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PocketWizard MultiMAX

1. celeres ete apne e ce 7 Icons in this Manual ter REG Ries 8 ea ur eR uu Ea Sepa a REA 9 Communication Technology nn 9 SERICO 9 Special Features 0 EEn RENE n 9 Part RefererioB cent tcp tel es este aed UTR b 10 sett 6144 ettet cet dont aee 11 edes tete o rela atenta dea ete d ie ei 12 godes EMITE 12 Ue DR 12 PORT T PORT 2 ode api Se 12 Status LEDs zip eV eee URB erre d al 12 Getting Started 13 Safety WarfilligS s o estare tr e 13 Battery Informations scere satan te hace Re PES RU maed nun rs 13 Battery eoa are re ar ener a o Rr re EI oe RO a tes 14 MOUNTING gt eere e ee OR USE eene debe 14 VELCRO DEEP 14 1 420 MOUNT xr dees ned a 14 SMOG ce ce 14 coh 14 Quick Setup Basic Radio Slave 15 Basic Setup for Remote 15 Triggering Multiple Flashes With Multiple RECEIVE Units 16 Connecting MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode to Flash 16 Standard Radio Op ration EREPGGCE 17 Transceiver C
2. TRANSMIT Unit is powered on in TRANSMITTER TX mode RECEIVE e RECEIVE Unit is powered on in RECEIVER RX mode OFF Unit is powered OFF Power Switch Keypad AB CD L Selects Quad Triggering Zones and Local Also used in menu navigation and numeric entry TEST Triggers MultiMAX Press to test operation or to trigger remote units and or attached cameras flashes e X LCD and keypad Hold down for key lock Pressing it while in any menu will bring you back to the Main Screen enters menus and is used to enter or select items e Used for menu selection selecting channels and numeric entry Port 1 Port 2 CAMERA PORT 1 CAMERA Input from camera sync terminal external trigger PORT FLASH button Flash Confirmation Cable or other device 1 Output to camera motor drive flash or other device FLASH PORT 2 Output to flash camera motor drive or other device Status LED Displays the following information e Blinking every few seconds power on ready for trigger Blinking in sync with trigger normal triggering Steady continuously triggered from radio hot shoe or PORT 1 performing delay or contact time Once every two seconds performing Intervalometer or Multi pop function Dark power off or poor battery condition Port 1 Port 2 Status LED 12 GETTING STARTED A Please pay attention to th
3. ___ _ o X o SpeedCycler 17 Compatibility MultiMAX channels are compatible with all PocketWizard radio slave products per the table below Digital Radio Model MultiMAX Compatible Channels Older MultiMAX units 16 7 32 Quad Triggering or Fast Mode 10 PocketWizard 10 Channel Classic PocketWizard 16 Channel Classic PocketWizard Plus 1 4 PocketWizard Plus PocketWizard MAX 16 7 32 Quad Triggering or Fast Mode Sekonic Digital Radio Transmitter 16 Module RT 32 L358 L608 L608 CINE 7 32 Quad Triggerin Sekonic Digital Radio Receiver RR 4 4 Sekonic Digital Radio Receiver RR 32 16 7 32 Quad Triggering or Fast Mode Calumet Radio Equipped Turbo Filter C 16 32 Quad Triggering Profoto Flash Packs with built in PocketWizard Receivers orman Flash Packs with built in PocketWizard 16 Receivers 32 Quad Triggering Dyna Lite Flash Packs with built in PocketWizard 16 Receivers 32 Quad Triggering Kodak DCS Pro 14n DCS Pro 14nx and DCS Pro 16 SLR n Digital Cameras with PocketWizard Upgrade 1 32 Quad Triggering ikon D1 series with PocketWizard Upgrade 16 32 Quad Triggering The digital radio design of the MultiMAX will enable it to be fully compatible with future PocketWizard products A PocketWizard manufactures products for different world frequencies US CE and JAPAN Not every product is ma
4. 39 Applications of Advanced 40 Self Timer or Cable Release 40 TIE Auto flash Helper ie ett eR tee 40 Programmed Sequence Shooting 41 Recycle LOCKOUT t ais ene en 41 Camera Equalization 0 42 Lag Time 43 One Unit Equalization 46 Two Unit Equalization a rr Ree m 46 Equalization Adjustments 48 oe daa s 49 SpecifiCatiOris iier Re 49 Radio Iriformatior uox ort Chro DERE wate Rare s 50 Maximum and Minimum 51 Saved Settings c oec reU P Sa ce pU T pct ek PT 51 Troubleshooting 52 When RE HER RE 52 Reset to Default Factory Settings 52 Sustaining High 53 Time Conversion 54 Fractions to Decimal cote eme te e t mene v 54 To find the correct PocketWizard brand cables for your flash and cameras and to experience other products like the Plus please visit www PocketWiza
5. Enter in a delay of 0 0020 1 500 5 Trigger the camera normally The on camera flash will trigger immediately and have enough time to complete its full exposure After the set delay time the remote flash will trigger This operation is dependent on camera sync speed and flash duration The delay time of 0 0020 1 500 will work with a focal plane shutter 35mm camera at 1 125 shutter speed and a flash duration not longer than 1 400 40 Use the formula below to help calculate your maximum safe shutter speed based on your flash durations Refer to the Time Conversion Charts section Page 54 to convert fractions into decimals for the formula 1 Add your maximum longest flash durations together decimals not fractions 2 Add another 0 002 focal plane or 0 001 leaf shutter to compensate for shutter travel time 3 On the Shutter Speed Conversion chart find the next highest decimal number in the chart The corresponding shutter speed is the fastest speed you can safely use for this procedure 4 Set the delay time on the MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode to the same number as your on camera flash unit s longest flash duration Programmed Sequence Shooting Traveling stroboscopic effects can be achieved by using multiple MultiMAX units set for RECEIVE mode in delay mode Set each RECEIVE unit to a different delay and trigger from a PocketWizard The sequence is identical on repeat triggers Recycle Lockout Some flash u
6. 114 years Saved Settings Settings are saved whenever the amp MENU key is pressed The following settings are always RESET on normal power down e Counter resets to saved load value if count is resets to 0 if count is 1 Rear Curtain Sync fraction display returns to 1 1 Any dynamic numeric entry screen displayed as unit is powered off will default to its previous saved setting The screens affected are Load counter Delay time and Interval Multipop or Intervalometer The following settings are saved on power down TROUBLESHOOTING When in doubt Many issues can be resolved by powering the unit off and then back on again or by resetting to factory default settings Before proceeding to any other troubleshooting procedure follow these steps 1 Set power to OFF 2 Wait 10 seconds or until display completely blanks 3 Set power to RECEIVE or TRANSMIT Reset to Default Factory Settings 1 Set power switch to OFF 2 Press and hold key 3 Continue to hold C and set the power switch to either RECEIVE or TRANSMIT 4 Release key when CLEAR RESET message appears Default factory settings are as follows Transmitter Zones AB C D Lall enabled Relay Mode OFF Medium 0 0100 sec Display Contrast Delay Time 00 00 01 1 00 sec Interval Time Multipop Time Medium omoose Equalize Calculated Time ITA Counter Mode Counter Load lt gt Ihe following indicato
7. MENU to return to the main screen Press amp MENU A A see the section A Delay Remotes PORT 2 Page 31 and adjust the delay number as needed 32 A Delay Menu RECEIVER MENU A A Enters the delay menu for a MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode Each RECEIVE unit can have its own delay for sequences or for synchronization To easily delay all RECEIVE units the same amount use the Transmitter s delay lt gt RECEIVE units set to delay do not perform confirmation A PORT 1 PORT 2 AA A Enters the numeric entry screen PORT 1 and PORT 2 are delayed the same amount and trigger simultaneously after the set delay time Both ports remain contacted for the set contact time Triggers can come from either the TEST key or a radio trigger from any PocketWizard Transmitter On the main display a small letter D will appear to denote that PORT 2 will be delayed 037 Pressing L will toggle Relay Mode on and off but PORT 2 will still trigger after the set delay See the Relay Mode section Page 39 for more information PORT 2 MENU AA wl DELAY USING AsPORTI PORTZ B P RTZ C EQUALIZE RECEIVE unit Delay Menu Y DELAY 0 0500 RX RECEIVE unit PORT 1 PORT 2 delayed Enters the numeric entry screen PORT 1 triggers immediately upon pressing TEST key or Radio Trigger PORT 1 contact is held for the set delay time PORT 2 triggers after the set delay time an
8. Readings below 40 are unlikely What should the numbers be As low as possible and still have reliable operation These numbers are only for comparing one channel to another or for verifying RF noise as a possible factor on your channel or location of choice There is no perfect number so operation needs to be evaluated in context with these numbers PocketWizard PocketWizard com FAST Noise displays noise readings as fast as the MultiMAX can sample If this number is consistently high there is a strong interference source in the area It samples so quickly however that brief transient noise is hard to note SLOW Noise displays the highest noise sample out of the last 150 This will help you see live transient or very brief noise like another PocketWizard radio triggering PEAK Noise displays the highest noise reading FAST or SLOW since you last cleared it or changed channels This will help you see the highest noise moment but it is not real time It is good for catching the most transient of interference or as a reference when evaluating a better location Reset using the A key When all three numbers are roughly equal this represents the base line RF noise for that channel in that location Lower is better Choose a channel with less noise or move to a less noisy area If FAST is low compared to SLOW or PEAK then there may be transient RF noise in the area Something is probably creating RF nois
9. a Custom ID and you have a US FCC radio What is a Custom ID It is a private channel on a MultiMAX In hyper crowded shooting environments Custom IDs give you the confidence to know that your remote flash or camera can only be triggered by you and not any other photographer It is an exclusive code installed on top of an existing PocketWizard frequency usually replacing Channel 17 with your new custom code and frequency combination No other manufacturer offers such a unique and valuable service Because Custom IDs require a firmware modification this service is only available directly through LPA Design Contact us via our inquiries page on PocketWizard com http www pocketwizard com contact inquiry Move Custom ID Frequency A CUSTOM ID FREQ Use this menu to move your Custom IDs to a different frequency This is useful if there is RF noise on your Custom ID s default frequency see Noise Sniffer for more information or if another user has a Custom ID on your default frequency Select the Custom ID you want to move to a different frequency by pressing A or B Only Quad Triggering Channel IDs Channels 17 32 can be moved Only your first 2 Custom IDs can be moved On the next screen you will see SAME AS CHAN XX and a number The number is the frequency 349 000 349 000 MHz Using the arrow keys move your Custom ID to the frequency you want and press amp MENU Every frequency is shared by a MultiMAX Quad Trigge
