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Firefly 3 - User Manual

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F i r e f l y 3 Infra-Red Slave Unit Instructions Use in Caves
Based on a design by Dav i d G i b s o n o f t h e B C R A C a ve R adi o a n d E l e c t r o n i c s G r o u p . V e r 2 . 1 .
S t a n d a r d O p e rat ion
1. C o n n e c t t h e F i r e fly s l a v e u n i t t o t h e fla s h g u n ( s t robe) u s i n g t h e h o t s h oe a d a p t o r ( o r P C s y n c h l e a d o r 6 . 2 5 / 0 . 2 5 " j a c k ) .
2. At t a c h th e Fi r e f l y s l a v e un i t to t h e f l a s h g u n us i n g th e se l f -a dhes iv e h o o k & lo o p fa s t en er pr o v i d e d . D o n o t f i x i t a d j a c ent
t o t h e f l a s h g u n ' s b a t t e r y c o m p a r t m e n t a s t h i s c a n b e a s o u r c e o f i n t e r fer e n c e w h i c h c o u l d c a u s e s p u r i o u s t rigg e r i n g .
3. S w i t c h t h e fl a s h gu n o n a n d t e s t u s i n g yo u r ca m er a . No t e t h a t r a n g e i s re d u c e d i n high am bien t li g h t l e v e l s ! T h e u n i t
s houl d n o t be us e d i n fl u o r e s c e n t l i ght in g as th i s w i l l ca u s e it t o t r i gge r co n t i n u o u s l y an d a l s o ru n the ba t t e r y do w n
pr em atur ely .
Cav i n g o r O u t d o or Us e
For c a v i n g o r o u t d o o r u s e i t i s s t r o n g l y rec o m men ded t h a t a l l s ea m s a n d p a r t i c u l a rly t h e c a b l e g r o m m e t a r e p r o t e c t e d w i t h
w a t e r p r o of cl o t h " g a f f e r " t a p e or s i l i c o n e b a t h s e a l a n t b e f o r e us e . H o w e v e r , do n o t co v e r t h e cen t ra l 25 m m o f th e in f r a - r e d
w in dow as th i s is wh e r e th e se n s o r is lo c a t e d . In a d d i t i o n , co v e r i n g th e s c r e w ho l e s wi l l pr e v e n t t h e sc r e w s fr o m ru s t i n g . To
prot ect bo t h Fi r e f l y 2 an d fla s h gu n , s e a l i n g bo t h in a cl e a r pl a s t i c ba g ke eps th e wo r s t of th e mu d an d da m p aw a y an d wi l l
prolo n g th e li f e of th e eq u i p m e n t . S A F E T Y WA R N I N G ! We t fl a s h gu n s ca n be ex t r e m e l y da n ger o u s when we t du e to th e h i gh
v o l t a g e s u s e d .
If yo u ha v e n o t ye t a c q u i r ed a f l a s h gu n (s t r o b e) f o r u s e w i t h t h e Fir e f l y w e r e c o m m en d t h e u s e o f a " n o n d edica t e d " fla s h
gun . Th e s e us u a l ly ha v e a s i n g l e co n t a c t on th e squa r e se c t i o n of t h e pl a s t i c moulding t h a t co m e s in t o co n t a c t with th e ho t
s h o e . Co n v e r s e l y "d e d i c a t ed " u n i t s us u a l l y ha v e m o re t h a n on e c o n t a c t ( o f t e n th r e e ) . A fla s h gu n o f gu i d e nu m b e r 25 - 3 0 m
( 1 00f t ) @ 100 A S A w o u l d b e a g o o d c h o i c e .
In f r a - R e d T r i g g e r ing
In fra - r e d t rigge r i n g is des i r a b l e in ma n y c i rc u m s t a n c e s bec a u s e di r e c t li g h t fr o m a fl a s h gun at the ca mera w o u l d be
det rimen t a l t o t h e p i c t u r e bein g t a k e n . T h i s i s p a r t i c ul a rly t rue w h e n u s ing t h e u n it for c a v e phot o g ra p h y a s i n f r a -r e d
t r i gger i n g pr e v e n t s li g h t fr o m th e tr i g g er fl a s h gu n be i n g re f lec t ed of f wa t e r va p o u r fr o m t h e ph ot o gra p h er and sp o i l i n g th e
pict u r e. A p i e c e o f n eut r a l - d e n s i t y f i l t e r ( s u ppli e d ) ca n b e u s e d a s a n i n f r a -red f i l t e r f o r t u r n i n g a n y fla s h g u n i n t o a n i n f r a - r e d
t r i gger .
To c o n s t r u c t a n in fra - r e d t r i g g e r :
1. Pl a c e t h e f i l t e r o v er t h e fro n t o f t h e l e n s o f t h e t r i g g e r f l a s h g u n ( t h e o n e c o n n e c t e d t o t h e c a m e r a ) a n d c u t i t w i t h s c i s s o r s
s o t h a t i t is j u s t l a r g er t h a n t h e t r a n s p a r e n t a r e a o f t h e l e n s .
2. Ta p e it o n w i t h a s s m a l l a n o v e r l a p w i t h t h e l ens a s p o s s ible u s i n g c l o t h o r i n s u l a t i o n t a p e .
Bat t e r y Rep l a c e m e n t
R epla c e t h e b a t t e r i e s u s i n g t h e foll o w i n g pro c ed u r e :
1. O b t a i n a n ew b a t t er y ( c o i n c e l l ) , t y p e C R 2 032 f r o m y o u r d e a l e r o r a phot o g ra p h i c o r c h e m i s t ' s s h o p ( d ru g s t o r e , p h a r m a c y ) .
Th is is a new t y p e o f b at t e r y and is d iff e r e n t t o t h a t u s ed i n o l d e r Fir e f l y s lav e u n i t s .
2. U n d o t h e t h r e e s c r e w s a n d s e p a r a t e t h e l i d a n d b a s e .
