Nikon autofocus speedlight SB-80DX User Manual
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Nikon autofocus speedlight SB-80DX User Manual

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Autofocus Speedlight
SB-80DX
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Instruction Manual

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Summary of Contents for Nikon autofocus speedlight SB-80DX

  • Page 1 Autofocus Speedlight SB-80DX Instruction Manual...

  • Page 2: Foreword

    (p. 12). Note • The Nikon N90s, N90, N70, N60, N55, N50, N8008‚ N8008s, PRONEA 6i, N6006, N6000, N5005, N4004‚ and N4004s are sold exclusively in the U.S.A. • The Nikon N80-Series, N65-Series are sold exclusively in the U.S.A. and Central and South America.

  • Page 3: Tips On Using The Speedlight

    Nikon recommends that you have your Speedlight serviced by an authorized dealer or service center at least once every two years. Using your Speedlight correctly The Nikon Speedlight SB-80DX’s performance has been optimized for use with Nikon brand cameras/accessories including lenses. Camera/accessories made by other manufacturers may not meet Nikon’s criteria for specifications, and nonconforming cameras/accessories could damage the SB-80DX’s components.

  • Page 4: Camera Groups And Available Flash Modes

    Camera groups and available flash modes In this manual, Nikon SLR cameras are divided into eight groups (I to VII, and Digital SLRs) unless otherwise noted. First consult the camera group table to see which group your camera belongs to. Then as you read the manual, you will find specific information on how to use the SB-80DX with your particular camera.
  • Page 5 – – Digital SLRs The SB-80DX’s available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the camera’s exposure mode and metering system. Refer to “Detailed operation” (p. 33) and your camera’s instruction manual. : Available – : Not available...

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Lenses .................14 Basic operation 1 Installing batteries.............16 2 Test firing..............18 3 Attach the SB-80DX to the camera and adjust the flash head............20 4 Setting the ISO sensitivity.........22 5 Adjusting the zoom-head position ......24 6 Setting the camera’s exposure mode and metering system ............26...
  • Page 7 Multiple flash shooting using cords......76 System chart for TTL multiple flash ......80 Advanced operation Wireless multiple flash shooting ........82 Advanced information on each function of the SB-80DX is provided. Reference information Optional accessories ...........92 Technical operation/Effective Tips on Speedlight care ..........95 Speedlight placement Notes on batteries............96...

  • Page 8: Speedlight Parts

    (p. 94) rotated horizontally 180° to the left and 90° to Allows connection of a power cord to the the right. SB-80DX’s external power source terminal (supplied with a cover). 3 Flash head tilting/rotating lock release button (p. 20) 10 Light sensor window for Non-TTL auto flash (p.
  • Page 9 SB-80DX fires at its maximum output in Wireless slave flash cancel various auto flash modes, indicating that button (p. 85) The SB-80DX will not fire, while this button the light may be insufficient. is pressed. 24 Mounting foot lock lever (p. 20) 17 Flash head rotating angle scale (p.

  • Page 10: Lcd Panel

    Using the SB-80DX in dim light Press any button on the SB-80DX to turn the illuminator on (when the SB-80DX power is on), and it will stay on for approx. 16 seconds. To cancel the LCD panel illuminator, go to the Custom settings mode...

  • Page 11: Control Buttons

    Control buttons 1 h button 4 e button/f button Press to test fire the flash (p. 18). Press to increase or decrease values. 2 a button 5 c button (wide)/ d button (tele) Press to set the flash mode (p. 28). Press to change the zoom-head 3 g button position (p.

  • Page 12: Custom Settings

    Custom settings The SB-80DX can easily set, activate, or cancel various operations using the Custom settings function as shown below. Item Setting (Bold: default) Wireless flash mode* (p. 84) OFF (canceled) ON (activated) L (sound on) M (sound off) Sound monitor* in the wireless flash mode (p.
  • Page 13 2 sec. or press the b button. nEven if the LCD panel illuminator is set to OFF, the SB-80DX’s LCD panel illuminator turns on when the camera’s LCD panel illuminator is turned on. The LCD panel illuminator also lights up when the Custom settings mode is displayed.

