Pixapro Gio1 P Ttl Li-ion Round Head Camera Flash Instruction Manual

Pixapro Gio1 P Ttl Li-ion Round Head Camera Flash Instruction Manual

PiXAPRO LOGOPiXAPRO LOGO 2 TTL Li-ion Round Head Camera Flash
INSTRUCTION MANUALPiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash

GIO1 P TTL Li-Ion Round Head Camera Flash

Before using this product:
Please read this user manual carefully in order to ensure your safety and the proper operation of this product. Keep for future reference.

Foreword

Thank you for purchasing this product.
This GIO1 P camera flash applies to PENTAX series cameras and is compatible with TTL autoflash. With this TTL compatible flash, your shooting will become simpler. You can easily achieve a correct flash exposure even in complex light-changing environments. This camera flash features:

  • With round flash head to achieve soft, even and more creative light effects. It has a 2W LEDmodeling lamp, which can be used off the camera.
  • 76Ws power output at the max step. 81 steps from 1/1 to 1/128.
  • Pro 2 00mAh Li-ion Battery-6 max.1.5s recycle- full power pops. 480
  • Fully support PENTAX TTL camera flash. Workable as Transmitter or Receiver unit in a wireless flash group.
  • Use dot-matrix LCD panel to make clear and convenient operations.
  • With built-in 2.4GHz wireless remote system to support transmitting and receiving.
  • Provided multiple functions, include HSS (up to 1/8000s), FEC, FEB, etc.
  • Stable consistency and color temperature with good even lighting.
  • Support with firmware upgrade.

warning 4Warning

warning 4 Always keep this product dry. Do not use in rain or in damp conditions.
warning 4 Do not disassemble. Should repairs become necessary, this product must be sent to an authorized maintenance center.
warning 4 Keep out of reach of children.
warning 4 Stop using this product if it breaks open due to extrusion, falling or strong hit. Otherwise, electric shock may occur if you touch the electronic parts inside it.
warning 4 Do not fire the flash directly into the eyes (especially those of babies) within short distances. Otherwise visual impairment may occur.
warning 4 Do not use the flash unit in the presence of flammable gases, chemicals and other similar materials. In certain circumstance, these materials may be sensitive to the strong light emitting from this flash unit and fire or electromagnetic interference may result.
warning 4 Do not leave or store the flash unit if the ambient temperature reads over 50℃. Otherwise the electronic parts may be damaged.
warning 4 Turn off the flash unit immediately in the event of malfunction.
Conventions used in this Manual

  • This manual is based on the assumption that both the camera and camera flash’s power switches are powered on.
  • Reference page numbers are indicated by “p.**”.
  • The following alert symbols are used in this manual:
    warning 4 The Caution symbol gives supplemental information.
    PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1 The Note symbol indicates a warning to prevent shooting problem.

Name of Parts

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 1

● Body

01. Flash Head
02. LED Modeling Lamp(01~10)
03. Wireless Sensor
04. Focus Assist Beam
05. Sync Cord Jack
06. Type-C USB Port
07. Battery Remove Button
08. Hotshoe
09. LCD Panel
10. Hotshoe Fixing Buckle
11. Lithium Battery

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 2● Control Panel

12. <MENU>Flash Menu Button/Locking Button
13. <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 2>Wireless Selection Button
14. Select Dial
15. Set Button
16. ON/OFF Power Switch
17. <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 3> Test Button / Flash Ready Indicator
18. <ZOOM> Focus Length Setting
19. <MODE>Mode Selection Button
20. <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 4>Modeling Lamp Setting
21. <+/->Power Output
22. Function Button 1
23. Function Button 2
24. Function Button 3
25. Function Button 4

● LCD Panel
(1)TTL Autoflash

Zoom: zoom display (Page 23)

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 3

  • PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1The display will only show the settings currently applied.
  • The functions displayed above function buttons 1 to 4, such as SYNC and <M/A/B/C> , change according to settings’ status.
  • When a button or dial is operated, the LCD panel illuminated.

