Olympus FL 50R User Manual

Electronic Flash  
FL-50R  
Instruction Manual  
Bounce up/down angle  
Bounce lock release  
indices gP. 22  
button gP. 9, 22  
Accessory shoe  
gP. 23  
Bounce left/right angle  
indices gP. 22  
MODE button  
gP. 12  
Control panel  
gP. 4  
ZOOM button gP. 21  
LIGHT button  
Press to light up the  
control panel for about  
15 sec.  
AUTO CHECK lamp  
gP. 12  
The control panel also  
lights under control  
by a digital camera  
with communication  
capability.  
Battery compartment  
cover gP. 7  
CHARGE lamp/TEST  
button gP. 11  
Dial A  
Dial B  
POWER button gP. 11  
Plate  
Belt  
Flash stand  
FLST-1  
Bounce adapter  
FLBA-1  
Reflector adapter  
FLRA-1  
Flash case  
Instruction manual  
Warranty card  
(this manual)  
3
EN  
Control panel  
Wide panel  
Super FP flash  
Flash control mode  
gP. 26  
gP. 18, 20  
gP. 13  
Firing angle  
(ZOOM)  
value  
gP. 21  
Close-up flash  
gP. 27  
FOUR THIRDS  
gP. 31  
Flash intensity  
control  
gP. 14  
Firing angle  
(ZOOM) mode  
gP. 21  
Aperture (F)  
gP. 16, 31,  
38, 47  
ISO sensitivity  
gP. 31, 47  
Feet  
gP. 31  
Setting display  
Guide number  
(GN)  
gP. 17, 39, 45  
Meter  
gP. 31  
Notes on this manual  
The indications on the control panel may differ from those shown in the illustration  
above depending on the setup of the electronic flash, the camera in use, and the  
shooting conditions.  
For example, the firing angle (ZOOM) can be displayed in either of the following modes.  
1 FOUR THIRDS.......Focal length of a Four Thirds System digital camera  
2 135.........................Focal length converted to an equivalent angle of view on a  
135 type (35 mm film) camera  
The text in this manual employs the [FOUR THIRDS] display mode and puts values in  
the [135] display mode inside parentheses, for example “(xx mm with the 135 type)”.  
For the selection of the display modes, refer to “Custom setup” (gP. 30).  
4
EN  
Table of contents  
Names of parts............................................................................... 2  
Flash..............................................................................................2  
Control panel .................................................................................4  
Basic shooting................................................................................ 7  
Loading batteries ...........................................................................7  
Attaching to the camera.................................................................9  
Turning on the electronic flash..................................................... 11  
Shooting.......................................................................................12  
Flash intensity control..................................................................14  
Other flash photography modes................................................... 16  
AUTO...........................................................................................16  
MANUAL......................................................................................17  
FP TTL AUTO ..............................................................................18  
FP MANUAL ................................................................................20  
Setting the firing angle (ZOOM)...................................................21  
Bounce shooting..........................................................................22  
Using the wide panel ...................................................................26  
Close-up flash..............................................................................27  
Various flash shooting methods...................................................28  
Custom setup ............................................................................... 30  
All reset......................................................................................... 32  
Wireless flash ............................................................................... 33  
Basic wireless photography ........................................................34  
About the placement of the electronic flash.................................36  
Picture shooting using a digital camera without communication  
capability................................................................. 38  
AUTO...........................................................................................38  
MANUAL......................................................................................39  
Slave flash ...................................................................................40  
Warning display list....................................................................... 41  
Q&A.............................................................................................. 42  
Optional accessories.................................................................... 44  
5
EN  
Guide number (GN) list................................................................. 45  
Light control range in AUTO mode ............................................... 47  
Continuous firing........................................................................... 48  
Safety precautions  
(Be sure to read and observe the following)........... 49  
Caution for usage environment .................................................... 53  
Specifications ............................................................................... 55  
6
EN  
Basic shooting  
Loading batteries  
The batteries are available separately. Always use one of the following  
battery combinations.  
