Nikon Sb 80Dx Users Manual

Nikon-Sb-80Dx-Owner-S-Manual nikon-sb-80dx-owner-s-manual

sb80dx dfb849e6-dc1a-4d87-a1f8-4290584fef9d Nikon Camera Flash SB-80DX User Guide |

2015-01-26

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Instruction Manual

Autofocus Speedlight

SB-80DX

SB-80DX (En)

Foreword

Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Speedlight SB-80DX.

To get the most out of your Speedlight, please read this instruction

manual thoroughly before use.

n(p. xx) indicates the reference page.

Main features and functions of the SB-80DX

•The SB-80DX is a high-performance Speedlight having a guide number of

38/125 (at the 35mm zoom-head position, ISO 100, m/ft., 20°C/68°F).

According to the camera/lens combination used with the SB-80DX, you can

perform various types of TTL auto flash (p. 35), Non-TTL auto flash (p. 40)‚

and Manual flash (p. 44). When used with Nikon Digital SLRs cameras, D-TTL

auto flash (p. 35) and AA (Auto Aperture) flash (p. 42) can be performed.

•Automatic power zoom changes the zoom-head position continuously to

match the lens focal length (incompatible with some cameras and lenses,

see p. 24). The built-in wide-flash adapter increases the angle of coverage to

match a 14mm/17mm lens (p. 25).

•Flash head tilts up to 90° or down to –7°, and rotates horizontally 180° to the

left and 90° to the right, enabling bounce flash (p. 66) or close-up

photography (p. 70).

•Use of the provided Nikon Diffusion Dome in combination with the built-in

wide-flash adapter (p. 69) in bounce flash (p.66) or close-up photography

(p.70) diffuses the light from the flash to soften shadows and creates well-

balanced, more natural-looking pictures.

•Wireless multiple flash photography (p. 82) is also possible.

•For operation in dim light, an illuminator for the LCD panel is provided (p. 10).

•Custom settings are provided to set values, or activate or cancel functions

that are not necessary to set each time (p. 12).

Note

•The Nikon N90s, N90, N70, N60, N55, N50, N8008‚ N8008s, PRONEA 6i, N6006, N6000,

N5005, N4004‚ and N4004s are sold exclusively in the U.S.A.

•The Nikon N80-Series, N65-Series are sold exclusively in the U.S.A. and Central and

South America.

•The Nikon N2020 and N2000 are sold exclusively in the U.S.A and Canada.

Preparation

Take trial shots

Take trial shots before shooting at important occasions like weddings or

graduations.

Have Nikon spot-check your Speedlight regularly

Nikon recommends that you have your Speedlight serviced by an authorized

dealer or service center at least once every two years.

Using your Speedlight correctly

The Nikon Speedlight SB-80DX’s performance has been optimized for use with

Nikon brand cameras/accessories including lenses.

Camera/accessories made by other manufacturers may not meet Nikon’s

criteria for specifications, and nonconforming cameras/accessories could

damage the SB-80DX’s components. Nikon cannot guarantee the SB-80DX’s

performance when used with non-Nikon products.

Supplied accessories

Tips on using the Speedlight

Nikon Diffusion Dome

SW-10H (p. 69)

Soft Case SS-80

Camera groups and available flash modes

In this manual, Nikon SLR cameras are divided into eight groups (I to VII, and Digital

SLRs) unless otherwise noted. First consult the camera group table to see which

group your camera belongs to. Then as you read the manual, you will find specific

information on how to use the SB-80DX with your particular camera.

IF5, F100, F90X/ N90s, F90-Series/ N90,

F80-Series/ N80-Series, F70-Series/ N70 –

II F4-Series, F65-Series/N65-Series, F-801s/

N8008s, F-801/N8008, Pronea 600i/6i ––

∗1

III F-601/N6006, F-601M/N6000 ––

IV F60-Series/N60, F50-Series/N50, –– –

F-401x/N5005

VF-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s,

F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000 –––∗2

VI FM3A, FA, FE2, FG, Nikonos V,

F3-Series (with the AS-17) ––– –

VII New FM2, FM10, FE10, F3-Series, F55/N55 ––– – –

Digital D1-Series, D100

SLRs ––– – –

∗1Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash is not possible with the Pronea 600i/6i.

∗2Programmed TTL Auto Flash is set.

∗3TTL auto flash mode for Nikon Digital SLRs.

∗4Possible only when a non-CPU lens is attached.

∗5Repeating Flash is not possible with the F3-Series (using the AS-17).

∗6FP High-Speed Flash sync is not possible with F80-Series/N80-Series and F70-Series/N70 cameras.

Group

Camera name

TTL auto flash (p. 35)

Multi-Sensor

Balanced

Fill-Flash

Multi-

Sensor

Balanced

Fill-Flash

Matrix

Balanced

Fill-Flash

Center-

Weighted

Fill-Flash/Spot

Fill-Flash

Standard

TTL flash

The SB-80DX’s available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the

camera’s exposure mode and metering system. Refer to “Detailed operation” (p. 33) and your

camera’s instruction manual.



:Available

–:Not available

Multi-Sensor

Balanced

Fill-Flash for

Digital SLRs

Multi-Sensor

Balanced

Fill-Flash for

Digital SLRs

–––––

∗6I

––––––II

––––––III

––––––IV

––––––V

–––––

∗5–VI

––––––VII

Digital



∗4  

SLRs

D-TTL auto flash

∗3

(p. 35) Manual mode

Group

Center-

Weighted

Fill-Flash for

Digital SLRs

Standard

TTL flash

for

Digital SLRs

Non-TTL

Auto Flash

(p. 40)

Auto

Aperture

Flash

(p. 42)

Manual

Flash

(p. 46)

Repeating

Flash

(p. 48)

High-Speed

Flash sync

(p. 51)

Contents

Preparation

Foreword........................................................................2

Tips on using the Speedlight .........................................3

Camera groups and available flash modes ...................4

Speedlight parts.............................................................8

LCD panel....................................................................10

Control buttons ...........................................................11

Custom settings...........................................................12

Lenses .........................................................................14

Basic operation

1Installing batteries.....................................................16

2Test firing..................................................................18

3Attach the SB-80DX to the camera and adjust

the flash head...........................................................20

4Setting the ISO sensitivity.........................................22

5Adjusting the zoom-head position ............................24

6Setting the camera’s exposure mode and

metering system .......................................................26

7Setting the SB-80DX’s flash mode ...........................28

8Compose the picture and shoot with flash.....................30

Using the SB-80DX with the COOLPIX .......................32

Detailed operation

SB-80DX available flash modes ..................................34

TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode.........................................35

Usable cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL

auto flash mode........................................................36

Non-TTL auto flash mode............................................40

Auto Aperture flash mode............................................42

Manual mode...............................................................44

Notes on continuous flash shooting.............................53

Checking the correct exposure before shooting ..........54

Advanced operation

Exposure compensation and flash output

level compensation...................................................56

The flash shooting distance range with zoom

lenses having a variable aperture

..............................59

Slow-sync flash mode/Red-eye reduction control........60

Rear-curtain sync and Modeling illumination ..............61

Autofocus flash operation in dim light..........................62

Technical operation/

Effective Speedlight placement

Bounce flash operation ...............................................66

Close-up flash operation..............................................70

Multiple flash operation................................................74

Multiple flash shooting using cords..............................76

System chart for TTL multiple flash .............................80

Wireless multiple flash shooting ..................................82

Reference information

Optional accessories ...................................................92

Tips on Speedlight care...............................................95

Notes on batteries........................................................96

Troubleshooting...........................................................97

Specifications.............................................................100

Index..........................................................................104

Preparation

This section provides

preliminary information on

using the SB-80DX.

