Sony Metz SCA 3302 M7 User Manual

Sony • Minolta

SCA 3302 M7

Flash Adapter for Cameras (see rear)

Adattatore flash per camere (v. retro)

Adaptador de flash para cámaras (vea reverso)

® System SCA 3002

Made in Germany

1. Overview of the Minolta dedicated functions of mecablitz and camera in con-

junction with the SCA 3302 adapter . . . . 4

2. Mounting the adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

3. Switch on and shoot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

3.1 Programmed auto flash mode. . . . . . . . . 7

3.1.1 Settings on the camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

3.1.2 Settings on the flash unit . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

4. Flash photography for advanced amateur

and professional photographers . . . . . . 10

4.1

4.2 Correct exposure confirmation on the

4.3 Automatic flash synch speed control . . 11

4.4 Slow synchronisation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

4.5 Triggering control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

4.6 TTL flash control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

4.7 TTL fill-in flash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

4.8 TTL flash exposure correction (manual

4.9 AF measuring beam control . . . . . . . . . 18

4.10 Motor zoom control (Auto Zoom). . . . . . 20

4.11 Maximum flash range indication. . . . . . 21

4.12 2nd curtain synchronisation (REAR) . . . 22

Symbols in camera viewfinder or monitor

mecablitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

TTL flash exposure correction) . . . . . . . 18

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

4.13 High-speed synchronisation HSS . . . . . 24

4.13.1 Switching on the HSS flash mode. . . . . 24

4.13.2 Switching off the HSS flash mode. . . . . 26

4.14 Auto flash mode A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

4.14.1 Manual flash exposure correction in

the auto flash mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

4.14.2 Auto flash mode A with digital

cameras. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

4.15 Manual flash mode M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

4.15.1 Manual flash mode M with digital

cameras. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

4.16 Wireless Minolta TTL Remote Mode . . . 30

4.17 Cordless Metz Remote Mode . . . . . . . . 44

4.18 Multi-zone flash exposure metering

(preflash metering or TTL preflash). . . . 45

4.18.1 Dynax 7, 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

4.18.2 Dimage A1, A2, 5, 7, 7i, 7Hi . . . . . . . . . 46

4.18.3 Dynax 5D, 7D, Sony α100 . . . . . . . . . . 47

4.19 ADI flash control

(Advanced Distance Integration) . . . . . . 47

4.19.1 Dynax 4, 5, 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

4.19.2 Dimage A1, A2, 5, 7, 7i, 7Hi . . . . . . . . . 49

4.20 Wake-up function for the mecablitz . . . 49

5. Troubleshooting hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

1. Overview of the Minolta dedicated functions of mecablitz and camera in conjunction with the SCA 3302 adapter

Table 1

Flash readiness indication in camera viewfinder / monitor

Correct exposure confirmation in camera viewfinder / monitor

Automatic flash synch speed control

TTL flash control

TTL fill-in flash control

High-speed synchronisation TTL-HSS / M-HSS

Manual TTL flash exposure correction

Minolta Remote Slave Mode for digital cameras

Minolta Remote Slave Mode for analog cameras

Cordless Metz Remote (Controller) Mode

1st or 2nd curtain synchronisation

Motor zoom control

AF measuring beam control

Maximum flash range indication

Programmed auto flash mode / Full auto flash

Multi-zone flash metering (TTL preflash metering)

ADI flash control

mecablitz type

76 MZ-5 digi 70 MZ-5 70 MZ-4

60 CT-4

mit SCA 3000C

54 MZ-.. 50 MZ-5

45 CL-4 digi

with SCA 3045

45 CL-4

with SCA

44 MZ-2 40 MZ-3/3i 40 MZ-1/1i 32 MZ-3 32 Z-2

• = The dedicated function is supported by the mecablitz x = The flash unit does not automatically switch to standby mode (no auto-Off

◊ = Only with Dimage A1, A2, 5, 7, 7i, 7Hi

☞

••••• •••••••••••x

••••• •••••••••◊◊x

••••• • • • • x

••••••••••••••••••

••••• •••••••••◊◊x

••••••••• • • •••x

••••• • • • •◊◊x

3000C

••••• •••••••••◊◊•

••••• • ••••••◊◊

••••• • •••••••◊◊

••••• • ••• •◊◊

••••• • • •◊◊

function)

The dedicated functions can only be performed if both the camera and the mecablitz support these functions (see Table 2 and refer to the operating instructions for the given camera)!

