Nikon SB-102 User Manual
Mikon
Speedlight
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
NOMENCLATURE
0 Synchro socket index
) Sensor socket index
> Target-iight lamp
) Slave sensor
I Firing tube
Wide-Fiash Adapter
) SW-102
) Sensor socket
I Synchro socket
(D Synchro socket cover
® Sensor socket cover
(D) Spare target-light lamp
(!|) Speedllght plug and locking ring
) Sync cord
1 Camera piug and locking ring
) Sensor hoider socket
) Sensor hoider positioning pin
I Bracket slot
I Bracket screw
Joint coilar
Flash head positioning index
Joint plate
"0.3m" position mark
"0.6m” position mark
"Normai” position mark
Arm positioning index
Joint iever
Arm positioning screw ®
Joint @
I
_________________________
M
0-rings and iubricant
fJW Arm ®
Grip
o
I Tripod socket
I Cord fastening hanger
) Bracket
) Buckie iock/reiease iatch
) Exposure caicuiation diai screw
) Exposure caicuiation dial
Exposure calculation dial
@ Distance scaie
) Aperture scale
) Distance iines
) Non-TTL auto shooting aperture scale
) Non-TTL auto shooting aperture index
) Shooting situation marks
) ASA/ISO film speed scale
Arm knob
Battery chamber cap index
Target-light holder
Battery chamber cap
C-type battery cartridge
Buckle
Shooting mode selector
T-S switch
Ready-light
Power switch
CONTENTS
NOMENCLATURE
FOREWORD...................................................................... 4
PREPARATION........................................................... 4—6
Examining and iubricating the O-rings
The O-rings and their sealing method
TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT CARE
BASIC OPERATIONS
CONTROLS IN DETAIL..............................................17-30
Bracket
.....................................................................
Arm............................................................................ 17
Joint
..........................................................................
Close-Up Shooting in the Non-TTL
Automatic Mode
Synchro Socket
Sensor Socket.......................................................... 19
Sensor Unit SU-101 (Optional]
Synchronization Speed
Shooting Mode Selector
Exposure Calculation Dial
TTL Automatic Flash Control
Non-TTL Automatic Flash Control
Manual Flash Control........................................25—26
Exposure Compensation..................................26—27
Ready-Light........................................................27—28
Test Firing................................................................. 28
Cord Fastening Flanger........................................... 29
Wide-Flash Adapter SW-102
Target-Light........................................................29—30
Multiple Flash Photography
Daylight Fill-In Flash Photography......................... 30
TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
OPTIMUM BATTERY PERFORMANCE
ACCESSORIES
Sensor Unit SU-IOI
Sensor Fielder (for SB-102]
Extension Arm.......................................................... 33
Double Flash Bracket............................................... 33
Double Sync Cord
Protectors.................................................................. 34
Speedlight Case SS-101 (Provided]........................ 34
O-rings and Lubricant.............................................. 34
SPECIFICATIONS............................................................ 35
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22—23
33-34
8-16
17
18
18
19
20
20
21
22
24
29
30
31
32
33
33
34
2
5
6
7
Speedlight Case SS-101
FOREWORD
The Nikonos Speedlight SB-102, an amphibious high
performance electronic flash unit with a silicon-con
trolled rectifier and series circuitry, is designed for use
with the Nikonos-V, Nikonos IV-A, and Nikonos III. The
SB-102 can be submerged to a depth of 50 meters
(160 feet) and withstand pressure of up to 6kg/cm^
(85 Ib/in^), enabling it to be used in environments where
regular speedlights could not be taken.
In combination with the Nikonos-V, the SB-102 features
automatic through-the-lens (TTL) flash exposure con
trol. This means the silicon photodiode (SPD) in the
Nikonos-V’s shutter box reads the light passing through
the lens and then automatically signals the speedlight
to turn itself off when the exposure is correct. Because
TTL flash offers a wide range of useable apertures and
shooting distances, depth of field is easy to control and
shooting as close as 0.3 m (1 ft) is possible.
