Gossen Digipro F User Manual

Instruction Manual

Contents Page

Socket to connect the

Digipro F

Lightmeter for Flash and Ambient Light 15175 1/9-04
Swivel head
synchronising cable
Measuring button M Buttons to adjust the
values
1 Display
1.1 The display and its elements................................. 2
2 The Functioning of the Digipro F....................... 3
2.1 Preparations
2.2 Incident and reflected light measurement 3 The individual functions.
3.1 Setting the film speed
3.2 Measuring functions............................................... 4
3.2.1 Flash readings
3.2.2 Multiple flash
3.2.3 Shutter priority mode
3.2.4 Contrast measurement
3.2.5 Aperture priority mode.......................................... 5
3.2.6 Exposure value EV
3.2.7 CINE scale (frames per second)
3.3 Measurement outside the Measuring range
3.3.1 Display outside the display range
3.4 Setting and measuring correction values ...............6
3.4.1 Setting correction values
3.4.2 Measuring correction values
3.4.3 Cancelling correction values
3.4.4 Important remarks concerning correction values
Display Buttons to select
the required function
Battery compartment and cover
4 Servicing and Repairs........................................ 7
5 Technical data
Declaration of conformity.................................. 8
Brief Instructions............................................... 9
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 1
Your Digipro F is an exposure meter with digital display from GOSSEN. It measures ambient light and flash and it
7 Display identification t for exposure time
covers a wide measuring range with great accuracy. A wealth of knowledge in the area of light metering, based on many decades of experience in the manufacture of exposure meters, is now being made available to the user, in the simplest manner possible, due to microprocessor
technology. As a result of its precise calibration, the Digipro F measures with high accuracy and operation is exceptionally simple and convenient. Features characterising the Digipro F:
Swivel head
Measurement modes: incident and reflected light
Measuring flash (with cord or noncord) with indication of the level of ambient light
Microprocessor controlled
Digital LCD display in tenths of stops
Analog contrast display in half stops
Storage of settings and readings
Programmable exposure correction combinations of a given reading
Recall of all possible shutter speed/aperture combinations of a given reading
Aperture or shutter priority preselection
Extremely convenient to measure flash
Covers the entire CINE scale (frames per second), including the TV standard 25 and 30 f.p.s.
Warning when range is exceeded
Automatic battery check
Auto off
Suitable for analog and digital photgraphy

1 Display

1.1 The display and its elements

1 Functions
Flash measurement
Ambient light measurement with
shutter priority
Ambient light measurement with
aperture priority
Ambient light measurement with
read-out of exposure values (EV)
Entering the correction values
Setting the film speed
2 Digital display of film speed DIN / ISO 3 Display identification f for aperture 4 Display identification EV for
exposure value 5 Analog aperture scale 6 Left-hand digital display
Aperture f
Exposure value EV
Correction values
Multiple flash
Film speed in DIN
8 Warning sign BAT for battery check 9 Display identification „/“ for fractions of a
second
10 Right-hand digital display
Exposure time t
Exposure extension factor
CINE (frames per second); symbol
Film speed in ISO
11 Unit symbol m = minutes 12 Unit symbol s = seconds

1.2 Duration of display

If for approx. 2 minutes none of the buttons of the Digipro F is pressed, the meter will be switched off automatically. The measuring and setting values stored in the memory will be maintained.
The stored values can be recalled by depressing the function or value buttons
New measurement is instantly possible when the metering button is depressed.
The values of the last meter reading are stored until a new meter reading is taken. The Digipro F is fitted with separate memories for continuous light and flash measurement.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 2

2 The Functioning of the Digipro F

2.1 Preparations Battery

The Digipro F operates with a 1,5 V AA-type battery (alkaline-manganese battery). Since the meter’s power consumption is minimal, the battery will last for a long time. When the battery’s capacity becomes exhausted, the BAT symbol appears on the display as a warning that the battery has to be replaced at the earliest possible opportunity. Measurements cease to be possible if the display only indicates BAT. The battery must be immediately replaced. To change the battery open the battery compartment of the Digipro F. Remove the exhausted battery and insert the new one. Ensure correct polarity „+“ and „–“! Push back the bat tery compartment cover. Battery changing deletes all stored values.

