Contents

FOR THE SAFE USE OF YOUR FLASH UNIT... 1 Precautions for Your Flash Unit.. 3 Names of Parts... 6 Inserting the Batteries.. 12
Using the Optional External Power Source. 13 Charging the AF540FGZ with the Optional External Power Source. Switching the Charging Mode.. Auto Power Off Function.. Quick Power On Function.. Major bundled items.. 9 LCD Panel Indicator.. 10 Cautions Regarding Batteries.. 4

Advanced Functions.. 38

Wireless Mode.. Slave... Slave Mode Setting.. Slow-Speed Sync Photography. Bounce Flash.. AF Spotbeam.. Wide-Angle Panel and Catchlight Panel. Modeling Flash/Test Flash.. Connecting the AF540FGZ with the Extension Cord.. Cameras that Support Each Flash Mode.. Cameras that Support Each Sync Mode.. Cameras that Support Wireless Mode. Cameras that Support Slow-Speed Sync Mode... Functions Related to Each Flash Mode. Sync Mode Restrictions. Precautions When Photographing with a Slave Flash...
High-Speed Sync Mode. 34 Contrast Control Sync Flash.. 58 59
Mounting to Camera... 14 Turning the Power On.. 15
Supported Functions for PENTAX Cameras... 60
Select Button (S)/Adjustment Dial Functions.. 18 Camera Format and Flash Coverage Angle.. 20 Using the Flash Modes. 25
P-TTL Auto Flash... TTL Auto Flash.. Auto Flash.. Manual Flash..

Procedure.. 18

Flash Effective Range.. 80

Using the Sync Mode.. 32

Leading Curtain Sync Mode.. 33 Trailing Curtain Sync Mode.. 33
Optional Accessories.. 87 Specifications... 88 Warranty Policy.. 91 5
Calculating the Flash Effective Range. 80 Guide Number (GN).. 82 P-TTL and TTL Auto Flash Effective Range.. 85

Names of Parts

Bounce angle adjustment LCD panel Flash mode button Select button Adjustment dial LCD panel illumination button/ Format button Zoom button/ Channel button Test button/ Modeling button/ Ready lamp Setting switch Power switch Wireless mode button Sync mode switch Bounce lock release button Battery chamber cover Shoe lock pin Flash signal contacts Shoe foot Locking lever

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> S
5P Sync socket External power source socket Socket cover Slave sensor Wide-angle panel Catchlight panel Flash head AF spotbeam emitter Auto flash sensor

R " [ W

Major bundled items
Stand Case Operating manual (this manual) Certification

Opening of the stand

Slide the hot shoe bracket into the opening of the stand. You cannot attach the off-camera shoe adapter F to the bundled stand. When attaching the flash unit to the stand, do not tighten the locking lever too far. Tightening too far may cause the locking lever to not lock sufficiently when the flash unit is removed from the stand and attached to the hot shoe of the camera.

LCD Panel Indicator

Zoom indicator : A.Zoom M.Zoom xxmm = 20, 24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 85 (35 mm format) 35, 45, 55, 70, 100, 135, 150 (645 format) 55, 60, 70, 90, 120, 180, 190 (67 format) 13, 16, 19, 24, 34, 48, 58 (DIGITAL format) : 35mm DIGITAL : P-TTL A M SB : -3.0 to +1.0 steps, 0.5 step increments : ISO 25 to 1600 : Minimum distance - Maximum distance (in P-TTL, TTL, A modes) Minimum distance (in manual mode) : SB : : : NN/ X X : F2 to F22 (When set to ISO 100) : 1 to 4CH : MASTER, CONTROL, SLAVE (Leading curtain sync) (Trailing curtain sync) control sync) (High-speed sync) (Contrast
Format indicator Flash mode indicator Flash output compensation indicator ISO indicator Bar graph Effective flash range indicator AF spotbeam Sync mode indicator Bounce flash warning Flash output adjustment indicator f/stop Channel indicator Wireless mode indicator

> @

When in poorly lit locations and the LCD panel cannot be seen, pressing the LCD panel illumination button (LIGHT) will illuminate the panel for about 10 seconds. Pressing it again will turn off the illumination. The camera's LCD panel lights up also when you press the LCD illumination button (LIGHT) and the exposure metering timer is on for the following camera. MZ-S

Auto Check Display

If the correct flash output is obtained, the flash mode indicator and ( ) in the viewfinder will begin blinking. If the auto check display does not blink, the flash output is insufficient. Verify the effective flash range (refer to page 80) and adjust the distance to the subject, or open the aperture further. Even if the auto check display is blinking, the flash output may be incorrect if the subject is too close. Depending on the combination of flash mode and camera, the auto check display may not display correctly

Inserting the Batteries

Slide the battery chamber cover as shown in the figure to open.
Insert four AA batteries, making sure the plus/ minus markings (+, -) match the diagram inside the battery chamber cover.

