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User guide
Profoto A1
For other languages visit:
www.profoto.com
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A1 AirTTL
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www.profoto.com
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Congratulations on your new
Profoto product!
Regardless if you chose a new flash or a new light shaping tool, know
that almost half a century’s worth of experience was put into its making.
If the years have taught us one thing, it is to never neglect a single
detail. We only put our name on a product in which we have the fullest
confidence. Before shipping, every one of our products passes an
extensive and strict testing program. Unless it complies with the
specified performance, quality and safety, it is a no-go.
As a result, we are confident that your new Profoto product will stay
with you for years and help you grow as a photographer. But getting the
product is only the beginning of that journey. Using it for light shaping is
the real adventure. That is why we take pride in providing you with such
a wide assortment of light shaping tools, allowing you to shape the light
in any way you can imagine.
The almost infinite possibilities might seem bewildering at first, but
we’re certain you will soon get the hang of it.
I encourage you to sign up for our newsletter or visit Profoto stories,
www.profoto.com/profoto-stories, to learn more about shaping
light from photographers who are sharing their stories about how
Profoto Light Shaping Tools help them to create outstanding images.
Enjoy your Profoto product!
Conny Dufgran, founder
A1 AirTTL
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www.profoto.com
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General safety instructions
Safety Precautions!
A1 AirTTL
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Do not operate the equipment before studying the instruction manual and the accompanying safety.
Make sure that Profoto Safety Instructions is always accompanied the equipment! Profoto products
are intended for indoor conditions use. Do not place or use the equipment where it can be exposed to
moisture, extreme electromagnetic fields, or in areas with flammable gases or dust! Do not expose the
equipment to dripping or splashing. Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on or near
the equipment. Do not expose the equipment to hasty temperature changes in humid conditions as this
could lead to condensation water in the unit. Do not connect this equipment to flash equipment from
other brands. Front lens shall be changed if it has become visibly damaged to such an extent that their
effectiveness is impaired, for example by cracks or deep scratches. Equipment must only be serviced,
modified or repaired by authorized and competent service personnel
WARNING – Electrical Shock Hazard – High Voltage!
Do not open or disassemble flashes, generators or lamp heads! Equipment operates with high voltage.
Generator capacitors are electrically charged for a considerable length of time after being turned off.
Batteries (battery pack or batteries installed) shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as direct
sunlight, fire, or the like.
Caution – Burn Hazard – Hot Parts!
If front lens cracks, it must be replaced before re-use of the equipment. Do not touch front lens during
operation it may reach high temperature.
Note about RF!
This equipment makes use of the radio spectrum and emits radio frequency energy. Proper care
should be taken when the device is integrated in systems. Make sure that all specifications within this
document are followed, especially those concerning operating temperature and supply voltage range.
Make sure the device is operated according to local regulations. The frequency spectrum this device
is using is shared with other users. Interference cannot be ruled out.
CLASS 1
Laser radiation
LASER PRODUCT
IEC 60825-1, Edition 2.0 (2007-03). Wavelength at room temperature: 660 nm. Power through 7 mm
aperture at 100 mm distance in front of the exit window of the autofocus assist unit at room temperature:
< 300 µW. Complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice
No. 50, date June 24, 2007.
Caution: Do not remove, disassemble or manipulate the laser auto focus assist light. Failure to comply
with this caution might lead to possible exposure to hazardous laser radiation.
Final Disposal
Equipment contains electrical and electronic components that could be harmful to the environment.
Equipment may be returned to Profoto distributors free of charge for recycling according to WEEE.
Follow local legal requirements for separate disposal of waste, for instance WEEE directive for electrical
and electronic equipment on the European market, when product life has ended!