Basic operation

Basic procedures to take

simple, well-balanced

flash photographs in the

TTL/D-TTL auto flash

mode.

Detailed operation

A variety of flash modes

available with the SB-80DX

are provided.

Advanced operation

Advanced information on

each function of the SB-80DX

is provided.

Technical operation/Effective

Speedlight placement

Bounce, close-up, multiple

flash, and their recommended

positions are described.

Reference information

Troubleshooting,

Speedlight care, etc. are

described in this section.

Speedlight parts

1Control button quick reference (p. 12)

Easy reference chart for two-button operations

and custom settings

2Flash head (p. 68)

Can be tilted up to 90° or down to –7°, and

rotated horizontally 180° to the left and 90° to

the right.

3Flash head tilting/rotating lock

release button (p. 20)

4Battery chamber lid (p. 16)

5Built-in bounce card (p. 69)

Creates a highlight in the subject’s eyes in

bounce flash photography.

6Built-in wide-flash adapter (p. 72)

Increases the angle of coverage to match a

14mm or 17mm lens.

7Red-eye reduction lamp (p. 60)

Lights up to prevent red-eye from occurring.

8AF-assist illuminator (p. 62)

Automatically turns on for autofocus

operation when the light is dim.

9External power source

terminal (p. 94)

Allows connection of a power cord to the

SB-80DX’s external power source terminal

(supplied with a cover).

10 Light sensor window for

Non-TTL auto flash (p. 40)

Senses reflected light from the subject in

Non-TTL auto or Auto Aperture flash mode.

11 Light sensor window for wireless

slave flash (p. 82)

Senses light from the master flash unit in

wireless multiple flash operation.

12 Mount pin

For cameras featuring a safety lock system.

13 Hot-shoe contacts

14 Mounting foot

Preparation

15 Flash head tilting angle scale (p. 68)

16 Modeling illuminator button (p. 61)

Press to fire flash repeatedly to check the

illumination and the shadows cast on the

subject before taking pictures.

Wireless slave flash cancel

button (p. 85)

The SB-80DX will not fire, while this button

is pressed.

17 Flash head rotating angle

scale (p. 68)

18 Terminal cover

19 TTL multiple flash terminal (p. 78)

Connects the SB-80DX to the slave flash

unit(s) in TTL multiple flash operation.

20 Sync terminal (p. 79)

Connects the SB-80DX to the sync terminal

of the slave flash unit(s) in other than TTL

multiple flash operations.

21 LCD panel (p. 10)

22 Control buttons (p. 11)

23 Ready-light

Lights up when the SB-80DX is fully

recycled and ready to fire. Blinks after the

SB-80DX fires at its maximum output in

various auto flash modes, indicating that

the light may be insufficient.

24 Mounting foot lock lever (p. 20)

For reference, all indications are displayed in the illustration.

LCD panel

About the LCD panel

•Because of the directional characteristics of the liquid crystal, the LCD is difficult to read when

viewed diagonally from above; however, the display can be seen clearly from a somewhat

lower angle.

•The LCD panel display tends to be darker at high temperatures (approx. 60°C/140°F). When

the temperature returns to normal (20°C/68°F), the display also returns to normal.

•The LCD’s response time tends to slow down at low temperatures (approx. 5°C/41°F and below).

When the temperature returns to normal (20°C/68°F), response time also returns to normal.

Using the SB-80DX in dim light

Press any button on the SB-80DX to turn the illuminator on (when the SB-80DX power is on), and it will

stay on for approx. 16 seconds. To cancel the LCD panel illuminator, go to the Custom settings mode

and set it to OFF (p. 13).

1Flash mode (pp. 34-51)

DE Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL

Multi Sensor

CDE Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL

Multi Sensor for Digital SLRs

DF Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash, Center-Weighted

Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash

CDF Center-Weighted Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs

DStandard TTL Flash, Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash,

Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash

CD Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLRs

ANon-TTL Auto Flash

BAuto Aperture Flash

GManual Flash

GH Repeating Flash

GK FP High-Speed Flash sync

2ISO sensitivity (p. 22), No. of repeating

flashes/Frequency (p. 48)

3Red-eye reduction (p. 60)

4Sound monitor (p. 89)

5Wireless flash (p. 84)

6Zoom-head position (p. 24)

7Underbar (p. 21)

8Aperture (p. 40)

9Flash output level (p. 46)

10 Exposure compensation (p. 58)

11 Underexposure (p. 31)

12 Flash output level compensation value

(p. 58)/Underexposure value (p. 31)

13 Flash shooting distance range (p. 28)

14 ft (feet) (p. 13)

15 LCD panel illuminator (p. 13)

16 m (meters) (p. 13)

17 Standby function (p. 19)

18 AF-assist illuminator (p. 62)

Preparation

Press the MODE and SEL buttons simultaneously

To recall the underexposure value in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash

mode

(p. 31)

Press the MODE and ON/OFF buttons simultaneously

for approx. 2 sec.

To reset all settings, including custom settings, to their

default settings (except the distance unit selected in m/ft).

Control buttons

1hbutton

Press to test fire the flash (p. 18).

2abutton

Press to set the flash mode (p. 28).

3gbutton

•Press to select these functions:

Flash output level compensation,

aperture, number of repeating

flashes per frame, frequency, and

flash output level. The selected

item blinks and can be set using

the eand fbuttons.

•Press for approx. 2 sec. to display

the Custom settings mode (p. 12).

4ebutton/fbutton

Press to increase or decrease values.

5cbutton (wide)/

dbutton (tele)

Press to change the zoom-head

position (p. 24).

6bbutton

Press for approx. 0.5 sec. to turn

the power on and off.

Item Setting (Bold: default)

Wireless flash mode*1(p. 84) OFF (canceled) ON (activated)

Sound monitor*2in the wireless L(sound on) M(sound off)

flash mode (p. 89)

AF-assist illuminator (p. 62) AF ILL (activated) NO AF ILL (canceled)

Standby function (p. 19)

Selecting the distance unit (m, ft) (p. 13)

m (meters) ft (feet)

Canceling the power zoom function (p. 25) OFF (activated) ON (canceled)

Emergency mode*3(p. 98) OFF (not possible) ON (possible)

LCD panel illuminator (p.13) ON (turn on) OFF (turn off)

40 (sec.) 80 (sec.) 160 (sec.) 300 (sec.)

- - - - (The standby

function canceled)

Custom settings

The SB-80DX can easily set, activate, or cancel various operations using the

Custom settings function as shown below.

Control button quick

reference

Procedures for Custom

settings, recalling the

underexposure value in the

TTL auto flash mode, and

resetting all settings to their

default settings are shown

in the Control button quick

reference chart on the back

of the built-in bounce card.

*1No display appears when the SB-80DX is attached to Digital SLRs cameras.

*2The display appears when the wireless flash mode is set to ON.

*3No display appears when the built-in wide-flash adapter is not used.

AUTO (the SB-80DX turns off

when the camera’s exposure

meter turns off.)