10. antennas parallel and at least 12 apart Make sure the radios and especially the antennas are not near any large metal concrete or high water content objects People and trees are mostly water Make sure they are not blocked by these objects or by hills Crowds gathering between you and your remotes will reduce range Try to keep the antennas above the heads of crowds PocketWizard radios will have reduced performance if deployed close to the ground Try to get them up high 4 feet or higher improves range dramatically Consider using any miniphone headphone extension cable including a PocketWizard MMX cable to locate the receiver higher up Avoid mounting them to long metal railings or other building structures Avoid mounting them near long cable runs for other equipment or close to building wiring Do not wrap connecting cables around the antenna Keep them away from the antenna Use right angle connectors whenever possible Do not affix the radio by taping the antenna to something Especially do not use duct tape or any tape containing metal fibers on the antenna Avoid using long cable runs with PocketWizard radios If you must use a long cable run deploy ferrite chokes http www radioshack com product index jsp productid 2103222 near the PocketWizard end of the long run Use more than one ferrite choke when possible Place them 6 to 12 inches from the radio and from each other Dead spots have a
11. at 1 125 with one MultiMAX follow these steps 1 Set the MultiMAX to RECEIVE mode 2 Measure lag times of cameras as described and record the fastest lag for each 3 Determine which camera is faster and which is slower overall 4 Determine the delay time a If the slow camera is more consistent use this formula i Slower Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS Faster Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS 0 0025 calculated safety margini b If the fast camera is more consistent use this formula i Slower Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS Faster Camera s Fastest Lag Time PLUS 0 0025 calculated safety margin 5 Press A B then enter the calculated delay time from Step 4 6 Attach the slower camera s motor drive to PORT 1 7 Attach the faster camera s motor drive to PORT 2 8 Attach the flash to the more consistent smallest lag time variance camera 9 Trigger the RECEIVE unit either from the TEST key or from a TRANSMIT unit Two Unit Equalization Two Unit Equalization is basically the same as above but allows the two cameras to be more remote The difference in calculations compensates for radio trigger delay 1 Set one MultiMAX to RECEIVE mode and one to TRANSMIT mode 2 Using the RECEIVE unit measure the lag times of each camera as described above and record the fastest lag for each 3 Determine which camera is faster and which is slower overall 4 Determine the delay time a Ifthe slow camera is more consistent use this f
12. check out the Frequently Asked Questions section on the website 53 TIME CONVERSION CHARTS Fractions to Decimal Here are some common photographic fractions in decimal values All numbers are rounded to the nearest 0001 or 1 10 000th 37 These times are not Rear Curtain Sync times These are precision numbers Rear Curtain Sync numbers are always less than the exact conversions Refer to the Rear Curtain section Page 32 for more information 0 25 seconds 1 200 0 005 seconds 0 125 seconds 1 250 0 004 seconds 94 00000 O 2005 PocketWizZard For more information about using your PocketWizard product visit www PocketWizard com MultiMAX USB version Manual Change Revision 1 4 LPF100
13. non USB radios cannot get the new features e still perform their original functions normally when paired with USB enabled radios PocketWizard PocketWizard com Special Note for CE MultiMAX Owners The owner s manual included with your purchase refers to the US 344 354 MHz model of the MultiMAX The following adjustments or errata should be noted for proper operation of your CE 433 MHz MultiMAX Page 18 The CE MultiMAX is not compatible with the following products as these products were not produced on CE frequencies 10 Channel Classic 16 Channel Classic PocketWizard MAX and Calumet TurboFilter The CE MultiMAX cannot be powered by the ACC port The PocketWizard Radio Frequencies table refers to USA frequencies CE units do not operate on these frequencies and are not compatible with PocketWizard radios on these frequencies CE PocketWizard Radio Frequencies Channel Frequency Unit Digital Code 433 62 Plus or 1519 MHz muttimax 24 Bit 17 32 20 Bit in y FAST MODE 2010 LPA Design Inc All rights reserved Product features and specifications are subject to change without notice PocketWizard ControlTL MiniTT1 FlexTT5 HyperSync Plus Il and MultiMAX are either trademarks registered trademarks of LPA Design Inc All other trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners This product is covered under a warranty For more inf
14. remain saved even after power is turned off If the unit is powered off while a numeric entry screen is displayed the displayed number will not be saved lt gt L can also be used in Numeric Entry In some cases D and L select the same digit 37 To perform Lag Time Measurement use Equalize Mode see Page 34 which requires that the MultiMAX be set for RECEIVE L To quickly get to the lowest setting press and release the A key once selects the highest digit then press and hold the W key 24 Y a CH e0 SET INTERVRL e USING RBCDtS Example 1 Numeric Entry 77 Y ADJUST COUNTER USING ABCDt Example 2 Numeric Entry MAIN MENU From the main screen press to enter the Main Menu The arrow keys can be used to highlight a menu function Press amp MENU to select that function You can also press the corresponding letter as listed below A Advanced Menu MENU Y Wes Press A to enter the Advanced Menu The Advanced Menu VANCED MENU contains Delay modes including Rear Curtain Sync Intervalometer Multipop and SpeedCycler modes ADVANCED B Basic Settings Main Menu Go Advanced Press B to enter the Basic Settings menu It contains Contact time and Beep menu C Counter Menu MENU Press C to enter the Trigger Counter Menu which contains Counter direction and other counter functions Reset Clear Disable and Load D Go A
15. the number of flashes or pops desired Multipop is identical in function to Intervalometer with one exception the multipop interval range has finer resolution from 0 01 to 999 99 seconds in 0 01 1 100 second increments This allows for finer control when setting flash recycle time This mode can be used for cameras or flash units 1 From the main screen press MENU C to enter the numeric entry screen Enter the interval or time gap between triggers Press to proceed to the next screen Enter the count or number of triggers Press to return to the main screen The interval will be displayed and the count will show the number of triggers to be executed 24 Y won SET INTERVAL e USING RBCDt o ODsec Multi pop Mode Set Interval Screen ZA Y Oin EU ES 5 DUNT RES ABCDL TRANSMIT Unit 5 00 second Multi pop Interval 10 trigger Count 6 Press the TEST key or trigger the MultiMAX via Radio to begin Multipop function 36 The following chart is a starting point for calculating how the number of flashes or pops affects F stops Since every flash unit is different use a light meter or other method for more precise calculations Number of Pops Number of Pops Add 2 5 stops Add 1 5 stops Add 2 stops Add 4 stops lt gt Contact is affected by Multipop mode If the contact time is set greater than the Multipop interval the contact time will automat
16. with an optional flash confirmation cable It does this for all Quad Triggering zones on every trigger Confirmation is indicated visually on the main screen and audibly using beep modes Ux For audible confirmation settings see the Beep Menu section Page 28 Radio Radio confirmation is displayed on TRANSMIT units in the A B C D area of the LCD An inverted letter shows an error A normal letter shows confirmation During normal operation the display will show selected and active A B C D zones not inverted Confirmation will occur on every trigger and only in the event of an error will the zone letters invert Optional Flash Confirmation Cable Using the flash confirmation cable the MultiMAX can confirm flash sync for all four zones on every trigger 1 Attach flash confirmation cable to PORT 1 for each MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode 2 Locate the sensor so that it can only see the flash from the correct flash unit 3 Press the TEST button on a MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode to test flash confirmation Correct flash confirmation is displayed on the main screen with a flash icon to the right of each zone performing flash confirmation In the event of an error either no flash was detected or the radio link was incomplete the zone letter and the flash icon will invert A MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode will look for RECEIVE units and confirm the radio link after each of these operations Every trigger Power on or switch fro
17. 025 calculated safety margin 5 Attach the slower camera s motor drive to either PORT on the first unit 6 Attach the faster camera s motor drive to either PORT on the second unit 7 the second unit press A then enter the calculated delay time from Step 4 8 Make sure there is no delay being performed on the first unit 9 Attach the flash to the more consistent smallest lag time variance camera 10 Trigger the system from a TRANSMIT unit s TEST key 09 If using 4 or more units you may find it easier to use the built in Equalize mode See the Equalize section Page 34 for more information 47 Equalization Adjustments With all the variable factors above it may seem that performing the math necessary for equalization is daunting Here are some techniques for fine tuning or adjusting equalization times without using specific math On some 35mm cameras you can gauge timing without using film If your camera allows triggering with the film back open you can verify synchronization visually 1 Perform the steps above to get basic equalization started Point the flash at a blank wall On the camera NOT attached to the flash set the shutter speed to 1 60 Open that camera s back Point the camera at the same wall as the flash As the camera and flash are being triggered look through the shutter plane through the lens at the light from the flash hitting the wall CAUTION MAKE SURE the flash is set to a comfortable
18. EIVE mode 5 Set both MultiMAX units to same channel and Quad Triggering zone a Use AV to set channel default is CH 17 b Use A B C D L to select Quad Triggering zones default is TRANSMIT A B C D L RECEIVE A 6 Turn camera and flash on 7 Press TEST button on MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode and release Confirm remote flash triggers You re all set Use the camera normally 15 Triggering Multiple Flashes With Multiple RECEIVE Units Multiple remote flash units may be triggered in sync with each other 1 Install batteries in each additional MultiMAX unit 2 Use flash cable to connect each additional flash unit s sync terminal to FLASH PORT 2 3 Set power switch on each additional MultiMAX unit to RECEIVE mode 4 Set all MultiMAX units to same channel as TRANSMIT unit You re all set Use the camera normally Connecting MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode to Flash A flash can be connected to a MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode It will trigger in sync with the remote flash units This flash is called the local flash and is usually mounted on a camera bracket 1 Use a flash cable to connect the flash unit s sync terminal to FLASH PORT 2 of the MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode 2 Use the L key to enable or disable the Local flash You re all set Use the camera normally gt Using a local flash this way protects the camera from high voltages See the Specifications section Page 49 for more information 16 STANDA