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Table of Contents
General safety instructions .............................................................................................4
Introduction .........................................................................................................................6
About the product............................................................................................6
Getting started .................................................................................................................. 10
Battery charging .............................................................................................10
Attach battery to flash ....................................................................................11
Attach light shaping tools .............................................................................11
On-camera use in TTL mode ......................................................................12
On-camera use in manual mode ...............................................................12
O-camera use ............................................................................................... 13
Operation .............................................................................................................................14
Power on/o .....................................................................................................14
Mode selection (TTL or Manual) ................................................................14
Energy scale .................................................................................................... 15
Operation in TTL mode (Automatic mode) ........................................... 15
Operation in MAN mode (Manual mode) ................................................17
Modeling light ................................................................................................. 18
Activate/deactivate flash head ................................................................ 19
Manual zoom ................................................................................................... 19
Test sync .......................................................................................................... 20
Using the flash o-camera ........................................................................20
Change settings ............................................................................................ 20
General notes on Profoto Air operation ................................................................... 26
Light shaping .................................................................................................................... 28
Dome Diuser ................................................................................................ 29
Bounce Card ...................................................................................................30
Wide Lens ......................................................................................................... 31
Additional functions ....................................................................................................... 33
Firmware upgrade ......................................................................................... 33
Factory reset ...................................................................................................33
Profoto Air compatibility .............................................................................................. 34
Technical data .................................................................................................................. 35
Warranty ..............................................................................................................................37
Regulatory information .................................................................................................38
A1 AirTTL
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www.profoto.com
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Introduction
About the product
We have designed the A1 to be the world’s smallest studio light.
A1 AirTTL
It is designed to provide a beautiful light with great light shaping
capabilities and also being incredible easy to use.
We have made the head round to create a circular and natural light
pattern. We have a soft and even light fall off that makes it easy to
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control and set the light creatively. In addition to that we have a range
of dedicated Light Shaping Tools that are easily clicked on with a
magnetic mount.
The A1 has also AirTTL Remote and receiver built-in, which means it
will automatically communicate with other freestanding Profoto lights
wirelessly and it can also be used off-camera. This makes it easy to
grow in a system and grow with light shaping.
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1
2
A1 AirTTL
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8
1. Flash head
2. Zoom ring
3. LED Modeling lights
4. Battery
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3
6
4
7
5. Battery release button
6. AF (auto focus) assist
structured laser light
7. Hot shoe connector
8. USB port
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A1 AirTTL
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9
10
11
15
12
13
14
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9. Display
10. Mode switch (TTL or MAN).
Only active when A1 is
on-camera.
11. Group buttons (A, B, C, D)
12. TEST button & ON/OFF
button
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13. Dial
14. Settings button
15. MODEL button
16. Lock ring
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17. Battery charger
18. Battery charger indicator
19. Flash stand
20. Bag
21. Dome diffuser
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21
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22. Bounce card
23. Bounce card holder
24. Bounce card pouch
25. Wide lens
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A1 AirTTL
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Getting started
Battery charging
For optimal performance, the battery should be fully charged prior to
A1 AirTTL
usage. The battery can be charged from any charge level. For increased
life-time, do not leave the battery uncharged for a long time.
Charge the battery:
1. Push the battery release button [5] and remove the battery from
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the flash. This can be done while the A1 is mounted on the camera.
2. Connect the battery to battery charger [17]
3. Connect the battery charger to mains power.
4. Check that the charge indicator [18] is continuously orange,
indicating that charging is in progress.
5. When the charging is completed, the charge indicator [18] is
green.
Note:
If the battery is deeply discharged, the charging time can be longer than specified in
section Technical data.
Battery blinking orange indicates battery error. Contact your local Profoto dealer for
support.
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Attach battery to flash
Connect the bottom part of the battery to the flash and then press it in
place until you hear a ”click”.
Attach light shaping tools
The dedicated light shaping tools are easy and quick to attach. Just
snap them in place in front of the flash lens until you hear a ”click”. To
remove them, just pull them off.
A1 AirTTL
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On-camera use in TTL mode
1. Slide the hot shoe connector [7] on the A1 into the hot shoe of the
camera. Turn the locking mechanism to secure.
