Godox AD400Pro TTL Studio Flash User Manual

1. Introduction

The Godox AD400Pro TTL Studio Flash is a versatile and powerful outdoor flash unit designed for professional photographers. It integrates a built-in 2.4G wireless X system, high-speed sync (HSS), and a robust lithium battery, offering portability and consistent performance for various shooting environments. This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your AD400Pro flash.

Key features include:

• 400Ws high power output with stable color temperature.
• Built-in Godox 2.4G wireless X system for comprehensive compatibility with Canon E-TTL II, Nikon i-TTL, Sony, FUJIFILM, Olympus, and Panasonic TTL autoflash systems.
• High-Speed Sync up to 1/8000s.
• Fast recycle time of 0.01-1 seconds.
• Powerful 21.6V/2600mAh lithium battery providing approximately 390 full power flashes.
• 30W LED modeling lamp.
• Bowens mount compatibility for a wide range of accessories.

2. Safety Precautions

Please read and understand all safety instructions before using this product to prevent injury to yourself or others and damage to the product.

• Do not disassemble or modify this product. If the product fails, it must be repaired by an authorized maintenance center.
• Keep this product dry. Do not handle with wet hands or immerse in water.
• Do not use the flash unit in the presence of flammable gases, chemicals, or other materials. In certain circumstances, these materials might be sensitive to the strong light emitted from this flash unit, and fire or electromagnetic interference may result.
• Do not leave or store the flash unit in environments with high temperatures, such as in a vehicle on a hot day.
• Do not fire the flash directly into the eyes (especially those of babies) within short distances. Otherwise, visual impairment may occur.
• Use only the specified battery and charger.
• Ensure the product is securely mounted when in use to prevent accidental drops.
• Unplug the power cord when not in use or before cleaning.

3. What's in the Box

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• 1 * Godox AD400Pro Flash Unit
• 1 * Carry Bag
• 1 * Flash Tube
• 1 * Lithium Battery (21.6V/2600mAh)
• 1 * Battery Charger
• 1 * Power Cord
• 1 * Standard Reflector
• 1 * User Manual
• 1 * Bowens-Mount Adapter Ring

4. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of your AD400Pro flash unit.

Figure 4.1: AD400Pro Flash Unit with Labeled Components

Key Components:

• Flash Tube: The light-emitting element.
• Modeling Lamp: A continuous LED light for previewing lighting effects.
• LCD Display: Shows current settings, modes, and battery status.
• Control Panel: Buttons and dial for adjusting settings.
• Battery Compartment: Houses the lithium battery.
• Mounting Bracket: For attaching the flash to a light stand.
• Bowens Mount: Standard mount for attaching light modifiers.
• USB Type-C Port: For firmware upgrades.
• 3.5mm Sync Cord Jack: For wired triggering.

Control Buttons:

• Power Switch: Turns the unit on/off.
• Mode Selection Button: Cycles through flash modes (TTL, Manual, Multi).
• Wireless Selection Button: Activates/deactivates wireless function.
• Group/Channel Button: Sets wireless groups and channels.
• Select Dial: Navigates menus and adjusts values.
• Set Button: Confirms selections.
• Menu Button: Accesses system settings.
• Test Button: Fires a test flash.
• Modeling Lamp Button: Controls the modeling lamp.
• High Speed Sync Button: Activates HSS mode.

5. Setup

5.1 Attaching the Flash Tube

1. Align the pins on the flash tube with the sockets on the flash head.
2. Gently push the flash tube into place until it clicks securely.

Figure 5.1: Flash Tube Installation

5.2 Inserting the Battery

1. Open the battery compartment cover.
2. Insert the lithium battery, ensuring the contacts align correctly.
3. Close the battery compartment cover until it locks.

Figure 5.2: Lithium Battery

5.3 Mounting to a Light Stand

1. Loosen the bracket locking ring on the flash unit's mounting bracket.
2. Slide the mounting bracket onto the light stand stud.
3. Tighten the bracket locking ring to secure the flash unit.

5.4 Attaching Light Modifiers

The AD400Pro features a Bowens mount for attaching various light modifiers.

1. Align the modifier's mounting tabs with the slots on the Bowens mount adapter ring.
2. Insert the modifier and rotate it clockwise until it locks into place.
3. To remove, press the release button on the adapter ring and rotate counter-clockwise.

Figure 5.3: AD400Pro with Reflector

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Power On/Off

Press the Power Switch to turn the flash unit on or off.

6.2 Flash Modes

Press the Mode Selection Button to cycle through the available flash modes:

• TTL (Through-The-Lens) Mode: The flash output is automatically adjusted by the camera's metering system.
• Manual (M) Mode: Allows manual control over flash power output (e.g., 1/1 to 1/256).
• Multi (Stroboscopic) Mode: Fires a series of rapid flashes during a single exposure to capture multiple images of a moving subject.

Figure 6.1: TTL Auto Exposure in use

6.3 Wireless X System Operation

The AD400Pro features a built-in 2.4G wireless X system for remote control and triggering.

1. Master/Slave Function: The AD400Pro can act as a master or slave unit. When used as a slave, it can be triggered by Godox TTL camera flashes or other Godox outdoor TTL flashes.
2. Compatibility: Compatible with Godox X1T, X2T, XPro, and XProII series triggers (sold separately) for Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fuji, Panasonic, Olympus, and Pentax systems.
3. Setting Groups and Channels: Use the Group/Channel button and Select Dial to set the desired group and channel for wireless communication. Ensure your trigger and flash are set to the same group and channel.

Figure 6.2: Godox 2.4G Wireless System Compatibility

6.4 High-Speed Sync (HSS)

Press the HSS button to activate High-Speed Sync mode, allowing you to shoot at shutter speeds up to 1/8000s. This is useful for freezing fast motion or overpowering ambient light.

Figure 6.3: High-Speed Continuous Shooting

6.5 Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC)

In TTL mode, you can adjust the flash exposure compensation from -3 to +3 in 1/3rd stop increments using the Select Dial. This allows for fine-tuning of flash output based on environmental conditions or creative intent.

6.6 Modeling Lamp

Press the Modeling Lamp Button to turn the 30W LED modeling lamp on or off. The modeling lamp helps visualize the light's effect on your subject before firing the flash.

6.7 Power Supply Options

The AD400Pro can be powered by its included lithium battery or an optional AC adapter (Godox AD-AC, sold separately) for continuous studio use.

Figure 6.4: Dual Power Methods (Battery and AC Adapter)

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning

Clean the flash unit regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. For the flash tube, use a clean, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away any dust or fingerprints.

7.2 Battery Care

• It is recommended to recharge the battery at regular intervals, even if not fully discharged. Do not wait for the battery to be completely depleted before recharging.
• If the battery cannot be recharged due to prolonged inactivity, press the button on the right side of the indicator several times to activate the battery.
• Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

7.3 Storage

When not in use for extended periods, remove the battery from the flash unit and store both in a protective case in a cool, dry environment.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your AD400Pro flash, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Godox customer support.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

10.1 Warranty Information

The Godox AD400Pro TTL Studio Flash comes with a 365-day warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

10.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty service, please contact your authorized Godox dealer or visit the official Godox website for support contact information.