Autofocus Speedlight

SB-600

SB-600 (En)

Instruction Manual

Contents

Preparation Foreword...4-6 Tips on using the Speedlight..7 Camera groups and available flash modes..8-9 Speedlight parts and their functions..10-11 Control buttons...12 Easy setting for the optimum TTL auto flash mode..13 LCD panel...14-15 Lenses...16
Basic operation...Installing the batteries..18-Test firing (Confirming the exposure)..20-Attach the SB-600 to the camera and adjust the flash head..22-Setting the cameras exposure mode and metering system..24-Setting the SB-600s flash mode..26-Compose the picture and shoot with flash.28-29 Using the SB-600 with the COOLPIX.30 Detailed operation...31
SB-600s available flash modes..32 TTL auto flash mode...33 Manual mode...34-37 Notes on continuous flash shooting.38
Other functions...39 Setting the zoom-head position..40-41 Exposure compensation and flash output-level compensation..42-44 Checking the illumination before actually taking the picture (Modeling illuminator)..45 Slow-sync flash mode, red-eye reduction control, and rear-curtain sync..46-47 Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode (for compatible cameras).48 2

Preparation

Flash Value Lock (FV Lock) (for compatible cameras)..49 Autofocus flash operation in dim light..50-51 Custom Settings...52-54
This section provides preliminary information on using the SB-600.

Advanced operations...55

Overview of multiple flash operation.56-57 Wireless multiple flash shooting.58-59 Flash shooting in Advanced Wireless Lighting.60-64 Confirming wireless multiple flash operation using the ready-light or the beeping sound.65 Multiple flash shooting using cords.66-67 System chart for TTL multiple flash shooting using cords..68-69 Bounce flash operation..70-72 Close-up flash operation..73-75 Flash shooting in the 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync mode (F5 only)..76
Basic operation Basic procedures to take simple, properly exposed flash photographs in the TTL auto flash mode. Detailed operation A variety of flash modes available with the SB-600 are explained.
Other functions Detailed information on each function of the SB-600 is provided.
Reference information..77 TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-600..78-80 Optional accessories..81-82 Tips on Speedlight care..83 Notes on handling batteries..84 Troubleshooting...85-86 Specifications..87-89 Index...90-91
Advanced operations Information on advanced flash shooting techniques using the SB-600 is described. Reference information Optional accessories, Troubleshooting, Speedlight care, Specifications, etc. are presented in this section.

Foreword

Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Speedlight SB-600. To get the most out of your Speedlight, please read this instruction manual thoroughly before use. Also, read the separate booklet, A collection of example photos, which provides an overview of the SB-600s flash-shooting capabilities with example photos. In addition, keep your camera instruction manual handy for quick reference.
Main features and functions of the SB-600
The SB-600 is a high-performance Speedlight with a guide number of 30/98 (ISO 100, m/ft.) or 42/138 (ISO 200, m/ft.) (at the 35mm zoom-head position, 20C/68F.) According to the camera and lens combination used with the SB-600, you can perform various types of TTL auto flash (p. 33) and Manual flash operations (p. 34). A power zoom function automatically adjusts the zoom-head position to match the lens focal length (with the exception of some camera/lens combinations) (p. 40). When the built-in wide-flash adapter is used, the zoom-head position is automatically set to match a 14mm lens (p. 41). The flash head can be tilted from 0 to 90 and rotated horizontally 180 to the left and 90 to the right, enabling bounce flash (p. 70) or close-up flash photography (p. 73). In wireless multiple flash photography, the SB-600 can be used as a wireless remote flash unit when the SB-600 is used with cameras compatible with Nikons Creative Lighting System (p. 5). When using bounce flash or taking close-ups with flash, you can use the built-in wide-flash adapter to create soft, diffused lighting with virtually no shadows, while maintaining balanced lighting for the main subject and the background (pp. 70, 73). Custom settings are provided to set values, or activate or cancel functions that are unnecessary to set each time (p. 52).

