YONGNUO RF-603N3

Yongnuo RF-603 N3 2.4GHz Wireless Flash Trigger/Shutter Release Transceiver Kit

User Manual

Introduction

The Yongnuo RF-603 N3 is a versatile 2.4GHz wireless transceiver kit designed for photographers. It functions as both a wireless flash trigger and a wireless/wired shutter release for compatible Nikon cameras. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your RF-603 N3 kit.

Safety Information

  • Do not expose the device to water or extreme humidity.
  • Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
  • Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Refer to qualified personnel.
  • Keep batteries out of reach of children.
  • Use only specified battery types (AAA).

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

  • 2 x Yongnuo RF-603 Transceivers
  • 1 x N3 Shutter Release Cable (for Nikon D90/D3100/D5000/D7000 series cameras)
  • User Manual (this document)
Yongnuo RF-603 N3 kit with packaging, two transceivers, and shutter release cable

Image: The complete Yongnuo RF-603 N3 kit, including two transceivers, the N3 shutter release cable, and product packaging.

Product Overview

Each RF-603 unit functions as both a transmitter and a receiver. Familiarize yourself with the main components:

  • Hot Shoe Mount: For attaching to a camera's hot shoe or mounting a flash.
  • Hot Shoe Contact: For communication with the camera or flash.
  • Shutter Release Button: Two-stage button for autofocus and shutter release.
  • Power Switch (OFF/ON/TRX): Controls power and operating mode.
  • Battery Compartment: Holds 2x AAA batteries.
  • PC Sync Port: For connecting to studio strobes or cameras with PC sync terminals.
  • 2.5mm Shutter Release Port: For connecting the N3 shutter release cable.
Front view of two Yongnuo RF-603 transceivers, showing hot shoe and shutter button

Image: Front view of two RF-603 transceivers, highlighting the hot shoe and the large shutter release button.

Back view of two Yongnuo RF-603 transceivers, showing battery compartments

Image: Back view of two RF-603 transceivers, showing the battery compartment covers.

Side view of a Yongnuo RF-603 transceiver, showing the ON/OFF/TRX switch

Image: Side view of an RF-603 transceiver, illustrating the three-position power switch (OFF, ON, TRX).

Close-up of the hot shoe and sync port on a Yongnuo RF-603 transceiver

Image: Close-up view of the hot shoe and the PC sync port located on the side of the RF-603 transceiver.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

  1. Slide open the battery compartment cover on the back of each RF-603 transceiver.
  2. Insert two AAA batteries into each unit, observing the correct polarity (+/-).
  3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

2. Setting Channels (Dip Switches)

The RF-603 units use internal dip switches to set the communication channel. Both the transmitting and receiving units must be set to the same channel for proper operation.

  1. Open the battery compartment cover.
  2. Locate the small dip switches inside the battery compartment.
  3. Use a small tool (e.g., a pen tip) to set the switches to your desired channel. There are 16 possible channels.
  4. Ensure both transceivers are set to identical switch positions.
  5. Close the battery compartment cover.

3. Mounting to Camera/Flash

  • On Camera: Slide one RF-603 unit onto your camera's hot shoe. Tighten the locking wheel if available.
  • With Flash: Slide your speedlight onto the hot shoe of the second RF-603 unit.

4. Connecting Shutter Release Cable

For wireless or wired shutter release functionality, connect the N3 cable.

  1. Connect the smaller end of the N3 cable to the 2.5mm shutter release port on one RF-603 transceiver.
  2. Connect the larger end of the N3 cable to your compatible Nikon camera's remote terminal.
Yongnuo N3 shutter release cable with 2.5mm jack and camera connector

Image: The N3 shutter release cable, showing its 2.5mm jack and the camera-specific connector.

Operating Instructions

1. Wireless Flash Trigger Mode

This mode allows you to wirelessly trigger off-camera flashes.

  1. Ensure both RF-603 units have batteries installed and are set to the same channel.
  2. Mount one RF-603 unit onto your camera's hot shoe. Set its power switch to 'TRX' (Transceiver).
  3. Mount your speedlight onto the hot shoe of the second RF-603 unit. Set this unit's power switch to 'TRX'.
  4. Power on your camera and speedlight.
  5. When you press your camera's shutter button, the on-camera RF-603 will transmit a signal, triggering the off-camera RF-603 and its attached flash.
  6. You can also press the shutter release button on the on-camera RF-603 to test the flash trigger.

2. Wireless Shutter Release Mode

This mode allows you to remotely trigger your camera's shutter.

  1. Ensure both RF-603 units have batteries installed and are set to the same channel.
  2. Mount one RF-603 unit onto your camera's hot shoe. Connect the N3 shutter release cable from this unit to your camera's remote terminal. Set this unit's power switch to 'TRX'.
  3. Take the second RF-603 unit and set its power switch to 'TRX'. This unit will act as your remote control.
  4. Power on your camera.
  5. Press the shutter release button on the remote RF-603 unit:
    • Half-press to activate autofocus.
    • Full-press to trigger the camera's shutter.

3. Wired Shutter Release Mode

This mode allows you to use one RF-603 unit as a wired remote control.

  1. Ensure one RF-603 unit has batteries installed.
  2. Connect the N3 shutter release cable from this unit to your camera's remote terminal.
  3. Set the RF-603 unit's power switch to 'ON'.
  4. Power on your camera.
  5. Press the shutter release button on the RF-603 unit:
    • Half-press to activate autofocus.
    • Full-press to trigger the camera's shutter.

Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the transceivers. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
  • Battery Care: Remove batteries if the units will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
  • Storage: Store the units in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

  • Units not firing/triggering:
    • Check if batteries are correctly installed and have sufficient charge.
    • Ensure both transceivers are powered ON and set to 'TRX' mode.
    • Verify that both transceivers are set to the same channel using the internal dip switches.
    • Ensure the hot shoe connections are clean and secure.
  • Shutter release not working:
    • Confirm the N3 cable is correctly connected to both the RF-603 and the camera.
    • Ensure the RF-603 connected to the camera is set to 'TRX' (for wireless) or 'ON' (for wired).
    • Check camera settings for remote control functionality.
  • Black bar in photos (sync speed issue):
    • The RF-603 N3 has a maximum sync speed, typically around 1/200s or 1/250s depending on the camera model.
    • If you observe a black bar, reduce your camera's shutter speed to match or fall below its native flash sync speed.
  • Difficulty accessing ON/OFF switch:
    • Due to the switch's placement, it may be difficult to operate when a flash is mounted. It is recommended to set the switch before mounting the flash.

Specifications

FeatureSpecification
ModelRF-603N3
Frequency2.4GHz
Channels16 (via internal dip switches)
Transmission DistanceUp to 100 meters (328 feet)
Sync SpeedUp to 1/250s (camera dependent)
Power Source2 x AAA batteries (per transceiver)
Stand-by TimeApproximately 45 hours
Compatible CamerasNikon D90, D3100, D3200, D3300, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D7000, D7100, D600, D610, D750, Df (with N3 cable)
Dimensions (each unit)Approx. 80mm x 30mm x 25mm
Weight (each unit, without batteries)Approx. 7.04 ounces (total kit)

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact your retailer. YONGNUO products typically come with a limited warranty against manufacturing defects.

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