AA (R6) alkaline batteries/AA (R6) NiMH batteries/  
AA (R6) lithium batteries/AA (R6) oxyride batteries/  
AA (R6) NiCd batteries  
: × 4  
Lithium battery packs (CR-V3 type) (Olympus LB-01) : × 2  
x Notes  
AA (R6) manganese batteries cannot be used.  
Do not mix old and new batteries or batteries of different types together.  
Carry spare batteries when traveling or when using the electronic flash in  
cold areas.  
1 Open the battery compartment cover.  
Battery compartment  
cover  
2 Insert the batteries with correct +/– polarity.  
AA (R6) batteries  
CR-V3  
3 Close the battery compartment cover.  
7
EN  
Flash interval and flash count  
Batteries used  
Flash interval  
Flash count  
AA (R6) alkaline batteries  
Approx. 6 sec.  
Approx. 150 times  
AA (R6) NiMH batteries  
(2,400 mAh)  
Approx. 4 sec.  
Approx. 200 times  
AA (R6) lithium batteries  
AA (R6) oxyride batteries  
CR-V3 lithium battery pack  
Approx. 6 sec.  
Approx. 5 sec.  
Approx. 5 sec.  
Approx. 200 times  
Approx. 170 times  
Approx. 220 times  
* Measurements obtained from in-house tests at Olympus. Actual figures may vary  
depending on shooting conditions.  
8
EN  
Attaching to the camera  
Confirm that both the camera and electronic flash are off.  
Attaching or removing the electronic flash while either the flash or the  
camera is on may result in malfunction.  
1 Pressing the bounce lock release  
Bounce  
lock release  
button  
button, place the light-emitting section in  
standard position (horizontal, front).  
2 Remove the hot shoe cover from the  
Hot shoe cover  
camera.  
Store the hot shoe cover in the pocket  
located on the inner side of the flash case.  
Lock pin  
3 Loosen the lock ring.  
If the lock pin is protruding, pull it back  
inside by turning the lock ring as far as it  
will go in the direction opposite to LOCK.  
x Notes  
Electric  
Do not apply excessive force to the lock  
pin.  
Lock ring  
contacts  
Do not touch the electric contacts with a  
finger or metallic object.  
Do not attach the electronic flash while  
the lock pin is protruding. Otherwise,  
malfunction may result.  
9
EN  
4 Slide the electronic flash all the way into  
the hot shoe until it stops with a click  
(1).  
5 Turn the lock ring as far as it will go in  
the direction of LOCK (2).  
2
1
How to remove  
1 Loosen the lock ring completely, then slide the electronic flash out  
of the hot shoe.  
2 Attach the hot shoe cover to the camera.  
Using with a camera not equipped with hot shoe  
If the camera has an external flash connector, connect the electronic flash using the  
flash bracket and bracket cable (optional).  
The electronic flash can be used as a wireless flash with cameras compatible with  
the Olympus wireless RC flash system. g “Wireless flash” (P.33)  
The electronic flash can be used as a slave flash with cameras equipped with the  
slave mode or manual flash mode. g “Slave flash” (P.40)  
10  
EN  
Turning on the electronic flash  
Turn on the electronic flash only after attaching to the camera. After  
turning on the electronic flash, be sure to check the remaining battery  
charge.  
AUTO CHECK lamp  
1 Press the POWER button.  
The control panel lights up and battery  
charging starts.  
Press the POWER button again to turn the  
electronic flash off.  
2 Verify that the CHARGE lamp lights up.  
Replace the batteries if the time it takes for  
the CHARGE lamp to light up exceeds the  
following values.  
Alkaline or oxyride batteries 30 sec. or more  
POWER  
NiMH or lithium batteries  
10 sec. or more  
button  
CHARGE lamp/  
TEST button  
If the CHARGE lamp and AUTO CHECK  
lamp blink alternately, it means that the  
battery capacity is running low. In this case,  
replace the batteries.  