A1 AirTTL
2. Switch on the A1.
3. Turn the dial [13] clockwise to unlock.
4. Use the mode switch [10] to select TTL mode.
5. Take an image with the camera and the flash will adjust its power
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to get a correct exposure.
6. Use the dial [13] to adjust the flash exposure compensation.
This can also be done in camera by changing the flash exposure
compensation.
TIP: You can at all time switch to manual mode and keep the setting from the last TTL
flash. This is extra helpful when you need to lock the flash exposure and keep it constant.
Note:
TTL is only available in group A-C and group D-F are always manual mode, even if switch
[10] is set to TTL mode.
On-camera use in manual mode
1. Follow step 1-3 above
2. Use the mode switch [10] to select MAN (Manual) mode.
3. Take an image to check the exposure or use the test button [12]
and light meter to measure the exposure.
4. Use the dial [13] to adjust the light output to your preferences.
TIP: To improve efficiency, use TTL for first shot and then switch to manual to lock the
flash exposure. By doing this you get correct exposure quickly and then you can fine
tune flash exposure in manual mode.
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Off-camera use
This describes how to operate an A1 unit off-camera and with an A1 unit
on camera as transmitting unit. When A1 is used off-camera together
with an Air Remote on camera, please see instruction manual for Air
Remote how to adjust the flash from on-camera position.
1. Switch on the A1.
2. Turn the dial [13] clockwise to unlock.
3. Turn on Air and select the same radio channel on the A1 unit as on
the transmitting unit on the camera.
4. Select a group for the A1 flash.
5. Take an image to check the exposure or use the test button [12]
and light meter to measure the exposure in manual mode.
6. Adjust overall flash exposure compensation with dial [13] or in
camera menu.
7. To adjust an individual light, select the group on the group
buttons [11] you like to adjust on the transmitting unit and adjust
energy by rotating the dial [13]. This can both be done in TTL- and
manual mode.
8. In manual mode, the energy setting can also be done on each
unit individually.
Note:
When A1 is used as off-camera unit, the TTL/MAN switch (10) will be overridden.
Selecting TTL or manual is used on the trigger unit on camera.
A1 AirTTL
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Operation
Mounted in the camera hot shoe, the A1 unit acts both as an on-camera
flash and as a wireless extension of your camera to your Profoto off-
A1 AirTTL
camera flashes, combining TTL (Through-The-Lens) exposure control
with the option to manually adjust and sync your Profoto flashes.
Power on/off
• Push the ON/OFF button [12] to switch on the A1.
• Push and hold the ON/OFF button [12] to switch off the A1.
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When the A1 is switched off, the current settings (except for TTL) are
stored and will apply when the unit is switched on again.
To save battery, the A1 automatically enters standby mode after a
period of inactivity (selectable via the standby setting) and switches
off completely after 90 minutes. These functions can be deactivated
via the standby setting.
In standby mode, the display [9] and test button [12] are switched off. To
return to operational mode, push any of the A1 buttons or use the camera.
Note:
When the standby and auto power off functions are deactivated, the batteries will drain
in approx. 8 hours of inactive use.
Mode selection (TTL or Manual)
Use the mode switch [10] to select TTL or or MAN mode. The mode
switch is only active for the on-camera unit. When the A1 is used offcamera, the function of the switch is disabled and the on-camera unit
will dictate to all off-camera units if TTL or manual mode is used.
• TTL mode: The camera dictates the light output of the flashes.
The relation between the energy levels for group A-C and flash
exposure compensation can be set up from the A1.
• MAN mode: The light output for group A, B and C can be
controlled manually from the A1.
Note:
By pressing a group twice all groups will be selected and highlighted. All settings done
will now apply to all groups A, B, C, D, E and F.
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Energy scale
The A1 unit has a relative f-stop scale to indicate the energy level. Full
energy, 100% is always shown as 10.0. Decreasing 1-fstop means
reducing the energy to half, hence energy 9.0 is 50% of total energy.
