AlienBees Flash Unit Operation Manual
for AlienBees B400, B800, and B1600 models
The AlienBees Flash Units were designed and created in the USA by Paul C. Bu.
All AlienBees products are manufactured and sold direct by Paul C. Buff, Inc.
Paul C. Bu, Inc. • 2725 Bransford Avenue • Nashville, Tennessee • 37204
PM-AB-MAN01 v. 01/2016
AlienBees Professional Photographic Flash Units are powerful, compact monolights,
designed for the most demanding professional use, while still feeling equally at
home in the hands of the enthusiastic beginner. Available in models B400, B800,
and B1600, the AlienBees units are self-contained, AC-powered studio ash
units, oering consistent performance and versatility for a wide range of subjects.
Thank you for purchasing an AlienBees Flash Unit! This manual is designed to provide
you with assistance as you learn the features and operation of your ash unit;
please read this manual carefully to ensure safe and proper use. If you have any
questions or need assistance, please call us on our Toll Free Customer Service Line
at 1-800-443-5542. We are available to help you Monday through Friday, from 9:00
am until 5:00 pm, CT. You can also email us at info@paulcbuff.com for assistance.
60-Day Absolute Satisfaction Guarantee: Your AlienBees ash unit carries a 60-Day
Absolute Satisfaction Guarantee, giving you 60 days to try out the unit and make sure
that you love it. If you don’t love it, you can return it within 60 days for a refund, minus
the shipping costs. This is an unlimited, no questions asked guarantee.
2-Year Factory Warranty: Paul C. Bu, Inc. guarantees to the original purchaser an
individual product factory warranty against manufacturer defects in materials and
workmanship, beginning with the date that the product is originally shipped to the
customer.
Terms and Conditions of Warranty: This warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of
a product or component that should become defective under normal use, as outlined
in the product description and product manual.
If, during the applicable warranty period, the product is found to be defective by Paul
C. Bu, Inc., we will repair or replace the defective product with an equivalent model
without charge for labor or parts.
This warranty will not cover deterioration or malfunction resulting from accident, act of
nature, abuse, misuse, neglect, unauthorized product repair, shipping of the product,
opening of or modication or failure to follow instructions supplied with product.
This warranty does not apply to any ashtubes or modeling lamps that may arrive with
a product as these become exhausted based on normal use.
The product must be returned to Paul C. Bu, Inc. for warranty service. For customers
in the United States, warranty service includes return shipment via UPS ground to
the original destination (where the equipment was sent to the original purchaser).
Customers outside of the United States will be responsible for all shipping fees,
duties, taxes and brokerage fees to ship the product to and from our oces.
Paul C. Bu, Inc. IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT,
PUNITIVE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOST PROFITS, OR PRODUCTS LOST,
STOLEN OR DAMAGED DURING SHIPPING, WHETHER ARISING IN CONTRACT,
TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), OR OTHERWISE. ALL LIABILITY OF Paul C. Bu,
Inc. SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT, AT OUR OPTION, OF
ANY DEFECTIVE PRODUCT.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY MADE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
This warranty may not be altered other than in writing.
ABSOLUTE SATISFACTION GUARANTEE and FACTORY WARRANTY
SAFETY WARNINGS
Paul C. Bu Flash Units are designed for professional photographic use. As with
all electronic equipment, users must observe all warnings and safety precautions.
Carefully read all operating instructions and safety instructions before use.
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WARNING! HIGH VOLTAGE! Flash units contain high voltages and internal components that can
store dangerous voltages, even when the units are unplugged.
WARNING! Do not leave a ash unit unattended when it is turned on and / or in use. As with
all electric equipment, close supervision is necessary. Do not allow unattended
children around this equipment as potentially dangerous conditions may result.
Turn the system OFF and unplug the power cord when not in use.
WARNING! Do not operate or store a ash unit in or around water. Do not operate the units
in wet, damp or moist conditions, or in environments where water or other liquid
could be dropped, splashed, sprayed or spilled on the unit. High voltage equipment
can cause electric shock when operated in or near water. Your unit should only be
used in dry, moderate conditions where it is protected from rain, dirt, sand and dust.
WARNING! Do not use any Paul C. Buff equipment without permission in restricted areas.
WARNING! Do not operate the unit on or around ammable materials (newspaper, carpet, wood
sawdust, gasoline, etc.). Keep the unit away from re, ames, and heated surfaces.
WARNING! Do not cover the unit during operation. Air circulation must be permitted. Do
not obstruct ventilation holes by covering the unit while in use or by operating from
inside a carrying bag.
WARNING! Do not insert any foreign objects into any ventilation holes. Do not carry or store
a ash unit with necklaces, hair pins, nails, paper clips, or other small metal objects.