Wake-up function for the mecablitz

Table 2

Camera type

Dynax 9

Dynax 7

Dynax 5

Dynax 4

Dynax 800si

Dynax 600si, 700si

Dynax 505si, 505si super

Dynax 404si

Dynax 303si, 300si, 9xi, 7xi, 5xi, 3xi

Dynax 2xi, SPix, 7000i, 8000i, 3000i, 5000i

5000, 7000, 9000

Vectis S-1 Dimage 5, 7 Dimage A1,

A2, 7i,7Hi Dynax 7D,

5D, α100

Dimage Z1, Z2, Z3, Z5

Dimage A200

••••••••••••••• •

•••••••••••••••••

•••••• •• •••••••

••••• •• •••••••

•••••••••••••• •

••••••••• •••• •

•••••• •• •••• •

•••••• • •••• •

••••• •• •••• •

••••• • •••• •

••••• • •• •

••••• •• •••• •

•• • ∆ •• •••••

••• •••∆ ••••••••

•• ∆ • ••• •

•• ∆ •• ••• •

Flash readiness indication incamera viewfinder / monitor

Correct exposure confirmation in camera viewfinder / monitor

Automatic flash synch speed control

TTL flash control

TTL fill-in flash control

High-speed synchronisation TTL-HSS / M-HSS

Manual flash exposure correction

Minolta Remote Mode[WB1]

Cordless Metz Remote (Controller) Mode

1st or 2nd curtain synchronisation

Motor zoom control

AF measuring beam control

Maximum flash range indication

Programmed auto flash mode / Full auto flash

Multi-zone flash metering (TTL preflash metering)

ADI flash control

Wake-up function for the mecablitz

• = The dedicated function is supported by the camera

∆ = Only in the flash mode „A“ on the mecablitz

2. Mounting the adapter

Before mounting or dismounting the standard

☞

foot 301 or SCA adapter, switch off the mecablitz by its main switch and switch off the camera.

on the mecablitz 32 Z-2, 32 MZ-3, 40 MZ-... , 50 MZ-5, 70 MZ-... and 76 MZ-5 digi:

• Turn the flash unit’s foot by 90° (not on the 50 MZ-5; 70 MZ-..., 76 MZ-5 digi).

• Press the retention catch against the casing, simultaneously pushing the hitherto used standard foot or SCA adapter out of the guide.

Any cover plate that may still be in place (required for the 301 standard foot or SCA 300 adapter) should be gripped in the centre and withdrawn.

on the mecablitz 54 MZ-... :

• Open the battery compartment cover.

• Press the coloured unlatching button in the battery compartment, simultaneously pulling off the standard foot or SCA adapter.

Any cover plate that may still be in place (required for the 301 standard foot or SCA 300 adapter) should be gripped in the centre and withdrawn.

on mecablitz 44 MZ-2:

• Press the locking lever in the middle of the

mecablitz back upwards, keep depressed (if an SCA adapter from the SCA 3002 system is being used then the flap on the back of the adapter must first be opened) and simultaneously withdraw the SCA adapter or 301 standard foot towards the rear.

on the camera:

• Screw the knurled nut of the adapter as far as possible towards the head of the adapter case. The locking pin in the adapter shoe is now fully retracted in the case.

• Slide the adapter into the camera’s accessory shoe.

• Screw the adapter’s knurled nut as far as possible towards the camera body to clamp the adapter in position..

When using the camera with an external flash-

☞

gun on the camera body, any camera-integrated fold-out flash must be completely folded down.

3. Switch on and shoot

You no longer have to first study many pages of lengthy operating instructions before taking perfect flash shots with your mecablitz in combination with the SCA 3302 adapter and a Minolta camera. The following short description will quickly enable you to shoot brilliant flash pictures with the utmost convenience.

3.1 Programmed auto flash mode

In the Program “P” mode, some cameras mix the ambient light with the flashlight and, depending on the camera’s programming, determine whether the flash is to be used as the main light source or for fill-in purposes. The camera concerned automatically adjusts a suitable shutter speed/aperture combination and controls the flash in TTL mode (also see Section 4.6).

