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USER GUIDE

1-800-CALUMET (225-8638) www.calumetphoto.com

Table of Contents

Introduction
Description Introduction & Safety Notes Control Panel Guide Connecting and Using Your Travelite Flash Power Control Modeling Lamp Controls Synchronization Changing the Modeling Lamp Changing the Fuse Changing the Flash Tube Mounting and Removing Reflectors Travelite Accessories Specifications

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Dear Valued Customer, Thank you for choosing the Calumet Travelite professional flash system. Accurate, ergonomic, powerful and simple to use, the Travelite was designed by working closely with photographers to develop a flash that meets the high standards demanded in professional studios today. All S-Type accessories from the Calumet/Bowens range can be used with the Travelite. For details of all related products, please call 1-800-CALUMET (225-8638), contact your local Calumet retail center or visit calumetphoto.com. In order to obtain the full benefit from your purchase, please take a few moments to familiarize yourself with this user manual. Thank you, Calumet Photographic

Safety Notes

ALWAYS
Always switch power off and disconnect from the supply before changing modelling bulb or flash tube. Always disconnect the supply before changing the fuse. Never replace with a fuse of a different rating. A spare fuse is fitted in the fuse holder under the AC inlet (see page 4). Always excercise care when handling equipment that has been in use. The reflector and front end of the unit can become Very Hot. Always avoid placing cables where they can be tripped over. Protect from heavy, sharp or hot objects, which may cause damage and replace damaged cables immediately. Due to the high voltage / high energy used in Travelites, all servicing must be carried out by a Calumet-authorized service center. Always remove the power cord by gripping the plug. NEVER pull the cord. Always ensure that any extension cord used has a suitable current rating to prevent overheating and never use coiled extension cords. Always remove the flash head covers before using.

DO NOTS

Do not use in an environment where moisture or flammable vapor is likely to come in contact with the unit. Do not plug your Travelite into an AC supply and a Travel-Pak battery at the same time. Do not restrict air vents while in use. Do not use a unit with damaged housing, moldings, flash tube or modeling lamp. If the unit is dropped or damaged in any way, always have it checked out before using. Do not operate the unit without a safe grounded AC supply.

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Control Panel Guide

Connecting and Using Your Travelite

Rear Control Panel

Carry handle

Operating Your Travelite

The Calumet Travelite may be operated either on an AC supply or with a Calumet Travel-Pak
For AC operation, the AC switch (page 4) should be in the upper position I. For battery operation the switch should be in the lower position II. AC / Battery Power Select The center position is off. NOTE: When operated from a battery source, the modeling functions are not available. Ensure the power source is off. Connect the unit using the appropriate cable. AC Inlet If using the Travel-Pak, ensure the connector locks are fully tightened. Switch the power source on, then switch on the Travelite. The unit will charge and indicate it is ready for use by illuminating the green flash-ready light. Press the test button to check the unit fires. Battery Power Inlet
Photocell On/Off Model Lamp Full/Proportional Modeling Lamp Control Switch Sync Socket

Fuse (and Spare Fuse)

WARNING HIGH VOLTAGE! NEVER CONNECT THE TRAVELITE TO

Side Control Panel

Reflector Release

Photocell

BOTH AC SUPPLY AND BATTERY SUPPLY AT THE SAME TIME. THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE GROUNDED WHEN USED WITH AC. DISCONNECT THE AC PLUG WHEN CHANGING MODELING LAMPS AND FLASH TUBES.

Mounting Your Travelite

Mount your Travelite on a dependable support system
The mount bushing on the L-bracket allows for two possible ways of mounting to the stand/support (RIGHT).
Flash Power/ Model Lamp Control

Flash-Ready Indicator

Test/ Open Flash
Method B may be found useful if the light is required to point down.