Preparation

lSetting the LCD panel illuminator using Custom settings

1Press the gbutton for approx. 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode.

2Press the eor fbutton to choose the QLCD panel illuminator setting.

3Press the cor d button to turn the LCD panel illuminator on or off.

4To get out of the custom settings mode, press the gbutton for approx. 2 sec.

or press the bbutton.

nEven if the LCD panel illuminator is set to OFF, the SB-80DX’s LCD panel illuminator

turns on when the camera’s LCD panel illuminator is turned on. The LCD panel

illuminator also lights up when the Custom settings mode is displayed.

lSelecting the distance unit (m or ft) using Custom settings

Set the distance unit on the LCD panel to either meters “m” or feet “ft”.

nThe SB-80DX is preset to meters when the SB-80DX is shipped from the factory.

1 Press the gbutton for more than 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode.

2 Press the eor fbutton to choose “Selecting the distance unit (m, ft).”

3 Press the cor dbutton to set the preferred distance unit.

4Press the gbutton for more than 2 sec. or press the bbutton to return to

the normal setting mode.

ON (turn on) OFF (turn off)

m (meters) display ft (feet) display

In this manual, Nikkor lenses are divided into two types: CPU Nikkor lenses and

non-CPU Nikkor lenses.

Lenses

CPU Nikkor lenses G-type Nikkor‚ D-type Nikkor‚ Non-G/D-type AF Nikkor

(except for AF Nikkor for the F3AF)‚ AI-P Nikkor

Non-CPU Nikkor lenses AI-S Nikkor, AI Nikkor‚ Series E

CPU lenses

CPU lenses have CPU contacts.

G-type Nikkor lenses

G-type Nikkor lenses send distance information to the

camera body, but do not have an aperture ring. Therefore,

set the aperture on the camera body. With some cameras,

the usable exposure mode is limited. For more details,

refer to the lens instruction manual.

D-type Nikkor lenses

D-type Nikkor lenses send distance information to the

camera body. Set the aperture either on the lens aperture

ring or on the camera body. For more details, refer to the

lens instruction manual.

Basic operation

In this section, basic procedures are

clearly illustrated so that you can easily

perform flash photography in the TTL/

D-TTL auto flash mode.

For more details on other flash modes, refer to

“Detailed operation” (p. 33).

lUsable batteries

mInstall four AA-type penlight batteries (1.5V or lower) of any of these types:

(1) Alkaline-manganese (1.5V)

(2) Lithium (1.5V)

(3) NiCd (rechargeable, 1.2V)

(4) Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (rechargeable, 1.2V)

nWhen replacing batteries, use fresh batteries of the same brand.

nHigh-power manganese batteries are not recommended for use

with the SB-80DX.

nAlways carry extra batteries when traveling.

nRefer to “Notes on batteries” on page 96.

CAUTION!

nDo not use batteries not specified in this instruction manual, as this may

cause them to explode, leak corrosive liquids, or catch on fire.

nDo not mix battery brands or types, or use old with new batteries. Otherwise

the batteries may explode, leak corrosive liquids, or catch on fire.

nDo not recharge non-rechargeable batteries in a battery charger.

Otherwise the batteries may leak corrosive liquids, or generate heat.

1Installing batteries

1Open the battery chamber lid as indicated

by the arrows.

2Install the batteries following the iand

jmarks as shown. Then close the

battery chamber lid by sliding it into place

while pressing down.

Basic operation

nMinimum recycling time is for operation using fresh batteries.

nThe data was measured without using AF-assist illuminator, zoom-head position

adjustment, or LCD panel illumination.

nThe above data may vary due to variations in battery performance.

lReplacing / recharging the batteries

mRefer to the following table to determine when to replace or recharge your

batteries‚ if the ready-light takes a long time to light up.

Minimum number of flashes and recycling times

mWhen using four fresh batteries of the same type, after the Speedlight fires at

M1/1 output.

Batteries Min. recycling time Min. number of flashes/

(approx.) recycling time

Alkaline-manganese 6.0 sec. 150 / 6 – 30 sec.

Lithium 7.5 sec. 190 / 7.5 – 30 sec.

NiCd (1000 mAh) 4.0 sec. 90 / 4 – 30 sec.

Ni-MH (1600 mA) 4.0 sec. 110 / 4 –30 sec.

Type of battery Recycling time Remedy

Alkaline-manganese More than 30 seconds Replace

Lithium More than 10 seconds

Ni-Cd (rechargeable) More than 10 seconds Recharge

Ni-MH(rechargeable)

lExternal power sources

mUsing an external power source increases the number of flash firings and

provides faster recycling times (p. 94).

nIf extremely exhausted batteries are used, a strange sound can be heard caused by

the flash head zooming back and forth even when the SB-80DX is turned off. In this

case, replace the SB-80DX’s batteries even if an external battery source is used.

2Test firing (confirming exposure)

lTest firing

CAUTION!

When test firing the Speedlight, never position your eyes close to the flash

head.

mThe SB-80DX fires at specified output in the Manual flash mode or at approx.

1/16 output in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode.

mIn the Non-TTL auto flash/Auto Aperture flash modes, the SB-80DX fires at a

flash output controlled by the ISO sensitivity, aperture, and zoom-head position.

mIn the Non-TTL auto/Auto Aperture flash mode, you can check the amount of

insufficient flash output by pressing the hbutton before taking the actual

picture (p. 54).

lb button

mPressing the bbutton for approx. 0.5 sec. turns the SB-80DX on and

the indications appear on the LCD panel. Pressing the button again turns the

SB-80DX off and the indications disappear.

1Press the

button for approx. 0.5

sec. to turn on the SB-80DX. Make sure

the ready-light comes on.

2Press the hbutton to test fire the

flash.

Basic operation

lStandby function to conserve battery power

mIf the SB-80DX and the camera are not used for approx. 40 seconds, the

standby function activates and automatically turns the SB-80DX off to

conserve battery power (standby-off state).

nOnly the Rindicator appears on the LCD panel in the standby-off state.

nThe SB-80DX in the standby-off state returns to on again when the SB-80DX’s bor

hbutton is pressed, or the shutter release button is lightly pressed (when using a

camera body that is compatible with TTL/D-TTL auto flash) (p. 36).

nIn the Wireless Flash mode (p. 84), the standby function activates in approx. 40 seconds

when the Speedlight is attached to the camera body. However, the standby function does

not work regardless of the SB-80DX’s setting when the Speedlight is used as a slave

flash unit.

nIf the ready-light does not come on in approx. 60 seconds after turning the power on, the

SB-80DX goes into standby-off state and the Rindicator appears.

nTo avoid accidental firing or a malfunction when carrying the SB-80DX in your camera

bag, press the bbutton to turn the flash unit off and make sure the Rindicator

disappears.

Adjusting standby duration/canceling standby function using

Custom settings

1 Press the gbutton for more than 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode.

2 Press the eor fbutton to choose “Standby function.”

3 Press the cor dbutton to set the appropriate standby duration.

(80 sec.)

160

(160 sec.)

300

(300 sec.)

– – – –

Standby

function

canceled

AUTO

With a camera body that is

compatible with TTL/D-TTL

auto flash (p. 36), the

SB-80DX automatically turns

off when the camera’s

exposure meter turns off and

turns back on when the

exposure meter is turned on.



















4Press the gbutton for more than 2 sec. or press the bbutton to return

to the normal setting mode.