Press the TEST button to test the flash  
activation.  
11  
EN  
Shooting  
Let’s try shooting pictures using the TTL AUTO mode. In TTL AUTO  
mode the flash intensity is controlled automatically according to the  
camera’s settings.  
Firing angle  
1 Set the camera’s shooting mode to P  
Displayed according to the  
(Program Auto).  
focal length of the lens.  
Flash control mode  
2 Press the MODE button of the electronic  
flash repeatedly to set the flash control  
mode to [TTL AUTO].  
MODE button  
3 Press the shutter button halfway.  
Shooting information will be communicated  
between the camera and the electronic  
flash and the light control range will be  
displayed on the control panel.  
If the subject is not within the light control  
range, adjust the distance to the subject.  
Light control  
range  
AUTO CHECK  
lamp  
The light control range will vary according  
to the camera’s setup (ISO sensitivity,  
aperture value and focal length of the lens).  
4 Press the shutter button fully.  
When flash activation has been performed  
correctly, the AUTO CHECK lamp blinks  
for about 5 seconds after the shutter is  
released.  
12  
EN  
Flash control modes  
Select the flash control mode according to the subject and the shooting  
conditions. Press the MODE button repeatedly to change the flash  
control mode.  
Control  
panel display  
Ref.  
page  
Control operation  
Main application  
The flash light intensity is  
controlled automatically  
Usually use this  
according to the camera’s setup. mode with a camera  
The flash will be adjusted based with communication  
P. 12  
on the brightness taken through  
the camera’s lens.  
capability.  
The flash light intensity is  
controlled automatically  
If the camera has  
communication  
according to the camera’s setup. capability, this mode  
The flash will be adjusted based can be used only  
P. 16  
P. 17  
on the brightness captured  
by auto light receptor on the  
electronic flash.  
when the camera  
is an AUTO-  
compatible model.  
In this mode, the flash is emitted  
according to the guide number  
setting.  
Shooting using  
manual flash.  
Super FP flash. This mode allows  
you to use flash photography  
even at shutter speeds faster  
than the flash synchronization  
speed of the camera. In AUTO  
mode the flash light intensity  
is controlled automatically. In  
MANUAL mode the flash is  
emitted according to the guide  
number selected.  
Outdoor shooting  
using flash, such as P. 18,  
fill-in flash shooting  
in the daytime.  
20  
x Notes  
Certain modes may be unavailable depending on the shooting mode set  
on the camera and the functions of the camera in use.  
It is not possible to select an unavailable mode.  
13  
EN  
Operation of the flash in each shooting mode  
Values and operation details in the table will vary depending on the  
camera. Refer to your camera’s instruction manual.  
Shooting  
mode  
Flash emission  
Shutter speed  
Aperture  
The camera sets  
the shutter speed  
automatically. At the  
shooting conditions  
that will trigger a flash aperture automatically.  
emission, shutter  
The camera sets the  
P
speed is fixed at 1/30  
or 1/60.  
The flash is emitted  
automatically when  
either backlight or  
a brightness level  
requiring flash is  
detected.  
The aperture will be  
set to the value you  
select.  
The camera sets  
the shutter speed  
automatically. At the  
shooting conditions  
Use the guide number  
and the light control  
range as a reference  
A
that will require slower when setting the  
shutter speeds, shutter aperture value.  
speed is fixed at 1/30  
or 1/60.  
g “Guide number  
(GN) list” (P. 45),  
“Light control range in  
AUTO mode” (P. 47)  
The flash will  
always be emitted  
at shutter speeds  
slower than the flash  
The camera sets the  
aperture automatically.  
S
The shutter speed will  
synchronization speed be set to the value you  
of the camera. The  
flash will always be  
emitted with Super FP  
flash.  
select.  
The aperture will be  
adjusted to the value  
you select.  
M
Flash intensity control  
The flash light intensity can be adjusted between +3 and -3.  