Types of Batteries

This flash unit uses four AA batteries of the same type, as shown below. - Alkaline battery (LR6) - Lithium battery (FR6) - Nickel-Metal Hydride battery (Ni-MH) (Nickel manganese (Ni-Mn) and nickel cadmium (NiCd) batteries cannot be used.) For information about recycling times and total number of flashes, refer to Specifications on page 88. If the indicators on the LCD panel or the ready lamp does not light up, the batteries may be exhausted or not inserted correctly. Verify the orientation of the batteries or, if the indicators and ready lamp still do not light up, replace them with new batteries. If you let the flash unit discharge successively using lithium batteries, the batteries will overheat, activating a safety circuit that temporarily disables the flash unit. If this occurs, rest the flash unit so that the temperature of the batteries returns to normal.

Trailing Curtain Sync Mode
In this sync mode, the flash is discharged at the instant the second curtain begins its travel. This mode will freeze the subject with a blur appearing after the subject under a slow shutter speed condition. Refer to page 33 for instructions on how to use this sync mode.

High-Speed Sync Mode

This sync mode will enable flash synchronization with shutter speeds faster than the X-sync speed. Since there is no sync speed limitation, high-speed sync is effective for fill-flash in daylight. Refer to page 34 for instructions on how to use this sync mode.
Contrast Control Sync Mode
This sync mode enables you to photograph with multiple flash units, utilizing the difference of the light intensity of each flash unit. The ratio of flash light intensity between the flash unit set to this sync mode and the other flash unit is 1:2. Refer to page 36 for instructions on how to use this sync mode.
Leading Curtain Sync Mode
This is the most commonly used sync mode. In this mode, the flash discharges at the instant the first shutter curtain completes its travel. You can use this mode with the shutter speed set to the X-sync speed or slower. Refer to page 33 for instructions on how to use this sync mode.
Refer to page 32 for the features and conditions of use of this sync mode.
Set the power switch to the (ON) position. Set the sync mode switch to leading curtain sync ( ). Confirm that the subject is within the effective flash range and the ready lamp is lit. Then take a picture.
Confirm that the subject is within the effective flash range and the ready lamp is lit. Then take a picture. The flash unit will switch to the trailing curtain sync mode when the shutter release button is pressed halfway down.
Set the power switch to the (ON) position. Set the sync mode switch to trailing curtain sync ( ).
Refer to page 32 for the features and conditions of use of this sync mode. As can be seen in the table on page 84, as the shutter speed becomes faster, the guide number becomes smaller. Accordingly, it should be noted that the distance for taking pictures would become shorter.

Set the sync mode switch to high-speed sync ( ). The flash will be set to high-speed sync mode and ( ) will be shown on the LCD panel only when the shutter speed exceeds X-sync speed.
Turn on the camera. Set the exposure mode to a mode other than the Programmed AE. Attach the flash unit to the cameras hot shoe and turn it on.
To set exposure compensation, press the select button (S) so that (0.0) blinks. Then turn the adjustment dial to set the exposure compensation amount. Press the select button (S) again to stop the blinking. The exposure compensation amount can be set from +1.0 to -3.0 steps in 0.5-step increments. (Refer to page 18.) Set the zoom position. (The setting method differs according to your camera and lens. Refer to page 21.)
Confirm that the subject is within the effective flash range and the ready lamp is lit. Then take a picture. Please read the camera operating manual for camera operation. High-speed sync is possible with the camera separated (wireless) from the AF540GZ. (Refer to page 46.)
Check the flash range by looking at the bar graph on the LCD panel.
Contrast Control Sync Flash
Refer to page 32 for the features and conditions of use of this sync mode. Refer to Connecting the AF540FGZ with the Extension Cord on page 59 on using the AF540FGZ detached from the camera.
Set the zoom position. (The setting method differs according to your camera and lens. Refer to page 21.) If the AF540FGZ is much closer to the subject than the flash unit to be used in combination, use (M.Zoom) to set the zoom position to a shorter lens focal length.
Turn on the power switch. Set the sync mode switch to contrast-control ( ).
Turn on the flash units to be used in combination.
If the camera's built-in flash unit is part of the combination, pop up the built-in flash. Confirm that the subject is within the effective flash range and the ready lamp is lit. Then take a picture.

