PF2500D_English_C404.qxd

2004.05.12

03:33 PM

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PROGRAM FLASH MAXXUM FLASH

2500 (D)

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

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FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE
Read and understand all warnings and cautions before using this product. Do not disassemble this product. Electric shock may cause injury if a high voltage circuit inside the product is touched. Immediately remove the batteries and discontinue use if the camera is dropped or subjected to an impact in which the interior, especially the flash unit, is exposed. The flash has a high voltage circuit which may cause an electric shock resulting in injury. The continued use of a damaged product or part may cause injuries. Store this product out of reach of children. Be careful when around children not to harm them with the product or parts. Do not fire the flash directly into the eyes. It may damage eyesight. Do not fire the flash at vehicle operators. It may cause a distraction or temporary blindness which may lead to an accident. Do not expose this product to liquids or operate this product with wet hands. If liquid enters the product, immediately remove the batteries and discontinue use. The continued use of a product exposed to liquids may cause damage or injury through fire or electric shock. Do not use the product near inflammable gases or liquids such as gasoline, benzine, or paint thinner. Do not use inflammable products such as alcohol, benzine, or paint thinner to clean the product. The use of inflammable cleaners and solvents may cause an explosion or fire. If the product emits a strange odor, heat, or smoke, discontinue use. Immediately remove the batteries taking care not to burn yourself, as batteries become hot with use. The continued use of a damaged product or part may cause injuries. Take the product to a Konica Minolta Service Facility when repairs are required.

WARNING

Using batteries improperly can cause them to leak harmful solutions, overheat, or explode which may damage property or cause personal injury. Do not ignore the following warnings. Only use the batteries specified in this instruction manual. Do not install the batteries with the polarity (+/) reversed. Do not use batteries which show wear or damage. Do not expose batteries to fire, high temperatures, water, or moisture. Do not attempt to recharge, short, or disassemble batteries. Do not store batteries near or in metallic products. Do not mix batteries of different types, brands, ages, or charge levels. Do not charge alkaline or lithium batteries. When recharging rechargeable batteries, only use the recommended charger. Do not use leaking batteries. If fluid from the batteries enters your eye, immediately rinse the eye with plenty of fresh water and contact a doctor. If fluid from the batteries makes contact with your skin or clothing, wash the area thoroughly with water. Tape over battery contacts to avoid short-circuiting during disposal; always follow local regulations for battery disposal.

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CAUTION
Do not use or store the product in a hot or humid environment such as the glove compartment or trunk of a car. It may damage the product and batteries which may result in burns or injuries caused by heat, fire, explosion, or leaking battery fluid. If batteries are leaking, discontinue use of the product. Do not fire the flash while it is in contact with people or objects. The flash unit discharges a large amount of energy which may cause burns. Burns may result if the batteries are removed immediately after prolonged or heavy flash use. Wait for the batteries to cool.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver. Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

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CONTENTS
NAMES OF PARTS...6 BASIC OPERATION INSTALLING BATTERIES...10 GETTING STARTED....12 Mounting the flash..12 Removing the flash...12 Turning the flash on...12 Auto Power Off....12 Metering-mode switch...13 About film use (Maxxum/Dynax cameras)..13 P MODE FLASH: THE BASICS..14 With Maxxum/Dynax series cameras..14 With DiMAGE series digital cameras..17 EXPOSURE MODES...20 A Mode Flash...20 S Mode Flash...20 M Mode Flash....21 Flash Sync Speed..21 ADVANCED OPERATION BOUNCE FLASH...23 AF ILLUMINATOR...26 OFF-CAMERA CABLES..27 Flash-Ratio Control (Varying the intensity of individual flash)..28 APPENDIX COMPATIBILITY WITH OTHER PRODUCTS..30 CAUTIONS WHILE HANDLING..32 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS..34
Thank you for purchasing this Konica Minolta product. Please take time to read through the instruction manual so you may enjoy all the features of your new flash unit. This manual covers the operation of PROGRAM/MAXXUM FLASH 2500HS(D) with the following cameras: Maxxum 9, 7, 800si, 700si, 600si, 400si, 300si, XTsi, HTsi, STsi, QTsi, 3, 4, 5 Dynax 9, 7, 800si, 700si, 600si, 505si, 505si Super, 500si, 500si Super, 404si, 303si, 300si, 3L, 3, 5 DiMAGE A1, A2, Z1, Z2, 7Hi, 7i, 7, 5 When using another Maxxum, Dynax series 35mm camera, a Vectis series APS camera, or a Dimge series digital camera, refer to Compatibility with Other Products section on page 30 while read the main section of this manual. This flash unit is designed and manufactured solely for use with the Konica Minolta Maxxum/Dynax series cameras and DiMAGE series digital cameras. It cannot be attached to other Konica Minolta cameras. Performance when used with cameras from other manufacturers cannot be guaranteed. Konica Minolta takes no responsibility for accidents or malfunctions due to use with those cameras.

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NAMES OF PARTS
Figures in parenthesis refer to the page number of relevant sections.

Flashtube

BASIC OPERATION
Mounting-foot-release button (12) AF illuminator (26) Mounting foot (12) Metering-mode switch (13, 14, 17) Switch up - ADI flash metering Switch down - TTL flash metering
The section covers how to prepare the flash for use as well as the basic flash operation.
Ready lamp (11, 15, 18) Glows steadily when the flash is ready to fire. Blinks when the correct flash exposure was made. Turns off when the flash is charging.
Battery-chamber door (10) Main switch (12) Autoflash lamp (14) Glows to indicate autoflash is active. Turns off when using fillflash.

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INSTALLING BATTERIES

BATTERIES

The 2500 (D) may be powered by : Four AA-size alkaline batteries Four AA-size lithium batteries Four AA-size rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries Only charge nickel-metal hydride batteries in an appropriate charger unit. When the flash is charged and ready, the ready lamp at the rear of the unit glows. When the flash charging time exceeds 30 seconds, replace the batteries.

1. Open the battery-chamber door as shown.
2. Insert the batteries as shown in the diagram in the battery chamber.
3. Close the battery-chamber door.

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GETTING STARTED

Mounting the flash

Slide the flash mounting foot firmly into the cameras accessory shoe until it stops.
The flash locks into place automatically. If the cameras built-in flash is up, lower it before mounting the flash unit.

Metering-mode switch

Select the flash metering-mode.
For the Maxxum/Dynax series cameras, ADI flash metering is available with the ADI compatible cameras and D series lenses. Refer to the cameras instruction manual for details. For the DiMAGE series digital cameras, ADI flash metering is available with the ADI compatible digital cameras when the ADI flash metering-mode is set with the recording mode menu. Refer to the cameras instruction manual for details. When using a close-up diffuser, a filter that increases exposure (red 25, neutral density), or bounce flash, set the metering mode to TTL. ADI metering will result in incorrect exposures.

Removing the flash

While pressing the mounting-foot release button (1), slide the flash (2) from the accessory shoe.

Turning the flash on

Slide the main switch to turn the flash on and off.
About film use (Maxxum/Dynax cameras)
Do not use films with a speed in excess of ISO 1000. Exposure errors may result.
The low-speed film limit is the same as specified in the cameras instruction manual. Refer to the instruction manual for details.