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Flash Power Control

The flash-power output level is variable over 5-stops, from full to 1/32 power. The maximum power available depends upon the model (See specification table) and is denoted by the number 6 on the control panel. The power settings are denoted in 13-stops. The numeric divisions indicate full-stop divisions. When switched on from either AC or battery supply, the unit will charge. Once the unit has charged to the desired power level, the green flash-ready lamp will illuminate indicating that the unit is ready to fire. NOTE: If the unit is subjected to rapid operation over extended periods, it may automatically go into an overheat condition. In this condition, the flash-ready lamp will illuminate to indicate the presence of power, while the charging and modeling functions are disabled in order to allow the unit to cool. The unit will automatically resume operation once cooled sufficiently. In an overheat condition, the unit will typically take 15 minutes to cool down. By switching the unit off and then on again after approximately 5 minutes, the unit can be re-activated in order to get a few extra shots if needed.
Changing the Modeling Lamp
Switch off Travelite and disconnect from the power supply. Screw modeling lamp into ES lampholder in the center of the reflector. Allow lamp to cool before removing. NOTE: It is recommended that a Photoflood or Halostar bulb with a maximum wattage of 275 watts is used. The manufacturer will not accept liability on the use of any lamp with a greater wattage than 275.

Changing the Fuse

The modeling and flash circuitry is protected by a single 10-amp fuse mounted on the rear panel. Never replace the fuse with one of a different rating. As the fuse may blow when the modeling lamp fails, always check the fuse when replacing the bulb. A spare fuse is supplied in the fuse holder. Always switch the unit and disconnect the Travelite unit from the power supply before changing the bulb or fuse.

Modeling Lamp Controls

With the modeling lamp control switch (see Rear Control Panel, page 4) in the upper position the modeling light is off. With the switch set to center, the modeling light stays on all the time. With the switch set in the lower position, the lamp will go out when the unit is flashed and come back on when the unit comes to ready. This enables the photographer to see from the camera position that all Travelite units in use have fired. The modeling light may set to full power or ratioed to the flash tube setting by using the Full/Proportional switch on the rear control panel. With the switch in the upper position, the lamp is proportional to flash output, while in the lower position, the lamps stay at full output regardless of power setting selected. Ensure that the unit is switched off and disconnected from the AC supply and then wait thirty minutes before touching/removing flash tube. Remove the protective cap and unwind the twisted trigger wire from the flash tube support. Gently pull the flash tube assembly out of the unit. To replace the assembly, hold the flash tube as shown and taking care to support both legs of the tube, gently but firmly, push the flash tube into position, and wind the trigger wire around the flash tube support. Always replace with the correct flash tube assembly: UV-Coated BW1498 Clear BW1499

Changing the Flash Tube

Synchronization
There are several ways to trigger your Travelite
Open Flash: For testing or multiple-flash applications the open-flash button can be used. Sync Socket: The standard 14" socket on the rear panel of the unit may be used for direct connection to a camera set to 'X' synchronization. Two Travelites may be connected together using a 'Y' connector. An Infrared receiver or flash slave may also be plugged into this socket. The socket operates at +5V and is safe for use on digital cameras. Built-in Photocell: The Travelite has a built-in switchable photocell enabling the unit to be triggered by the flash from any other flash unit or a small camera mounted flash gun. It is mounted behind the red transparent cover on the top of the unit. The photocell on/off switch is located on the rear control panel.
Mounting and Removing Reflectors
A range of reflectors is available for your Travelite. To mount, slide the neck of the reflector over the front of the unit. Align the three pegs on the reflector with the three slots in the retaining ring. Press down and turn clockwise to lock. To remove reflector, pull back reflector-release (page 4), turn the reflector fully anti-clockwise and withdraw. If an umbrella is to be used, a 6" Umbrella reflector should be mounted and the umbrella fitted through the hole in the mounting bracket on the reflector and locked in position with the knurled screw. NOTE: Take care when mounting and removing reflectors not to damage the flash-tube assembly. The flash tube is very delicate, avoid unnecessary handling of the glass tube. Always switch the unit off and disconnect from power supply before fitting and changing reflectors.

WARNING HIGH VOLTAGE! DO NOT TOUCH THE FLASH TUBE ASSEMBLY FOR 30 MINUTES AFTER DISCONNECTING FROM SUPPLY.

