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DPCAV ShutterBug Pro Instructions Manual

Digital camera controller

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ShutterBug Pro is a tiny accessory that helps take digital or film
camera snapshots. It is ideal for photographers that need to
remotely snap photos or require an intervalometer timer.
Despite its tiny size, it is packed with features.
FEATURE SUMMARY
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Remote shutter activation using a model hobby R/C receiver (not included).
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Standalone intervalometer operation using a flexible internal timer.
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Auto-Sequence shutter control for continuous snapshots.
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Supports two-stage (focus/snapshot) shutter operation.
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Compatible with R/C servos for mechanical shutter operation.
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Direct connect shutter interface uses safe solid state switches.
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Digital camera "keep awake" function.
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Operates on 3.3VDC to 5.4VDC (typical R/C servo voltage).
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Low current draw. 2mA idle, 35mA (plus servo) during snapshot.
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Weighs ~four grams, size 0.9" x 1.2"
WHAT IS IT?
ShutterBug Pro is a convenient accessory for expanding a camera's shutter features. It
precisely operates the focus and shutter stages upon a timed event or remote control signal. It
can even auto-repeat the shutter for a rapid series of shots. It also can be used to prevent a
digital camera from turning itself off, which is a real lifesaver in some applications.
A hobby R/C servo (not included) is used to activate the camera's shutter button. Direct wire
interfacing is possible too. For wireless remote photography, ShutterBug Pro is compatible with
many popular model hobby R/C systems.
Figure 3, Shutter Servo
ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013
S
B
HUTTER
Digital Camera Controller
The photo on the left shows a small blue servo installed on a
digital camera. In this installation the R/C servo was mounted
using double sided foam tape (so it can be removed without
damaging the camera). The servo's rotating arm is carefully
positioned above the shutter button.
Please keep in mind that each camera will be different. So
some mechanical trickery is often needed to accommodate
the servo. Just use your creativity to devise a reliable
mounting arrangement.
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Sep-15-2013

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Summary of Contents for DPCAV ShutterBug Pro

  • Page 1 Weighs ~four grams, size 0.9" x 1.2" WHAT IS IT? ShutterBug Pro is a convenient accessory for expanding a camera’s shutter features. It precisely operates the focus and shutter stages upon a timed event or remote control signal. It can even auto-repeat the shutter for a rapid series of shots. It also can be used to prevent a digital camera from turning itself off, which is a real lifesaver in some applications.
  • Page 2 It is available in all modes of operation. IRELESS REMOTE ONTROL ShutterBug Pro’s 3-wire cable can be plugged into a spare channel of a model R/C receiver (not included). Brands such as JR, Futaba, Hitec, and Airtronics are compatible.
  • Page 3: Installation

    ERVO ETHOD As mentioned, a standard R/C servo can be controlled from ShutterBug Pro’s timer feature or it can be remotely activated using a model R/C system. Servos are available from R/C model hobby shops. For example, the tiny Hitec HS-55 is low cost and a popular choice.
  • Page 4 The photo on the right shows how the two camera stages are identified on ShutterBug Pro’s circuit board. The connections must be made by soldering your custom made wiring cable to the indicated pads. Use a temperature controlled soldering iron set for delicate soldering work.
  • Page 5 4-wire method. FOC+ Focus Positive SHUT+ Shutter Positive Common Negative COM- Figure 10, 3-wire Common Positive COM+ Common Positive Focus Negative FOC- Shutter Negative SHUT- Figure 11, 3-wire Common Negative ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 5 Sep-15-2013...
  • Page 6: System Programming

    SYSTEM PROGRAMMING ShutterBug Pro’s flexibility is due to its user-programmable features. In other words, it can be configured to your special requirements. The system programming feature allows you to set the following features: Camera wake-up interval. External Trigger mode (R/C or external switch).
  • Page 7: Programming Instructions

    Once you are done with the step, just wait three seconds for the Red LED to wink once. ShutterBug Pro will then move to the next step. If desired, programming can be exited by removing power after the Red LED winks, which will leave the remaining values unchanged.
  • Page 8 ROGRAMMING Programming begins by holding down the pushbutton switch while you apply power to ShutterBug Pro. Continue to press the switch until the Red LED is on. When you are ready start programming, release the switch. Now the fun begins! Ž...
  • Page 9 This entry configures the focus dwell time. One press will disable Focus (Stage-2) operation. Beyond that, each press is one-half second, with a maximum of ten seconds (twenty presses). For example, to set a 1.5 second focus time, press three times. ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 9 Sep-15-2013...
  • Page 10 External Trigger Mode Range: 1= R/C Signal, 2= External Switch. This entry configures ShutterBug Pro for the type of external snapshot trigger you need. For example, if you will be using it with an R/C receiver, press once for “R/C Signal.”...
  • Page 11: Led Status Indicators

    R/C servo signal is restored. Note: This applies only to the R/C trigger mode. During a snapshot, the Yellow LED will operate as follows: Rapid Flash = Stage-1 (Focus) active. Solid Yellow = Stage-2 (Shutter) active. Copyright by Digital Products Company, 2007 ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 11 Sep-15-2013...
  • Page 12 WHEN SERVICE IS NEEDED DURING THE WARRANTY PERIOD: 1. Contact DPC using the “contact us” link instructions found at www.dpcav.com. Please provide the model name, serial number, purchase date, and specific details to the problem. If DPC determines that service is required, they will issue a Return Authorization (RA) number and they will request that you return the unit.
  • Page 13 UESTIONS Q: I want to use four 1.5V rated alkaline batteries to operate ShutterBug Pro. But that will give me six volts, which I understand is too high. Will I be OK? Also, how long do you think they will last during use? A: Don’t use four alkaline cells since the voltage will indeed be too high with a fresh set.
  • Page 15 Programming Summary...
  • Page 16 SHUTTERBUG PRO MENU SUMMARY Ž Camera Wake-up/Stand alone Intervals: 0=Skip, 1=Off, 2-120. ŽŽ Wake-up/Standalone Interval Units: 0=Skip, 1= Sec, 2=Sec10X, 3=Min, 4=Hr. ŽŽŽ Shutter Repeat Interval: 0=Skip, 1-30 seconds (one second per press). ŽŽŽŽ Shutter Dwell Time: 0=skip, 1=0.5S, 2=1S, 3=1.5S, ... 20=10Sec (500mS per press).