WARNING! Do not use ungrounded power cords, power outlets or power strips. Paul C. Bu
Flash Units may only be connected to 3-wire grounded AC outlets to avoid shock
hazard. Do not connect the unit to an ungrounded outlet or to a two-wire extension
cord or adapter that eliminates the ground prong. Do not use any cords that have
been damaged.
WARNING! Paul C. Buff ash units contain no user-serviceable parts. Never open,
disassemble, or attempt to repair any components. Only qualied technicians
should service the system as incorrect disassembly can create an electric shock
hazard. Fingers and other foreign objects must never be inserted or dropped inside
any of the vents. If the unit has been dropped or damaged, discontinue use and
contact Customer Service. Do not attempt to make any changes or modications
as any modications made, outside of those performed or approved by Paul C.
Bu, Inc., may present hazardous conditions and void the warranty. The only user-
replaceable components are the unit’s ashtube and modeling lamp.
WARNING! Do not connect the ash unit to power lines / outlets of incompatible voltages. The
unit is designed for use at specic voltages, as listed on the unit itself. Do not use
adapters to force a physically-compatible connection with an incompatible voltage
outlet. This may damage the unit.
WARNING! The faceplate can get very hot during use. While in use, the unit’s faceplate,
ashtube, modeling lamp and faceplate accessories (such as reectors, grids and umbrella
poles) can get very hot to the touch, remaining hot even after the unit has been powered
down. Heat is intensied when the unit is used in down-angle positions and/or when
used with accessories that trap heat (such as closed softboxes). Disconnect the
unit from its power source and allow ample time for the equipment to cool down
before touching any component or any accessories.
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SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Always mount the ash unit on a light stand during use. Before attempting to operate
the unit, make sure that it is securely mounted to a light stand. We oer various light
stands in assorted sizes - visit our website to learn more (www.paulcbu.com). The
stand mount is compatible with most standard light stands having top couplers up
to 5/8-inch in size.
2. Remove the shipping cover before use. Remove the cover before turning the unit on.
3. Do not touch the ashtube or modeling lamp with your bare hands. When replacing the
ashtube or modeling lamp, never touch a tube or lamp with your bare ngers.
Always turn the unit o, unplug it from its AC power source, and allow it to cool.
Wait at least ve minutes for the unit to cool and for the accumulated charge in the
cap bank to dissipate. Use a clean cloth or insulating gloves to remove or replace a
tube and/or lamp. Do not allow your nger oils to contact the lamp or tube as this
can cause excess heat buildup and may cause premature ashtube or lamp failure.
4. Only use approved ashtubes and modeling lamps. The unit should only be used with
the original ashtube and modeling lamp or an approved replacement tube or lamp.
Please see our website (www.paulcbu.com) to nd replacements.
5. Use care when traveling with or transporting your ash unit. Always use the shipping
cover provided to protect the ashtube and lamp. Use appropriate packaging to
protect the unit against bumps and jolts that may damage the components.
6. When not in use, Paul C. Buff Flash Units should be stored in moderate climate conditions
between 32ºF and 104ºF (0ºC and 40ºC), protected from water, dirt, sand and dust.
Modern electrolytic capacitors normally have a long shelf life. However, if there is
no charge applied for long periods of time, they are more likely to have increased
leakage current. This means the capacitors may become warmer than normal until
they stabilize, and the charge voltage may sag more quickly during use, causing
the units to recycle more frequently after ring. If you need to store the unit for long
periods of time (one year +), it is a good idea to occasionally turn the units on at their
lowest power setting, and slowly increase the power setting over a period of 60 to
90 seconds while ring the unit using the TEST button after each increase.
7. Paul C. Buff Flash Units are designed for use with Paul C. Buff accessories. While other
manufacturers design ash equipment and accessories that may claim compatibility
with Paul C. Bu equipment, each manufacturer denes their own contacts and
latching mechanisms which may or may not be suitable for safe use with Paul C.
Bu equipment. We cannot guarantee or oer our warranty when our equipment is
used with accessories made by other manufacturers and cannot accept liability for
damages that may be caused as a result.
8. Observe power requirements and use the appropriate power cord. The AlienBees ash
unit requires a suitable AC power source. Each standard 120V unit arrives with a
15-foot power cord that has a standard IEC connector on one end and a grounded,
three-pronged male plug on the other. This power cord connects to the ash unit on
its back control panel and is then plugged into a suitable 120 Vac, 50-60 Hz power
outlet.