With the optional Sensor Unit SU-101, the SB-102 can
be used for non-TTL automatic flash photography in
combination with the Nikonos-V, Nikonos IV-A, and
Nikonos III. In this mode, flash output is automatically
controlled by the SU-101.
This speedlight has the same area of coverage as a
28mm lens. When the Wide-Flash Adapter SW-102
(provided) is used, the area of coverage increases to
that of a 15mm lens.
The SB-102 also features manual control with three
power settings (“FULL," “M1/4,” and “M1/16”), slave
firing capability for wireless multiple flash photography,
and a target-light for close-up shooting. The target-light,
positioned in the center of the flash head, shoofs a
beam of light at the subject to help you aim the flash
head at the subject. In addition to the equipment men
tioned, a variety of optional accessories is available to
increase the versatility of the SB-102.
Even though this speedlight is extremely easy to oper
ate, you should still familiarize yourself wifh the pre
paratory steps and basic operations explained in the
first two sections of this manual. For more detailed
information, refer to “CONTROLS IN DETAIL” and
“TIPS ON FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY A few minutes
wisely invested now will pay off later in years of reward
ing photographic experiences.
PREPARATION
STOP! READ THIS NOTICE BEFORE USING YOUR SB-102. THE 0-RING SEALS
MUST BE EXAMINED AND LUBRICATED BEFORE USE TO AVOID DAMAGING
THE SPEEDLIGHT.
This Nikonos Speedlight SB-102 uses 0-rings to seal
and waterproof the junctions between parts. Your
Nikonos Speedlight SB-102 should not be considered
waterproof until you have examined the user-service
able 0-rings (one each for the battery chamber cap®,
the sync cord's ® camera and speedlight plugs, and
the synchro socket and sensor socket covers (|) @).
They must be in perfect, undamaged condition and
properly lubricated prior to each use. Read the follow
ing instructions thoroughly to familiarize yourself wifh
the maintenance of fhe 0-rings.
Because fhe outer surface of your Nikonos Speedlight
SB-102 has been specially treated to make it water
proof, it must be protected from impacf. If it becomes
damaged, send it to a qualified technician for service
before the next use.
Your Nikonos Speedlight SB-102 is watertight only when
In perfectly serviced condition, when all 0-ring seals
are in perfect condition, and when all components are
properly assembled and closed.
Pay special attention to the instructions for installing
the O-rings because they are what make the Nikonos
Speedlight SB-102 watertight. For the O-rings to per
form properly, fhey must be in perfect condition (with
no cuts, tears, or other imperfections) and properly
lubricated. If fhey are nof, they will not perform properly
and may allow water to enter your flash unif. To prevent
the accidental use of a defective 0-ring, always discard
old rings.
The channels into which the O-rings fit must be free of
anyforeign matter and in their original, smoothly finished
condition. If they are not, the O-rings will not seat pro
perly and may allow water to enter your flash unit. If any
channel in your Nikonos Speedlight SB-102 becomes
damaged, send the unit to a qualified technician for
service before the next use.
Your Nikonos Speedlight SB-102 contains a series of
O-rings. Some are factory-installed and cannot be
serviced by you. Once each year, send your fiash unit
to a qualified technician so that these O-rings can be
serviced. Do not attempt to disassemble the unit and
service these O-rings yourself.
All of the O-rings in your Nikonos Speedlight SB-102
that can be serviced by you must be examined at the
end of each dive day and, if possible, after each dive.
PREPARATION —continued
Examining and lubricating the 0-rings:
1. To remove the 0-rings, except those in the synchro
socket and sensor socket covers, grasp the ring be
tween your thumb and forefinger. Pinch your fingers
together as you slide them in the direction of the
arrow to create slack in the 0-ring. Then grasp the
slack portion with your other hand and pull the ring
off (see Fig. 1).
To remove the 0-rings in the synchro socket and
sensor socket covers, use the edge of a credit card
or dive card or some thin, blunt, instrument. Never
use a knife or other sharp-edged object. Push up
on the center of the cover with a fingertip (or pointed
object), insert the card under the ring, and puli it up
to lift the 0-ring out (see Fig. 2). Do not scratch the
0-ring in the process.