19. PocketWiZard PocketWizard com Owner s Manual Addendum Including MultiMAX Firmware Upgrade v7 5 for USB enabled FCC CE MultiMAX radios only Special Note for CE MultiMAX Owners MultiMAX Firmware Upgrade v7 5 MultiMAX 7 5 is packed with new features and capabilities for the MultiMAX user including a new Long Range Mode for remote camera triggering which beta testers found particularly useful in arenas and other challenging remote camera applications Additionally you can now move your Custom ID to any PocketWizard frequency for better triggering in crowded shooting environments Multi Zone Receive allows you to select more then one zone for receive useful when sharing lights The new Signal Strength Indicator provides a quick view of local noise levels when the unit is turned on then switches to indicate the strength of the last trigger received When you need to fully understand your shooting environment the Noise Sniffer allows you to see the noise level on every channel This allows you to locate potential interference and switch channels before it becomes a problem There s more and you can read the details for all new features and capabilities on the following pages NEW FEATURES Long Range Mode for remote camera triggering Close Range Mode for working at extremely close distances Toggle the hot shoe on and off Custom ID Move put your CID on a different frequency Multi Zone Receive Signal Strength in
20. RD RADIO OPERATION Transceiver Control The MultiMAX operates as either a transmitter or a receiver To use the MultiMAX as a Transmitter sending device set the power switch to TRANSMIT To use the MultiMAX as a Receiver set the power switch to RECEIVE ES There is a special mode that enables a to automatically switch from RECEIVE to TRANSMIT then back to RECEIVE while triggering a remote camera Read the Relay Mode section Page 39 for more information Channels The MultiMAX is a 32 channel digital radio slave Each MultiMAX channel represents a digital code transmitted on specific PocketWizard radio frequencies This enables many photographers to work in the same area It also enables a photographer to control multiple remote devices cameras flash units etc A MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode will trigger any number of MultiMAX units set for RECEIVE mode set to the same channel Units set to different channels will not interfere with each other From the main screen press the AW keys to change channels Some MultiMAX features are only available on higher channels Refer to the table below for features channels availability Delay including Rear Curtain Sync gt lt Intervalometer Multipop Relay Mode Selective Quad Triggering Confirmation Radio and Flash Fast Mode Delay including Rear Curtain Se X X X X __ X o Confirmation
21. avigation Many functions of the MultiMAX are accessed through easy to navigate menus Press to enter the menu system Menu items are selected by using the A B C D L keys You can also use the AW keys to highlight the menu item you want then press amp MENU to select While within the menus the key performs two functions e menu is displayed pressing will select the highlighted item Use the key to exit the menus at any time e fanumeric entry is displayed pressing amp MENU stores the displayed number memory and proceeds to either the next input screen or the main screen depending on mode B inthe next chapters many of the headings will be followed by and some letter combinations These are quick references for the keys to press to get to that function fast 23 Numeric Entry Several menu items require a number or value to be entered Numeric entry is performed with A B C Dand keys The A B C D keys each select and add 1 to a specific digit as follows A selects and adds 1 to the 4 digit from the right B selects and adds 1 to the 3 digit from the right C selects and adds 1 to the 2 digit from the right D selects and adds 1 to the rightmost digit Once a digit has been selected use the A keys to adjust the number Press and hold A for faster entry Numbers entered in this fashion are saved when the amp MENU key is pressed and will
22. be displayed PocketWizard PocketWizard com Close Range Mode C CLOSE CT Close range mode reduces the transmit power of your MultiMAX when it is in TRANSMIT mode This mode is useful if you have a receiver very close to your transmitter within a few feet Normally it is recommended to keep several feet between a transmitter and a receiver When working with radios very ose together like on a basketball net the transmitter can overwhelm the receiver Close Range Mode helps correct hat situation e Close Range Mode is only set on a transmitter not on a receiver When it is activated on a transmitter will be displayed The receiver must be set to Normal Range Mode RX will be displayed on the receiver This mode is not compatible with Long Range Mode This mode can be used with a MultiMAX Plus Plus flash packs with integrated PocketWizard radios or FlexTT5 as Receiver standard channels only Hot Shoe Menu B HOTSHOE OFF Toggle the hot shoe on or off as needed Press MENU L B Display will show Hotshoe Input Disabled Toggling he hot shoe input to OFF may be useful when mounting he MultiMAX on a cold shoe or when you desire the rigger input to come from PORT 1 and not the hot shoe it is mounted in Press L B again and the display will read Hot shoe Input Enabled PocketWizard PocketWizard com Custom ID Menu C CUSTOM ID This menu only appears if you have
23. cal Y RECEIVER MODE RECEIVE unit Channel 17 Zone A ZA Y etw RECEIVER MODE RECEIVE unit Channel 17 Zone B 19 Classic Channels Classic channels are compatible with early PocketWizard models and the PocketWizard Plus Selective Quad Triggering is only available in channels 17 through 32 In ZA Y CHOY TRANSMITTER MODE channels 1 through 16 the display will show CLASSIC CLASSIC CHANNEL and zones A B do not appear The A key CHANNEL L simply toggles the remote receivers on or off and is displayed on the main screen as R It is not possible to toggle both the remote A key and the local flash L key eet to off at the same time when using a CLASSIC CHANNEL Remote and Local selected Operation on these channels is identical to the function of the LOCAL BOTH REMOTE switch found on PocketWizard Plus and Classic Transmitters L Key On any channel the L key toggles the local flash on or off in a MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode gt See the Connecting MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode to Flash section Page 16 for more information 035 The L key toggles Relay Mode when using a MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode See the Relay Mode section Page 39 for more information 20 True Confirmation Because the MultiMAX is a true transceiver it automatically confirms triggering It can perform this on two levels it confirms the round trip radio signal and can confirm actual flash sync
24. cled It will be in sync with each cycled zone 37 D Fast Mode RECEIVER MENU A D The is designed to sync cameras and flash units at shutters speeds up to 1 250th for most focal plane shutters 35mm and 1 500th for most leaf shutters Some camera and flash combinations are capable of fast sync speeds up to 1 1000th The FAST MODE x MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode is capable of operation at these speeds in Fast Mode Check your camera s and flash unit s manuals RECEIVE unit Fast Mode for the maximum sync speeds allowed by your equipment A MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode in fast mode will show FAST MODE on the display While in this mode Quad Triggering and Relay Mode are not available and the A B C D L keys perform no function on a RECEIVE unit A MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode will trigger RECEIVE units in FAST MODE with any remote zone selected but will perform confirmation only on zone A C Y CH RECEIVER MODE OTHER FEATURES Keypad Lock Hold This function prevents inadvertent key presses Press and hold the X key for 3 seconds to toggle keypad lock on or off All keys are locked except X and TEST While the keypad is locked pressing any of the keys A B C L will display the message KEYPAD LOCKED High Voltage Protection Many electronic cameras can be damaged by high flash sync voltage Refer to your camera s manual for more information The p
25. ctor in camera equalization consistency is If a slow camera has extremely consistent lag times it will be a better equalization candidate than a faster but inconsistent camera The reason why it is important to know the approximate fastest lag time for a camera especially an inconsistent one is to calculate margin of error discussed later in this section The amount of drift or lag time inconsistency determines the highest shutter speed at which a camera will reliably equalize The following table should be used as a starting point for testing purposes only The numbers in this table are based on a 1 1000th or faster flash duration Probable maximum safe lag Probable maximum safe lag time variation for average focal time variation for average leaf plane 35mm camera shutter camera F 8 0 lt gt Leaf shutters have different shutter blade travel times depending on aperture A wider aperture takes longer and reduces the amount of variance allowed A smaller aperture takes less time thereby increasing the allowable variance A leaf shutter set to F 4 0 for example may reduce the variance to the same as a focal plane camera 0 0303 lt 0 0313 44 lt gt If your camera s maximum sync speed is slower than the number listed then you must use the slower sync speed Camera equalization does not give a camera faster sync speeds than the camera is designed to handle For all shutters it can be assumed that a camera with faster ext
26. d Counter Screen Y Use amp C C as an easy to remember quick key combination for fast counter reset D Disable MENU C D Counter is disabled and is not displayed on the main screen While disabled the counter does not count 30 ADVANCED MENU Press to enter the Advanced Menu This menu contains the advanced functions of the MultiMAX LAY AEH Precision timing and sequencing operations are available in this menu TERYALOMETER Ux Press amp MENU D to cancel advanced functions and return to normal mode See the section on D Go Advanced and D Go Normal Page 25 A Delay Menu TRANSMITTER MENU A A Enters the delay menu for MultiMAX units set for TRANSMIT mode RECEIVE unit Advanced Menu Ezi Y wen R DELRY Rel REP OME TER Ux Delay menus with the exception of Rear Curtain C MULTI require numeric entry See the Numeric Entry D SPEEDCYCLER section Page 24 TRANSMIT unit delay screens numeric entry or rear curtain Advanced Menu instantly active and triggering can occur while these screens are displayed A value displayed on these screens Y nes will be used immediately on trigger This is useful for fine DELAY USING tuning a delay or adjusting rear curtain sync A RENOTES PORTZ 37 The maximum delay is 9 9999 seconds For longer CURTAIN delays see the Intervalometer section Page 35 A Remotes PORT 2 MENU A A bey Enter
