Contents

Foreword 2 Camera groups and available flash modes 3 Speedlight parts 4 LCD panel indications 5 Tips on using this manual 6 About this manual 7 Using control buttons 10

Getting started 11

Loading batteries 12 Adjusting the flash head / Selecting the distance scale 13 Attaching the SB-28 to the camera 14 Turning the SB-28 on and off / Standby function 15 The ready-light 16 Test firing 17 Setting the ISO film speed 18 Adjusting the zoom-head position 19-20 Setting the built-in wide flash adapter 21 Selecting a flash mode 22

Basic operation 23

t flash modes 24-25 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group I)26-30 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group II) 31-32 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group III)33-34 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group IV) 35-37 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group V) 38-39 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group VI) 40-41 Non-TTL Auto Flash Mode (For cameras in all groups) 42-43
Advanced operation 45 Manual Flash Mode (For cameras in all groups) 46-51 Repeating Flash " Mode 52-55 Guide Numbers for determining correct aperture in and " flash modes 56-57 Bounce flash operation 58-61 Close-up flash operation in TTL Auto Flash t Mode 62-64 Multiple flash operation in t and flash modes 65-70 Exposure compensation in flash photography (For cameras in all groups) 71-75 Red-eye reduction control (For cameras in Group I [except F5] and Pronea 600i/6i) 76 Rear-curtain flash sync 77-78 Additional information 79
Checking the correct exposure (For cameras in all groups) 80 Autofocus flash operation in dim light (For autofocus cameras only) 81-82 Optional accessories 83-85 Tips on Speedlight care 86 Notes on batteries 87-88 Troubleshooting 89-90 Specifications 91-95

Using control buttons

By pressing a single button, you can activate frequently used functions. When two buttons are pressed simultaneously, you can activate functions which are not necessary to set each time. For easy reference, refer to the chart on the back of the built-in bounce card.

M ZOOM ONLY

NO AF ILL ON /STBY

(m) / (ft)

ON/OFF

One-button operations

' [ { } ~. = To adjust the zoom-head position (P.19-20) To set the flash mode (P.22) To select and set various functions and values To increase values To decrease values To test fire the flash (P.17) To illuminate the LCD panel (P.5) To turn power on and off (P.15)

Two-button operations

'+{ '+[ +} +=.+= To set or cancel automatic zoom-head adjustment (Buttons must be pressed for 2 sec.) (P.19-20) To readjust the zoom-head position, if built-in wide flash adapter is broken off accidentally (P.21) To turn the AF assist illuminator LED on or off (P.81-82) To cancel or set the standby function (Buttons must be pushed after the flash is turned off.) (P.15) To select the distance scale (meters or feet) (P.13) (Buttons must be pushed after the flash is turned off.)

Getting started

Becoming familiar with the SB-28
Before starting to take flash pictures, you should familiarize yourself with various settings and adjustments of the SB-28, regardless of which Nikon SLR camera you are using.

Loading batteries

Four penlight batteries (1.5V or lower) of any of the following types may be used:
AA-type AA-type AA-type AA-type alkaline-manganese (1.5V) lithium (1.5V) NiCd (rechargeable) (1.2V) Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (rechargeable) (1.2V)
NOTE : AA-type high-power manganese batteries are not recommended for use with the SB-28.
See pages 87-88, Notes on batteries.
1 Open the battery chamber lid.
penlight following 2 Install fourchamber.batteriesthe battery the + and lid.symbols inside the Close chamber
Various optional external power source DC Units are available for use with the SB-28. See page 85, Using an external power source.
Do not mix battery types or brands, or use old with new batteries.
Adjusting the flash head / Selecting the distance scale

Adjusting the flash head

Hold down the flash head tilting/rotating lock release button while adjusting the flash head to the horizontal/front position.

The flash head tilts/rotates from the horizontal/front position to: 90 (up) 7 (down) 180 (left) 90 (right) The flash head has click stops at 30, 60 and 90 (to the right), 30, 60, 90 120, 150 and 180 (to the left), 7 (down), and 45, 60, 75 and 90 (up).
When the = button is pressed for approx. 0.5 sec. after adjusting the flash head to the horizontal/front position, the power turns on and the flash shooting range indicator bars _ appear on the LCD panel. They do not appear if the flash head is adjusted to a position other than the horizontal/front position. The indicator bars _ blink when the flash head is tilted down to 7.
Selecting the distance scale (meters/feet)
Set the distance scale on the LCD panel to either meters (m) or feet (ft).
1 Press the = button for approx. 0.5 sec. to turn the SB-28 off. 2 Hold down the. button as you press the = button.
To return to the former setting, repeat steps 1 and 2. m (meters) display ft (feet) display
The SB-28 is preset to meters (m) when the SB-28 is shipped from the factory.
Although meters (m) and feet (ft) appear together in this manual for ease of explanation, they do not appear simultaneously on the SB-28s LCD panel.
Attaching the SB-28 to the camera
When attaching the SB-28 to your camera, make sure both units are turned off to avoid accidentally firing the flash. the SB-28's mounting foot 1 Looseninto the cameras accessorylocking wheel and slide the SB-28 shoe.
2 Tighten the locking wheel.
With cameras equipped with a safety lock system, the mount pin is automatically inserted into the locking hole in the cameras accessory shoe to secure the SB-28.