Auto Power Off

The flash is turned off automatically to save battery power if the flash is not used for 15 minutes. To restore power, slide the main switch off and on.

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P MODE FLASH: THE BASICS
1. Turn the camera and flash on. 2. Set the P exposure mode on the camera. 3. Select the flash metering mode on the flash. The active metering mode depends on the metering mode selected and the camera in use, see chart below.
Metering-mode switch position ADI flash compatible cameras with a D series lens ADI flash compatible cameras with TTL metering selected with a custom function Cameras incompatible with ADI flash metering ADI TTL ADI TTL metering TTL The photo will be under-exposed if taken before the flash is completely charged. When using the self-timer, confirm the flash is charged before pressing the shutter-release button to start the countdown. Flash metering mode used ADI metering TTL metering With the Maxxum/Dynax 9 and 800si, fill-flash is used when the P mode is selected (autoflash may also be selected as a custom setting with the 800si). With other cameras, autoflash is used with the P mode. Fill-flash can be selected in the same way as the flash mode of the built-in flash on the camera.

5. When the flash is charged, press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture.
The flash is charged when the ready lamp on the rear of the unit and the flash-ready lamp in the camera viewfinder are both lit.
If the flash output was sufficient for the exposure:
The ready lamp blinks on the rear of the flash unit. The indicator blinks in the camera viewfinder.
4. Press the shutter-release button partway down.
The autoflash lamp glows to indicate

autoflash is active.

The autoflash lamp does not glow when using fill-flash.

P MODE FLASH

With Maxxum/Dynax series cameras
With the Maxxum/Dynax 7, autoflash is used with full-auto, and fillflash with the P mode.

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P MODE FLASH: THE BASICS P MODE FLASH
Flash range of the 2500 (D) in meters Aperture 2.5.11 ISO 100 1-9 1-- 4.5 1-- 2.2 ISO - - 12 1-9 1-- 4.5
With DiMAGE series digital cameras
With the DiMAGE A1, A2, Z1, Z2, 7Hi, 7i, 7 and 5, fill-flash is used when the P mode is selected.
1. Turn the camera and flash on. 2. Set the P exposure mode on the camera. 3. Select the flash-metering mode on recording-mode menu and the flash metering mode on the flash. The active metering mode depends on the metering mode selected on recordingmode menu and the flash, see chart below.
Recordring-mode menu setting ADI TTL ADI P-TTL TTL The flash-metering mode can not be selected with the DiMAGE Z1, and Z2 on recording-mode menu. With these digital cameras, always P-TTL metering will be used regardless of the metering-mode switch.

(Continued on next page)

If the subject is closer than 1m, use the flash off-camera with a cable. The flash range is for negative films. When using slide film, underexposure may be apparent at the farther limits of the flash range.
Metering-mode switch position ADI
Flash metering mode used ADI metering P-TTL metering P-TTL metering

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4. Press the shutter-release button partway down. 5. When the flash is charged, press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture.
The flash is charged when the ready lamp on the rear of the unit glows and the flash signal on the monitors turns white. Flash range of the 2500 (D) in meters with the DiMAGE A1 / A2 / Z1 / Z2 / 7Hi / 7i / 7 / 5. Aperture (F) 2.5.11 Camera sensitivity (ISO) AUTO
0.5 - 12 0.5 - 9 0.5 - 6 0.5 - 4.5 0.5 - 3

ISO 100

0.5 - 9 0.5 - 6 0.5 - 4.5 0.5 - 3 0.5 - 2.2

ISO 200

ISO 400
0.5 - 18 0.5 - 12 0.5 - 9 0.5 - 6 0.5 - 4.5

ISO 800

0.5 - 25 0.5 - 18 0.5 - 12 0.5 - 9 0.5 - 6
The ready lamp blinks on the rear of the flash unit. The indicator used with the built-in flash appears on the monitors. Refer to the digital cameras instruction manual for details. The photo will be under-exposed if taken before the flash is completely charged. When using the self-timer, confirm the flash is charged before pressing the shutter-release button to start the countdown.

If the subject is closer than 0.5m, use the flash off-camera with a cable.

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EXPOSURE MODES
The following descriptions are for camera models with A, S and M exposure modes.

M Mode Flash

1. Turn the camera on. 2. Set the M exposure mode on the camera.
Fill-flash is the active flash mode.

A Mode Flash

1. Turn the camera and flash on. 2. Set the A exposure mode on the camera.
3. Set the aperture and shutter speed, and focus on the subject.
When using an SLR film camera, the shutter speed should be set to the flash sync speed or slower. The aperture will affect the flash range. The larger the aperture (the smaller the f number), the greater the range.
3. Set the aperture and focus on the subject.
The aperture will affect the flash range. The larger the aperture (the smaller the f number), the greater the range. The shutter speed is automatically set by the camera.
4. When the flash is charged, press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture. FLASH SYNC SPEED
Because of flash duration and focal-plane shutters, there is a limit to the maximum shutter speed that can be used. This maximum speed is known as the flash sync. speed. Sync speeds for specific camera models:
Maxxum/Dynax 9 : Maxxum/Dynax 7, 800si, 700si, 600si : Maxxum XTsi, HTsi, 5 : Dynax 505si, 505si Super, 5 : Maxxum STsi, QTsi, 400si, 300si, 3, 4 : Dynax 500si, 500si Super, 404si, 303si, 300si : Dynax 3L, 3 : 1/300 sec. 1/200 sec. 1/125 sec. 1/125 sec. 1/90 sec. 1/90 sec. 1/90 sec.
4. When the flash is charged, press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture.

S Mode Flash

1. Turn the camera on. 2. Set the S exposure mode on the camera.
3. Set the shutter speed, and focus on the subject.
When using an SLR film camera, the shutter speed should be set to the flash sync speed or slower. The shutter speed is set automatically with the Dynax 500si, 500siSuper, and Maxxum 400si.
All shutter speeds can be set with DiMAGE series digital cameras.

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BOUNCE FLASH
Direct flash illumination can cause harsh shadows on the subject and background. Bounce flash reflects the light from the ceiling to create soft diffuse illumination.

ADVANCED OPERATION

The section describes advanced flash photography techniques and accessories.
Bounce flash Normal flash

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Tilt the flash towards the ceiling.
The flash has a click stop at 60. The bounce head can be set in any position between 0 and 90.
Adjusting the Bounce Angle
The angle of the bounce head is important. If the bounce angle is too low, the subject will be illuminated by both directly with the flash and indirectly with the reflected light from the ceiling resulting in a harsh and unevenly lit photograph. Determine the bounce angle in reference to the distance to the reflective surface, the distance from the camera to the subject, and the angle of view of the lens.

With bounce flash, using ADI metering can result in incorrect exposure. Set the flash metering-mode switch to TTL. Use a white ceiling or wall to reflect the flash. The color of a surface will affect the color of the flash illumination. High ceilings or highly reflective surfaces such as glass are not suitable for bounce flash.