Energy can be adjusted in precise 0.1 f-stop increments.
Operation in TTL mode (Automatic mode)
Adjustment of energy level relations
In TTL mode the camera dictates the light output of the flashes. If more
than one light is used the relationship between the energy levels of
group A, B and C can be adjusted. This can, for example, be used to
achieve more light on one side of the object.
1. Press the A, B or C group button [11] to select the corresponding
group.
2. When a group is selected, do one or more of the following:
• Use the dial [13] to set the relative light output for the selected
group, in relation to the other groups. The relations can be set
to +/- 2 f-stops for each group A, B or C.
• Press the MODEL button [15] to turn on/off the modeling light
in the selected group.
• Press and hold the group button [11] to turn on/off the lamp
heads in the selected group. (If the heads in a group are turned
off, the relation value for that group will display ‘--’.)
• The display automatically returns to the main menu after a few
seconds.
Note:
If flashes without Profoto AirTTL support are used in combination with Profoto AirTTL
flashes in TTL mode, the flash outputs of the non-TTL flashes are added to the total
flash exposure. Such flashes can for instance be used to manually set the exposure
on the background.
A1 AirTTL
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If a Profoto AirTTL compatible flash is set to group D, E or F, it will be synchronized but not
part of the TTL calculation. The flash outputs of these flashes are added to the total flash
exposure and can for instance be used to manually set the exposure on the background.
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Flash exposure compensation
As an alternative to the flash exposure compensation function in the
camera, the A1 can be used to compensate the total flash exposure
A1 AirTTL
when in TTL mode.
Use the dial [13] to adjust the flash exposure compensation ±3.0
f-stops.
Display view in TTL mode
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Example of Display [9] settings in TTL mode operation
The figure shows an example of the display view in TTL mode when:
• AIR is activated and channel 1 is selected. The A1 flash unit is set
to belong to group B.
• TTL mode is selected. The flash exposure compensation is set to
-1.4 f-stops.
• The energy is set to 4.3. In TTL mode the energy will be set
automatically for each flash.
• The energy relation between the groups is shown above each
group. In TTL mode the numbers only show the relation between
the groups. The absolute flash exposure is set by the flash
exposure compensation, either in the flash or in the camera.
• The relative light output from lights in group A is set to 2.6
f-stops more than lights in group B and 0.8 f-stops more than
group D.
• Group B is selected to be adjusted.
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• Lights in group C are turned off
• Group D has no offset and will be 0.8 f-stops less than lights in
group A and 1.8 f-stops more than lights in group B
• The modeling light is turned on in group A and on A1 unit.
Operation in MAN mode (Manual mode)
With the A1 set to MAN mode, the light output for the groups A, B, C, and
D can be adjusted manually.
• Select group(s) by doing one of the following:
• Press the A, B, C, or D group button [11] to select the
corresponding group.
• To select all groups, press one of the group buttons [11] twice.
When all groups are selected, the A1 will also control the lights
in group E and F (selected on the flash).
• When a group is selected, do one or more of the following:
• Use the dial [13] to adjust the light output for the group.
The adjustment always starts from the current light output
setting (displayed as 0.0 above the group indicator) and the
adjustment value (e.g. +1.2) is momentarily shown above the
group indicator.
• Press the MODEL button [15] to turn on/off the modeling light
in the selected group.
• Press and hold the group button [11] to turn on/off the flashes
in the selected group.
• The display automatically returns to the main menu after a few
seconds.
Note:
If a light output cannot be set by the flash because it is outside its energy range, the A1
beeps to signal that the command was not executed. The light output of all flashes in
the selected group then remains unchanged.
A1 AirTTL
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Display view in MAN mode
A1 AirTTL
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Example of Display [9] settings in MAN mode operation
The figure shows an example of the display view in MAN mode when:
• AIR is activated and channel 1 is selected. The A1 flash unit is set
to belong to group B.