3.1.1 Settings on the camera

Set your Minolta camera to Program “P” (see oper ating instructions for the camera).

Some cameras permit various Subject Program

☞

modes to be set, such as Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Action, Sports. Please refer to the operatings instructions for the given camera.

3.1.2 Settings on the flash unit

Set the “TTL” or “EM” mode on your flash unit (EM = Easy-Mode-TTL; only on 40 MZ-..., 50 MZ-5).

For digital cameras please additionally observe

☞

the instructions in section 4.6.

In most cases, use of the operating mode “P” or the Subject Program modes of the camera in combination with your mecablitz and the SCA 3302 adapter automatically provide optimal flash exposure of the subject. Once the above settings have been completed you can instantly start shooting.

Advanced amateur and professional photogra-

☞

phers are advised to study the complete instructions of this SCA 3302 adapter in order to be able to fully exploit the diverse capabilities of the Metz mecablitz system in conjunction with the Minolta camera. But also “average users” should take the time for getting acquainted with the versatile features and functions offered by the adapter, mecablitz and camera combination.

The function for activation of preflashes to

☞

reduce the “red-eye effect” (if provided by the camera) can only be performed by the flash unit integrated in the camera. External flash units are not supported by this function.

4. Flash photography for advanced amateur and professional photographers

4.1 Symbols in camera viewfinder or

monitor

Symbols in viewfinder:

Meaning:

Flash readiness indication:

Flash symbol lights constantly: The mecablitz is ready for firing. A flash is fired when the camera’s shutter release is pressed. Correct exposure confirmation: Symbol flashes after shooting: The picture was correctly exposed.

Possibility of HSS high-speed synchronisation:

Symbol lights constantly: SS high-speed synchronisation is

possible with the mecablitz 54 MZ-....

Symbol lights constantly: The Minolta wireless TTL remote mode is activated.

Symbol flashes: The existing shooting situation requires the use of flash.

The symbols indicated in your camera’s view-

☞

finder or monitor may deviate from those given in the above table, since some symbols are only possible on specific cameras. For more details please refer to the operating instructions of your camera.

4.2 Correct exposure confirmation on the mecablitz

The exposure “o.k.” symbol lights up for about 2 seconds to confirm correct exposure.in the modes TTL, EM (= Easy Mode; only on 40 MZ-..., 50 MZ-5) and A of the mecablitz.

In the auto flash mode A, the correct exposure

☞

confirmation on the mecablitz is relevant and not the information in the camera viewfinder.

Some flash units (mecablitz 40 MZ-2, 40 MZ-3, 40 MZ-3i, 50 MZ-5, 54 MZ-.., 70 MZ-5, 76 MZ-5 digi) supplement the visual indication by an acoustic signal (bleep). For further details please refer to the operating instructions of the given mecablitz.

When using a Dimage A1, A2, 5, 7, 7i, 7Hi digi-

☞

tal camera in the TTL preflash mode or in the ADI flash control mode, correct exposure confirmation will - for system inherent reasons only be possible with the mecablitz 40 MZ-... , 44 MZ-2, 45 CL-4 digi, 50 MZ-5, 54 MZ-... ,70 MZ-... and 76 MZ-5 digi.

4.3 Automatic flash synch speed control

As soon as flash readiness is reached the camera automatically switches to flash synch speed (which depends on the type of camera). Depending on the operating mode selected on the camera, slower shutter speeds are retained.

Shutter speeds faster than the camera’s synch speed are possible with the mecablitz 45 CL-4 digi, 54 MZ-... in the TTL and manual HSS flash mode (see Section 4.13).

Table 3: Overview of the fastest flash synch speeds

of Minolta AF cameras

1/60 s 1/90 s 1/100 s 1/125 s 1/200 s 1/250 s 1/300 s

Dynax 9, 9xi

9000 AF, Vectis S-1

Dynax 7, 7xi, 800si, 700si, 650si, 600si, 8000i

Dynax 505si, 505si super, 7000i

7000AF, 5000AF

Dynax 500si, 500si super, 404si, 303si, 5xi, 3xi, 2xi, SPxi, 5000i, 4

Dynax 3000i

●

Some cameras also select slower shutter

☞

speeds to match the ambient light situation and the focal length of the lens used. For more details please refer to the camera manual.