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Accessories

LiteLink Radio Trigger System
With the Travelite you are free from AC power cables. With the Calumet LiteLink Radio Trigger system you can free yourself from sync cables too! This multifunctional device can be used to trigger flash units, film and digital cameras and light meters up to 300' away. Because LiteLink is a radio transmittor, rather than IR, it allows for triggering around corners or through walls and is not affected by high ambient- light situations. Choose from four individual channels, each providing a unique ID for different flash devices or combine them to trigger all equipment within a given setup or studio. Because of its low-voltage operation, it is perfect for digital cameras. Each unit can be used as either a transmitter or receiver and operates off of two AAA batteries. LiteLink (Set of 2) CE1560

Reflectors

Calumets light-control reflectors are built to withstand many years of rigorous, daily use. They feature extremely strong housing and steel bayonet-type mounts for quick, positive mounting. The inner steel ring provides additional durability for frequent reflector changes. From studio sets to location sites, Calumets comprehensive system of accessories can handle any situation or assignment.
Visit calumetphoto.com for the widest range of photographic lighting accessories
6" Umbrella Reflector (120) CE1885
7" Grid Reflector CE18630

The Travel-Pak

The Travelite is great in the studio, but what if you need to work on location? Thanks to this handy battery pack, your Calumet Travelite can leave the studio to go on location anytime, anywhere! Able to power two Travelites simultaneously with a total power of up to 1500w/s, the Travel-Pak is capable of bringing a 375w/s unit to full charge as fast as 4 seconds, and can offer in excess of 200 flashes on a single charge. With a fast/slow charge option to prolong battery life as well as a carry bag offering protection from the elements and up to 3" of water, no location photographer should be without this unique power pack. Dimensions: 7.1(l) x 4.75(w) x 6.9(h)" Weight: 9 lbs. Travel-Pak CE1107
8" Reflector (60) CE1887 15" Soft-Lite Reflector CE1899 17" Sunlite Reflector (40) CE2" Reflector (50) CE1886 High Performance Reflector BW1878 Back-Lite Reflector CE2560
Also available for the Calumet Travel-Pak:
Travel-Pak Booster Battery CE1109 Travel-Pak-to-Travelite Spare Cable CE1111 Universal 2-Amp SLA Charger CE1108

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Specifications

Travelite Specifications Comparison Chart

Maximum Stored Energy Sync Voltage Flash Color Temperature Circuit Protection Supply Voltage Voltage Stabilization Guide Number
(Full Power, 50 Keylite, ISO 100)

Travelite 375

375w/s 5V 5600 K 300 K 115V - 10A (T) 95-130V AC 60Hz 1% 220 1.7 sec. Full / Intermittant / Off 1/900 Full to 1/32 (5 stops) Max 275w 100% Clear = BW1499 UV = BW1498 On/Off On/Off 275w Photoflood 250w Halostar 6.4 lbs. 15.13 x 6.75 x 5"

Travelite 750

750w/s 5V 5600 K 300 K 115V - 10A (T) 95-130V AC 60 Hz 1% 350 2.1 sec. Full / Intermittant / Off 1/600 Full to 1/32 (5 stops) Max 275w 100% Clear = BW1499 UV = BW1498 On/Off On/Off 275w Photoflood 250w Halostar 7.5 lbs. 15.13 x 6.75 x 5"
Typical Recycle Time (Full Power) Modeling Power Control Flash Duration (t=0.5, Full Power) Flash Power Control Modeling Lamp Flash-Ready Indication User Replaceable Flash Tube Photocell Audio-Ready Signal Recommended Modeling Lamps Weight Dimensions (l x w x h)
Due to our policy of constant product improvement, Calumet Photographic reserves the right to change equipment specifications at any time and without notice.

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Instructions

Operating Manual for the 750 and 375

Figure 1

1 Fuse Drawer (With Spare Fuse) 2 AC Connection 3 Sync Socket 4 Power On/Off Switch 5 Photocell On/Off Switch

Figure 2

1 Accessory Release Lever 2 Photocell Cover 3 Flash-Ready Indicator 4 Flash Power Control Knob 5 Test/Open Flash 6 Modeling Lamp Control Switch (Intermittent/Off/Continuous) 7 Modeling Lamp Power Switch (Proportional/Full) 56 7
Congratulations on Selecting Calumets Travelite!
We would like to welcome you to the worldwide family of Bowens/Calumet flash equipment users. We are confident that you will enjoy your new monolight system along with its extensive range of lighting accessories.