• The energy for the A1 flash is set to 3.3.
• The A1 modeling light is turned on.
• Group B is selected to be adjusted and the energy has been
changed with +1.1 f-stop.
• Lights in group C are turned off
• The modeling light is turned on in group A and on A1 flash unit.
Modeling light
To turn on the modeling light on A1, press MODEL button [15].
To turn on modeling light on a specific group, first select group A, B, C
or D and then press MODEL button [15].
When the A1 modeling light is on, a white dot is displayed to the right on
the display and/or on the different groups.
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Activate/deactivate flash head
The flash head can be deactivated without turning off the power of the
A1 unit. This is used when the A1 should work as a remote control for
off-camera flashes but no flash itself.
Press and hold the MODEL button [15] to turn on/off the A1 lamp head.
When the A1 lamp is off, ‘--’ is shown in the center of the display [9].
Note:
The A1 flash head can also be activated/deactivated in the settings menu.
Manual zoom
The beam angle from the flash can be adjusted at any time to match
your preferences. You can for example narrow the light to highlight part
of the image.
Rotate the Zoom ring [2] on the flash head clockwise or counter
clockwise to change the beam angle.
Zoom ring
A1 AirTTL
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Test sync
To test the flash or take meter readings with a light meter the test button
will fire a flash on the A1 unit. If Air is activated it will also fire test flashes
A1 AirTTL
on all flashes on the selected channel.
Press the test button [12] to manually transmit a sync signal and fire
the flash.
Using the flash off-camera
The A1 unit is easy to use also as an off-camera flash unit as it has a built
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in radio transceiver (AirTTL). The transmitting unit in the camera hot
shoe can be either an A1 unit or an Air Remote.
1. On the transmitting unit in the camera hot shoe, enable Air and
set channel.
2. On the off-camera unit, enable Air and set channel to the same as
on the transmitting unit.
Change settings
All settings are easily accessed in the settings menu.
For detailed information about the different settings, see the subsequent sections.
1. Push the settings button [14] to display the settings menu.
2. The menu is split between main functions and secondary
functions for fast and easy access. Press rightmost group button
[11] to select next page in the menu.
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3. Turn the dial [13] to select (highlight) a setting.
A1 AirTTL
4. Press the settings button [14] to display the options menu for the
selected setting.
5. Turn the dial [13] to change the setting option.
6. Press the settings button [14] to choose option and return to the
settings menu.
7. Press the leftmost group button [11] to select EXIT and return to
the main menu.
Note:
Please note that the user interface may be updated in future firmware releases. This is
done to improve user interface or improve functionality.
www.profoto.com
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Modeling light
The modeling light is a constant light source positioned in the flash
head. The angle of the light (light spread) will follow the zoom setting
A1 AirTTL
on the flash. Use the modeling light to analyze shadows or as a help to
position your subject in relation to the flash.
The model setting is used to select how the A1 modeling light intensity
should correspond with the flash light output.
There are three setting options for the A1 modeling light:
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• MIN: The A1 modeling lamp gets the half intensity, regardless of
the selected energy level (light output).
• MAX: The A1 modeling lamp gets the maximum intensity,
regardless of the selected energy level (light output).
• PROP: The A1 modeling light intensity is automatically adjusted
to be proportional to the selected light output (energy level).
Ready
Ready signaling is used to indicate when the A1 flash is fully recycled.
There are four ready signaling options:
• BEEP: The A1 unit beeps when it is ready to flash again after
recharging. This option will also enable key sound.
• DIM: The A1 modeling light turns off after flashing and turns on
when the A1 unit is ready to flash again.
• BEEP DIM: The A1 modeling light turns off after flashing. The A1
modeling light turns on and the A1 unit beeps when it is ready to
flash again.
• OFF: No ready signal.
The test button [12] always comes off after flashing and comes on
again when the A1 flash is fully recycled.
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Sync
The selected sync setting (camera sync setting) is shown in the top of
the display [9].
