1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the NEEWER 160 LED CN-160 Video Light. This compact and powerful LED light is designed to provide optimal illumination for your digital camera, camcorder, or other video recording equipment. Featuring 160 high-quality LEDs, adjustable brightness, and included color filters, it is an essential tool for professional and amateur photographers and videographers alike. Please read this manual carefully before use to ensure proper operation and to maximize the lifespan of your device.
Image: NEEWER 160 LED CN-160 Video Light with included soft and warm filters.
2. Safety Information
Please observe the following safety precautions to prevent damage to the product or injury to yourself:
- Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
- Do not disassemble or modify the unit.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Use only recommended batteries and power sources.
- Avoid direct eye exposure to the LED light, as it can cause discomfort.
- Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating during extended use.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- 1 x NEEWER 160 LED CN-160 Video Light
- 1 x Soft Light Filter (White)
- 1 x Warm Light Filter (Orange)
4. Product Overview
The NEEWER CN-160 features a compact design with essential controls and mounting options.
Image: Product dimensions (5.5in/14cm width, 3.74in/9.5cm height, 2.2in/5.5cm depth) and brightness adjustment knob.
Image: Features including 180° horizontal rotation, 1/4" screw hole, and cold shoe base.
Image: Rear view showing heat dissipation holes, 1/4" adaptor hole, and cold shoe base.
Key Components:
- LED Panel: 160 high-brightness LEDs.
- Brightness Adjustment Knob: Controls power ON/OFF and light intensity.
- Cold Shoe Base: For mounting on cameras, camcorders, or other equipment with a standard hot shoe.
- 1/4" Screw Hole: For mounting on tripods, light stands, or other equipment with a 1/4" thread.
- Battery Compartment: Located on the rear for compatible batteries.
- Heat Dissipation Holes: Around the back panel for long-term use.
5. Setup
5.1 Battery Installation
The NEEWER CN-160 requires a compatible battery (not included) for operation. Open the battery compartment on the back of the unit.
- Compatible Li-ion Batteries: NP-F550, NP-F750, NP-F970, LP-E6, Panasonic SD Series, Sony FH, FM, and F models.
- Emergency Power: 6 x 1.5V AA batteries can be used for emergency lighting, but their lifespan is relatively short and not recommended for regular use.
- Incompatible Batteries: Sony FW series batteries are NOT compatible with this LED panel.
Insert the battery according to the polarity markings inside the compartment and close the cover securely.
5.2 Mounting the Light
The video light offers versatile mounting options:
- On Camera/Camcorder: Attach the cold shoe base of the light to the standard hot shoe mount on your DSLR or digital video camera. Tighten the locking ring to secure it.
- On Tripod/Light Stand: Use the 1/4" screw hole located on the cold shoe base to attach the light to a tripod or light stand equipped with a 1/4" thread.
Image: Examples of the LED light mounted on a camera, tripod, and video camera.
5.3 Attaching Filters
The light comes with two filters to modify the light output:
- Soft Light Filter (White): Provides a diffuse effect, suitable for short-range shooting and softening harsh light.
- Warm Light Filter (Orange): Reduces the color temperature to 3200K, ideal for creating a warmer ambiance.
To attach a filter, slide it into the slots on the front of the LED panel until it clicks into place. To remove, gently slide it out.
Image: Visual comparison of light output without a filter, with a soft light filter, and with a warm light filter.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Power On/Off and Brightness Adjustment
The brightness adjustment knob controls both the power and the light intensity:
- Rotate the knob clockwise to turn the light ON.
- Continue rotating clockwise to increase the brightness.
- Rotate the knob counter-clockwise to decrease the brightness.
- Continue rotating counter-clockwise until it clicks to turn the light OFF.
Image: Simple operation showing the brightness adjustment knob and visual effects of different filters.
6.2 Using the Filters
The included filters allow you to adapt the light to various shooting conditions:
- Soft Light Filter: Use for portraits, close-up shots, or whenever a softer, more even light is desired to reduce harsh shadows.
- Warm Light Filter: Apply when you need to match existing warm lighting conditions or to create a cozy, warm tone in your footage or photos. This filter changes the color temperature from 5600K to 3200K.
Image: Various usage scenarios for the LED video light, including gaming, video recording, portrait photography, and vlogging/TikTok content creation.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the LED panel and the body of the light. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Storage: When not in use, store the light in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove batteries if storing for an extended period to prevent leakage.
- Heat Dissipation: Ensure the heat dissipation holes on the back are not obstructed during operation to maintain optimal performance and longevity.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Light does not turn on. | Battery is dead or incorrectly installed. Incompatible battery used. | Check battery charge and correct polarity. Ensure a compatible battery type is used (e.g., not Sony FW series). |
| Light is dim or flickers. | Low battery power. Brightness knob not fully adjusted. | Replace or recharge the battery. Rotate the brightness knob fully to the desired level. |
| Light feels hot during use. | Normal operation. Obstructed ventilation. | Some heat is normal. Ensure heat dissipation holes are clear. If excessively hot, turn off and allow to cool. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | CN-160 |
| Lighting Type | On-Camera Video Light |
| Number of LEDs | 160 |
| Maximum Power | 9.6 Watt |
| Shell Material | ABS Plastic |
| Color Temperature | 5600K (3200K with warm filter) |
| Luminous Flux | 660 lm |
| Illumination (at 1m) | 900 Lux |
| Effective Distance | 6m / 20ft |
| Runtime | 60-80 minutes (depending on battery and brightness) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 141mm x 62mm x 150mm (approx. 5.5 x 2.4 x 5.9 inches) |
| Net Weight | 8.57 oz / 0.24 kg |
| Power Source | External Battery (NP-F series, LP-E6, Panasonic SD, Sony FH/FM/F models) |
| Battery Included | No |
| Inbox Adaptor | No |
10. User Tips
- Battery Choice: For optimal performance and longer runtime, always use NP-F series Li-ion batteries. AA batteries are only suitable for very short, emergency use.
- Battery Indicator: Monitor the battery power indicator (if available on your battery model) to avoid unexpected power loss during shooting.
- Creative Lighting: Experiment with both the soft and warm filters to achieve different moods and effects in your photography and videography. The soft filter is great for flattering portraits, while the warm filter can simulate golden hour lighting.
- Versatile Mounting: Don't limit yourself to on-camera mounting. Utilize the 1/4" screw hole to place the light on a small tripod or light stand for off-camera lighting, which can create more dynamic and professional results.
11. Warranty and Support
This NEEWER product is covered by the manufacturer's standard warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official NEEWER website for detailed warranty terms and conditions.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact NEEWER customer service through their official channels. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