Correct

Incorrect
Determine the angle in relation to the table at right.
Focal length of lens 70mm minimum 28~70mm 28mm maximum

Bounce angle 75, 90

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AF ILLUMINATOR

In low-light or when subject contrast is low, the autofocus system may not be able to focus. In these conditions, the flashs AF illuminator will active to aid the AF system when the shutterrelease button is pressed partway down.

OFF-CAMERA CABLES

The use of the optional off-camera cables allows the flash unit to be placed to the left or right of the subject to create attractive side lighting. Up to four flash units can be connected.
The cameras AF illuminator is disabled when the flash AF illuminator is in use. The AF illuminator is disabled when using the continuous AF mode. The AF illuminator may not operate with lenses with focal lengths greater than 300mm. The illuminator is disabled when the flash is used off-camera, or with the AF macro-zoom 3X-1X lens. The AF illuminator may not operate when the flash is used with the DiMAGE series digital cameras.
The off-camera cable allows the flash to be used from any position. The extension cable further extends of the distance of the flash from the camera. The cable CD and triple connector TC-1000 allows photography with multiple flash units.
AF ILLUMINATOR OFF-CAMERA CABLES
The following off-camera accessories are available: Off-camera cable Off-camera shoe Extension cable Cable CD Triple connector TC-1000

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OFF-CAMERA CABLES Flash-Ratio Control (varying the intensity of individual flash)
When using this flash with other accessory flash units*, a 2:1 flash ratio can be used. The flash ratio controls the relative power of two flash units. The 2:1 ratio indicates the output difference between the main light and fill light; the fill light controls the depth of the shadows. *5600HS (D), 5400HS, 5400xi, 5200i
The flash ratio cannot be set with this flash. The ratio must be set with the compatible accessory flash unit. See the flash manual for details. Ratio control cannot be used with the DiMAGE series digital cameras and Maxxum/Dynax 300si. The use of this function may result in incorrect exposures.

APPENDIX

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COMPATIBILITY WITH OTHER PRODUCTS
Have your camera manual as reference when reading this flash manual.

Using APS SLR Cameras

(Vectis S-1)
Flash is set to autoflash in the P exposure mode. Fill flash can be selected with the flash-mode button on the camera. The shutter speed is set automatically in the S exposure mode. The flash coverage with APS cameras is sufficient for lenses with a focal length of 22mm or longer.
Using xi Series SLR Cameras
(Maxxum/Dynax 9xi, 7xi, 5xi, 3xi, SPxi, 2xi)
Flash is set to autoflash in the P exposure mode with the 9xi, 7xi, 5xi and 3xi. Fill flash can be selected. See the camera manual for details. Flash is set to autoflash in the P exposure mode with the SPxi and 2xi. Fill flash cannot be selected. The shutter speed is set automatically in the S exposure mode with the 7xi, 5xi, 3xi, SPxi, and 2xi.
Using Dimge RD3000 and RD-175 Digital Cameras
Flash is set to autoflash in the P exposure mode. Fill flash is used when a photo is taken while the manual fill-flash button on the camera is pressed. The shutter speed is set automatically in the S exposure mode.
Using i Series SLR Cameras
(Maxxum/Dynax 8000i, 7000i, 5000i, 3000i)
Flash is set to autoflash in the P exposure mode. Fill flash can be selected with the 8000i. See the camera manual for details. Flash is set to autoflash in the S exposure mode, and the shutter speed is set automatically. The use of ratio flash control will result in incorrect exposures when used with the 5000i and 3000i.
Using Early AF Series SLR Cameras
The optional flash shoe adapter FS-1200 is required. See the FS1200 manual for details.

COMPATIBILITY

(Maxxum/Minolta 9000, 7000, 5000)

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CAUTIONS WHILE HANDLING

During Photography

This flash unit has an intense light output and should not be fired directly in front of anyone's eyes. To prevent condensation from forming, place the flash in a sealed plastic bag when bringing it from a cold environment to a warm one. Allow it to come to room temperature before removing it from the bag. Battery capacity decreases at colder temperatures. Keep your flash and spare batteries in a warm inside pocket when shooting in cold weather. Batteries will regain some of their capacity when warmed to normal operating temperatures. This flash unit is not waterproof. Care should be taken not to expose the unit to water. Care should be taken when used on a beach or near water. Exposure to water, sand, dust, or salt may damage the product.

Batteries

Do not store the flash unit with the alkaline batteries inside. Leakage from the batteries may damage the battery chamber. When using alkaline batteries, temperature and storage conditions can affect performance and may require more than 30 seconds for the flash to charge. Battery performance can be restored by using the flash a few times or turning the flash unit on and off several times. Replace the battery if performance does not improve. If lithium batteries become hot due to high temperatures or repeated use, an internal safety circuit shuts them down. Wait until the batteries cool before using the flash again. Nickel-metal hydride batteries can lose power suddenly. If battery performance drops while using the batteries, recharge them. Depending on the time elapsed since the battery was manufactured, the flash performance for new batteries may differ from the values shown in the technical specification section.

Maintenance

Clean by wiping with a soft, clean cloth. If the flash has been in contact with sand, wiping will cause surface damage. Gently remove sand particles using a blower before wiping. Do not use organic solvents (paint thinners or benzene) to clean the product.
Questions and Service Temperature
Flash unit operating temperature: 20C to 50C, 4F to 122F. Do not leave the flash unit exposed extremely high temperatures (eg. direct sunlight inside motor vehicles), or in conditions of high humidity. If you have questions about your flash, contact your local camera dealer or write to the Konica Minolta distributor in your area. Before shipping your flash for repair, please contact an authorized Konica Minolta Service Facility for instructions.

CAUTIONS

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Guide number Recycling time (sec.) Number of flashes 25 (in meters at ISO 100), 82 (in feet at ISO 100) Alkaline 0.2 - 6 Alkaline 200 - 4000 Ni-MH 0.2 - 5 Ni-MH 200 - 4000 Lithium 0.2 - 6 Lithium 500 - 10000
For every new battery set.

Flash coverage

Equal to a 28mm focal length lens
Continuous flash 30 continuous cycles of 3 flashes per second (GN 2.8, Nickel-metal hydride battery) performance AF illuminator LED. Automatic with low-contrast subjects or under low-light conditions Approximate operating range (with Maxxum/Dynax 7) AF mid 1 area: 1 - 5m (50mm lens) Flash control using pre-flash, TTL direct metering TECHNICAL SPESIFICATIONS 65 (W) x 115 (H) x 69 (D) mm 190g (without batteries) This mark below the flashtube certifies that this product meets the requirements of the EU (European Union) concerning interference causing equipment regulations. CE stands for conformit Europenne (European conformity).

Flash control Size Weight
Specifications are based on the latest information available at the time of printing and are subject to change without notice.

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2004 Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc. under the Berne Convention and universal Copyright Convention

9222-8845-11

P-C404

Guide to Minolta Cameras or What They Didnt Tell Us in Their Docs

Compiled by Petr Holub

2002 2003
This guide is based on experiences of people around the Internet mostly from Minolta Yahoo group. This guide is dedicated to this group in hope that it could help to bring back discussions to the photography instead of lost expectations about D-SLRs and similar things.
I WOULD LIKE TO THANK TO all the people that contributed to this guide in any way and all the people that participate in Minolta Yahoo group discussions. P. H.