There is no automatic flash synch speed control

with the digital cameras Dimage .... These cameras

permit flash operation at all shutter speeds. Do not use shutter speeds faster than 1/125 sec. if the photographic situation requires the full light output of the mecablitz.

4.4 Slow synchronisation

Various Minolta cameras feature a slow synch function for flash operation. It permits the background to be properly exposed when the ambient light level is low.This is achieved by adapting the camera’s shutter speed to the existing lighting conditions when speeds are used that are slower than the camera’s synch speed. Slow synchronisation is activated on the camera by pressing the “SPOT” or “AEL” key. For more details please refer to the operating instructions for the camera.

ip:

To be on the safe side, use a tripod in this operating mode to prevent camera shake due to slow shutter speeds.

4.5 Triggering control

The camera prevents the triggering of a flash if the ambient light level is sufficient for an exposure in the normal mode. The exposure is then completed with the shutter speed given in the display or viewfinder of the camera. The triggering control is activated when the flash-ready signal in the camera viewfinder is extinguished. In this event no flash is fired when the camera’s shutter is tripped.

On various cameras the triggering control only works in the “P” mode and the shutter priority mode “S” (see operating instructions for the camera). The triggering control can be deactivated on some camera models: To do so, press and hold down the flash button on the camera (see operating instructions for the given camera). The flash ready signal will again be displayed in the camera’s viewfinder when the shutter release is lightly touched. The camera selects a suitable shutter speed/aperture combination and a flash is fired when a picture is shot.

On the Dynax 800si, the triggering control fea-

☞

ture is activated by the individual function “5” (see operating instructions for the camera). When a Dynax 7 camera is used, triggering control is only possible in the camera’s Full Auto Mode (green P symbol).

Triggering control is not supported by the digi-

☞

tal cameras Dimage A1, A2, 5, 7, 7i, 7Hi .

4.6 TTL flash control

This is an automatic flash mode in which the flash exposure is measured by a sensor inside the camera. This sensor measures the light that reaches the film through the lens and is reflected off the film plane. When the necessary amount of light for a correct exposure has been obtained the camera sends a signal to the flash unit which causes the flash to be instantly cut off. Any attachments and filters that may be used on the lens are automatically taken into account for TTL flash control. TTL flash control is supported by all operating

modes of the camera, such as Full Auto Mode, Program “P”, A, S, M and Subject Program Modes (Portrait, Depth of Field, Landscape, Sports, Closeups, etc.).

The mecablitz 40 MZ-... and 50 MZ-5 also per-

☞

mit partial light output levels to be set (see operating instructions of the given mecablitz).

The digital cameras Dimage A1, A2, 5, 7, 7i,

☞

7Hi support the TTL preflash mode (see Section 4.18 ) and the ADI flash control (see Section 4.19). Both are modern variants of TTL flash operation. The normal standard TTL flash mode is not supported by these cameras.

Full Auto Mode, Program P and Subject Program Modes:

(if available on the camera)

The camera preselects a shutter speed/aperture combination in conformity with the existing lighting conditions. The shutter speed selected by the camera lies between 1/60 sec. and 1/250 sec. depending on the camera type and the prevailing ambient light situation (for the synch speed range please refer to the camera’s operating instructions). Shutter speeds faster than its fastest flash synch speed are not set by the camera. TTL flash exposure and TTL fill-in flash are fully automatically controlled by the camera.

Camera mode “S” (shutter priority):

(if available on the camera)

In the camera mode “S” any shutter speed can be set on the camera. If the selected shutter speed is

faster than the camera’s fastest synch speed, then the camera will automatically set the fastest possible flash synch speed when the shutter release is touched (see Section 4.3 or refer to the operating instructions for the camera). If the selected shutter speed is slower than the flash synch speed, then this shutter speed will be retained.

Depending on the specific camera type, a warning signal can light up in the viewfinder when the camera’s shutter speed/aperture setting range is exceeded; please refer to the operating instructions for the given camera.