Camera groups and available flash modes
In this manual, Nikon SLR cameras are divided into nine groups: cameras compatible with CLS*, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS*, and cameras in Groups I to VII 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-600 with your particular camera.
* CLS: Creative Lighting System (p. 5)

Camera name

Cameras compatible with CLS* Digital SLRs not compatible with CLS* I II III IV V VI VII
D2H, D70 D1-Series, D100 F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/ N80-Series, F75-Series/N75-Series, F70-Series/N70 F4-Series, F65-Series/N65-Series, F-801s/N8008s, F-801/N8008, Pronea 600i/6i F-601/N6006, F-601M/N6000 F60-Series/N60, F50-Series/N50, F-401x/N5005 F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000 FM3A, FA, FE2, Nikonos V, F3-Series (with the AS-17) New FM2, FM10, FE10, F3-Series, F55-Series/ N55-Series
*1 o: Balanced Fill-Flash. This always appears together with D (p. 33). *2 Wireless multiple flash in the i-TTL mode is possible. (Works as a remote flash unit only.) (p. 60) *3 While performing Balanced Fill-Flash, no o indicator appears.
: Available : Not available TTL auto flash mode (p. 33)

Manual mode (p. 34)

Wireless multiple flash Advanced Wireless Lighting (works as a remote flash unit only) (p. 60) *2

*3 *3
The SB-600s available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the cameras exposure mode and metering system. For more details, refer to Detailed operation (p. 31), TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-600 (p. 78) and your cameras instruction manual.
Speedlight parts and their functions
6 Auxiliary ready-light (p. 65) Works as a ready-light when the SB-600 is used as a wireless remote flash unit. 7 Wide-area AF-assist illuminator

(p. 50)

1 Built-in wide-flash adapter (p. 74) Increases the angle of coverage to match a 14 mm lens. 2 Flash head (p. 72) Can be tilted from 0 to 90 and rotated horizontally 180 to the left and 90 to the right. 3 Flash head tilting/rotating lockrelease button (p. 22) 4 Battery chamber lid open-close index (p. 18) 5 Battery chamber lid (p. 18)
Automatically turns on for autofocus operation when the light is dim. 8 Light sensor window for wireless remote flash (p. 58) 9 External AF-assist illuminator contacts Accepts optional TTL Remote Cord SC-Mount pin 11 Hot-shoe contacts 12 Mounting foot
13 Flash head tilting-angle scale

(p. 72)

14 Flash head rotating-angle scale

15 LCD panel (p. 14)

16 Ready-light Lights up when the SB-600 is fully recycled and ready to fire. Blinks after the SB-600 fires at its maximum output in the TTL auto flash mode, indicating that the light may be insufficient. 17 Control buttons (p. 12) 18 Mounting-foot lock lever (p. 22)

Control buttons

FLASH button Press to test fire the flash (p. 20). ZOOM button Press to change the zoom-head position (p. 40). Press to adjust the settings in the Custom Settings mode (p. 52). ON/OFF button Press for approx. 0.3 second to turn the power on or off.

i button/j button

Press to increase or decrease the values. Press to choose the desired settings in the Custom Settings mode (p. 52). Press to adjust the settings when setting the remote flash unit (p. 61).

a button

Press to set the flash mode (p. 26). Press to adjust the settings in the Custom Settings mode (p. 52). Press to choose the desired settings when setting the remote flash unit (p. 61).
Two-button control function
Press two buttons simultaneously to perform the following operations. Follow the procedures shown on the flash unit.

ZOOM MODE

Recalling the underexposure value in the TTL auto flash mode Press the s and a buttons simultaneously to recall the underexposure value (p. 29). Resetting the settings to default values Press the a and b buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 seconds to reset all settings, including the custom settings, to their default settings. Button lock Press the a and j buttons simultaneously for approx. 1 second to lock the functions of the control buttons (except the b and FLASH buttons) to avoid accidental malfunction. Press the buttons again to release the lock. Switching to Custom Settings Press the s and j buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 seconds to enter the Custom Settings mode (p. 52).
Easy setting for the optimum TTL auto flash mode
Press the a and b buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 seconds to reset all settings, including the custom settings, to their default settings. Preparation
Press these buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 seconds.
While the SB-600 is used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS and cameras in Groups I to II in combination with a CPU lens, the optimum TTL auto flash mode available with that combination will be performed when you set the cameras exposure mode to Programmed Auto (P), and turn on the SB-600 to execute Resetting the settings to default values.