Detaching the SB-28

To detach the SB-28, loosen the mounting foot locking wheel all the way. If the wheel doesnt loosen easily, push the foot forward gently 14 in the direction of the white arrow and try loosening the wheel again.
Turning the SB-28 on and off / Standby function

Turning power on and off

To turn the SB-28 on and off, depress and hold the = button for approx. 0.5 sec.

Standby function

If both the SB-28 and camera are not used for after approx. 80 seconds, the SB-28 shuts off automatically to conserve battery power. This is called the standby function.
Canceling and setting the standby function
1 Press the = button for approx. 0.5 sec. to turn the SB-28 off. 2 Hold down the button as you press the = button.
The SB-28s standby mode indicator : on the LCD panel appears when the function is set and disappears when it is not set. Perform steps 1 and 2 to cancel it or reset it.

The standby function is preset when the SB-28 is shipped from the factory. (Check that the standby mode indicator : appears on the LCD panel when the SB-28 is turned on.)
When carrying the SB-28 in your camera bag with the standby function set, make sure to turn off the flash unit to avoid accidental battery drain.
To turn the SB-28 on again after it enters the standby mode, you can:
Lightly press the shutter release button (except cameras in Group VII). Press the ~ button on the SB-28. Press the SB-28s = button.

The ready-light

After the SB-28 is turned on, the ready-light lights up as soon as the SB-28 is recycled and ready to fire.
Make sure the ready-light lights up before taking the picture.
The ready-light blinks when the flash fires at maximum output.
In TTL Auto Flash t or Non-TTL Auto Flash mode, if the ready-lights on the SB-28 and inside the cameras viewfinder blink for approx. 3 seconds after the picture is taken, the flash has fired at its maximum output, indicating that light may have been insufficient for correct exposure.
In that case, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject before taking any more pictures.

Replace batteries.

Replace alkaline-manganese batteries if the ready-light takes more than 30 seconds to light up. Replace lithium batteries if the readylight takes more than 10 seconds to light up. See page 87-88, Notes on batteries. Recharge NiCd or Ni-MH batteries if the ready-light takes more than 10 seconds to come on. When exhausted batteries are used in the SB-28, the zoom-head position adjustment may be activated repeatedly, producing sound inside the unit, even when the power is turned off.

Test firing

You can perform simple test firing by pressing the ~ button to ensure that the SB-28 is working properly.
1 Press the = button to turn the SB-28 on. the ready-light comes on, press the ~ button to fire 2 AfterSB-28. the
If the SB-28 enters the standby mode, press the ~ button once to turn the flash back on, then press the ~ button again to test-fire the unit.
Setting the ISO film speed
Cameras in Groups I and II
The ISO film speed is automatically set and indicated on the SB-28s LCD panel.
The usable film speed in TTL Auto Flash t mode is ISO 25 to 1000.

Matrix Balanced Fill Flash
(Applicable to F4-Series, F65-Series/N65-Series, F60-Series/N60, F50-Series/N50, F-801s/N8008s, F-801/N8008, F-601/N6006, F-601M/N6000, F-401x/N5005, Pronea 600i/6i)
This mode automatically controls flash output to keep both subject and background correctly exposed when D or non-D-type AF Nikkor lenses are used. The camera's Matrix Metering System determines the correct exposure based on the ambient light. Flash illumination brightens the main foreground subject but does not overpower the background.
Center-Weighted/Spot Fill-Flash
(Applicable to F5, F4-Series, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F70-Series/N70, F60-Series/N60,F50-Series/N50, F-801s/N8008s, F-801/N8008, F-601/N6006, F601M/N6000, F-401x/N5005)
This mode operates with Center-Weighted or Spot metering. Centerweighted fill-flash measures the entire scene, but places emphasis on the center area. Spot fill-flash reads a narrower central area or spot. Not all Nikon AF cameras provide spot fill-flash.
Programmed TTL Auto Flash
(Applicable to F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000)
In this mode, you can perform auto flash operation with the lens set to its minimum aperture (highest f-number). The camera automatically controls the aperture according to the ISO film speed.
(Applicable to F5, F4-Series, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/N80-Series, F70-Series/N70, F65-Series/N65-Series, F-801s/N8008s, F-801/N8008, F-601/N6006, F-601M/N6000, F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000, FM3A, FA, FE2, FG, Pronea 600i/6i, Nikonos V)
You manually select a flash output level so that the main subject is correctly exposed regardless of the background brightness. This system is not designed to automatically provide a balance between flash and ambient light; it is limited to efficient operation in dim-light conditions and is not recommended for use in very bright lighting conditions. This system does not directly link the cameras light meter and the SB-28s TTL sensor.

TTL Auto Flash t Mode

For cameras in Group I: F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/N80-Series, F70-Series/N70 Available flash operation in TTL Auto Flash t Mode
Lens in use D- or G-type*3 Nikkor lenses Non-D/G-type AF Nikkor lenses/ AI-P lenses Other Nikkor lenses*4 Available flash operation*1 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash t Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash t Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot FillFlash t Cameras exposure mode Desired mode Desired mode Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M) Spot Metering*2 Cameras metering system*2 Desired metering system Desired metering system Center-Weighted Metering
* All of the above flash modes can be changed to Standard TTL Flash t. *2 Only Standard TTL Flash is possible when the F5s, F100s or F80-Series/N80-Series Metering System is set to Spot Metering. *3 With a G-type Nikkor lens attached to F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F70-Series/N70 cameras, the A and M exposure modes cannot be used. *4 With a non-CPU Nikkor lens attached to F80-Series/N80-Series cameras, Standard TTL Flash can be performed. (Can only be used with exposure mode set to Manual) The cameras exposure meter cannot be used. Set and confirm the aperture using the lens aperture ring.