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9. When shooting in an environment where a suitable AC power source is not available, we
recommend the exclusive use of our Vagabond Portable Power Systems. The Vagabond
systems are designed specically for Paul C. Bu ash units and power packs,
oering a convenient, lightweight, self-contained portable power source. Visit our
website (www.paulcbu.com) to learn more.
FLASH UNIT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL AlienBees B400 AlienBees B800 AlienBees B1600
Flashpower
160 True Ws
at Full Power
320 True Ws
at Full Power
640 True Ws
at Full Power
Power Variability
(informal term)
6 f-stop ash variability range (from Full to 1/32 power)
adjustable across entire range via rear panel slider
Flash Duration (t.5)
1/6000 sec. (full)
1/3000 sec. (1/32)
1/3300 sec. (full)
1/1650 sec. (1/32)
1/1800 sec. (full)
1/900 sec. (1/32)
Flash Duration (t.1)
1/2000 sec. (full)
1/1000 sec. (1/32)
1/1100 sec. (full)
1/550 sec. (1/32)
1/600 sec. (full)
1/300 sec. (1/32)
Weight
2.5 pounds 2.9 pounds 3.7 pounds
Dimensions
8.5” (length) x 7.875” (height) x 5.75” (width)
Power
120 Vac, 50 - 60 Hz
Current Draw
6 amps average
Sync / Trigger Voltage
less than 6 volts
Recycle to 100%
0.5 seconds 1 second 2 seconds
Modeling Lamp
150 Watt supplied (150 Watt max.)
Standard Reector
7AB/R 7-inch Silver Field Reector (80º beam spread)
Reector / Accessory
Mount
four quick-release faceplate ngers securely hold standard
Paul C. Bu / Balcar accessories and allow rotation
Umbrella Mount
top-mounted umbrella tube and clamp mounts umbrella
shafts up to 3/8-inch in diameter
Light Stand Mount
reversible swivel mount with ratchet handle; mounts on light
stands with top couplers from 1/2” to 5/8”
Camera Sync
1/8” (3.5mm) jack (15-foot 1/8” to PC-connection cord
supplied); or res from optional CST CyberSync Transmitter,
Cyber Commander remote or third-party radio triggers
the sync circuit is regulated-current limited making it
impossible to damage the camera even if the ash unit fails
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WHAT ARRIVES WITH YOUR FLASH UNIT
Each standard 120V AlienBees Flash Unit arrives with the following:
• a 7-inch silver eld reector (part# 7AB/R)
• a protective shipping cover (part# 1060032)
• a user-replaceable 150 Watt modeling lamp (part# 150W)
• a user-replaceable ashtube (part# AWFT14MMUV)
• a 15-foot 1/8” to PC sync cord (part# ABSC)
• a 15-foot grounded power cord (part# UPC15)
• your AlienBees owner’s manual
POWER REQUIREMENTS
As each AlienBees ash unit requires an AC power source, each unit comes with a
15-foot power cord. This cord connects to the ash unit on the back control panel
with a standard IEC connector, and must then be connected to a grounded 120 Vac,
50-60 Hz power outlet. The units are rated at 6 amps average current and may briey
peak at nearly 18 amps input current at the very beginning of the recycle period. The
units will draw less average current if the ashpower is set for lower output and the
modeling lamp is o. Depending on the model lamp rating and power setting, the unit
requires approximately 1 to 2 amperes to illuminate the modeling lamp and maintain
the ash charge.
INITIAL SETUP: GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR ALIENBEES FLASH UNIT
1. Remove your new AlienBees Flash Unit from the cardboard
shipping box. Your bee cannot be operated from the inside
of this box. Hee, hee.
2. Remove the black shipping cover. Your ash unit arrives
with a black polycarbonate shipping cover in place, used
to protect the unit’s ashtube and modeling lamp while in
transit. You must remove this cover prior to operation.
The shipping cover is held in place by four holding ngers
on the front faceplate of the ash unit. To remove the cover,
squeeze the bee’s two black “antennae” located on the top
of the unit. These antennae are actually the lever controls
for holding and releasing the shipping cover and other
faceplate accessories. When the antennae are squeezed
together, the four holding ngers on the unit’s faceplate will
contract, allowing you to pull the cover straight o of the
faceplate. Releasing the antennae will allow the holding
ngers to expand back into the holding position. This
quick-release system is used for attaching and removing
all faceplate accessories such as reectors and softbox /
octabox speedrings.
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3. Securely mount your ash unit to a light stand. The unit’s swivel
mounting bracket allows you to mount your unit on any of
our light stands (or to any standard light stand having a
top coupler measuring 5/8-inch or less in diameter). Once
you have set up your light stand and expanded its footprint
to a stable position, place the ash unit on top of the
stand, allowing the stand’s top coupler to slide inside the
mounting bracket opening. Use the tightening knob on the
mounting bracket to secure the coupler inside the bracket.