Contents

I would like to thank to. Contents List of Tables List of Figures 1 Foreword 2 Information on bodies and lenses 2.1 Minolta AF bodies. 2.1.1 Overview of Minolta AF bodies. 2.1.2 Batteries for Minolta equipment. 2.2 Minolta Dynax/Maxxum 600si (507si, 650si). 2.2.1 Beyond the Owners Manual: Tips and Tricks 2.3 Dynax/Maxxum Lens Chart. 2.3.1 G Series. 2.3.2 D-Series. 2.3.3 RS = Re-Styled Lenses. 2.3.4 Maxxum Lens Glossary. i ii iv v 27 27
3 Flash-less photography 3.1 Photographing with M42 / Minolta AF lens reduction. 3.1.1 Comment on M42. 3.2 More on photographing with M42 / Minolta AF lens reduction 3.3 Alternative testing of vignetting. 3.4 Setting Minolta DiMAGE Scan Dual with VueScan. 3.4.1 Scanning Fuji Provia. 3.5 Minolta mounts. 3.6 Disabling the lens mount check. 3.7 Remote release cord. 3.7.1 Building your own Remote Cord (v. 1). 3.7.2 Building your own Remote Cord (v. 2). 3.7.3 Building your own Remote Cord (v. 3). 4 Flash photography 4.1 FlashAmbient Control 4.1.1 P Mode Flash. 4.1.2 A Mode Flash. 4.1.3 S Mode Flash. 4.1.4 M Mode Flash 4.1.5 Fill Flash.

CONTENTS

4.2 4.3
4.1.6 Slow-Shutter Sync. 4.1.7 Other comment. Short summary on using ll-in ash. Short summary on using wireless ash
A Flash-less experiments A.1 INI les for Minolta DiMAGE Scan Dual with VueScan A.1.1 Settings for Fuji Provia 100F. A.1.2 Settings for Konica Centuria 100. A.1.3 Settings for Konica Centuria 200. A.1.4 Settings for Konica Centuria 400. A.1.5 Settings for Konica VX 100. A.1.6 Settings for Fuji Superia 1600. A.2 Reciprocity Corrections Brooks Institute. B Flash experiments B.1 Wireless ash experiment. B.1.1 Experiment setup. B.1.2 Experiment results and discussion. B.2 Flash Test ADI/Pre-Flash/Bounce/Wireless.
Bibliography Literature about Minolta and Minolta-compatible equipment Web links about Minolta and Minolta-compatible equipment Camera bodies. Lens. Flash. Interesting books on photography.

List of Tables

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9 2.10 2.11 3.1 3.2 4.1 4.2 Minolta AF Bodies in Chronological Release Date Order Batteries for Minolta equipment. Fixed focal length lenses. Zoom lenses. Macro lenses. Teleconvertors. xi zoom lenses. G lenses (I). G lenses (II). G lenses (III). D lenses. 45
VueScan parameters for scanning Fuji Provia using Minolta Scan Dual. Disabling the lens mount check. Flashambient compensations performed by camera. Changing Program Flash Control with the Custom xi card.
A.1 Reciprocity Corrections Brooks Institute (1/2). A.2 Reciprocity Corrections Brooks Institute (2/2). B.1 B.2 B.3 B.4 B.5 B.6 Wireless ash experiment setup. Wireless ash experiment: observations of camera and ashes behavior Wireless ash experiment: results. Flash experiment: 2485 lens. Flash experiment: 2880D lens. Flash experiment: Wireless.

List of Figures

3.1 3.2 Results of M42 adapter tests (1). Results of M42 adapter tests (2). 40
B.1 Wireless ash experiment setup.

Chapter 1

Foreword
As noticed by many photographers around the world Minolta produces high quality products for photographers. What they lack are people capable of writing documentation of reasonable quality. After hearing many discussions like: My camera of this brand is much better that your of that brand! and after seeing many master-pieces of photography shot with some of old all-manual cameras the point I feel as the most important is to get acquainted with the camera you already have (unless its really crippled) and to know exactly what it will do under (almost) any situation and how to make it do what you need and want. I hope that this guide will help us at least a bit to have our Minolta cameras working in this manner. Heres the list of people whose contributions has been included in this guide: Chingfeng Au (cfau1974@hotmail.com)

Phil Brandon (??) Chuck Cole cncole@earthlink.net) CyberSimian (CyberSimian@BTinternet.com) Gary Friedman (gary@friedmanarchives.com) Petr Holub (hopet@ics.muni.cz) Csaba JOZSA (??) Scott Kimball (SCOTTK@MAINE.maine.edu) Peter Blaise Monahon (peterblaise@yahoo.com) Dario Piantanida (ario@logic.it) Marat R. Saulin (??) Magnus Wedberg (mw@9000.org)
I would really appreciate having other people contributing to this guide to help other from the community. If you have anything what you think could be valuable for others dont hesitate to contact me. The same holds if you discover some valuable discussion in Minolta group archives. I will be happy to add your contributions! P. H.

Chapter 2

Information on bodies and lenses

2.1 Minolta AF bodies

2.1.1 Overview of Minolta AF bodies
[Author(s): Unknown, taken from Minolta AF FAQ [4].]
Table 2.1: Minolta AF Bodies in Chronological Release Date Order Released Europe Dynax 7000 AF 9000 AF 5000 AF 3000i 7000i 5000i 8000i U.S. Maxxum 7000 AF 9000 AF 5000 AF 3000i 7000i 5000i 8000i SPxi 3xi 7xi 2xi 5xi 9xi 700si 400si 500si 600si (Classic) 800si HTsi XTsi 9 QTsi NYA Canada Maxxum Japan Alpha ( ) 7000 Alpha 9000 Alpha 5000 Alpha Alpha 7700i Alpha 5700i Alpha 8700i
1991 3xi 1991 7xi 1992 2xi 1992 5xi 1992 9xi 1993 700si 1994 500si 1995 300si 1995 500si Super 1995 600si (Classic) 1997 800si 1998 505si 1998 505si Super 1999 303si 1999 404si continued on next page.
807si Alpha Sweet 9 STsi 7 5

2.1. MINOLTA AF BODIES

. continued from previous page Released Europe U.S. Dynax Maxxum 3L 3L

Canada Maxxum

Japan Alpha ( )
2.1.2 Batteries for Minolta equipment

Table 2.2: Batteries for Minolta equipment Body or Meter Dynax/Maxxum AF Bodies All except below & XTsi Dynax 5, 505si, XTsi Dynax 7 and 9 body VC-700 and VC-800 grips VC-7 and VC-9 grips Original AF Bodies & 5000 with original battery holder 7000 & 5000 with optional BH-70L MF SLRs XM, XE-1, XE-5, XD-7, XD-5, XG-1, XG-2, XG-9, XGM, X-9 X-300, x-300s, X320s, X-500, X-700 SRT-101, 100, 202, 303, 100x, 101b, 303b, SR7, SR1 Meter Vectis APS Bodies S-1, S-300, 30, 25, 200, 20, 10, UC, Weathermatic, GX variants Himatic Compacts and Earlier Rangender Bodies Minolta AL-F, AL-E, Himatic 7, 7s, 9 and 11 Himatic 7S-II, 5, G, G2, C Himatic E, F Himatic S, S2, GF, AF, AF2, AF2M Minolta CLE (Leica M lensmount) AF and Focus-free Compacts (modern) 140EX, 135EX, 105EX, Panorama Zoom 28 90EX, 70C, Weathermatic DL 115EX, 75W, 70W, 70EX, RZ 70, Pcio, Mini, Panorama 105i, 90C, Twin 28, AF Zoom 65, AF Zoom 90, AF Tele Super AF5, 100AF, AF35EX, AF35, AF35C, Riva 35 AF-101R, AF-20R, F-10/BF, C-10, Memory Maker FS-E, FS-EII, FS-35, AF-E AF-C AF-T AF-Z, AF-EII, AF-DL, AF Tele 60, AF-SP continued on next page. Batteries Used 1 2CRCRCR123A 4 AA or 1 x 2CRAA or (1 2CR5 and/or 1 CR123A)