1 In the custom setup, set the flash intensity control to [on].  
g “Custom setup” (P. 30)  
The w indicator appears in the control panel.  
14  
EN  
Flash intensity control  
2 Turn dial B to select a flash intensity  
value.  
Turning the dial toward + will change the  
value as follows: 0+0.3+0.7+1.0...  
+3.0.  
Turning the dial toward – will change the  
value as follows: 0-0.3-0.7-1.0...  
-3.0.  
3 When the camera’s flash intensity  
control mode is set, the actual flash light  
intensity will be the total of the flash  
intensity value set on the electronic  
flash and that set on the camera.  
The flash intensity value displayed on the  
control panel is that of the electronic flash  
only.  
Flash intensity value  
(The light control range will  
not be displayed while an  
adjustment value is set.)  
e.g.)  
Selected  
adjustment  
value  
Adjustment value  
Actual flash  
displayed  
intensity value  
on the control panel  
Flash  
+0.3  
+0.3  
+0.3  
+0.6  
Camera  
x Notes  
In MANUAL and FP MANUAL mode settings on the camera will be  
ignored.  
15  
EN  
Other flash photography modes  
AUTO  
The flash light intensity is controlled automatically by measuring the  
amount of light through the auto light receptor. This mode uses the  
settings on the camera together with the settings on the electronic  
flash.  
Firing angle  
Displayed according  
to the focal length of  
1 The control panel shows the light control  
range according to the camera’s setup.  
the lens.  
The light control range is not displayed if  
the camera’s setup (ISO sensitivity and  
aperture value) does not match one of  
the usable ISO sensitivity/aperture value  
combinations. In this case, the [ISO] and  
[F] indicators blink to alert you. Change  
the camera’s setup (ISO sensitivity and/or  
aperture value). g “Light control range in  
AUTO mode” (P. 47)  
AUTO CHECK  
lamp  
Light control  
range  
2 When flash activation has been  
performed correctly, the AUTO CHECK  
lamp blinks for about 5 seconds after  
the shutter is released.  
Test flash activation  
Flash activation can be tested before actually releasing  
the shutter.  
Press the TEST button for test flash activation.  
If the AUTO CHECK lamp blinks for about 5 seconds after  
the test flash activation, the flash is adjusted correctly.  
If the lamp does not blink, change the aperture value, ISO  
sensitivity, subject distance, etc.  
TEST  
button  
Checking the light by means of test flash activation is  
possible only in AUTO mode.  
16  
EN  
MANUAL  
In this mode, the flash is emitted according to the guide number (GN)  
setting.  
Firing angle  
Displayed according to the  
focal length of the lens.  
1 Turn dial A or dial B to set the guide  
number.  
The control panel shows the guide number  
set and the optimum shooting distance  
according to the camera’s setup.  
2 If the distance to the subject does not  
match the optimum shooting distance,  
change the guide number or the  
distance to the subject.  
The optimum shooting distance varies  
according to the camera’s setup (ISO  
sensitivity, aperture value, lens focal  
distance and shutter speed). For  
Guide  
number  
Optimum shooting  
distance  
details refer to “Guide number (GN) list”  
(gP. 45).  
Optimum shooting distance  
When the ISO sensitivity is set to 100, you can calculate the optimum shooting distance  
by dividing the guide number (GN) by the aperture value (F). g “Guide number (GN)  
list” (P. 45)  
17  
EN  
FP TTL AUTO  
In this mode, the electronic flash uses Super FP flash to synchronize  
with high shutter speeds.  
The following operations are possible using Super FP flash.  
Attenuation of shades when shooting a backlit picture.  
Outdoor portrait shooting using daytime fill-in flash shooting with the  
aperture opened up to blur the background.  
Shooting against light  
Without flash  
With flash (FP TTL AUTO)  
Portrait shooting  
With aperture open  
With aperture adjusted  
18  
EN  
Mode  
1 The control panel shows the light control  
range according to the camera’s setup.  