27. d contact is held for the set contact time 33 C Equalize AA C Equalize Mode is a specialized delay mode for synchronizing multiple cameras to one flash This mode is designed to work with shutter speeds up to 1 125 on some cameras but there are many factors that could affect operation This is the only place where Lag Times can be measured 035 Read the Camera Equalization section Page 42 before continuing Equalize mode is designed to be used with at least 3 MultiMAX units set in RECEIVE mode Two or more MultiMAX units will be attached to cameras and one MultiMAX will be attached to a flash unit A MultiMAX or other PocketWizard TRANSMITTER will be used to trigger the system 1 Place a MultiMAX set to RECEIVE mode on the camera hot shoe or attach cable from camera s PC terminal to PORT 1 2 Attach cable from PORT 2 to camera s motor drive If available use a Pre Trigger cable more information in the Camera Equalization section 3 If the Equalize Screen is not displayed then press C from the main screen to enter Equalize Mode This enters the numeric entry screen and 0 1500 seconds are displayed 4 Press the TEST key The camera should trigger and a lag time camera triggering delay will be measured and displayed Press TEST every few seconds for 5 to 15 exposures until you see the fastest lag time lowest number displayed for the camera 5 Press the amp MENU key to return to the
28. dicator Menu indicator for longer menus Noise Sniffer Radio Relay Repeater Mode PocketWizard PocketWizard com Range Menu A RANGE MODE Long Range Mode A LONG LT LR Long range mode increases the usable distance up to double between two MultiMAX radios This new feature is ideal for photographers shooting sports or wildlife or anyone who simply needs long range remote camera capability This mode must be activated on all radios that are expected to work together When it is activated on a transmitter will be displayed When it is activated on a receiver LR will be displayed This mode is designed primarily for remote camera triggering It can also be used for remote flash triggering at shutter speeds up to 1 125 This mode cannot be used with the Plus Sekonic meters or flash packs with a PocketWizard radio built in Engaging Long Range Mode will automatically adjust default contact time to 0 12 seconds NOTE Long Range Mode is only for MultiMAX channels 17 through 32 Trigger confirmation is not available in Long Range Mode Normal Range Mode B NORMAL TX RX Normal mode sets your MultiMAX to work at standard distances on regular channels This is the default operation for your MultiMAX This mode must be activated on all radios that are expected to work together When it is activated on a transmitter will be displayed When it is activated on a receiver RX will
29. dvanced MENU gx D Go N ASADVANCED Go Normal mENU BIBASIC SETTINGS Press D to toggle between the last Advanced mode used ual and Normal mode This function enables a quick return to standard or normal Main Menu operation from an advanced function The settings of the Go Normal advanced function are saved Y Go Normal is a quick way to get to standard radio slave operation after using advanced functions and menus Use this function to turn off an advanced mode and use the MultiMAX as a radio slave only 25 BASIC SETTINGS Press amp MENU B to enter the Basic Settings menu Press EMEN Y wow the corresponding letter for the setting you wish to adjust TIME EP MENU A Contact Time MENU B A Contact time is the length of time that CAMERA PORT 1 or FLASH PORT 2 outputs remain contacted The default Contact Time of 0 08 is enough to trigger most camera motor drives and flashes Many photographers will never need to adjust this number Basic Settings Menu lt gt Contact is how long the internal switch is held 1 CH n closed For example if the contact time is set to 3 seconds and a camera motor drive is attached to a TINE MultiMAX when the MultiMAX triggers the camera it will hold the contact for 3 seconds This is identical to 0 12 pressing and holding the 5 trigger button for 3 seconds The contact
30. e following safety warnings Operating temperature above 15 C 5 F and below 50 C 120 F Storage temperature without batteries above 30 C 22 F and below 85 C 185 F Remove batteries during storage Battery Requirements IEC LR6 AA Size Do not remove instrument covers during operation Do not operate the device in the presence of flammable gases or fumes Operation of any electrical instrument in such an environment constitutes a definite safety hazard There are no user serviceable parts inside the MultiMAX Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification of the instrument Refer servicing only to qualified and authorized personnel Red LED s are used for dim light application and do not indicate a hazardous status The MultiMAX is an accessory device for cameras and flashes Do not use this product in a manner not specified in documentation Battery Information A CAUTION Turn OFF your equipment PocketWizard units electronic flash units cameras etc before making connections or changing batteries Install 2 fresh AA IEC LR6 batteries into the MultiMAX Make sure to note proper polarity Alkaline batteries are recommended Rechargeable batteries will also work though operation time may be reduced A WARNING To avoid battery leakage follow these guidelines Always remove the batteries when the unit is not in use for extended periods of time or during shipping or
31. e on the channel but it is only happening sporadically If possible use another channel or move away from the interference source If SLOW only shows occasional spikes you may be fine If the unit s LED blinks in any manner other than the normal powered on blink once every two seconds then the source of the noise is another PocketWizard on your frequency A MultiMAX mounted near the ground within a few feet may display a low noise reading and still have poor performance This is because the ground absorbs radio energy It absorbs the signal from your PocketWizards so performance worsens in general It also absorbs the ambient RF noise so the MultiMAX Noise Sniffer shows less noise present In this situation a small amount of RF noise might have a much more extreme effect on reception reliability as one problem exacerbates the other PocketWizard PocketWizard com Radio Relay Repeater Mode Receive Only This mode lets you deploy another MultiMAX to increase your range It receives and transmits on the same channel To activate Radio Relay Repeater set the MultiMAX to RECEIVE on your channel of choice then press the L key twice You should now see RPT on the display Pressing 1 toggles between these modes RLY Standard Camera Relay It also displays the channel to be used when Transmitting This is set in TRANSMIT mode Read more about Relay Mode in your MultiMAX manual RPT Radio Relay Repea
32. ernal flash sync speeds X sync will have faster shutter travel than cameras with slower X sync speeds Faster shutter travel times increase the allowable variance The table above is based on the following shutter travel times Focal Plane 35mm 1 1000 0 0010 to open 1 1000 to close Leaf shutter at f 8 0 1 2000 0 0005 to open 1 2000 to close If a flash is generating light while the shutter is moving then you will see the shutter in the exposure for focal plane shutters You will see a loss in F stop exposure using a leaf shutter if the flash is generating light as the shutter aperture opens or closes A variable flash duration will also affect these calculations A slow flash is visible for longer and more likely to affect exposure while the shutter is in motion A short flash duration reduces the likelihood of timing variances affecting the exposure It is difficult to measure a shutter s travel time or a flash units duration and it usually requires extremely expensive test equipment Some electronic flash manufacturers print their flash durations in their manual The best method for understanding your equipment s equalization capabilities is to shoot many test exposures over a range of settings Recommend Equipment for the best results Consistent lag time cameras Cameras with fast sync speeds Electronic flash equipment with short flash duration 45 One Unit Equalization To equalize two cameras and one flash
33. function properly PocketWizard PocketWizard com PocketWizard Utility Your MultiMAX has a USB port which allows it to be easily updated to the latest firmware using the PocketWizard Utility The PocketWizard Utility can be downloaded on our website at http www PocketWizard com support downloads To connect your USB enabled MultiMAX to your computer please follow these steps 1 Turn off the MultiMAX radio and make sure you have fresh batteries installed 2 Press and hold the backlight key located between MENU and TEST as you turn the MultiMAX on to TRANSMIT 3 Note that the STATUS LED blinks steadily and the LCD remains blank This confirms the radio is in USB mode 4 Make sure the PocketWizard Utility is running on your computer and no other PocketWizard radios are connected to it 5 Connect your MultiMAX radio to your computer using a standard Mini B USB cable and note that your MultiMAX radio appears in the PocketWizard Utility 6 To update your radio click Check For Updates in the Maintenance Tab Most updates require a full factory reset see the RESET section on Page 29 in your MultiMAX Owner s Manual Be sure to write down any special settings like Contact Time etc before you update your radio Consider updating all the USB enabled MultiMAX radios in your system to the same firmware Older MultiMAX radios that do not have a USB port will continue to work as part of your MultiMAX system The older
34. he unit will continue to function normally until the batteries are nearly exhausted The MultiMAX voltage regulation is very efficient There is only a small benefit when using Lithium batteries Lithium batteries are designed for the quick burst high current draw found in cameras and portable flash devices Expect only a 10 20 longer battery life approximate over Alkaline batteries when using Lithium batteries MOUNTING Mount a remote MultiMAX using any of the included methods See Sustaining High Performance page 53 for more mounting information VELCRO For attaching to flashes brackets For tripods mounting arms isolation bars brackets etc cameras etc Shoe Mount For hanging from a light stand flash handle tripod knob belt etc For mounting on a bracket shoe cold or dead shoe etc 14 QUICK SETUP BASIC RADIO SLAVE OPERATION Basic Setup for Remote Flash A Turn off all equipment before installing batteries or making connections 1 Install 2 AA batteries in each MultiMAX 2 Connect camera to first MultiMAX a Slide unit into camera hot shoe pr b Use sync cable to connect camera s PC terminal to CAMERA PORT 1 3 Connect flash to second MultiMAX a Use flash cable to connect flash unit s sync terminal to FLASH PORT 2 4 Turn both MultiMAX units on a Set power switch on MultiMAX attached to camera to TRANSMIT mode b Set power switch on MultiMAX attached to flash to REC