(2)M Manual Flash

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 4

(3) Multi Flash

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 5

(4) Radio Transmission Shooting
● Transmitter Unit (TX) 

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 6

● Receiver Unit (RX)

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 7

Note: The flash unit attached to the camera is referred to as the “Transmitter”, and other flash units controlled wirelessly are referred to as “Receivers”.
● LCD Panel in Three Modes

  • Attached to the CameraPiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 8
  • 2.4G Radio Transmission: As a Transmitter UnitPiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 9
  • 2.4G Radio Transmission: As a Receiver UnitPiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 10

● What’s in the Box of GIO1 P Kit?

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 11

  1. Flash Unit
  2. Lithium Battery
  3. USB Battery Charger
  4. USB Line
  5. Mini Stand
  6. Charger
  7. Protection Case
  8. Instruction Manual

● Separately Sold Accessories
The product can be used in combination with the following accessories sold separately, so as to achieve best photography effects:
ST-IV P & ST-III+ P TTL wireless flash trigger, AK-R1 accessory kit for round flash head, etc.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 12

Battery

● Features

  1. This flash unit uses Li-ion battery which has long runtime. The available charge-and-discharge times are 500.
  2. It is reliably safe. The inner circuit is against overcharge, overdischarge, overcurrent, and short circuit.
  3. Take only 3.5 hours to fully charge the battery by using the standard battery charger.

● Cautions

  1. Do not short circuit.
  2. Do not expose to rain or immerse into water. This battery is not water proof.
  3. Keep out of reach of children.
  4. No over 24 hours’ continuous charging.
  5. Store in dry, cool, ventilated places.
  6. Do not put aside or into fire.
  7. Dead batteries should be disposed according to local regulations.
  8. If the battery had ceased using for over 3 months, please make a full recharge.

● Loading and Unloading the Battery

  1. To unload the battery, hold down the battery remove button and push the battery downwardly to take it out.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 13
  2. According to the triangle sign on the battery pack, insert it into the compartment until a white knob locks the battery with a click sound.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 14

● Battery Level Indication
Make sure the battery pack is securely loaded in the flash. Check the battery level indication on the LCD panel to see the remaining battery level.

Battery Level IndicationMeaning
3 gridsFull
2 gridsMiddle
1 gridLow
Blank gridLower battery, please recharge it.
BlinkingThe battery level is going to be used out immediately. And the flash will auto power off in 1 minute.
Note: Please recharge the battery as soon as possible (within 10 days). Then, the battery can be used or be placed for long period.

LED Modeling Lamp

Press the Modeling Lamp Setting button to set the modeling lamp.
Short press the Set Button to turn on or off the modeling lamp. When turning on the modeling lamp, press the MODEL button to control it.
IfPiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 5 is displayed by pressing MODEL button, the modeling lamp will be lit in firing. IfPiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 6 is displayed, the modeling lamp will be off in firing.
When turning the modeling lamp on, turn the select dial to set its brightness. There are 10 levels(01~10) for choice.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 15

Attaching to a Camera

  1. Attach the Camera Flash. Rotate the hotshoe fixing buckle to the left and insert the camera flash into the camera’s hotshoe.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 16
  2. Secure the Camera Flash. Rotate the hotshoe fixing buckle to the right until it locks up.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 17
  3. Detach the Camera Flash. Press the button and rotate the hotshoe fixing buckle to the left until it is loosened.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 18

Power Management

Use ON/OFF Power Switch to power the flash unit on or off. Turn off if it will not be used for an extended period of time. Setting as a transmitter flash, it will turn the power off automatically after a certain period (approx. 90 seconds) of idle use. Pressing the camera shutter halfway or pressing any flash button will wake up the flash unit. Setting as a receiver flash, it will enter sleep mode after a certain period (adjustable, 60 minutes by default) of idle use. Pressing any flash button will wake it up.
PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1 C.Fn
Disabling Auto Power Off function is recommended when the flash is used off camera. (C.Fn-STBY, Page 24)
C.Fn
ReceiverAuto Power Off Timer is set to 60 minutes by default. Another option “30 minutes” is available. (C.FnRX STBY, Page 24)