3. Loca t e t h e o l d b a t t ery a n d g e n t l y p o p it o u t n o t i n g i t s o rien t a t i o n .
4. Wea rin g gloves o r u s i n g a p i e c e o f d r y c l o t h , re m o v e t h e f r e s h b a t t ery f r o m i t s prot ect i v e p a c k a g i n g .
5. Pu s h t h e f r e s h b a t t ery i n t o t h e b a t t e r y h o l d e r . I t c a n o n l y b e ins e rt ed w i t h t h e c o r r ect o r i ent a t i o n .
6. R ea s s e m b l e t h e c a s e a n d d o u p t h e s c r e w s u n t i l t h ey j u s t f e e l t i g h t . D o n o t o v e r t i g h t e n . T h i s a v oids da m a g e t o t h e p l a s t ic
c a s e .
R ewi r i n g a H ot - S h o e A d a p t o r (or P C s ync h lea d o r 6 . 2 5 / 0 . 2 5" ja c k )
1. O b t a i n a r e p l a c e m e n t h o t s h o e a d a p t o r o r P C s y n c h s oc k et
2. U n d o t h e t h r e e s c r e w s a n d s epa ra t e t h e l i d a n d b a s e .
3. U n s c r e w t h e t e r m i n a l b l o c k s c rew s a n d r e m o v e t h e w i r es f r o m t h e t e r m i n a l b l o c k .
4. Th rea d th e ne w le a d t h r o u gh th e ca s e gr o m m et , al l o w i n g a b o u t 10m m (1 / 2 " ) of sl a c k be t w ee n th e te r m i n a l bl o c k an d th e
grom met . If a ca b l e ti e is n o t av a i la b l e to us e a s a s t r a i n re l i e f a lo o s e figure 8 kn o t sh o u l d be t i ed in th e le a d al l o w i n g
10m m ( 1/ 2 " ) o f s l a c k .
5. Ba r e t h e t w o wi r e s a t th e en d o f t h e l e a d a n d pu s h on e in t o ea c h te r m i n a l bl o c k re c e p t a c l e . It d o e s no t ma t t e r w h i c h w ay
roun d t h e l ea d s a r e .
6. Ti g h t en t h e t e r m i n a l b l o c k s c r e w s .
7. R ea s s e m b l e t h e c a s e a n d d o u p t h e s c r e w s u n t i l t h e y j u s t f e e l t i g h t . D o n o t o v e r t i g h t e n . T h i s a v oids d a m a g e t o t h e p l a s t ic
c a s e .
R epai r & M a i n t e n a n c e
If y o u r F i r e f l y a n d f l a s h gu n c o m b i n a t i o n is n o t w o rk i n g t r y t h e f o l l o w i n g :
1. C h ec k t h a t t h e h o t s h o e a d a p t or i s c o n n e c t e d t o t h e f l a s h g u n t h e c o r r e c t w a y a r o u n d - s o m e fla s h g u n s a l l o w t h e h o t s h o e
a d a p t o r t o s l i d e o n f r o m b o t h d i r e c t i o n s .
2. C h ec k c o n t a c t bet ween t h e h o t s h o e a d a p t o r a n d t h e f l a s h gu n . W ipe t h e c o n n e c t i o n s .
3. If t h i s is t h e f i r s t t ime t h a t yo u h a v e u s ed t h e F i r e f l y t r y a d i f f eren t f l a s h gu n . Oc c a s i o n a l l y , a f l a s h gu n ma y be
encou n t e r ed th a t i s n o t co m p a t i b l e w i t h t h e Fi r efl y - p a r t i c ula r l y " d edica t e d " u n i t s . Th e s e u s u a l l y h a v e more t h a n o n e
c o n t a c t o n t h e s q u a r e s e c t i o n o f t h e p l a s t i c m o u l d i n g t h a t c omes i n t o c o n t a c t w i t h t h e h o t s h o e.
4. C h a n g e t h e ba t t ery . C h e c k th e ba t t ery co n n e c t ion s . I f th e ba t t e r y ho l d e r s p r u n g co n t a c t s a p p e a r d u l l c le a n th e m w i t h a
c o t t o n w o o l b u d a n d a lc o h o l .
5. If t h e un i t i s s t i l l no t wo r k i n g Fi r efl y El e c t ronics will fix it fo r fr e e fo r tw o y ea rs af t e r pu r c h a s e , su b j e c t t o fa i r we a r an d
t ea r . Th i s s p e c i f i c a l l y ex c l u d es wa t e r da m a ge i f t h e un it ha s n o t be e n ad e q u a t e l y sea led . I f th e u n i t is no lo n g e r un d e r
gua r a n t e e , F i r e f l y E l ec t r o n i c s c a n r e p a i r / r e f u r b i s h y o u r u n i t f o r l e s s t ha n h a l f t h e c o s t o f a n e w u n i t .
If Y o u r F i r efl y Get s W et
1. O p en t h e u n i t u p a s s o o n a s p o s s ible b y r e m o v i n g t he t h r ee s c r ews .
2. R emov e t h e b a t t e r y a n d d r y e v e r y t h i n g o u t u s ing a h o t a i r b l o w e r, fa n h e a t e r o r h a i r d r i e r .
3. R epla c e t h e t h e b a t t e r y . I f i t l o o k s c o rrode d a l w a y s f i t a f r e s h o n e .
4. R ea s s e m b l e t h e c a s e a n d d o u p t h e s c r e w s u n t i l t h e y j u s t f e e l t i g h t . D o n o t o v e r t i g h t e n . T h i s a v oids d a m a g e t o t h e p l a s t ic
c a s e .
S p a r e b a t t er i e s ar e a v a i l a b l e f r o m yo u r su p p l i e r o r di r e c t
from t h e m a n u f a c t u rer .
WEB : ww w . f i r efl y e l e c t r o n i c s . c o . u k
Ema i l : i n f o @ firef l y e l e c t r o n i c s . co. u k
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Summary

