LightPix Labs FLASHQ-M20-MANUAL
FlashQ M20 Manual Flash User Manual
Model: FLASHQ-M20-MANUAL | Brand: LightPix Labs
1. Introduction
The FlashQ M20 is a compact and versatile manual flash unit designed for photographers seeking portable and powerful lighting solutions. It features a robust metal body, a detachable radio transmitter for off-camera control, and an integrated LED video light. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance of your FlashQ M20.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- 1 x FlashQ M20 main body
- 1 x FlashQ Transmitter (Manual Triggering, with built-in lithium battery)
- 1 x Color gel pack (6 colors)
- 1 x Protective pouch
- 1 x USB charging cable (two micro-USB outputs)
- 1 x Protective cap for Transmitter’s hot shoe
- 1 x User manual
Note: AA batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.
3. Product Components
Familiarize yourself with the main components of your FlashQ M20 and its transmitter.
Figure 3.1: Front view of the FlashQ M20 main body, showing the display screen, control buttons (Mode, Up, Down, Left, Right), Test button, and On/Off switch. The detachable transmitter is shown attached at the bottom.
Figure 3.2: Front view of the FlashQ M20, highlighting the flash tube at the top and the integrated LED video light panel below it. The LightPix Labs branding is visible on the body.
Figure 3.3: The FlashQ M20 main body positioned above its detached wireless transmitter. This illustrates the modular design, allowing for off-camera flash control.
Figure 3.4: An angled view of the FlashQ M20, displaying the screen interface. The screen shows settings for the video light, including brightness percentage and color temperature (e.g., "VIDEO LIGHT 5000K 10%").
Figure 3.5: The FlashQ M20 shown alongside its included pack of six color gels. These gels can be inserted into the flash head to modify the color of the light output.
Figure 3.6: The FlashQ M20 main body and its detached transmitter held in a hand, providing a visual reference for their compact size and portability.
4. Setup
4.1 Battery Installation (FlashQ M20 Main Body)
- Locate the battery compartment on the FlashQ M20 main body.
- Open the compartment cover.
- Insert two AA-size alkaline or rechargeable Ni-MH batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
4.2 Charging the FlashQ Transmitter
The FlashQ Transmitter has a built-in lithium battery.
- Connect the supplied USB charging cable to the micro-USB port on the transmitter.
- Connect the other end of the USB cable to a USB power source (e.g., computer USB port, USB wall adapter).
- The charging indicator light will show the charging status. A full charge provides approximately 30 hours of operation and 120 days of standby time.
4.3 Mounting on Camera
The FlashQ M20 is compatible with most cameras featuring a standard ISO hot shoe, including Sony Multi Interface Shoe (MIS).
- Ensure both the camera and the FlashQ M20 are powered off.
- Slide the FlashQ M20's hot shoe foot into your camera's hot shoe mount until it clicks into place.
- Tighten the locking mechanism (if present) on the flash unit to secure it to the camera.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Power On/Off
Locate the ON/OFF switch on the side of the FlashQ M20 main body and slide it to the desired position.
5.2 Manual Flash Power Control
The FlashQ M20 offers manual flash power ratio control.
- Press the MODE button until the flash power setting is displayed on the screen.
- Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to adjust the power ratio from 1/1 (full power) to 1/64. Fine adjustments in 1/3 EV steps are available from 1/1 to 1/16.
- Press the TEST button to fire a test flash at the current power setting.
5.3 LED Video Light Operation
The integrated LED video light can be used for continuous lighting.
- Press the MODE button until the LED video light settings are displayed.
- Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to adjust the brightness (Max. 60 lux output at 1 meter).
- Use the Left and Right arrow buttons to adjust the color temperature from 3000K to 5500K.
5.4 Wireless Control (Off-Camera Flash)
The detachable transmitter enables wireless control of the FlashQ M20.
- Detach the transmitter from the FlashQ M20 main body by pressing the 'PUSH RELEASE' button.