Flash Mode — TTL Autoflash

This flash has three flash modes: TTL, Manual (M), and Multi (Stroboscopic). In TTL mode, the camera and the flash will work together to calculate the correct exposure for the subject and the background. In this mode, multiple TTL functions are available: FEC, HSS, second curtain sync, modeling flash.
* Press < MODE > Mode Selection Button and three flash modes will display on the LCD panel one by one with each pressing.
TTL Mode
Press < MODE > Mode Selection Button to enter TTL mode. The LCD panel will display.

  • Press the camera release button halfway to focus. The aperture and effective flash range will be displayed in the viewfinder.
  • When the shutter button is fully pressed, the flash will fire a preflash that the camera will use to calculate exposure and flash output the instant before the photo is taken.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 7 FEC: Flash Exposure Compensation
With FEC function, this flash can adjust from -3 to +3 in 1/3rd stops.
It is useful in situations where minor adjusting of the TTL system is needed based on the environment.
Setting FEC:

  1. Press Function Button 2 Press the <+/-> button. The icon <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 7> and flash exposure compensation amount will be highlighted on the LCD panel.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 19
  2. Set the flash exposure compensation amount.
    ● Turn the Select Dial to set the amount.
    ● “0.3”means 1/3 step, “0.7”means 2/3 step.
    ● To cancel the flash exposure compensation, set the amount to “+0”.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 20
  3. Press Set Button again to confirm the setting.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 21

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 8High-Speed Sync
High Speed Sync (FP flash) enables the flash to synchronize with all camera shutter speeds. This is convenient when you want to use aperture priority for fill-flash portraits.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 22

  1. Press Function Button 2 <SYNC> so that <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 8> is displayed.
  2. Set the camera shutter.
  • PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1With high-speed sync, the faster the shutter speed, the shorter the effective flash range.
  • To return to normal flash, press <SYNC> button again. Then <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 8> will disappear.
  • Multi flash mode cannot be set in high-speed sync mode.
  • Over-temperature protection may be activated after 15 consecutive high-speed sync flashes.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 9 Second-Curtain Sync
With a slow shutter speed, you can create a light train following the subject. The flash fires right before the shutter closes.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 23

  1. Press function button 2 <SYNC> button so that <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 10> is displayed on the LCD panel.
  2. Set the camera shutter.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1Note: The second curtain sync function can only be achieved when the flash is attached on the camera (non transmitter mode).

M: Manual Flash

The flash output is adjustable from 1/1 full power to 1/256th power in 1/10th stop increments. To obtain a correct flash exposure, use a hand-held flash meter to determine the required flash output.

  1. Press < MODE > button so that < M > is displayed.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 24
  2. Press the <+/-> button and turn the Select Dial to choose a desired flash output amount.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 25
  3. Press Set Button again to confirm the setting.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 26

Optic S1 Secondary Unit Setting
In M manual flash mode, press <S1/S2> button so that this flash can function as an optic S1 secondary flash with optic sensor. With this function, the flash will fire synchronously when the main flash fires, the same effect as that by the use of radio triggers. This helps create multiple lighting effects.
Optic S2 Secondary Unit Setting
Press <S1/S2> button so that this flash can also function as an optic S2 secondary flash with optic sensor in M manual flash mode. This is useful when cameras have pre-flash function. With this function, the flash will ignore a single “preflash” from the main flash and will only fire in response to the second, actual flash from the main unit.
PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1S1 and S2 optic triggering is only available in M manual flash mode.

