Yongnuo YN560-TX Manual Flash Controller Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Yongnuo YN560-TX is a manual flash controller designed for use with Yongnuo YN-560 III and YN-560 IV flashes, as well as RF-602, RF-603, and RF-603 II transceivers. It operates on a 2.4G FSK wireless system, offering remote control over flash power and zoom for up to 6 groups (A/B/C/D/E/F). This controller is specifically designed for Nikon cameras but can be used with other standard hot shoe cameras with some limitations. It provides a convenient way to manage multiple off-camera flashes from your camera's hot shoe.

2. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components and layout of your YN560-TX controller.

Figure 2.1: Top view of the Yongnuo YN560-TX Manual Flash Controller, clearly displaying the model name and brand logo.

Figure 2.2: Front view of the Yongnuo YN560-TX, showing the LCD screen, directional pad, and control buttons (GR/÷, TEST, MODE, ZOOM/CH, Hz/FN, ON/OFF).

Figure 2.3: The Yongnuo YN560-TX with its battery compartment open, illustrating the slots for two AA batteries.

Figure 2.4: A close-up view of the hot shoe mount on the Yongnuo YN560-TX, including the locking wheel and electrical contacts for camera connection.

3. Setup

3.1 Battery Installation

The YN560-TX requires two AA batteries (not included) for operation.

1. Locate the battery compartment on the side of the controller (refer to Figure 2.3).
2. Open the battery cover by sliding it in the direction indicated.
3. Insert two AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as marked inside the compartment.
4. Close the battery cover securely until it clicks into place.

3.2 Mounting to Camera

The YN560-TX features a standard hot shoe mount for attachment to your camera.

1. Slide the controller onto your camera's hot shoe until it stops.
2. Tighten the locking wheel on the hot shoe mount (refer to Figure 2.4) to secure the controller firmly in place.
3. Ensure the controller is firmly attached to prevent accidental dislodging during use.

Note: The YN560-TX is compatible with most cameras featuring a standard hot shoe, including Canon, Olympus, Panasonic, and Fuji. Sony and older Minolta cameras are not compatible due to their proprietary hot shoe design. While this version is optimized for Nikon, it will function on other brands with the limitation of not having the "waking the flash up" option.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Power On/Off

To power on the device, slide the ON/OFF switch (located on the side, near the directional pad) to the ON position. To power off, slide it to OFF.

4.2 Basic Operation Modes (M/Multi)

The YN560-TX supports two main operating modes:

• M (Manual) Mode: Allows manual adjustment of flash power output.
• Multi (Multiple) Mode: Enables stroboscopic flash for multiple flashes during a single exposure.

Press the MODE button to switch between these modes.

4.3 Channel Selection (16 Channels)

To select a communication channel for your flashes:

1. Press and hold the ZOOM/CH button for a few seconds.
2. Use the directional arrows (up/down) to select the desired channel (1-16).
3. Press the OK button (center of directional pad) to confirm your selection.
4. Important: Ensure the selected channel on the YN560-TX matches the channel set on all your Yongnuo flashes or receivers for proper communication.

4.4 Group Control (A/B/C/D/E/F)

The YN560-TX can control up to 6 individual groups of flashes, allowing for flexible lighting setups.

1. Activating Group Mode on YN560 III/IV Flashes: On the YN560-TX, simultaneously press the ZOOM/CH and Hz/FN buttons. The controller's screen will display "ACT" vertically.
2. On your YN560 III or YN560 IV flash unit, press the OK button (center). The group function will be activated on the flash, and it will display its assigned group.
3. Changing Flash Group: To change the group for a specific flash, press and hold the GR/: button on the YN560-TX, then use the directional arrows to select the desired group (A-F).
4. Once groups are assigned and activated, you can adjust power and zoom settings for each group remotely from the YN560-TX.

4.5 Zoom Control (24-105mm)

To adjust the flash zoom range for compatible flashes:

1. Press the ZOOM/CH button (do not hold, just a quick press).
2. Use the directional arrows (up/down) to set the desired zoom value (e.g., 24mm, 35mm, 50mm, 70mm, 80mm, 105mm).
3. Press OK to confirm your selection.

4.6 Compatibility with RF-602/RF-603/RF-603 II

When using the YN560-TX with RF-602 or RF-603 series receivers (instead of YN560 III/IV flashes with built-in receivers):

1. Power on the YN560-TX.
2. Press and hold the Hz/FN button. The screen will display the current communication mode (RF602 or RF603).
3. Use the directional arrows to switch between RF602 and RF603 modes as needed to match your receivers.
4. Press OK to confirm.
5. Note: When used with RF-602/RF-603 receivers, the YN560-TX can only trigger the flashes. Remote power and zoom adjustments are not supported; these must be made manually on each flash unit. Full remote control of power and zoom is available only with YN560 III/IV flashes.

4.7 Shutter Release Cable Port

The YN560-TX includes a 2.5mm port for a shutter release cable. This allows the controller to function as a remote shutter release for your camera (shutter release cable not included).

5. Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your YN560-TX controller.

• Keep Dry: Do not expose the device to rain, moisture, or high humidity. If it gets wet, power it off immediately and allow it to dry completely before attempting to use it again.
• Cleaning: Clean the exterior of the controller with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish or internal components.
• Battery Care: Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period (e.g., more than a month) to prevent battery leakage, which can cause damage to the battery compartment and electronics.
• Storage: Store the YN560-TX in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and strong magnetic fields.
• Handle with Care: Avoid dropping the device or subjecting it to strong impacts, as this can damage internal circuitry or the LCD screen.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your YN560-TX, refer to the following common problems and solutions.

6.1 Device does not power on.

• Battery Polarity: Check that the AA batteries are inserted correctly, matching the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals as indicated inside the battery compartment.
• Battery Condition: Replace the batteries with fresh ones. Low or depleted batteries can prevent the device from powering on.
• Power Switch: Ensure the ON/OFF switch is fully in the ON position.

6.2 Flashes are not triggering.

• Channel Mismatch: Verify that the YN560-TX and all connected flashes/receivers are set to the exact same communication channel (1-16).
• Communication Mode: If using RF-602 or RF-603 series receivers, ensure the YN560-TX is set to the corresponding communication mode (RF602 or RF603) by holding the Hz/FN button.
• Range and Obstacles: Check the distance between the controller and flashes. The maximum effective range is 100 meters, but obstacles (walls, large objects) can significantly reduce this range.
• Flash/Receiver Batteries: Confirm that all flashes and receivers have sufficient battery power.
• Hot Shoe Connection: Ensure the YN560-TX is properly seated and locked onto the camera's hot shoe. A loose or incomplete connection can prevent the camera from communicating with the controller.

6.3 Remote power/zoom control not working with RF-602/RF-603.

• Compatibility Limitation: The YN560-TX provides full remote power and zoom control only with Yongnuo YN560 III and YN560 IV flashes, which have built-in compatible receivers. When used with older RF-602/RF-603 receivers, the YN560-TX can only trigger the flashes. Power and zoom adjustments must be made manually on the flash units themselves.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the Yongnuo YN560-TX is not provided in the product details. For comprehensive warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Yongnuo website or contact your authorized retailer at the point of purchase.

For technical support, product inquiries, or service, please visit the official Yongnuo support page or contact their customer service department through the contact information provided on their website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.