With a single flash

With contrast control sync flash
If you are using a single flash unit, you can only perform leading curtain sync photography when the sync mode switch is set to contrast-control ( ).

Advanced Functions

Wireless Mode
With the AF540FGZ, you can take photographs with the flash unit separated from the camera wirelessly in P-TTL mode. Combine the flash unit with the built-in flash unit of the camera or another AF540FGZ attached to the camera. The AF360FGZ can be used interchangeably with AF540FGZ flash units for wireless mode photography. Before photographing, confirm the following. 1. Whether your camera supports this function. Cameras that Support Wireless Mode (page 63) 2. Whether you can use this function with the combination of your camera and the flash mode you have set. Functions Related to Each Flash Mode (page 64 - 71) 3. Whether the slave mode is set to SL1. Slave Mode Setting (page 52)
Notes on Wireless Flash Control (P-TTL photography)
When using the AF540FGZ in wireless mode, the following information is transferred between the flash units attached to the camera and separated from the camera, before the flash units are discharged. Shutter release button is fully pressed. The flash attached to the camera emits a small control flash (relays the flash mode of the camera). The external AF540FGZ emits a pre-flash (verifies the state of the subject). The flash attached to the camera emits a small control flash (relays the flash output amount to the external AF540FGZ). The flash attached to the camera will emit a preflash once more after this to relay the flash duration time when HS (high-speed sync) is set. The external AF540FGZ discharges the main flash (where both flash units discharge main flashes, refer to page 44).
Control Flash and Main Flash The purpose of the control flash of the wireless mode is to send information to the other flash unit before taking a picture. The main flash discharges at the actual time a picture is taken in the same manner as traditionally done. When setting up a flash unit separately from the camera, use the off-camera shoe adapter F when using a tripod, or the off-camera shoe clip CL-10 when setting up in another location such as tabletop, chair, etc. Keep the distance from the built-in flash unit and AF540FGZ to the subject within 4 meters.
Using the AF540FGZ in Combination with a Built-in Flash Unit

Setting switch

The AF540FGZ can be used in combination with a built-in flash unit only when used with the following cameras. *ist D, *ist, MZ-S, MZ-L/ZX-L/MZ-6, K10D (NOTE), K20D, K200D (NOTE) However, this requires the firmware to be updated to Version 1.10 or later. Download the firmware for the K10D from the following URL, and install it on your camera. http://www.pentax.jp/english/support/download_digital.html You may also contact your nearest PENTAX service center for firmware updates. (This will involve a fee.)

Firstly, set the wireless mode and channel of the AF540FGZ, and register them on the camera. Turn the camera off and then attach the AF540FGZ to the hot shoe of the camera. Set the power switch of the flash unit to (WIRELESS). Press the wireless mode button (M/C/S) the number of times required to display SLAVE on the LCD panel. You cannot set the flash unit to SLAVE while the exposure metering timer is on (while information relating to aperture etc. is displayed in the viewfinder). Slide down the setting switch to the (yellow dot) to display the channel on the LCD panel. Press the channel button (CH) and select a channel from 1CH to 4CH. Slide the setting switch back up to the (white dot). When you turn the camera on and press the shutter release button halfway down, the channel is registered on the camera.
Next, remove the flash unit from the camera and place it in the desired position. Press the flash mode button (MODE) to display (P-TTL) if the flash mode was set to the modes other than P-TTL auto.
Enable the built-in flash unit of the camera and set the camera flash mode to (WIRELESS).
Confirm that the AF540FGZ and built-in flash unit are fully charged, and take the photograph. A lamp on the AF540FGZ will blink. In the P-TTL mode, flash output setting (1/1, 2/3, 1/2, and 1/3) and flash output compensation (-3.0 to +1.0) are possible. (Refer to page 18.) The flash mode on the camera must be set to (WIRELESS), otherwise the AF540FGZ will not discharge. By changing the camera's function settings, you can set the built-in flash unit so that it is not the main flash. Refer to the operating manual for the camera to find out how. For test flash, refer to page 58.
When Attaching the AF540FGZ to the Camera for Control Flash

Main flash

Control flash only: not used for main flash
(Preparation of Flash Unit Attached to Camera)
Firstly, set the wireless mode and channel of the flash unit attached to the camera, and register them on the camera. Attach the AF540FGZ to the hot shoe of the camera after turning the camera off.