35. ically be set to interval time MINUS 0 01 seconds This means that a remote camera or flash will remain triggered with only a 1 100 second release between contacts This short released time may not be long enough to re trigger some cameras or flash units If this is the case set the contact time lower D SpeedCycler TRANSMITTER MENU A D Enables SpeedCycler mode Use this mode to rapidly cycle P through remote flash units and trigger faster than a single en flash can recycle by using multiple flash units It can also be used for triggering remote cameras sequentially 4 This mode only works with Quad Triggering channels 17 B C D L and higher and two or more MAX or MultiMAX units set for RECEIVE mode TRANSMIT unit 1 From the main screen press D to SpeedCycler Mode enable SpeedCycler mode on a MultiMAX set for A triggered with flash TRANSMIT mode confirmation 2 Enable two or more remote zones B next zone to be triggered 3 Set each MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode to a different zone 4 Trigger the MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode The first trigger will fire the first zone selected the second trigger will fire the next zone selected The display indicates the next zone to trigger with an arrow Only the zone just triggered will display proper confirmation lt gt If Lis selected then PORT 2 on the set for TRANSMIT mode will trigger every time and is not cy
36. ill be immediately executed upon trigger using the last interval set 4 Intervalometer can be interrupted by pressing and holding the MENU key 35 L For delays longer than 9 9999 seconds maximum available in delay modes use Intervalometer or Multipop mode Set the interval to the desired delay Set the count to 1 Attach your camera to PORT 1 and trigger the MultiMAX The camera will trigger after the set interval lt gt Contact is affected by Intervalometer mode If you set an interval that is LESS than the contact time the contact time becomes the interval minus 0 3 seconds If you set an interval that is GREATER than the contact time the contact time is simply performed as entered 057 When using Intervalometer and Relay Mode together a MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode will switch to Transmit mode and send a Radio trigger after the last interval See the Relay Mode section Page 39 for more information Ux When using Intervalometer or Multipop modes exclusively battery life can be 200 300 hours See the Reset to Default Factory Settings section Page 52 for more information C Multipop MENU A C Enters the Multipop interval setting screen This mode is for triggering a flash multiple times from one trigger It can be used during one long exposure to increase depth of field or for special effect sequencing The interval setting is normally used to set a safe flash recycling time while the count is set to
37. in most delay modes Knowing your camera s lag time is critical for camera equalization but can also be useful in special effects industrial commercial or other photography that requires critical trigger timing Using the information above set up your camera for best equalization performance Attach a MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode to the camera as follows 1 Place a MultiMAX in the camera s hot shoe or attach a cable from the camera s PC terminal to PORT 1 Attach the cable from PORT 2 to the camera s motor drive If available use a Pre Release cable Press A A C for a standard delay mode where lag times can be measured 4 The screen should display Set Delay Using A B C D L AY and show a numeric value Press TEST The unit will trigger the camera and time the delay until a sync pulse is sensed from the hot shoe or lens 5 Press TEST every few seconds to find the fastest and slowest lag times for the camera Usually the first press of TEST will yield a very different number from later measurements Ignore the first reading 5 to 15 lag time measurements after the first one should yield consistent results and give a gauge of the fastest and slowest times 6 Using steps 1 through 5 measure and record the fastest and slowest lag times for each camera you wish to equalize Subtract the fastest from the slowest and record this number as the camera s lag time variation 43 Y Speed is not the most important fa
38. inus the double beep when the Counter hits zero in Count Beep Menu Down Multipop or Intervalometer modes Unit will beep when triggered by TEST button PORT 1 a Radio Trigger or the Hot Shoe per the table C Beep on Zero Error MENU B The MultiMAX unit will not beep on normal triggering The MultiMAX will beep only when the counter reaches zero and on confirmation errors in the following manner Single Long Beep Indicates Trigger Confirmation error or remote MultiMAX unit set for RECEIVE mode has reached zero count Double Long Beep Indicates MultiMAX has reached zero count Single Short Beep Any Key is pressed except TEST gt gt A MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode set Beep on Zero Error or set Beep on All will indicate a confirmation error if the unit is also set to count down and the counter reaches zero See the Counter section Page 30 for more information D Beep Disable 5 MENU B D Turns off all beep functions Unit will not beep 28 C LCD Contrast Adjustment MENU Enters the LCD Contrast Adjustment screen Use A V to adjust the contrast Contrast can be affected by temperature Setting the contrast to a middle setting is recommended for most situations D RESET MENU B D Resets the unit to factory defaults CLEAR RESET is performed as if you held C on power up see Page 52 for more information on Factory Defaults You will be asked to P
39. le of firing frames per second in continuous motor drive then a contact time of 1 second will always result in this remote camera triggering for 3 exposures Example of Bulb Shutter Held Open Set the contact time for the desired bulb exposure time and set the camera to bulb or B mode When triggered the shutter will remain open for the contact time For triggering a remote flash contact time can act as a flash recycle lockout e Example of Flash Recycle Lockout To guarantee that a flash cannot be triggered faster then its recycle time set the contact time to be just longer than the recycle time Ux This method of flash recycle lockout does not work with all flash systems as some will not recycle while the sync contact is held See Recycle Lockout in the Applications of Advanced Functions section Page 41 for another recycle lockout method ES If you are using Intervalometer or Multipop modes read these sections Page 36 and Page 37 for information on these modes and how they interact with Contact Time 27 Beep Menu MENU B This menu controls the beep functions of a MultiMAX Press the corresponding letter to set the desired function of the built in speaker Beep on All MENU B A MultiMAX will beep on all triggering confirmation errors and zero counts as indicated below as well as on any key pressed Beep on Trigger MENU B B B Beep on Trigger performs the same beeps as Beep On All m
40. level for your eyes Note the shape of the light burst If it is a perfect bright circle then the camera is in sync If the circle is dark or has a hard line running along one edge then the camera is not in sync The hard line is the shutter in motion while the flash is still generating light Adjust the shutter speed up or down until you see a perfect circle oon fF oN The delay time setting screen is instantly active While in numeric entry mode you can adjust the delay up or down and the displayed value will be executed on the next trigger Using the through the back method above or by shooting film Polaroid or digital you can adjust the delay and view the results to more suit your specific camera s timings The mathematical formulas used thus far are designed for equalizing at 1 125 The final offset number 0 0025 for example may need to be adjusted when attempting to equalize at faster shutter speeds or slower ones with wide lag variation cameras The offset number tries to move the flash burst to the middle of the exposure to compensate for drifting lag time Experiment with different offsets to fine tune your shutter speed flash duration and camera timing combinations Too long or short of an offset and you limit a camera s ability to get the exposure if the lag drifts even by a small amount t Visit www pocketwizard com for more information on camera specific equalization techniques As more information become
41. ll US frequency PocketWizard products see Page 7 Protects cameras from high sync voltage Customizable audible beep settings Weighs less than 5 5 ounces with batteries USB port for future upgrades Special Features Transceiver Technology True Confirmation Quad Triggering Confirmation on all four zones Flash Confirmation with Optional Cable on all four zones Trigger Time Controller Software Rear Curtain Sync Precision Delays Intervalometer Multipop Lag Time Measurement Multiple Camera Equalization SpeedCycler Relay Mode MULTIMAX PART REFERENCE Battery Door Latch Flexible Antenna Status Light PORT 2 Output PORT 1 Input Output Lanyard Loop PJBZIMIO 204H XM LCD Liquid Crystal Display JOAIOG2SUPI USB Port Power TRANSMIT RECEIVE Battery Mode Switch Door Zone Menu Numeric Entry Keys n lS ACC Port a LA Channel Numeric Entry UP DOWN Keys for AC power MENU Key information TEST Button Back Light Key Lock Hot Shoe Input 10 LCD INFORMATION Frequency Locked Channel Battery Level Beep Mode Primary Display Area for Main Screen Menus Numeric Entry etc Y Y TRANSMITTER MODE RECEIVER MIDE TRANSMITTER RECEIVER Default Power On Screen Default Power On Screen ANCED MEUS sit UNTER MENU ADVANCED MAIN MENU Default Screen 11 CONTROLS Power Switch
42. long distance travel Never mix old and new batteries Always use a fresh pair of matched batteries Always change batteries promptly at the first indication of low battery operation Do not use or leave the unit in extreme temperature or humidity situations See Technical Information for normal operating and storage temperatures lt gt Erratic unit behavior or malfunction may occur if batteries are inserted while the power switch is set to either RECEIVE or TRANSMIT Always make sure the power switch is set to OFF before changing or inserting batteries 13 Battery Life The MultiMAX displays remaining battery life with a 3 segment battery icon in the upper left corner of the LCD 3 segments displayed batteries are fresh new uaa 2 segments displayed batteries are good aaj 1 segment displayed replace batteries soon 0 segments displayed install fresh new batteries immediately With one set of standard Alkaline batteries the MultiMAX will operate for approximately 60 hours When using Intervalometer or Multipop modes exclusively battery life can be 200 300 hours This time may vary depending on temperature battery type and the quality of batteries used Extensive use of back light speaker or extended trigger contact times will consume the batteries at a faster rate The MultiMAX continually regulates the battery power which gives excellent performance throughout the life of the batteries T