  • Page 14: Lenses

    Lenses In this manual, Nikkor lenses are divided into two types: CPU Nikkor lenses and non-CPU Nikkor lenses. G-type Nikkor‚ D-type Nikkor‚ Non-G/D-type AF Nikkor CPU Nikkor lenses (except for AF Nikkor for the F3AF)‚ AI-P Nikkor Non-CPU Nikkor lenses AI-S Nikkor, AI Nikkor‚...

  • Page 15: Basic Operation

    Basic operation Basic operation In this section, basic procedures are clearly illustrated so that you can easily perform flash photography in the TTL/ D-TTL auto flash mode. For more details on other flash modes, refer to “Detailed operation” (p. 33).

  • Page 16: Installing Batteries

    (4) Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (rechargeable, 1.2V) n When replacing batteries, use fresh batteries of the same brand. n High-power manganese batteries are not recommended for use with the SB-80DX. n Always carry extra batteries when traveling. n Refer to “Notes on batteries” on page 96.
  • Page 17 SB-80DX is turned off. In this case, replace the SB-80DX’s batteries even if an external battery source is used.

  • Page 18: Test Firing

    When test firing the Speedlight, never position your eyes close to the flash head. m The SB-80DX fires at specified output in the Manual flash mode or at approx. 1/16 output in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode. m In the Non-TTL auto flash/Auto Aperture flash modes, the SB-80DX fires at a flash output controlled by the ISO sensitivity, aperture, and zoom-head position.
  • Page 19 If the SB-80DX and the camera are not used for approx. 40 seconds, the standby function activates and automatically turns the SB-80DX off to conserve battery power (standby-off state). nOnly the R indicator appears on the LCD panel in the standby-off state.

  • Page 20: The Flash Head

    Attach the SB-80DX to the camera and Make sure the SB-80DX and the camera body are turned off. Rotate the mounting foot lock lever to the left, slide the SB-80DX’s mounting foot into the camera’s accessory shoe and turn the lock lever to the right.

  • Page 21: Adjust The Flash Head

    Camera group/camera name Possible cause Cameras in Groups I to VI In the TTL auto flash mode, the SB-80DX is not properly (except F70-Series/N70) attached to the camera body. Cameras in Groups V and VI...

  • Page 22: Setting The Iso Sensitivity

    Digital data communication with the SB-80DX When the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups I and II, and Nikon Digital SLRs cameras, digital data communication is performed. The camera automatically sends the ISO sensitivity to the SB-80DX. With a CPU...
  • Page 23 ISO sensitivity range may become narrower, depending on the cameras in use. For details, see your camera instruction manual. nThe flash shooting distance range on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel varies, depending on the ISO sensitivity. Therefore, be sure to set the ISO sensitivity correctly.

  • Page 24: Adjusting The Zoom-Head Position

    (p. 45). lThe power zoom function m When the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups I, II, or Nikon Digital SLRs, in combination with a CPU lens, the power zoom function activates and the zoom head is automatically adjusted.
  • Page 25 14mm when the Nikon Diffusion Dome is attached. nWhen using a 14mm or 17mm lens or the Nikon Diffusion Dome, the distance between the camera and subject becomes increasingly pronounced from the center of the frame...

  • Page 26: Setting The Camera's Exposure Mode And Metering System

    The camera’s available exposure mode and metering system vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the SB-80DX’s flash modes. For details, refer to “Detailed operation” (p. 33) and your camera’s instruction manual.
  • Page 27 SB-80DX is turned on. This is true of all cameras, except mechanical shutter cameras.

  • Page 28: Setting The Sb-80Dx's Flash Mode

    MODE button. nThe SB-80DX’s available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the camera’s exposure mode and metering system. Refer to “Detailed operation”...
  • Page 29 SB-80DX’s flash shooting distance range is 0.6m to 20m (2 to 66 ft.) and varies, depending on the ISO sensitivity, zoom-head position and lens aperture in use. Flash shooting distance range in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash modes...

  • Page 30: Compose The Picture And Shoot With Flash

    Front-curtain sync. Compose the picture, confirm that the ready- light on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel or in the camera’s viewfinder is on, then shoot. lSet the camera’s flash sync mode to Front-curtain sync.
  • Page 31 3 sec. Depending on the camera in use, the ready-light on the SB-80DX or in the camera’s viewfinder lights up. To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot.