- Mount the transmitter onto your camera's hot shoe.
- Ensure both the transmitter and the FlashQ M20 are powered on and set to the same wireless channel (if applicable, refer to the on-screen menu for channel settings).
- The transmitter will now wirelessly trigger the FlashQ M20 from up to 29 feet away using 2.4GHz low-power digital radio.
5.5 Optical Slave Modes (S1/S2)
The FlashQ M20 supports S1 and S2 optical slave modes for triggering by another flash.
- S1 Mode: The FlashQ M20 will fire when it detects the first flash from a master flash. This is suitable for manual flash systems.
- S2 Mode: The FlashQ M20 will ignore the pre-flash (metering flash) from a master flash and fire on the main flash. This is suitable for TTL flash systems that emit a pre-flash.
To activate: Press the MODE button until the optical slave mode is displayed, then use the arrow buttons to select S1 or S2.
5.6 Flash Head Tilting
The flash head can be tilted for bounce flash photography.
- The flash head can tilt up to 90 degrees.
- It features click-stops at 0°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90° for precise positioning.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning
- Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the flash unit.
- For stubborn marks, a slightly damp cloth with mild soap can be used, followed by a dry cloth.
- Do not use strong detergents, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.
- Keep the flash tube and LED panel free of dust and fingerprints for optimal performance.
6.2 Storage
- When not in use for extended periods, remove the AA batteries from the main body to prevent leakage.
- Store the FlashQ M20 and its accessories in the provided protective pouch in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Flash does not fire. | Low or dead batteries; Incorrect mounting; Flash not powered on; Incorrect camera settings. | Replace or recharge batteries. Ensure flash is securely mounted and powered on. Check camera flash settings (e.g., external flash enabled). |
| LED video light does not turn on. | Low battery; Incorrect mode selected. | Recharge batteries. Press the MODE button to cycle to the LED video light setting. |
| Wireless triggering fails. | Transmitter not attached to camera; Flash and transmitter not paired/on same channel; Out of range. | Ensure transmitter is on camera hot shoe. Verify both units are powered on and set to the same wireless channel. Reduce distance between flash and transmitter (max 29ft). |
| Flash output is inconsistent. | Low battery power; Overheating. | Replace or recharge batteries. Allow the flash to cool down if used for rapid consecutive flashes. |
8. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Guide Number | 66ft (at ISO 100) |
| Focal Length Coverage | 32mm (Full-Frame) |
| Manual Flash Power | 1/1 to 1/64 (1/3 EV steps from 1/1 to 1/16) |
| LED Video Light Output | Max. 60 lux at 1 meter |
| LED Color Temperature | 3000K~5500K (adjustable, ±300K tolerance), CRI 90 |
| Wireless Operating Range | 29ft (2.4GHz low-power digital radio) |
| Flash Head Tilt | Up to 90° (click-stops at 0°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°) |
| Other Functions | S1 / S2 optical slave, modeling light (LED) |
| Transmitter Battery Life | 30 hours operation, 120 days standby |
| M20 Main Body Batteries | Two AA-size alkaline / rechargeable Ni-MH batteries |
| Recycling Time (1/1 power) | 5 sec. (Ni-MH), 6 sec. (alkaline) |
| Number of Flashes | 100 - 2000 flashes |
| LED Lighting Time | Approx. 1 hour (full power LED, Ni-MH batteries) |
| Flash Color Temperature | 5600K±200K (daylight) |
| Dimensions (with Transmitter) | 2.3(W) x 4.0(H) x 1.2(D) inches |
| Weight (without battery) | 4.6oz |
| Compatible Mountings | Fujifilm, Leica, Ricoh, Pentax, Sony, Canon, Nikon, Lumix, Four Thirds, Standard ISO hot shoe |
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, terms, and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official LightPix Labs website. For technical support, product inquiries, or service requests, please contact LightPix Labs customer support through their official channels.
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