Self-Checking routine

The microcomputer performs a self-checking routine as soon as the battery has been inserted. Every possible display segment appears in the display during this routine. The duration of the self-checking routine is approx. 10 seconds, but it can be interrupted by pressing any button. The factory programmed basic settings are automatically displayed as soon as the self-checking routine has been completed.

Basic values

ISO: 100/21 ° f: 5.6 COR: 0/ 1.0 EV: 12 t: 1/125 Flash: f 5.6 1/60
2.2 Incident and reflected light measurement
The features and measuring capabilities provided by the Digipro F are ideally suited for the dedicated amateur and the professional photographer. The swivel head will rotate through 180 degrees. This feature allows the photographer to read the values measured in the display, while the measuring head is directed towards the subject or light source. When you remove the diffuser dome, reflected light and contrast measurements can easily be taken.
Measurement by the incident method is far more accurate and reliable to establish the correct exposure setting than the calculating of a mean value obtained with the reflected light measurement in your camera. In the latter case, the reading depends upon the range of contrasts of the subject. However, there is not always a uniform distribution of bright and dark areas of equal importance within the subject. Incident light measurement is also imperative with inaccessible subjects. For this purpose it is necessary to select a point that has the same lighting level as the subject. And then a meter reading is taken that lies parallel with the projected connecting line between the actual subject and the camera. This very convenient method of light metering at a point with the same lighting level is highly recommended for outdoor shots. The measurement is performed with a complete „180°“ turn in front of the camera so that the reading is taken with the meter pointing towards the camera, i.e. opposite the actual picture shooting direction. Incident light measurement, i.e. with diffuser, also gives a precise reading of the brightness range of the lighting. Both kinds of lighting – flash and ambient light – are measured with great accuracy by the incident light method with diffuser. In addition to this, the Digipro F also offers the reflected light measuring method. In this mode the diffuser dome must be taken off and the meter is pointed from the camera towards the subject. The meter now only measures with angle of 25 degrees the light reflected by the subject. Consequently, the reading always depends upon the inherent brightness of the subject!! This means that inherently brighter subjects are not precisely measured and therefore rendered darker. If readings are to be taken exclusively by the reflected light measuring method, then it is advantageous for the professional to use a grey card (18 % re flection) in this mode. The reflected light method is used to measure the subject contrast which is displayed by the Digipro F on its analog scale (see Section 3.2.4 Contrast measurement, page 4).

3 The individual functions

3.1 Setting the film speed

Select ISO with the function buttons Set the required ISO value with the value buttons (display left: DlN value, right: ISO value) Once the film speed has been set, it is transferred to the memory of the Digipro F and maintained when the meter is set to any operation function. It remains visible on the top right-hand side in the digital display. Any change of the film speed directly influences the stored paired aperture and shutter speed values. The selected film speed is retained in the memory until it is changed in the described manner.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 3
3.2 Measuring functions – Ambient light measurement
Select the required ambient light function with the corresponding function buttons.
Shutter priority in function t: a reading is taken for the corresponding aperture
(see Section 3.2.3 Shutter priority mode – Ambient light measurement, page 4)
Contrast measurement in function t: (see Section 3.2.4 Contrast measurement, page 4)
Aperture priority in function f: a reading is taken for the corresponding shutter speed
(see Section 3.2.5 Aperture priority mode, page 5)
Exposure value measurement in function EV: preselect the shutter speed and the
aperture is given as an analog value (see Section 3.2.6 Exposure value EV, page 5)
CINE (frames per second) in function t:
(see Section 3.2.7 CINE scale (frames per second), page 5)
.

3.2.1 Flash readings

Readings can be taken with or without synchronizing cable. When used in conjunction with a synchronizing cable the flash is triggered by pressing the M button–the flash is automatically triggered and measured.
Select with the function buttons
Adjust the desired synchronizing speed with the value buttons.
Synch range from 1 s to 1/1000 s (including 1/90 s)
Press the measuring button M.
Digipro F is operable for metering for a period of 45 s (meter readiness prevails as long as F remains visible in the display)
Trigger the flash
The measured aperture (total of flash and ambient light) appears in the left digital display, and as a flashing mark on the analog aperture scale. The aperture for the share of ambient light is additionally indicated on the aperture scale (in our example f/8).

