PHOTOOLEX FK310 LCD Camera Flash Speedlite Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the PHOTOOLEX FK310 LCD Camera Flash Speedlite. The FK310 is a versatile flash unit designed to provide powerful and stable illumination for various photography needs. It features multiple flash modes and adjustable power output, compatible with most SLR and digital cameras equipped with a single-contact hot shoe.

Figure 1: PHOTOOLEX FK310 Speedlite and accessories.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• PHOTOOLEX FK310 LCD Flash Speedlite x 1
• Protective Pouch x 1
• Mini Stand x 1
• Instruction Manual x 1
• Color Filter Set (12 pieces) x 1

Figure 2: Included package contents.

3. Product Overview

The FK310 Speedlite features an intuitive LCD screen and clearly labeled controls for ease of use. Key components include:

• LCD Display: Shows current settings, flash mode, power output, and battery status.
• Mode Button: Cycles through flash modes (M, S1, S2, Multi).
• Test Button (PILOT): Fires a test flash or wakes the unit from sleep mode.
• Fn Left/Right Buttons: Adjust parameters such as power output, flash times, and frequency.
• Power Switch: Turns the unit ON/OFF.
• Hot Shoe: For mounting the flash onto a camera.
• External Interface: Includes a charging socket and sync cord jack for additional connectivity.
• Wireless Trigger Sensor: Built-in light control receiver for optical slave functionality.

Figure 3: Control panel and LCD display.

Figure 4: External interfaces and wireless trigger sensor.

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation

The FK310 Speedlite requires four (4) AA alkaline or Ni-MH batteries (not included).

1. Locate the battery compartment on the side of the flash unit.
2. Slide the battery compartment cover open.
3. Insert four AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

Figure 5: Battery compartment for 4 AA batteries.

4.2 Mounting to Camera

The FK310 Speedlite is designed for cameras with a standard single-contact hot shoe.

1. Ensure the flash unit is turned OFF.
2. Slide the flash's hot shoe foot into your camera's hot shoe mount.
3. Tighten the locking ring or lever on the flash unit to secure it firmly to the camera.

Figure 6: Flash mounted on a camera hot shoe.

4.3 Camera Compatibility

The FK310 Speedlite is compatible with most cameras featuring a standard single-contact hot shoe, including models from Canon, Nikon, Sony (excluding Sony a series DSLR with non-standard hot shoe), Panasonic, Olympus, Fujifilm, Pentax, Sigma, Minolta, and Leica. It does not support TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering or camera menu setting functions.

Important: Verify your camera's hot shoe has electrical contacts for proper function. Some older or entry-level models may lack these.

Figure 7: Hot shoe compatibility examples.

5. Operating Modes

The FK310 Speedlite offers three primary flash modes: Manual (M), S1, and S2, along with a Multi Flash mode.

5.1 Manual Mode (M)

In Manual mode, you manually set the flash output power. This mode provides precise control over flash intensity.

• Press the MODE button until 'M' is displayed on the LCD screen.
• Use the Fn Left and Fn Right buttons to adjust the flash output power. The available range is from 1/128 (lowest power) to 1/4 (highest power).
• The flash will fire synchronously when the camera shutter is pressed.

Figure 8: Manual mode power output levels.

5.2 S1 Mode (Optical Slave)

S1 mode is a light-induced flash mode. The FK310 will fire when it detects the main flash from another flash unit (e.g., your camera's built-in flash or another speedlite). This mode is suitable for main flashes that do not emit a pre-flash.

• Press the MODE button until 'S1' is displayed on the LCD screen.
• The FK310 will synchronize with the first flash it detects.

5.3 S2 Mode (Pre-flash Ignore Optical Slave)

S2 mode is also a light-induced flash mode, designed for use with main flashes that emit a pre-flash (a small, quick flash before the main flash). The FK310 will ignore the pre-flash and synchronize with the second, main flash.

• Press the MODE button until 'S2' is displayed on the LCD screen.
• The FK310 will ignore the pre-flash and synchronize with the main flash.

5.4 Multi Flash Mode

Multi flash mode allows the flash to fire multiple times during a single exposure, creating stroboscopic effects. You can set the output power, flash frequency, and number of flashes.

• Press the MODE button until 'Multi' is displayed on the LCD screen.
• Use the Fn Left and Fn Right buttons to adjust the output power (range: 1/128 to 1/4).
• Press the flash times/frequency select button (refer to the LCD icon) to adjust flash times and frequency using the Fn Left and Fn Right buttons.

6. Power Control and Test Flash

6.1 Adjusting Power Output

The flash unit offers 22 levels of power output control, visible on the LCD screen. In Manual mode, use the Fn Left and Fn Right buttons to adjust the brightness. The output power range is typically from 1/128 to 1/4.

6.2 Test Flash

To fire a test flash with the current settings or to wake the flash from sleep mode, press the Test (PILOT) button.

6.3 Resetting the Flash

To reset the flash unit to its default settings, press and hold both the MODE button and the Test (PILOT) button simultaneously.

7. Specifications

8. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your PHOTOOLEX FK310 Speedlite, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• 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. Avoid using strong detergents or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries to prevent leakage and store the flash in its protective pouch in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Avoid dropping the flash unit or subjecting it to strong impacts. Protect the flash tube and LCD screen from scratches.

9. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your FK310 Speedlite, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Flash does not fire:
  • Ensure the flash is turned ON and securely mounted on the camera's hot shoe.
  • Check battery levels and replace if necessary.
  • Verify camera compatibility (single-contact hot shoe with electrical contacts).
  • In S1/S2 modes, ensure the optical sensor is unobstructed and receiving light from the main flash.
• Flash output is too weak/strong:
  • Adjust the power output level in Manual mode using the Fn buttons.
  • Check camera ISO and aperture settings.
• Flash does not synchronize with camera:
  • Ensure the flash is fully seated in the hot shoe.
  • Confirm your camera has a standard single-contact hot shoe.
  • If using S1/S2 mode, ensure the main flash is firing correctly.
• LCD screen is blank or unresponsive:
  • Check battery levels.
  • Try turning the unit OFF and ON again.
  • Perform a factory reset (press and hold MODE + Test buttons).

10. Warranty and Support

The PHOTOOLEX FK310 LCD Camera Flash Speedlite comes with a 24-month warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures reliable operation under normal use.

For technical support, warranty claims, or any questions regarding your product, please contact PHOTOOLEX customer service. Refer to the contact information provided on the product packaging or the official PHOTOOLEX website.