Manuals+

Mcoplus MCO-14EXTN

Mcoplus 14EXT-N 5500K Macro TTL Ring Flash Lite User Manual

Model: MCO-14EXTN

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Mcoplus 14EXT-N 5500K Macro TTL Ring Flash Lite. This advanced lighting solution is designed to enhance macro photography for Nikon DSLR cameras, offering precise control and consistent illumination.

Compatibility: This macro ring flash is compatible with Nikon digital SLR cameras, including models such as D7100, D7000, D750, D5300, D5500, D3300, D3100, D800, D600, D90, and D80.

2. What's in the Box

Please verify that all the following components are included in your package:

  • 1 x Mcoplus Macro Ring Flash Light
  • 1 x 49mm Metal Adapter Ring
  • 1 x 52mm Metal Adapter Ring
  • 1 x 55mm Metal Adapter Ring
  • 1 x 58mm Metal Adapter Ring
  • 1 x 67mm Metal Adapter Ring
  • 1 x 72mm Metal Adapter Ring
  • 1 x 77mm Metal Adapter Ring
  • 1 x Mini Stand
  • 1 x Protect Bag
  • 1 x User Manual
Mcoplus 14EXT-N Macro Ring Flash Lite kit with control unit, ring flash, adapter rings, and carry bag
Figure 2.1: Contents of the Mcoplus 14EXT-N Macro Ring Flash Lite package, including the flash unit, control unit, various adapter rings, a mini stand, and a protective bag.

3. Product Features

  • Double Lamp Macro Flash: Features an AB lamp brightness ratio mode, allowing for flexible lighting control to suit various macro photography needs.
  • TTL Ring Flash: Offers a maximum Guide Number (GN) of 14 (ISO 100 meter), ensuring sufficient illumination for close-up subjects.
  • External Power Socket: Provides an option for external power, extending usage time.
  • Automatic Settings Saving: The unit automatically saves your settings for convenience.
  • Sound Prompt System: Provides audible feedback for operational status.
  • High-Speed Recycling System: Ensures quick flash readiness for continuous shooting.
  • Large LCD Display: A clear and large LCD screen facilitates easy navigation and setting adjustments.
  • Multiple Filter Size Compatibility: Designed to fit lenses with various filter thread sizes using the included adapter rings.
Close-up of Mcoplus 14EXT-N control unit showing LCD display, mode, lamp, clear, ratio, on/off, flash, and adjustment buttons
Figure 3.1: Detailed view of the control unit, highlighting the LCD display and various function buttons for adjusting flash settings.
Graphic illustrating Mcoplus MC014EXT Ring Flash features including ETTL M, GN14 (ISO 100m), 22 Levels of Fine Tuning, and 8 Levels of Output Control
Figure 3.2: Overview of key features, including TTL metering, Guide Number, and fine-tuning capabilities.

4. Safety Information

Important Safety Precaution:

To prevent battery leakage and potential damage to the macro TTL ring flash, please remove the batteries if the unit will not be used for more than one week.

5. Setup and Installation

5.1. Battery Installation

  1. Locate the battery compartment on the control unit.
  2. Open the battery compartment cover.
  3. Insert the required batteries (typically AA, refer to the unit for specific type) ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
  4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Close-up of the battery compartment on the Mcoplus 14EXT-N control unit, showing slots for AA batteries
Figure 5.1: The battery compartment, illustrating the correct orientation for battery insertion.

5.2. Mounting the Control Unit to the Camera

  1. Slide the control unit's hot shoe mount into your camera's hot shoe.
  2. Secure the unit by rotating the locking ring clockwise until it is firmly attached.
Close-up of the hot shoe mount on the Mcoplus 14EXT-N control unit, showing the electrical contacts and locking mechanism
Figure 5.2: The hot shoe mount, which connects the control unit to the camera for communication and triggering.

