MEIKE MK-320C Speedlite Flash Instruction Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the MEIKE MK-320C Speedlite Flash. This compact and versatile flash unit is designed for Canon DSLR and Mirrorless cameras, offering a range of advanced features to enhance your photography. This manual provides detailed instructions for proper setup, operation, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your device.

Key Features

• High Guide Number (GN): 32 (at 105mm focal length, ISO 100).
• Supports TTL (Through-The-Lens) automatic flash mode for accurate exposure.
• Manual Flash (M) mode with power adjustments from 1/1 to 1/128 (±1/3 increments).
• Optical Slave modes (S1/S2) for off-camera triggering.
• Stroboscopic (Multi) mode for capturing multiple images of a moving subject in a single frame.
• Adjustable Tilt & Swivel Head: Rotates -7° (Down) to 90° (Up) vertically and 150° horizontally.
• LCD Lattice screen for clear display of settings.
• Built-in LED-Assistive preview focus light.
• Metal hot shoe for secure camera mounting.
• Supports Front/Rear Curtain Sync.
• Overheating protection and automatic sleep mode.
• External Micro USB interface for charging (with rechargeable batteries) and firmware upgrades.

Figure 1: MEIKE MK-320C Speedlite Flash highlighting its various modes and features.

Package Contents

The MEIKE MK-320C Speedlite Flash package includes the following items:

• 1 x MK-320 Speedlite Flash Unit
• 1 x Diffuser for MK-320
• 1 x Flash Stand
• 1 x Instruction Manual

Setup

1. Battery Installation

The MK-320C requires 2 AA alkaline batteries or AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries. To install batteries:

1. Open the battery compartment cover located on the side of the flash unit.
2. Insert two AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

Figure 2: Proper installation of AA batteries into the MK-320C Speedlite Flash.

2. Mounting to Camera

To attach the flash to your camera's hot shoe:

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

Figure 3: The MK-320C Speedlite Flash securely mounted on a Canon DSLR camera.

3. Attaching the Diffuser

For softer, more even light, attach the included diffuser:

1. Gently slide the diffuser over the flash head until it is snug.

Figure 4: Front view of the MK-320C with the diffuser attached.

Operating Instructions

1. Power On/Off

Press and hold the power button on the flash unit to turn it on or off. The LCD screen will illuminate when powered on.

2. Mode Selection

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

• TTL Mode: Automatic flash exposure. The flash output is determined by the camera's metering system.
• Manual (M) Mode: Allows you to manually set the flash power from 1/1 (full power) to 1/128 in 1/3 stop increments. Use the arrow buttons to adjust power.
• S1/S2 Slave Modes: For optical slave triggering. S1 mode fires when it detects another flash. S2 mode ignores the pre-flash of a master flash and fires on the main flash.
• Stroboscopic (RPT) Mode: Fires a series of rapid flashes during a single exposure to capture multiple images of a moving subject.

3. Flash Head Adjustment

The flash head can be tilted and swiveled to direct light for bounce flash or direct illumination:

• Vertical Rotation: -7° (downward) to 90° (upward).
• Horizontal Rotation: 150° (left to right).

Figure 5: Flash head rotation capabilities for versatile lighting.

4. LED-Assistive Preview Focus

The built-in LED light can provide auxiliary illumination for focusing in low-light conditions or for video recording.

5. Wireless Control

The MK-320C supports both on-camera and off-camera flash triggering. In master mode, it can wirelessly control other Meike series slave flashes.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your MEIKE MK-320C Speedlite Flash, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Keep the flash unit dry and clean. Avoid exposure to water or excessive humidity.
• Clean the flash head and hot shoe contacts regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dust and debris buildup.
• Remove batteries when the flash is not in use for extended periods to prevent leakage.
• Store the flash in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Avoid dropping or subjecting the flash to strong impacts.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your MEIKE MK-320C Speedlite Flash, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Flash not firing: Check if batteries are correctly installed and charged. Ensure the flash is securely mounted on the camera's hot shoe. Verify the flash mode and power settings.
• Inconsistent exposure: In TTL mode, ensure your camera's metering is set appropriately for the scene. In Manual mode, adjust flash power as needed. Check for obstructions between the flash and subject.
• Overheating: The flash has built-in overheating protection. If it overheats, it will temporarily stop firing. Allow it to cool down before resuming use. Reduce flash power or frequency of use to prevent future overheating.
• Wireless triggering issues: Ensure the master and slave units are set to compatible modes (S1/S2) and are within range. Check for any strong light sources that might interfere with optical triggering.

If problems persist, please contact Meike customer support for further assistance.

Specifications

Figure 6: Detailed specifications of the MK-320C Speedlite Flash.

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included in your product package or visit the official Meike website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.