LCD panel

For reference, all indications are displayed in the illustration.
1 Flash mode (p. 26) 2 Wireless remote flash (p. 60) In the wireless multiple flash mode, the SB-600 is set as a remote flash unit, which fires in sync with the master flash unit. 3 Sound monitor (p. 65) When the SB-600 is set as a remote flash unit, you can monitor its operation by listening to the beeping sound. 4 Compatible with CLS* (p. 5) The SB-600 is connected to cameras compatible with CLS*. 5 Zoom-head position (p. 40) 6 Channel (p. 61) Represents the communication channel number through which the master and remote flash units exchange data in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode. 7 Auto FP High-Speed Sync (p. 48) The SB-600 automatically fires at faster shutter speeds exceeding the cameras sync shutter speed. 8 Flash output level (p. 34) 9 Flash output-level compensation

Minimum number of flashes and recycling times
Test firing (Confirming the exposure)
Press the b button for approx. 0.3 second to turn on the SB-600. Make sure the ready-light comes on.
Press the h button to test fire the flash.

Test firing

Do not test fire the Speedlight near your eyes.
The SB-600 fires at specified output in the Manual flash mode or at approx. 1/16 output in the TTL auto flash mode.

b button

Pressing the b button for approx. 0.3 second turns on the SB-600 and the indications appear on the LCD panel. Pressing the button again turns off the SB-600 and the indications disappear.
t Standby function to conserve battery power
If the SB-600 and camera are not being used, the standby function will automatically activate after 40 seconds, switching the SB-600 to standby mode to conserve battery power.
In the standby mode, the R indicator appears on the LCD panel. When used with a camera body that is compatible with the TTL auto flash mode (p. 8), the SB-600 will automatically turn off after the cameras exposure meter is switched off. When in standby mode, the SB-600 turns back on again when its b or h button is pressed or the shutter release button is lightly pressed (when using a camera body that is compatible with the TTL auto flash mode) (p. 8). The standby function does not work in the wireless flash mode, regardless of the SB-600s setting, when the Speedlight is used as a remote flash unit (p. 57). If, due to battery exhaustion, the ready-light does not come on within 60 seconds of turning on the power or after the flash has fired, the following indicator appears on the LCD panel and the SB-600 enters standby mode regardless of its setting. In this case, replace or recharge your batteries.
To avoid accidental firing or a malfunction when carrying the SB-600 in your camera bag, press the b button to turn off the flash unit, and make sure the R indicator disappears.
Setting the standby function Set the standby function in the Custom Settings mode (p. 52).

v Set the cameras flash sync mode to front-curtain sync.
With cameras featuring a rear-curtain sync flash mode, make sure the cameras flash sync mode is set to front-curtain sync.
For other flash sync modes, refer to Slow-sync flash (p. 46), Red-eye reduction with slow-sync flash mode (p. 46), or Rear-curtain sync (p. 47). Refer to the cameras instruction manual for details on the flash sync mode.
v If the ready-light blinks after shooting, the light might be insufficient for correct exposure.
When the flash has fired at its maximum output in the TTL auto flash mode and underexposure possibly occurred, the ready-lights on the SB-600 and in the cameras viewfinder blink for approx. 3 seconds. Depending on the camera in use, the ready-light on the SB-600 or in the cameras viewfinder lights up. To compensate, use a wider aperture after setting the cameras exposure mode to Aperture-Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M), or move closer to the subject and reshoot. Display of the amount of underexposure The amount of underexposure (0 to 3.0 EV) appears for approx. 3 seconds on the SB-600s LCD panel when used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS and cameras in Group I in the TTL auto flash mode. The above ready-lights will also blink at the same time.
Pressing the s and a buttons simultaneously recalls this display.
Using the SB-600 with the COOLPIX
Using the SB-600 with COOLPIX digital cameras
For COOLPIX cameras, such as the COOLPIX 5400 and 4500, that have an accessory shoe (hot-shoe) or TTL multiple flash terminal: When more powerful illumination is required or when performing multiple flash, it is recommended to connect the SB-600 or another Nikon Speedlight compatible with TTL auto flash to the COOLPIX. Auto flash operation is possible by setting the SB-600s flash mode to TTL auto flash. The flash output level is controlled by detecting signals from the camera to determine when to start and stop firing in sync with the built-in flash, which is controlled by the cameras non-TTL auto flash operation.
For connection to COOLPIX cameras with hot-shoe contacts, such as the COOLPIX 5400, attach the Speedlight directly to the accessory shoe. Optional accessories such as the Multi-Flash Bracket Unit SK-E900 should be used for connection with COOLPIX cameras that have a TTL multiple flash terminal but no hot-shoe contacts. For details, see your cameras instruction manual.

