition of both the subject and the background. For this situation the reflector is turned in such a manner that the flash is bounced off a suitable reflective surface (eg. ceiling or wall of the room}. The reflector can be tumed verticall up to 90°. When turning the reflector vertically, it is essential to ensure that it is moved by a sufficiently wide angle so that direct light can no longer fall on the subject. Consequently, always turn the reflector at least to the 60° lock-in position. The distance readings on the LC display will disappear. The flash-to-subject distance via the ceiling or wall is an unknown magnitude.

54 AF-1M 03.08.2004 10:53 Uhr Seite 59 The light bounced off the reflecting surfaces produces a soft and uniform illu- mination of the subject. The reflecting surface must be white or have a neu- tral colour, and it must not be structured {e.g. wooden beams in a ceiling] as these might cause shadows. For colour effects just select the reflective surface in the desired colour. 1& Take into account that the maximum flash range is considerably dimi- nished when bouncing the flash. The following rule of thumb will help you determine the maximum flash range for a room of normal height: Maximum flesh range = —— dise number flash-to-subject distance x 2

4.5.2 Close-ups / Macrophotography

The flash reflector can be swivelled down by an angle of-7° to compensate for parallax error. For his purpose depress he unlocking button of the reflec- tor and swivel down the reflector. For close-ups it is necessary to ensure that certain minimum lighting distances are maintained to avoid overexposure. The minimum lighting distance is approx. 10 % of the maximum flash range indicated on the LC display. Since the maximum flash range is not indicated on the LC display when the reflector is swivelled down, then be guided by the maximum flash range indicated by the Alash unit when the reflector is in its normal position!

In normal synchronisation the flash unit is triggered at the beginning of the shutter time {1st curtain synchronisation]. Normal synchronisation is the standard mode on all cameras, and is suitable for most ash shots. Depending upon the given mode, the camera is changed over to the camera's sync speed, the customary ones being between 1/30th sec. and 1/125th sec. (see the cameras operating instructions]. No settings have to be made on the flash unit, nor is there any display for this mode.

4.6.2 REAR - Second-curtain synchronisation (Fig. 8]

Some cameras offer the facility of second-curtain synchronisation (REAR mode) triggering the Aash unit by the end of the exposure time. Second-cur- tain synchronisation is particularly advantageous when using slow shutter speeds (slower than 1/30 s] or when shooting moving objects that have their own source of light. Second-curtain synchronisation gives a more realistic impression of movement because the light streaks behind the light source instead of building up in Font fit, ass the case when the as is synchron- ised with the 1st shutter curtain! Depending on its operating mode, the ca- mera uses shutter speeds slower than its sync speed. 1& The REAR function is set on the camera [see operating instructions of the camera]. lt is not displayed on the flash unit.

4.6.3 Slow synchronisation / SLOW

Various cameras feature slow flash synchronisation in certain modes. This setting will give added prominence to the background at lower ambient light levels. This is achieved by matching the shutter speed to the ambient light. Accordingly, shutter speeds that are slower than the flash's sync speed are automatically adjusted by the camera. Some cameras automatically activate SLOW synchronisation in connection with certain camera programs (e.g. ,A" aperture priority, night shots program, etc.]. No settings are made on the flash unit nor is there any display for this mode. 15 Use a fripod to avoid camera shake with slow shutter speeds!

5. Flash unit and camera functions

5.1 Flash readiness indication

The Hosh readiness symbol à lights up on the Rash unit when the flash capa- citor is charged, thereby indicating that flashes can be fired for the next shot. Flash readiness is also transmitted to the camera for corresponding display in the viewfinder (see 5.3).

54 AF-1M 03.08.2004 10:53 Uhr Seite 60 If a picture is shot before flash readiness is signalld in the cameras view- finder, then the flash unit will not be triggered so that the exposure may be incorrect if the camera has changed over to flash sync speed in the meantime (see 5.2)

5.2 Automatic flash sync speed control

Depending upon the camera model and camera mode, the shutter speed is changed to flash sync speed when flash readiness is reached {see camerc's operating instructions). Shutter speeds faster than the camera sync speed cannot be adiusted or they are automatically changed to the camera's sync speed. 1 Various cameras have a sync. speed range, e.g. 1/30th sec. to 1/125th sec. (see the camera's operating instructions). The actual sync speed set by the camera depends upon the camera mode, the ambient light and le focal length of the lens used. Shutter seeds slower than the flash sync speed con be set, depending upon the given camera model and the selected Alash synchronisation {see also