(40 sec.)

(factory setting)

3Attach the SB-80DX to the camera and

lTurn the mounting foot lock lever securely until it stops.

mTo lock the Speedlight in place, turn the lock lever approx. 90° clockwise until

it stops. To unlock, turn the lever counterclockwise until it stops.

Lock Unlock

1Make sure the SB-80DX and the camera

body are turned off.

2Rotate the mounting foot lock lever to the

left, slide the SB-80DX’s mounting foot

into the camera’s accessory shoe and turn

the lock lever to the right.

3Hold down the flash head tilting/rotating

lock release button to adjust the flash

head to the horizontal/front position.

Basic operation

The underbar blinks when the flash head

is tilted down –7°.

The flash shooting distance range disappears

if the flash head is adjusted to other than

the horizontal/front or down –7° position.

lWarning indication

mIf the flash head is not adjusted to the horizontal/front position, when the

power is turned on, this warning appears on the LCD panel. See page 68 for

the flash head’s rotating angles.

lThe ready-light only inside the camera’s viewfinder blinks

after the power is turned on:

Camera group/camera name Possible cause

Cameras in Groups I to VI In the TTL auto flash mode, the SB-80DX is not properly

(except F70-Series/N70) attached to the camera body.

Cameras in Groups V and VI In the TTL auto flash mode, the ISO film speed set on

the camera is higher than the available range of the

Speedlight.

nThe ISO film speed set on the camera is higher or

lower than the available range for the FA camera only.

Cameras in Group VI In the TTL auto flash mode, the shutter speed is set to

M90, M250, or B (bulb).

FM3A, New FM2 The shutter speed set is faster than the flash sync

speed.

New FM2, F55/N55 The SB-80DX’s flash mode is set to TTL auto flash.

adjust the flash head

4Setting the ISO sensitivity

Digital data communication with the SB-80DX

When the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups I and II, and Nikon

Digital SLRs cameras, digital data communication is performed. The

camera automatically sends the ISO sensitivity to the SB-80DX. With a CPU

lens, the aperture and focal length are automatically set on the SB-80DX.

In this manual, the film speed for film-based cameras and the sensitivity for

Digital SLRs cameras are generally referred to as ISO sensitivity.

mFor cameras in Groups I and II, and Digital SLRs cameras, the ISO sensitivity

is automatically set and appears on the LCD panel.

mFor other camera bodies, set the ISO sensitivity using the following procedure.

1Turn the SB-80DX off once, then turn it

back on. After that, turn on the camera

body.

2The ISO sensitivity starts blinking on the

LCD panel.

nNo setting is possible if the gbutton is

pressed to stop the ISO sensitivity from

blinking. In this case, return to step 1 above.

3Press the eor fbutton to increase or

decrease the ISO sensitivity.

4Press the gbutton to stop the ISO

sensitivity from blinking.

Basic operation

lAvailable ISO sensitivity in TTL/D-TTL auto flash operation

mThe maximum ISO sensitivity range usable in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode

is ISO 25 to 1000.

nThe ISO sensitivity range may become narrower, depending on the cameras in use. For

details, see your camera instruction manual.

nThe flash shooting distance range on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel varies, depending on the

ISO sensitivity. Therefore, be sure to set the ISO sensitivity correctly.

Notes on setting the Speedlight’s ISO sensitivity

In the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode and Manual flash mode, there is no

direct connection between setting the ISO sensitivity on the Speedlight

and controlling the flash output level. Setting the ISO sensitivity is for

correctly displaying the flash shooting distance range or the shooting

distance indication on the Speedlight’s LCD panel.

In the Non-TTL auto flash mode and Auto Aperture flash mode, the correct

exposure can be obtained by setting the camera’s ISO sensitivity on the

Speedlight, because the Speedlight controls the flash output. In the Auto

Aperture flash mode, the ISO sensitivity is automatically transferred from

the camera to the Speedlight.

5Adjust the zoom-head position

lThe power zoom function

mWhen the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups I, II, or Nikon Digital SLRs,

in combination with a CPU lens, the power zoom function activates and the

zoom head is automatically adjusted.

nThe zoom-head position is automatically adjusted within the range of 24mm, 28mm,

35mm to 105mm in increments of 5mm between 35mm and 105mm when the power

zoom function is activated.

nWhen the lens focal length is not one of those indicated above, the zoom head adjusts to

the closest wideangle setting of the lens in use. For example, if the zoom setting of a CPU

lens is between 36mm and 39mm, the zoom-head position is adjusted to 35mm.

nIf a small Mdoes not appear above the “ZOOM” indication on the LCD panel, the zoom-

head position will be automatically adjusted. If a small Mappears, press the cor d

button several times until it disappears.

Power zoom activated Power zoom canceled

lSetting the zoom-head position manually

mWhen the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups III to VII in combination

with a non-CPU lens, or you want to change the zoom-head position to one

that does not match the focal length, you should adjust the zoom-head

position manually.

nPress the cbutton to move toward a wideangle setting and the dbutton to move

toward a telephoto setting.

nWhen the camera/lens combination is compatible with the power zoom function, the

zoom-head position changes as follows, when a 35mm lens is attached:

M24mm↔M28mm↔35mm↔M50mm↔M70mm↔M85mm↔M105mm

1The zoom-head position is indicated on

the LCD panel.

nThe zoom-head position is automatically

adjusted by the power zoom function or it can

be manually adjusted.

nThe guide number indicating flash output level

varies according to the zoom-head position

(p. 45).

Basic operation

nA small M above the “ZOOM” indication appears on the LCD panel while manually setting

the zoom-head position.

nGenerally, set the zoom-head position to the focal length of the lens in use or to the

closest wideangle setting.

For example, select the 50mm setting when using a 60mm lens.

lCanceling the power zoom function using Custom settings

mWhen the power zoom function is canceled in the Custom settings mode

(p. 12), the small M blinks and the zoom-head position indicator does not

change even if the lens is zoomed, a lens is changed, or the bbutton is

pressed.

mThe zoom head can manually be adjusted to 24mm, 28mm, 35mm, 50mm,

70mm, 85mm, or 105mm by pressing the cor dbutton.

nPress the cbutton to move toward a wideangle setting and the dbutton to move

toward a telephoto setting. The zoom-head position changes as follows:

24mm↔28mm↔35mm↔50mm↔70mm↔85mm↔105mm

1 Press the gbutton for more than 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode.

2 Press the eor fbutton to choose “Canceling the power zoom function.”

3 Press the cor dbutton to select “ON.”

4Press the gbutton for more than 2 sec. or press the bbutton to return

to the normal setting mode.

lUsing the built-in wide-flash adapter/

Nikon Diffusion Dome

mUse the built-in wide-flash adapter when a 14mm to 23mm lens is mounted (p. 72).

nThe power zoom function becomes inactive when using the wide-flash adapter. Press the

cor dbutton to adjust the zoom-head position to 14mm or 17mm.

nThe zoom-head position is automatically set at 14mm when the Nikon Diffusion Dome is

attached.

nWhen using a 14mm or 17mm lens or the Nikon Diffusion Dome, the distance between

the camera and subject becomes increasingly pronounced from the center of the frame

to the periphery, so the peripheral area might not be sufficiently lit in some cases.