In Programmed auto (P, Ps) or Shutter-priority auto (S) mode: (1) Set the lens to its minimum aperture (highest f-number) (except G-type Nikkor lenses). (2) Press the shutter release button halfway and check the shooting distance range on the SB-28s LCD panel. In Aperture-priority auto (A) or Manual (M) mode: Check the indicator bars _ and the subjects distance as you rotate the cameras command dial or lens aperture ring to determine the aperture value.
Nikkor lenses without a built-in CPU
In Aperture-priority auto (A) or Manual (M) mode only: (1) While looking at the indicator bars _, press the { or } button to change the aperture and bring the subject within the flash shooting distance range. (2) Note the aperture and set it on the lens.
For cameras in Group I: F5 only
Flash shooting distance range in 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync operation (F5 only)
In combination with the F5 camera, 1/300 High-Speed Flash Sync (with Custom Setting; 1/250 sec. at normal setting) is possible. But the farthest flash shooting distance cannot be read from the indicator bars _ on the SB-28 in TTL Auto Flash t Mode. In this case, use the guide number table and equation for calculating this distance according to each zoom-head position. Guide number (at ISO 100 for m/ft)
Zoom head position Guide number 18mm 20mm 24mm 28mm 35mm 50mm 70mm 85mm 8/26 8/26 11/36 12/39 14/46 16/53 18/59 19/62
Guide number D (farthest flash shooting distance) = f/stop (aperture)
For example, when shooting with ISO 100 film, at a 35mm zoom-head position and an aperture of f/5.6:
D = 14/5.6 = 2.5 (measured in meters) D = 46/5.6 = 8.2 (measured in feet)
The farthest flash shooting distance is 2.5m (8.2ft). You can read the closest shooting distance from the SB-28s indicator bars _. For film speeds other than ISO 100, multiply the figures in the table above by the factors shown below. ISO film speed Factor 25 x 0.x 0.x 1.xx 2.8
For cameras in Group II: F4-Series, F65-Series/N65-Series, F-801s/N8008s, F-801/N8008, Pronea 600i/6i
Available flash operation in TTL Auto Flash t Mode
Lens in use*1 Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU*4 Available flash operation*2 Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash t Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/ Spot Fill-Flash*6 t Cameras exposure mode Desired mode*5 Desired mode Cameras metering system*3 Matrix Metering CenterWeighted Metering Spot Metering*3 Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M) Spot Metering*3

Flash exposure compensation in TTL Auto Flash t mode
For cameras in Groups I through III when making exposure compensation to the SB-28s flash output In the t mode, only the SB-28s flash output can be compensated without affecting the background exposure. Cameras with EV compensation capability allow you to make exposure compensation on either the SB-28 or the camera (or both). If you use both controls, exposure is modified by the sum total of both exposure compensation values and will affect the background exposure. Although the SB-28's LCD panel does not display the amount of compensation set on the camera, the shooting range indicator bars_ still automatically change to match the exposure compensation.
With cameras in Group III, make exposure compensation on the camera. The amount of compensation set on the camera does not appear on the SB-28s LCD panel.
1 Press the button until t appears on the LCD panel.
button until appears on the LCD 2 Press the [ compensation value starts blinking. panel and the exposure
3 Set the desired exposure compensation.
Press the { or } button to increase or decrease the compensation.
Exposure compensation is possible in 1/3 steps from 3.0 to +1.0 EV. The shooting range indicator bars _ automatically change according to the amount of exposure compensation.
the button 4 Press stop blinking. to make the exposure compensation value
The exposure compensation value blinks during adjustment and stops after 8 seconds unless an adjustment is made. The last blinking number is the one automatically set.
Canceling exposure compensation
Flash exposure compensation cannot be canceled by turning the SB-28 off. To cancel, reset the exposure compensation to 0.0 following the steps outlined above.
For cameras in Groups I through VI (when making exposure compensation to the SB-28s flash output and the background)
Use your camera's EV compensation control to make exposure compensation. In this mode, flash output is automatically controlled to keep both subject and background correctly exposed.
For more details, refer to your camera's instruction manual. The SB-28's LCD panel does not display the amount of compensation set on the camera. With cameras in Groups I and II, the shooting range indicator bars _ automatically change according to the amount of exposure compensation. For cameras other than those in Groups I and II, use this chart as a guide in obtaining the correct flash shooting distance range.

5 Check the shooting distance. Wait for the ready-light to come on and
make sure the subject is in focus before taking the picture.
In t, or mode, if the ready-light blinks for approx. 3 seconds after shooting, this indicates the light may have been insufficient for correct exposure. In this case, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject.

