Phottix Indra500 TTL Battery Powered Studio Light (PH00307) User Manual

1. Introduction

The Phottix Indra500 TTL Monolight is a versatile and powerful studio light designed for professional photographers. It offers 500Ws of power, adjustable over an 8-stop range, and features TTL capabilities for Canon and Nikon cameras. This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Indra500 TTL Studio Light.

2. Safety Information

• Read all instructions before use.
• Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
• Avoid direct eye exposure to the flash.
• Ensure proper ventilation during operation to prevent overheating.
• Only use accessories and power sources approved by Phottix.
• Keep out of reach of children.

3. What's in the Box

• Indra 500 TTL Studio Light
• S-Mount Reflector
• Carrying Bag
• Shoulder Strap
• Battery Pack (5,000mAh) with body and cell
• Multi-Voltage Charger (US Plug)
• 3.5m Studio Light Power Cable
• User manual (on USB drive)

4. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components of your Phottix Indra500 TTL Studio Light.

5. Setup

5.1 Mounting the Light

1. Securely attach the Indra500 unit to a compatible light stand using the integrated mounting bracket.
2. Adjust the tilt angle as needed and tighten the locking knob.

5.2 Connecting the Battery Pack

1. Ensure both the Indra500 and the battery pack are powered off.
2. Connect the 3.5m studio light power cable from the Indra500 to the designated power output port on the Phottix Pro Indra Battery Pack.
3. The battery pack can be hung from the light stand using its strap or placed on a stable surface.

5.3 Attaching Light Modifiers

The Indra500 features a Bowens S-mount for compatibility with a wide range of light shaping tools.

1. Align the S-mount reflector (or other modifier) with the mounting ring on the Indra500.
2. Twist the modifier clockwise until it locks securely into place.
3. To remove, press the release button on the mounting ring and twist counter-clockwise.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Powering On/Off

Press and hold the power button on the Indra500 unit to turn it on or off. Ensure the battery pack is also powered on.

6.2 Adjusting Power Output

• Manual Mode: In manual mode, the power output can be adjusted from 1/128 to full power over an 8-stop range, in 1/3-stop increments, using the control dial on the unit or a compatible Phottix Odin Transmitter.
• TTL Mode: In TTL mode, the flash power is automatically determined by your camera. Exposure compensation can be adjusted remotely by +/- 3 EV using a compatible Phottix Odin Transmitter.

6.3 Wireless Control (Phottix Odin System)

The Indra500 has built-in Phottix Odin radio receivers, allowing wireless control with a Phottix Odin Transmitter (not included) up to 328 feet (100 meters).

• Channels and Groups: The unit supports 32 channels and 5 groups, enabling independent control of multiple lights.
• Compatibility: Compatible with Phottix Odin and Odin II Transmitters for TTL and manual control. It can also be triggered by Phottix Strato II Transmitters in Non-TTL mode.

6.4 High Speed Sync (HSS)

HSS allows flash synchronization at shutter speeds up to 1/8000 second, enabling control over ambient light and shooting with wide apertures in bright conditions.

6.5 Second Curtain Sync

This feature fires the flash at the end of the exposure, creating a natural-looking blur trail behind moving subjects.

6.6 Flash Bracketing

The Indra500 can automatically vary its power to capture a series of shots with different exposures around your primary exposure setting.

6.7 Stroboscopic Mode

Capture sequential action by varying the Hertz rate (1-100 Hz) and flash frequency (1-100 times per exposure).

6.8 Modeling Light Function

The daylight-balanced LED modeling light allows you to preview the light's effect on your subject before firing the flash, aiding in precise light placement and shaping.

6.9 Battery Pack Usage

• The included 5000mAh Li-ion battery pack provides up to 300 full-power flashes on a single charge.
• The battery pack can power two Indra500 heads simultaneously.
• A USB power port on the battery pack allows charging or powering of other USB-powered devices.

7. Key Features

• 500Ws power output with 8-stop adjustment range.
• TTL compatibility with Canon and Nikon cameras.
• Integrated Phottix Odin radio receiver for wireless control.
• High Speed Sync (HSS) up to 1/8000s.
• Second Curtain Sync, Flash Bracketing, and Stroboscopic Mode.
• Daylight-balanced LED modeling light.
• External 5000mAh Li-ion battery pack for portability and extended use.
• Bowens S-mount for wide modifier compatibility.
• Firmware upgradable via USB port.

8. Video Demonstration

Watch this official product video for a visual guide on the features and usage of the Phottix Indra500 TTL Studio Light.

9. Specifications

10. Troubleshooting

• Light not firing: Ensure the unit and battery pack are powered on, the battery is charged, and the wireless trigger (if used) is correctly set to the same channel and group as the light. Check camera flash settings.
• Inconsistent exposure: Verify TTL settings or manual power levels. Check for ambient light interference, especially when using HSS. Ensure the flash is recycling fully between shots.
• Wireless communication issues: Check battery levels in both transmitter and receiver. Ensure no obstructions are blocking the signal. Try changing channels to avoid interference.
• Overheating: Allow the unit to cool down if it becomes excessively hot. Avoid rapid consecutive full-power flashes.

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Phottix website or contact your authorized Phottix dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.