4. Adjust the position of the ash unit using the ratchet handle on
the side of the mounting bracket. Loosen the handle to swivel
the ash unit up or down. The handle has a ratchet action:
pulling out on the handle allows you to alter its position in
order to make adjustments without hitting the housing.
5. Attach your chosen accessories. The 7AB/R reector arrives
with each unit; all other accessories are sold separately. To
learn more about each accessory, please visit our website.
Reectors: To attach any of our reectors to the faceplate
of your ash unit, you will use the antennae to expand
and contract the holding ngers in the same manner used
to remove your shipping cover. When the antennae are
squeezed, the holding ngers will contract, allowing you to
place your reector around the ngers. When the antennae
are released, the four ngers will expand to hold the
reector securely in place. For proper tting, ensure that
all four of the ngers are holding the inside of the reector.
Softboxes / Octaboxes: The speedring of your assembled
softbox will t on the faceplate in place of the reector,
attached and removed with the faceplate holding ngers.
With the added weight of larger accessories such as
softboxes / ocataboxes, it is crucial to ensure that all four
ngers on the faceplate are securely holding the speedring.
Umbrellas and the PLM system: Umbrellas can be mounted on
the unit with or without a reector. To use an umbrella with
a reector (with our standard 7AB/R reector or optional
8.5HOR and 7UR reectors), you will need to line up the
hole in the reector with the umbrella hole on the top of
the unit’s housing. The umbrella pole ts through the hole
in the reector, then through the corresponding hole in the
top of the unit’s housing, and is tightened in place with the
black screw (holds poles 3/8” or less).
Our Parabolic Light Modier (PLM) umbrellas are designed
to open easily and quickly, mounting like a conventional
umbrella with the 8mm umbrella shaft. The reinforced shaft
allows mounting with minimal protrusion on the back side
of the unit.
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Grids: To use our honeycomb grids, you will need either
the standard 7-inch reector provided or the UMF LiteMod
Mainframe. With either the standard reector or Mainframe
reector attached, you can snap any single honeycomb
grid directly into the recessed outer lip of the reector. We
additionally oer grids tting various optional reectors,
please see our website to learn more.
** Be sure to visit our website to see our full
range of light modifying accessories!
www.paulcbuff.com
6. Connect the power cord. Each standard 120V unit arrives
with a 15-foot power cord. This cord connects to the ash
unit on the back control panel, then plugs in to a standard
120 Vac, 50 - 60 Hz power outlet. With the power cord
connected, turn your unit on. The green OK light indicates
that your unit is powered and ready to re.
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Power ON / OFF Switch: The POWER switch turns the entire unit on or o, and also
serves as a circuit breaker.
Flashpower Control Slider: This slider continuously adjusts the ashpower from full power
down to 1/32 power, marked in fractional power settings.
Model Lamp ON: Pressing this button in turns the modeling lamp on.
Model Lamp TRACK: When the TRACK button is depressed, the modeling lamp will track
the ashpower settings, brightening or dimming proportionally as the ashpower is
adjusted up or down. When the TRACK button is released, the modeling lamp will
remain at full brightness regardless of ashpower changes. For more information on
MODELING and TRACKING, see page 11.
Model Lamp CYCLE: When depressed, the modeling lamp visually indicates the ash
unit’s recycle status by going dark when the unit is ashed and coming back on when
the unit is recycled. This recycle indication feature may be used whenever the lamp
is on, whether the lamp is set on full brightness, or when it is set to track the power
changes. Releasing the CYCLE button turns o the recycle status indication feature,
allowing the modeling lamp to remain on during recycle (if turned on).
Flash OK: The green OK LED will light to indicate that the unit is 100% recycled.
Flash DUMP: The red DUMP LED will light to indicate that the unit is charged to a higher
ashpower than what is selected. This occurs when you change the ashpower from
a higher value to a lower value. To avoid underexposing or overexposing the next
frame, wait for this light to go out, and the green OK LED to shine green. Whenever
the DUMP light is on, the unit’s automatic circuitry is draining the excess charge to
set the proper charge. The process may take several seconds up to a full minute,
depending on the change made. Pressing TEST will re the unit to immediately dump
excess power.
Flash TEST: The TEST button res the ash unit for testing and metering. Test ashing
with the TEST button will also serve to dump excess power.