Camera mode “A” (aperture priority):

(if available on the camera)

Iin the “A” camera mode an aperture can be preselected on the camera. The camera will then adjust a shutter speed that matches the ambient light conditions. If the shutter speed is faster than the camera’s fastest synch speed, then the camera will automatically set the fastest possible flash synch speed when the shutter release is touched. When selecting the aperture ensure that the subject lies within the working range (distance) of the flash unit (see aperture calculator or LC display of the mecablitz).

Depending on the specific camera type a warning signal may light up in the viewfinder when the camera’s shutter speed/aperture setting range is exceeded ; please refer to the operating instructions for the given camera.

Camera mode “M” (manual exposure setting):

(if available on the camera)

An aperture and a shutter speed can be preselected on the camera when in “M” mode. If the shutter speed is faster than the camera’s fastest synch speed, then the camera will automatically change over to the fastest possible synch speed when the shutter release is touched. When selecting the aperture ensure that the subject lies within the indicated maximum range of the flash unit. (see aperture calculator or LC display of the mecablitz).

4.7 TTL fill-in flash

When using TTL fill-in flash, the camera electronics chooses the amount of flash light required for a balanced exposure of the subject and its background. This permits shadow regions to be brightened up when taking portraits in daylight, for example. The dosage of flash light for fill-in flash control is automatically performed by the camera.

This operating mode is not indicated by an

☞

extra symbol.

Very bright ambient light may cause the camera to activate the triggering control. The camera’s triggering control must then be deactivated to enable the firing of a fillin flash. Please refer to the section “Triggering control” of this manual or to the camera’s operating instructions.

4.8 TTL flash exposure correction (manual TTL flash exposure correction)

There are certain photographic situations where the camera’s internal sensor can be deceived. This is particularly the case with a dark subject in front of a bright background (the subject will be underexposed) or a bright subject in front of a dark background (the subject will be overexposed). To overcome this problem in such a photographic situation and still achieve a correct exposure in the TTL flash mode, some cameras permit the flash intensity to be influenced in the TTL and TTL fill-in flash modes (also see operating instructions for the given camera). On flash units with an LC display (40 MZ-..., 44 MZ-2, 50 MZ-..., 54 MZ-...,

70 MZ-.... and 76 MZ-5 digi) the indicated maxi-

mum flash range is adapted to the selected flash exposure correction in the TTL and A modes.

Manual TTL flash exposure correction is possible with the following cameras: Dynax 9, 7, 800si, 700si, 600si and is set on the camera. The setting procedure for a manual TTL flash exposure correction is described in the user’s manual of the given camera.

With the digital cameras Dimage 5, 7, 7i, 7Hi, flash exposure correction is set on the camera (see user’s manual).

4.9 AF measuring beam control

The AF measuring beam is activated by the camera electronics when the ambient lighting conditions are insufficient for automatic focusing. The AF

beam projects a striped pattern on to the subject, and the camera uses this pattern to focus automatically. The AF beam has a range of approx. 9 m (with a 50 mm f/1.7 standard lens).

When using a Dynax 9 camera, either the came-

☞

ra-integrated AF illuminator will be activated or the AF measuring beam of the mecablitz, depending on the existing ambient light. The digital cameras measuring beam of the mecablitz.

To enable activation of the AF measuring

☞

beam, the camera lens must be set to AF. Lowspeed zoom lenses can significantly curtail the range of the AF measuring beam. The striped pattern of the AF measuring beam only supports the central AF sensor of the camera. In specific situations, some cameras activate their own AF illuminator.

For cameras with several AF metering zones, we recommend to activate only the central zone (see operating instructions for the given camera). If a decentral AF sensor is manually selected by the photographer or autonomously by the camera, then the AF measuring beam of the mecablitz may not be activated. In this instance some cameras use the AF illuminator integrated in the camera for the measuring function (see operating instructions for the camera).