Additional information

Reference section
In this section, information on troubleshooting and optional accessories is presented. Following that are tips on Speedlight care, notes on batteries, with the SB-28s specifications coming at the end of the manual.
Checking the correct exposure
For cameras in all groups In Non-TTL Auto Flash mode, you can determine whether the subject will receive the correct exposure by test firing the SB-28 before actually taking pictures. the cameras 1 SetManual (M). exposure mode to Aperture-priority auto (A) or the SB-28s button until appears on the 2 Presspanel. LCD
3 Set the same aperture on both the SB-28 and the camera. 4 Check that the SB-28s ready-light is on. check the shooting range indicator 5 Focus on the subject andwithin range. bars _ to make sure its 6 Press the ~ button to fire the flash.
If the ready-light blinks for approx. 3 seconds after shooting, this indicates the light may have been insufficient for correct exposure. In this case, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject.
To determine if the exposure will be correct in TTL Auto Flash t mode, press the button to change the flash mode to the Non-TTL Auto Flash mode. Set the same aperture on the SB-28s LCD panel as in the t mode, then perform test firing. If the ready-light blinks for approx. 3 seconds after shooting, the light will be insufficient for correct exposure in the t mode as well.
Autofocus flash operation in dim light
For autofocus cameras only When the light is too dim for normal autofocus operation, the SB-28s AF assist illuminator LED automatically turns on when set to illuminate dark subjects when the shutter release button is pressed halfway.
Take care not to block the AF assist illuminator LED while shooting. The AF assist illuminator LED turns off as soon as the subject is in focus. The AF assist illuminator LED will not light up with an F5, F100, F80-Series/N80-Series or F65-Series/N65-Series camera unless the cameras central focus area is selected.
For autofocus cameras only
Conditions necessary to activate the AF assist illuminator LED:

Connecting the SB-28 to your camera using a sync cord
You can connect the SB-28 to your camera by attaching a sync cord to the SB-28s sync terminal.
You cannot use a sync cord when the SB-28 is set to the t mode. Usable sync cords SC-11 (approx. 25 cm) SC-15 (approx. 1m)
To connect the SB-28 to a camera without a sync terminal, use optional Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15. Use the sync/multiple flash terminal when connecting the SB-28 to other Nikon flash units via sync cords. When the SB-28 is connected to a camera via a sync cord, it provides neither automatic sync speed setting nor ready-light indication inside the cameras viewfinder. To maintain all functions, use the optional TTL Remote Cord SC-17. If a non-Nikon flash unitone incorporating a high-voltage (above 50V) or negative voltage sync circuitsis connected to the SB-28s sync/multiple flash terminal, the SB-28s protection circuit is activated, resulting in improper operation of the unit.
Available external power sources
External power source SD-7 External power source SD-8/8A* Power Bracket SK-6/6A* Use only Nikon-approved external power sources Using external power sources other than those specified by Nikon may cause damage to the SB-28. * Available in the European market only.
Using an external power source
Nikons external power source DC Units increase the number of flash firings and provide faster recycling time. (See page 93.) To use a DC Unit, connect its power cord to the SB-28's external power source terminal.
External power source terminal External power source terminal (for European market)
Even when a DC Unit is used, the SB-28 still requires batteries inside the flash unit.
Because the European version of the SB-28 comes with a different shaped connector, Nikon DC Units SD-7, SD-8 and the Power Bracket Unit SK-6 are not compatible.

Tips on Speedlight care

Avoid physical shocks Do not drop the SB-28 or hit it against a hard surface as this may damage its precision mechanisms. Never disassemble the SB-28 Never attempt to disassemble or repair the SB-28 yourself. The SB-28 contains high-voltage circuitry which can cause electric shock. Keep the SB-28 away from water The SB-28 is not waterproof and therefore should not be exposed to rain or saltwater. If water gets inside the SB-28, corrosion may occur, resulting in high repair costs. Cleaning Use a blower brush to remove dirt and dust from the SB-28 and clean it with a soft, clean cloth. Never use commercial cleaners containing thinner, benzene, or alcohol as they could damage its plastic parts. Maintenance When storing the SB-28 for two weeks or longer, remove the batteries to prevent battery leakage. Also once a month, insert fresh batteries and fire the unit several times to reform its capacitor and keep the SB-28 in top working order. Storage Store the SB-28 in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew. Also keep it away from chemicals such as camphor or naphthalene. Avoid exposing the SB-28 to magnetic waves from TVs or radios and never store it the truck or glove compartment of a vehicle during the summer.

Notes on using alkaline-manganese and lithium batteries
Non-rechargeable batteries such as alkaline-manganese and lithium batteries should not be charged in a battery charger as they may explode. Lithium batteries incorporate internal safety switches. When the battery becomes hot, its safety circuit is activated, cutting off power. This often occurs when the SB-28 is operated in the repeating flash mode. The flash ready-light will not light up after firing approx. 24 exposures. However, battery power will recover when the temperature goes back to normal.
Notes on using rechargeable NiCd and Ni-MH batteries
When recharging batteries, be sure to use the battery charger specified by the battery maker and read the instructions thoroughly. Recharging should be done in temperatures from 10 to 30C (50 to 86F). Do not recharge NiCd or Ni-MH batteries with their terminals reversed in the charger or before the batteries have cooled off sufficiently. Overcharging and excessive use may shorten battery life. Do not overcharge and be sure to turn the SB-28 off when not in use. Because flash consumes a large amount of battery power, rechargeable batteries may not operate properly before reaching the end of their stated life-span or the number of charging/discharging as specified by the battery manufacturer. If NiCd or Ni-MH batteries do not last as long as they should after being fully charged, they are approaching the end of their life. Replace them with a new set.

Troubleshooting

Camera Group All camera groups Warning indicator No J indicator appears. Cause Batteries are not correctly installed. Battery power is weak. Standby function is set and operating. Ready-light blinks for approx. 3 sec. after shooting. Power turns off. No indicator bars _ appear. Indicator bars _ blink. Zoom-head position indicator blinks. Small M above ZOOM blinks. Group I No t indicators light up. Flash fired at full output but light may have been insufficient. Batteries are exhausted. SB-28s flash head is tilted or rotated from the horizontal/front position. Flash head is tilted down -7. The ' and [ buttons are pressed simultaneously for approx. 4 sec. Zoom-head position is locked. A Nikkor lens other than one having built-in CPU is mounted. Flash mode is set to t. F5s or F100's Metering System is set to Spot Metering Ready-light and blink after picture is taken.
Q % indicators and small M above the ZOOM as well as18 or 20 blink. % blinks.