6Setting the camera’s exposure mode and

lExposure mode and metering system

mThe camera’s available exposure mode and metering system vary, depending

on the cameras and lenses in use or the SB-80DX’s flash modes. For details,

refer to “Detailed operation” (p. 33) and your camera’s instruction manual.

mIn Programmed Auto (P) mode, the shutter speed is automatically set to the

highest flash sync shutter speed.

1Set the camera’s exposure mode to

Programmed Auto (P).

nIf Programmed Auto (P) cannot be set, refer to

page 27 to select another exposure mode.

2Set the camera’s metering system to

Matrix Metering Y.

nIf Matrix Metering Ycannot be set, select

Center-Weighted Metering W.

Basic operation

metering system

lExposure modes other than Programmed Auto exposure (P)

In Shutter-Priority Auto exposure (S) mode

mBy selecting a slower shutter speed, the proper exposure for the background

can be achieved.

nThe camera selects the correct aperture. Set the shutter speed on the camera after

confirming that the automatically controlled aperture will provide an appropriate shooting

distance range for your subject. Refer to “Flash shooting distance range in the TTL/D-TTL

auto flash modes” (p. 29).

nIf you set a shutter speed faster than the flash sync speed, the camera automatically

shifts to its fastest sync speed when the SB-80DX is turned on.

In Aperture-Priority Auto exposure (A) mode

mBy selecting the aperture, you can control depth of field and the flash

shooting distance range.

nThe camera selects the correct shutter speed. For detains, see your camera’s instruction

manual.

nTo determine the aperture, refer to the guide number (p. 45) and the “Flash shooting

distance range in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash modes” (p. 29).

In Manual exposure (M) mode

mBy selecting the shutter speed and aperture, you can control the exposure of

the background, the depth of field, and flash shooting distance range.

nIf you set a shutter speed faster than the flash sync speed, the camera automatically

shifts to its fastest sync speed when the SB-80DX is turned on. This is true of all cameras,

except mechanical shutter cameras.

nTo determine the aperture, refer to the “Guide number” (p. 45) and the “Flash shooting

distance range in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash modes” (p. 29).

lTTL/D-TTL auto flash mode (p. 35)

mEvery time you press the MODE button, the flash mode changes. In the TTL

auto flash mode, the Dindicator appears on the LCD panel.

mWhen using Nikon Digital SLRs cameras, D-TTL auto flash is activated and

CD appears on the LCD panel.

nNote that the usable flash modes only appear and vary, and the unavailable TTL/D-TTL

auto flash modes will be skipped and do not appear, when pressing the MODE button.

nThe SB-80DX’s available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use

or the camera’s exposure mode and metering system. Refer to “Detailed operation”

(p. 33) and your camera’s instruction manual.

7Setting the SB-80DX’s flash mode

➔DE

➔DF ➔ D➔ A➔ G➔GH

For film-based cameras

For Digital SLRs cameras

➔B

➔ A

➔CDE

➔CDF ➔ CD ➔ G➔ GH

1Press the abutton to set the flash

mode to TTL/D-TTL auto flash.

2Confirm that the main subject is within the

flash shooting distance range.

Basic operation

Aperture

Flash shooting distance range (m/ft.)

ISO sensitivity Zoom-head position (mm)

Flash shooting distance range in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash modes

∗1With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached and the wide-flash adapter in place

∗2 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached

∗3With the wide-flash adapter in place

∗4TTL/D-TTL auto flash operation is not possible at this ISO sensitivity.

For ISO 1000, use an aperture 2/3 of an f/stop smaller than the aperture for ISO 1600,

or 1/3 larger than the aperture for ISO 800.

∗5Programmed TTL Auto Flash with the F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004,

and F-301/N2000. (ISO 25 to ISO 400 for the F-401s/N4004s and F-401/N4004.)

lAbout the flash shooting distance range

nThe SB-80DX’s flash shooting distance range is 0.6m to 20m (2 to 66 ft.) and varies,

depending on the ISO sensitivity, zoom-head position and lens aperture in use.

1600

800 400 200 100

50 25

∗1∗214 17 24 28 35 50 70 85 105

∗4

2.8 2 1.4

4 2.8 2 1.4

5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4

8 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4

11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4

11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2

22 16 11 8 5.6 4 2.8

32 22 16 11 8 5.6 4

32 22 16 11 8 5.6

32 22 16 11 8

32 22 16 11

32 22 16

0.8-9.0/ 1.0-11/ 1.1-12/ 1.2-13/ 2.0-20/ 2.1-20/ 2.4-20/ 2.8-20/ 3.0-20/ 3.4-20/ 3.6-20/

2.6-29 3.3-37 3.5-39 3.9-44 6.6-66 7.0-66 7.8-66 9.3-66 10-66 11-66 12-66

0.6-6.3/ 0.7-8.0/ 0.7-8.5/ 0.8-9.5/ 1.4-16/ 1.5-17/ 1.7-19/ 2.0-20/ 2.2-20/ 2.4-20/ 2.5-20/

2.0-21 2.3-26 2.5-28 2.8-31 4.6-52 4.9-56 5.5-62 6.6-66 7.4-66 7.8-66 8.3-66

0.6-4.5/ 0.6-5.7/ 0.6-6.0/ 0.6-6.7/ 1.0-11/ 1.1-12/ 1.2-13/ 1.4-16/ 1.6-18/ 1.7-19/ 1.8-20/

2.0-15 2.0-19 2.0-20 2.0-22 3.3-37 3.5-39 3.9-44 4.6-52 5.2-59 5.5-62 5.8-66

0.6-3.2/ 0.6-4.0/ 0.6-4.2/ 0.6-4.8/ 0.7-8.0/ 0.7-8.5/ 0.8-9.5/ 1.0-11/ 1.1-13/ 1.2-13/ 1.3-14/

2.0-10 2.0-13 2.0-14 2.0-16 2.3-26 2.5-28 2.8-31 3.3-37 3.7-42 3.9-44 4.1-47

0.6-2.2/ 0.6-2.8/ 0.6-3.0/ 0.6-3.4/ 0.6-5.7/ 0.6-6.0/ 0.6-6.7/ 0.7-7.6/ 0.8-9.0/ 0.8-9.5/ 0.9-10/

2.0-7.4 2.0-9.3 2.0-10 2.0-11 2.0-19 2.0-20 2.0-22 2.3-26 2.6-29 2.8-31 2.9-33

0.6-1.6/ 0.6-2.0/ 0.6-2.1/ 0.6-2.4/ 0.6-4.0/ 0.6-4.2/ 0.6-4.8/ 0.6-5.3/ 0.6-6.3/ 0.6-6.7/ 0.6-7.1/

2.0-5.2 2.0-6.6 2.0-7.0 2.0-7.8 2.0-13 2.0-14 2.0-16 2.0-19 2.0-21 2.0-22 2.1-23

0.6-1.1/ 0.6-1.4/ 0.6-1.5/ 0.6-1.7/ 0.6-2.8/ 0.6-3.0/ 0.6-3.4/ 0.6-4.0/ 0.6-4.5/ 0.6-4.8/ 0.6-5.0/

2.0-3.7 2.0-4.6 2.0-4.9 2.0-5.5 2.0-9.3 2.0-10 2.0-11 2.0-13 2.0-15 2.0-16 2.0-17