  • Page 32: Using The Sb-80Dx With The Coolpix

    COOLPIX 5000, attach the Speedlight directly to the accessory shoe. Please note that wireless multiple flash using the COOLPIX’s built-in flash as a master flash unit and the SB-80DX as a slave flash unit cannot be performed.

  • Page 33: Detailed Operation

    Detailed operation Detailed operation This section provides a variety of flash modes available with the SB-80DX. Be sure to refer to your camera’s instruction manual for specific information on camera settings and functions.

  • Page 34: Sb-80Dx Available Flash Modes

    Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor for Digital SLRs in D-TTL auto flash). 3 The TTL auto flash mode for Nikon Digital SLRs is called the D-TTL auto flash mode. 4 In the D-TTL auto flash mode, Monitor Preflashes are fired at all times.

  • Page 35: Ttl/D-Ttl Auto Flash Mode

    D-TTL auto flash to determine the condition of the subject. After you press the shutter release button and just before the shutter opens, the SB-80DX fires a series of imperceptible preflashes that are detected by the camera’s TTL Multi-Sensor and analyzed for brightness and contrast. (Please note that Monitor Preflashes are fired instantaneously and cannot be differentiated from the main flash.)

  • Page 36: Usable Cameras Compatible With The Ttl/D-Ttl Auto Flash Mode

    Usable cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL The available types of TTL/D-TTL auto flash vary, depending on the camera/lens/exposure mode/metering system being used. For details, see the tables on the following pages. n Refer to your camera’s instruction manual for specific information on camera settings and functions.
  • Page 37 CPU lens (except for G-type) Non-CPU lens 1: Only D appears on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash or Center- Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash is selected when F appears on the camera’s LCD panel. 2: Center-Weighted Metering is automatically set when the exposure mode is set to M.
  • Page 38 3: Optional TTL Unit Coupler AS-17 is required. Digital data communication with the SB-80DX When the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups I and II, and Nikon Digital SLRs cameras listed in the table above, digital data communication is...
  • Page 39 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync mode (F5 only) m The farthest flash shooting distance cannot be read on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel. In this case, use the guide number table and equation for calculating this distance, according to each zoom-head position.

  • Page 40: Non-Ttl Auto Flash Mode

    The SB-80DX’s built-in sensor measures the flash illumination reflected back from the subject, automatically controlling the SB-80DX’s light output to give the correct exposure. This allows you to make exposure compensation (p. 56) easily by varying the aperture set on the camera or lens.
  • Page 41 0.6-0.8/ 0.6-1.0/ 0.6-1.1/ 0.6-1.2/ 0.6-2.0/ 0.6-2.1/ 0.6-2.4/ 0.6-2.8/ 0.6-3.2/ 0.6-3.4/ 0.6-3.6/ 2.0-2.6 2.0-3.3 2.0-3.5 2.0-3.9 2.0-6.6 2.0-7.0 2.0-7.8 2.0-9.3 2.0-10 2.0-11 2.0-12 1 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached and the wide-flash adapter in place 2 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached...

  • Page 42: Auto Aperture Flash Mode

    Usable cameras and lenses Digital SLRs + CPU lenses In addition to Non-TTL auto flash (p. 40), the SB-80DX’s built-in sensor correctly controls the flash output in combination with data automatically transmitted from the camera and lens to the SB-80DX, including the ISO sensitivity value, aperture, focal length, and exposure compensation value.
  • Page 43 0.6-0.8/ 0.6-1.0/ 0.6-1.1/ 0.6-1.2/ 0.6-2.0/ 0.6-2.1/ 0.6-2.4/ 0.6-2.8/ 0.6-3.2/ 0.6-3.4/ 0.6-3.6/ 2.0-2.6 2.0-3.3 2.0-3.5 2.0-3.9 2.0-6.6 2.0-7.0 2.0-7.8 2.0-9.3 2.0-10 2.0-11 2.0-12 1 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached and the wide-flash adapter in place 2 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached...