In the Manual mode, use the guide number table and the following equation to calculate the aperture, flash output level and shooting distance to obtain the correct exposure.
The guide number (GN at ISO 100; m/ft) indicates the amount of light generated by the flash. The larger the number, the greater the flash output.
Guide number (ISO 100, m/ft)
Flash output level M1/1 M1/2 M1/4 M1/8 M1/16 M1/32 M1/64 Zoom-head position (mm) 14* 14.0/45.9 9.9/32.5 7.0/23.0 4.9/16.1 3.5/11.5 2.5/8.2 1.8/5.26.0/85.3 18.4/60.4 13.0/42.7 9.2/30.2 6.5/21.3 4.6/15.1 3.3/10.28.0/91.9 19.8/65.0 14.0/45.9 9.9/32.5 7.0/23.0 4.9/16.1 3.5/11.30.0/98.4 21.2/69.6 15.0/49.2 10.6/34.8 7.5/24.6 5.3/17.4 3.8/12.36.0/118.1 25.5/83.7 18.0/59.1 12.7/41.7 9.0/29.5 6.4/21.0 4.5/14.38.0/124.7 26.9/88.3 19.0/62.3 13.4/44.0 9.5/31.2 6.7/22.0 4.8/15.40.0/131.2 28.3/92.8 20.0/65.6 14.1/46.3 10.0/32.8 7.1/23.3 5.0/16.4
* With the wide-flash adapter in place
To calculate the correct aperture Calculate the correct aperture by using this equation and the guide number table, according to the flash output level, zoom-head position and ISO sensitivity set on the camera:
f/stop (aperture) = guide number (GN) x ISO sensitivity factor Shooting distance (m/ft) Set this aperture on the camera or lens.
To calculate the guide number Calculate the guide number by using this equation, according to the shooting distance and aperture required.
Guide number (GN) = Shooting distance (m/ft) x Aperture ISO sensitivity factor Referring to the guide number table, determine an appropriate flash output level corresponding to the guide number obtained above, then set the same value on the SB-600.
ISO sensitivity factors For sensitivities other than ISO 100, multiply the guide number by the factors shown in the table below.
ISO Factors 25 x0.x0.xx1.xx2.x4

Manual G flash operation

Set the cameras exposure mode to AperturePriority Auto (A) or Manual (M).
Press the a button until G appears on the LCD panel.
Determine the flash output level and aperture to match the flash shooting distance.
For details on determining the flash output level and the aperture, refer to Determining the aperture and flash output level in the Manual mode (p. 35).
Press the i or j button to increase or decrease the values.
Refer to Setting the flash output level (p. 37).
Set the aperture on your camera or lens.
Confirm that the ready-light comes on, then shoot.
Setting the flash output level
The flash output level changes every time you press the j or i button, as shown below. When you press the j button:

The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted to match focal lengths of 24mm, 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 70mm and 85mm when the power zoom function is activated. When the lens focal length is not one of those indicated above, the zoom head adjusts to the closest wide-angle setting of the lens in use. For example, if the zoom setting of a CPU lens was between 36mm and 49mm, the zoom-head position would be adjusted to 35mm. If a small M does not appear above the ZOOM indication on the LCD panel, the zoomhead position will be automatically adjusted. If a small M appears, keep pressing the s button until it disappears.

Power zoom activated

Power zoom canceled
Setting the zoom-head position manually
When the SB-600 is used with cameras in Groups III to VII in combination with a non-CPU lens, or you want to change the zoom-head position to one that does not match the focal length, you should adjust the zoom-head position manually by pressing the s button.
A small M above the ZOOM indication appears on the LCD panel while manually setting the zoom-head position. Every time you press the s button, the zoom-head position changes as follows:
As a general rule, set the zoom-head position to the focal length of the lens in use or to the closest wide-angle setting. For example, select the 50mm setting when using a 60mm lens.
t Canceling the power zoom function using Custom Settings
The power zoom function can be canceled in the Custom Settings mode (p. 52). When the power zoom function is canceled, the zoom head can be manually adjusted, but the zoom-head position indicator does not change even if the lens is zoomed, a lens is changed or the ON/OFF button is pressed.
When the power zoom function is canceled, a small M always blinks on the LCD panel. Every time you press the s button, the zoom-head position changes as follows:
t Using the built-in wide-flash adapter
Use the built-in wide-flash adapter when a 14mm to 23mm lens is mounted (p. 74).
When using the wide-flash adapter, the zoom-head position is automatically set to 14mm and the power zoom function is deactivated. When using a 14mm or 17mm lens, the distance between the camera and subject generally differs greatly from the center of the frame to the periphery, so the peripheral area might not be sufficiently lit in some cases.
When the camera/lens combination is compatible with the power zoom function, the zoom-head position changes as follows when a 35mm lens is attached:
Exposure compensation and flash output-level
Exposure compensation allows you to take well-balanced pictures by intentionally modifying the flash exposure. This is useful when a subject of extremely high or low reflectivity is included in the scene or when you want to create flash photographs to match your creative preferences.