Standard Operation

Caving or Outdoor Use Recommendations

Infra-Red Triggering

Infra-Red Filter Construction

Guide on how to construct an infra-red trigger using a neutral-density filter and tape.

Battery Replacement Procedure

CR2032 Battery Replacement Steps

Detailed steps for replacing the CR2032 battery in the Firefly slave unit, including handling and reassembly.

Rewiring Hot-Shoe Adaptor

Hot-Shoe Adaptor or PC Synch Lead Rewiring

Instructions for replacing and rewiring a hot-shoe adaptor or PC synch lead for the Firefly unit.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Firefly and Flash Gun Combination Issues

Steps to troubleshoot common issues with the Firefly and flash gun connection and operation.

Firefly Unit Water Damage Procedure

Procedure for drying and repairing the Firefly unit if it becomes wet, including battery check.

Summary

Standard Operation

Caving or Outdoor Use Recommendations

Infra-Red Triggering

Infra-Red Filter Construction

Guide on how to construct an infra-red trigger using a neutral-density filter and tape.

Battery Replacement Procedure

CR2032 Battery Replacement Steps

Detailed steps for replacing the CR2032 battery in the Firefly slave unit, including handling and reassembly.

Rewiring Hot-Shoe Adaptor

Hot-Shoe Adaptor or PC Synch Lead Rewiring

Instructions for replacing and rewiring a hot-shoe adaptor or PC synch lead for the Firefly unit.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Firefly and Flash Gun Combination Issues

Steps to troubleshoot common issues with the Firefly and flash gun connection and operation.

Firefly Unit Water Damage Procedure

Procedure for drying and repairing the Firefly unit if it becomes wet, including battery check.

Overview

The document describes the Firefly 3 Infra-Red Slave Unit, a device designed for use in caves, based on a design by David Gibson of the BCRA Cave Radio and Electronics Group. This unit functions as an infra-red slave trigger for flash guns, allowing for remote flash synchronization with a camera.

Function Description

The Firefly 3 Infra-Red Slave Unit is primarily used to trigger a flash gun (strobe) remotely when connected to a camera. Its main purpose is to enable off-camera flash photography, particularly in environments like caves where direct flash from the camera can be detrimental to the image quality. By using infra-red triggering, the unit prevents light from the trigger flash gun (connected to the camera) from reflecting off elements like water vapour, which can spoil the picture. The unit is designed to work with a "non-dedicated" flash gun, which typically has a single contact on the hot shoe.