  • Page 44: Manual Mode

    Manual ÉG mode In this mode, the flash always fires at a specified output. The SB-80DX features three types of manual modes. Types Usable camera Manual flash No limitation Repeating flash No limitation FP High-Speed Flash sync F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, D1-Series m You can calculate the correct aperture by using the guide number table and the shooting distance.
  • Page 45 ISO sensitivity and flash output level that are set: f/stop (aperture) = Guide number (GN) x ISO sensitivity factor ÷ Shooting distance (m/ft) n Set the same aperture on both the SB-80DX and the camera or lens. To calculate the guide number n Calculate the guide number by using this equation, according to the shooting distance and aperture required.
  • Page 46 Set the same aperture on your camera or lens that is set on the SB-80DX. nFor cameras in Groups I and II, and Digital SLRs cameras with CPU lenses, set the SB-80DX’s aperture on the camera (p. 4).
  • Page 47 FP High-Speed Flash sync (p. 51). This indicator appears only when the SB-80DX is used in combination with cameras compatible with FP High-Speed Flash sync. nTo extend the flash shooting distance, choose a flash output level close to M1/1.
  • Page 48 Manual G mode lRepeating flash mode m In the Repeating Flash mode, the SB-80DX fires repeatedly during a single exposure, creating stroboscopic multiple-exposure effects. This mode is useful when shooting fast-moving subjects. nIn the Repeating flash mode, use fresh or fully charged batteries. Also allow enough time for the flash to recycle between each repeating flash.
  • Page 49 Set the camera’s exposure mode to Manual (M). Press the a button to set the flash mode to the H Repeating Flash mode. Press the g button and the flash output level starts blinking. Press the e or f button to increase or decrease the values.
  • Page 50 Set the same aperture on the camera or lens that is set on the SB-80DX. nFor cameras in Groups I and II, and Digital SLRs cameras with CPU lenses, set the SB-80DX’s aperture on the camera (p. 4). Set the shutter speed.
  • Page 51 (p. 72) or Nikon Diffusion Dome (p. 69). When the wide-flash adapter is used, the zoom-head position and K indicator blink on the LCD panel as a warning.
  • Page 52 “Setting the flash output level” on page 47. nFor cameras in Groups I and II, and Digital SLRs cameras with CPU lenses, set the SB-80DX’s aperture on the camera (p. 4). nIf ISO sensitivity is correctly set, the flash shooting distance appears on the LCD panel to match to the flash output level and aperture as set.

  • Page 53: Notes On Continuous Flash Shooting

    Notes on continuous flash shooting lMaximum number of continuous firings m It is recommended to allow the SB-80DX to cool off for at least 10 minutes after the maximum number of continuous firings as shown in this table: Max. no. of continuous firings Max.

  • Page 54: Checking The Correct Exposure Before Shooting

    Press the SB-80DX’s MODE button until “A” (Non-TTL auto flash) appears on the LCD panel. Set the same aperture on the SB-80DX as set in the TTL auto flash mode. Press the h button to fire the flash. If the ready-light blinks after firing, this indicates the light may have been insufficient for correct exposure.

  • Page 55: Advanced Operation

    Advanced operation Advanced operation In this section advanced information on each function of the SB-80DX’s is provided.

  • Page 56: Exposure Compensation And Flash Output Level Compensation

    Exposure compensation on the SB-80DX can be performed in the following ways: Exposure compensation Available flash mode...
  • Page 57 In the Non-TTL auto flash mode, the correct exposure can be obtained when the same aperture is set on the camera as that set on the SB-80DX. Therefore, to make exposure compensation, vary the aperture set on the camera while retaining the aperture set on the SB-80DX or vice versa.
  • Page 58 SB-80DX. For details, see your camera’s instruction manual. If you use both controls, the exposure is modified by the sum total of both compensation values. In this case, the SB-80DX’s LCD panel shows only the compensation value set on the...

  • Page 59: The Flash Shooting Distance Range With Zoom Lenses Having A Variable Aperture

    LCD panel or in the viewfinder. The aperture value displayed in the aperture- direct-readout scale as seen in the viewfinder of the Nikon F5 or other cameras is fixed and not automatically compensated.

  • Page 60: Slow-Sync Flash Mode/Red-Eye Reduction Control

    In this mode, red-eye reduction is combined with slow sync. m Available with cameras having red-eye reduction with slow-sync. You cannot set this mode on the SB-80DX directly. Set it on the camera. For more information, refer to your camera’s instruction manual.