There is no automatic flash sync speed control with the digital cameras Dimage 5, 7 and 7i. These cameras permit flash shots to be taken at all shut- ter speeds. Shutter speedks faster than 1/125 sec. should not be used for shooting situations where full light output of the flash unit is required

5.3 Displays in the camera's viewfinder or LCD monitor

5.3.1 Dynax / Maxxum

Symbol in viewfinder: Meaning Flash readiness indication: Flash symbol lights constantly or flashes slowly: The flash unit is ready for fring. A flash is fired when the camera's shutter release is pressed Correct exposure confirmation: Symbol Hashes rapidly after shooting: The picture was correcly exposed. £_ Symbol flashes: S The existing shooting situation requires the use of flash. 15 The symbols indicated in your camera‘s viewfinder may deviate from those given in the above table, since some symbols are only possible on specific cameras. For more details regarding viewfinder informa- tion please refer to the operating instructions of your camera.

5.3.2 Dimage 5, 7, 7i

The below symbols are only displayed in the camera's LCD monitor when the shutter release is lighily touched for activation of the camera's metering system. They are not displayed in playback mode (e.g. right after picture shooting). Please also refer to the hints given in the operating instructions of your camera. # (white) The flash unit is switched on and ready for firing. # (red) The flash unit is switched on but not yet ready for firing. À (blue) _ The shot was correcily exposed. This symbol may only briefly be indicated after shooting.

The cameras transmit the ISO sensitivity, the focal length (mm), f-stop and exposure correction to the flash unit which automatically adapts its settings accordingly. It calculates the maximum Aash range on the basis of its guide number and the transmitted values. Flash mode, maximum Alash range, aper- ture and zoom reflector position are all indicated in the LC display of the flash unit. IFthe flash unit operates without having received data from the camera [e.g when the camera is switched off], then only the selected flash mode, the reflector position and ,M.Zoom” are indicated. Aperture and maximum flash range are only displayed if the camera transmits the corresponding data to the flash unit. L& Some cameras suppress the maximum flash range indication on the LC dis- play of the flash unit in the event of high ISO values {e.g. ISO 6400) or flash exposure corrections.The aperture is not indicated in the LC display of the Rai when the digital cameras Dimage 5 and Dimage7, 7i are used.

5.4.1 Maximum flash range indication in TTL flash mode

The LC display of he Rosh unit indicates the maximum flash range. The indli- cated value relates to a factor of 25 % of light reflection by the subject, which applies to most photographic situations. Pronounced deviations from this re- flection factor, e.g. highly reflective or poorly reflecting objects, can influence the maximum flash range of the Aosh unit. Alays observe the maximum flash range indicated by the LC display ofthe flash unit. The subject should be within approx. 40 % and 70 % of the indi- cated value. This gives the electronic circuit sufficient scope for compensa- tion. To avoid overexposure, the minimum flash-to-subject distance should not be less than 10 % of the indicated value. Adaptation to the given photogra- phic situation is possible by changing the aperture setting on the lens.

5.4.2 Maximum flash range indication in the manual flash modes

M and Mo The LC display of the flash unit indicates the distance to be maintained for correct exposure of the subject. Adaptation to the given photographic situa- tion is achieved by changing the aperture setting on the lens and selecting either ,M” for full light output or ,MLo” for partial light output [see 4.4).

5.4.3 Exceeding the display range

The flash unit can indicate a maximum range of 199 m or 199 ft. This dis- play range can be exceeded in the event of high ISO values (e.g. ISO 6400) and large aperture openings. An arrow or triangle after the distance value indicates Hhat he display range has been exceeded

5.4.4 Blanking out the maximum flash range display

The LC display of the flash unit does not indicate any distances when the reflector head is swivelled up or down out of its normal position!

5.4.5 Meter-Feet changeover [m - ft}

The maximum flash range indicated by the LC display of the flash unit can be either in meter (m} or feet (A). To change between the io, proceed in the fol- lowing manner: + Turn off the flash unit by its main switch.

+ Keep the , Select” key combination depressed [= Mode” key + ,Zoom” key). + Turn on the flash unit by its main switch + Release the , Select” key combination (= Mode” key + , Zoom” key]. + The flash range indication changes from m to ft or from ft to m.