2 CRx CRCR2

PX625 PX675 PX640 AA 10L14 or EPX-76 CR123A DL223A CR123A 2CR5 AA AA AA 10L14 AA or DL223A AAA or DL223A
AA AAA AA EPX-76 or 2 10L14
2.2. MINOLTA DYNAX/MAXXUM 600SI (507SI, 650SI)
1 AA 1 AA and 1 PXPXMN10LPX1.35 V mercury cell: PX1 or RM1
Notes: PX625 and other PX- type button batteries, as used in many older manual focus SLRs, contain mercury and slowly being outlawed around the world for obvious environmental reasons. A possible solution is the air cell, made by Wein in the USA. Ask for WeinCell MRB625 (to replace a PX625), MRB675 (PX675) or MRB400 (PX400). Some discontinued AF bodies use a separate internal button battery to provide memory backup for settings, etc. Although they last a long time, they do eventually need replacing. The individual requirements of these particualr bodies are not listed in the table above, but I would be glad to add them. Avoid the cheap types of button cells made for virtual pets or market-stall watches. They are not the same as those intended for photographic use: their output voltage varies underload and this will lead to incorrect meter readings.
2.2 Minolta Dynax/Maxxum 600si (507si, 650si)
2.2.1 Beyond the Owners Manual: Tips and Tricks
[Author(s): Peter Blaise Monahon, taken from [12].]
LCD Displays Check: On the Minolta 507si, 600si, and 650si camera, to check the valid functioning of every LCD Liquid Crystal Display element: 1. Set the Drive Mode Selector to Multiple Exposure, 2. Press and hold the ISO Film Speed Button while opening and closing the battery door. All displays appear in the Body and Viewnder Data Panels. 3. Open and close the battery door to return the displays to normal. Auto Exposure Lock: Only the AEL Auto Exposure Lock button will lock exposure when the Minolta 507si, 600si, and 650si camera is set for Center-Weighted Average Metering Mode or Spot Metering Mode. Pressing the AEL Auto Exposure Lock Button locks the exposure settings and switches the meter to Spot Metering Mode. The AEL Auto Exposure Lock control has no function in M Manual Exposure Mode. You have three options for locking and holding the desired exposure value on the Minolta 507si, 600si, and 650si camera: 1. Using M Manual Exposure Mode, once set, the camera auto functions will not override your Aperture and Shutter Speed selections.

. continued from previous page Body or Meter TC-1 Digital Cameras Dimge V RD-175 Exposure Meters Flashmeter V, Autometer IV F, Spotmeter F Flashmeter IV Autometer IIIF, III and II, Spotmeter M Colormeter II, Flashmeter II Flashmeter III Booster II Viewmeter 9
Batteries Used CR123A AA 2CR5
2. Using 14 Segment Honeycomb Metering Mode and an attached automatic lens in AF Auto Focus mode, you can lock the exposure reading in P Program Exposure Mode, A Aperture priority Exposure Mode, or in S Shutter Speed Priority Exposure Mode by pressing the Shutter Release Button part way down. 3. Center-Weighted Metering Mode and Spot Metering Mode readings can be locked using only a third method pressing the AEL Auto Exposure Lock Button, marked AEL to the right of the eyepiece. You can use the AEL Auto Exposure Lock Button to lock the exposure setting in any of the Minolta 507si, 600si, and 650si cameras three metering systems. AEL Auto Exposure Lock is especially useful in the automatic exposure modes, Program, A Aperture priority, or S Shutter priority, when you want to take a meter reading from one part of your chosen photographic subject scene and then focus on another part. You can do this by focusing, and possibly zooming in, on the detail you want to meter and then pressing and holding the AEL button. [AEL] appears in the Viewnder Data Panel. You must maintain pressure on the AEL button until you release the shutter to the picture. Then aim the focusing target at your subject and press the shutter release part way down to lock focus. You can then reframe and adjust the lens zoom if necessary to get the image you want. Then press the shutter release all the way down and make your exposure. By Minolta factory default, the AEL Auto Exposure Lock feature is effective only while you hold it down. To reset the AEL Auto Exposure Lock feature to toggle AEL on at rst press, off at second press hold ISO Button switch and tap AEL Auto Exposure Lock Button. Front and Rear Control Dial Rules: Generally, both front and rear control dials increase the numeric value being controlled when rotated to the right, and decrease the numeric value being controlled when rotated to the left. The Front and Rear dials Control Dials on the Minolta 507si, 600si, and 650si camera can be used interchangeably to set camera body Shutter speed and an attached automatic lens Aperture in all Exposure Modes and operations except M Manual Exposure Mode. In M Manual Exposure Mode, the Front Control Dial sets the camera body Shutter Speed and the Rear Control Dial sets an attached automatic lens Aperture. For guidance from the Metering system, rotate the Control Dials in the direction of the arrows in the Viewnder Data Panel to obtain a Shutter Speed and attached automatic lens Aperture to correspond with the camera Metering systems assessment of your chosen photographic subject. Viewnder Long Eye Relief: The viewnder image and all displays can be seen in their entirety from a distance of 0.9 inch (22.7 mm), appropriate for photographers wearing glasses. Setting Viewnder Diopter: You can easily set the diopter correction without a lens on the camera. Point it toward a bright light source and turn the small diopter adjustment dial (next to the eyepiece) until the brackets etched on the viewing screen appear sharpest. The dial sets correction factors between and diopters. High Shutter Speed Flash: The Minolta 5400HS accessory ash unit emits a short pre-ash in HSS High Speed Synchronization Mode, which res when the cameras Shutter Release Button is depressed half way. This allows the camera metering system to measure the subjects illumination at this instant and select a ash intensity and Shutter Speed for balanced illumination of the subject and the background. If, while in P Program or Aperture priority Exposure Mode, a Flash to Shutter synchronization speed faster than second is called for, the system automatically shifts into High Speed Synchronization Mode. High Speed Synchronization Mode Flash differs from conventional ash by ring a series of highfrequency pulses at 50 k Hz that resemble a constant light source. Even illumination across the lm frame is assured during the entire time the cameras shutter curtains are open to record the image.