  • Page 61: Rear-Curtain Sync And Modeling Illumination

    (for example, the taillights of a car) appears behind the subject and not in front. m Available with cameras providing rear-curtain sync. You cannot set this mode on the SB-80DX directly. Set it on the camera. For details, see your camera’s instruction manual.

  • Page 62: Autofocus Flash Operation In Dim Light

    Autofocus flash operation in dim light Usable cameras and lenses Cameras with autofocus function + autofocus lens When the light is too dim for normal autofocus operation, the SB-80DX’s AF-Assist Illuminator enables you to perform autofocus flash photography in dim light.
  • Page 63 Speedlight nEven when the camera’s AF-Assist Illuminator is set to activate, the SB-80DX’s AF-Assist Illuminator is given priority and the camera’s AF-Assist illuminator does not light up. (The camera’s AF-Assist Illuminator lights up when the SB-80DX’s AF-Assist Illuminator is canceled.)

  • Page 65: Technical Operation/Effective Speedlight Placement

    Technical operation/ Technical operation/ Effective Speedlight Effective Speedlight placement placement In this section, information on a variety of photographic techniques such as bounce and close-up flash is provided, explaining how to create flash pictures with softer shadows. We also present the recommended position of Speedlights in wireless multiple flash photography or when attached with cords.

  • Page 66: Bounce Flash Operation

    (For taking pictures without Tilt or rotate the flash head to bounce the light off the ceiling or walls to soften shadows and create more natural-looking portraits indoors. Even softer shadows are possible when using the Nikon Diffusion Dome. Bounce flash...
  • Page 67 SB-80DX blinks for approx. 3 sec. To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot.
  • Page 68 Non-TTL auto flash mode, set the same aperture on the SB-80DX. lSetting the flash head m The SB-80DX’s flash head tilts or rotates by holding down the flash head tilting/rotating lock release button as shown in the illustrations. Adjust the flash head, depending on the shooing environment or your creative preferences.
  • Page 69 90° to use this function most effectively. lShooting with the Nikon Diffusion Dome m Use of the provided Nikon Diffusion Dome diffuses the light from the flash much more than with normal bounce flash, allowing you to soften the light from the flash and eliminate shadows.

  • Page 70: Close-Up Flash Operation

    With the built-in wide-flash adapter attached to the SB-80DX, close-up flash shooting can be performed. The built-in wide-flash adapter diffuses the light from the flash to soften shadows. When the SB-80DX is used off-camera, you can take more natural-looking close-up pictures.
  • Page 71 Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). Set the camera’s metering system to Matrix Metering Y or Center-Weighted Metering W. Set the SB-80DX’s flash mode to TTL or D-TTL auto flash. Position the built-in wide-flash adapter over the flash head. Press the c or d button to adjust the zoom-head position to 14mm or 17mm.
  • Page 72 Close-up flash operation lSetting the built-in wide-flash adapter and adjusting the zoom-head position Slowly pull out the wide-flash adapter all the way, and position it over the flash head. Then slide the bounce card back into place inside the flash head.
  • Page 73 In this case, position the camera (A) and the SB-80DX (B) at equal distances from the subject. nFor F5 cameras with the High-Magnification Finder DW-30 or DW-31, or F4 cameras with the High-Magnification Finder DW-20 or DW-21, use the optional TTL Remote Cord SC-24 instead of the SC-17.

  • Page 74: Multiple Flash Operation

    Set the exposure mode to Manual. (F80-Series/N80-Series, F70-Series/N70) Multiple flash with Nikon Digital SLRs cameras m Because Monitor Preflashes are fired at all times in the D-TTL auto flash mode, Digital SLRs cameras cannot be used for multiple flash shooting in this mode.
  • Page 75 Custom settings mode. m The SB-80DX’s standby function is canceled while the SB-50DX’s standby duration is prolonged to approx. one hour when they are set to the wireless slave flash mode.