5.3. Attaching the Ring Flash to the Lens

  1. Select the appropriate metal adapter ring that matches the filter thread size of your camera lens.
  2. Screw the chosen adapter ring onto the front filter thread of your lens.
  3. Align the ring flash unit with the adapter ring and gently push it into place until it clicks securely.
Mcoplus 14EXT-N adapter rings of various sizes (77mm, 67mm, 62mm, 58mm, 55mm, 52mm) and a diagram showing how an adapter ring connects the ring flash to a camera lens
Figure 5.3: The set of metal adapter rings and their function in attaching the ring flash to different lens sizes.
Mcoplus 14EXT-N Macro Ring Flash Lite attached to a camera lens, with the control unit mounted on the camera's hot shoe
Figure 5.4: The complete setup with the ring flash mounted on the lens and the control unit on the camera.

6. Operating Modes and Controls

The Mcoplus 14EXT-N offers several operating modes to provide versatile lighting for macro photography.

6.1. Power On/Off

Press the ON/OFF button on the control unit to power the flash on or off. The LCD display will illuminate upon activation.

6.2. Mode Selection

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

  • TTL (Through-The-Lens) Mode: The flash automatically adjusts its output based on the camera's metering system, providing accurate exposure. This is ideal for quick shooting and changing light conditions.
  • Manual Mode: Allows you to manually set the flash output power. This mode offers precise control for consistent lighting in controlled environments.
  • Multi Mode: (If available, based on general flash features) Allows for stroboscopic flash, firing multiple times during a single exposure.

6.3. Brightness and Ratio Adjustment

Use the ADJUSTMENT buttons (up/down, left/right) to modify settings within each mode.

  • In Manual mode, these buttons adjust the flash power output.
  • The RATIO button allows you to control the brightness balance between the left and right flash tubes (A and B lamps). This enables creative lighting effects, such as emphasizing texture or creating directional light.
Image demonstrating brightness adjustment levels from -1.5 to +1.5, with an example macro shot of a lily showing varying exposure
Figure 6.1: Illustration of brightness adjustment capabilities, allowing fine-tuning of exposure for optimal results.

6.4. AF Assist Lamp

The integrated LED AF Assist Lamp helps the camera achieve focus in low-light conditions. This lamp can be activated or deactivated as needed.

7. Maintenance and Care

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the flash unit and control unit. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by immediate drying. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
  • Lens Adapter Rings: Keep the metal adapter rings clean and free of dust or debris to ensure smooth attachment to your lens.
  • Storage: When not in use, store the flash unit and its accessories in the provided protective bag in a cool, dry place. As mentioned in safety information, remove batteries for long-term storage.

8. Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Flash does not fire.
  • Batteries are depleted or incorrectly inserted.
  • Flash unit not securely mounted to camera hot shoe.
  • Flash is in standby mode.
  • Replace batteries or ensure correct polarity.
  • Re-mount the control unit and tighten the locking ring.
  • Press any button to wake the flash.
Inconsistent flash exposure.
  • Incorrect mode selected (e.g., Manual instead of TTL).
  • Flash power setting is too high or too low.
  • Subject distance is outside effective flash range.
  • Switch to TTL mode for automatic exposure.
  • Adjust flash power in Manual mode or use exposure compensation.
  • Ensure subject is within the recommended working distance for macro photography.
Adapter ring does not fit lens.
  • Incorrect adapter ring size selected.
  • Verify your lens filter thread size and select the corresponding adapter ring from the included set.

9. Specifications

FeatureDetail
BrandMcoplus
Model NumberMCO-14EXTN
Product Dimensions6.3 x 5.51 x 4.72 inches
Item Weight2.15 pounds
Compatible MountingsNikon Camera (Macro TTL Ring Flash)
Camera Flash TypeMacro
Flash Sync Speed1/200
Date First AvailableSeptember 8, 2015

10. Warranty and Support

The product includes a warranty card. Please refer to the warranty card provided in your package for detailed information regarding warranty coverage, terms, and conditions. For technical support or service inquiries, please contact Mcoplus customer service through the contact information provided on the warranty card or the official Mcoplus website.