2. Visually examine each 0-ring for imperfections. If
any 0-ring is damaged (by tears, cuts, or other im
perfections), discard it immediately. If any 0-ring has
dirt, sand, hair, or foreign matter on it, rinse the 0-ring
in fresh water to remove it.
3. When lubricating the various parts of your flash unit,
use only the special non-water-soluble silicone
lubricant supplied with the speedlight. Never use
other lubricants (such as Vaseline) which are watersoluble.
4. To lubricate the 0-rings, smear a small amount of the
special silicone lubricant on your fingertips and then
gently run each 0-ring between your fingertips.
Never use a brush or similar object to apply the lubri
cant; small hairs may fall into the channel and allow
water to enter the flash unit. While lubricating each
0-ring, examine it with your fingertips for imperfec
tions. If an 0-ring is properly lubricated, it will glisten
and will not have "gobs” of lubricant on it.
To ensure the longest possible flash unit life, apply
lubricant whenever necessary. Lubrication protects
the 0-rings from excessive wear; it also makes it
easier to attach or remove other parts.
5. Visually examine the channels into which the 0-rings
fit to determine that each is clean and smooth. If any
channel is dirty, clean it with a non-lint-bearing mate
rial. Coat each channel with a thin film of lubricant
while being careful not to apply too much.
6. Reseat all of the 0-rings with your fingertips by insert
ing one side of the ring into the channei and holding it
in position while rolling the other side of the ring into
piace (Fig. 3). To insert the 0-rings into the channels
of the synchro socket and sensor socket covers,
push up on the center of the cover with a fingertip
(or pointed object), piace the ring over the channel,
then press it down into place. Check that the 0-ring
is not twisted and that each of its edges is properly
seated (see Fig. 4).
7. Check the surfaces which are opposite the 0-rings
to determine that each is clean, smooth, and free of
foreign matter. Clean and lubricate the surfaces in
the same manner as the channels.
8. When reattaching the parts with 0-rings, be sure that
each 0-ring seats properly and securely. All of the
0-rings must be properly aligned and not “pinched."
Fig. 1
Fig. 3
V
Fig. 2
Fig. 4
PREPARATION —continued.
The preceding instructions must be performed on each
user-serviceable 0-ring prior to each dive day and, if
possible, prior to each dive. By following these pro
cedures and all other procedures in this instruction
manual, you will be able to enjoy using your Nikonos
Speedlight SB-102 for many years.
Reminder; An extra set of 0-rings and a tube of lubri
cant are supplied with the flash unit. Additional 0-rings
and lubricant are available from authorized Nikon
dealers and service centers.
The 0-rings and their seaiing method
The method used by the 0-rings to seal and waterproof
the flash unit is shown in the following illustrations.
When a low level of pressure exists (for instance, just
under the water’s surface), each 0-ring seals its groove
by its own elastic force (see Chart A). When the pres
sure increases (at greater depths), the 0-ring’s shape
is altered and its sealing ability is increased to withstand
the greater pressure. The pressure changes the ring
from its original “0” shape (when looking at a cross
sectional view) to a ','D” shape (see Chart B).
Pressure
Chart A
O Slight compression
Chart B
TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT CARE
1. After using the speedlight and camera under
water, rinse them both as soon as possibie in
fresh running water with the sync and sensor
cords attached. When the speediight/camera
assembly gets dirty, rinse it thoroughly in fresh
water. Immediately after using it in salt water,
rinse it thoroughly in fresh water to remove any
residue. Otherwise, corrosion may occur in
minute places like small holes or the junctions
of parts. To prevent this, soak the speedlight/
camera assembly overnight in a basin of fresh
water, then rinse it vigorously in running water
while paying special attention to the joint @, arm
@, bracket screw®, buckles®, and similar parts
where it is very difficult to remove mud or salt.
Finally, dry the speediight/camera assembly with
a soft cloth—never by heating—before removing
the sync and sensor cords. Be sure to wipe away
any drops of water that may have speeded in
past the 0-ring.
