1. Introduction
The AODELAN ZC-5 is a professional wireless remote controller designed for Canon Cinema Cameras and Camcorders. It offers comprehensive control over various camera functions, allowing for greater creative freedom and efficient on-set adjustments. With its reliable spread spectrum communication, it provides a stable connection up to 650ft (200m) wirelessly, or 780ft (240m) with optional wired extension cables.
Video: Overview of the AODELAN ZC-5 Wireless Camcorder Remote in various professional settings.
2. Package Contents
Please check that all the following items are included in your package:
- 1x Remote Controller (ZC-5)
- 1x Receiver (ZX-5 RX)
- 1x Attachment Plate
- 1x USB Type-C Cable
- 1x Extension Cable (33ft/10m)
- 1x Remote Cable (Ø2.5-2.5, stretchable to 3ft/1m)
- 1x Soft Cloth Bag
- 1x User Manual
Image: Visual representation of all items included in the AODELAN ZC-5 package.
3. Product Overview
The AODELAN ZC-5 Remote Controller provides a comprehensive set of controls for your Canon camcorder, designed for intuitive operation and quick adjustments.
3.1 Area Distribution of Controls
Image: Diagram highlighting different control areas on the ZC-5 Remote Controller.
- Connection Indicators and Keys: Camera power key, ON/OFF switch, HOLD key.
- Basic Operations: Buttons for common functions.
- Exposure Controls: Shutter controls, ISO speed/Gain controls.
- Image Processing: Knee, black gamma, and sharpness controls.
- Color Balance: White balance and master black controls.
- Assignable Keys (1 to 4): Customizable buttons for frequently used functions.
- Screen and Menu Settings: Keys for navigating the remote's screen and camera menu.
- Advanced Image Controls: Master pedestal, iris, and ND filter controls.
- Recording & Focus: Video recording (REC START/STOP), focus, and zoom controls.
Image: The ZC-5 Remote Controller featuring illuminated buttons for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
4. Setup Instructions
4.1 Connecting the Remote Controller
- Ensure both the camera and the remote controller are powered off.
- Connect the remote cable from the ZC-5 Remote Controller to the camera's REMOTE (or REMOTE A) terminal. Note that REMOTE B is not supported.
- For wireless operation, connect the ZX-5 RX Receiver to the camera's REMOTE terminal.
4.2 Camera Settings Configuration
To enable full functionality of the ZC-5, you must configure your camera's remote settings:
- Turn on your Canon camcorder.
- Navigate to the camera's menu system.
- Locate the 'Remote' or 'Other Functions' setting.
- Change the remote setting from "Standard" to "RC-V100".
- Alternatively, you may need to select: MENU → System Setup → REMOTE Term. → RC-V100 (REMOTE A).
- It is recommended to cancel any automatic adjustment of the camera's shooting state. For example, set the FULL AUTO switch to OFF. If your camera has a ZOOM switch, set it to ROCKER for optimal control via the remote.
Image: Screenshots showing the camera menu navigation to activate 'RC-V100' mode for remote control.
Image: Detailed view of camera menu settings for configuring assignable buttons and the zoom switch.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Camera Control
The ZC-5 precisely supports core shooting operations:
- Record Start/Stop: Use the dedicated REC START/STOP button.
- Zoom: Control zoom smoothly for near-far switching.
- Focus: Achieve precise focusing for sharp subjects.
- Iris Adjustment: Adjust aperture for light changes.
Image: Close-up of the ZC-5 Remote Controller demonstrating controls for record, zoom, focus, and iris.
5.2 Full Camera Menu Access
Control all camera settings remotely via the ZC-5 without needing to use on-body menus, saving time for quick tweaks on set.
Image: The ZC-5 Remote Controller being used to access and control camera menu settings remotely.
5.3 Precise Exposure Control
Adjust ISO/GAIN and SHUTTER quickly, perfect for changing light conditions (indoor ↔ outdoor shoots). This helps maintain clear footage without over/underexposure.
Image: Close-up of the ZC-5 Remote Controller showing dedicated controls for ISO/Gain and Shutter.
5.4 On-the-Spot White Balance Tuning
Adjust white balance remotely from the ZC-5 to ensure consistent colors and reduce post-production color grading time. Controls include Knee Point, Knee Slope, AWB, Preset, and White Balance knobs.
Image: The ZC-5 Remote Controller displaying its white balance adjustment section.
5.5 Image Tone Management
Control the black level and color cast of blacks by adjusting MASTER PEDESTAL and MASTER BLACK. This helps achieve a balanced look in various environments.
- Master Pedestal: Increases or decreases the black level. Higher settings make dark areas brighter but may decrease contrast.
- Master Black: Corrects color cast in blacks.
Image: The ZC-5 Remote Controller showing controls for Master Pedestal and Master Black for image tone management.
5.6 Custom Buttons
Assign four buttons (1-4) for quick access to frequently used functions such as white balance adjustment, peaking, or waveform monitor (WFM). Setting may need to be made on the camera first: MENU → [Assignable Buttons] → [Link to Camera] → [Enable]. Available functions vary by camera model.