109/16 451/8 451/8

131/4 147/16 153/8
These lenses have the same glass as the previous MZ models. No Focus scale. No focus lock button. Table 2.5: Macro lenses Lens Elements / Groups 7/6 7/6 5/5 8/8 8/8 8/8 13/8 7/5 Angle Of View
Size of subject that lls the lm plane. Table 2.6: Teleconvertors Lens *1.4 APO

continued on next page.

1.4 II APO [HS]

Elements / Groups 5/4

Dimensions (dia. length) [in] 21/2 13/16

Weight [oz] 63/16

Compatibility 200 f/2.8 APO G 300 f/2.8 APO G 300 f/4 APO G 400 f/4.5 APO G 600 f/4 APO G 200 f/2.8 APO G 300 f/2.8 APO G

3/1 1/1

33/8 45/8 33/4 (W H D)

mm (3X) mm (1X)

1 (3X) 1.6 (1X)

.75 1.2 1.2

1/2 1/1 1/1

55 mm 55 mm 55 mm

25/8 23/16 213/16 37/8 213/16 37/8 37/8 72/3
*50mm f/2.8 50mm f/2.8 [RS] 50mm f/3.5 *100mm f/2.8 100mm f/2.8 [RS] 100mm f/2.8 (D) 200mm f/4 APO G Zoom f/1.7 2.8

211/16 25/16 23/4 23/8

Min. Focus [ft].65.65

Max. Magnication 1/1 1/1

31/8 57/8
100300mm f/4.55.6 APO (D) 100400mm f/4.56.7 APO
Dimensions (dia. length) [in] 27/8 4
105/16 117/185/16 185/403/16 3813/16
. continued from previous page Lens Elements / Dimensions (dia. Groups length) [in]
Compatibility 300 f/4 APO G 400 f/4.5 APO G 600 f/4 APO G 200 f/2.8 APO G 300 f/2.8 APO G 300 f/4 APO G 400 f/4.5 APO G 600 f/4 APO G 200 f/2.8 APO G 300 f/2.8 APO G 300 f/4 APO G 400 f/4.5 APO G 600 f/4 APO G
Manual focus only Table 2.7: xi zoom lenses Lens Elements / Groups Elements/ Groups 8/8 Angle Of View Min. Focus [ft] Min. Focus (ft) 1.6

Angle of View

Sold with xi cameras. Not true xi lens as zoom drive was camera AF motor. No motor in lens.

2.3.1 G Series

G-series lenses are Minoltas high-performance class optics. They have the best specications, feature special advanced technology, and offer the best image quality of all Minolta lenses. G-series lenses are designed to meet the high expectations of the most demanding professional. The quality of the image they produce is among the nest in the industry. Each G-series lens incorporates one or more of the following features: circular aperture, double oating and oating-focusing systems, Internal focus, Anomalous Dispersion (AD) glass, aspheric elements, and

215/16 311/16 27/8 33/16 215/16 315/16
1.6 (f/28) 1.6 (f/35) 4.9

213/16 25/8 27/8 3

*3580mm f/45.6 Power Zoom *2880mm f/45.6 *28105mm f/3.54.5 *35200mm f/4.55.6 *80200mm f/4.55.6 *100300mm f/4.55.6

II APO [HS]

111/16
Dimensions (dia. length) [in] Dimensions (in) (dia. length) 25/8 21/8

Weight (oz)

911/16 157/8 175/8 109/16 151/2
focus-hold buttons. Minolta will continue to expand its G-series as the needs and demands of professional photographers grow. Table 2.8: G lenses (I) AF 1735mm f/3.5 APO Circular Aperture Floating focus Internal Focus Anomalous Dispersion Glass Asperhic Elements Focus Hold Button Yes No No Yes Yes Yes AF 35mm f/1.4 Yes Yes No No Yes No AF 85mm f/1.4 (D) Yes Yes No No No Yes AF 2870mm f/2.8 Yes Yes No No Yes Yes AF 80200mm f/2.8 APO Yes No No Yes No Yes
Table 2.9: G lenses (II) AF 200mm f/2.8 APO No No Yes Yes No Yes AF Macro 200mm f/4 APO Yes No Yes Yes No Yes AF 300mm f/2.8 APO No No Yes Yes No Yes AF 300mm f/4 APO Yes No Yes Yes No Yes AF 400mm f/4.5 APO Yes No Yes Yes No Yes AF 600mm f/4 APO No No Yes Yes No Yes
Circular Aperture Floating focus Internal Focus Anomalous Dispersion Glass Asperhic Elements Focus Hold Button
Table 2.10: G lenses (III) Lens Elements / Groups Angle Of View Min. Focus [ft] 1 2.30 4.9 8.2 8.2 9.9
23/8 51/4 51/16 93/8 39/16 811/16 41/4 103/4
35mm f/1.4 G 10/8 85mm f/1.4 G 7/6 (D) 200mm f/4 13/8 MACRO APO G 200mm f/2.8 8/7 APO G 300mm f/2.8 11/9 APO G 300mm f/4 9/7 APO G 400mm f/4.5 9/7 APO G continued on next page.

f/22 f/22

Dimensions (dia. length) [in] 29/31/16 213/16 31/8 72/3

169/16 193/4 403/16

177/8 871/2 493/4 67

2.3.2 D-Series

D-Series lenses include new distance-encoding device which enables improved calculation for ash exposure with Maxxum 5 and 7 cameras when used with 3600HS D and 5600HS D ashes. Table 2.11: D lenses Lens Elements / Groups 12/11 8/7 Angle Of View Min. Focus [ft] 1.6
Manual focus ring does not rotate during AF

2.3.3 RS = Re-Styled Lenses
Fixed Focal Length Lenses AF 20mm f/2.8 RS Rubber focusing grip. Circular aperture up to f/5.6. Revised Foot/Meter focus scale in all white paint. The new lens is optically the same as the original. AF 24mm f/2.8 RS Rubber focusing grip. ABS plastic focusing barrel. Circular aperture up to f/5.6. Revised Foot/Meter focus scale in all white paint. The new lens is optically the same as the original. AF 35mm f/1.4 RS AF lock/lens function button on lens. Rubber focusing grip. Circular aperture up to

31/5 213/16 213/16 37/8

213/16 413/16 4
24105mm f/3.54.5 (D) 2880mm f/3.55.6 (D) (S) 75300mm f/4.55.6 (D) (S) 100300mm f/4.55.6 APO (D) 85mm f/1.4 G (D) 100mm f/2.8 Macro (D)
Dimensions (dia. length) [in] 25/8 25/8 27/16 29/16
1735mm f/3.5G 2870mm f/2.8 G 80200mm f/2.8 APO G