Ref. page 15 16

Light was insufficient for correct exposure. Built-in wide flash adapter is used in FP High-Speed Flash sync.
SB-28 is removed with % setting. A Nikkor lens without a built-in CPU is mounted. Flash mode is set to t. F4s Metering System is not set to Spot Metering.

No t indicators light up.
The SB-28 incorporates a microcomputer to control flash operations. In rare cases, the SB-28 may not work properly even after fresh batteries are properly installed. If this happens, replace the batteries with the SB-28's power turned on.

Warning indications

The flash ready-light in the camera's viewfinder will blink:
F90X/N90s viewfinder display is shown.
Cameras in Groups I (except F70-Series/N70), II, III, V and VI.
in the t mode, when you press the shutter release button halfway, to warn that the SB-28 has not been securely mounted on the camera or that the flash output may have been insufficient for correct exposure.
Cameras in Groups V and VI
in the t mode, to indicate that the ISO rating of the film in use is higher than the ISO set on the SB-28's LCD panel, (or lower in the case of the FA camera).

Cameras in Group VI

in the t mode, when the shutter speed is set to M90, M250, or B.
Cameras in Group VII FM3A, New FM2
to warn that t flash shooting is not possible.
when the shutter speed set is faster than the flash sync speed.

Specifications

Electronic construction Guide number Flash output level 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 1/32 1/64 Zoom-head position 18mm 20mm 24mm 28mm 35mm 50mm 70mm 85mm 20/66 30/98 32/105 36/118 42/138 48/157 50/164 22.5/74 25.5/84 30/98 16/53 18/59 21/69 34/112 36/118 24/79 17/56 25/82 18/59 12.7/42 Automatic Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) and series circuitry.

(ISO 100, m/ft)

1/1 (full) 18/59
12.7/42 14/46 21/69 9/30 10/33 15/49
6.4/21 7/23 4.5/15 5/16 2.3/8 2.5/8
10.5/35 11.3/37 12.7/42 15/49 7.5/25 8/26 3.8/13 4/13 9/30

10.5/35 12/39

3.2/10 3.5/11 5.3/17 5.7/19 6.4/21 7.5/25 8.5/28 9/30 4.5/15 5.3/17 6.0/20 6.3/21
See page 51 for details on guide numbers in FP HighSpeed Sync Flash and see also page 30 for details on guide numbers in 1/300 TTL High-Speed Sync Flash. Angle of coverage (Variable in 6 steps, plus 2-steps with built-in wide flash adapter) Flash head in horizontal/front position Zoom-head position Vertical 18mm (with built-in wide flash adapter in place) 20mm (with built-in wide flash adapter in place) 24mm 28mm 35mm 50mm 70mm 85mm 90 Angle of coverage Horizontal 102
Flash duration (approx.) 1/840 sec. 1/1100 sec. 1/2300 sec. 1/4800 sec. 1/9100 sec. 1/19000 sec. 1/28000 sec. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1/1 (full) output 1/2 outut 1/4 outut 1/8 output 1/16 output 1/32 output 1/64 output

Bounce capability

Flash head tilts down to 7 or up to 90 with click-stops at 7, 45, 60, 75, 90; flash head rotates horizontally 180 to the left with click-stops at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180 and 90 to the right with click stops at 30, 60, 90 Press the = button for approx. 0.5 sec. to turn the SB28 on or off. When the SB-28 is not used for approx. 80 sec. the SB-28 automatically turns itself off to conserve battery power. To turn the SB-28 back on, press the = button. Selected by button Available flash operation

No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORATION.
FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100-8331, JAPAN
Printed in Japan T2B0201603 (S904) 11

Autofocus Speedlight

SB-28DX

NIKON CORPORATION

Instruction Manual
FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100-8331, JAPAN
Printed in Japan T1C1000301 (S842) 43
No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORATION.

English

J E FC S

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Autofocus Speedlight SB-28DX. The SB-28DX is a special version of the Nikon Speedlight SB-28 that features a D-TTL Auto Flash mode for Nikon Digital SLR cameras, and an Auto Aperture (AA) mode for Nikon Digital SLR cameras and Kodak DCS600 Series digital cameras. This instruction manual describes how to use the SB-28DX in the D-TTL Auto Flash mode with Digital SLR cameras and the AA mode with Digital SLR cameras and Kodak DCS600 Series cameras. Of course, the SB-28DX works well with film-based Nikon cameras such as the F5 and F100.