5.5 LC display illumination

Keep the ,Mode” or ,Zoom” key depressed for approx. 10 sec. to activate the LC display iluminationof the flash unit. The LC display illumination is switched off when a flash is triggered. 1& The settings on the flash unit are not changed when the above keys are pressed for the first time!

The reflector of the flash unit provides full light coverage for lenses of 24 mm focal lengih and longer (35 mm format)

IFthe flash unit is operated with a camera that transmits the focal length data to the flash unit, then the zoom reflector position will be automatically adapted to the focal length of the lens. When the flash unit is turned on, the LC display will indicate ,Auto Zoom” and the current reflector position. Automatic reflector adaptation commences with lenses of 24 mm focal length. If a focal length shorter than 24 mm is used, then the ,24” indicated on the LC display will start to flash as an indication that the flash unit cannot fully illuminate the shot right out to the image corners. 15 A wide-angle diffuser (optional extra, see section 7] can be used for lenses as of 20 mm focal length. In cases where the motor zoom re- flector of the flash unit is automatically controlled by the digital ca- meras Dimage 5, 7, or 7i, the focal length position of the reflector can deviate from the focal length set on the lens. This is because the ca- mera positions the reflector so that the flash coverage is larger than necessary in order to guarantee a complete illumination of the picture {comparable to the extended zoom mode described in section 5.6.3).

5.6.2 Manual zoom mode ,M.Zoom“

The position of the zoom reflector can also be manually changed, for in- stance to achieve specific lighting effects (e.g. hot-spot, etc.). Repeated de- pression of the ,Zoom” key on the flash unit will successively select the fol- lowing reflector positions: 24 mm - 28 mm - 35 mm - 50 mm - 70 mm - 85 mm - 105 mm The LC display of the flash unit indicates ,M.Zoom" for manual zoom seting and the current zoom position [mm]. The setting becomes instanily effective. The display is switched back to its normal state after approx. 5 sec.

1& If manual adjustment of the zoom reflector results in a setting in which the shot will not be fully illuminated right out to the image corners, then the reflector position indicated on the display of the flash unit will start to flash as a warning. Example: + You are using a lens focal length of 50 mm. + A reflector position of 70 mm has been manvally adjusted on the flash unit {M.Zoom" is displayed). ,70 mm” for zoom position will start to flash on the LC display of the flash unit because the shot will not be fully illuminated right out to the image cor- ners. Returning to ,Auto-Zoom” There are various ways to return to ,Auto Zoom”: + Continue pressing the ,Zoom" key on the flash unit until ,Auto Zoom” ap- pears on the display. The setting becomes instantly effective. The LC display is switched back to its normal state after approx. 5 sec. Or: + Briefly turn off the flash unit by its main switch. When the flash unit is turned on again the display of the flash unit will indicate ,Auto Zoom”.

5.6.3 Extended zoom mode

The extended zoom mode [Ex] reduces the focal length setting of the flash unit by one step compared with the focal length of the camera‘ lens! The resulting wider light coverage inside rooms provides additional stray light (reflections] to achieve softer flash illumination. Example of extended zoom mode: The focal length set on the camera lens is 35 mm. The extended zoom mode sets a 28 mm reflector position on the flash unit even though 35 mm conti- nues to be indicated on the LC display!

54 AF-1M 03.08.2004 10:53 Uhr Seite 63 The extended zoom mode is only possible in the , Auto Zoom” mode with a focal length setting of 28 mm and longer. Since the start position of the zoom reflector is 24 mm, a focal length of less than 28 mm will cause ,24 mm” to flash on the LC display, thereby warning the user that the required reflector position for extended zoom mode cannot be set 1& Shots with a 24 mm and longer focal length of the lens will be correct- ly illuminated right out to the image corners also in extended zoom mode! Turning on the extended zoom mode + Continue depressing the , Select” key combination (= Mode” key + , Zoom” key) until ,Ex” appears on he LC display. + Continue depressing the ,Zoom” key until ON” lashes on the LC display. + The setting becomes instantly effective. The LC display is switched back to its normal state after approx. 5 sec. After the setting procedure, the ,Ex” symbol for extended zoom mode will continue to be indicated on the LC display of the Alash unit! 1& Please note that the wider illumination coverage in extended zoom mode results in a diminished maximum flash range! Turning off the extended zoom mode + Continue depressing the , Select” key combination (= Mode” key + , Zoom” key) until ,Ex” appears on he LC display. + Continue depressing the ,Zoom” key until OFF flashes on the LC display. + The setting becomes instantly effective. The LC display is switched back to its normal state after approx. 5 sec. After storage in the memory, the ,Ex” symbol for extended zoom mode will no longer be indicated on the LC display of the flash unit.