When the unit is completely dry, check the
0-rings. If any of them is scratched or damaged,
immediately replace it with a new one by follow
ing the procedures in “PREPARATION.”
All moving parts should be lubricated to prevent
corrosion and facilitate attachment. Apply lubri
cant sparingly and be sure to wipe off any excess.
When the speedlight will not be used for some
time, store it in a cool, dry, clean place with the
batteries and battery chamber cap removed.
2. Never submerge the speedlight in water with
the sync or sensor socket cover removed, or
get the sync or sensor cord plugs wet. Always
make sure the sync cord and sensor cord plugs
are securely attached before entering the water.
3. Never pick up or suspend the speedlight by the
sync or sensor cords.
4. If an 0-ring with dust, scratches, or damage is
used, water may enter the flash unit and damage
the electrical circuitry. Before and after diving,
check the 0-rings by following the procedures
in PREPARATION
5. Do not allow the speedlight to be exposed to
direct sunlight for long periods. And never place
the speedlight in an area where the temperature
is or may rise to 60°C (140°F) such as in a
closed car or car trunk during warm weather.
6. Fligh-voltage circuitry may cause electrical
shock if water enters the flash unit. Should water
get inside the flash unit, take it—with the bat
teries and battery chamber cap removed—to
an authorized Nikon dealer or service center
immediately.
If you experience difficulty of an electrical nature
with the unit, never attempt to disassemble or
service it yourself. Instead, take the unit to an
authorized Nikon dealer or service center.
7. As much as possible, avoid removing the battery
chamber cap near salty wind or splashing water
because either may damage the unit’s electrical
circuitry. If the battery chamber cap must be
removed in one of these situations, for instance,
to exchange batteries, use a vinyl bag to prevent
water or salt from entering the unit.
8. When not using the speedlight, remove batteries
to prevent damage from battery leakage. Leaking
batteries may also cause dangerous combustible
gases to be trapped inside the battery chamber.
If the battery chamber becomes corroded by
leakage, take the unit to an authorized Nikon
dealer or service center.
9. To remove dirt or fingerprints, wipe with a soft,
dry or silicon-treated cloth. Never use thinner,
benzine, or alcohol because they may damage
plastic parts. To clean the Wide-Flash Adapter
SW-102, wash it with soap and water. Never
use a brush.
10. If this speedlight is frequently used underwater
(especially in salt water or dirty water), take it to
an authorized Nikon dealer or service center for
inspection on a regular basis.
11. If the speedlight is dropped or bumped against
a hard surface, take it to an authorized Nikon
dealer or service center for inspection even if
there is no surface damage.
12. After using the speedlight, attach the dust-proof
plastic caps to the sync and sensor cord plugs
to protect them from damage.
BASIC OPERATIONS
^ Unlock the buckle
" lock/release latches
® and unlock the
buckles ®.
Pull up the buckle lock/release latch
and push the buckles outward and
downward.
Note: The small numbers In circles identify
parts of the speedlight as listed in the
NOMENCLATURE section.
2 Remove the battery
■ chamber cap ®.
Push down on the buckles until the
battery chamber cap is separated
from the speedlight case.
Unlock the silver buckle catches
from the pins on the speedlight
case and pull up on the battery
chamber cap.
•After using the speedlight underwater, rinse
it thoroughly in running water and wipe off
any droplets with a soft cloth before re
moving the battery chamber cap.
Remove the C-type
‘ battery cartridge @
from the battery
chamber.
Install the batteries.
" Install six 1.5V C-type alkalinemanganese batteries or six 1.2 V
NiCd batteries.
Make sure the positive and negative
(-1- and -) terminals are aligned as
shown in the diagram on the car
tridge. Make sure you always push
the first battery in each slot against
the mobile contact.
To remove
Remove the batteries installed in
the side slots first.
• Do not: Insert batteries improperly: leave
flash unit turned on when not in use. Any of
these may damage the flash unit. Also, do
not leave batteries installed when the flash
unit is not being used: it m ay cause the
batteries to explode.
• Do not drop or damage the battery cartridge.
• Use only one brand or type of battery at any
given time. When replacing batteries, re
place alt six at the same time.