Safety Notes

The Travelite must not be used in an environment where moisture or flammable vapor is likely to come in contact with the unit. A fire hazard exists if flammable materials are placed in close proximity to either the flash tube or modeling bulb while the unit is in use. The charging and modeling circuitry of the Travelite is protected by a 10A (T) 20mm fuse that is mounted on the rear panel (Fig. 1.1). Disconnect the power supply before changing the fuse. Never replace with a fuse of a different rating. A spare 10A (T) fuse is fitted in the fuse drawer. Before changing a fuse, modeling bulb or flash tube, switch the unit off and disconnect the power supply. Do not restrict air vents while in use. The reflector and front end of the unit can become very hot. Caution must be exercised while handling equipment that has been in use. Due to the high voltage and high energy used by the Travelite, all repairs must be carried out only by an authorized Service Center.
Fitting the Modeling Lamp
Switch the unit off and disconnect from power supply. Screw the modeling lamp into the medium screw-base lamp socket.
Note: It is recommended that a Photoflood or Halostar bulb with a maximum wattage of 275w is used on the Travelite units. The manufacturer will not accept liability for the use of any lamp with a rating exceeding 275w.

Power Supply Connections

Use the AC cable supplied to connect to the electrical supply. (117V AC 60Hz)

Power On/Off Switch

The green illuminated Power On/Off switch (Fig. 1.4) on the rear panel controls the power to both the flash and the modeling lamp. Setting the switch to I turns the unit on and 0 turns the unit off.

Flash Power Selection

The flash power output is variable over five f/stops from full to 132 of power. The fullstored energy of the Travelite gives a Guide Number of 350 in feet (106m) for the 750w/s unit and 220 in feet (67m) for the 375w/s unit, using a 50 Keylite Reflector and 100 ISO film. The power settings (12, 14, 18, 116 and 132) are marked on the panel by moon phases and figures. Rotating the Flash Power Control (Fig. 2.4) from full to 12, 12 to 14, 14 to 18, 18 to 116, 116 to 32 reduces the power output by one f/stop for each step.

Charge

When first switched on, the green illuminated Power On/Off switch (Fig. 1.4) will light. When the unit has recycled to the level set by the Flash Power Control, (Fig. 2.4) the green Ready Indicator (Fig. 2.3) will light. Your Travelite is now ready to flash.

Synchronization

There are several ways to trigger the Travelite:
Test/Open Flash (Fig. 2.5)
For testing or multiple flash applications, push the Test/Open Flash button.

Sync Socket (Fig. 1.3)

The standard 14" jack-type socket on the rear panel of the unit may be used for direct connection to a camera set to X synchronization. This socket also accepts an Infrared Receiver, Omnicell or other remote triggering device.

Photocell (Fig. 1.5)

The Travelites built-in switchable photocell enables the unit to be triggered by the flash from another flash unit or a small on-camera flash. The photocell is mounted behind the red transparent cover (Fig. 2.2) on the top of the unit.
Modeling Lamp Control (Fig. 3)
To turn the modeling light off, turn the Modeling Lamp Control Switch (Fig. 2.6) to the central position. With the Modeling Light Control Switch set to Intermittent, the modeling light will go out when the unit is flashed and come back on when the unit returns to ready. This enables the photographer to see from the camera position that all the Travelite units in use have fired. With the switch set to Continuous, the modeling lamp remains on. In addition to these lamp functions, the unit can also be set to Full or Proportional on the Modeling Lamp Power Switch (Fig. 2.7). This allows the unit to have the modeling lamp set to full power or be varied in ratio with the flash power output by using the Flash Power Control Knob (Fig. 2.4).

