Bell + Howell High Speed Power Zoom Flash for Canon (Z1080AFZ-C) Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and effective use of your Bell+Howell Z1080AFZ-C High Speed Power Zoom Flash. Designed for Canon DSLR cameras, this flash unit offers advanced features such as High Speed Synchronization, Wireless TTL Auto-Focus, and Power-Zoom functions. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the flash to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Safety Precautions

• Do not expose the flash unit to water or extreme humidity.
• Avoid direct eye contact with the flash light, especially at close range, as it can cause temporary vision impairment.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the flash unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Use only specified AA batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries.
• Remove batteries if the flash unit will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Bell+Howell Z1080AFZ-C Flash Unit
• Instruction Manual (this document)
• Protective Pouch (may vary by region)
• Mini Stand (may vary by region)

Parts Identification

Familiarize yourself with the various components of your flash unit:

Figure 1: Bell+Howell Z1080AFZ-C Flash Unit Overview

This image displays the Bell+Howell Z1080AFZ-C flash unit from the front, showing the flash head, LCD display, control buttons (MODE, ZOOM), and switches (OFF/ON, S/OFF). The model number Z1080AFZ is visible below the flash head. The hot shoe mount is at the bottom.

1. Flash Head: Contains the flash tube and can be rotated and tilted for bounce flash.
2. LCD Panel: Displays current settings such as zoom position, mode, and distance.
3. MODE Button: Used to cycle through different flash modes (e.g., TTL, Manual, Slave).
4. ZOOM Button: Adjusts the flash zoom head position to match the lens focal length.
5. Power Switch (OFF/ON): Turns the flash unit on or off.
6. Slave Switch (S/OFF): Activates or deactivates the slave mode.
7. READY / TEST Indicator: Illuminates when the flash is fully charged and ready to fire. Can also be pressed to test fire the flash.
8. OK Indicator: Confirms successful operation or setting.
9. Hot Shoe Mount: Connects the flash unit to the camera's hot shoe.
10. Built-in Wide-Angle Diffuser: Pulls out from the flash head for wider light coverage.
11. Built-in Reflecting Plate: Pulls out from the flash head for catchlight effects.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the back or side of the flash unit.
2. Open the cover by sliding or lifting it according to the markings.
3. Insert four (4) AA-size batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

Note: The flash requires 4 AA batteries. For best performance and recycle times, use high-quality alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries.

2. Mounting to Camera

1. Ensure both the camera and flash unit are powered off.
2. Slide the flash's hot shoe mount completely into the camera's hot shoe slot.
3. Tighten the locking wheel or lever on the flash unit to secure it firmly to the camera. Do not overtighten.

Operating Instructions

1. Power On/Off

• To power on, slide the Power Switch (OFF/ON) to the "ON" position. The LCD panel will illuminate.
• To power off, slide the Power Switch to the "OFF" position.

The flash will automatically enter standby mode after a period of inactivity to conserve battery power. Press any button or half-press the camera's shutter button to wake it up.

2. Mode Selection

Press the MODE button to cycle through the available flash modes:

• TTL (Through-The-Lens) Mode: The flash automatically determines the appropriate light output based on the camera's metering system. This is the standard automatic mode for most situations.
• Manual (M) Mode: Allows you to manually set the flash power output (e.g., 1/1, 1/2, 1/4, etc.). Use the arrow buttons (if available, or ZOOM button in some models) to adjust power.
• Slave (S) Mode: The flash fires in sync with another flash unit.
  • To activate Slave mode, slide the Slave Switch (S/OFF) to the "S" position.
  • The flash will detect the light from a master flash and fire simultaneously.

3. Zoom Function

The flash features a power zoom head that automatically adjusts to match the focal length of your lens (24-105mm). You can also manually adjust the zoom:

• Press the ZOOM button to manually cycle through available zoom settings (e.g., 24mm, 35mm, 50mm, 70mm, 85mm, 105mm).
• The current zoom setting will be displayed on the LCD panel.

4. Bounce and Swivel Head Adjustment

The flash head can be tilted and rotated to direct light off a ceiling or wall, creating softer, more natural illumination.

• To tilt the flash head, gently push it upwards or downwards. Common tilt angles are 0°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°.
• To swivel the flash head, gently rotate it left or right. Common swivel angles are 0°, 90°, 180°.
• Ensure the head clicks into place at desired angles.

5. Using Built-in Diffuser and Reflecting Plate

• Wide-Angle Diffuser: Pull out the small white panel from the top of the flash head. This spreads the light for wider coverage, useful for wide-angle lenses.
• Reflecting Plate (Catchlight Panel): Pull out the small white card from the top of the flash head. When used with bounce flash, this creates a small catchlight in the subject's eyes.
• These can be used independently or together.

6. High Speed Synchronization (HSS)

This flash supports High Speed Synchronization, allowing you to use flash at shutter speeds faster than your camera's normal flash sync speed. This is useful for freezing fast motion or using wide apertures in bright conditions.

• Activate HSS through your camera's flash settings menu. Refer to your camera's instruction manual for specific steps.
• Ensure the flash is securely mounted and powered on.

7. Wireless TTL Auto-Focus

The flash supports wireless TTL communication with compatible Canon DSLR cameras, allowing for off-camera flash photography with automatic exposure control.

• Set your camera and flash to the appropriate wireless TTL modes. Consult your camera's manual for wireless flash setup.
• Ensure clear line-of-sight between the camera's built-in flash (if acting as master) or a dedicated master unit and the Z1080AFZ-C flash's sensor.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the flash unit. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Do not use organic solvents or strong cleaning agents.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries and store the flash unit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Hot Shoe Contacts: Keep the hot shoe contacts clean and free of debris to ensure proper communication with the camera.

Troubleshooting

If the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact customer support.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or visit the official Bell+Howell website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.