Dimage ...

do not support the AF

mecablitz 45 CL-4 and 60 CT-4

These flash units of the SCA 300 system are connected to the SCA 3302 adapter with the SCA

3000C converter cable (optional extra). The AF red light emitter integrated in the SCA 3000C takes over the AF measuring beam function.

mecablitz 32 Z-2, 32 MZ-3, 40 MZ-... in conjunction with “Power Grip G-16”

The above flash units can be converted into a handle-mount flashgun with the Power Grip G-16 (optional extra). The Power Grip G-16 is then connected to the SCA 3302 adapter with the SCA 3000A connecting cable (optional extra). The AF red light emitter integrated in the SCA 3000A takes over the AF measuring beam function.

mecablitz 32MZ-3, 40MZ-..., 44MZ-2, 50MZ-5, 54MZ-... and 70MZ-... with the "SCA3008A" connecting cable

If necessary, the above flash units can be used offcamera in conjunction with the SCA 3008A connecting cable (optional extra). In this case the AF red-light illuminator integrated in the connecting cable case takes over the function of the AF measuring beam.

4.10 Motor zoom control (Auto Zoom)

The reflector’s flash coverage is automatically adapted to the focal length of the camera lens. This is only possible with flash units featuring a motorzoom reflector, such as mecablitz 32 MZ-3,

40 MZ-..., 44 MZ-2, 50 MZ-5, 54 MZ-..., 70 MZ-....,

76 MZ-5 digi.

mecablitz 40 MZ-..., 44 MZ-2, 50 MZ-5, 54 MZ-..., 70 MZ-..., 76 MZ-5 digi

After the flash unit has been switched on, the Auto

Zoom Mode is automatically set if the camera is on and activated by lightly touching the shutter release.

mecablitz 32 MZ-3

The setting slide  for the zoom reflector on the mecablitz must be adjusted to position “CZ”.

In cases where the motor zoom reflector of the

☞

mecablitz is automatically controlled by the digital cameras Dimage ..., the focal length position of the reflector can deviate from the focal length set on the lens. This is because the camera adjusts the reflector so that the flash coverage is larger than necessary in order to guarantee a complete illumination of the picture. Manual setting of the reflector’s focal length is not necessary.

4.11 Maximum flash range indication:

Only possible with the mecablitz 40 MZ-..., 44 MZ-2, 50 MZ-5, 54 MZ-... , 70 MZ-... and 76 MZ-5 digi

The Minolta cameras transmit to the flash unit the data related to the speed of the loaded film (ISO), the aperture, the focal length of the lens and the adjusted exposure correction. The flash unit computes the corresponding maximum flash range on the basis of the transmitted camera data and its own guide number. The selected aperture and the corresponding maximum flash range are indicated on the flash unit’s LC display. For more details please refer to the operating instructions for the given mecablitz.

The maximum flash range is not indicated on

☞

the LC display when the flashgun’s reflector is

tilted or when the flashgun is in cordless Metz REMOTE mode.

Depending on the type of camera and the

☞

operating mode used, the ISO speed transmitted to the mecablitz by the camera can deviate from the speed of the loaded film. Flash exposure will nevertheless be correct. Please do not make any manual modifications. They may impair a later automatic adaptation.

4.12 2nd curtain synchronisation (REAR)

Synchronisation with the shutter’s second curtain (REAR) is particularly advantageous when shooting moving objects that have their own source of light with a slow shutter speed (slower than 1/30 second). Second-curtain synchronisation gives a more realistic impression of movement because the light streaks behind the light source instead of building up in front of it.

If second-curtain synchronisation is selected the mecablitz flash is not triggered the moment the first shutter curtain opens, but a fraction of a second before the second shutter curtain is starting. If a slow shutter speed has been chosen, or in the “bulb” mode with the corresponding aperture, the existing ambient light level permits traces of moving lights to be seen on the film (e.g. light trails left by the lights of a car). As the flash is fired right before the end of the exposure time, the moving subject is frozen at the end of the light trail. The effect thus achieved seems more natural to the perception of the eye than pictures where the flash was fired at the beginning of the exposure,

arresting the subject at the beginning of its movement and light trail.

1st curtain synchronisation

2nd curtain synchronisation

The following Minolta cameras support this function: Dynax 5, 5D, 7, 7D, 9, 800si and the digital

cameras Dimage ....

Second-curtain synchronisation (REAR mode) must be activated on the camera (see operating instructions for the given camera).

ip:

Mount the camera on a tripod for this mode to avoid camera shake with slow shutter speeds.

Do not forget to turn off this function after

☞

exposure, otherwise an unwanted slow shutter speed could result in camera shake with “normal” flash shots.