•Warning: Batteries may be hot when you
remove them: handle carefully.
• Use of manganese batteries is not recom
mended.
• Check proper battery installation before
shooting. Turn flash unit on and make sure
the SB-102's ready-light lights up within 30
seconds.
• Please see “OPTIMUM BATTERY PER
FORMANCE." page 32.
Replace the C-type
■ battery cartridge in
the battery chamber.
Be sure the speedlight power switch
® is in the “OFF” position, then
align the groove on the battery car
tridge with the notch on the inside
of the compartment and slide the
battery cartridge into the chamber.
Replace the battery
" chamber cap.
While holding the buckles away
from the battery chamber cap,
align the battery chamber cap
index @ with the index on the speed-
light case and replace the battery
chamber cap.
Check the 0-ring: Before replacing
the battery chamber cap, examine
its 0-ring for dust and scratches
and be sure it is properly seated
and lubricated.
Lock the buckles.
" Push the battery chamber cap
against the speedlight case so it is
fully seated, hook the silver buckle
catches onto the pins on the speedlight case, and pull the buckles In
ward and upward until they lock
into position,
• When locking the buckles, be sure the silver
buckle catches are hooked onto the pins on
the speedlight case.
A Lock the buckle lock/
■ release latches.
Push the buckle lock/release
latches over the edges of the
buckles to lock them.
Loosen the joint
" knob ®.
To loosen the joint knob, turn it
counterclockwise while holding the
joint plate (g).
Properly position the
■ joint plate.
Turn the joint knob so the flat sides
of the joint plate are parallel with
the flat edges of the joint.
BASIC OPERATIONS —continued.
A4 Insert the joint plate
■ into the joint collar®.
While holding the base of the joint
knob against the joint, slide the joint
plate into the joint collar until it is
fully seated.
• W hen in serting the joint plate into the joint
collar, be sure the flat edges of the joint plate
remain parallel to the flat edges of the joint.
AO Lock the joint.
Align the flash head position
ing index ®) with the "normal” posi
tion mark on the flash head posi
tioning scale, then turn the joint
knob clockwise until the joint is
locked in position.
•See page 18 lor information about removing
the joint.
40 Loosen the joint
" lever ®.
Turn the joint lever counterclock
wise as tar as it will go to loosen it.
A A Insert the arm ® into
the joint.
Insert the arm positioning screw @
into the slot in the joint. The arm
can be inserted from either side of
the joint. The normal position is
shown in the photo.
10
4C Position the arm.
Align the arm positioning
screw with the arm positioning
index ® on the joint by turning the
arm 90°.
4 A Lock the arm.
After aligning the arm posi
tioning screw with the arm position
ing index, turn the joint lever clock
wise as tar as it will go to lock the
arm into position.
• Normally, the joint is locked at the top of the
arm.
•Before diving, be sure the joint knob and
joint lever are locked tightly.
Loosen the arm
■ knob®.
Turn the arm knob counterclock
wise as far as it will go to loosen it
(the two bracket positioning pins
on the bottom of the grip (g) will
be visible).
Attach the bracket
■ @) to the arm.
Slide the open end of the bracket
between the arm knob and the grip,
seat the two bracket positioning
pins in the two indentations on the
bracket, and turn the arm knob
clockwise as far as it will go to lock
the bracket into position.
• The correct arm/bracket position is with the
three washers on the underside of the
bracket, the rubber side of the bracket facing
up, and flat side of the grip perpendicular
to the bracket.
19. Attach the cord
■ fastening hanger <
to the bracket.
As shown in the photo, slide
cord fastening hanger onto
bracket.
2Q^ Remove the
■ camera’s flash sync
socket cover.
the
Turn the camera’s sync socket
the
cover counterclockwise with a coin
to remove it.
21. Attach the camera
' body to the bracket.
With the camera against the rubber
side of the bracket and the camera’s
tripod socket over the bracket
screw, screw the bracket screw
into the camera’s tripod socket
until the camera and bracket are
securely attached.
Nikonos-V or Nikonos IV-A
11
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