43. m RECEIVE to TRANSMIT Channel change Zone change including L Exiting the menu system 21 s Y eus TRANSMITTER as n Failed Radio and Flash Y TRANSMITTER MODE 4 Failed Radio Confirmed Radio Failed Flash Local does not Confirm Confirmed Radio Confirmed Radio and Flash lt gt Confirmation can only be performed using MultiMAX units on channels 17 and higher PocketWizard Plus Classic and the original MAX do not perform confirmation True Confirmation is designed to work with one MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode per zone Multiple RECEIVE units set to the same channel and zone will not individually confirm and may cause incorrect confirmation errors If multiple MultiMAX units set for RECEIVE mode on the same channel and zone are a mix of flash and non flash confirmation units then accurate flash confirmation will not be reported The following table shows how confirmation works in different modes MultiMAX Mode Radio and Flash Confirmation A RECEIVE unit using Selective Quad Triggering Provides normal radio and or flash confirmation A RECEIVE unit set to a Delay mode Will not provide confirmation A RECEIVE unit set to FAST MODE Confirms on zone A only A RECEIVE unit set to Intervalometer or Multipop Provides radio confirmation before the first interval only Note Older MAX and MultiMAX units set to FAST MODE will not confirm on any zones MENU SYSTEM N
44. main screen A delay value will be displayed This number is a calculated number and will differ from the lag time you saw on the previous screen 6 Repeat steps 1 through 5 for each camera to be equalized Use one MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode per camera 7 Attach a MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode to a flash unit 8 From the main screen press A A C When the numeric entry screen appears with 0 1500 displayed simply press amp MENU to return to the main screen Do not adjust the number and do NOT press TEST The main screen will show a delay of 0 1500 9 Press TEST on any PocketWizard Transmitter to trigger this equalized system 34 Intervalometer Time Lapse Photography MENU A Enters the Intervalometer interval setting screen Intervalometer can be used to trigger a flash or a camera at a set interval time gap between triggers for a set number of triggers The interval time is set in HH MM SS format Y wir SET INTERVAL 2 USING ABCD t Hours Minutes Seconds up to a maximum of 99 59 59 100 SEC While Intervalometer is running it will display a count down time until the next trigger on the main screen Also Intervalometer Mode TRIG will be displayed on the main screen in inverse video Set Interval Screen as the PORTs are being triggered 1 From the main screen press MENU B to enter the numeric entry screen Enter the interval or time gap between triggers Press to pr
45. ncrease may decrease lag time as the camera s internal lubricants are warmed and flow more freely or vice versa Horizontal vs vertical orientation as a camera is moved through these orientations various mechanisms especially shutters in focal plane cameras will be affected by gravity making them move differently thus affecting lag time In general do not change a camera s orientation during equalization 42 Multiple mechanical systems cameras that have many changeable mechanically interacting parts film backs motor drives lens shutters are likely to have different lag times with different hardware combinations A leaf shutter is in the lens so changing lenses on a leaf shutter camera will change lag time In some medium format cameras having the film back loaded versus unloaded can make a significant difference For consistent results always use the same components lens body and film back combination for example each time Auto focus and exposure computers some auto focus and exposure systems will introduce widely varying lag times as lens travel and exposure calculations can take unpredictable amounts of time An electronic camera set to full manual generally provides the most consistent lag times Lag Time Measurement A A C L RECEIVE units only The first step to camera synchronization or equalization is measuring a camera s lag time triggering delay The MultiMAX can measure a camera s lag time
46. nits can be damaged if they are triggered too quickly or before they are fully recharged This may cause the flash to overheat Use Multipop Mode to protect the flash by setting a safe recycle lockout time Follow the steps below 1 On a MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode press A C 2 Enter the desired recycle lockout time and press 3 Enter a count of 1 and press MENU 4 Attach remote flash to PORT 2 Example If the lockout time you entered was 3 seconds then the remote flash could not be triggered more than once every 3 seconds 41 Camera Equalization Equalization or synchronizing multiple cameras to the same flash requires precision timing Even though we perceive camera triggering activity as instantaneous it is not Even the flash which appears to provide light only for an instant has a time duration flash duration that needs to be factored into synchronization calculations Every camera has a delay from the time it is triggered until the shutter is fully open The trigger can originate from either the camera s trigger button or via the motor drive port This delay is called lag time and it can be different from camera to camera and may even vary between two cameras of the exact same model If two cameras are triggered at exactly the same time their shutters will be open at different moments If one camera is attached to flash the other camera s shutter will probably not be open at the right moment
47. nufactured for every frequency Products manufactured for one world frequency are NOT compatible with products from another Make sure to order products that are compatible with the frequency you already own or are legal for use in your world region 18 Selective Quad Triggering keys This powerful feature is used to individually control up to 4 sets of MultiMAX units set for RECEIVE mode on the same channel Each keypad letter A B C D refers to an individual zone Each zone can be independently selected or deselected from a MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode Follow the steps below to test Quad Triggering 1 Set one MultiMAX to TRANSMIT mode 2 Set up to 4 MultiMAX units to RECEIVE mode same channel as TRANSMIT unit 3 Using the A D L keys set each RECEIVE unit to a different zone 4 On the TRANSMIT unit use the A B D L keys to select which zones will trigger The zone is selected when the letter is displayed on the LCD screen The zone is deselected when a dot appears where the letter would be displayed 5 Press the TEST key on the MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode unit to trigger the selected zones Any number of MultiMAX units set for RECEIVE mode may be set to the same channel and zone and will trigger simultaneously Selective Quad Triggering is only available on channels 17 and higher ex TRANSMITTER MODE L AB TRANSMIT unit Channel 17 Zones A B and Lo
48. number of causes but the solution is usually the same move the unit a few inches or feet away from the problem area PocketWizard PocketWizard com For remote finish line cameras or any remote camera where a long motor drive burst is desired consider the following e Set a long contact time for example 1 50 seconds on the remote receiving unit If range is an issue or remote operation is intermittent this will help If any single trigger is received a long burst is guaranteed Contact time is set by pressing B A Trying to get a remote camera to trigger as fast as the master camera in your hands by having the transmitting PocketWizard connected to the shoe or PC of the master may be problematic Cameras are not designed to be triggered like a high speed hot shoe flash for example five very short triggers in under one second This may confuse the remote camera cause it to not trigger or cause it to trigger sporadically Instead of relying on the shoe trigger use either A button cable BT1 or BT3 connected to PORT 1 of the transmitting unit Tape this button to the grip of the master camera P cable pre release pre trigger cable connected from the motor drive of the camera in your hands to PORT 1 of the transmitting MultiMAX This causes the transmitting unit to be triggered as you press all the way down on your camera s shutter release You must use a cable and it must be set to OFF for this to
49. o have complete wireless triggering 1 Set a MultiMAX to TRANSMIT mode and select the channel and zones for the remote flash units 2 Set the same MultiMAX to RECEIVE mode and select the channel and zone for the remote camera Use a different channel then the remote flash units 3 Press L to toggle Relay Mode on The screen will display RLY XX where XX is the TRANSMIT channel to be used for relay 4 Connect the camera s PC terminal to PORT 1 or attach the MultiMAX to the camera s hot shoe 5 Connect the camera s motor drive to PORT 2 6 Trigger the MultiMAX via radio trigger The camera s motor drive will trigger and the MultiMAX display will change to TRANSMIT mode The MultiMAX will wait 1 5 seconds for a trigger from the camera If it gets a trigger in that time it will trigger the remote flash units and return to RECEIVE mode If it does not get a trigger in that time it will return to RECEIVE mode without triggering the remote units RECEIVE unit in Relay Mode Receives Channel 22 Zone A Transmits Channel 20 Software Version Display Hold on power up To check the software version of the MultiMAX without resetting the unit to factory defaults perform the following 1 Set power switch to OFF 2 Press and hold A key 3 Continue to hold A and set the power switch to either RECEIVE or TRANSMIT 4 Release A key when software version appears 5 Use unit normally 035 See the Reset to Default Factory Settings sec
50. oceed to the next screen Enter the count or number of triggers Press MENU to return to the main screen The interval will be displayed and the count will show the number of triggers to be executed 6 Press TEST or trigger MultiMAX via Radio to begin intervalometer function gt Intervalometer has two modes of operation depending on Y Vertu which PORT is used INTERVAL 420 PORT 1 first trigger takes place AFTER first interval COUNTY 36 PORT 2 first trigger takes place BEFORE first interval L lt gt A MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode does not send interval radio triggers The MultiMAX set for iM TRANSMIT mode will send out a single radio trigger 36 trigger Count pulse at the beginning of the first interval only It will continue to trigger devices attached to its PORTS but it will not send a radio trigger for any more intervals For remote interval operation use interval mode on a RECEIVE unit Each MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode may have a unique interval setting or can be used with equal settings Interval and count entry screens are instantly active The Set Interval and Adjust Counter screens are instantly active While the Set Interval screen is displayed a change of interval will be immediately executed upon trigger either from the TEST key or Radio trigger The count used will be the last count set If the Adjust Counter screen is displayed a change of count w
51. ontrol s ehe 17 17 ace eee eet e e e ERR ee eae eredi 18 Selective Quad Triggering 5 19 Classic Ghanriels o REI rre hem red 20 ROY soie REC REN ERA ERR REN EU RE REN 20 True Confirmation 21 vives meee eee n e t eh seas 21 Optional Flash Confirmation Cable 21 Menu tulere 23 TT 23 Numeric RIO RERO 24 Main eR HU ORE Rb e HERR ee s 25 Advanced Men s is Rer OU RES REG A EG 25 B Basic Settings cic epe p e RTL we Ru aeu 25 G COUNTER aos ea ect t edi Ca den 25 D Go inier eaen EEE EE EEE E E 25 se e er ERR P EE 25 Ran OR EE ates qo RR 26 Contact aec oet bri 26 B MENU scu tor tion ev ee eee cepe e Ya 28 Beep On All iuis ade pea RN pn 28 Beep ori MOOC essem es tse aes ste re sext oos seno es 28 D eb OC cae edes 28 C LCD Contrast 29 un ICON EY PT ATE ER hae eae eke 29 Counter Men