3.2.2 Multiple flash

Occasionally the light output from a single flash may not be sufficient to enable you to work at the aperture desired. In that case, simply push the top value button until the desired f/number appears in the display. The digital display of the time t disappears and the number of flashes required is indicated (e.g.: F4 = 4 flashes). The Digipro F will calculate up to a maximum of 10 flash sequences.
3.2.3 Shutter priority mode – Ambient light measurement
Select with the function buttons (the last stored value appears
on the display)
Adjust the desired shutter speed with the value buttons
Measure by pressing the meas. button M
The measured aperture appears in the left-hand digital display (accuracy: 1/10 stops), also as a rounded mark in the analog aperture scale
Select alternative aperture/shutter speed combinations with the value buttons.

3.2.4 Contrast measurement

Select t with the function buttons
Keep the measuring button M pressed
while aiming the meter at various areas of the subject. The analog aperture scale displays the f-stop series between the two extreme values and with the actual measured value flashing. The first measured f-stop is displayed in the left-hand side of the display. It remains displayed as a reference value (e.g. of a grey card)). After the measuring button is released, the entire measured contrast range is displayed on the analog aperture scale, and the last measured value will cease to flash.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 4

3.2.5 Aperture priority mode

Select f with the function buttons
Set the desired aperture with the value but tons. The intermediate
1/10 stop values stored from the last measurement appear when the aperture is preset. These are not valid, because the valid and actual 1/10th stops will only appear after the next meter reading is taken.
Measure by pressing the meas. button M
The measured shutter speed appears in the right-hand digital display
Automatic adaptation of the aperture in 1/10 stops to the measured shutter speed
Select other paired aperture/shutter values with the value buttons.

3.2.6 Exposure value EV

Select EV with the function buttons
Measure by pressing the meas. button M
The measured exposure value appears in the left-hand digital display (accuracy: 1/10 stops) and the aperture as a rounded-off mark on the analog aperture scale
Select with the value buttons other paired aperture/shutter speed values corresponding with this exposure value.
3.2.7 CINE scale (frames per second)
Select t with the function buttons
Select the desired Cine speed (f.p.s.) by increasing the
shutter speed setting beyond 1/8000 sec. After approx. 1 second the meter switches over to CINE speeds. The symbol appears in the display. The CINE speeds can be preset between 8 and 64 frames/second.
Measure by pressing the meas. button
The measured aperture appears in the left hand digital display (accuracy: 1/10th stops) and additionally as a rounded-off mark on the analog aperture scale
The displayed aperture applies to a 180 degrees shutter blade. Enter a COR value
in the function for other shutter blades as an extension factor: V = 180 degrees / 0pen aperture angle.

3.3 Measurements outside the measuring range

The Digipro F will not produce any useful readings outside its measuring range If it is too dark or too bright, an E (= Error) appears in the left-hand digital display and alongside it for too dark, or for too bright.
3.3.1 Display outside the display range
If the symbol or appears in the right or left digital display it indicates that the taken reading is outside the meter’s display range.
When actuate value button t to enter the display range.
When actuate value button u to enter the display range.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 5

3.4 Setting and measuring correction values

(see Section 3.4.4 Important remarks concerning correction values, page 6)

3.4.1 Setting correction values

Select COR with the function buttons (the last valid correction
value appears in the display)
Enter or change the correction value with the value buttons
The extension factor is shown in the right-hand digital display, and the correction value in stops in the left-hand section. Enter in 1/10th stops (small figure) within a range of ±7.9 exposure values. A figure preceded by „–“ indicates an exposure extending correction.
Example: –3.1 stops equal factor 8.6.
In the event of an exposure shortening correc tion, only the left-hand display appears as an exposure value difference in stops.

3.4.2 Measuring correction values

Correction values can also be directly measured. An evenly illuminated surface and constant light level are required. Measure in the reflected mode.
Press measuring button M and get a reference reading:
displayed as rF--
Weaken light by holding e.g. a grey filter in front of the measuring
aparture. Press meassuring button M The light reducing factor will be diplayed automatically in stops at the right, as extension factor at the left. Pressing one of the function buttons will transfer the correction value to the memory of the Digipro F. The COR value is now automatically taken into account in all subsequent measuring functions. The frame around COR is retained as a reminder that a correction value was entered.

3.4.3 Cancelling correction values

Select COR with the function buttons
Press measuring button (display rF --)
Select any other function with one of the function buttons. Correction value is cancelled, and the frame around COR disappears.