4.13 High-speed synchronisation HSS

Some Minolta cameras support HSS high-speed synchronisation.This flash mode makes it possible to take flash shots at shutter speeds faster than the camera’s flash synch speed. This mode is particularly interesting in portraiture with very bright ambient light when the depth of field is to be limited by way of a wide open lens (e.g. f/2.0)!

The mecablitz 45 CL-4 digi, 54 MZ-..., in conjunction with the SCA 3302 adapter, supports this flash mode which is indicated on the LC display of the 54 MZ-... by the letters “HSS” (= high-speed synchronisation). The HSS flash mode can be additionally activated in the TTL mode and in the manual mode M of the mecablitz.

Due to the system, using high-speed synchronisation diminishes the guide number, which in turn can significantly reduce the working range of the flashgun.

The guide number depends on the camera shutter speed.

When using high-speed synchronisation HSS, it is not possible to operate the flash with a secondary reflector!

4.13.1 Switching on the HSS flash mode

Press the “Mode” button on the mecablitz 54 MZ-.. repeatedly until “TTL” or “M” flashes on the LC dis-

play. Turn the setting disk until “HSS” is indicated on the display. Then push the setting disk in the direction of the arrow for storage. Storage will be automatic after 5 seconds if the setting disk is not pushed. “TTL” or “M” and in addition “HSS” are now indicated on the LC display of the mecablitz. In the manual mode of the mecablitz the light output can be adapted to the individual shooting situation by setting a partial light output level of P1/1 to P1/256.

The HSS flash mode can only be activated if

☞

the mecablitz is mounted on an HSS-compatible camera. The camera must be switched on and at least one exchange of data should have been completed between mecablitz and camera. For this purpose just lightly touch the camera’s shutter release without tripping the shutter (please also refer to the operating instructions for the given mecablitz).

When high-speed synchronisation is activated

☞

on the mecablitz (HSS is displayed) it will be completed only if the camera works with a manually or automatically selected shutter speed that is faster than the camera’s synch speed.

Due to physical reasons, the HSS flash mode

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significantly reduces the guide number and the maximum flash range of the mecablitz! You should therefore pay attention to the maximum flash range indicated on the LC display of the mecablitz or refer to the operating instructions and technical specifications of the flashgun.

Tip:

HSS flash control should only be used when really required.

To ensure proper operation of the internal light

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control of the mecablitz in the HSS flash mode, no filter attachments (e.g. neutral density or colour effects filters), diffusers (bouncers) etc. must be mounted in front of the reflector. The wide-angle diffuser (20 mm) integrated in the mecablitz must not be swivelled in front of the reflector. The use of attachments in the HSS flash mode may result in exposure errors. If you wish to use such attachments make sure to deactivate the HSS mode.

For system-induced reasons, it is not possible to use an external flash meter in the HSS mode.

Remember to delete this operating mode after shooting. Otherwise guide number and maximum flash range will unnecessarily be sacrificed.

4.13.2 Switching off the HSS flash mode

Press the “Mode” button on the mecablitz 54 MZ-.. repeatedly until “TTL” or “M” flashes on the LC display. Turn the setting disk until “HSS” is extinguished on the display. Then push the setting disk in the direction of the arrow for storage. Storage will be automatic after 5 seconds if the setting disk is not pushed. The LC display of the mecablitz now only indicates “TTL” or “M”.

4.14 Auto flash mode A

A sensor inside the mecablitz controls the light output in auto flash mode A. When the amount of light required for correct exposure has been reached, the electronic system of the mecablitz automatically cuts off the flash. Correct exposure confirmation “o.k” is then given on the mecablitz. For auto flash mode, the mecablitz must be set to “A”.

The mecablitz 40 MZ-... , 44 MZ-2, 50 MZ-5,

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54 MZ-... and 70 MZ-... models also permit partial light output levels to be set (please refer to the operating instructions for the individual mecablitz).

Various cameras only permit TTL flash mode.

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See operating instructions for the individual camera.

mecablitz 60 CT-4, 45 CL-4, 32 MZ-3, 32 Z-2:

Select a suitable auto aperture on the mecablitz. Make sure that the shooting distance lies within the working range of the auto aperture.

