1. Introduction
The Nissin Commander Air 1 is a sophisticated 2.4GHz radio transmission wireless flash system designed for Sony cameras. This commander unit provides reliable and flexible control over compatible Nissin flashes, offering advanced features such as multi-group control, TTL flash exposure compensation, and high-speed synchronization. Its intuitive interface ensures ease of use for both novice and experienced photographers.
Figure 1.1: Angled view of the Nissin Commander Air 1 for Sony, showcasing its compact design and control panel.
2. Safety Information
- Do not expose the unit to water or high humidity.
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the unit to strong impacts.
- Use only specified AAA batteries. Ensure correct polarity when inserting.
- Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the unit yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Nissin Commander Air 1 (for Sony)
- 2 x AAA batteries
- Instruction Manual (this document)
4. Product Features
- 2.4GHz ISM band radio transmission for reliable wireless communication.
- Wireless range up to 30 meters (98 feet).
- Control up to 3 groups (A, B, C) of Nissin flashes.
- 8 selectable communication channels to prevent interference.
- Supports TTL (Through-The-Lens) and Manual exposure control.
- TTL flash exposure compensation from -2 EV to +2 EV in 1/2 EV steps.
- Manual output control from 1/1 to 1/128 power.
- High-Speed Synchronization (HSS) up to 1/8000 sec.
- Supports First and Second Curtain Synchronization.
- User-friendly control panel with colorful LED display and select dial.
5. Setup
5.1 Battery Installation
The Nissin Commander Air 1 operates on two AAA batteries.
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the side of the unit.
- 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 securely.
Figure 5.1: Side view of the Commander Air 1, illustrating the battery compartment location.
5.2 Mounting to Camera
Attach the Commander Air 1 to your camera's hot shoe.
- Slide the mounting foot of the Commander Air 1 into the camera's hot shoe.
- Push the unit forward until it clicks into place.
- Ensure the "Unlock" lever (if present) is in the locked position to secure the unit.
5.3 Powering On/Off
Press and hold the power button (usually marked with a circle and a vertical line) for approximately 1 second to turn the unit on or off. The LED display will illuminate when the unit is powered on.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Control Panel Overview
The Commander Air 1 features a clear LED control panel and a multi-function select dial for easy operation.
Figure 6.1: Top-down view of the Commander Air 1 control panel, showing the TTL/Manual settings, group indicators, and select dial.
- TTL/Manual Indicator: Displays the current exposure mode.
- Exposure Compensation/Power Level: Shows the adjustment value for TTL or manual power output.
- Group Indicators (A, B, C): Illuminates to show active groups and their settings.
- Select Dial: Used to navigate menus and adjust values.
- Mode Button: Cycles through different modes (e.g., TTL, Manual).
- Power Button: Turns the unit on/off.
- Flash Button: Test flash trigger.
6.2 Setting Channels and IDs
To prevent interference, the Commander Air 1 allows setting communication channels and IDs. Ensure the commander and all connected flashes are set to the same channel and ID.
- Refer to the specific instructions for setting channels and IDs in your Nissin flash units.
- On the Commander Air 1, use the select dial to navigate to the channel/ID setting menu (consult the full manual for exact steps if not immediately apparent on the display).
- Select one of the 8 available channels.
Figure 6.2: Illustration demonstrating how multiple Air 1 units can operate in proximity without interference due to their unique ID system.
6.3 Controlling Flash Groups (A, B, C)
The Commander Air 1 can control up to three distinct flash groups (A, B, and C) independently.
- Use the select dial to highlight the desired group (A, B, or C) on the display.
- Press the select dial to enter the settings for that group.
- Adjust the exposure mode (TTL or Manual) and power level/compensation for the selected group.
Figure 6.3: Visual representation of the Commander Air 1's ability to control three independent flash groups (A, B, C).
6.4 TTL Flash Exposure Compensation
In TTL mode, you can adjust the flash output compensation from -2 EV to +2 EV in 1/2 EV steps.
- Ensure the unit is in TTL mode.
- Select the group you wish to adjust.
- Rotate the select dial to increase or decrease the exposure compensation value.
6.5 Manual Output Control
In Manual mode, you can precisely control the flash power output from 1/1 (full power) to 1/128 power.
- Switch the unit to Manual mode.
- Select the group you wish to adjust.
- Rotate the select dial to set the desired power level.
6.6 High-Speed Synchronization (HSS)
The Commander Air 1 supports High-Speed Synchronization, allowing flash photography at shutter speeds up to 1/8000 second. This feature is automatically enabled when the camera's shutter speed exceeds its normal flash sync speed.
6.7 First and Second Curtain Synchronization
The unit supports both First Curtain and Second Curtain synchronization. These settings are typically controlled via your camera's flash menu or the connected Nissin flash unit.
6.8 Controlling Zoom/Beam Angle
The Commander Air 1 can remotely control the zoom position (beam angle) of compatible Nissin flash units, optimizing light coverage for different focal lengths.
Figure 6.4: Illustration of the Commander Air 1's capability to remotely adjust the flash unit's beam angle.
Refer to your Nissin flash unit's manual for details on enabling remote zoom control.
7. Maintenance
- Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Keep the hot shoe contacts clean and free of debris.
- Store the unit in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Remove batteries during long-term storage to prevent leakage.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on. | Batteries are dead or incorrectly inserted. | Replace batteries or check polarity. |
| Flashes do not trigger. | Incorrect channel/ID settings; flashes not powered on; out of range. | Ensure commander and flashes are on the same channel/ID. Power on flashes. Reduce distance to flashes (max 30m). |
| Inconsistent flash output. | Weak batteries; interference; incorrect group settings. | Replace batteries. Change channel. Verify group settings. |
| Commander not recognized by camera. | Not securely mounted; hot shoe contacts dirty. | Re-mount securely. Clean camera hot shoe and commander contacts. |
9. Specifications
| Model | NI-ZC0A01S |
| Compatibility | Sony Cameras (Multi-Interface Shoe) |
| Mount | Hot Shoe |
| Frequency | 2.4GHz ISM band radio transmission |
| Exposure Control | Manual / TTL |
| Vari-Power | 1/1 - 1/128 |
| TTL Dedication | Yes |
| Max Flash Sync Speed | 1/8000 sec (High-Speed Sync) |
| Exposure Compensation | -2 EV to +2 EV (in 1/2 EV steps) |
| Wireless Transmission Method | RF |
| Wireless Distance | Up to 30 m (98 ft) |
| Wireless Communication Channels | 8 Channels |
| Wireless Groups | 3 Groups (A, B, C) |
| Power Source | 2 x AAA batteries |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2.6 x 2.4 x 2.2 inches (6.60 x 6.10 x 5.59 cm) |
| Weight (without batteries) | 1.9 oz (53.86 g) |
Figure 9.1: The Nissin Air 1 system offers a reliable wireless communication range of up to 30 meters.
10. Warranty and Support
Nissin products are covered by a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Nissin website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or service inquiries, please contact Nissin customer support through their official channels.
Official Nissin Website: www.nissindigital.com
