Introduction
The Godox AD400 Pro Outdoor Flash Strobe is a portable 400Ws flash unit designed for professional photography. It features 2.4G TTL wireless capabilities, 1/8000s High-Speed Sync (HSS), and a 30W LED modeling lamp. This manual provides essential information for setup, operation, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
Image: Godox AD400 Pro Outdoor Flash Strobe with included accessories.
What's in the Box
- 1 x AD400Pro flash body
- 1 x Flash Tube
- 1 x Lithium Battery Pack
- 1 x Battery charger
- 1 x Power cord
- 1 x Reflector
- 1 x Bowens mount adapter ring
- 1 x Wrench
- Instruction Manual
Image: The complete package contents of the Godox AD400Pro, including the flash unit, battery, charger, and various accessories.
Setup
1. Battery Installation and Activation
The AD400Pro uses a professional lithium battery pack. To install, align the battery with the compartment and slide it in until it clicks securely. If the battery cannot be charged or is unused for a long period, it may enter a hibernation state to protect its performance. To activate the battery, press the battery activation key several times. This key is located next to the battery indicator lights.
Image: Close-up of the Godox AD400Pro battery, highlighting the activation key next to the power indicator lights.
Video: A short demonstration on how to activate the Godox AD400Pro battery.
2. Attaching Flash Tube and Reflector
Carefully insert the flash tube into the flash body. Then, attach the standard reflector by aligning it and twisting clockwise until secure. The AD400Pro also comes with a Bowens-mount adapter ring for compatibility with a wider range of accessories.
Image: Close-up of the Godox AD400Pro flash tube and LED modeling lamp, showing its design.
Operating Instructions
1. Power On/Off and Mode Selection
To power on the flash, press and hold the power button. The AD400Pro supports multiple flash modes including Manual (M), TTL (Through-The-Lens), and Multi (Stroboscopic) mode. Use the MODE button to cycle through these options. The display screen will show the current mode and settings.
Video: A tutorial demonstrating how to power on the Godox AD400Pro, switch between M, TTL, and Multi modes, and adjust flash settings.
2. Adjusting Output Power and Exposure Compensation
In Manual (M) mode, rotate the select dial to adjust the output power from 1/1 to 1/256. In TTL mode, press the SET button and then use the select dial to adjust flash exposure compensation (±3 EV). In Multi mode, press SET to adjust output power and then again to adjust flash frequency.
3. High-Speed Sync (HSS)
The AD400Pro supports High-Speed Sync up to 1/8000s. To enable HSS, press the HSS button on the control panel. This allows for shooting with wider apertures in bright conditions or freezing fast motion.
Image: An action shot demonstrating the effectiveness of 1/8000s High-Speed Sync with the Godox AD400Pro, freezing a fast-moving subject.
4. Modeling Lamp Control
The 30W LED modeling lamp can be controlled by pressing the dedicated modeling lamp button. You can switch between Percentage mode (adjust brightness from 10% to 100%) and PROP mode (brightness follows flash power). Long-press the button to switch modes and use the select dial to adjust brightness.
5. Wireless X System
The AD400Pro has a built-in 2.4G wireless X system, offering all-in-one functions and a transmission distance of up to 100 meters. It is compatible with Godox XPro, X2, and X3 series TTL wireless flash triggers. It can function as both a master and slave unit.
Image: The Godox AD400Pro demonstrating compatibility with various camera brands' TTL autoflash systems, including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Olympus, and Panasonic.
6. Two Power Supply Methods
The AD400Pro can be powered by its professional lithium battery pack, providing 380 full power flashes with a recycle time of 0.01-1 second. Alternatively, you can purchase the Godox AC400 AC power source (sold separately) for AC-DC dual-purpose operation, allowing for continuous studio use.
Image: The Godox AD400Pro connected to the optional AC400 AC power unit for continuous power supply.
Maintenance
Battery Care
- Do not completely discharge the battery before recharging.
- Charge the battery regularly, even when unused, to prevent over-discharge and maintain performance.
- If the battery enters hibernation, activate it by pressing the activation key several times before charging.
Troubleshooting
Battery Not Charging/Dead
If the battery is not charging, it might be in a hibernation state. Press the battery activation key (located next to the battery indicator) several times to reactivate it. Ensure you are using the specified charger.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 9.84 x 4.33 x 5.12 inches
- Item Weight: 0.01 ounces
- Item model number: AD400Pro
- Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required.
- Brand: GODOX
- Compatible Mountings: Bowens Mount, Canon E-TTL, Canon E-TTL II, Fujifilm X, Godox Mount, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony
- Camera Flash: Slave
- Flash Sync Speed: up to 1/8000 seconds
- Manufacturer: Godox
- Date First Available: July 9, 2018
Image: Size comparison of Godox AD200, AD400Pro, and AD600Pro flash units.
Warranty & Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Godox website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