3.4.4 Important remarks concerning correction values

The Digipro F is a precision meter calibrated with great accuracy to provide exact ex posure data. Should you still not be satisfied with the results, then you should remember that there are independent variables that can influence the success of your exposures.
For instance:
the „true“ speed of your film can deviate from that on the pack the „true“ shutter speeds and f-stops of your camera can differ slightly form the rated values Deviations can arise when the film is processed. Also there must be added purely subjective factors and matters of personal preference in the assessment of the finished photos. However, you can calibrate your Digipto F to characteristics of your camera, your brand of film, your processing methods, and to your projector.
We recommend the following procedure:
Take the readings of a few normal subjects with the utmost care by the reflected and incident light measuring methods, and take five shots of each subject on colour reversal film. The first picture should be exposed with the exposure settings supplied by the Digipro F. The exposure settings for the remaining shots are then increased and decreased, respectively, by half an f-stop and then a full f-stop. Make a note of the shooting conditions. These must not change while the five shots are being taken. Now select from the processed pictures the one you consider to be optimal and compare its settings with the meter readings. If you find that you prefer exposures taken with settings that differ from those supplied by the meter, then these settings can be programmed, as a correction, into your Digipro F. With your correction, the Digipro F will give precise readings to produce optimal exposure results.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 6

4 Servicing and Repairs

No special maintenance is required, if the Digipro F is handled correctly. Keep the outside surface clean. Use a slightly dampened cloth for cleaning. Do not use cleansers, abrasives or solvents. Should the meter nevertheless not work to your satisfaction,please send the Digopro F to:
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH Thomas-Mann-Str.16-20 D-90471 Nürnberg or to the GOSSEN Agency in your country Phone : +49 911 8602-181 Fax: : +49 911 8602-142 e-mail: info@gossen-photo.de

5 Technical Data

Measuring methods Incident light / Reflected light / Contrast measurement
Flash (cord/noncord) Indication of ambient light share Calculation for multiple flash
Programmable exposure correction Sensor Silicon blue cell photodiode Measuring range LW –2.5 to +18 (with ISO 100/21 °)
Repeatable accuracy ±0.1 EV Exposure times 1/8000 s to 60 min
Aperture stops f/1 to f/90 9/10 Measuring range flash f/1 to f/90 (with ISO 100/21°) Flash synch speeds 1 to 1 /1000 including 1/90 s (meas. time)
CINE values 8 to 64 including 25 and 30 TV) Adjustable and measurable correction values –7.9 to +7.9 Extension factors 1.0 to 240 Film speeds ISO 3.2/6° to 8000/40° Acceptance angle for reflected light 25°
Battery 1 x 1.5 V AA-type, battery condition indication Accessories Case, neck strap, battery and operating instructions Dimensions ca. 65 x 118 x 19 mm
Weight ca. 95 g (without battery) Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): The Digipro F meets the Specifications 89/336/EWG dt. 01.01.1996
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 7
EG - KONFORMITÄTSERKLÄRUNG

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Dokument-Nr./ Document.No.: 106/2004 Hersteller/ Manufacturer: GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH
Anschrift / Address: Thomas-Mann-Str.16-20
90471 Nürnberg Produktbezeichnung/ Product name: Belichtungsmesser / Lightmeter Typ / Type: Digipro F Bestell-Nr / Order No: H256A
Das bezeichnete Produkt stimmt mit den Vorschriften folgender Europäischer Richtlinien überein, nachgewiesen durch die vollständige Einhaltung folgender Normen: The above mentioned product has been manufactured according to the regulations of the following European directives proven through complete compliance with the following standards: Nr. / No. Richtlinie Directive
73/23/EWG 73/23/EEC
EN/Norm/Standard IEC/Deutsche Norm VDE-Klassifikation/Classification EN 61010-1 : 1993 EN 61557-3 : 1997
Nr. / No. Richtlinie Directive 89/336/EWG
89/336/EEC Fachgrundform / Generic Standard: EN 61326 : 2002
Elektrische Betriebsmittel zur Verwendung innerhalb bestimmter Spannungsgrenzen
- Niederspannungsrichtlinie –Anbringung der CE-Kennzeichnung : 2003
IEC 61010-1 : 1992 IEC 61557-3 : 1997
Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit
- EMV - Richtlinie
Electrical equipment for use within certain voltage limits
- Low Voltage Directive ­Attachment of CE mark : 2003
VDE 0411-1 : 1994 VDE 0413-3 : 1997
Electromagnetic compatibility
-EMC directive
Nürnberg, den 24. September 2004 __________________________________ _____________________________________
Ort, Datum / Place, date: Vorsitzender der Geschäftsführung
Diese Erklärung bescheinigt die Übereinstimmung This declaration certifies compliance with the above mit den genannten Richtlinien, beinhaltet jedoch mentioned directives but does not include a keine Zusicherung von Eigenschaften. Die property assurance. The safety notes given in the Sicherheitshinweise der mitgelieferten product documentations which are part of the Produktdoktumentationen sind zu beachten supply, must be observed.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 8
CINE scale (frames per second)
Select t with the function buttons – increasing
Socket to connect Swivel head
Ambient light measurement Setting the film speed
the shutter speed setting beyond 1/8000 and preset the CINE speeds with the value buttons
Measure by pressing the M button
The measured aperture appears in the
left-hand digital display
Multiple flash
When the light output from a single flash is not sufficent for you to work at the aperture desired, the Digipro F is able to automatically calculate the necessary number of flashes: (desired aperture e.g.: F4 = 4 flashes)
Press value button t
Battery
1,5 V Mignon Typ AA (alkali-manganese)
Attention to warning BAT – change battery
the synchronising cable
Measuring button M Buttons to adjust the
values
Digipro F