0.6-0.8/ 0.6-1.0/ 0.6-1.1/ 0.6-1.2/ 0.6-2.0/ 0.6-2.1/ 0.6-2.4/ 0.6-2.8/ 0.6-3.2/ 0.6-3.4/ 0.6-3.6/

2.0-2.6 2.0-3.3 2.0-3.5 2.0-3.9 2.0-6.6 2.0-7.0 2.0-7.8 2.0-9.3 2.0-10 2.0-11 2.0-12

_0.6-0.7/ 0.6-0.7/ 0.6-0.8/ 0.6-1.4/ 0.6-1.5/ 0.6-1.7/ 0.6-2.0/ 0.6-2.2/ 0.6-2.4/ 0.6-2.5/

2.0-2.3 2.0-2.5 2.0-2.8 2.0-4.6 2.0-4.9 2.0-5.5 2.0-6.6 2.0-7.4 2.0-7.8 2.0-8.3

____

0.6-1.0/ 0.6-1.1/ 0.6-1.2/ 0.6-1.4/ 0.6-1.6/ 0.6-1.7/ 0.6-1.8/

2.0-3.3 2.0-3.5 2.0-3.9 2.0-4.6 2.0-5.2 2.0-5.5 2.0-5.8

∗

8Compose the picture and shoot with flash

lSet the camera’s flash sync mode to Front-curtain sync.

mSet the camera’s flash sync mode to Front-curtain sync with cameras

featuring a Rear-curtain sync flash mode.

nFor other flash sync modes, refer to “Slow-sync flash mode” (p. 60), “Red-eye reduction

with slow-sync flash mode” (p. 60), or “Rear-curtain sync flash” (p. 61).

nRefer to the camera’s instruction manual for details on the flash sync mode.

1Set the camera’s sync mode.

nIn normal flash photography, set the camera’s

flash sync mode to Front-curtain sync.

2Compose the picture, confirm that the ready-

light on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel or in the

camera’s viewfinder is on, then shoot.

Basic operation

lIf the ready-light blinks after shooting, the light might

be insufficient.

mIn various auto flash modes, when the flash has fired at its maximum output

and underexposure may have occurred, the ready-lights on the SB-80DX and

in the camera’s viewfinder blink for approx. 3 sec. Depending on the camera

in use, the ready-light on the SB-80DX or in the camera’s viewfinder lights up.

To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and

reshoot.

Display of the amount of underexposure

mWith cameras in Group I and Nikon Digital SLRs cameras in the TTL/D-TTL

auto flash mode, the amount of underexposure (0 to –3.0 EV) appears for

approx. 3 sec on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel; at the same time the ready-lights

blink.

nPressing the aand gbuttons simultaneously recalls this display.

COOLPIX 900 series (COOLPIX 995, etc.) and COOLPIX 5000

digital cameras have a built-in compact flash unit. When more

powerful illumination is required, or when performing multiple

flash, connecting the SB-80DX or another Nikon Speedlight to

the COOLPIX using cords is recommended as an external

flash unit.

Auto flash operation is possible by setting the SB-80DX’s flash

mode to the TTL auto flash mode. The flash output level is

controlled by detecting signals from the camera to determine

when to start and stop firing in sync with the built-in flash,

which is controlled by the camera’s Non-TTL auto flash

operation.

nUse the dedicated Multi-Flash Bracket Unit SK-E900 (optional) and

Multi-Flash Adapter AS-E900 (optional) for connection with all the

COOLPIX 900 series cameras except the COOLPIX 900 itself.

nFor connection to the COOLPIX 5000, attach the Speedlight directly

to the accessory shoe.

Using the SB-80DX with the COOLPIX

Please note that wireless multiple flash using the COOLPIX’s

built-in flash as a master flash unit and the SB-80DX as a

slave flash unit cannot be performed.

Detailed operation

This section provides a variety of flash

modes available with the SB-80DX.

Be sure to refer to your camera’s instruction

manual for specific information on camera

settings and functions.

Detailed operation

SB-80DX available flash modes

∗1Monitor Preflashes are fired.

∗23D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash are generally

referred to as Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor (Automatic Balanced

Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor for Digital SLRs in D-TTL auto flash).

∗3The TTL auto flash mode for Nikon Digital SLRs is called the D-TTL auto flash mode.

∗4In the D-TTL auto flash mode, Monitor Preflashes are fired at all times.

The SB-80DX’s available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras

and lenses in use or the camera’s exposure mode.

TTL auto flash mode (p. 35)

D-TTL auto flash mode (p. 35) ∗3∗4

ANon-TTL auto flash mode (p. 40)

BAuto Aperture flash mode (p. 42)

Manual mode

DE 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced

Fill-Flash ∗1∗2

DE Multi-Sensor Balanced

Fill-Flash ∗1∗2

DF Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash

DF Center-Weighted

Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash

DStandard TTL Flash

GManual Flash (p. 46)

HRepeating Flash (p. 48)

KFP High-Speed Flash Sync

(p. 51)

CDE 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced

Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs ∗1∗2

CDE Multi-Sensor Balanced

Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs∗1∗2

CDF Center-Weighted Fill-

Flash for Digital SLRs∗1

CD Standard TTL Flash for

Digital SLRs∗1

(for film-based SLRs cameras)

(for Digital SLRs cameras)

Detailed operation

TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode

The SB-80DX’s TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode varies, depending on the cameras

and lenses in use or the camera’s exposure mode and metering system. For

details, refer to “Usable cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL auto flash

mode” (p. 36) and your camera’s instruction manual.

DE3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash/

CDE3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs

Information obtained by the Monitor Preflashes, exposure control information,

and distance information from a D- or G-type lens are integrated to

automatically adjust the flash output level to obtain a well-balanced exposure of

the main subject and background.

DE Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash/

CDE Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs

Information obtained by the Monitor Preflashes and exposure control

information is integrated to automatically adjust the flash output level for a

well-balanced exposure of the main subject and background.

DF Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash

Exposure control information obtained by the camera’s Matrix meter is used to

automatically adjust the flash output level for a well-balanced exposure of

the main subject and background.

DF Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash

Exposure control information with Center-Weighted or Spot Metering is used to

adjust the flash output for a natural fill-flash effect.

CDF Center-Weighted Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs

Exposure control information with Center-Weighted Metering is used to adjust

the flash output for a natural fill-flash effect.

DStandard TTL Flash/CDStandard TTL Flash for Digital SLRs

The main subject is correctly exposed regardless of the background

brightness. Useful when you want to highlight the main subject.

lBalancing the exposure for the main subject and background

mThe degree of exposure balance for the main subject and the background varies as the type of TTL auto

flash mode changes. The most well-balanced TTL auto flash exposure is obtained when using 3D

Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and decreases through Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, Matrix

Balanced Fill-Flash, Center-Weighted/Spot Fill-Flash, down to Standard TTL Flash in that order.

mThe above description is applicable to the D-TTL auto flash mode.

lMonitor Preflashes

mMonitor Preflashes are available in Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor and all flash

modes in D-TTL auto flash to determine the condition of the subject. After you press the shutter release

button and just before the shutter opens, the SB-80DX fires a series of imperceptible preflashes that are

detected by the camera’s TTL Multi-Sensor and analyzed for brightness and contrast. (Please note that

Monitor Preflashes are fired instantaneously and cannot be differentiated from the main flash.)

mTo cancel Monitor Preflashes, see page 74.