Set the power switch of the flash unit to (WIRELESS). Press the wireless mode button (M/C/S) the number of times required to display CONTROL on the LCD panel. Slide down the setting switch to the (yellow dot) to display the channel on the LCD panel. Press the channel button (CH) and select a channel from 1CH to 4CH. Slide the setting switch back up to the (white dot).
When you turn the camera on and press the shutter release button halfway down, the channel of the flash unit is registered on the camera.
(Preparation of Separated Flash Unit)
Next, set the channel of the separated (wireless) flash unit to the same channel as the flash unit attached to the camera. Place the other AF540FGZ in the desired position. Set the power switch of the flash unit to (WIRELESS). Press the wireless mode button (M/C/S) the number of times required to display SLAVE on the LCD panel. Slide down the setting switch to the (yellow dot) to display the channel on the LCD panel. Press the channel button (CH) and select the same channel that the flash unit attached to the camera has been set to. Slide the setting switch back up to the (white dot). The two flash units must be set to the same channel, otherwise the separated flash unit will not discharge.

(Photographing)

Confirm that both flash units are fully charged, and take the photograph. A lamp on the wireless flash unit will blink.
When Using Both an AF540FGZ Attached to the Camera and a Separated Flash Unit as Main Flashes
Use both flash units as main flashes
Set the power switch of the flash unit to (WIRELESS). Press the wireless mode button (M/C/S) the number of times required to display MASTER on the LCD panel. Slide down the setting switch to the (yellow dot) to display the channel on the LCD panel. Press the channel button (CH) and select a channel from 1CH to 4CH.
Slide the setting switch back up to the (white dot). When you turn the camera on and press the shutter release button halfway down, the channel of the flash unit is registered on the camera.
Wireless High-Speed Sync Photography
(Using the AF540FGZ in Combination with a Built-in Flash Unit)
Firstly, set the wireless mode and channel of the AF540FGZ, and register them on the camera. Turn the camera off and then attach the AF540FGZ to the hot shoe of the camera. Set the power switch of the flash unit to (WIRELESS). Press the wireless mode button (M/C/S) the number of times required to display SLAVE on the LCD panel.
You cannot set the flash unit to SLAVE while the exposure metering timer is on (while information relating to aperture etc. is displayed in the viewfinder). Slide down the setting switch to the (yellow dot) to display the channel on the LCD panel. Press the channel button (CH) and select a channel from 1CH to 4CH. Slide the setting switch back up to the (white dot).

Pull out both the wide-angle panel and catchlight panel.
Catchlight panel Wide-angle panel

1.Wide-angle panel

The wide-angle panel expands flash coverage angle for the following lenses. The flash zoom position will be fixed at the same position as the focal length of the lens. 13 mm for digital camera, 20 mm for 35 mm camera, 35mm for 645 camera, 55mm for 67 camera.
Modeling Flash/Test Flash
Before taking the picture, firing a modeling flash helps you to see how shadows are cast on the subject.
Cameras Capable of Modeling Flash or Test Flash Photography Using the Camera Button
With the following cameras, a button on the camera can be used instead of the modeling button (MODELING) or the test button (TEST). This operation can be carried out with either an attached flash unit or a wireless flash unit. For information on how to arrange this, refer to the operating manual for the camera. *ist D: You can use the OK button. (Refer to "Custom Function Chart" in the camera's operating manual.) *ist: You can use the flash pop-up button. (Refer to "Setting the Custom Function" in the camera's operating manual.) MZ-S: You can use the LCD illuminator button. (Refer to "PENTAX Functions" in the camera's operating manual.)

Modeling Flash

After firing the modeling flash, slide the setting switch up (white dot). To prevent the flash tube from overheating or deteriorating, do not discharge the modeling flash more than 10 consecutive times. After the tenth time, let the flash unit rest for at least 10 minutes.
Slide the setting switch down (yellow dot). Check that the flash is ready, then press the modeling button (MODELING). The flash will discharge continuously for one second.

Test Flash

Check that the flash is ready, then press the test button (TEST). The test flash will discharge.
Connecting the AF540FGZ with the Extension Cord
When using the AF540FGZ separately from the camera connected by an extension cord, use the optional extension cord F5P/F5P L. Attach the extension cord F5P/F5P L to the camera using the optional hot shoe adapter FG or the optional hot shoe adapter F (refer to the diagram on the right). When using the AF540FGZ in combination with the built-in flash unit of the following cameras, use the hot shoe adapter FG. If you use the hot shoe adapter F, the built-in flash unit will not pop up. K20D, K200D, K100D Super, K10D, K110D, K100D, *ist DL2, *ist DS2, *ist DL, *ist DS, *ist D, *ist, MZ-L/ZX-L/MZ-6, MZ-S, MZ-60/ZX-60, MZ-5N/ ZX-5N, MZ-30/ZX-30, MZ-7/ZX-7, MZ-3, MZ-5/ZX-5, MZ-10/ZX-10, MZ-50/ZX-50 You can use the hot shoe adapter F with any cameras other than those above. The 672 does not come with a hot shoe. The optional hot shoe grip 672 should be used. Refer to the hot shoe grip 672 operating manual for instructions.

