Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective operation of your Digitek Speedlite DFL985C TTL Flash with Inbuilt Receiver for Canon cameras. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and to prevent damage to the unit or injury.
Safety Precautions
- Do not expose the flash unit to rain, moisture, or extreme humidity.
- Avoid direct eye contact with the flash light, especially at close range, as it can cause temporary vision impairment.
- Keep the unit away from flammable materials.
- Do not disassemble or attempt to repair the flash unit yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel.
- Use only specified AA alkaline or Ni-MH rechargeable batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries or different types of batteries.
- Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period.
Product Overview
The Digitek Speedlite DFL985C is a high-performance TTL flash designed for Canon cameras, featuring a built-in 2.4G wireless transmission system and an optical slave function. It offers versatile lighting control for various photographic situations.
Components
Figure 1: Front and side view of the Digitek Speedlite DFL985C flash unit. This image displays the flash head, main body, and the hot shoe mount.
Figure 2: Rear panel of the DFL985C, showing the large LCD display and control buttons for Channel (CH), Group (GR), Mode, and adjustment buttons (+, -, SET).
Figure 3: The Digitek Speedlite DFL985C flash unit shown alongside the DRM 008 wireless transmitter, which is included for remote flash control.
Setup
Battery Installation
- Open the battery compartment cover located on the side of the flash unit.
- Insert four (4) AA alkaline or Ni-MH rechargeable batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Mounting the Flash on Camera
- Ensure your camera is powered off.
- Slide the flash unit's hot shoe mount into your camera's hot shoe slot.
- Tighten the locking wheel on the flash unit to secure it firmly to the camera.
DRM 008 Transmitter Setup
The included DRM 008 transmitter enables wireless control of the DFL985C flash unit.
- Install batteries into the DRM 008 transmitter (refer to the transmitter's specific manual for battery type and installation).
- Mount the DRM 008 transmitter onto your camera's hot shoe.
- Power on both the flash unit and the transmitter.
- Set the same channel and group on both the transmitter and the flash unit to establish a wireless connection. Refer to the operating modes section for setting channels and groups on the flash.
Operating Modes
The DFL985C offers several flash modes to suit various photographic needs.
TTL Mode (Through-The-Lens)
In TTL mode, the flash automatically determines the appropriate light output based on the camera's metering system. This provides convenient and accurate flash exposure.
- Press the MODE button until 'TTL' is displayed on the LCD.
- Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC) can be adjusted in this mode using the +/- buttons to fine-tune exposure.
Manual (M) Mode
Manual mode allows you to set the flash power output manually from 1/1 (full power) to 1/128 power, in 0.3 EV steps. This provides precise control over lighting.
- Press the MODE button until 'M' is displayed.
- Use the +/- buttons to adjust the flash power output.
Multi (Stroboscopic) Mode
Multi mode fires a series of rapid flashes during a single exposure, useful for capturing multiple movements of a subject in one frame.
- Press the MODE button until 'MULTI' is displayed.
- Adjust the flash frequency (Hz) and number of flashes using the control buttons.
S1 & S2 Optical Slave Modes
These modes allow the DFL985C to be triggered by another flash unit without a physical connection.
- Press the MODE button until 'S1' or 'S2' is displayed.
- S1 Mode: Triggers the flash upon sensing the first flash from a master unit. Suitable for manual flash systems.
- S2 Mode: Ignores the pre-flash of a master TTL flash and triggers on the main flash. Suitable for TTL flash systems.
High-Speed Sync (HSS)
The DFL985C supports High-Speed Sync up to 1/8000s, allowing you to use flash at shutter speeds faster than your camera's native sync speed. This is ideal for freezing fast action or using wide apertures in bright conditions.
Zoom Function
The flash head's zoom position can be adjusted automatically or manually to match the lens focal length, optimizing light coverage.
- Auto Zoom: The flash automatically adjusts its zoom position (24-105mm for Canon) to match the camera's lens focal length.
- Manual Zoom: You can manually set the zoom position to control the spread of light.
Advanced Features
- Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC): Adjust flash output in TTL mode.
- Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): Automatically takes multiple shots at different flash exposures.
- Overheating Protection: The unit includes a protection mechanism to prevent damage from excessive use.
- Rear Curtain Sync: Synchronizes the flash with the closing of the shutter curtain, creating motion blur behind the subject.
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.
- Storage: Store the flash unit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove batteries if storing for extended periods.
- Battery Care: Always use fresh batteries. If using rechargeable batteries, ensure they are fully charged before use and properly maintained according to their manufacturer's instructions.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Flash does not fire. | Low batteries, incorrect mode, flash not securely mounted, camera settings. | Replace batteries, check flash mode (TTL/M), ensure secure hot shoe connection, verify camera flash settings. |
| Flash output is too weak/strong. | Incorrect flash power setting (M mode), FEC adjustment (TTL mode), distance to subject. | Adjust manual power output, modify FEC, ensure subject is within flash range. |
| Wireless trigger not working. | Mismatched channel/group, transmitter batteries low, distance too far. | Ensure flash and transmitter are on the same channel/group, replace transmitter batteries, reduce distance between units. |
| Flash overheats and stops firing. | Rapid consecutive flashes. | Allow the flash to cool down. Reduce the frequency of flashes. |
Specifications
Figure 4: Detailed specifications for the Digitek Speedlite DFL985C flash unit.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Flash Display | Large LCD Panel |
| Guide No. | 60 (ISO 100, 105mm Zoom) |
| Color Temperature | 5500 ± 100K |
| PC Sync Port | Available |
| Flash Sync Speed | High Speed Sync up to 1/8000s, Rear Curtain Sync |
| Zoom Position (Canon) | 24-28-35-50-70-85-105mm |
| Horizontal Rotation Angle | 0-180 Degrees |
| Vertical Rotation Angle | 7-90 Degrees upward and 0-7 Degree Down |
| Flash Modes | TTL / Manual / Multi / S1 and S2 |
| Flash Control | 8 Grade Hi-Speed control (1/128-1/1), Step Length: 0.3EV, total 22 Fine Tuning Stall |
| Wireless Distance | Indoor 20-30 Mtrs. and Outdoor 10-15 Mtrs. |
| Optical Slave | Instant Sync Mode S1 and S2 |
| Power Saving | Available |
| Flash Recycle Time | About 0.5-3.2 seconds |
| Additional Features | FEC, AEB, Manual and Auto Zoom, Over Heating Protection |
| Peripheral Interface | Hot shoe, PC Mount and External charge Mount |
| Power Source | 4xAA Alkaline / Rechargeable (Ni-MH) Battery |
| Lighting Time | 100-1500 times (Using AA Alkaline Cells) |
| Product Dimensions | 20 x 7 x 6 cm |
| Item Weight | 320 g |
Warranty and Support
The Digitek Speedlite DFL985C comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms, duration, and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Digitek website. For technical support, service, or inquiries, please contact Digitek customer service through their official channels. You can find more information about Digitek products and support at the Digitek Store on Amazon.