Firing angle  
2 Confirm that the distance to the subject  
is within the light control range.  
If it is not within the light control range,  
change the distance to the subject or the  
camera’s setup.  
The light control range varies according  
to the camera’s setup (ISO sensitivity,  
aperture value, lens focal length and  
shutter speed).  
Light control  
range  
AUTO  
CHECK  
lamp  
3 When flash activation has been  
performed correctly, the AUTO CHECK  
lamp blinks for about 5 seconds after  
the shutter is released.  
x Notes  
With Super FP flash the highest guide number will be lower than in TTL  
AUTO mode. As a result, the light control range will be shortened.  
19  
EN  
FP MANUAL  
In this mode, Super FP flash is performed at the set flash intensity.  
Firing angle  
1 Turn dial A or dial B to set the guide  
Displayed according to the  
number.  
focal length of the lens.  
The control panel shows the guide number  
set and the optimum shooting distance  
according to the camera’s setup.  
2 If the distance to the subject does not  
match the optimum shooting distance,  
change the settings or the distance to  
the subject.  
The optimum shooting distance varies  
according to the camera’s setup (ISO  
sensitivity, aperture value, lens focal  
distance and shutter speed). For  
details refer to “Guide number (GN) list”  
(gP. 45).  
Guide  
number  
Optimum shooting  
distance  
Optimum shooting distance  
When the ISO sensitivity is set to 100, you can calculate the optimum shooting distance  
by dividing the guide number (GN) by the aperture value (F). g “Guide number (GN)  
list” (P. 45)  
20  
EN  
Setting the firing angle (ZOOM)  
The firing angle can be adjusted manually.  
1 Press the ZOOM button to adjust the  
firing angle.  
The [M ZOOM] indicator lights in the  
control panel.  
The firing angle can be set to one of 12,  
14, 17, 25, 35 and 42 mm (24, 28, 35, 50,  
70 and 85 mm with the 135 type).  
Each press of the ZOOM button switches  
the firing angle as follows.  
ZOOM button  
12  
14  
17  
25  
35  
42  
*
ZOOM  
(24) (28) (35) (50)  
(70) (85)  
When the wide panel is used  
g “Using the wide panel” (P. 26):  
10  
8
*
ZOOM  
(20) (16)  
* [ZOOM] (auto) can be selected only  
when the camera in use is equipped with  
the communication capability.  
x Notes  
Selecting a value larger than the focal length of the lens in use will darken  
the peripheral areas of the image.  
21  
EN  
Bounce shooting  
Bounce shooting refers to a method in which the light from the flash is  
bounced off the ceiling or walls.  
This allows the light to go all around the subject, resulting in a soft  
picture without harsh contrast or shadow.  
Shooting without bounce  
Shooting with bounce  
1 Pressing the bounce lock release  
°
90°  
button, turn the light-emitting section  
°
180  
up/down and left/right.  
You can turn it down: 7°  
°
g “Close-up flash” (P. 27)  
90°  
°
7
Bounce lock  
release button  
x Notes  
When the light-emitting section is at the bounce position, the light control  
range and optimum shooting distance are not displayed in the control  
panel.  
The color of the surface (ceiling and/or walls) off which the light is bounced  
will affect the pictures you take. Whenever possible, bounce the light off a  
neutral surface (white or very light grey will work best).  
The firing angle will be set automatically to 25 mm (50 mm with the 135  
type), and “- -” will be displayed on the control panel. You can press the  
ZOOM button to adjust the firing angle manually. g “Setting the firing  
angle (ZOOM)” (P. 21)  
22  
EN  
Using the bounce adapter  
When you attach the supplied bounce adapter, the light passes through  
it and is diffused even further, allowing for bounce shooting with an  
even softer light. Also, the light diffuses to a larger area attenuating any  
shadows on the subject and softening the picture.  