5.7 AF measuring beam

The AF measuring beam is activatedl by the camera electronics when the am- bient lighting conditions are insufficient for automatic focusing. The AF beam projects a striped pattern on to the subject, and the camera uses this pattern to focus automatically. The AF beam has a range of approx. 6 m to 9 m {with a 50 mm/f/1.7 standard lens). Parallax error between lens and AF red light emitter limits the close-up range of the AF measuring beam to approx. 07m-1m 1& The camera lens must be switched to AF so that the AF measuring beam can be activated by the camera. The AF mode , Single AF“ or 7ONE-SHOT AF* must be set on the camera [see the camera's ope- rating instructions. Zoom lenses with a lower initial aperture can significantly reduce the range of the AF measuring beam! The striped pattern of the AF measuring beam only supports the camera's central AF sensor. We therefore recommend to activate only the central AF metering area on cameras that feature several AF sensors (please refer to the operating instructions of the given camera). If a decentral AF sensor is manually selected by the photographer, or auto- mafically by the camera, then the emitter of the AF measuring beam on the flash unit will not be activated. In such instances some cameras will use their built-in AF illuminator (see camera manual)

5.8 Triggering control

The camera prevents the triggering of a flash if the ambient light level is suffi- cent for an exposure in he normal mode. The exposure is then completed with the shutter speed given in the display or viewlinder of the camera, The triggering control is activated when the flash-ready signal in the camera's viewfinder is extinguished. In this event no flash is fired when the camera's shutter is tripped. On various cameras the triggering control only works in the Program “P” Mode and in the Shutter Priority Mode "S” (see operating instructions for the camera). The triggering control can be deactivated on some camera models: To do so, press and hold down the flash button À on the camera during shoofing [see camera manual), The Alash-ready signal will again be dis- played in the cameras viewinder when the shuter release is lighily touched. The camera selecis a suitable shutter speed/aperture combination and a flash is fired when a picture is shot.

The modelling light is a sequence of stroboscopic Hashes at high frequency that creates the impression of quasi permanent light for the duration of ap- prox. 2 seconds. This modelling light enables the user to assess light distribu- tion and the formation of shadows before taking pictures. Activating the modelling light function + Continue depressing the “Select” key combination {= “Mode” key + “Zoom” Key] until the readliness indicator Rashes rapidly on the flash unit [approx. 4 times per second). Press the “Mode” or “Zoom” key a number of times until "ON" Hashes on the LC display. Pa + The setting becomes immediately effective. The LC display is reset to its nor- mal state after approx. 5 seconds. + Thereafer, the flash units readiness indicator will Alash approx. once a se- cond to confirm that the modelling light function has been activated. The modelling light is triggered by pressing the manual firing button on the flash unit. > Triggering the modelling light of slave flash units in the cordless Metz Remote System is not possible. Deactivating the modelling light function + Continue depressing the “Select” key combination [‘Mode” key + “Zoom” key] until the readiness indicator flashes rapidly on the flash unit (approx. 4 times per second) + Press the “Mode” or “Zoom” key a number of times until “OFF” flashes on the LC display. + The setting becomes immediately effective. The LC display is reset to its nor- mal state after approx. 5 seconds.

+ The readiness indicator on the flash unit then lights permanently to confirm that the modelling light function is not activated. Press the flash units manual firing button to fire a test flash.

5.10 Return to basic setting

The flash unit is returned to its basic setting when the ,Mode” key is kept de- pressed for at least three seconds. The following settings are adjusted: ° The , TTL" flash mode + The ,Auto-OFF” (3m ON) function is activated + The automatic zoom mode ,Auto-Zoom” + The “Ex” extended zoom mode is cancelled + The modelling light function is cancelled.

6. Special remarks concerning the cameras

The multitude of camera models and their peculiarities make it impossible to detail all camera-specific capabilities, settings, displays, etc. For more details concerning the operation of a flash unit please refer to the corresponding chapters in the operating instructions for the given camera!