Multi: Stroboscopic Flash

With stroboscopic flash, a rapid series of flashes is fired. It can be used to capture a multiple images of a moving subject in a single photograph.
You can set the firing frequency (number of flashes per sec. expressed as Hz), the number of flashes, and the flash output.

  1. Press <MODE> button so that <Multi> is displayed.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 27
  2. Set the flash frequency and flash times.
    ● Press the Function Button 2 <Times> to select the flash times. Turn the Select Dial to set the number.
    ● Press the Function Button 3 <Hz> to select the flash frequency. Turn the Select Dial to set the number.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 28
  3. Press the <+/-> button and turn the Select Dial to choose a desired flash output.
    ● After you finish the setting, press Set Button and all the settings will be displayed.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 29

Calculating the Shutter Speed
During stroboscopic flash, the shutter remains open until the firing stops. Use the formula below to calculate the shutter speed and set it with the camera.
Number of Flashes / Flash Frequency = Shutter Speed
For example, if the number of flashes is 10 and the firing frequency is 5 Hz, the shutter speed should be at least 2 seconds.
warning 4To avoid overheating and deteriorating the flash head, do not use stroboscopic flash more than 10 times in succession. After 10 times, allow the camera flash to rest for at least 15 minutes. If you try to use the stroboscopic flash more than 10 times in succession, the firing might stop automatically to protect the flash head. If this happens, allow at least 15 minutes’ rest for the camera flash.

  • PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1Stroboscopic flash is most effective with a highly reflective subject against a dark background.
  • Using a tripod and a remote control is recommended.
  • A flash output of 1/1 and 1/2 cannot be set for stroboscopic flash.
  • Stroboscopic flash can be used with“buLb”.
  • If the number of flashes is displayed as “–”, the firing will continue until the shutter closes or the battery is exhausted. The number of flashes will be limited as shown by the following table.

Maximum Stroboscopic Flashes:

FlashHz output123456-78-9
1/48643322
1/814141210865
1/1630303020202010
1/3260606050504030
1/6490909080807060
1/1281001001001001009080
1/2561001001001001009080
Flash         Hz output1020-5060-100
1/4222
1/8444
1/16888
1/32201612
1/64503020
1/128704040
1/256704040

Wireless Flash Shooting: Radio (2.4G) Transmission

  • You can set up five receiver groups for TTL autoflash shooting. With TTL autoflash, you can easily create various lighting effects.
  • Any flash settings for the receiver units(auto flash, manual flash and stroboscopic flash) on the transmitter flash in TTL mode will be automatically sent to the receiver units. So the only thing you need to do is to set the transmitter unit for each receiver group without any operation for the receiver units at all during the shooting.
  • This flash can work in TTL /M /Multi/ OFF flash modes when set as a transmitter unit.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1Note:

  • Even with multiple receiver units, the X series flash trigger can control all of them via wireless.
  • In this user manual, “transmitter unit” refers to the camera flash on a camera and “receiver unit” will be controlled by the transmitter unit.

Positioning and Operation Range (Example of wireless flash shooting)

  • Autoflash Shooting with One Receiver Unit

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 30

  • PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1Use the supplied mini stand to position the receiver unit.
  • Before shooting, perform a test flash and test shooting.
  • The transmission distance might be shorter depending on the conditions such as positioning of receiver units, the surrounding environment and whether conditions.

Wireless Multiple Flash Shooting

You can divide the receiver units into two or three groups and perform TTL autoflash while changing the flash ratio (factor). In addition, you can set and shoot with a different flash mode for each firing group, for up to 5 groups.

