1. Introduction
The Meike MK-320S is a compact and versatile Mini TTL Speedlite designed for Sony MI Hot Shoe DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras. It offers a range of advanced flash modes and features to enhance your photography, including automatic TTL, manual control, optical slave functions, and a built-in LED light for video. Its small size makes it an ideal companion for on-the-go photographers.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- Meike MK-320S Mini TTL Speedlite
- Mini Stand
- Diffuser
- Protection Bag
- User Manual
3. Product Overview
The MK-320S features a compact design with intuitive controls and flexible head movement for various lighting scenarios.
Figure 1: Front view of the Meike MK-320S Speedlite, showing the flash head, LCD screen, and control buttons.
3.1. Physical Features
- Flash Head: Can rotate and tilt for bounce flash.
- LCD Screen: Displays current settings and modes.
- Control Buttons: MODE, SET, navigation buttons for adjustments.
- Hot Shoe: For mounting onto compatible Sony cameras.
- Micro USB Port: For charging (with rechargeable batteries) and firmware upgrades.
Figure 2: Illustration of the Speedlite head's rotation capabilities. The head can tilt from -7 to 90 degrees vertically and rotate 60 to 90 degrees horizontally.
The flash head offers significant flexibility:
- Vertical Rotation: -7 to 90 degrees.
- Horizontal Rotation: 60 to 90 degrees.
Figure 3: Close-up of the Speedlite's hot shoe mount and the included diffuser.
4. Setup
4.1. Battery Installation
The MK-320S requires 2 AA batteries (alkaline or Ni-MH rechargeable). To install:
- Open the battery compartment cover located on the side of the flash unit.
- Insert the 2 AA batteries according to the polarity indicators (+/-) inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Figure 4: Open battery compartment showing insertion of 2 AA batteries.
4.2. Mounting on Camera
To attach the Speedlite to your Sony camera:
- Ensure the camera and Speedlite are both powered off.
- Remove the hot shoe protector from the Speedlite.
- Slide the Speedlite's hot shoe mount firmly into your camera's hot shoe.
- Tighten the locking ring or lever on the Speedlite to secure it in place.
5. Operating Modes
The MK-320S offers various flash modes to suit different photographic needs. Use the MODE button to cycle through the available modes.
Figure 5: Icons representing various Speedlite features and modes.
5.1. TTL (Through-The-Lens) Automatic Flash
In TTL mode, the flash automatically adjusts its output based on the camera's metering system, providing optimal exposure. You can fine-tune the flash output using Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC) if needed.
Figure 6: The Speedlite mounted on a camera, illustrating its use in TTL automatic flash mode.
5.2. Manual Mode (M)
Manual mode allows you to set the flash output power manually, from full power (1/1) down to 1/128 power. This provides precise control over lighting for creative effects.
5.3. Multi Mode (Stroboscopic)
Multi mode fires the flash multiple times during a single exposure, creating a stroboscopic effect for capturing motion sequences.
5.4. Optical Slave Modes (S1/S2)
These modes allow the MK-320S to be triggered wirelessly by another flash unit. S1 mode triggers the flash upon detecting the main flash. S2 mode ignores the pre-flash of a TTL system and triggers on the main flash.
5.5. Front/Rear Curtain Sync
The Speedlite supports both front and rear curtain synchronization, allowing you to control whether the flash fires at the beginning or end of the shutter exposure.
5.6. Built-in LED Light
A highlight LED light is integrated into the unit, providing auxiliary continuous lighting for video clips or as a modeling light.
6. Maintenance
- Keep the Speedlite dry. Do not handle with wet hands.
- Avoid strong impacts or dropping the unit.
- Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or harsh chemicals.
- Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period.
7. Troubleshooting
- Flash not firing: Check battery level, ensure Speedlite is securely mounted on the hot shoe, and verify camera flash settings.
- Incorrect exposure: Adjust Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC) in TTL mode, or manually adjust power output in M mode. Check camera ISO and aperture settings.
- Overheating: The unit has overheating protection. Allow it to cool down if it stops firing after rapid use.
8. Specifications
Figure 7: Detailed specifications table for the Meike MK-320S Speedlite.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Model | MK-320S |
| Compatible Mountings | Sony MI Hot Shoe |
| Flash Type | Speedlite |
| Circuit Design | Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) |
| Flash Index (Guide Number) | 32 GN (ISO 100, 105mm) |
| Flash Modes | TTL, M, Multi, S1, S2 |
| Coverage | 24mm |
| Power Supply | 2 x AA Alkaline or Ni-MH Batteries |
| Recycle Time | Approx. 5 seconds |
| Dimensions | 4.3 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches (110 x 65 x 36mm) |
| Item Weight | 11.2 ounces (150g) |
| Phototonus Distance | 15 meters indoor, 10 meters outdoor |
| Flash Sync Speed | 1/128 |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Meike website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