Groove  
1 Align the protrusion on the bounce  
Protrusion  
adapter to the groove on the electronic  
flash and insert until it clicks in place.  
Accessory shoe  
Shooting without bounce adapter  
Shooting with bounce adapter  
x Notes  
When the bounce adapter is attached, the guide number will be lower.  
23  
EN  
Using the reflector adapter  
When you use the supplied reflector adapter to shoot with bounce  
flash, you can divert part of the light toward the subject to reflect it off  
the subject. In this way you can achieve a catch-light effect — the light  
reflection on people’s eyes. You can also illuminate with the reflector  
light parts of the picture that might have been shaded because of the  
bounce flash.  
1 Pass the end with the mark of the reflector adapter’s belt through  
the plate (1) and insert the part of the belt into the plate (2).  
2
1
Plate  
Belt  
2 Align the flat surface of the plate with the electronic flash and wrap  
the belt around the flash (1). Insert the other end of the belt firmly  
into the plate (2).  
2
1
24  
EN  
Shooting with bounce alone  
Shooting with reflector adapter  
To achieve the catch-light effect, turn the  
light-emitting section directly up or directly  
sideways and aim the plate towards the  
subject.  
You can achieve different bounce effects depending on how you  
position the camera, the direction of the electronic flash, where you  
attach the reflector adapter, etc.  
Shooting with the camera  
positioned horizontally with the  
flash bouncing off the ceiling  
Shooting with the camera  
positioned vertically with the flash  
bouncing off the ceiling  
You can attach the plate to either side of the  
electronic flash.  
25  
EN  
Using the wide panel  
Use the built-in wide panel in flash shooting when the lens focal length  
is set to a position wider than 12 mm.  
1 When the lens focal length is shorter  
than 12 mm (24 mm with the 135 type),  
the wide panel warning indicator blinks  
in the control panel.  
This does not occur if the camera is not  
equipped with communication capability.  
Wide panel  
2 Slide out the wide panel and place it on  
the light-emitting area.  
The wide panel indicator lights up in the  
control panel.  
3 Press the ZOOM button to adjust the  
firing angle.  
ZOOM button  
The firing angle can be selected from 8 mm  
and 10 mm (16 mm and 20 mm with the  
135 type).  
When the wide panel is used, the guide  
number will be lower, and the available  
shooting range or the optimum shooting  
distance will be shortened.  
x Notes  
To prevent damage to the wide panel, do not  
flip it in the upward direction.  
If the wide panel is damaged when it is  
slid out, the ZOOM button will no longer be  
operable. If that happens, disable the wide  
panel switch to restore operability.  
g “Custom setup” (P. 30)  
26  
EN  
Close-up flash  
When the distance to the subject is between 0.5 m (1.6 ft.) and 1.5 m  
(4.9 ft.), the flash light emission area will not match the range included  
in the shot. In this case, point the flash to the down-most angle (7°)  
using the bounce lock release button.  
1 Pressing the bounce lock release  
button, tilt the light-emitting section to  
the down-most angle (7°). The close-up  
flash indicator lights in the control panel.  
(0.5 - 1.5 m)  
Close-up flash  
x Notes  
The flash light may be blocked when the lens is long or large in diameter.  
Be sure to perform test shooting.  
Do not use this function for any purpose other than close-up shooting. If  
it is used in normal shooting, there will be insufficient illumination for the  
upper half of the picture.  
27  
EN  
Various flash shooting methods  
The following flash shooting methods are possible according to the  
camera’s setup.  
Some flash shooting methods may be unavailable depending on the  
function and design of the camera.  
For details on how to use these modes, refer to the instruction  
manual for your camera.  
Red-eye reduction flash  
Reduces the appearance of red eyes due to flash emission.  
Slow synchronization  
The flash is emitted while the shutter is open for a longer time.  
Usually when the flash is emitted, the shutter speed is fixed. However  
in this mode, the shutter speed is extended depending on the  
brightness. You will be able to take great pictures of people in night or  
twilight scenes.  