  • Auto Shooting with Two Receiver GroupsPiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 31
  • Auto Shooting with Three Receiver GroupsPiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 32

1. Wireless Settings
You can switch between normal flash and wireless flash. For normal flash shooting, be sure to set the wireless setting to OFF.
Transmitter Unit Setting

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 33

Press <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 2> button so that <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 11> is displayed on the LCD panel.
Receiver Unit Setting

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 34

Press <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 2> button so that <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 11> or <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 12> are displayed on the LCD panel.
2. Group Mode Selection

  1. Short press the Function Button 1 and <M> group can be changed in OFF/TTL/M. Choose one of them as transmitter unit’s flash mode.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 35
  2. Short press the <MODE> button to gain Multi mode.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 36

3. Setting the Communication Channel
If there are other wireless flash systems nearby, you can change the channel IDs to prevent signal interference. The channel IDs of the transmitter unit and the receiver unit(s) must be set to the same.

  1. Press <MENU> Button to enter C.Fn CH setting. PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 37
  2. In C.Fn CH, turn the Select Dial to choose channel ID from 1 to 32.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 38
  3. Press the Set Button to confirm.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 39

4. Wireless ID Settings
Change the wireless channels and wireless ID to avoid interference for it can only be triggered after the wireless IDs and channels of the transmitter unit and the receiver unit are set to the same.Press the <MENU> button to enter C.Fn ID. Press the Set Button to choose OFF channel expansion shutdown, and choose any figure from 01 to 99.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 40

5. Scan the Spare Channel
To avoid the interference of using the same channel by others, this function can be used: enter the C.Fn settings and find the SCAN option. When setting it to START, it will scan from 1% to 100%. And the 8 spare channels will be displayed after the scan is completed.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 41

6. TTLFully Automatic Wireless Flash Shooting
Using Automatic Wireless Flash with a Single Receiver Unit

  1. Transmitter Unit Setting
    ● Attach a GIO1 P camera flash on the camera and set it as the transmitter unit.
    ● M/A/B/C can be set as TTL mode independently.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 42
  2. Receiver Unit Setting
    ● Set the GIO1 P that to be controlled as the wireless receiver unit.
    ● The receiver unit can be set as A/B/C/D/E.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 43
  3. Check the communication channel.
    ● If the transmitter unit and receiver unit(s) are set to a different channel, set them to the same channel. (Page 17)
  4. Position the camera and flashes.
    ● Position the camera and flashes as the picture shows. (Page 16)
  5. Check that the flash is ready.
    ● Check that the transmitter flash ready indicator is lightened.
  6. Check the flash operation.
    ● Press the transmitter unit’s Test Button <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 3>.
    ● Then, the receiver unit will fire. If not, adjust the receiver unit’s angle toward the transmitter unit and distance from the transmitter unit.

Using Automatic Wireless Flash with Multiple Receiver Units

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 44When stronger flash output or more convenient lighting operation is needed, increase the number of receiver units and set it as a single receiver unit.
To add receiver units, use the same steps as setting “automatic wireless flash with a single receiver unit”. Any flash group can be set (A/B/C/D/E).
When the number of receiver units is increased and the transmitter unit flash firing is ON, automatic control is implemented to make all groups of flashes fire the same flash output and ensure the total flash output up is to standard exposure.

  • PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1If the receiver unit’s auto power off function is workable, press the transmitter unit’s test button to power it on. Please note that test firing is unavailable during the camera’s regular metering time.
  • The effective time of receiver auto power off is changeable. (C.Fn-RX STBY Page 24)

Using Fully Automatic Wireless Flash
The FEC and other settings that set on the transmitter unit will also be appeared on the receiver unit automatically. The receiver unit does not need any operation. Use the following settings to make wireless flashes according to the same methods with normal flash shooting.

  • Flash Exposure Compensation (PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 13(Page 11)

About Transmitter Unit
Use two or more transmitter units. By preparing several cameras that with transmitter units flash attached, cameras can be changed in shooting while keeping the same lighting source (receiver unit).
7. M: Wireless Flash Shooting with Manual Flash
This describes wireless (multiple shooting) using manual flash. You can shoot with a different flash output setting for each receiver unit (firing group). Set all parameters on the transmitter unit.