Brief Instructions

Display
Buttons to select the required function
Select ISO with the function buttons and set the required ISO value with the value buttons
Measuring function Flash readings
Readings can be taken with or without
synchronising cable
Select with the function buttons
Adjust the desired synchronising speed with the value buttons (1 s to 1/1000 s; including 1/90)
Press the measuring button M and trigger the
flash
The measured aperture stop appears in the left
digital display and as a flashing mark on the analog aperture scale. The aperture stop for the level of ambient light is additionally
indicated on the analog aperture scale
Shutter priority mode
Select t with function buttons and set desired
shutter speed with value buttons
Measure by pressing the M button
The measured aperture appears
Contrast measurement
Select t with the function buttons
Keep the M button depressed while aiming the
meter at various areas of the subject
After the measuring button is released, the
entire measured contrast range is displayed on the analog aperture scale
Aperture priority mode
Select f with the function buttons and set the
desired aperture with the value buttons
Measure by pressing the M button
The measured shutter speed appears in the right-hand digital display
Exposure value
Select EV with the function buttons
Measure by pressing the M button
The measured exposure value appears in the
left-hand digital display
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 9
Gossen Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH is also a leading provider for other interesting light measuring instruments:
The Starlite: is a multifunction lightmeter for flash and ambient light with a multitude of functions and
capabilities, but remarkably easy to use. The Starlite - All-in-one – measures incident and reflected light, contrasts in the subject and of the lighting, in the Zone System, in CINE filming applications; also other interesting light values – such as Lux and footcandles. It is provided with a swivel head with optical viewfinder and adjustable measuring angles of 1 or 5 degrees, automatic display illumination at low light levels, splash water proof housing. The Starlite will meet and even exceed all the wishes and expectations the professional photographer, the CINE filmer and the enthusiast may have.
The Spot-Master 2: is a true spotmeter with a measuring angle of 1 degree, for flash and ambient light; high
quality viewfinder, especially suited for Zone System metering; correction values are considered in the measurement; necessary changes in the developing of the film are subsequently also indicated. Automatic averaging of upto 10 individual values measured is provided. Ideal for photgraphers enjoying and meeting the challenges of light and shadow, while viewing the precise measuring spots in the subject, also the values measured and preset in the optical system.
The Colormaster 3F: is a digital 3-colour meter and filter indicator for measuring the photographic colour
temperature of flash and also daylight, artificial light (incandescent and halogen lamps) as well as fluorescent tubes. Read-out in degrees Kelvin. Additional capabilities: Readings of the LB filters (can be selected in Mired or Kodak Wratten Filter types) and also CC Filters, both required for pictures, having true colour rendering, without colour casts. Additional useful functions: measuring and reading the illuminance (Lux) and flash power (Lux/seconds). Due to ist high functionality and simplicity of use, it is well suited for photgraphers working in industry, using colour conversal material, and above all digital photography.
Printed in Germany – Subject to change witout notice GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH
Thomas-Mann-Str.16-20 90471 Nürnberg Phone : +49 911 8602-181 Fax: : +49 911 8602-142 e-mail: info@gossen-photo.de
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmesstechnik GmbH 10
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