SB-28DX settings

Select the flash mode.
3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash or Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLR cameras Center-Weighted Fill-Flash for Digital SLR cameras
Notes on using the SB-28DX

t t t

Before using the SB-28DX, please read carefully the notes on safety operations especially the cautionsappearing in the SB-28 instruction manual provided in the same package. Read the instruction manuals of the SB-28, SB-28DX, and the camera you are using in combination with this unit. When you see the note + page xx, this indicates the page to refer to in the SB-28 instruction manual.
Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLR cameras
Usable cameras and their respective instruction manuals
Available flash modes with Nikon Digital SLR cameras D-TTL Auto Flash mode for Digital SLR cameras* (refer to this manual). Auto Aperture (AA) mode (refer to this manual). Non-TTL Auto Flash A mode (refer to the SB-28s manual). Manual M mode (including FP High-Speed Flash sync FP) (refer to the SB-28s manual). Repeating Flash mode (refer to the SB-28s manual). * Four TTL auto flash modes are available depending on the type of Nikkor lenses you are using. In
this manual, all available TTL modes are generally referred to as D-TTL Auto Flash mode for Digital SLR cameras or D-TTL Auto Flash mode.
Press the button once to display D t or D t on the LCD panel. Press the button again to display D t on the LCD panel.
Press the button until appears on the LCD panel in either AA (Auto Aperture) or A (non-TTL auto) mode. In AA mode, the exposure compensation indicator and exposure compensation value appear on the LCD panel simultaneously. When the flash unit is mounted on the Kodak DCS620 camera and turned on for the first time, the AA mode is always activated.
Check the shooting distance using the flash shooting range indicator bars.
Wait for the ready-light to come on before taking the picture.
400 A B C 64 D 5.4 5.45 64
200 100/80 18mm 2.5.2.5.0.8-9

20mm 0.9-10

24mm 1.4-15 1.0-10

28mm 1.5-16 1.0-11

35mm 1.6-18 1.2-12 0.8-9.0
50mm 1.9-20 1.4-14 1.0-10
70mm 2.2-20 1.5-16 1.1-12
85mm 2.2-20 1.6-17 1.1-12

0.6-6.3 0.7-7.0

Notes: Because Digital SLR cameras are not listed in the camera groups in the SB-28 instruction manual, refer to the information for Cameras in Group I. TTL Auto Flash Mode as described in the SB-28 instruction manual is not possible. Multiple flash operation using the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 is not possible. Use the AA or A mode. TTL multiple flash operation using a sync or remote cord such as TTL Remote Cord SC-17 or TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-18 or SC-19 is not possible. Available flash modes with Kodak DCS600 Series digital cameras Auto Aperture (AA) mode (refer to this manual). Non-TTL Auto Flash A mode (refer to the SB-28s manual). Manual M mode (including FP High-Speed Flash sync FP) (refer to the SB-28s manual). Repeating Flash mode (refer to the SB-28s manual). Notes: Because DCS600 Series cameras are not listed in the camera groups in the SB-28 instruction manual, refer to the information for Cameras in Group I. TTL Auto Flash Mode as described in the SB-28 instruction manual is not possible. D-TTL Auto Flash mode for Digital SLR cameras is not possible. Multiple flash operation using the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 is possible. TTL multiple flash operation using a sync or remote cord such as TTL Remote Cord SC-17 or TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-18 or SC-19 is not possible.
A flash shooting distance range of 0.8 to 6m (3 to 20 ft.) is shown.
If the subject is out of range, change the aperture on the camera to bring the subject within the flash shooting distance range.
If the ready-light blinks for approx. 3 seconds after the picture is taken, this indicates the flash fired at maximum output, meaning that light may have been insufficient for correct exposure. In that case, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject before taking the next picture by referring to Table 2. To check the correct flash shooting distance range before taking the picture Point the camera at the subject. After pressing the shutter release button lightly, press the ~ button on the SB-28DX. If the ready-light blinks for approx. 3 seconds, this indicates the flash fired at maximum output, meaning that light may have been insufficient for correct exposure. In this case, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject by referring to Table 2 before taking the actual picture. Table 2: Usable aperture/flash shooting distance ranges in AA (Auto Aperture) and A (non-TTL Auto Flash) modes Use this table to determine the distance range in which the correct auto flash exposure will be obtained at various ISO sensitivity levels, aperture, and zoom settings.

ISO number (f/number)

A 5.D 5.200 100/80 18mm 0.8-9 2.2.6-29 0.6-6.2.8 2.2-20 0.6-4.5 5.2.0-5.6 0.6-3.1 2.0-10 0.6-2.8 2.0-7.11 0.6-1.5 2.0-5.16 0.6-1.1 2.0-3.22 0.6-0.7 2.0-2.32
0.6-4.5 0.6-5.0 0.7-7.5 0.7-8.0 0.6-3.1 0.6-3.5 0.6-5.3 0.6-5.6 0.6-2.2 0.6-2.5 0.6-3.7 0.6-4.0 0.6-1.5 0.6-1.7 0.6-2.6 0.6-2.8 0.6-1.1 0.6-1.2 0.6-1.8 0.6-2.0 0.6-0.7 0.6-0.8 0.6-1.3 0.6-1.4 0.6 0.6-0.9 0.6-1.0
0.7-6.3 0.7-7.4 0.8-8.4 0.8-8.8 0.6-4.5 0.6-5.2 0.6-6.0 0.6-6.2 0.6-3.1 0.6-3.7 0.6-4.2 0.6-4.4 0.6-2.2 0.6-2.6 0.6-3.0 0.6-3.1 0.6-1.5 0.6-1.8 0.6-2.1 0.6-2.2 0.6-1.1 0.6-1.3 0.6-1.5 0.6-1.5