  1. Setting the flash mode to <M>.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 45
  2. Setting flash output.1/2/3/4<M/A/B/C>
    ● Press Function Button 3 <Gr>. Turn the Select Dial to set the flash output of the groups. Press Set Button to confirm. PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 46
  3. Taking the picture.
    ● Each group fires at the set flash ratio.PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 47

Setting <M> Flash Mode
You can directly operate the receiver unit to manually set the manual flash or stroboscopic flash.

  1. Setting the receiver unit.
  2. Setting flash mode to <M>.
    ● Press <MODE> button so that <M> is displayed.
    ● Set the manual flash output. (Page 13)

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 48

8. Multi: Wireless Flash Shooting with Manual Flash
Setting <Multi> stroboscopic flash.

  • Press <MODE> button so that <Multi> is displayed.
  • Setting the stroboscopic flash. (Page 14)

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 49

Other Applications

Sync Triggering
The Sync Cord Jack is a Φ2.5mm plug. Insert a trigger plug here and the flash will be fired synchronously with the camera shutter.
Modeling Flash
If the camera has a depth-of-field preview button, pressing it will fire the flash continuously for 1 second. This is called modeling flash. It enables you to see the shadow effects on the subject and the lighting balance. You can fire the modeling flash during wireless or normal flash shooting.
warning 4To avoid overheating and deteriorating the flash head, do not fire the modeling flash for more than 10 consecutive times. If you fire the modeling flash 10 consecutive times, allow at least 10 minutes’ break for the camera flash.
Auto Focus Assist Beam
In poorly-lit or low-contrast shooting environments, the built-in auto focus assist beam will automatically light on to make it easier for autofocus. The beam will light up only when autofocus is difficult and get out as soon as the autofocus becomes correct.
If you want to turn off the auto focus assist beam, set the “AF” to “OFF” on the C.Fn settings.
PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1If you find the auto focus assist beam does not light up, this is because the camera has got a correct autofocus.

PositionEffective Range
Center0.6~10m / 2.0~32.8 feet
Periphery0.6~5m / 2.0~16.4 feet

Bounce Flash
By pointing the flash head toward a wall or ceiling, the flash will bounce off the surface before illuminating the subject. This can soften shadows behind the subject for a more natural-looking shot. This is called bounce flash.
To set the bounce direction, hold the flash head and turn it to a satisfying angle.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 50

  • PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1If the wall or ceiling is too far away, the bounced flash might be too weak and result in underexposure.
  • The wall or ceiling should be a plain, white color for high reflectance. If the bounce surface is not white, a color cast may appear in the picture.

ZOOM: Setting the Flash Coverage
The flash coverage can be set automatically or manually. It can be set to match the lens focal length from 19-69mm (APS format) or 28-105mm (135 format).
In Manual Zoom mode, press the <ZOOM> button.

  • Turn the Select Dial to change the flash coverage.
  • If <A> is displayed, the flash coverage will be set automatically.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 51

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1If you set the flash coverage manually, make sure it covers the lens focal length so that the picture will not have a dark periphery.
Low Battery Warning
If the battery power is low, <PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 14> will appear and blink on the LCD panel. Please replace the battery immediately.

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - FIGURE 52

C.Fn: Setting Custom Functions

The following table lists the available and unavailable custom functions of this flash.

C.Fn Custom Functions
Custom Function SignsFunctionSetting No.Settings & Description
m/ftDistance indicatormm
ftfeet
AFAF-assist beamONON
OFFOFF
STBYAuto sleep settingONON
OFFOFF
RX STBYReceiverauto power off timer60min60min
30min30min
SCANScan the spare channelOFFOFF
STARTStart to find the spare channel
CHChannel setting01-32Choose channels from 01-32
IDWireless IDOFFOff
01-99Choose any figure from 01-99
BEEPBeeperONON
OFFOFF
LIGHTBacklighting time12secOff in 12 sec.
OFFAlways off
ONAlways lighting
LCDLCD contrast ratio-3~+37 levels
ZOOMZOOM displayAPSAPS system
135135 system
  1. Press<MENU> Button until C.Fn menu is displayed. The “Ver x.x” in the top-right corner refers to the software version.
  2. Select the Custom Function No.
    ● Turn the Select Dial to select the Custom Function No.
  3. Change the Setting.
    ● Press Set Button and the Setting No. blinks.
    ● Turn the Select Dial to set the desired number. Pressing Set Button will confirm the settings.
    ● After you set the Custom Function and press <MENU> button, the camera will be ready to shoot.
  4. In the C.Fn states, long press the “Clear”button for 2 seconds until “OK”is displayed on the panel, which means the values in C.Fn can be reset.