Some plus compensation may be necessary when the background includes a mirror, white wall or other highly reflective surface. Likewise, some minus compensation may be required when the background is dark or includes subjects of low reflectivity. Making exposure compensation for both the main subject and background, the main subject only without affecting the background, or the background only without affecting the main subject is possible, depending on the flash shooting situation.
Exposure compensation on the SB-600 can be performed in these ways:
Exposure compensation Making exposure compensation for both the main subject and background Making exposure compensation for the main subject only Available flash mode All flash modes Usable camera Cameras in all groups
Cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, and cameras in Groups I to III Cameras in all groups Cameras in all groups
Manual flash mode Making exposure compensation for the background only Flash shooting at slow shutter speeds
Making exposure compensation for both the main subject and background
In the TTL auto flash mode Use the cameras exposure compensation function to modify both the SB-600s flash output level and the background exposure. For details, see your cameras instruction manual.
The exposure compensation value set on the camera is not displayed on the SB-600s LCD panel. Exposure compensation beyond the usable ISO sensitivity range cannot be performed. For example, even if you tried to make an exposure compensation of +3 steps when using an ISO sensitivity of 100, which would change it to the equivalent of ISO 12, you would only be able to compensate a maximum of +2 steps (ISO 25) because the usable sensitivity range is ISO 25-1000.

compensation

Making exposure compensation in the Manual flash mode Exposure compensation is performed by intentionally modifying the correct aperture.
Use the guide number and shooting distance to calculate which aperture to use for the correct exposure (p. 35). Then, use a larger or smaller aperture on the camera to make exposure compensation. As a basic guide, set a wider aperture on the camera or lens to make the main subject brighter or a smaller aperture to make it darker.

Making exposure compensation for the main subject only
Other functions In the TTL auto flash mode Adjusting the SB-600s flash output level to shoot a flash-illuminated main subject without affecting the background exposure is known as flash outputlevel compensation (p. 44).
This compensation can only be performed with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, and cameras in Groups I to III.
In the Manual flash mode Making exposure compensation for only the flash-illuminated subject by intentionally modifying the SB-600s flash output level (M1/1 to M1/64).
For cameras in all groups
Making exposure compensation for the background only
Set the cameras exposure mode to Shutter-Priority Auto (S) or Manual (M), and set the shutter speed to one slower than its flash sync shutter speed.
With cameras providing slow-sync, set the cameras flash sync mode to Slow-sync (p. 46) to bring out background details in low-light situations. For details, see your cameras instruction manual.
Exposure compensation and flash output-level compensation
Flash output-level compensation
You can make exposure compensation for the flash-illuminated subject without affecting the background exposure by modifying the SB-600s flash output level.
Available in the TTL auto flash mode. Flash output-level compensation is only available with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, and cameras in Groups I to III. With F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 cameras, make flash output-level compensation on the camera. Flash output-level compensation cannot be made on the SB-600. The amount of compensation set on the camera does not appear on the SB-600s LCD panel. For details, see your camera instruction manual. With SLR cameras that have a built-in Speedlight with an exposure compensation function, you can compensate the flash output level on either the camera or the SB-600. For details, see your camera instruction manual. If you use both controls, the exposure is modified by the sum total of both compensation values. In this case, the SB-600s LCD panel shows only the compensation value set on the SB-600.
Press the i or j button to display the flash output-level compensation. The flash output-level compensation value blinks.
Press the i or j button to increase or decrease the compensation in 1/3 steps from 3.0 to +3.0 EV.
The value can be quickly changed by continuously pressing the i or j button.
v Canceling flash output-level compensation
The flash output-level compensation cannot be canceled by turning the SB-600 off. To cancel, press the i or j button to return the compensation value to 0.0.