In the camera modes A (aperture priority mode) or M (manual mode) the aperture selected on the mecablitz must be manually set on the camera.

mecablitz 40 MZ-..., 50 MZ-5, 54 MZ-..., 70 MZ-... and 76 MZ-5 digi:

The flash unit automatically adjusts its auto aperture to the aperture selected on the camera. Make sure that the subject lies within the maximum flash range of the mecablitz (see LC display).

44 MZ-2, 45 CL-4 digi,

4.14.1 Manual flash exposure correction

in the auto flash mode A

The mecablitz 44 MZ-2, 54 MZ-... , 70 MZ-... and 76 MZ-5 digi permit a flash exposure correction value to be set in the auto flash mode A (refer to the operating instructions of the mecablitz for the setting procedure).

4.14.2 Auto flash mode A with digital

cameras

If a digital camera Dimage ... is used with a mecablitz that works in the auto flash mode A, a measuring preflash will not be fired before shooting the picture. Consequently, the camera will not conduct an automatic white balance with the result that the shots may be colour cast.

4.15 Manual flash mode M

In the manual flash mode M the light is not controlled by a sensor. Instead the mecablitz operates at full light output. Partial light output levels can be used with some mecablitz models (see operating instructions for the given mecablitz). For manual flash mode, the mecablitz is set to “M” (the mecablitz 32 Z-2 and 32 MZ-3 have an additional “W” setting for a partial light output).

The camera is set to mode A (aperture priority mode) or M (manual camera mode).

Various cameras only permit the TTL flash

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mode. See operating instructions for the individual camera.

mecablitz 60 CT-4, 45 CL-4, 45 CL-4 digi, 32 MZ-3, 32 Z-2

Select “M” or a partial light output on the mecablitz. Find the required working aperture using the aperture calculator on the mecablitz. Then set on the camera this working aperture or the aperture that comes closest to it.

In the camera mode M it is additionally necessary to set a shutter speed that equals or is slower than the camera’s fastest synch speed. Use a tripod for slow shutter speeds to prevent camera shake.

mecablitz 40 MZ-..., 70 MZ-..., 76 MZ-5 digi:

The camera automatically transmits the adjusted aperture to the mecablitz. Set the appropriate aperture/partial light output combination (camera / mecablitz) to determine the required flash-to-subject distance. The distance for a correct exposure is indicated on the LC display of the mecablitz and is adapted to the aperture and partial light output setting.

In the camera mode M it is additionally necessary to set a shutter speed that equals or is slower than the camera’s fastest flash synch speed. Use a tripod for slow shutter speeds to prevent camera shake.

44 MZ-2,

50 MZ-5, 54 MZ-...,

4.15.1 Manual flash mode M with digital cameras

If a digital camera blitz that works in the manual flash mode M, a measuring preflash will not be fired before shooting the picture. Consequently, the camera will not conduct

Dimage ...

is used with a meca-

an automatic white balance with the result that the shots may be colour cast.

4.16 Wireless Minolta TTL Remote Mode

Various Minolta cameras (xi-, si-series, Dynax 9 and Dynax 7, Dimage 7i, 7Hi) offer the possibility of cordless flash operation in the Wireless Minolta TTL Remote Mode. A controller mounted on the camera permits wireless remote TTL control of one or more slave flash units. The function of the controller is taken over by a Minolta flash unit 5400xi / 5400HS / 3600HS(D) / 5600HS(D), the Minolta Wireless Remote Flash Controller or the folded-out flash unit integrated in the camera. Four remote addresses (channels) can be selected to ensure that different Minolta TTL remote systems do not interfere with each other in the same room.

A certain remote camera address can only be

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set on a Minolta flash unit (see above), the Minolta Wireless Remote Flash Controller or a mecablitz 54 MZ-..., 70 MZ-... or 76 MZ-5 digi with the SCA 3302 adapter. The remote address cannot be set on the camera, nor does the camera display the remote address.

The following mecablitz models can be used as slaves together with the SCA 3302 adapter: mecablitz 40 MZ-..., 45 CL-4 digi, 50 MZ-5, 54 MZ-..., 70 MZ... and 76 MZ-5 digi.

Please note:

• The mecablitz must be in the "TTL" mode. If a Dimage 7i or 7Hi is used in conjunction with the 54MZ-..., 70MZ-... and 76 MZ-5 digi mecablitz,

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