YONGNUO YN585EX TTL Wireless Speedlite Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the YONGNUO YN585EX TTL Wireless Speedlite. This instruction manual provides detailed information on the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your flash unit. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and to prevent damage to the product.

The YN585EX is designed for Pentax digital cameras, offering TTL (Through-The-Lens) and manual flash capabilities, including wireless signal reception from compatible Pentax master units.

2. Safety Information

• 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. Product Features

• TTL Wireless Signal Reception: Supports receiving wireless signals from Pentax master units such as AF-360FGZ and AF540FGZ II, as well as other compatible Pentax cameras.
• Multiple Channels: Features 4 wireless channels for flexible off-camera flash setups.
• Flash Modes: Supports off-camera TTL and manual flash modes.
• Zoom Function: Offers auto and manual zooming of the flash head. A firmware upgrade may be required for optimal zoom functionality.
• Sync Modes: Includes Rear Curtain Sync and S1/S2 pre-flash avoidance modes.
• AF Assist Light: Integrated AF assist light for improved autofocus performance in low-light conditions.
• Compatibility: Specifically designed for Pentax cameras.
• Flash Sync Speed: Up to 1/250 second.
• Note: This unit does not support High-Speed Sync (HSS).

4. Setup

4.1. Battery Installation

The YN585EX uses four AA-size batteries. Ensure batteries are inserted with correct polarity.

Figure 4.1: Open the battery compartment cover and insert four AA batteries according to the polarity indicators.

1. Open the battery compartment cover located on the side of the flash unit.
2. Insert four AA batteries, ensuring the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals align with the indicators inside the compartment.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

4.2. Mounting on Camera

Attach the flash unit to your camera's hot shoe mount.

Figure 4.2: The hot shoe mount with its locking mechanism.

1. Slide the flash unit's hot shoe foot into your camera's hot shoe slot.
2. Tighten the locking ring or lever on the flash unit to secure it firmly to the camera.

4.3. Powering On/Off

Press the ON/OFF button to power the flash unit on or off. The LCD screen will illuminate upon power-on.

Figure 4.3: Front view of the YN585EX, highlighting the control panel and LCD display.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Basic Flash Modes

Press the MODE button to cycle through available flash modes:

• P-TTL (Program Through-The-Lens): The flash output is automatically controlled by the camera's metering system for optimal exposure.
• M (Manual): Allows you to manually set the flash output power from 1/1 (full power) to 1/128 in 1/3 stop increments. Use the directional buttons to adjust the power level.

5.2. Wireless Operation

The YN585EX can function as a slave unit, receiving wireless signals from a compatible Pentax master flash or camera's built-in flash.

1. Set your camera's master flash or built-in flash to wireless master mode.
2. On the YN585EX, press the MODE button until the wireless slave icon appears on the LCD.
3. Use the SYNC/CH button to select one of the 4 available channels (CH1-CH4) to match the master unit.
4. Position the YN585EX so its optical sensor can receive the master unit's signal.

5.3. Zoom Function

The flash head's zoom position can be adjusted to match the focal length of your lens.

• Auto Zoom: In P-TTL mode, the flash automatically adjusts the zoom position based on the camera's focal length information.
• Manual Zoom: Press the ZOOM/FN button to manually adjust the zoom range. Use the directional buttons to select the desired focal length (e.g., 24mm, 35mm, 50mm, 70mm, 85mm, 105mm).

5.4. Sync Modes

• Rear Curtain Sync: Synchronizes the flash with the closing of the shutter, creating a natural-looking blur effect for moving subjects. This setting is typically controlled via your camera's menu.
• S1/S2 Modes: These are optical slave modes. S1 fires the flash when it detects another flash burst. S2 ignores the pre-flash of a master unit and fires on the main flash. These modes are useful for triggering the YN585EX as an optical slave with non-TTL master flashes.

5.5. AF Assist Light

The AF assist light projects a pattern to help the camera's autofocus system in low-light conditions. It activates automatically when needed, provided the flash is mounted on the camera and powered on.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the flash unit. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
• Battery Care: Remove batteries if the flash unit will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage. Store batteries in a cool, dry place.
• Storage: Store the flash unit in a cool, dry, and dust-free environment. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

7. Troubleshooting

• Flash Not Firing:
  • Check if the flash is powered on and batteries are correctly installed and charged.
  • Ensure the flash is securely mounted on the camera's hot shoe.
  • Verify camera and flash settings are compatible (e.g., flash mode, sync mode).
• Incorrect Exposure:
  • In P-TTL mode, check camera exposure compensation settings.
  • In Manual mode, adjust flash power output.
  • Ensure the flash head zoom matches the lens focal length for even illumination.
• Overheat Error: If an overheat error occurs, power off the flash and allow it to cool down before further use. This typically happens after rapid, consecutive full-power flashes.
• Zoom Function Issues: If the auto or manual zoom function does not operate as expected, check the YONGNUO website for potential firmware updates. Connecting the flash via USB and updating firmware may resolve such issues.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official YONGNUO website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.