and rear-curtain sync

Rear-curtain sync
Unnatural-looking pictures can occur when using flash to shoot fast-moving subjects at slow shutter speeds, because the subject frozen by the flash appears behind or within the blurred movement (see photo below, right). By using rear-curtain sync, however, the blur created by a moving subject, such as the taillights of a car, will appear behind the subject and not in front.
In front-curtain sync, the flash fires immediately after the front curtain opens completely; in rear-curtain sync, the flash fires just before the rear curtain starts to close. Available with cameras that have rear-curtain sync. This mode cannot be set on the SB-600; it can only be set on the camera. For more information, refer to your camera instruction manual. As slow shutter speeds are normally used for rear-curtain sync, a tripod is recommended to prevent camera shake. In multiple flash, the master flash unit can be set to either front-curtain or rear-curtain sync flash. However, the remote units cannot be set to rear-curtain sync flash (p. 56).

Rear-curtain sync

Front-curtain sync

Shooting data

Focal length: Shutter speed: Aperture: Flash mode: Flash output level: 70mm 2 sec. f/4.5 Manual M1/1
Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode (for compatible cameras)
High-Speed flash synchronization at your cameras highest shutter speed is now possible. In this mode, the Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode is automatically set when the shutter speed exceeds the cameras sync shutter speed. This is useful when you want to use a wider aperture to achieve shallow depth of field to blur the background.
Available with compatible cameras. You cannot set the Auto FP High-Speed sync mode on the SB-600 directly, but must set it on the camera. When set on the camera, the K indicator appears on the LCD panel. High-speed flash synchronization is possible exceeding your cameras sync shutter speed up to your cameras highest shutter speed. Auto FP High-Speed sync also operates in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode. Available flash modes are i-TTL and Manual flash.
Flash Value Lock (FV Lock) (for compatible cameras)
Flash Value, or FV, is the amount of flash exposure for the subject. Using FV Lock with compatible cameras, you can lock in the appropriate flash exposure for the main subject. This flash exposure remains locked in, even if you change the aperture or composition, or zoom the lens in and out.
Available with compatible cameras. You cannot set the FV Lock function on the SB-600 directly. Set it on the camera. Available flash mode is i-TTL.
Autofocus flash operation in dim light
When the light is too dim for normal autofocus operation, the SB-600s WideArea AF-Assist Illuminator enables you to perform autofocus flash photography.

Setting a group and channel number on the remote flash units
Press the a button on the remote flash unit to display the blinking channel number, then press the i or j button to set the channel number.
Be sure to choose the same channel number as set on the master flash unit.
Press the a button on the remote flash unit to display the blinking group, press the i or j button to set the group, then press the a button.
For remote flash units where the flash mode and flash output level compensation values are to be set identically, place these flash units into the same group.
v Notes on using the Nikon D70's Commander Mode
Be sure to set the channel number of the remote flash unit to 3 and set the group of the remote flash unit to Group A when performing wireless multiple flash using the Nikon D70's built-in flash as a master flash unit (Commander Mode). If you do not follow this procedure, the SB-600 does not fire.
Examples of flash shooting in Advanced Wireless Lighting
Wireless multiple flash (three flash units)

On-camera single flash

The master flash unit M illuminates the subject while the light from the remote flash unit A is bounced off the ceiling to illuminate the background and create a more natural-looking picture. Remote flash unit B is used with a colored gel filter to create the warmth feeling of a fireplace. Shooting data
Camera: D2H Focal length: 25 mm Master flash unit M: SB-800 (D, +1/3 flash output level compensation) Remote flash unit A: SB-600 (D, +1/3 flash output level compensation) Remote flash unit B: SB-600 (G, 1/16 flash output level)

Remote flash unit A

Remote flash unit B

Master flash unit M

Set the cameras exposure mode to AperturePriority Auto (A).
Set up the on-camera Speedlight with CLS.
Refer to your Speedlight instruction manual.
Set up remote flash units A and B. Turn the power on, then confirm that the ready-lights come on. Advanced operations
Use a tripod or the Speedlight Stand AS-19 for placement of the remote flash units (p. 59).
Set the remote flash units A and B to the wireless remote flash mode.
Set the channel number of the remote flash units A and B to 1.
Set the group of the remote flash units A and B.
Set the remote flash unit A to group A and the remote flash unit B to group B.
Confirm that all the ready-lights of the master and remote flash units are on, then press the h button on the master flash unit to test fire the units.