There are three sync options:
• 1st: The flashes fire when the first shutter curtain is fully open.
• 2nd: The flashes fire just before the second curtain starts
traveling.
• Hi-S: HSS (High Speed Sync/Auto FP) mode is selected.
• X-Sync: Maximizes frame rates per second in continues
shooting. All communication except sync signal is disabled
between the flash and the camera and because of this the flash
will only operate in manual mode.
HSS enables shooting with flash at a faster shutter speed than the
fastest external flash sync speed (x-sync) of the camera, all the way
down to 1/8000s (may differ between camera models). This option
can be extremely useful to limit the influence of ambient light when
shooting in bright conditions.
Note:
The sync setting (1st, 2nd and Hi-S) works slightly different for Canon and Nikon. In
Canon you can change the setting in both camera and on flash unit. On Nikon, the sync
settings are only done in camera. Refer to the camera’s user guide for how to change
sync settings in camera.
The A1 unit can be used on other camera brands in X-sync mode if the camera has a hot
shoe with a central positioned sync contact. This is standard for most cameras today. In
this mode the camera will be a full manual flash without TTL- or HSS compatibility. Other
functions that are controlled from the camera will also be disabled.
A1 AirTTL
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Group
The group setting (A-F) applies to the A1 flash.
The selected group is shown in the top of the display [9].
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Channel
The channel setting (1-8) applies to the A1 control unit and the A1 flash.
A1 AirTTL
The selected channel is shown in the top of the display [9].
Air
The Air setting is used to activate/deactivate the built-in Profoto Air
transceiver.
• ON: The A1 can be used to trigger and/or control Profoto Air flash
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units and generators, including the A1 flash.
• OFF: The A1 can only be used to control the A1 flash.
Head
The head setting is used to activate/deactivate the A1 flash head. By
doing this the flash will not fire when it receives a sync signal. This
function works both on -and off-camera.
Backlight
The backlight of the display [9] has an impact on the battery time.
There are three backlight options:
• MIN
• MEDIUM
• MAX
Standby
There are three standby options:
• 2 min: Standby mode is entered after 2 minutes of inactivity.
• 30 min: Standby mode is entered after 30 minutes of inactivity.
• OFF: Standby mode is disabled. This setting also disables the
auto power off function.
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Zoom
The zoom (beam angle) setting applies to the A1 flash.
The following zoom options are available:
• Manual: The beam angle is adjusted manually, by turning the
zoom ring [2].
• Auto: The beam angle of the A1 flash light will automatically follow
the zooming on the camera.
• The beam angle of the A1 flash can be set to five different beam
angles, from wide to narrow.
Note
If a light shaping tool is attached to A1, the beam angle will be different
AF assist
The AF (autofocus) assist setting activates or deactivates the AF assist.
The AF assist light works with a structured laser light which is harmless
to the eyes.
• OFF: Deactivates the AF assist
• AUTO: The camera activates the AF assist automatically when
needed
• ON: Activates the AF assist so that it is always on.
A1 AirTTL
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General notes on Profoto Air operation
The Profoto Air channels [1-8] use eight specific frequencies in the 2.4
GHz band and have an operating range of up to 300 meters (1000ft).
A1 AirTTL
The frequencies are evenly distributed over the entire frequency band.
Since each channel uses a different radio frequency, it is possible
to select a channel without interference from other photographers
using Profoto Air, WLAN/Bluetooth devices, or other radio equipment
operating on the 2.4 GHz frequency band.
• Maintain line of sight between the Air Remote TTL-C/N and the
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flash unit whenever possible
• When hiding the flash from view, try to not hide it behind or
against metal or water-filled objects as this will affect the radio
range.
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A1 AirTTL
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Light shaping
The A1 flash creates a round and even light spread in all zoom positions.
In addition, there are specially designed light shaping tools for the A1
A1 AirTTL
that can modify the light quality in various ways.