REMOTE Jack: The remote jack is provided for use with our CyberSync system
receivers and the LG4X wired remote control (as well as our retired models of wired
remote controls). Plugging a wired remote phone cord into this jack causes the unit’s
ashpower and modeling lamp to be externally controlled. When a cord is plugged
in, the rear panel controls are ignored. All ashpower, modeling, and ring signals
will be received from the remote control. Remote Controls and CyberSync system
components are each sold separately. For more information, please visit our website.
SYNC Jack: The supplied 15-foot sync cord has a 1/8-inch miniplug on one end, and a
standard PC-connection on the other. The miniplug will plug into the sync jack on the
back panel of the unit, and the other end of the cord will connect to your camera with
its PC connection. For more information on SYNCHRONIZED FIRING, see page 10.
MODEL LAMP ON button: turns modeling lamp on
MODEL LAMP TRACK button: turns tracking on
MODEL LAMP CYCLE button: turns recycle indication on
green FLASH OK LED: ash is recycled and ready
red FLASH DUMP LED: unit is recycling; excess power is dumping
red FLASH TEST button: test ashes the unit
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ADJUSTING FLASHPOWER OUTPUT
Each AlienBees unit has a stepless 6 f-stop power variability range from full power
(100%) down to 1/32 of the total power, adjustable in whole f-stop increments and
everywhere in between. This ashpower is adjusted on the back control panel with a
slide fader that shows marked fractional increments in whole f-stops.
SYNCHRONIZED FIRING: the SYNC CORD and BUILT-IN SLAVE EYE
Hardwired Sync: Each unit arrives with a 15-foot sync cord for hardwired, synchronized
ring. The cord’s 1/8-inch miniplug connects to the ash unit on the back control
panel, then connects to your camera via PC-sync connection. With the sync cord
connected and the ash unit powered on, pressing your camera’s shutter will simultaneously re the ash unit.
NOTE:
If your camera does not have an input for this PC-connection, we oer a hot
shoe adapter (sold separately; please see our website at www.paulcbu.com/hotshoeadapters.php to learn more).
Built-In Slave Cell: Each unit has a built-in slave tripper for wireless ring when used as
part of a multi-light setup. With a multi-light setup, you will only need to connect one
ash unit in the setup to your camera using the sync cord. With one unit connected,
the other units will re at the same time via their slave trippers. The tripper on each
unit is activated by the slave cell, located on the back control panel, ring the unit
whenever it “sees” the light from another ash as far as 50+ feet away. This slave
cell is disengaged whenever a sync cord or “dummy plug” (used with some remote
controls) is inserted in the sync jack.
NOTE:
The slave cell is designed to sense ashes of light (both visible and infrared);
any ash that it “sees” can trigger it, including the ash from another unit in your
setup, a conventional on-camera, built-in, or pop-up ash (and its pre-ash), and/or
an infrared remote transmitter. Although this gives you more options for triggering,
the presence of extraneous triggers must be considered when you are not the only
photographer in the area. Other ashes (whether on professional or even disposable
cameras), and infrared remotes can inadvertently trigger your ash unit(s).
We additionally oer various remote control options that provide synchronization
between your camera and your ash unit(s), allowing your ash unit(s) to be remotely
triggered. We additionally oer remote control options that provide complete control
over all parameters of the light. To learn more about the remote control options that
we oer for use with the AlienBees units (systems and components sold separately
from ash units), please visit our website.
• to learn about our CyberSync system, visit: www.paulcbu.com/cybersync.php
• to learn about our LG4X system, visit: www.paulcbu.com/lg4x.php
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RECYCLE and AUTOMATIC POWER DUMP
When the ash unit res (releasing the stored energy from the ash capacitors), the unit
will begin recycling to recharge the capacitors. The green OK LED will light to indicate
that the recycle is complete, and the unit is again ready to re at the same settings.
The AlienBees units oer fast recycle times, recycling quickly for time-constrained
work. The recycle time is at its longest when the unit is set to full power, shortening as
the ashpower is lowered.
The red DUMP LED will light whenever the unit is adjusted from a higher to a lower
power setting. As there is more power stored in the capacitors from the previous
higher setting, this power must be “dumped” so that the capacitors hold the correct
amount of energy for the new, lower power setting. The unit will automatically dump
this excess charge and the green OK LED will shine to indicate that this excess charge
has been dumped. If you do not wish to wait for the unit to automatically dump this
charge, you can push the red TEST button to immediately dump the charge.