  • Page 76: Multiple Flash Shooting Using Cords

    Use the TTL auto flash mode with cameras compatible with TTL auto flash. nManual flash is possible with all Nikon cameras, including Digital SLRs cameras. nUse of the SB-50DX and SB-23 as slave flash units is not recommended, because the standby function cannot be canceled.
  • Page 77 Refer to “System chart for TTL multiple flash” (p. 80). Also see the instruction manuals of your cameras, Speedlights, and accessories. nUse the optional TTL Remote Cords SC-18 or SC-19 to connect the SB-80DX to more than one slave flash unit.
  • Page 78 28 about the TTL auto flash mode. nWhen the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurred, the ready-light on the SB-80DX blinks for approx. 3 sec. To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot.
  • Page 79 Turn on the power of all flash units and set the flash mode on all units to Manual flash. nThe flash output level can be adjusted on the SB-80DX, SB-28, etc., if necessary (p. 45). nFP High-Speed Flash sync and Repeating flash are not possible.

  • Page 80: System Chart For Ttl Multiple Flash

    SB-22 SB-22s SB-23 SB-27 SB-30 SB-50DX F4-Series (with DA-20/DP-20) F65-Series/N65-Series F-801s/N8008s F-801/N8008 Pronea 600i/6i SB-16B SB-24 SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/28DX SB-29/29s SB-80DX Group III SC-17 F-601/N6006, F-601 /N6000 Group IV F60-Series/N60 F50-Series/N50 F-401 /N5005 SB-16A SB-17 SB-21A Group V F-501/N2020, F-401...
  • Page 81 Slave flash unit SB-29/29s SB-16B SB-24 SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/28DX SB-80DX AS-10 SB-14 SB-11 SB-140 SC-23 SC-18 SC-18 AS-10 SC-19 (1.5m) SB-15 SB-20 SB-21B SB-22 SB-22s SB-27 SB-30 SC-19 (3m) SB-29/29s SB-16B SB-26 SB-28/28DX SB-80DX SB-24 SB-25 AS-10 SB-16A SB-21A SB-17...

  • Page 82: Wireless Multiple Flash Shooting

    Shooting data nCamera: F100 (1/250 sec., f/8) nFocal length: 50mm nMaster flash unit : SB-80DX set to SC-17 Standard TTL flash nSlave flash unit : SB-80DX set to Auto wireless slave flash mode...
  • Page 83 Shooting data nCamera: F100 (1/125 sec, f/5.6 + 1/2) nFocal length: 40mm nMaster flash unit : SB-80DX set to Standard TTL flash nSlave flash units : Three SB-80DX units set to Auto wireless slave flash Notes on setting the slave flash units.
  • Page 84 O indicator appears on the LCD panel, showing that the SB-80DX can be used as a wireless master flash unit. When the flash unit is detached as it is, the indicator automatically changes to P or P and you can use the SB-80DX as a wireless slave flash unit.
  • Page 85 The SB-80DX, when set as a wireless master flash unit, can be used as a normal flash unit, but Monitor Preflashes will not fire even if Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor is selected. m Use of a wireless master flash unit set to the TTL auto flash mode is recommended.
  • Page 86 Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). Set up all Speedlights as master and slave flash units. Set all SB-80DX units (used as the master and slave flash units) to the Wireless flash mode. Press the a button on the slave flash unit to activate the A (auto) mode.
  • Page 87 Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). Set up all Speedlights as the master and slave flash units. Set all SB-80DX units (used as the master and slave flash units) to the Wireless flash mode. Press the button on the slave flash unit to activate the M (manual) mode.
  • Page 88 (in meters/feet). For example, when using an ISO sensitivity of 100 and shooting a subject at a distance of 2m (6.6 ft.) with the SB-80DX’s zoom-head position adjusted to 28mm, and a lens aperture of f/4, GN = 4 x 2 = 8 (in meters) GN = 4 x 6.6 = approx.
  • Page 89 Activating and canceling the SB-80DX’s beeping sound using Custom settings m When the SB-80DX is used as a wireless slave flash unit, you can monitor its operation by listening to the beeping sound (p. 90). This function can be activated or canceled using the Custom settings.
  • Page 90 Wireless multiple flash shooting Confirming flash operation using the ready-light or beeping sound Master flash Slave flash unit unit Speedlight condition Ready-light Ready-light Beeping sound Lights up One beep Ready to fire Lights up Lights up or Two beeps Lights up or Fired properly does not does not...

  • Page 91: Reference Information

    Reference Reference information information Information on optional accessories and tips on Speedlight care are presented here. Following that are notes on batteries, troubleshooting, and the SB-80DX’s specifications.