Protection Function

1. Over-Temperature Protection

  • To avoid overheating and deteriorating the flash head, do not fire more than 30 continuous flashes in fast succession at 1/1 full power. After 30 continuous flashes, allow a rest time of at least 10 minutes.
  • If you fire more than 30 continuous flashes and then fire more flashes in short intervals, the inner over-temperature protection function may be activated and make the recycling time over 10 seconds. If this occurs, allow a rest time of about 10 minutes, and the flash unit will then return to normal.
  • When the over-temperature protection is started, PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 15is shown on the LCD display.

Number of flashes that will activate over-temperature protection:

Power Output LevelNumber of Flashes
1/130
1/2 +0.740
1/2 +0.350
1/260
1/4(+0.3,+0.7)100
1/8(+0.3,+0.7)200
1/16(+0.3,+0.7)300
1/32(+0.3,+0.7)500
1/64(+0.3,+0.7)1000
1/128(+0.3,+0.7)
1/256(+0.3,+0.7)

Number of flashes that will activate over-temperature protection in high-speed sync triggering mode:

Power OutputTimes
1/115
1/2(+0.3,+0.7)20
1/4(+0.3,+0.7)30
1/8(+0.3,+0.7)
1/16(+0.3,+0.7)40
1/32(+0.3,+0.7)
1/64(+0.3,+0.7)50
1/128(+0.3,+0.7)
1/256(+0.3,+0.7)

2. Other Protections
The system provides real-time protection to secure the device and your safety. The following lists prompts for your reference:

Prompts on LCD PanelMeaning
E1A failure occurs on the recycling system so that the flash cannot fire.
Please restart the flash unit. If the problem still exists, please send this product to a maintenance center.
E2The system gets excessive heat. Please allow a rest time of 10 minutes.
E3The voltage on two outlets of the flash tube is too high.
Please send this product to a maintenance center.
E9There are some errors occurred during the upgrading process. Please using the correct firmware upgrade method.

Technical Data

ModelGIO1 P
Compatible CamerasPENTAX cameras (TTL autoflash)
Power (1/1 output)76Ws
Flash Coverage28 to 105mm(135 system) /19 to 69mm(APS system)
• Auto zoom (Flash coverage set automatically to match the lens focal length and image size)
• Manual zoom
• Swinging/tilting flash head (bounce flash): 0 to 330° horizontally and -7° to 120° vertically
Flash Duration1/300 to 1/20000 seconds
Exposure Control
Exposure control systemTTL autoflash and manual flash
Flash Exposure Compensation(FEC)Manual. FEB: ±3 stops in 1/3 stop increments (Manual FEC and FEB can be combined.)
Sync modeHigh-speed sync (up to 1/8000 seconds), first-curtain sync, and second-curtain sync
Multi flashProvided (up to 100 times, 100Hz)
Wireless Flash
Wireless flash functionTransmitter, Receiver, Off
Transmitter groupsM, A, B, C
Controllable receiver groupsA, B, C, D, E (D/E group can be controlled by X series flash trigger)
Transmission range (approx.)100m
Channels32 (1~32)
ID01~99
Modeling flashFired with camera’s depth-of-field preview button
Auto Focus Assist Beam
Effective range (approx.)Center: 0.6~10m / 2.0~32.8 feet
Periphery: 0.6~5m / 2.0~16.4 feet
• LED Modeling Lamp
Power2W
Color Temperature3300K±200K
Power Supply
Power source7.2V/2600mAh Li-ion battery
Recycle timeApprox 1.5 seconds. Green LED indicator will light up when the flash is ready.
Full power flashesApprox. 480
Power savingPower off automatically after approx. 90 seconds of idle operation. (60 minutes if set as receiver)
Sync Triggering ModeHotshoe, 2.5mm sync line
Dimensions
W x H x D76*93*197mm
Weight without battery420g
Weight with battery530g
2.4G Wireless Frequency Range2413.0MHz-2464.5MHz
Max. Transmitting Power of 2.4G Wireless5dbm