MODELING and TRACKING: WHAT-YOU-SEE-IS-WHAT-YOU-GET
With precision voltage-regulated circuits supplying consistent output, the AlienBees
oer true “what-you-see-is-what-you-get” modeling lamp accuracy. Each unit comes
with a 150 watt modeling lamp, used to indicate the pattern of light to be produced
by the ash. The modeling lamp can be set to full brightness, turned completely o,
or set to track the power changes by pushing in the TRACK button. When set to
tracking mode, the modeling lamp will brighten and dim as you adjust the ashpower,
matching the output from full down to 1/32nd of the brightness. This allows you a true
preview and is especially benecial in multi-light setups. When using multiple ash
units, if you set the modeling lamp in each unit to track the changes made in power,
you will have an accurate preview of the brightness and specularity of each light in
exact ratios, regardless of the individual settings for each light.
For multi-light setups, we recommend using multiple lights in the same model (for
example, three B800 units) to maintain the accuracy of this preview. When using
multiple lights of varying power models, you may want to replace the modeling lamps
in some of the units in order to get an accurate preview with matched ratios. For
example, if you have a three-light setup with one B1600 unit, one B800 unit and
one B400 unit, you may want to replace the modeling lamp in the B800 unit with a
100-Watt bulb and replace the modeling lamp in the B400 unit with a 75-Watt bulb
(keeping the supplied 150-Watt bulb in the B1600 unit). With these replacements, the
modeling preview will not only reect the power settings, it will additionally maintain
the accurate ratios of power in your setup.
NOTE:
If you are using the Cyber Commander as part of the CyberSync system, you
can use its proportional modeling feature in lieu of physical lamp replacements.
The modeling lamp in each unit may also be used as a recycle indicator, turning itself
o when the unit is recycling, and coming back on to let you know when the unit is
fully recycled and you are ready to shoot again. To utilize this feature, simply push in
the CYCLE button.
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FLASH CAPACITORS and FLASH DURATION
Flash Capacitors: Using precision voltage regulation and well-designed internal
thermodynamics, the AlienBees units produce consistent and correct output levels
based on the settings that you assign. The regulator circuit inside the ash unit
controls the electrical energy from the AC power source by continuously monitoring
the back panel control settings, the status of the back panel switches, and the remote
control input (if you are using a wired or wireless remote) to determine the correct
amount of energy to be applied to the high voltage converter circuit. The high voltage
is then used to charge the ash capacitor(s) to the appropriate level, thus storing a
precise amount of electrical energy proportional to the prescribed settings. The ash
capacitors hold this energy, then release the energy as a short, controlled burst of light
(a “ash”) when the signal to re is received. The advanced durability ash capacitors
in AlienBees ash units are designed to provide consistent output levels, shorter ash
duration, decreased heat build-up, and higher capability.
Flash Duration: The ash duration is a measurement of the time that it takes for the
capacitor(s) to release their charge. As discharging the capacitor’s stored energy
produces a ash, the amount of time that the ash is present will vary based on the
amount of energy to be discharged. A higher power model ash unit, with more capacitors storing more energy, will have a longer ash duration as there is more energy
to discharge. For example, the B400 unit at full power has a shorter ash duration than
the B800 unit at full power. However, when you lower the ashpower of that B800,
the ash duration does not get shorter. When the ashpower is lowered, the amount
of voltage applied to the capacitor(s) is lowered. So, even though the same ashpower output can be achieved by a B400 and a lowered B800, the B400 has only one
capacitor to discharge, whereas the B800 has two to discharge, taking slightly more
time. When you reduce the ashpower on a unit, the ash duration actually increases.
The duration gets approximately twice as long at the minimum power setting.
METERING and SHOOTING
The ashpower output settings that you choose will vary based on your subject, your
environment, and your desired eects. The positioning will vary as well, depending
on the coverage, distance, and intensity required. The modeling lamps will help you
determine positioning, showing you exactly where your light will hit, matching the
specularity of the source with any modifying accessories. Once you have positioned
your unit(s) and adjusted the ashpower settings, you are ready to take a meter
reading, adjust any settings on the camera or ash unit(s), and begin shooting.
When using ash units and various light modifying techniques, the best way to
ensure a proper exposure is to use a high quality, dedicated ash meter. There are
several options for excellent meters from various manufacturers, including our Cyber
Commander which oers a metering function. Once you have entered the desired
lm speed (ISO) and shutter speed into the meter, you are ready to take a reading.
The meter’s “test” or “re” button will re the unit(s) in your setup, and indicate the
appropriate settings so that you may set your camera accordingly. A reading from
the camera position or from the subject position may be used to determine an overall
average scene reading. Depending on the subject, you may additionally want to take
spot meter readings.
12
With the results of your meter readings, you can set your camera’s controls appropriately
for the amount of light present, considering the aperture and shutter speed needed
for the specic eect desired. Depending on your needs, you can take a reading, then
adjust the output of your ash units accordingly until the reading indicates settings
that t within your desired range. Once you have taken your reading, made necessary
adjustments, and set your camera’s controls, you are now ready to shoot.