Blinks quickly and goes out repeatedly for approx. 6 sec.
High and low tone beeps alternate for approx. 6 sec.

One beep

Ready to fire
Multiple flash shooting using cords
The SB-600 can be used with Speedlights compatible with the TTL auto flash mode to perform multiple flash shooting using cords.
When using a Speedlight that has a standby function as a remote flash unit, make sure that the standby function is set to off, or select a standby duration that is long enough by using the Custom Settings. Use of the SB-50DX and SB-23 as remote flash units is not recommended, because the standby function cannot be canceled. Speedlights SB-11, SB-14, SB-140, and SB-21B cannot be used with the F-401/N4004 or F-401s/N4004s as either master or remote flash units. There is no limitation in usable cameras. With cameras compatible with CLS and digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, Manual flash operation only is possible.
Be sure to cancel the master flash units Monitor Preflashes setting
When shooting with multiple flash using cords in the TTL mode, cancel the master flash units Monitor Preflashes setting by following one of the methods described below. Monitor Preflashes can cause incorrect exposures. SB-800 SB-80DX, SB-50DX SB-800, SB-600, SB-80DX, SB-50DX, SB-28, SB-28DX, SB-27, SB-26, SB-25 Built-in Speedlight
(F80-Series/N80-Series, F75-Series/ N75-Series, F70-Series/N70)
Set the SU-4 type wireless multiple flash mode Set the wireless flash mode. Set the flash mode to Standard TTL flash. Tilt the flash head up. Use a non-CPU lens. Set the cameras exposure mode to Manual (M)
Cancel the master flash units Monitor Preflashes setting when performing SU-4 type wireless multiple flash operation using the SB-600 as a master flash unit. For details, refer to instruction manuals provided with the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 and Speedlights (such as SB-800) featuring SU-4 type multiple flash operation.
The maximum number of flash units to be connected using cords
Up to five units including the master flash unit can be used for multiple flash photography at a total cable length of 10m (33 ft.). Make sure the combined total of the coefficients in the table below for all flash units used together does not exceed 20 at 20C (68F) or 13 at 40C (104F). If it exceeds these figures, you may not be able to take a second shot after the first one. In this case, turn off the power of all flash units and reduce the total number of flash units connected. Speedlight SB-800, SB-600, SB-80DX, SB-50DX, SB-30, SB-29, SB-29s, SB-28, SB-28DX, SB-27, SB-26, SB-25, SB-24, SB-22s, SB-14, SB-11, SB-140 SB-23, SB-21, SB-17, SB-16, SB-15 SB-22 SB-20 Coefficient 6 9
Notes on multiple flash shooting using cords

Be sure to see the instruction manuals of your cameras, Speedlights, and accessories. Use the optional Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10, if the remote flash units are not equipped with multiple flash terminals. Use the optional Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 to attach the remote flash unit(s) to a tripod. Use the optional TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-27, SC-26, SC-19 or SC-18 to connect the SB-600 to more than one remote flash unit. Multiple flash shooting using cords can be performed in two modes: (1) TTL multiple flash; and (2) Manual multiple flash. Performing multiple flash shooting in the Manual mode, however, is not recommended, since it is difficult to obtain the correct exposure. Use the TTL auto flash mode with cameras compatible with TTL auto flash. To ensure proper exposure, make test shots before shooting important events.
System chart for TTL multiple flash shooting using cords
Speedlights SB-11, SB-14, SB-140, and SB-21B cannot be used with the F-401/N4004 or F-401s/N4004s as either master or remote flash units.

Group I

F5 (with DA-30/DP-30) F100 F90X/N90s F90-Series/N90 F80-Series/N80-Series F75-Series/N75-Series F70-Series/N70 F5 (with DW-30/DW-31)

SC-24 SB-11 SC-23

SB-14 SB-140

SB-21B

Group II
F4-Series (with DW-20/DW-21) F4-Series (with DA-20/DP-20) F65-Series/N65-Series F-801s/N8008s F-801/N8008 Pronea 600i/6i
SB-15 SB-20 SB-22 SB-22s SB-23 SB-27 SB-30 SB-50DX SB-600

Group III

F-601/N6006, F-601M/N6000
SB-16B SB-24 SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/ 28DX

SB-29/29s SB-80DX SB-800

Group IV
F60-Series/N60 F50-Series/N50 F-401X/N5005

SC-17/ 28

SB-16A

SB-21A

Group V
F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004 F-301/N2000

Group VI

FM3A, FA, FE2 Nikonos V
V-type Sync Cord SC-14 Items marked on page 68 are connected to item on page 69.