645N2, 645N, Z/PZ series, MZ/ZX series (except MZ-M/ ZX-M), SFXN/SF1N, SFX/SF1
645, Super A/ Super Program, LX Auto Flash (A) Aperture setting capable PENTAX single lens reflex cameras

Manual Flash (M)

Aperture setting capable PENTAX single lens reflex cameras
Cameras that Support Each Sync Mode
Cameras that support each of the sync modes are listed below. Please note that the conditions under which they can be used differ depending on camera type and settings. For details, refer to the restrictions reference pages.

Sync Mode

Leading curtain sync ( Trailing curtain sync ( )
) All PENTAX single lens reflex cameras provided with a hot shoe Digital single lens reflex cameras Film cameras (medium format) Film cameras (35mm autofocus single lens reflex cameras) K20D, K200D, K100D Super, K10D, K110D, K100D, *ist DL2, *ist DS2, *ist DL, *ist DS, *ist D 672, 645N2, 645N *ist, Z/PZ series, MZ/ZX series (except MZ-M/ZX-M), SFXN/ SF1N, SFX/SF1, SF7/SF10 K20D, K200D, K100D Super, K10D, K110D, K100D, *ist DL2, *ist DS2, *ist DL, *ist DS, *ist D 672, 645N2, 645N *ist, Z/PZ series, MZ/ZX series (except MZ-M/ZX-M), SFXN/ SF1N, SFX/SF1, SF7/SF10
Restrictions Reference Page

page 72 page 72

Contrast control sync ( )
Digital single lens reflex cameras Film cameras (medium format) Film cameras (35mm autofocus single lens reflex cameras)

page 74

High-speed sync ( ) Digital single lens reflex cameras
K20D, K200D, K100D Super, K10D, K110D, K100D, *ist DL2, *ist DS2, *ist DL, *ist DS, *ist D *ist, MZ-S, MZ-L/ZX-L/MZ-6

page 76

Film cameras (35mm autofocus single lens reflex cameras)
Cameras that Support Wireless Mode

Function

Wireless Mode ( )
Digital single lens reflex cameras K20D, K200D, *ist DL2, *ist DS2, *ist DL, *ist DS, *ist D, K10D (NOTE) *ist, MZ-S, MZ-L/ ZX-L/MZ-6
- When photographing in wireless mode, set the slave mode to SL1 (refer to page 52). - You cannot photograph in wireless mode in combination with the built-in flash unit with the following cameras. K100D Super, K110D, K100D, *ist DL2, *ist DS2, *ist DS, *ist DL

*1: Depending on the type of camera, if Exposure Metering is switched on, the flash mode switches to [P-TTL] or [TTL]. For details, see page 60. *2: *ist D, K10D (the firmware must be updated to Version 1.10 or later)
2. Cameras that Support TTL Auto Flash Mode
<Film cameras (35mm autofocus single lens reflex cameras)> Type A: MZ-60/ZX-60, MZ-5N/ZX-5N, MZ-30/ZX-30, MZ-7/ZX-7, Z-1/PZ-1, Z-5, Z-1P/PZ-1P, Z-5P, Z-20/PZ-20, Z-20P, Z-50P, Z-70P, SFX/SF1, SFXN/SF1N Type B: MZ-3, MZ-5/ZX-5, MZ-10/ZX-10, MZ-50/ZX-50 Type C: Z-10/PZ-10 (P-TTL) P-TTL auto (TTL) TTL auto (A) auto flash (M) manual flash (SB) AF flash photography flash photography photography photography spotbeam Camera type (A), (B), (C) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) (C) (A) (B) (C) (A), (B), (C) Leading curtain sync N N N N N N N N N Trailing curtain sync N N N X X X X X X Slow-speed sync N N N N N N N N N High-speed sync X X X X X X X X X Automatic switching to X-sync speed when N N N N N N N N N flash is charged Flash ready display in N N N N N N N N N viewfinder Auto check display N N N X X X X X X Slave flash X X X N N N N N N Wireless control X X X X X X X X X Flash Mode Red-eye reduction AF spotbeam N*1 N O*2 N X N N*1 X O*2 X X X N*1 N O*2 X N N N
*1: Only when combined with cameras provided with red-eye reduction. (Excluding the MZ-5N, Z-1P, and Z-5P.) *2: Only when the AF540FGZ is detached from the camera and connected by an extension cord. (Excluding the MZ-3, MZ-5, MZ-10, and MZ-50.)
<Film cameras (medium format)> Type D: 672 Type E: 645 N2, 645 N Type F: 645 (P-TTL) P-TTL auto (TTL) TTL auto flash photography flash photography Camera type (D), (E), (F) (D) (E) (F) Leading curtain sync N N N Trailing curtain sync N N N Slow-speed sync N N N High-speed sync X X X Automatic switching to X-sync speed N N N when flash is charged Flash ready display N N N in viewfinder Auto check display N N N Slave flash X X X Wireless control X X X Red-eye reduction X X X AF spotbeam N Flash Mode (A) auto flash (M) manual flash (SB) AF photography photography spotbeam (D) (E) (F) (D) (E) (F) (D) (E) (F) N N N N N N X X X X X X N N X N N X X X X X X X N N N N N N -