Usable cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL

Exposure mode

P: Programmed Auto

S: Shutter-Priority Auto

A: Aperture-Priority Auto

M: Manual

Metering system

Y: Matrix

W: Center-Weighted

X: Spot

The available types of TTL/D-TTL auto flash vary, depending on the

camera/lens/exposure mode/metering system being used. For details,

see the tables on the following pages.

nRefer to your camera’s instruction manual for specific information on camera

settings and functions.

Cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode

Camera TTL/D-TTL Exposure Metering Lens

auto flash mode mode system

DE∗2

P/S/A/M

CPU lens (D/G-type)

F100

DE∗3

P/S/A/M

CPU lens (except for D/G-type)

A/M

Non-CPU lens

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens

A/M

Non-CPU lens

F90X/N90s

DE∗2

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens (D/G-type)

∗1

F90-Series/

DE∗3

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens (except for D/G-type)

N90

A/M

Non-CPU lens

F70-Series/

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens

∗1

N70

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗

1: The A and M exposure modes cannot be used with a G-type lens.

∗

2: 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash is set.

∗

3: Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash is set.

F80-Series/

DE∗2

P/S/A/M

CPU lens (D/G-type)

N80-Series

DE∗3

P/S/A/M

CPU lens (Non-D/G-type AF)

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens

Non-CPU lens

∗1

∗1: The camera’s exposure meter cannot be used. Set the aperture using the lens aperture ring.

∗2: 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash is set. ∗3: Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash is set.

Camera

Group

TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode

DE :Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with

TTL Multi Sensor

DF :Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash, Center-

Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash

D:Standard TTL Flash

CDE :Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with

TTL Multi Sensor for Digital SLRs

CDF:Center-Weighted Fill-Flash for Digital

SLRs

CD :Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLRs

Detailed operation

auto flash mode

Camera TTL/D-TTL Exposure Metering Lens

auto flash mode mode system

F4-Series

P/S/A/M

CPU lens

∗1

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗2

DF∗3

P/S/A/M

CPU lens

∗1

DF∗3

A/M

Non-CPU lens

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens

∗1

A/M

YWX

Non-CPU lens

∗

1: The A and M exposure modes cannot be used with a G-type lens.

∗

2: AI-S, AI, Series E lens only usable.

∗

3: Center-Weighted Fill-Flash is set.

F65-Series/

P/S/A

CPU lens

N65-Series

P/S/A/M

CPU lens

∗1

Non-CPU lens

∗2

∗

1: Center-Weighted Metering is automatically set when the exposure mode is set to M.

∗

The camera’s exposure meter cannot be used. Set the aperture using the lens aperture ring.

F-801s/

P/S/A/M

CPU lens

∗1

N8008s

DF∗3

P/S/A/M

CPU lens

∗1/∗2

F-801/

DF∗3

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗2

N8008

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens

∗1/∗2

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗2

∗

1: The A and M exposure modes cannot be used with a G-type lens.

∗

Spot Metering is not possible with the F-801/N8008.

∗

Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash is set.

Pronea

P/S/A

CPU lens

600i/6i

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens

Non

CPU lens

∗1

∗1: The camera’s exposure meter cannot be used. Set the aperture using the lens aperture ring.

F-601/

P/S/A/M

CPU lens (except for G-type)

∗1

N6006

P/S/A/M

CPU lens (except for G-type)

∗1

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗1

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens (except for G-type)

∗2

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗2

∗

1: Only Dappears on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash or Center-

Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash is selected when Fappears on the camera’s LCD panel.

∗

Center-Weighted Metering is automatically set when the exposure mode is set to M.

III

Camera

Group

Usable cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode

Camera TTL/D-TTL Exposure Metering Lens

auto flash mode mode system

F-601M/

P/S

CPU lens

∗1

N6000

P/S

CPU lens

∗1

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗1

P/S

CPU lens

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗

1: Only Dappears on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash or Center-

Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash is selected when Fappears on the camera’s LCD panel.

F60-Series/N60

D∗1

P/S/A

CPU lens

F50-Series/N50

D∗2

CPU/non-CPU lens

F-401x/N5005

F-501/N2020

D∗3

CPU

∗4

/non-CPU lens

∗5

F-301/N2000

A/M

CPU

∗4

/non-CPU lens

∗

1: Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash is set.

∗

2: Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash is set.

∗

3: Programmed TTL Auto Flash is set.

∗

4: G-type Nikkor lenses cannot be used. Nikkor lenses

for F3AF usable.

∗

5: AI-S, AI, Series E lenses only usable.

F-401s/N4004s

D∗2

P/S

CPU lens

F-401/N4004

CPU lens

∗1

Non-CPU lens

∗

1: Center-Weighted Metering is automatically set when the exposure mode is set to M.

∗

2: Programmed TTL Auto Flash is set.

FM3A

A/M

CPU (except G-type)/non-CPU lens

P/A/M

CPU (except G-type)/non-CPU lens

∗1

FE2

A/M

CPU (except G-type)/non-CPU lens

∗1

P/A/M

CPU (except G-type)/non-CPU lens

∗1

Nikonos V

A/M

CPU (except G-type)/non-CPU lens

∗1/∗2

F3-Series

A/M

CPU (except G-type)/non-CPU lens

∗3

∗

1: Standard TTL Flash is not possible if the shutter speed is set to M250 or B (bulb)

for the FA, FE2, and M90 for the FG and Nikonos V cameras.

∗

2: An optional sync cord for land use is required.

∗

3: Optional TTL Unit Coupler AS-17 is required.

III

Camera

Group

Digital data communication with the SB-80DX

When the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups I and II, and Nikon Digital

SLRs cameras listed in the table above, digital data communication is

performed. (p. 22)

Detailed operation

Camera TTL/D-TTL Exposure Metering Lens

auto flash mode mode system

D1-Series

CDE∗1

P/S/A/M

CPU lens (D/G-type)

D100

CDE∗2

P/S/A/M

CPU lens (except for D/G-type)

CDF

A/M

Non-CPU lens

P/S/A/M

YWX

CPU lens

A/M

Non-CPU lens

∗

1: 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs is set

∗

2: Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs is set

lFlash shooting distance range in the 1/300 TTL

High-Speed Flash sync mode (F5 only)

mThe farthest flash shooting distance cannot be read on the SB-80DX’s LCD

panel. In this case, use the guide number table and equation for calculating

this distance, according to each zoom-head position.

D (farthest flash shooting distance) = Guide number ÷ f/stop (aperture)

Guide number (m/ft.) in the 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync mode

∗

1 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached and the wide-flash adapter in place

∗

2 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached

∗

3 With the wide-flash adapter in place

nFor example, when shooting with an ISO sensitivity of 100, at a 35mm zoom-head position

and an aperture of f/5.6:

D = 14 ÷ 5.6 (f/stop) = 2.5 (in meters) (farthest flash shooting distance)

D = 46 ÷ 5.6 (f/stop) = 8.2 (in feet) (farthest flash shooting distance)

Digital

SLRs

ISO Zoom-head position (mm)

sensitivity

∗

214

∗

317

∗

324 28 35 50 70 85 105

2.5/8 3/10 3.5/11 3.5/11 5.5/18 6/20 7/23 8/26 9/30 9.5/31 10/33

3.6/12 4.3/14 5/16 5/16 7.8/26 8.5/28 9.9/32 11.4/37 12.8/42 13.5/44 14.2/47

100

5/16 6/20 7/23 7/23 11/36 12/39 14/46 16/52 18/59 19/62 20/66

200

7/23 8.4/28 9.8/32 9.8/32 15.4/51 16.8/55 19.6/64 22.4/73 25.2/83 26.6/87 28/92

400

10/33 12/39 14/46 14/46 22/72 24/79 28/92 32/105 36/118 38/125 40/131

800

14/46 16.8/55 19.6/64 19.6/64 30.8/101 33.6/110 39.2/129 44.8/147 50.4/165 53.2/174 56/184

Camera

Group

Any camera and lens combination. (For Digital SLRs, it is

possible only when a non-CPU lens is mounted.)