52. ormation on this warranty and to register your product please go to www PocketWizard com support US Patent 5 359 375 and Patents Pending LPF657 v1 0 PocketWizard com PocketWiZard Owner s Manual PocketWizard gt MutiMAX mus rae o0 PocketWiZard www PocketWizard com Congratulations onthe purchase of your new PocketWizard MultiMAX digital radio triggering system The PocketWizard MultiMAX is a microprocessor based radio slave system that uses advanced digital signaling to increase triggering range reliability and reject radio noise from other sources Since is utilizes Transceiver technology itis both a transmitter and a receiver all in one It is the most innovative and advanced wireless solution in the photographic industry As a stand alone unit the MultiMAX offers precision special effects functions not available in any wireless triggering device It incorporates integrated Trigger Time Control software True Trigger Confirmation and Selective Quad Triggering all of which offer solutions to photographic challenges that hinder today s photographer s creativity Unparalleled in features and performance the PocketWizard MultiMAX is more than just a radio slave Welcome to Digital Wireless Freedom Manufactured in the United States of America by LPA Design 41 IDX Drive Suite 265 South Burlington VT 05403 TABLE OF CONTENTS The FCG Wants You
53. ormula Slower Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS Faster Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS 0 0030 calculated safety margin b If the fast camera is more consistent use this formula Slower Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS Faster Camera s Fastest Lag Time PLUS 0 0020 calculated safety margin 5 On the RECEIVE unit press MENU A A Enter the time from Step 4 6 Attach the slower camera s motor drive to PORT 2 on the TRANSMIT unit Do not leave the MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode in the hot shoe or have the PC terminal attached to PORT 1 as this may cause a looping or lock up situation 7 Ntach the faster camera s motor drive to either PORT on the RECEIVE unit 8 Attach the flash to the more consistent smallest lag time variance camera 9 Trigger the system from the TRANSMIT unit s TEST key 46 If using both MultiMAX units as RECEIVE units being triggered by any PocketWizard Transmitter follow these steps 1 Set both units to RECEIVE mode 2 Measure lag times of cameras as previously described and record the fastest lag for each 3 Determine which camera is faster and which is slower overall 4 Determine the delay time a If the slow camera is more consistent use this formula i Slower Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS Faster Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS 0 0025 calculated safety margin b If the fast camera is more consistent use this formula i Slower Camera s Fastest Lag Time MINUS Faster Camera s Fastest Lag Time PLUS 0 0
54. r 3 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or television technician for help This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and also with RSS 210 of Industry Canada Operation is subject to the following two conditions 1 This device may not cause harmful interference and 2 this device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation Transceiver FCC ID Number KDS PW2 101 Transceiver Canada IC 2170A PW101 ICONS USED IN THIS MANUAL lt gt Read the information following this icon It shows important notes about the subject being discussed 0 Follow this icon for more detailed information on the subject in another section L Find valuable tips and techniques with this icon A Warning or caution Refer to www pocketwizard com for updated information FEATURES Communication Technology Full Digital Radio Communication Microprocessor controlled 32 digitally coded channels Complex 16 or 24 bit coded signal Selective Quad Triggering Basic Features Built in hot shoe 1 4 20 female mounting thread Built In AC adapter jack see Page 49 for ordering information Illuminated LCD panel Illuminated soft touch keypad 60 Hours battery life depending on usage Sync speeds up to 1 250 with focal plane shutter 1 500 with leaf shutter Fast Mode syncs up to 1 1000 with compatible cameras and flashes Adjustable contact closure time Compatible with a
55. rd com Signal Strength Indicator Receive Only The Signal Indicator antenna level bars like on a cell phone now performs two functions 1 Noise Meter If your radio has NOT been triggered the Signal Indicator will show steady noise in the area More bars Good radio environment less noise If your Signal Indicator shows fewer bars then there is a strong source of constant interference in the area The Signal Indicator will not show transient or brief interference like from another PocketWizard user Noise Sniffer SLOW scan might help there 2 If your radio has been triggered the Signal Indicator shows the strength of the last trigger received More bars clear signal Noise Sniffer L NOISE SNIFFER The Noise Sniffer is a MultiMAX tool for troubleshooting Yun RF issues It can show the relative radio noise for the MENU E MultiMAX channel and frequency displayed To CICONTRAST E access the Noise Sniffer set the MultiMAX to RECEIVE then press amp MENU In Noise Sniffer mode use the arrow keys to cycle through the channels If you have a Custom ID it will use the correct frequency for your Custom ID channel Place the MultiMAX in a location you intend to use or walk around with the MultiMAX to help pinpoint noise sources Move the antenna closer to cable runs and metal structures to see if they are sources of RF noise on your channel 127 2 maximum noise the MultiMAX can sense Lower is better
56. rd com or your local photography dealer A This US frequency MultiMAX is compatible with all US frequency PocketWizard products Itis not frequency compatible with CE or JAPAN PocketWizard products Verify frequency compatibility before purchasing Some products are not manufactured on every frequency Always operate within local radio regulations THE FCC WANTS YOU TO KNOW WARNING Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user s authority to operate the equipment NOTE This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions may cause harmful interference to radio communications However there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures 1 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna 2 Increase the separation between the equipment and the receive
57. ress C to confirm Pressing any other key except TEST will cancel the reset operation 29 COUNTER MENU Press C enter the Counter Menu This menu controls the counter functions of the MultiMAX The counter can show the total number of triggers Count is incremented on every trigger from any source PORT 1 TEST button Hot Shoe or Radio Trigger A Count Up Reset MENU Count is set to COUNT UP example 0 1 2 3 and the counter is reset to 0 The main screen will display COUNT 0 B Count Down Reset C B Count direction is set to DOWN example 10 9 8 7 you are prompted to enter a count then the counter is reset The main screen will display COUNT R XXXX L The count down function could be used to indicate the number of remaining frames for a remote camera C Clear Reset 45 MENU C Count direction is not changed Counter is reset to 0 if count direction is set to up or the counter is reset to the load value if count direction is set to down If the counter is disabled then this function will enable the counter using the last count direction set The Counter is cleared and reset in this fashion when the unit is powered down Ezi Y CH COUNT RESET COUNT RESET B C D DISRBLE Counter Menu TRANSMITTER MODE COUNT 2 NES TRANSMIT unit set to Count Up Y CH ADJUST oe USING AB Loa
58. ring Channel PocketWizard PocketWizard com When the display says SAME AS CHAN 21 and the frequency displayed is 348500 that means that your Custom ID will use the same frequency that is in use on standard Channel 21 Photographers using that channel can t trigger you and you can t trigger them but if you try to trigger at the exact same time then you may interfere with each other and cause a loss of triggers View Custom ID B VIEW CUSTOM ID Displays a list of your installed Custom IDs and what 3 ees frequency they are using Multi Zone Receive Receive Only The MultiMAX now allows you to select more than one Zone for receive You can receive on any combination of Zones If you select A and B for example any trigger on either A or B will trigger the radio This feature allows another avenue of creative control for zones EXAMPLE Two photographers are working the same venue Each has their own portable flash system that they move with them and they share area flashes that light the ceiling One photographer could use Zone A for his nearby flashes while the other photographer uses Zone B The receiver triggering the area flashes could be set to A amp B Menu Indicator If a menu in the MultiMAX contains more than four items there is a now an indicator that shows there are more choices above or below the current list Just use the arrow keys to see the other menu items PocketWizard PocketWiza
59. rotects the camera from high flash sync voltage The can accept up to 250 volts but there is only a safe 3 1 volts present at the hot shoe or PORT 1 A camera triggering a MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode via the hot shoe or PORT 1 only encounters 3 1 volts This voltage is not MultiMAX battery dependent and will not vary over the life of the batteries 037 See the Hot Shoe Note in the Specifications section Page 50 for more information USB Port The MultiMAX includes a USB connector that is intended for future firmware upgrades Any available upgrades will appear on the PocketWizard Web site www pocketwizard com and can be downloaded with a USB connecting cable not included Complete instructions will be published on the website in the near future Please Note The MultiMax is not configured as portable storage device do not attempt to power another USB device with the MultiMax The MultiMAX cannot be powered via the USB port 38 Relay Mode RECEIVE Mode Only In this mode a remote camera s motor drive is triggered by RECEIVER MODE a MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode The MultiMAX then gom switches to TRANSMIT mode and waits for a sync pulse A from the camera Upon getting the sync pulse from the camera the unit then triggers remote flash units via radio and returns to RECEIVE mode ready to trigger the camera again Using this mode it is possible using only 3 PocketWizard units t