N X N X X -

N X N X X X

N N X X X -

N X N X X N
<Film cameras (35mm manual focus single lens reflex cameras)> Type G: LX Type H: Super A/Super Program Flash Mode Camera type Leading curtain sync Trailing curtain sync Slow-speed sync High-speed sync Automatic switching to X-sync speed when flash is charged Flash ready display in viewfinder Auto check display Slave flash Wireless control Red-eye reduction AF spotbeam (P-TTL) P-TTL auto (TTL) TTL auto (A) auto flash (M) manual flash flash photography flash photography photography photography (G), (H) (G) N N N X N N N X X X (H) N N N X N N N X X X (G) N X X X N N N X X X (H) N X N X N N N X X X (G) N X X X N N N X X X (H) N X N X N N X X X X (SB) AF spotbeam (G), (H) -

Green, Picture, and Av (Aperture Priority) modes P (Programmed AE) mode Programmed AE, Aperture Priority AE and Shutter Priority AE modes Aperture Priority AE mode
Precautions When Photographing with a Slave Flash
Be sure to set the camera as follows: - Exposure mode: M (manual) or B (Bulb Exposure) * Exposure modes other than those above are not compatible with this photographic method. Set the slave mode of the flash unit to SL 2 (refer to page 52).

Flash Effective Range

Calculating the Flash Effective Range
When setting the lens to manual f/stop, calculate the guide number at full flash with the use of flash's zoom position and ISO. Divide the resulting guide number by the aperture in use. Thus, the maximum distance is obtained. The minimum distance is obtained in dividing this max. distance by approx. 10. However, if the minimum distance obtained is 0.7m or less, the minimum distance will be 0.7m. Refer to page 82 for the guide number table.

Example:

With a 85 mm lens at f/4 and sensitivity at ISO100 For the zoom position 85mm and sensitivity at ISO100, the guide number is 54. 54 (guide number) /4 (aperture) = 13.5m (max. distance) 13.5m (max. distance) /10 = 1.35m (min. distance) Thus, flash effective range is approx. 1.35m - 13.5m.
Display of Flash Effective Range
The shooting distance parameters will be displayed on the LCD panel. Make sure that you are within the flash effective range before taking pictures. The effective flash range is displayed for the following camera and lens combinations.
Effective flash range indicator
K20D, K200D, K100D Super, K10D, K110D, K100D, *ist D series 35mm autofocus single lens reflex cameras (except for SF series) 645N2, 645N

DA, D FA, FA J, FA, F, A

D FA, FA J, FA, F, A FA645
If the maximum distance exceeds 22 meters, ( ) will blink. If the minimum distance is 0.7m or less, ( ) will blink. The flash effective range varies depending on ISO, lens aperture in use, and/or the zoom position (flash coverage angle). Keep this in mind especially when you are using a variable aperture zoom lens.

Guide Number (GN)

Guide numbers indicate flash light intensity. The larger the number, the farther you can reach with your flash. From the guide number, you can easily obtain the proper aperture setting required for an optimum exposure. Aperture (f/stop) = GN/flash-to-subject distance (m)
Depending on the camera and lens you are using, the effective flash range may be displayed. (Refer to page 81.)