Non-TTL auto flash Amode

Usable cameras

and lenses

The SB-80DX’s built-in sensor measures the flash illumination reflected back

from the subject, automatically controlling the SB-80DX’s light output to give the

correct exposure. This allows you to make exposure compensation (p. 56)

easily by varying the aperture set on the camera or lens.

3Press the eor fbutton to change the

aperture, bringing the subject within the flash

shooting distance range.

1Set the camera

’

s exposure mode to Aperture-

Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M).

4Set the aperture that appears on the SB-80DX’s

LCD panel on the lens or camera.

5Set the camera to its highest flash sync shutter

speed.

nFor details, see the camera’s instruction manual.

2Press the abutton until “A”appears on the

LCD panel.

Detailed operation

6Compose the picture, make sure the ready-light

is on, then shoot.

nWhen the flash has fired at its maximum output and

underexposure may have occurred, the ready-light

on the SB-80DX blinks for approx. 3 sec. To

compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to

the subject and reshoot.

Aperture

Flash shooting distance range (m/ft)

ISO sensitivity Zoom-head position (mm)

Usable flash shooting distance ranges in Non-TTL auto flash and Auto

Aperture flash mode

lSetting the aperture in the Non-TTL auto flash Amode

mSet the aperture within the available range as shown in the table below.

nFor example, for an ISO sensitivity of 100, with the zoom-head position adjusted to 35mm,

and the subject at a distance of 5m (16.4 ft.), selecting apertures from f/2 to f/5.6 from the

table will give the correct exposure.

nTo set the aperture on Zoom-Nikkor lenses having variable maximum apertures, refer to

“The flash shooting distance range with zoom lenses having a variable aperture” (p. 59).

∗

1 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached and the wide-flash adapter in place

∗

2 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached

∗

3 With the wide-flash adapter in place

1600 800 400 200 100 50 25

∗

14 17 24 28 35 50 70 85 105

85.642.8 2 1.4 0.6-6.3/ 0.7-8.0/ 0.7-8.5/ 0.8-9.5/ 1.4-16/ 1.5-17/ 1.7-19/ 2.0-20/ 2.2-20/ 2.4-20/ 2.5-20/

2.0-21 2.3-26 2.5-28 2.8-31 4.6-52 4.9-56 5.5-62 6.6-66 7.4-66 7.8-66 8.3-66

11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4 0.6-4.5/ 0.6-5.7/ 0.6-6.0/ 0.6-6.7/ 1.0-11/ 1.1-12/ 1.2-13/ 1.4-16/ 1.6-18/ 1.7-19/ 1.8-20/

2.0-15 2.0-19 2.0-20 2.0-22 3.3-37 3.5-39 3.9-44 4.6-52 5.2-59 5.5-62 5.8-66

16 11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 0.6-3.2/ 0.6-4.0/ 0.6-4.2/ 0.6-4.8/ 0.7-8.0/ 0.7-8.5/ 0.8-9.5/ 1.0-11/ 1.1-13/ 1.2-13/ 1.3-14/

2.0-10 2.0-13 2.0-14 2.0-16 2.3-26 2.5-28 2.8-31 3.3-37 3.7-42 3.9-44 4.1-47

22 16 11 8 5.6 4 2.8 0.6-2.2/ 0.6-2.8/ 0.6-3.0/ 0.6-3.4/ 0.6-5.7/ 0.6-6.0/ 0.6-6.7/ 0.7-7.6/ 0.8-9.0/ 0.8-9.5/ 0.9-10/

2.0-7.4 2.0-9.3 2.0-10 2.0-11 2.0-19 2.0-20 2.0-22 2.3-26 2.6-29 2.8-31 2.9-33

32 22 16 11 8 5.6 4 0.6-1.6/ 0.6-2.0/ 0.6-2.1/ 0.6-2.4/ 0.6-4.0/ 0.6-4.2/ 0.6-4.8/ 0.6-5.3/ 0.6-6.3/ 0.6-6.7/ 0.6-7.1/

2.0-5.2 2.0-6.6 2.0-7.0 2.0-7.8 2.0-13 2.0-14 2.0-16 2.0-19 2.0-21 2.0-22 2.1-23

45 32 22 16 11 8 5.6 0.6-1.1/ 0.6-1.4/ 0.6-1.5/ 0.6-1.7/ 0.6-2.8/ 0.6-3.0/ 0.6-3.4/ 0.6-4.0/ 0.6-4.5/ 0.6-4.8/ 0.6-5.0/

2.0-3.7 2.0-4.6 2.0-4.9 2.0-5.5 2.0-9.3 2.0-10 2.0-11 2.0-13 2.0-15 2.0-16 2.0-17

64 45 32 22 16 11 8 0.6-0.8/ 0.6-1.0/ 0.6-1.1/ 0.6-1.2/ 0.6-2.0/ 0.6-2.1/ 0.6-2.4/ 0.6-2.8/ 0.6-3.2/ 0.6-3.4/ 0.6-3.6/

2.0-2.6 2.0-3.3 2.0-3.5 2.0-3.9 2.0-6.6 2.0-7.0 2.0-7.8 2.0-9.3 2.0-10 2.0-11 2.0-12

∗

Digital SLRs + CPU lenses

Auto Aperture AA flash mode

In addition to Non-TTL auto flash (p. 40), the SB-80DX’s built-in sensor correctly

controls the flash output in combination with data automatically transmitted from

the camera and lens to the SB-80DX, including the ISO sensitivity value,

aperture, focal length, and exposure compensation value.

nThe Non-TTL auto flash mode is automatically set when a non-CPU lens is mounted on

Digital SLRs.

Usable cameras and lenses

1Set the camera’s exposure mode to Programmed

Auto (P) or Aperture-Priority Auto (A).

2Lock the CPU lens aperture at its minimum.

nNot necessary with a G-type lens.

3Press the abutton to select the AA (Auto

Aperture flash) mode.

4While looking at the flash shooting distance

range on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel, set the

aperture on the camera.

Detailed operation

5Compose the picture, confirm that the ready-light

is on, then shoot.

nWhen the flash has fired at its maximum output and

underexposure may have occurred, the ready-light

on the SB-80DX blinks for approx. 3 sec. To

compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to

the subject and reshoot.

lSetting the aperture in Auto Aperture AA flash mode

mSet the aperture on the camera or lens within the available range as shown in

the table below.

Usable flash shooting distance ranges in the Non-TTL auto flash and

Auto Aperture flash mode

nFor example, for an ISO sensitivity of 100, with the zoom-head position adjusted to 35mm,

and subject at a distance of 5m (16.4 ft.), selecting an aperture of f/2 to f/5.6 from the

table gives the correct exposure.