LCD panel

The LCD panel on the SB-28DX differs slightly from that of the SB-28 (+ pages 45).
Flash mode indicator for Digital SLR cameras
If the ready-light and the underexposure indicator blink for approx. 3 seconds after the picture is taken, this indicates the flash fired at maximum output, meaning that light may have been insufficient for correct exposure. In that case, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject before taking the next picture by referring to the amount of underexposure (up to 3 EV) appearing on the LCD panel. (If 1.0 is displayed, reshoot using an aperture that is at least one stop wider.)
Underexposure indicator Amount of underexposure
Distance range according to zoom settings (Upper figures are in meters, lower figures are in feet.)
20mm 0.9-10 2.9-32 0.7-7.0 2.1-23 0.6-5.0 2.0-16 0.6-3.5 2.0-11 0.6-2.5 2.0-8.2 0.6-1.7 2.0-5.7 0.6-1.2 2.0-4.1 0.6-0.8 2.0-2.8 0.6 2.0 24mm 1.4-15 4.4-49 1.0-10 3.1-34 0.7-7.5 2.2-24 0.6-5.3 2.0-17 0.6-3.7 2.2-12 0.6-2.6 2.0-8.6 0.6-1.8 2.0-6.1 0.6-1.3 2.0-4.3 0.6-0.9 2.0-3.0 28mm 1.5-16 4.7-52 1.0-11 3.3-37 0.7-8.0 2.4-26 0.6-5.6 2.0-18 0.6-4.0 2.0-13 0.6-2.8 2.0-9.2 0.6-2.0 2.0-6.5 0.6-1.4 2.0-4.6 0.6-1.0 2.0-3.2 35mm 1.6-18 5.2-59 1.2-12 3.7-41 0.8-9.0 2.6-29 0.7-6.3 2.0-20 0.6-4.5 2.0-14 0.6-3.1 2.0-10 0.6-2.2 2.0-7.3 0.6-1.5 2.0-5.2 0.6-1.1 2.0-3.6 50mm 1.9-20 6.1-66 1.4-14 4.3-48 1.0-10 3.0-34 0.7-7.4 2.2-24 0.6-5.2 2.0-17 0.6-3.7 2.0-12 0.6-2.6 2.0-8.6 0.6-1.8 2.0-6.0 0.6-1.3 2.0-4.3 70mm 2.2-20 7.0-66 1.5-16 4.9-55 1.1-12 3.5-39 0.8-8.4 2.5-27 0.6-6.0 2.0-19 0.6-4.2 2.0-13 0.6-3.0 2.0-9.8 0.6-2.1 2.0-6.9 0.6-1.5 2.0-4.9 85mm 2.2-20 7.2-66 1.6-17 5.1-57 1.1-12 3.6-41 0.8-8.8 2.6-28 0.6-6.2 2.0-20 0.6-4.4 2.0-14 0.6-3.1 2.0-10 0.6-2.2 2.0-7.2 0.6-1.5 2.0-5.1
Taking flash photographs in the D-TTL Auto Flash mode
64 5.5.200 2.5.45 18mm 0.8-9 0.6-6.3 0.6-4.5 0.6-3.1 0.6-2.2 0.6-1.5 0.6-1.1 0.6-0.7 20mm 0.9-10 0.7-7.0 0.6-5.0 0.6-3.5 0.6-2.5 0.6-1.7 0.6-1.2 0.6-0.8 0.6 24mm 1.4-15 1.0-10 0.7-7.5 0.6-5.3 0.6-3.7 0.6-2.6 0.6-1.8 0.6-1.3 0.6-0.9 28mm 1.5-16 1.0-11 0.7-8.0 0.6-5.6 0.6-4.0 0.6-2.8 0.6-2.0 0.6-1.4 0.6-1.0 35mm 1.6-18 1.2-12 0.8-9.0 0.7-6.3 0.6-4.5 0.6-3.1 0.6-2.2 0.6-1.5 0.6-1.1 50mm 1.9-20 1.4-14 1.0-10 0.7-7.4 0.6-5.2 0.6-3.7 0.6-2.6 0.6-1.8 0.6-1.3 70mm 2.2-20 1.5-16 1.1-12 0.8-8.4 0.6-6.0 0.6-4.2 0.6-3.0 0.6-2.1 0.6-1.5 85mm 2.2-20 1.6-17 1.1-12 0.8-8.8 0.6-6.2 0.6-4.4 0.6-3.1 0.6-2.2 0.6-1.5

In this mode, the SB-28DX fires a series of nearly invisible preflashes, called the Monitor Preflash. These preflashes are detected by the cameras TTL multi-sensor to control the flash output, ensuring correct exposure. Data such as the cameras ISO setting, aperture, focal length, and exposure compensation value are automatically transmitted to the SB-28DX (with Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU mounted.) The following four flash modes are possible depending on the type of lens mounted. Lens mounted
D/G-type AF Nikkor lenses
You can recall the amount of underexposure last shown on the LCD panel by pressing the. button. Table 1: Usable aperture/flash shooting distance ranges in D-TTL Auto Flash mode Use this table to determine the distance range in which the correct auto flash exposure will be obtained at various ISO sensitivity levels, aperture, and zoom settings.
800 5.5.200 2.5.45 18mm 0.8-9 2.6-29 0.6-6.3 2.2-20 0.6-4.5 2.0-14 0.6-3.1 2.0-10 0.6-2.2 2.0-7.3 0.6-1.5 2.0-5.2 0.6-1.1 2.0-3.6 0.6-0.7 2.0-2.6
Flash exposure compensation
In AA mode, flash output compensation is possible in 1/3 steps from 3.0 to +1.0EV by pressing the { or } button to increase or decrease the compensation while confirming the amount on the LCD panel. Note that flash output compensation is restricted in Zones A to D. Zone A: Minus flash output compensation is not possible. Zone B: Flash output compensation exceeding 1EV is not possible. Zone C: Flash output compensation exceeding 2EV is not possible. Zone D: Flash output compensation from 0 to +1EV is not possible. If flash output compensation is made exceeding the amount of the above values, the flash shooting range indicator bars disappear and the aperture, exposure compensation indicator, and exposure compensation value blink to warn you. Exposure compensation on the camera is possible. Refer to your cameras instruction manual for information. Exposure compensation can be made on both the SB-28DX and the camera. The exposure is controlled by the sum total of both exposure compensation values and the shooting range indicator bars changes to match the exposure compensation. However, the SB-28DXs LCD panel displays the amount of compensation set on the SB-28DX only.