Important Technical Specifications

The unit connects to a flash gun via a hot shoe adaptor or a PC synch lead (6.25/0.25" jack). It is powered by a CR2032 coin cell battery. The infra-red sensor is located within a central 25mm area of the infra-red window. The range of the unit is reduced in high ambient light levels. It is explicitly stated that the unit should not be used in fluorescent lighting, as this will cause continuous triggering and premature battery drain. For optimal performance, a flash gun with a guide number of 25-30m (100ft) at 100ASA is recommended.

Usage Features

Standard Operation:

  1. Connection: The Firefly slave unit connects to the flash gun using either a hot shoe adaptor or a PC synch lead. It should be attached to the flash gun using the provided self-adhesive hook & loop fastener, but not adjacent to the flash gun's battery compartment to avoid interference.
  2. Testing: Once connected, the flash gun should be switched on and tested with the camera. Users should be aware of reduced range in high ambient light and avoid fluorescent lighting.

Caving or Outdoor Use:

  1. Waterproofing: For use in wet environments like caves, it is strongly recommended to protect all seams and especially the cable grommet with waterproof cloth "gaffer" tape or silicone bath sealant. However, the central 25mm of the infra-red window must not be covered, as this is where the sensor is located. Covering screw holes is also advised to prevent rusting.
  2. Protection: To protect both the Firefly 3 and the flash gun from mud and damp, sealing them in a clear plastic bag is recommended.
  3. Safety Warning: Users are warned that wet flash guns can be extremely dangerous due to high voltages.
  4. Flash Gun Compatibility: The unit is designed for "non-dedicated" flash guns, which have a single contact on the hot shoe. "Dedicated" units, often with three contacts, may not be compatible.

Infra-Red Triggering:

  1. Purpose: Infra-red triggering is beneficial when direct light from a camera-mounted flash would negatively impact the photograph, especially in caves where reflections off water vapour can spoil the image.
  2. Constructing an Infra-Red Trigger: A supplied neutral-density filter can be used to convert any flash gun into an infra-red trigger. This involves cutting the filter to just cover the transparent area of the trigger flash gun's lens (the one connected to the camera) and taping it on with minimal overlap.

Battery Replacement:

  1. Battery Type: The unit uses a CR2032 coin cell battery, which is a new type compared to older Firefly slave units.
  2. Procedure: To replace the battery, users must undo three screws, separate the lid and base, gently pop out the old battery (noting its orientation), and then insert the new CR2032 battery. It's recommended to wear gloves or use a dry cloth when handling the new battery to remove it from its protective packaging. The new battery can only be inserted in the correct orientation. After insertion, the case should be reassembled, and the screws tightened until they just feel tight to avoid damaging the plastic case.

Rewiring a Hot-Shoe Adaptor (or PC synch lead or 6.25/0.25" jack):

  1. Procedure: If a replacement hotshoe adaptor or PC synch socket is needed, users must undo the three screws, separate the lid and base, unscrew the terminal block screws, and remove the old wires.
  2. New Lead Installation: The new lead is threaded through the case grommet, allowing about 10mm (1/2") of slack. If a cable tie is not available for strain relief, a loose figure-8 knot can be tied in the lead.
  3. Wiring: The two bare wires at the end of the lead are pushed into each terminal block receptacle (the orientation does not matter).
  4. Reassembly: The terminal block screws are tightened, the case is reassembled, and the screws are tightened until they just feel tight.

Maintenance Features

Repair & Maintenance:

  1. Connection Check: Ensure the hot shoe adaptor is correctly connected to the flash gun and that there is good contact between them. Wiping the connections is recommended.
  2. Compatibility Check: If the unit is not working for the first time, try a different flash gun, as some "dedicated" flash guns may not be compatible with the Firefly.
  3. Battery Check: Change the battery and check its connections. If the battery holder's sprung contacts appear dull, clean them with a cotton wool bud and alcohol.
  4. Warranty/Repair Service: Firefly Electronics offers free repairs for two years after purchase, covering fair wear and tear, but excluding water damage if the unit was not adequately sealed. For units out of guarantee, repair/refurbishment services are available at less than half the cost of a new unit.

If Your Firefly Gets Wet:

  1. Immediate Action: Open the unit as soon as possible by removing the three screws.
  2. Drying: Remove the battery and dry all components using a hot air blower, fan heater, or hair dryer.
  3. Battery Replacement: Replace the battery, especially if it looks corroded.
  4. Reassembly: Reassemble the case and tighten the screws until they just feel tight.

Spare Parts: Spare batteries are available from the supplier or directly from the manufacturer.

Contact Information: WEB: www.fireflyelectronics.co.uk Email: info@fireflyelectronics.co.uk

Firefly 3 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandFirefly
Model3
CategoryCamera Accessories
LanguageEnglish

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