  • Page 92: Optional Accessories

    (approx. 1 m or 3.3 ft) Sync Cords SC-11 and SC-15 are handy when you want to use the SB-80DX off-camera or for use with cameras not having accessory shoes. These cords also allow you to perform multiple flash operation in the Manual mode.
  • Page 93 (One AS-E900 Multi-Flash Adapter is included with the SK-E900) Multi-Flash Adapter AS-E900 The SB-80DX can be used as a multiple flash unit with Nikon COOLPIX 900 series digital cameras by attaching the COOLPIX to Multi-Flash Bracket unit SK-E900 and connecting the SB-80DX to the multi- flash terminal of the COOLPIX using the Multi-Flash Adapter AS-E900 (p.
  • Page 94 330 times/3.5-30 sec. 1 With AA-type alkaline-manganese batteries in the SB-80DX. 2 With the same type of batteries in both the external power source and the SB-80DX. 3 When fired at an interval of 120 seconds. nThe above data may vary due to variations in performance or whether fresh or old batteries are used.

  • Page 95: Tips On Speedlight Care

    This is not a malfunction. The display will soon return to normal. m Do not drop the SB-80DX or hit it against a hard surface, as this may damage its precision mechanisms. Do not apply strong pressure to the LCD panel.

  • Page 96: Notes On Batteries

    Batteries shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like. m Dry batteries shall not be subjected to charging. m Do not expose the SB-80DX to water as this may result in electric shock or cause the unit to catch on fire.

  • Page 97: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If a warning indication appears on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel or inside the camera’s viewfinder, use the following chart to determine the cause of the problem before you take your Speedlight to a Nikon service center for repair. Problems with the SB-80DX Ref.
  • Page 98 The wide-flash adapter may be broken off, if it receives a strong impact while set on the flash head. If it becomes broken, visit your nearest authorized Nikon service center for repair. Setting the zoom-head position when the wide-flash adapter is...
  • Page 99 Note The SB-80DX incorporates a microcomputer to control flash operations. In rare cases, the SB-80DX may not work properly even after fresh batteries are properly installed. If this happens, replace the batteries while the SB-80DX’s power is turned on.

  • Page 100: Specifications

    Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLRs Non-TTL Auto Flash Auto Aperture Flash Manual Flash Repeating Flash G+%K FP High-Speed Flash sync Settings on camera Indicator Available flash operation Red-eye reduction Rear-curtain sync Slow-sync Red-eye reduction in slow-sync * Appears on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel...
  • Page 101 0°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°; Flash head rotates horizontally 180° to the left or 90° to the right with click-stops at 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 150°, 180° n Press b button for approx. 0.5 sec. to turn SB-80DX Power ON/OFF on or off.
  • Page 102 Pack SD-8A Power Bracket Unit SK-6A Four AA-type alkaline-manganese nLights up when SB-80DX is recharged and ready to fire. Ready-light nBlinks for 3 sec. when flash fires at its maximum output, indicating light may have been insufficient (in TTL/D-TTL auto...
  • Page 103 Standby function, Selecting the distance unit (m, ft.), Canceling power zoom function, Emergency mode, and LCD panel illuminator. Built-in wide- Allows SB-80DX to be used with 14mm or 17mm lens flash adapter Dimensions Approx. 70.5 x 127.5 x 91.5mm (2.8 x 5 x 3.6 in.)

  • Page 104: Index

    Index mRefer to the Speedlight parts (p. 8) and the LCD panel (p. 10) for each part name and display indicators. Symbols D-TTL auto flash mode ....34, 35 1/300 TTL high-speed flash D-type Nikkor lenses ......14 sync mode........39 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash..35 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Exposure compensation......56 for Digital SLRs.........35...
  • Page 105 Digital SLRs.........35 Multiple flash operation .......74 Test firing ..........18 Multiple flash shooting using cords..76 TTL auto flash mode ......35 Nikon Diffusion Dome ....25, 69 Using the built-in bounce card ....69 Non-CPU lenses ........14 Non-TTL auto flash mode ....40 Warning indicators.......97 Number of flashes ......17, 48...
  • Page 106 Notes...
  • Page 108 No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORATION. FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100-8331, JAPAN...

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