6.1 Special functions that are not supported in flash mode

6.1.1 Creative P, and P program control

Various cameras feature a creative PA and Ps program control (shiftable aperture/shutter program). + No flash unit can be used in the cameras P4 and Ps modes. + The creafive program control cannot be activated when the flash unit is switched on. 15 Please refer to the operating instructions of the given camera.

54 AF-1M 03.08.2004 10:53 Uhr Seite 65

6.1.2 High-speed synchronisation (HSS]

For system-induced reasons, high-speed synchronisation is not supported by the flash unit.

6.1.3 Cordless REMOTE flash control

For system-induced reasons the cordless REMOTE flash control is not sup- ported by the Aash unit.

6.1.4 Preflash function for red-eye reduction

Various cameras offer the possibility to activate a preflash for red-eye re- duction. This function only supports the flash unit integrated in the camera. It does not support external flash units.

> No guarantee is given for malfunctions and damage to the flash unit caused by the use of accessories from other manufacturers! + Wide-angle diffuser 44-21 Îltem No. 000044217) For ful illumination in conjunction with lenses of 20 mm and up. The range is reduced by the factor 1.4 due to the corresponding loss of light. + Colour filter set 44-32 Îltem No. 00004432) Consists of 4 colour filters to achieve special lighting effects, plus a clear fil- ter to hold colour fois in any colour. + Mecabounce 44-90 Îltem No. 000044900) A diffuser to achieve soft illumination in the simplest possible manner. The effect is very impressive because the pictures are given a very soft atmos- phere. Facial colours are rendered more naturally. However, loss of light halves the maximum Aash range. + Bounce diffuser 54-23 Îltem No. 000054236) The soft directed light diminishes dense shadows.

8. Advice in the event of a fault

Should the LC display indicate meaningless information or should the flash unit not work properly in the individual modes, then switch off the flash unit for about 10 seconds by its main switch. Check the camera settings and find out if the flash units foot is correcily mounted in the camera's accessory shoe. The flash unit must operate properly when it is switched on again. Contact your local dealer should this not be the case.

9. Maintenance and care

Remove any grime and dust with a soft, dry or silicon-treated cloth. Never use detergents that could damage plastic parts. Forming the flash capacitor The flash capacitor incorporated in the flash unit undergoes a physical change when the flash unit is not switched on for prolonged periods of time. For this reason it is necessary to switch on the flash unit for approx. 10 minutes every 3 months (see 2.41]. The batteries must supply sufficient power for flash readi- ness to be indicated within 1 minute after the flash unit was switched on.

Maximal guide number at ISO 100/21°, 105 mm zoom: In the metric system: 54; In the imperial system: 177 Flash durations: Approx. 1/200fh to 1/20,000th sec. [in TTL mode) In M mode approx. 1/200th sec. at full light output At 1/2 light output approx. 1/600th second At 1/4 light output approx. 1/1,500th second At 1/8 light output approx. 1/5,000th second Colour temperature: approx. 5600 K

54 AF-1M 03.08.2004 10:53 Uhr Seite 66 Pan Film speed: ISO 6 to ISO 6400 Synchronisation: Low-voltage ignition Number of flashes: approx. 60 with NiCad batteries [600 mAh} approx. 100 with NiMH batteries (1200 mAh} approx. 180 with high-capacity alkaline manganese batteries approx. 240 with lithium batteries at full light output] Recycling time: approx. 6 s with NiCad batteries approx. 6 s with NiMH batteries approx. 7 s with high-capacity alkaline manganese batteries approx. 7 s with lithium batteries at full light output] Swivelling range and locking positions of flash head: Upwards / downwards: 60°, 75°, 90° / -7° Dimensions approx. in mm: 75 x 125 x 108 (WxHxD} Weight: Flash unit with power sources: approx. 420 g Included: Flash unit, Operating Instructions Errors excepted. Subject to changes!

Disposal of batteries Do not dispose of spent batteries with domestic rubbish. Please return spent batteries to collecting points should they exist in your couniryl Please return only fully discharged batteries. Normal, batteries are fully discharged if: - The device they powered switches itself off and indicates "Spent Batteries". - They no longer function properly after prolonged use. To ensure short-circuit safety please cover the battery poles with adhesive tape.

4.3 Control del flash ADI (Advanced Distance Integration]