60. rs may operate erratically during reset but will return to normal operation when reset completes Battery Level Frequency Lock Beep Mode and Channel Ux The CLEAR RESET message also displays the software version installed in the unit To view just the software version without losing settings refer to the Software Version Display section Page 39 for more information 52 SUSTAINING HIGH PERFORMANCE Long distance performance from your Positioning MultiMAX depends on the orientation and position of the units Whenever possible try to maintain a line aX of sight between the units and keep the antennas parallel Make sure they are not Best Acceptable __ Worst near any large metal concrete or high water content objects People and trees Blocking Signal are mostly water Make sure they are not 5 blocked by these objects or by hills 3j 1 Maintain at least 12 distance between 4 antennas Avoid direct antenna contact with anything metallic Dead spots have a number of causes but the solution is usually the same move the unit a few inches or feet away from the problem area Mount the remote PocketWizard so that the antenna is completely above the top edge of the flash pack and away Mounting from any metal light modifiers stands etc suggestion L Visit www pocketwizard com for more troubleshooting information As more information becomes available it will be posted there Be sure to
61. s available it will be posted there 48 TECHNICAL INFORMATION Specifications Weight 5 4 ounces with alkaline batteries Dimensions 1 4 inches deep x 2 1 inches wide x 4 0 inches tall body only Flexible antenna 2 4 inches tall 0 3 inches in diameter Batteries 2 x AA IEC LR6 1 5 V batteries alkaline recommended Read the Getting Started section Page 13 for more information ACC Accessory Port For AC Power use PW AC MX adapter Input Output Ports 3 5mm 1 8 mono miniphone Polarity sensitive only connect properly wired cables AX Input Voltage 250 VDC Input Current 0 3 Triggers in both polarities ormal Polarity Specs Input Voltage 250 VDC Input Current 4 0 A for 20 microseconds 0 25 A continuous Reverse Polarity Specs AX Input Voltage 200 VDC AX Input Current 2 0 A for 20 microseconds pulse only no continuous contact Port 1 and Hot Shoe Output Voltage 3 1 VDC typical safe for digital cameras voltage present Port 1 and Hot Shoe lt 2 2 VDC triggering threshold PORT 1 and Hot Shoe 0 0005 A holding current HOT SHOE NOTE Some cameras may exhibit undesirable behavior if the RECEIVE unit is mounted in the camera hot shoe when that camera is being fired remotely Some cameras hot shoe and motor drive contacts may share some connections This can cause the camera to lock up or stop operating normally If your camera does not function properly in
62. s the numeric entry screen Delays the remote units and PORT 2 Remote units and PORT 2 will fire at the EA en same time after the displayed delay PORT 2 will remain 9 contacted for the set contact time On the main display D small letter D will appear over the right of the large L to a B 0 show that the Local output PORT 2 will be delayed Pressing L will toggle the Local output PORT 2 on and off but the small D will remain TRANSMIT unit Remotes PORT 2 delayed 31 B Remotes Only AA B Enters the numeric entry screen Delays the Radio remote units only PORT 2 will trigger immediately Remote units will trigger after the displayed delay If the contact time for the MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode is longer than the delay PORT 2 will remain contacted for the delay time rather than the contact time Rear Curtain AA C T eN Enters the Rear Curtain screen Use this mode to trigger REA RTAIN the flash at the end of an exposure rather than at the RERR U i beginning In this mode both the Radio remote trigger and PORT 2 are delayed 1 8 Use the AW keys to set the rear curtain sync time equal to the camera s shutter speed Common rear curtain sync Rear Curtain Screen times are available per the table below 1 8 0 For rear curtain sync times other than the ones displayed above or for fine tuning rear curtain times for your specific equipment press amp
63. ter There is no transmit channel to set in this mode It uses the channel as displayed in the upper right No relay function off no display The radio operates only as a receiver Make sure the zone of the repeater is set to one you are using on your transmitter You can use all of the other zones on your transmitting unit and the RPT MultiMAX will relay your selected zones as long as it is also on one of the selected zones Deploy the repeating MultiMAX where it effectively triggers the remote unit and can be effectively triggered by your transmitting unit Do not deploy more than one repeater to cover the same remote Extra repeating units will step on each other and make it difficult for your remote to get a trigger bathing an area with repeaters is likely to worsen the remote s performance You can use additional units to further increase the distance from your remote but each repeater should be deployed to cover only one leg of the journey Each repeating unit increases the radio delay by 0 0018 seconds 1 800 If you are using the RPT unit for remote camera triggering this small delay will be unnoticeable If you are using the RPT unit for remote flash triggering this may affect the fastest shutter speed you can use PocketWizard PocketWizard com Suggestions for remote camera triggering Eliminate as many RF interference issues as possible Maintain a line of sight between the units Keep the
64. this mode then remove the unit from the camera s hot shoe 49 Radio Information Transmit Output Power 0 001 watt 1 1000 of a watt or 1 milliwatt Typical Transmitter Output Duration 0 0005 seconds 1 2000 second or 50 microseconds Bandwidth Narrowband 70KHz TRANSMIT 230KHz RECEIVE PocketWizard Radio Frequencies and MultiMAx 346 50 MHz Hz 24 Bit Hz MultiMAX and MAX only 20 Bit in FAST MODE Hz 50 Maximum and Minimum Settings The following table details the maximum and minimum values allowed for each numeric entry setting available in the MultiMAX Contact Time 999 99 seconds or 01 seconds 16 minutes 39 99 seconds Delay Time 9 9999 seconds 0001 seconds add 0 0005 to displayed value for RECEIVE units triggered via radio nterval Intervalometer mode 99 59 59 1 second shy of 4 days 1 second 4 hours or 359 999 seconds nterval Multipop mode 999 99 seconds 01 seconds 16 minutes 39 99 seconds Count for Load Count or 9999 ntervalometer Multipop Intervals are probably accurate to within 2 6 seconds per day based on the precision of the internal crystal operating at 30 parts per million The maximum run time for Multipop with count set to 9999 is over 115 days The maximum run time for Intervalometer with count set to 9999 is just over 114 years You may need to use an AC adapter for this operation as batteries are unlikely to last
65. time starts as soon as any input is complete Input can be from any of the following sources TEST button is pressed hot shoe is triggered or radio trigger is received Additional triggers occurring during contact time are ignored Set Contact Time Screen lt gt Contact time is NOT the length of time set for TRANSMIT mode will send a radio triggering signal Contact time affects PORT 1 and PORT 2 only and does not affect radio trigger transmission Pressing and holding TEST on a MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode will continuously send the radio trigger signal and hold the contact on a MultiMAX set for RECEIVE as well as the TRANSMIT unit When the TEST button is released each unit s contact time will then begin 0 08 seconds can theoretically accommodate shooting with remote flash up to 12 FPS Frames Per Second however testing with your specific equipment may be required Setting the Contact Time to 0 01 seconds will work with most cameras and flashes and offers the fastest FPS up to 30 with some PocketWizard products For more information about maximum frame rates and optimum settings please visit the User Forum of our website at www pocketwizard com 26 For triggering remote cameras a longer contact time allows for continuous repeatable motor drive triggering example 5 frame bursts every trigger It also allows for controlled bulb exposure Example of Burst Shooting If a remote camera is capab
66. tion Page 52 for more information 39 APPLICATIONS OF ADVANCED FUNCTIONS The applications below are unique ways to use the advanced functions of the MultiMAX Many of them require fine tuning or adjustment to work with different camera equipment Always perform test exposures to insure reliable results Self Timer or Cable Release Delays or Intervalometer and Multipop with a count of 1 can be used as a camera timer for self portraits or as a trigger delay to reduce camera shake Review Delay Intervalometer and Multipop sections for more information TTL Auto flash Helper When using an on camera TTL flash or Automatic exposure flash with a remote flash there may be situations where you do not want the remote flash to affect the TTL or Auto flash sensor The on camera flash can underexpose by quenching early turning off too soon because it measured the light from the remote flash The reverse of this can also be undesirable If the remote flash is in Automatic mode it may quench too early because it sensed the light from the on camera flash Using Delay mode can help solve this problem Follow the steps below if using a TTL or Automatic flash attached directly to the camera 1 Attach the camera s PC terminal to PORT 1 on a MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode 2 Attach manual or Automatic flash to MultiMAX set for RECEIVE mode 3 On the MultiMAX set for TRANSMIT mode press A A B to enter the set delay screen 4
67. to capture the flash Some cameras are not suitable for equalization For best equalization a camera must have a consistent lag time If a camera s lag time varies widely or unpredictably from shot to shot then it may not be possible to synchronize that camera This is not a flaw of either the camera or the MultiMAX A varying lag time in a camera is considered acceptable operation for the majority of photographic situations Cameras are usually designed to respond predictably shot to shot but are not necessarily or specifically designed to do so with the precision needed for equalization Many factors can affect a camera s lag time e Camera Pre Trigger status cameras that have a two stage trigger button half press wakes up the camera full press triggers the camera will probably have widely different lag times if triggered while awake versus asleep Cameras usually have more consistent lag times if they are kept awake or Pre Triggered The camera will also respond more quickly but will consume batteries at a faster rate Pre Trigger cables are available from PocketWizard for many cameras Camera batteries lag times may begin to drift or slow down as the camera s batteries fade especially in primarily mechanical cameras Fresh batteries are recommended for equalization Temperature and humidity as these factors change the mechanical parts of a camera may move differently thus affecting lag time A temperature i
68. u cnet PR certs Ave RU E At hecho ces 30 A Count Ups RESET Ls eee ee epa ede Gel na 30 B Count Down 30 C Cleary RESCt EE 30 SEI Gt Augie nude Gotan 30 Advanced ier te p tee e ek Rh e pr 31 A Delay Menu TRANSMITTER 31 Remotes PORT cows eet 31 Remotes e Re waka hee aed 32 aere Gwent Na aden eae 32 A Delay Menu 33 AS PORT 13 POBT2 ceteras 33 B PORTZ unus ete sees dd oO RU DH anda 33 C3EQUAli28 rese ped cta 34 Intervalometer Time Lapse Photography 35 36 D SpeedCycler 5 37 D Fast RECEIVER x eee qu Red 38 Other Feat l8S ius ae str ta tbe rx Sar eR veiba Qr ea 38 Keypad LOCK ies orem exe Pr cae 38 High Voltage Protection 0 cece eee eee 38 USB POI pec e P ORI er DU Aha te UP S 38 Relay MOG ehe cha eR Red ERAN RE 39 Software Version Display

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