Group VII

F3-Series
SB-16B SB-24 SB-80DX SB-800 SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/28DX

SB-29/29s

AS-10 SB-11 SC-23 SB-14 SB-140
SC-18/26 (1.5m) SC-19/27 (3m) AS-10 SB-15 SB-20 SB-21B SB-22 SB-22s SB-27 SB-30 SB-600

SC-18/26 SC-19/27

SB-16B SB-24 SB-25 SB-26

SB-28/ 28DX

SB-80DX

SB-800

AS-10 SB-16A SB-17 SB-21A SC-18/26 SC-19/27 Using SC-18/26 or SC-19/27, up to five flash units can be used for multiple flash photography at a total cable length of 10m (33 ft.). AS-11 AS-11 AS-11

SB-600 AF SPEEDLIGHT

Advanced Wireless Lighting: Remote Operation Creative Lighting System: Easier on-camera flash operation, wireless multiple flash operation and exposure precision that surpasses all others. Versatile Remote Speedlight for the Creative Lighting System i-TTL or Manual control when used with D70s built-in speedlight, i-TTL or Manual when used with SB-800 Speedlight Versatile Wireless functions for up to 3 remote i-TTL speedlight groups controlled by SB-800 Speedlight Four frequency channels prevent other photographers from inadvertently triggering flashes i-TTL Flash Control System i-TTL Flash Control: Accurate, seamless fill-flash capability under the most difficult, tricky lighting situations Available Options with D2H Pro Digital SLR and D70 Digital SLR; i-TTL Mode, Advanced Wireless Lighting, FV Lock, Flash Color Information and Wide Area AF Illuminator. FV Lock (Flash Value Lock) allows photographers to change the composition or zoom for the shot while maintaining desired lighting of the subject Auto FP High Speed Sync Mode when used with D2H Pro Digital SLR delivers needed fill flash in bright light or with wide aperture Nikkor lenses

PRODUCT DETAIL

Other Features Modeling Flash allows photographer to preview lighting effects LCD provides large, easy to read graphics, and ergonomic control design makes the buttons and switches simple to access and use Compatible with SJ-1 Color Filter Set - contains eight color filters, including filters for balancing tungsten lighting, fluorescent lighting, Red, Blue, Yellow and amber for special effects
SPEEDLIGHT SB-600 SPECIFICATIONS
Electronic Construction Automatic Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) and series circuitry Flash Exposure Control 1) i-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash with Nikon D2H and D70 2) D-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash with Nikon D1 series or D100 3) TTL Auto Flash with the Nikon F5, F100, N80, N75, and FM3A 4) Manual Flash Guide Number (ISO 100, m/ft.) Approx. 98 at 35mm setting in feet at ISO 100 Flash Coverage Automatic 24 to 85mm zoom; 14mm with built-in wide flash adapter Bounce Capability Flash head tilts up to 90 degree; flash head rotates horizontally 180 degree to the left or 90 degree to the right Power Switch ON / OFF button provided Film Speed Range in TTL Auto Flash Mode ISO 25 to 1,000 Creative Lighting System A variety of flash operations are available with cameras compatible with CLS; i-TTL Mode, Advanced Wireless Lighting, FV Lock, Flash Color Information and Wide Area AF Illuminator
Multiple Flash Operation Advanced Wireless Lighting (for D2H and D70) Minimum Recycling Time Approx. 3.5 seconds with AA Alkaline manganese batteries, 4 seconds with AA Lithium batteries Minimum Number of Flashes Approx. 200 (Alkaline) 400 (Lithium) Power Source Four AA-size batteries Dimensions (W x H x D) Approx. 68.0 x 123.5 x 90mm (2.7 x 4.8 x 3.5 in.) Weight (without batteries) Approx. 10.6 oz. Supplied Accessories Speedlight Stand AS-19 Soft Case SS-600 Optional Accessories SC-28 and SC-29 Sync cords Product Number TBD
WWW.NIKONSLR.COM / 1-800-NIKON-US / SLR-LENS-007 All specifications apply when fresh batteries are used at normal temperature (20C / 68F). Specifications and equipment are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer. February 2004. 2004 NIKON INC. 1300 Walt Whitman Road, Melville NY 11747