Guide Number Table

*With the wide-angle panel attached
Camera format ISO Flash light intensity 35mm DIGITAL
1/1 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 1/32 1/64
Zoom position 85mm 70mm 50mm 150mm 135mm 100mm 190mm 180mm 120mm 58mm 48mm 34mm
13.5 9.5 6.35 24.12 8.22.5.6

35mm 70mm 90mm 24mm

39 27.5 19.5 13.5 9.5 6.5 4.6

28mm 55mm 70mm 19mm

35 24.12 8.4.2

24mm 45mm 60mm 16mm

32 22.11 7.3.5

*20mm *35mm *55mm *13mm

21 14.3.5 2.4

ISO100

1/1 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 1/32 1/64 1/1 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 1/32 1/64
19 13.5 9.19 13.24.12 8.35 24.22.22.11
27.5 19.5 13.5 9.5 6.27.5 19.5 13.5 9.5

24.12 8.35 24.12 8.5

22.11 7.32 22.11 7.5

14.3.14.7 5

ISO200

ISO400

High-Speed Sync Guide Number

Shutter speed

Camera format 35mm DIGITAL

4000 6000

Zoom position 85mm 58mm
24.2 18.10.2 7.3 6.2 34.2 26.5 19.8 14.4 10.4 8.8 48.4 37.20.4 14.6 12.4

70mm 48mm

22.4 17.9.5 6.8 5.7 31.6 24.6 18.4 13.4 9.6 8.1 44.8 34.19 13.6 11.5

50mm 34mm

20.1 15.6 11.7 8.5 6.1 5.2 28.5 22.1 16.5 12.0 8.6 7.3 40.2 31.2 23.12.2 10.3

35mm 24mm

17.5 13.6 10.1 7.4 5.3 4.5 24.7 19.2 14.3 10.4 7.5 6.27.2 20.2 14.8 10.6 8.9

28mm 19mm

15.7 12.2 9.1 6.6 4.8 4.0 22.2 17.2 12.8 9.4 6.7 5.7 31.4 24.4 18.2 13.2 9.6 8.0

24mm 16mm

14.3 11.1 8.4.3 3.7 20.3 15.7 11.7 8.6 6.1 5.2 28.6 22.2 16.8.6 7.3

*20mm *13mm

9.4 7.3 5.2.9 2.4 13.3 10.3 7.7 5.6 4.0 3.4 18.8 14.8 5.8 4.8
P-TTL and TTL Auto Flash Effective Range
Camera format 35mm 20mm 35mm 55mm 24mm 45mm 60mm 16mm 28mm 55mm 70mm 19mm Zoom position ISO 100 35mm 50mm 70mm 85mm 20mm 24mm 45mm 60mm 16mm 28mm 55mm 70mm 19mm ISO 200 35mm 50mm 70mm 85mm
70mm 100mm 135mm 150mm 35mm 90mm 120mm 180mm 190mm 55mm 24mm 34mm 48mm 58mm 13mm
70mm 100mm 135mm 150mm 90mm 120mm 180mm 190mm 24mm 34mm 48mm 58mm
DIGITAL 13mm f/1.2 f/1.4 f/2 f/2.8 f/4 f/stop f/5.6 f/8 f/11 f/16 f/22 f/32
1.8 - 17.5 2.6 - 26.6 2.9 - 29.1 3.3 - 32.5 3.7 - 37.0 4.2 - 41.6 4.5 - 45.0 2.5 - 25.0 3.8 - 37.5 4.1 - 40.8 4.6 - 45.8 5.4 - 53.3 6.0 - 59.1 6.4 - 63.3 1.5 - 15.0 2.3 - 22.8 2.5 - 25.0 2.8 - 27.8 3.2 - 32.0 3.6 - 35.7 3.9 - 38.5 2.2 - 21.4 3.3 - 32.1 3.5 - 35.0 4.0 - 39.2 4.6 - 45.7 5.1 - 50.7 5.5 - 54.2 1.1 - 10.5 1.6 - 16.0 1.8 - 17.5 2.0 - 19.5 2.3 - 22.5 2.5 - 25.0 2.7 - 27.0 1.5 - 15.0 2.3 - 22.5 2.5 - 24.5 2.8 - 27.5 3.2 - 32.0 3.6 - 35.5 3.8 - 38.0 0.8 - 7.5 1.2 - 11.4 1.3 - 12.5 1.4 - 13.9 1.6 - 16.0 1.8 - 17.8 2.0 - 19.2 1.1 - 10.7 1.6 - 16.0 1.8 - 17.5 2.0 - 19.6 2.3 - 22.8 2.6 - 25.3 2.8 - 27.1 0.7 - 5.2 0.8 - 8.0 0.9 - 8.7 1.0 - 9.8 1.1 - 11.0 1.3 - 12.5 1.4 - 13.5 0.8 - 7.5 1.2 - 11.2 1.3 - 12.2 1.4 - 13.7 1.6 - 16.0 1.8 - 17.7 1.9 - 19.0 0.7 - 3.7 0.7 - 5.7 0.7 - 6.2 0.7 - 7.0 0.8 - 8.0 0.9 - 8.9 1.0 - 9.6 0.7 - 5.3 0.8 - 8.0 0.9 - 8.7 1.0 - 9.8 1.2 - 11.4 1.3 - 12.6 1.4 - 13.5 0.7 - 2.6 0.7 - 4.0 0.7 - 4.3 0.7 - 4.8 0.7 - 5.6 0.7 - 6.2 0.7 - 6.7 0.7 - 3.7 0.7 - 5.6 0.7 - 6.1 0.7 - 6.8 0.8 - 8.0 0.9 - 8.8 1.0 - 9.5 0.7 - 1.9 0.7 - 2.9 0.7 - 3.1 0.7 - 3.5 0.7 - 4.0 0.7 - 4.5 0.7 - 4.9 0.7 - 2.7 0.7 - 4.0 0.7 - 4.4 0.7 - 5.0 0.7 - 5.8 0.7 - 6.4 0.7 - 6.9 0.7 - 1.3 0.7 - 2.0 0.7 - 2.1 0.7 - 2.4 0.7 - 2.8 0.7 - 3.1 0.7 - 3.3 0.7 - 1.8 0.7 - 2.8 0.7 - 3.0 0.7 - 3.4 0.7 - 4.0 0.7 - 4.4 0.7 - 4.7 0.7 - 0.9 0.7 - 1.4 0.7 - 1.6 0.7 - 1.7 0.7 - 2.0 0.7 - 2.2 0.7 - 2.4 0.7 - 1.3 0.7 - 2.0 0.7 - 2.2 0.7 - 2.5 0.7 - 2.9 0.7 - 3.2 0.7 - 3.4 0.7 - 0.7 0.7 - 1.0 0.7 - 1.0 0.7 - 1.2 0.7 - 1.4 0.7 - 1.5 0.7 - 1.6 0.7 - 0.9 0.7 - 1.4 0.7 - 1.5 0.7 - 1.7 0.7 - 2.0 0.7 - 2.2 0.7 - 2.3