Available flash LCD panel Flash operation mode*
3D Multi-Sensor D t Monitor preflash data is integrated with the Balanced Fill-Flash distance information from D-type Nikkor for Digital SLRs lenses to obtain correct TTL auto flash operation. Multi-Sensor D t Based on cameras Matrix Metering system and monitor preflash data, flash output is Balanced Fill-Flash automatically controlled to keep both for Digital SLRs subject and background correctly exposed. Center-Weighted Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs
Non-D/Gtype AF Nikkor lenses

"

"
Nikkor lenses without a built-in CPU 8.12.7 9
D t Measuring background ambient light
using Center-Weighted metering system, flash output is controlled using monitor preflash data to keep both subject and background correctly exposed.
For your information Flash exposure compensation
Flash output compensation is possible in 1/3 steps from 3.0 to +1.0EV by pressing the { or } button to increase or decrease the compensation while confirming the amount on the LCD panel (+ pages 71-73.) Exposure compensation on the camera is possible. Refer to your cameras instruction manual on how to set it. Exposure compensation can be made on both the SB-28DX and the camera. The exposure is controlled by the sum total of both exposure compensation values and the shooting range indicator bars change to match the exposure compensation. However, the SB-28DXs LCD panel displays the amount of compensation set on the SB-28DX only. ISO 200 guide numbers(m/ft)in the Manual and Repeating Flash " Modes (at 20C/68F) (+ pages 56-60)
Flash output level 1/1 Full 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 1/32 1/64 Zoomp-head position 18mm 25/84 18/59 12.7/42 9/30 6.4/21 4.5/15 3.2/10 20mm 28/93 20/66 14/46 10/33 7/23 5/16 3.5/11 24mm 42/139 30/98 21/69 15/49 10.5/35 7.5/25 5.3/17 28mm 45/148 32/105 22.5/74 16/53 11.3/37 8/26 5.7/19 35mm 51/167 36/118 25.5/84 18/59 12.7/42 9/30 6.4/21 50mm 59/195 42/138 30/98 21/69 15/49 10.5/35 7.5/25 70mm 68/223 48/157 34/112 24/79 17/56 12/39 8.5/28 85mm 71/232 50/164 36/118 25/82 18/59 12.7/42 9/30

18mm 20mm 24mm 28mm 35mm 50mm 70mm 85mm 1/1 Full 1/2 1/4 1/18 12.6.4 4.5 3.5 3.15 10.5 7.5 5.32 22.11.5.36 25.12.6.10.5 7.5
Standard TTL (D t ) Flash operation is performed by measuring monitor preflashes using the TTL multi-sensors entire segment area with emphasis placed on the central segment. * When the cameras metering system is set to Spot Metering, the Standard TTL Flash mode for Digital SLRs is set.

1/16 1/32 1/64 t

Camera settings
Set the ISO sensitivity level.
Refer to Digital SLRs instruction manual for details on setting.

Set the exposure mode.

ISO + + 80 0.0.1.2.827
With Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU: Use your desired exposure mode. With Nikkor lenses without a built-in CPU: Use Aperture-priority auto (A) or Manual (M) mode.
Taking flash photographs in the Auto Aperture (AA) mode for Digital SLR and Kodak DCS600 Series cameras
In this mode, the correct exposure for both subject and background is automatically obtained. The SB-28DXs built-in sensor controls the flash output in combination with data transmitted from the camera and lens to the SB-28DX, including the ISO sensitivity level, aperture, focal length, and exposure compensation value. AA (Auto Aperture) mode only works when using the Digital SLR or DCS600 Series cameras when Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU (except IX Nikkor lenses and AF Nikkor lenses for the F3AF) are mounted (+ page 7). The AA mode is automatically switched to Non-TTL Auto Flash A mode (+ page 42) when Nikkor lenses without a built-in CPU are mounted.
Adjustment factors for other ISO sensitivity levels
ISO Factor 80 0.0.1.2.827

Set the aperture.

With Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU: Set the lens aperture to its minimum (largest f-number) except G-type lenses. Then set the aperture on the camera. Refer to Table 1: Usable aperture/flash shooting distance ranges in D-TTL Auto Flash mode. With Nikkor lenses without a built-in CPU: Set the aperture on the lens. In this case, the aperture set on the SB-28DXs LCD panel does not directly link the aperture set on the lens. To check the flash shooting distance range before shooting, select the aperture on the lens and set the same aperture on the SB-28DXs LCD panel by pressing the SB-28DXs { or } button, then confirm the flash shooting distance range using the flash shooting range indicator bars on the LCD panel.
For sensitivity levels other than ISO 200, multiply the guide numbers by the factors shown in the above table.
Refer to the cameras instruction manual for details.
Set the exposure mode to A (Aperture-priority) or P (Programmed auto).
When using the M (Manual) or S (Shutter-priority auto) exposure mode, make sure the aperture is within the range.