600mm f/4 G

Dimensions (dia. length) [in] 65/8 1711/16 31/4 31/5 31/4 49/16 31/2 69/16

194 211/16 267/16 451/8

13 15/16 611/16

171/10

193/4 18
f/5.6. Revised Foot/Meter focus scale in all white paint. The new lens is optically the same as the original. AF 35mm f/2.0 RS Rubber focusing grip. Circular aperture up to f/5.6. Revised Foot/Meter focus scale in all white paint. The new lens is optically the same as the original. AF 50mm f/1.7 RS Rubber focusing grip. ABS plastic focusing barrel. Foot/Meter focus scale in all white paint. The new lens is optically the same as the original. AF 50mm f/1.4 RS Wider rubber focusing grip. ABS plastic focusing barrel. Circular aperture. Large, detachable lens shade. Foot/Meter focus scale in all white paint. 55mm lter thread. The new lens is optically the same as the original. AF 85mm f/1.4 RS AF lock/lens function button on lens. Rubber focusing grip. Circular aperture up to f/5.6. Revised Foot/Meter focus scale in all white paint. The new lens is optically the same as the original. Zoom Lenses 24-50mm f/4 RS Rubber focusing grip. ABS plastic focusing barrel. Foot/Meter focus scale in all white paint. The new lens is optically the same as the original. 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5 RS Circular Aperture. New style rubber focusing and zoom grips. The new lens is optically the same as the original. 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5 Introduced with 9xi in 1992. Polycarbonate barrel. Faster focusing.* 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 RS Circular Aperture. New style rubber focusing and zoom grips. The new lens is optically the same as the original. 80-200mm f/2.8 APO HS The 80-200mm f/2.8 APO received a stronger focusing shaft which enabled better focus tracking, a rubber focusing grip for easier manual focus, and white paint nish. Macro Lenses 50mm f/2.8 Macro Rubber focusing grip. ABS plastic focusing barrel. Circular aperture. Focus Range limiter. Focus hold button. 100mm f/2.8 Macro Rubber focusing grip. ABS plastic focusing barrel. Circular aperture. 40 HS = High Speed APO Lenses 200mm f/2.8 APO

Anyway, for the connector, I had another solution from the news : Its to buy the cord which connect the camera to the IC R1 infrared remote device. The only problem is that this device only deal with the shutter release and Im afraid that this cord only have two pins connected. November 2002, Csaba JOZSA adds: I would like to add a comment: on the Dynax cameras (at least on the Maxxum/Dynax 5) the shutter release works only if the focussing is not switched off. Thus, the procedure is: connect focus pin to common focussing , connect shutter pin to common without disconnecting the focus pin exposing. Its a bit unhandy, since you are obliged to always focus before shutter release, aldo, if you focus with AF and then switch to MF mode, the camera wont change the focus setting. (On switching back to AF, he will.)
3.7.2 Building your own Remote Cord (v. 2)
[Author(s): Scott Kimball, taken from Minolta AF FAQ [4].]
The question was asked, Did I nd a switch like Minolta uses, or did I use 2 switches. The answer: I used 2 switches in the following way: A push-on, push-off single pole, single throw switch enables focus. A momentary single pole, double throw switch de- activates focus and activates the shutter with one push. (Pins are drawn in F C S incorrect order | | | for ease of |--/--| | | drawing -(foc) |SPST | ___| C F S is the |--------|_|_|? correct order) SPDT (shutter) Please forgive the crude drawing. Wired this way, using autofocus mode, you can rst press the focus button to enable the autofocus. Then, when the camera has focused, press the shutter release button (the SPDT button) to switch instantly from focus to re (and back again if you use the momentary switch). If you are manually focusing, you need not rst press the focus button, and the shutter will still trip when you press the shutter release. If you do rst press the focus button and the camera is in manual focus mode, nothing happens because autofocus is not on. In a way, I like a 2 button setup better than a 1 button setup, because there is less chance of accidently ring off a shot. The only thing this doesnt have is a locking feature to lock the shutter open, but it shouldnt be hard to come up with a mechanical method of locking the button down. As far as experimenting with this and the possibility of damaging the camera, as long as you dont introduce any current into the circuit there wont be a problem. The only other damage you could do is bending or breaking a pin in the camera socket if you make a connector that doesnt t well and try to force it.

4.1.1 P Mode Flash

When the ash is up or any dedicated accessory ash is attached to the 700sis hot shoe, either directly or through accessory connectors, it will re automatically in P mode whenever necessary. The shutter speeds between 1/200 and 1/60 second and apertures within the working range of the lens will be set automatically depending on the ambient light level. The cameras TTL ash metering system monitors the amount of light which reaches the lm plane and automatically stops the ash output when it detects that sufcient exposure has been received. In backlight conditions requiring ash or when the forced-ash button is pressed, the ambient light exposure of the subject will be reduced by approximately one stop and the ash brightness will be reduced from 1/4 to 3/4 stop to maintain proper subject exposure. The background will be up to 1-1/2 stops brighter than the subject exposure. When the SPOT button is pressed for slow-sync ash photography, ash brightness is reduced by 3/4 stop and shutter is set to a speed slow enough to allow normal background exposure. The ash will not re if the 700si is set for either PA or PS modes. Press the MODE button to resume normal P Mode ash operation. Changing Program Flash Control with the Custom xi card Normally the 700sis exposure computer will decide when to use ash even if the built-in ash is popped up or an accessory ash is attached and turned on. If you would like the ash to re everytime the ash is lifted, use the Custom xi card to switch the Program ash control to manual switchover. The table 4.2 shows the function number and setting to make.

Exposure control

4.1. FLASHAMBIENT CONTROL
Function number 5 Backlight ll-in EV 1 EV or less EV or less Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Frontlight ll-in EV 1 EV No adjust Low light ll-in 0 EV 1 EV or less No adjust Yes Main Flash light subject Ambient light Backgroud (ambient) P mode + Auto ash P mode + Forced ash A mode + Flash ON S mode + Flash ON P mode + SLOW SYNC A mode + SLOW SYNC S mode + SLOW SYNC Backlight ll-in Frontlight ll-in Lowlight ll-in Night ll-in Daylight situation when the main subject is much darker than background Daylight situation when there is no big difference between subject and background brightness Dark condition or a situation which may cause blur due to camera shake Lowlight situation when background exposure is desired as much as the main subject.
Night scene EV No adjust 0 EV
TABLE 4.1: Flashambient compensations performed by camera
Control Program ash Control

Mode and operation

Yes Yes Yes Yes

Setting 1 2

Action Auto Switchover Manual Switchover
TABLE 4.2: Changing Program Flash Control with the Custom xi card

4.1.2 A Mode Flash

In A Mode, the photographer sets the aperture and the camera automatically selects the fastest sync speed between 1/200 and 1/60 second that ambient light levels will allow. This provides the advantages of full depth-of-eld control while the Expert exposure system uses multi-pattern metering or center-weighted metering to automatically determine ambient exposure and the necessary ash output. Basically, the system is designed to reduce ambient light exposure by one stop (by increasing the shutter speed) and, if possible, maintain it at this level for backlight, frontlight, and lowlight ll-in. In backlight and frontlight conditions, the ash brightness is reduced from 1/4 to 3/4 stop to produce a pleasing subject exposure. The background will be up to 1-1/2 stops brighter than the subject exposure. For indoor photography, ash brightness is at its normal rating while the shutter speed is controlled to reduce and maintain ambient light brightness by one stop. The slowest shutter speed available in A mode is 1/60 sec. Ambient levels requiring longer speeds will be underexpose to a greater degree. When the SPOT button is pressed for slow-sync ash photography, ash brightness is reduced by 3/4 stop and shutter is set to a speed slow enough to allow normal background exposure.

