1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the ZEUS TZ-500C Electronic Flash. This high-performance flash unit is designed to provide advanced lighting capabilities for your Canon camera, enhancing your photography with powerful and precise illumination. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your flash unit.
2. Safety Instructions
- Do not disassemble or attempt to repair the flash unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Keep the flash unit dry. Do not expose it to rain, moisture, or high humidity.
- Avoid direct eye exposure to the flash light, especially at close range, as it can cause temporary vision impairment.
- Use only recommended batteries. Incorrect battery types or improper installation can lead to leakage, overheating, or explosion.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not operate the flash in the presence of flammable gases or liquids.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all the following items are included in your package:
- ZEUS TZ-500C Electronic Flash Unit
- Padded Cordura Case with separate compartment
- Stofen-type Diffuser
- User Manual (this document)
4. Product Features
The ZEUS TZ-500C flash unit offers a range of advanced features for versatile lighting control:
- E-TTL Digital Light Control: Automatic exposure control for Canon cameras.
- High Guide Number: Powerful output with a guide number of 50.
- LCD Panel: Clear digital display for settings and information.
- Motorized Zoom: Automatic and manual zoom head from 18mm to 135mm (14mm with wide-angle diffuser).
- Durable Construction: Features a metal hot shoe and metal battery compartment hinge for enhanced longevity.
- AF Assist Lamp: Manual auxiliary AF lamp for improved autofocus in low-light conditions.
- Rear Curtain Sync: Supports synchronization with the rear curtain for creative light trails.
- Fast Recycle Time: Approximately 3 seconds recycle time.
- High-Speed Continuous Shooting: Supports up to 8 frames per second.
- Acoustic Warning: Audible alerts for flash readiness and other functions.
- Integrated Diffuser and Reflector Panel: Built-in wide-angle diffuser and retractable reflector panel.
- Multiple Flash Modes: E-TTL automatic, Manual, and Stroboscopic modes.
- Flash Exposure Compensation: Adjustable in 0.3-stop increments.
- Exposure Confirmation Indicator: Light indicator to confirm correct flash exposure.
5. Setup
5.1 Battery Installation
- Open the battery compartment cover located on the side of the flash unit.
- Insert four AA-size batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely. The metal hinge ensures durability.
5.2 Mounting the Flash on Your Camera
- Ensure both the flash and your camera are powered off.
- Slide the flash unit's metal hot shoe into your camera's hot shoe mount until it clicks into place.
- Rotate the locking ring or lever on the flash unit to secure it firmly to the camera.
5.3 Powering On/Off
Press and hold the ON/OFF button on the flash unit to power it on or off. The LCD panel will illuminate upon power-on.
Figure 1: Front view of the ZEUS TZ-500C Electronic Flash. This image shows the main flash head, the red AF assist lamp, and the overall design of the unit.
Figure 2: Top view of the ZEUS TZ-500C Electronic Flash, displaying the LCD panel and control buttons. The LCD shows current settings like flash mode, zoom, and power output. Buttons for C.Fn, Mode, Pilot, Zoom, and On/Off are visible.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Flash Modes
Press the MODE button to cycle through the available flash modes:
- E-TTL (Automatic): The flash automatically determines the optimal light output based on camera metering.
- Manual (M): Allows you to manually set the flash power output (e.g., 1/1, 1/2, 1/4, up to 1/128).
- Stroboscopic (Multi): Fires a series of rapid flashes during a single exposure to capture multiple images of a moving subject.
6.2 Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC)
In E-TTL mode, you can adjust the flash exposure compensation to fine-tune the flash output. Use the directional buttons (usually up/down) to adjust the FEC in 0.3-stop increments.
6.3 Zoom Adjustment
The flash head features a motorized zoom. In E-TTL mode, it typically adjusts automatically to match the lens focal length. You can also manually adjust the zoom by pressing the ZOOM button and using the directional controls.
6.4 AF Assist Lamp
The auxiliary AF assist lamp automatically illuminates when the camera's autofocus system is engaged in low-light conditions, aiding in precise focusing. This feature can usually be toggled on/off via custom functions (C.Fn).
6.5 Rear Curtain Sync
This feature allows the flash to fire just before the second curtain closes, creating a natural-looking blur behind a moving subject. Activate this setting through your camera's flash function menu.
6.6 Using Built-in Diffuser and Reflector
- Wide-Angle Diffuser: Pull out the small panel from the flash head to spread the light for wider coverage (effective for 14mm focal length).
- Reflector Panel: Pull out the white reflector card from the flash head to create a catchlight in the subject's eyes when bouncing the flash.
6.7 Using the Stofen-type Diffuser
The included Stofen-type diffuser can be attached to the flash head to soften the light and reduce harsh shadows, providing a more even illumination. Simply slide it over the flash head until it is securely in place.
7. 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 to prevent leakage. Store the flash in its padded case in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery Care: Replace all batteries at the same time. Do not mix old and new batteries or different types of batteries.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Flash does not fire. | Low or dead batteries; Flash not securely mounted; Flash powered off; Camera settings incorrect. | Replace batteries; Re-mount flash securely; Power on flash; Check camera flash settings. |
| Flash output is too weak/strong. | Incorrect FEC setting; Manual power setting too low/high; Subject too far/close. | Adjust FEC; Adjust manual power setting; Move closer/further from subject. |
| AF assist lamp does not light up. | Low light conditions not met; Feature disabled in custom functions. | Ensure camera is attempting to focus in low light; Check flash custom function settings. |
| Long recycle time. | Low battery power; High power output setting. | Replace batteries; Use lower power settings if possible. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | ZEUS |
| Model | TZ-500C |
| Guide Number | 50 |
| Zoom Range | 18-135mm (14mm with wide-angle diffuser) |
| Flash Modes | E-TTL, Manual, Stroboscopic |
| Recycle Time | Approx. 3 seconds |
| Power Source | 4x AA batteries |
| Flash Exposure Compensation | +/- 0.3 stop increments |
| AF Assist Lamp | Integrated |
| Hot Shoe | Metal |
| Manufacturer | ZEUS |
| ASIN | B00URMP8SK |
10. Warranty and Support
10.1 Warranty Information
Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific warranty terms and conditions. Typically, ZEUS products come with a limited manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period from the date of purchase. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
10.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact ZEUS customer support. Contact information can usually be found on the manufacturer's official website or on the product packaging.