Fuse (Fig. 1.1)

Modeling and flash circuitries are protected by a single 10A (T) 20mm fuse mounted on the rear panel. Never replace the fuse with one of a different rating. In case the fuse blows when the modeling lamp fails, be sure to check the fuse when replacing the bulb. A spare fuse is supplied in the fuse holder. Always switch the unit off and disconnect it from the power supply before changing the bulb or fuse.
Mounting or Removing a Reflector
A range of reflectors is available for the Travelite units. To mount, simply slide the neck of the reflector over the front of the unit. Align the three pegs on the reflector with the three slots in the retaining ring, press down and turn clockwise to lock. To remove reflector, push the Accessory Release Lever (Fig. 2.1) towards the rear of the unit. Turn the reflector fully counter-clockwise and withdraw. To use the Travelite with an umbrella, mount the Wide Angle Umbrella Reflector. Then insert the umbrella through the hole located on the reflectors mounting bracket and lock into position with the knurled screw.

Note: Due to its delicate nature, handle the flash tube with special care while mounting or removing reflectors. Always switch the unit off and disconnect from the power supply before changing the flash tube assembly.

WARNING: HIGH VOLTAGE

Do not touch the flash tube assembly for 30 minutes after disconnecting from the power supply.
Replacement of a Flash Tube
Make sure that the unit is switched off and disconnected from the power supply. After disconnecting the unit, wait 30 minutes before touching the flash tube. After a half hour has passed, remove the protective cap and unwind the twisted trigger wire from the flash tube support. Carefully pull the flash tube assembly out of the unit. Then grip the replacement assembly (Fig. 4) and match the two brass sockets with the plugs located in the front of the unit. Gently but firmly, push the flash tube into position and wind the trigger wire around the flash tube support. Always replace with the correct flash tube assembly: CE-1020 for clear or CE-1022 for UV-coated.

Continuous

Intermittent

Figure 3

Figure 4

Operation

Switch the unit on and set the Photocell and Modeling switches as required. Set the Flash Power control to the required level. When the unit has recycled, the green Ready Indicator (Fig. 2.3) will light. Plug in the sync cord and connect to camera shutter at X synchronization. You could also use the built-in Photocell or plug in an Infrared Receiver or Omnicell. The Test/Open Flash button should also be pressed after the flash power setting has been reduced to ensure that the next flash is set at the required power.

Mounting

The mount on the L bracket allows the Travelite to be mounted two different ways onto a stand or other support (Fig. 4). If your light needs to be pointed downward, method B is recommended.

Unit Specifications

Unit Stored Energy (Max.) Recycle Time (Full Power 117V 60Hz) Supply Voltage AC Voltage Stabilization Modeling Lamp Ready Indication Fuse Sync Volts Photocell Modeling Power Control Guide Number: Full Power, 50 Keylite, ISO 100 Flash Duration (Full Power) T=0.5 Flash Color Temperature Flash Power Control Recommended Modeling Lamps Flash Tube Assembly Dimensions Weight Travelite 750 750w/s 2.1 seconds 95-130 VAC 60Hz +/- 1% Max. 275w 100% 10A (T) 15V On/Off Intermittent, Off or Continuous Full or Proportioned with Flash 350 in feet (106m) 1/600 Approx. 6100 K (uncoated as standard) Full to 132, (5 f/stops fully variable) 250w 120V Halostar 275w 120V Photoflood Clear CE-1020 (as standard) UV-Coated CE-18(l) x 6 34(w) x 5(h)" (385 x 170 x 125mm) 712 lbs.(3.4kg) Travelite 375 375w/s 1.7 seconds 95-130 VAC 60Hz +/- 1% Max. 275w 100% 10A (T) 15V On/Off Intermittent, Off or Continuous Full or Proportioned with Flash 220 in feet (67m) 1/900 Approx. 6100 K (uncoated as standard) Full to 132, (5 f/stops fully variable) 250w 120V Halostar 275w 120V Photoflood Clear CE-1020 (as standard) UV-Coated CE-18(l) x 6 34(w) x 5(h)" (385 x 170 x 125mm) lbs. (3.1kg)

Due to our policy of constant product improvement, Bowens International reserves the right to change equipment specifications without notice.
CALUMET PHOTOGRAPHIC, INC. 900 WEST BLISS, CHICAGO, IL 60622 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Tel: 312/944-2774 Fax: 312/944-4035 www.calumetphoto.com