Polaroid PLRTC18 Shutter Release Timer Remote Control User Manual for Canon DSLR Cameras

1. Introduction

The Polaroid PLRTC18 Shutter Release Timer Remote Control is designed to provide precise control over your camera's shutter, enabling advanced photographic techniques such as time-lapse, long exposures, and delayed shots. This device connects directly to your compatible Canon DSLR camera via a dedicated cable, allowing you to program various timing functions with accuracy.

A person holding the Polaroid PLRTC18 remote control while looking at a Canon DSLR camera mounted on a tripod, demonstrating typical usage.

Figure 1.1: User operating the PLRTC18 remote control with a camera on a tripod.

Please read this manual thoroughly to understand the features and proper operation of your new remote control.

2. Package Contents

Polaroid PLRTC18 Shutter Release Timer Remote Control
Camera Connection Cables (2 types for broad compatibility)
User Manual
AAA Batteries (2)

3. Setup

3.1. Battery Installation

The PLRTC18 requires two AAA batteries for operation. To install:

Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the remote control.
Slide the cover open in the direction indicated by the arrow.
Insert two AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as marked inside the compartment.
Close the battery compartment cover until it clicks securely into place.

Image showing the battery compartment of the Polaroid PLRTC18 remote control with two AAA batteries inserted.

Figure 3.1: Battery compartment with two AAA batteries.

Note: To conserve battery life, it is recommended to remove the batteries when the remote control will not be used for an extended period, as there is no dedicated ON/OFF switch.

3.2. Connecting to Your Camera

The remote control connects to your camera using one of the provided cables. Identify the correct cable for your specific Canon DSLR model.

Plug one end of the appropriate connection cable into the remote control's port.
Plug the other end of the cable into your camera's remote control terminal. This is typically a 3-pin or mini headphone jack style port, often located on the side of the camera body.
Ensure both connections are secure.

Image showing a 3-conductor mini plug cable connecting to a Canon camera's remote port.

Figure 3.2: Connecting the remote control cable to a Canon camera.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Controls Overview

Familiarize yourself with the buttons and LCD display on the remote control:

Image of the Polaroid PLRTC18 remote control with labels pointing to the LCD display, SET button, arrow buttons, TIMER START/STOP, and /LOCK button.

Figure 4.1: PLRTC18 Remote Control Layout.

LCD Display: Shows current settings for DELAY, LONG, INTVL (Interval), and N (Number of exposures).
SET Button: Used to enter setting mode and confirm selections.
Arrow Buttons (Up/Down/Left/Right): Used to navigate between settings and adjust values.
TIMER START/STOP Button: Initiates or stops the programmed timer sequence.
/LOCK Button: Functions as a manual shutter release (half-press for focus, full-press for shutter) and can lock the remote.

4.2. Setting Timer Functions

The remote control allows you to set four primary timing parameters: Delay, Long Exposure, Interval, and Number of Exposures. All settings can be adjusted up to 99 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds in one-second increments.

Press the SET button to enter the setting mode. The first parameter (DELAY) will begin to flash.
Use the Left/Right Arrow buttons to navigate between DELAY, LONG, INTVL, and N.
Use the Up/Down Arrow buttons to adjust the values for the selected parameter (hours, minutes, seconds).
After setting a value, press SET again to move to the next digit or parameter.
Once all desired parameters are set, press SET until the display stops flashing and returns to standby mode.

4.2.1. DELAY (Self-Timer)

This sets the amount of time before the first exposure sequence begins. Useful for getting into the shot or allowing camera vibrations to settle.

4.2.2. LONG (Exposure Time)

This sets the duration the camera's shutter will remain open for each exposure. Set your camera to Bulb mode for this function to work correctly.

4.2.3. INTVL (Interval Time)

This sets the time between the end of one exposure and the start of the next. Essential for time-lapse photography.

4.2.4. N (Number of Exposures)

This sets the total number of exposures the remote will trigger. Set to "---" for an unlimited number of shots.

4.3. Starting and Stopping the Timer

Once your desired settings are programmed:

Press the TIMER START/STOP button to begin the programmed sequence. The LCD will display a countdown or active timer.
To stop an ongoing sequence, press the TIMER START/STOP button again.

4.4. Manual Shutter Release

The remote control can also function as a simple wired shutter release.

Half-Press: Press the /LOCK button halfway down to activate your camera's autofocus.
Full-Press: Press the /LOCK button fully down to trigger the shutter.
Locking the Shutter: For continuous shooting or long exposures in Bulb mode (without using the LONG timer function), press the /LOCK button fully down and slide it forward to lock it in the depressed position. Slide it back to release.

Image of a hand pressing the shutter release button on the Polaroid PLRTC18 remote control.

Figure 4.2: Manual shutter release operation.

5. Maintenance

Cleaning: Wipe the remote control with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
Battery Care: Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage. Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the LCD.
Storage: Store the remote control in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Cable Care: Avoid bending or twisting the connection cables excessively to prevent damage.

6. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Remote control does not power on.	Batteries are dead or incorrectly installed.	Check battery polarity. Replace with fresh AAA batteries.
Camera does not trigger.	Cable not securely connected. Incorrect cable for camera model. Camera not in appropriate mode (e.g., Bulb for long exposures). Camera battery is low.	Ensure cable is firmly connected to both remote and camera. Verify you are using the correct cable for your camera model. Set camera to Bulb mode for long exposures or appropriate shooting mode for other functions. Charge camera battery.
Timer sequence does not start.	Settings not confirmed or START button not pressed.	Ensure all settings are confirmed with SET and then press TIMER START/STOP.
LCD display is dim or flickering.	Low battery.	Replace AAA batteries.

7. Specifications

Model: PLRTC18
Brand: Polaroid
Connectivity: Wired
Timer Functions: Delay, Long Exposure, Interval, Number of Exposures
Timer Settings: 1 second to 99 hours, 59 minutes, 59 seconds (in 1-second increments)
Number of Shots: 1 to 9999, or unlimited (---)
Display: Backlit LCD
Power Source: 2 x AAA batteries
Color: Black

8. Camera Compatibility

The Polaroid PLRTC18 is compatible with a wide range of Canon Digital SLR cameras that utilize a 3-pin or mini headphone jack style remote control terminal. Compatible models include, but are not limited to:

Canon G10, G11, G12, G16
Canon EOS Digital Rebel series
Canon 60D, 70D
Canon Elan II/IIE, Elan 7/7E
Canon Rebel Ti /2000/G/GII/X/XS
Canon IX/IX Lite
Canon SX50 HS
Canon EOS Rebel T1i, T2, T2i, T3, T3i, T4i, T5, T5i, T6
And similar models with compatible shutter release ports.

Please consult your camera's manual to confirm the type of remote control port it uses.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Polaroid website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.