Image: The ZC-5 Remote Controller highlighting its four customizable buttons.
5.7 Control Two Cameras Simultaneously
The ZC-5 allows for simultaneous control of two cameras. Connect one camera to the CAMERA connector of ZC-5 via the remote cable, and wirelessly connect another camera through the Receiver.
Notes:
- Turn off each camera before connecting and disconnecting the camera.
- When controlling two cameras simultaneously, the time taken for the cameras to respond may not be the same. For example, when the REC START/STOP key is pressed to start recording simultaneously, the actual recording start timing may differ by several frames.
Image: Diagram illustrating the setup for controlling two cameras simultaneously using the ZC-5 Remote Controller.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the remote controller and receiver. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use the provided soft cloth bag for protection.
- Battery Replacement: Replace AA batteries in the remote controller as needed. Ensure correct polarity.
- Cable Care: Avoid bending or twisting cables excessively to prevent damage.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1 Common Issues and Solutions
- Remote not responding:
- Ensure the remote controller and receiver are powered on.
- Check battery levels in the remote controller and replace if necessary.
- Verify that the remote cable is securely connected to the camera's REMOTE (or REMOTE A) terminal.
- Confirm that the camera's remote setting is correctly configured to "RC-V100" in the menu.
- Ensure the remote is within the specified operating range (650ft/200m wireless, 780ft/240m wired).
- Specific functions (e.g., AUTO aperture, zoom lever) not working:
- If the camera is an interchangeable lens type, certain functions may not work depending on the attached lens.
- Some keys may not function on specific camera models even if the setup is correct. Refer to your camera's manual for compatibility details.
- Ensure the camera's automatic shooting state (e.g., FULL AUTO switch) is set to OFF, and the ZOOM switch is set to ROCKER if applicable.
- Interference:
- The ZC-5 uses spread spectrum communication to resist interference. However, in environments with strong electromagnetic interference, try to minimize other wireless devices or move to a different location.
8. Specifications
8.1 Remote Controller (ZC-5)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (Approx.) | 88 x 236 x 49 mm (3.5 x 9.3 x 1.9 in.) (Excluding attachment plate, remote cable) |
| Weight (Approx.) | 335 g (11.8 oz) (Excluding battery, attachment plate, remote cable) |
| Usage Environment | Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F); Humidity: 80% or lower |
| Connector | Ø2.5 stereo mini jack x1 (CAMERA connector); USB Type-C connector x1 |
| Screen | OLED screen, 1.3" |
| Zoom Lever | Supports pressure-sensitive control |
| Power Source | Two AA 1.5V batteries / Supplied by the camera (wired connection) / Supplied by external power supply (USB Type-C) |
Image: Detailed specifications and physical display of the ZC-5 Remote Controller.
8.2 Receiver (ZX-5 RX)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (Approx.) | 52 x 98 x 43 mm (2.0 x 3.9 x 1.7 in.) |
| Weight (Approx.) | 78 g (2.8 oz) |
| Usage Environment | Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F); Humidity: 80% or lower |
| Connector | Ø2.5 stereo mini jack x1 (2.5 connector); Ø3.5 stereo mini jack x1 (3.5 connector); USB Type-C connector x1 |
| Screen | OLED screen, 1.3" |
| Remote Control Range | Wireless: Up to 650 ft. (200m) (spread spectrum communication) Wired: Up to 780 ft. (240m) (using AODELAN extension cables, sold separately) |
Image: Detailed specifications and physical display of the ZX-5 RX Receiver.
9. Compatible Models
The AODELAN ZC-5 is designed to replace the Canon RC-V100 and is compatible with a wide range of Canon camcorders and cinema cameras:
- Canon ME Series: ME200S-SH, ME20F-SH
- Canon VIXIA/LEGRIA Series: HF G70, G60, G50, GX10
- Canon XF Series: XF705, XF605, XF405, XF400, XF315, XF310, XF305, XF300, XF205, XF200
- Canon EOS Cinema Series: C80, C700, C70, C500II, C500, C400, C300III, C300II, C300, C200, C100II
- Canon XA Series: XA75, XA70, XA65, XA60, XA55, XA50, XA45, XA40, XA15, XA11
Image: Examples of compatible Canon VIXIA/LEGRIA and ME series cameras.
Image: Examples of compatible Canon EOS Cinema, XA, and XF series cameras.
10. User Tips
- Camera Remote Setting: Always ensure your camera's remote setting is changed from "Standard" to "RC-V100" in the menu for the ZC-5 to function correctly.
- Disable Auto Modes: For full manual control and to prevent conflicts, it's advisable to disable any automatic shooting modes (e.g., Full Auto) on your camera when using the ZC-5.
- Zoom Switch: If your camera has a physical zoom switch, set it to 'ROCKER' mode to allow the remote's zoom control to operate effectively.
- Lens Compatibility: Be aware that with interchangeable lens cameras, certain functions like automatic aperture or zoom lever might be affected by the specific lens attached.
- Dual Camera Sync: When controlling two cameras simultaneously, minor delays in recording start times (a few frames) may occur between the two cameras.
11. Warranty and Support
AODELAN products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official AODELAN website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