NOTE:
When metering for a correct exposure, you cannot rely on your in-camera
meter as it cannot detect the light that will be produced by the ash unit(s) when
red.
Bracketing: When shooting, bracketing is the practice of taking several photographs of
the same scene and setup with dierent exposure settings both above and below the
target setting indicated by the ash meter. As dierent brands of meters vary in their
readings for a “correct” exposure, bracketing both above and below the indicated
settings will ensure that you get a properly exposed picture.
AUTOMATIC VS. MANUAL CAMERA MODES
The automatic mode is a setting on your camera that allows the camera to use its
internal meter to automatically adjust the aperture and shutter speed for a shot based
on the prescribed ISO setting, and the available light. When using studio ash units,
you cannot leave your camera in automatic mode, as its internal meter will not be able to
detect the light that will be emitted by your ash units and will thus be set to an inaccurate shutter speed and aperture opening, causing your picture to be overexposed.
Manual exposure is a camera mode which is non-automatic and requires the pho-
tographer to set their own aperture and shutter speed for each shot. This mode does
not rely on the camera’s internal metering system, but rather requires you to take a
reading with a separate ash meter to determine correct settings. When using external
ash units, your camera should be adjusted manually.
THE ALIENBEES HOUSING and PHYSICAL DESIGN FEATURES
Housing: The unit is housed in high-impact polycarbonate (the same material used for
bullet-proof glass), making the unit both indestructible and lightweight.
Faceplate: On the front of the unit is a silver, quick-release faceplate with four small
holding ngers. These ngers expand and contract to hold accessories, including the
black protective shipping cover and the standard 7-inch eld reector, as well as our
other light modiers, reectors, and softbox speedrings.
Mounting Bracket: As the ash unit must be securely attached to a light stand, each unit
has a swivel bracket light stand mount attached to the housing. Compatible with all of
our light stands (and almost any stand with a connection up to 5/8-inch), the bracket
tightens to securely hold a light stand’s top coupler. The black ratchet arm is then
used to adjust the angle and directional position of the ash unit.
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HEAT and INTERNAL FAN COOLING
AlienBees ash units, like any electronic device, produce heat during normal operation.
The unit incorporates axial-ow thermodynamics to reduce heat build-up and holds
a built-in cooling fan that allows extended, all day shooting sessions and prevents
overheating.
While heat is expected when using any electronic device, please note that while in
use, the unit’s faceplate, ashtube, modeling lamp and faceplate accessories (such as reectors, grids and umbrella poles) can get very hot to the touch, remaining hot even after the
unit has been powered down. Heat is intensied when the unit is used in downangle positions and/or when used with accessories that trap heat. Before touching
any component or any accessories, rst turn the unit o, disconnect the unit from its
power source and allow ample time for the equipment to cool down.
FLASHTUBES and COLOR BALANCE
The unit’s ash capacitor terminals are connected to electrodes inside the ashtube,
which is a hollow, circular glass envelope containing xenon gas. When the signal to
re is received, a high voltage pulse is created by the control circuitry, and is applied
to a “trigger electrode” attached to the ashtube. This high voltage pulse causes
the xenon gas inside to ionize.The ionization process makes the xenon gas highly
conductive, and the energy stored in the ash capacitor(s) is discharged through the
xenon gas. The energy owing through the ionized xenon gas is dissipated as heat,
and as a brilliant pulse of light. The initial burst of brilliant light fades as the energy
stored in the ash capacitor(s) is depleted, until nally the pulse of light is extinguished.
This entire process occurs very quickly, typically measured in milliseconds.
The spectral content, or color balance, of light emitted is stated in terms of “color
temperature” and is measured in degrees on the Kelvin scale. This scale relates to
energy emitted by an object, starting at absolute zero, or -273º Celsius. Direct sunlight
is usually stated as having a color temperature of about 5500-5700º K.
The ashtubes used in AlienBees units are daylight-balanced at 5600º K, providing
accurate color rendition. Each AlienBees unit comes with a standard 5600º K 14mm
ashtube (AWFT14MMUV). As the ashpower output is lowered, the color temperature
decreases slightly.
The life expectancy of a ashtube is stated as the number of ashes it will produce
before needing replacement due to decreased output. The ashtubes used in
AlienBees units have a life expectancy of well over 100,000 ashes, and depending
on use, they will typically provide over 250,000 ashes.
PORTABLE POWER
For portable, battery power, we recommend the use of our Vagabond Portable Power
Systems (sold separately). For reliable, portable, current-limited, true sine wave power,
we oer the Vagabond Lithium Extreme (VLX) system and the Vagabond Mini Lithium
system (visit our website at www.paulcbu.com/vagabond.php to learn more about
each system).