4.1.3 S Mode Flash

In this mode, any shutter speed between 1/200 sec. and 30 seconds can be selected by the photographer. The 700si Expert Exposure system then automatically selects the appropriate aperture from within the lens working range. Basically, the system is designed to reduce ambient light exposure of the subject by one stop (by closing the aperture) and, if possible, maintain it at this level for backlight, and frontlight ll-in. In these conditions, the ash brightness is reduced from 1/4 to 3/4 stop to produce a pleasing subject exposure. The background will be up to 1-1/2 stops brighter than the subject exposure. Shutter-priority ash is best used when the ambient front or backlight is equal to or greater than the subject brightness. If used in normal indoor ash photography where the background is dark, the aperture will remain wide open until the ambient light level approaches a normal ambient light, exposure. This provides the least amount of depth of eld for the picture. If the indoor brightness is high enough or the shutter speed selected is low enough to produce an ambient exposure without ash, the metering system treats the situation like a front- or back-light ll-in situation by reducing both ambient and ash exposure as described above. When the SPOT button is pressed, ash brightness is reduced by 3/4 stop and the if the ambient light is bright enough to require an aperture smaller than the maxxum for the lens in use, the lens aperture will be opened toward achieving better background exposure. Once again, S mode is not recommended for this procedure.

4.1.4 M Mode Flash

In this mode, both aperture and shutter speed (within maximum x-sync) are set by the photographer. The ash output is determined by the 700sis metering system and regulated by its TTL ash control system. The photographer can manually adjust the ambient exposure by the shutter speed and aperture selected and control automatic ash brightness by using the cameras ash exposure override feature. The 5200i, 5400xi, and 5400HS ash units can also be switched to manual operation and the level adjusted for special applications.

4.1.5 Fill Flash

In P mode, whenever the 700sis 14-segment honeycomb-pattern metering system detects that conditions require additional light to balance the subject and background exposures, a dedicated, attached accessory ash will re automatically. When not normally called for in P mode, the ash can also be red manually by pressing and holding the ash-control button while taking the picture. In A, S, and M modes, ll-ash
4.2. SHORT SUMMARY ON USING FILL-IN FLASH
is calculated by the cameras AE system, but the ash must be activated manually before it will re. See the respective sections above for more information.

4.1.6 Slow-Shutter Sync.

In P and A modes, pressing and holding the SPOT button while taking the picture causes the 700si to use a shutter speed slightly higher than that required for normal ambient light exposure. The ash exposure is also controlled to provide proper exposure. This technique provides a natural appearance of the main subject with better ambient-lit background detail. Note: If the background is bright or a large aperture is set, the shutter speed may not be reduced.

4.1.7 Other comment

This seems to be excerpt from some mail by Phil Brandon. It is useful and clear enough to include it here. The ash-ambient programming is unchanged between the 700si and 800si. Back to the thought of the programming for ash: The camera has an Expert System which is the control for everything. It picks which focus sensor to favor, how to build the exposure pattern, how to set the shutter speed and aperture for effect, and how to balance ash with ambient. When ash is used, the most important consideration is NOT overexposing the subject by adding ash to an ablient light exposure that is already correct. (This is the key). Exposure is AF integrated. Once an AF sensor is locked in on the subject. An exposure pattern is built around it. The brightness of the subject is then compared against the background. If the subject is somewhat darker than the background (not a lot), the ambient light exposure might (probably will) be reduced up to 1 stop. However, the background in this case will still be greater and thus over exposed. The Flash duration is shortened a bit to reduce the ash exposure so the addition of ash will not produce a subject exposure that is overexposed. As the subject and background become closer in brightness the ash will power down even more. I would expect to see a slight shutter speed increase (1/60 to 1/90 or 1/125) when the ash is turned on and camera is in A mode. The key to the background either over or under is a product of the subject brightness. Sort of a by-product. It just happens. With that said: if you adjust the Ambient light exposure, you will affect the ash component as well. If you like what the ash is doing but want to increase the ambient by 1, you have to adjust the ash by 1 to make sure its exposure is the same as the unbiased setting (I know this will bring on more questions). There is no way to really know exactly what the camera is doing by looking at any controls or readouts. You can infer if you really know the system and really know the brightness levels of subject. When I am really creating, I use manual exposure mode and spot metering. I read the mid tone of the background. Compare it to the subject tones. Determine what shutter speed and aperture settings to use for affect and then dial in my own EV for ash control. Takes practice but I then Know exactly what to expect. If I am in a hurry and shooting print lm, I shoot Program with ash and it looks ne.

B.1. WIRELESS FLASH EXPERIMENT
. continued from previous page # aperture/speed position 9.5/5.6/5.6/5.6/60
position 2 5400HS wireless control + ash button 5400HS wireless control + ash button 5400HS wireless 5400HS
position 3 3600HS(D) 3600HS(D)
Experiment results and discussion
Table B.2: Wireless ash experiment: observations of camera and ashes behavior
before exposure blinking alternately glowing glowing
after exposure blinking blinking blinking
blinking alternately blinking alternately blinking alternately
blinking blinking blinking

blinking alternately

blinking
blinking alternately blinking alternately glowing blinking alternately glowing glowing
blinking blinking alternately glowing blinking blinking blinking
test ash (AEL button) one starting ash (on-camera) and one ash (off-camera) one starting ash (on-camera) and one ash (off-camera) one starting ash (on-camera) and two simultaneous ashes (off- and on-camera) one starting ash (on-camera) and two ashes (off-camera) one starting ash (on-camera) and two ashes (off-camera) one starting ash (on-camera) and two ashes (off-camera); 5400HS ashes approx. 0.5 sec after 3600HS(D) one starting ash (on-camera) and two ashes (off-camera); 5400HS ashes approx. 0.5 sec after 3600HS(D) one starting ash (on-camera) and two ashes (off-camera) 5400HS ashes approx. 0.5 sec after 3600HS(D) undistinguishable from case 1 and 2 undistinguishable from case 1 and 2
F IGURE B.1: Wireless ash experiment setup Table B.3: Wireless ash experiment: results # picture # picture
. continued from previous page # picture

picture

B.2. FLASH TEST ADI/PRE-FLASH/BOUNCE/WIRELESS
To summarize what I got from this experiment: When placing wireless ashes around your subject be careful about distances you place your ashes from the subject and the powers of ashes since you can create different ratios unintentionaly 1.
You can have ratio wireless off-camera ashes even without dedicated wireless ash controller despite what Minolta says in 5400HS ash manual. All you have to do is to set 5400HS to 2:[1] ratio and re the ashes using built-in camera ash. If you have 5400HS on-camera and you have your camera swichted to wireless mode (so that you have WIRELESS word shown on 5400HS display but not WIRELESS CONTROL!) ash works just like ordinary on-camera ash and it is unable to re any wireless ash. You need to set it to WIRELESS CONTROL mode by pressing and holding OPT button to do so. If you have 5400HS on-camera ash set to WIRELESS CONTROL and you need to use it as ll light (2:1) then you need to switch it to WIRELESS CONTROL 2:[1] mode. The way usual for built-in ash (holding ash button on camera body while shooting) seems not to work 2.