Troubleshooting

If there is a problem, refer to this Troubleshooting Guide.
The Camera Flash does not fire.

  • The camera flash is not attached securely to the camera.
    →Attach the camera’s mounting foot securely to the camera.
  • The electrical contacts of the Camera Flash and camera are dirty.
    →Clean the contacts.

The power turns off by itself.

  • After 90 seconds of idle operation, auto power off took effect if the flash is set as transmitter.
    →Press the shutter button halfway or press any flash button to wake up.
  • After 60 minutes (or 30 minutes) of idle operation, the flash unit will enter sleep mode if it is set as receiver.
    →Press any flash button to wake up.

Auto zoom does not work.

  • The camera flash is not attached securely to the camera.
    →Attach the camera flash’s mounting foot to the camera.

The flash exposure is underexposed or overexposed.

  • You used high-speed sync.
    →With high-speed sync, the effective flash range will be shorter.

Make sure the subject is within the effective flash range displayed.

  • You used Manual Flash mode.
    →Set the flash mode to TTL or modify the flash output.

Photos have dark corners or only parts of the target subject are illuminated.

  • The focal length of lens exceeds the flash coverage.
    →Check the flash coverage you set. This flash unit has the flash coverage between 28 and 105mm or 19 to 69mm, which fits medium-format cameras.

Firmware Upgrade

  • The USB port is a Type-C USB socket. Type-C USB connection line is applicable.
  • As the firmware upgrade needs the support of PIXAPRO G3 software, please download and install the “PIXAPRO G3 firmware upgrade software” before upgrading. Then, choose the related firmware file.
  • As the product needs to do firmware upgrade, please refer to instruction manual of the newest electric version as final.

Compatible Camera Models

This flash unit can be used on the following PENTAX series camera models:

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 16

PiXAPRO GIO1 P TTL Li Ion Round Head Camera Flash - ICON 1This table only lists the tested camera models, not all PENTAX series cameras. For the compatibility of other camera models, a self-test is recommended. Rights to modify this table are retained.

Maintenance

  • Shut down the device immediately should abnormal operation be detected.
  • Avoid sudden impacts and the product should be dedusted regularly.
  • It is normal for the flash tube to be warm when in use. Avoid continuous flashes if unnecessary.
  • Maintenance of the flash must be performed by our authorized maintenance department which can provide original accessories.
  • This product, except consumables e.g. flash tube, is supported with a one-year warranty.
  • Unauthorized service will void the warranty.
  • If the product had failures or was wetted, do not use it until it is repaired by professionals.
  • Changes made to the specifications or designs may not be reflected in this manual.

FCC Warning
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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.

Any Changes or modifications 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:

  • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
  • Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
  • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
  • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

*RF warning:
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.
IC statement:
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s).
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

  1. this device may not cause interference, and
  2. this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

This equipment complies with Industry Canada radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.

PIXAPRO® LTD.
Unit 5 Sterling Park
Pedmore Road
Brierley Hill
West Midlands,
DY5 1TB
Tel: 0121 552 3113
Web: www.essentialphoto.co.uk
E-mail: [email protected]
Company Registration No. 07601334

References

Documents / Resouces

Download manual
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.


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