AWFT14MMUV Flashtube
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REMOTE CONTROLS
The CyberSync System: For remotely controlled ring and adjustments, the AlienBees
units may be used with our CyberSync system (compatible with both the CST
transmitter and the Cyber Commander). As the AlienBees are generation one Paul
C. Bu lights, they may be used with either the CSR, CSRB, CSR+ and/or CSRB+
receivers, but not the CSXCV transceiver.
The LG4X Wired Remote Control: The units may additionally be used with the LG4X wired
remote control as well as older Paul C. Bu remotes incorporating the telephone cord
connection (such as the retired RR1 RadioRemote One).
Remote Controls from Other Manufacturers: The AlienBees units are compatible with most
other third party triggering receivers (such as the PocketWizard®). A 1/8-inch to
1/8-inch non-attenuated mini male mono cord such as our CSSC may be required to
connect the receiver to the AlienBees unit.
All Paul C. Bu remote controls, receivers, and accessory cords are sold separately. To
learn more about our remote controls, please visit our website.
REPLACING COMPONENTS
It is normal for the ash unit’s ashtube and modeling lamp to become exhausted over
time, based on use. We oer inexpensive replacements for these items, available for
ordering on our website and by phone.
Flashtube: For future replacement needs, the ashtube used in each AlienBees unit is
the 14mm single-ring ashtube (part # AWFT14MMUV). This is a user-replaceable tube
arriving with instructions for replacement. Please see www.paulcbu.com/ashtubes.
php for more information and ordering. Only the approved ashtube available from
Paul C. Bu, Inc. may be used in the unit. Do not substitute with other tubes.
Modeling Lamp: For future replacement needs, the modeling lamp used in each standard
120V AlienBees unit is the 150 Watt bulb (part # 150W). This is a user-replaceable bulb
that screws into the unit in place of the exhausted bulb. Please see www.paulcbu.
com/modelinglamps.php for more information and ordering. Replacement modeling
lamps can be purchased from Paul C. Bu, Inc. or compatible bulbs in various
wattages can be found locally. When choosing a replacement bulb, the bulb must not
exceed 150 Watts and must have a standard, medium Edison-type base.
150W Modeling Lamp
AWFT14MMUV Flashtube
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EXPECTED OUTPUT
MODEL / ACCESSORY AlienBees B400 AlienBees B800 AlienBees B1600
the 7AB/R Standard
7-inch Reector
f5.6 +9/10
at Full Power
f8 +9/10
at Full Power
f11 +9/10
at Full Power
the 8.5HOR Optional
8.5-inch Reector
f11 +1/10
at Full Power
f16 +9/10
at Full Power
f22 +1/10
at Full Power
the 11LTR Optional
11-inch Reector
f16 +6/10
at Full Power
f22 +6/10
at Full Power
f32 +6/10
at Full Power
our rectangular
foldable Softboxes
f4 +7/10
at Full Power
f5.6 +7/10
at Full Power
f8 +7/10
at Full Power
These output readings have been measured with a Sekonic L358 ashmeter set to 1/125 second
shutter speed at ISO 100, placed 10 feet from the ashtube for direct reector specs. Readings
were taken in a 14-foot x 14-foot room (with an average ceiling height of 14 feet) with both the
walls and oor painted grey. Please note that readings may vary when taken in other environments
and with other meters, as dierent brands of ashmeters can vary in their interpretation of correct
values. For our softbox readings, the readings between all three sizes of our rectangular softboxes
were the same, within +/- 1/10 of an f-stop. The 8.5HOR, 11LTR, and softboxes are optional
accessories, each sold separately. Please visit our website for more information. For additional
expected output readings, visit our website at www.paulcbu.com/output.php.
The chart below shows expected output values for the three AlienBees ash unit
models. All output readings were taken at a distance of ten feet and represent the
expected output at Full Power (100%) for each unit with the various accessories listed.
CONTACT US FOR ASSISTANCE!
We hope you love your new AlienBees Flash Unit! If you have any questions or need
assistance of any kind, please contact our friendly customer service team:
Toll Free Customer Service Line: 1-800-443-5542
Local (Nashville, TN, USA) Customer Service Line: 1-615-383-3982
Customer Service Email: info@paulcbuff.com
Our customer service team works to answer all emails promptly and is available to
help you by phone Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm, CT.
Visit us online at www.paulcbuff.com
Find us on your favorite social media platform!
Facebook: /paulcbufnc
Twitter: @paulcbufnc
Instagram: @paulcbufnc
YouTube: /paulcbufnc
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