Bounce flash

Power saving
Red-eye reduction Modeling flash Wide-angle panel Catchlight panel LCD panel illumination Power source Dimensions and weight

Warranty Policy

All PENTAX camera accessories purchased through authorized bona fide photographic distribution channels are guaranteed against defects of material or workmanship for a period of twelve months from date of purchase. Service will be rendered, and defective parts will be replaced without cost to you within that period, provided the equipment does not show evidence of impact, sand or liquid damage, mishandling, tampering, battery or chemical corrosion, operation contrary to operating instructions, or modification by an unauthorized repair shop. The manufacturer or its authorized representatives shall not be liable for any repair or alterations except those made with its written consent and shall not be liable for damages from delay or loss of use or from other indirect or consequential damages of any kind, whether caused by defective material or workmanship or otherwise; and it is expressly agreed that the liability of the manufacturer or its representatives under all guarantees or warranties, whether expressed or implied, is strictly limited to the replacement of parts as herein before provided. No refunds will be made on repairs performed by non-authorized PENTAX service facilities. Procedure During 12-month Warranty Period Any PENTAX which proves defective during the 12-month warranty period should be returned to the dealer from whom you purchased the equipment or to the manufacturer. If there is no representative of the manufacturer in your country, send the equipment to the manufacturer, with postage prepaid. In this case, it will take a considerable length of time before the equipment can be returned to you owing to the complicated customs procedures required. If the equipment is covered by warranty, repairs will be made and parts replaced free of charge, and the equipment will be returned to you upon completion of servicing. If the equipment is not covered by warranty, regular charges of the manufacturer or of its representatives will apply. Shipping charges are to be borne by the owner. If your PENTAX was purchased outside of the country where you wish to have it serviced during the warranty period, regular handling and servicing fees may be charged by the manufacturers representatives in that country. Notwithstanding this, your PENTAX returned to the manufacturer will be serviced free of charge according to this procedure and warranty policy. In any case, however, shipping charges and customs clearance fees are to be borne by the sender. To prove the date of your purchase when required, please keep the receipts or bills covering the purchase of your equipment for at least a year. Before sending your equipment for servicing, please make sure that you are sending it to the manufacturers authorized representatives or their approved repair shops, unless you are sending it directly to the manufacturer. Always obtain a quotation for the service charge, and only after you accept the quoted service charge, instruct the service station to proceed with the servicing.