When A1 is used on camera it can automatically follow the zoom
setting on the lens. For creative freedom the beam angle can also be
set manually, either in the menu or by rotating the zoom ring [2]. When
the zoom ring [2] is used the beam angle setting will automatically go
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to manual mode. The current beam angle setting is shown in the top
of the display [9].
The zoom setting on the flash corresponds approximately to the
following focal length coverage for a 35mm camera.
Beam angle setting Focal length coverage
A1 without accessories A1 with wide lens
105 mm 24mm
80 mm
60 mm 18mm
45 mm
32 mm 14mm
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Dome Diffuser
The Dome Diffuser attaches to the A1 unit with the built in magnetic
mount. The light quality will be diffused and spread omni directional.
This is often used when bouncing the light in the ceiling to get a softer
and less directional light. Direct the flash head against the surface to
bounce off from.
Note:
The Dome Diffuser can also be stacked together with other light shaping tools. For
example the optional Gel can be used in combination with the Dome Diffuser.
A1 AirTTL
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Bounce Card
The Bounce Card attaches in the same way as the Dome Diffuser with
a magnetic mount. The application is similar to the Dome Diffuser but
A1 AirTTL
will provide a more directional light quality.
To attach the Bounce Card to its holder, squeeze the sides of the
Bounce card slightly and then push it firmly into the holder until the
card locks in place.
In most cases the flash is directed against a bouncing surface and the
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bounce card is directed against the subject.
Note:
The Bounce Card can also be stacked together with other light shaping tools. For
example the optional gel can be used in combination with the Bounce Card.
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Wide Lens
The Wide Lens is used when a wider light spread is needed, for example
when using super wide lenses. The built in zoom function of the A1 unit
will still work which means beam angle can be adjusted from super
wide to wide light spread.
A1 AirTTL
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A1 AirTTL
www.profoto.com
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Additional functions
Firmware upgrade
We recommend that you look for firmware upgrades before you start
using your new A1.
To access the latest free upgrades; create your personal account
on profoto.com/myprofoto. Once you have an account you can also
choose to register your products and be sure you get noticed when
new upgrades are released.
Upgrade of firmware is made via the USB port [8] on the A1, following
the instructions provided in the upgrade application downloaded from
profoto.com/myprofoto. You can always contact your local dealer or
distributor for professional service.
Check current firmware version:
1. Switch on the A1.
2. Push settings button [14] and then to second page in the menu.
3. Select VERSION by pressing settings button [14]
Factory reset
To reset all settings to default:
1. Switch on the A1.
2. Push settings button [14] and then to second page in the menu.
3. Select VERSION by pressing settings button [14]
4. Push the rightmost group button [11] to select RESET.
A1 AirTTL
33
www.profoto.com
Page 34
Profoto Air compatibility
• The Profoto A1 AirTTL-C is specifically designed for Canon
cameras that use Canon’s E-TTL II metering system.
A1 AirTTL
• The Profoto A1 AirTTL-N is specifically designed for Nikon
cameras that use Nikon’s i-TTL metering system.
• Some camera models may not be supported or have limited
functionality. Check profoto.com for the latest information on
34
camera support.
• The Profoto A1 AirTTL operates with Profoto flash units and
generators, with built-in Profoto Air functionality according to the
table below.
• The Profoto A1 AirTTL can also be used to trigger the Air Remote
and Air Sync Profoto Air transceivers.
• The Profoto A1 AirTTL flash can also be triggered and controlled
by other Profoto Air transceivers.
• The Profoto A1 AirTTL-C is not compatible with Canon Speedlites
or other non-Profoto flashes.
• The Air Remote TTL-N is not compatible with Nikon Speedlights
or other non-Profoto flashes.
• The Profoto A1 AirTTL is not compatible with any 3rd party radio
triggering systems.
Air labeling on
Profoto flash
AirTTL X X X X
Air X X
AirS X
www.profoto.com
Enabled features on Profoto A1 AirTTL
Manual sync Remote control TTL HSS
Page 35
Technical data
Specifications
Frequency band 2.4GHz (2404 to 2479.3 MHz)
No of frequency channels 8 (1-8)
Radio Power Output Maximum 19.9 dBm
No of groups per channel TTL operation: 3 (A-C)
Manual operation: 6 (A-F)
Operation modes TTL, Manual
Camera TTL compatibility A1 AirTTL-C - Canon E-TTL II
A1 AirTTL-N - Nikon i-TTL
Sync modes 1st curtain, 2nd curtain, Hi-S (HSS/
Auto FP), X-Sync
Camera mount/Connectors Hot shoe mount for Canon/Nikon
USB micro connector for firmware
upgrades
Range Up to 300 m (1000 ft.) for normal
triggering
Up to 100 m (330 ft.) for remote
control and TTL
Flash energy 76Ws
Flash energy range 9 f-stops (2-10)
Flash recycling time 0.05 – 1.2 seconds
Flash duration 1/20,000 - 1/800
Energy stability 0.2 f-stop
Color stability ±150°K
Modeling lamps LED
A1 AirTTL
35
www.profoto.com
Page 36
Specifications
Battery type Li-ion
A1 AirTTL
Battery charging time 80 minutes
Battery capacity: Up to 350 full power flashes
LCD display Ye s
Standby Enters standby mode after a period
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of inactivity (2 min, 30 min, OFF).
Auto power off Turns off after 90 minutes of
inactivity (can be deactivated).
Supported Profoto Air functionality
Flash Sync/Trigger Yes, A1 triggers Air Remote and Air
Sync transceivers plus all Profoto
labeled AirTTL, Air and AirS.
Remote control Yes, A1 works as a manual remote
control for all Profoto flashes
labeled AirTTL and Air.
TTL control TTL with group control for all
Profoto flashes labelled AirTTL.
Measurements (LxWxH)
Dimensions 108x75x165 mm
Weight (including battery) 560g
All data are to be considered as nominal and Profoto reserves the right
make changes without further notice.
www.profoto.com
Page 37
Warranty
All Profoto generators and heads are individually tested before they
leave the company and guaranteed for a period of two years (local
deviations may apply) with the exception of flash tubes, glass covers,
modeling lamps and cables. Profoto is not responsible for technical
malfunctions created by improper use or accessories made by other
companies. If you have any technical problems please get in contact
with an authorized Profoto service station.
A1 AirTTL
37
www.profoto.com
Page 38
Regulatory information
World-wide Usage of Radio Spectrum
The Profoto Air system operates on the license-free 2.4GHz ISM band
A1 AirTTL
for SRD (Short Range Devices). This band may be used in most parts
of the world. Regional restrictions may apply.
Note:
Refer to national regulations for the region where the Profoto A1 AirTTL shall be operated
and make sure that they are followed.
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EU Declaration of Conformity
Hereby, Profoto AB declares that the radio equipment type Profoto A1
AirTTL is in compliance with Directive 2014/53/EU.
The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at the
following internet address: http://media.profoto.com/DoC
Third party copyright & License Terms
Copyright © 2013 Frantisek Burian <BuFran@seznam.cz>
Copyright © 2013 Piotr Esden-Tempski <piotr@esden.net>
LibOpenCM3 is free software licensed under the terms of the GNU
Lesser General Public License as published by the Free Software
Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or (at your option) any later
version. LibOpenCM3 is distributed in the hope that it will be useful,
but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of
MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See
the GNU General Public License and the GNU Lesser General Public.
License for more details, <http://www.gnu.org/licenses/> . You may
obtain a copy of the source code for the LibOpenCM3 under the terms
of the LGPL upon written request to Profoto.
www.profoto.com
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A1 AirTTL
www.profoto.com
Page 40
Profoto AB
Sweden
+46 (0) 8 447 53 00
info@profoto.com
www.profoto.com
344050. May 2017. Printed in Sweden.
Technical data and product information are subject to change without notice.
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