28  
EN  
Second curtain synchronization  
A slow shutter is used and the flash is emitted immediately before the  
end of the exposure period.  
This makes it possible to take pictures of moving objects such as car  
taillights with a streaming effect.  
Combination with camera’s built-in flash  
When the camera in use has a built-in flash, it can be used  
simultaneously with the electronic flash.  
For example, you can bounce the light from the electronic flash off  
the wall or ceiling while using the camera’s built-in flash for a catch-  
light effect. Advanced shooting techniques are possible.  
With certain camera models, the built-in flash may be disabled when  
the electronic flash is attached to the camera’s hot shoe.  
x Notes  
The electronic flash control mode should be set to TTL AUTO or FP TTL  
AUTO.  
29  
EN  
Custom setup  
Custom setup allows you to customize the electronic flash to suit your  
preferences.  
MODE button  
1 Press and hold the MODE button for  
more than 2 seconds, until the setup  
mode display appears in the control  
panel.  
2 Turn dial A to select the setup mode.  
3 Turn dial B to select the value.  
4 Press the MODE button to confirm the  
setup.  
Dial B  
Dial A  
Value  
display  
Mode display  
Dial A  
Default  
value  
Setup mode  
Function  
Dial B  
AF illuminator is  
activated according  
to the control from  
the camera.  
AF illuminator  
A
AF illuminator is off.  
Use this setting  
when not using  
the flash cable  
(attaching to the  
hot shoe or using a  
clip-on).  
Flash cable  
on  
Use this setting  
when using the  
flash cable (off-flash  
cable).  
30  
EN  
Value  
display  
Mode display  
Dial A  
Default  
value  
Setup mode  
Function  
Dial B  
Firing angle is  
displayed in terms of  
the lens focal length  
of a FOUR THIRDS  
camera.  
Firing angle  
(ZOOM)  
display  
Firing angle is  
4-3  
converted into the  
focal distance of the  
135 type.  
This allows the flash  
to be used in the  
same feeling as the  
flash for a 135 type  
(35 mm film) camera.  
Distance is  
displayed in meter.  
Distance display  
unit  
m
Distance is  
displayed in feet.  
Flash intensity  
cannot be adjusted.  
Flash intensity  
control  
OFF  
Flash intensity can  
be adjusted.  
The wide panel  
switch is activated.  
Use this setting to  
detect that the wide  
panel has been  
slid out.  
Wide panel  
switch disabling  
The wide panel  
switch is deactivated.  
Use this setting  
on  
when the wide panel  
is damaged so as to  
be able to change  
the firing angle with  
the ZOOM button.  
The ISO sensitivity  
and aperture  
value setup will  
be adjusted  
ISO, F  
communication  
in AUTO mode  
Available  
automatically by the  
camera.  
only in AUTO  
mode, with  
cameras with  
communication  
capability.  
on  
You can adjust the  
ISO sensitivity and  
aperture value on  
the electronic flash.  
31  
EN  
All reset  
All reset resets the custom setups to the factory default settings.  
MODE button  
1 Press the MODE and LIGHT buttons  
simultaneously for 2 or more seconds to  
reset to default settings.  
The distance display unit (m/ft) is not  
altered by the all reset operation.  
LIGHT button  
32  
EN  
Wireless flash  
This flash is compatible with the Olympus wireless RC flash system.  
Using the electronic flash with an Olympus digital camera that is also  
compatible with this system, gives you wireless remote control over  
the flash emission. The flash mode and other controls are set on the  
camera and it controls the electronic flash automatically.  
You can also combine several flashes to create a multiple flash array.  
To find out if your camera is compatible with this system, refer to the  
camera’s instruction manual.  
In wireless photography mode, the camera controls the electronic flash  
through a light communication system with the camera’s built-in flash.  
Adjust the following settings on the camera and the electronic flash in  
advance.  
RC mode:  
This is the wireless mode. Set both the camera and the electronic  
flash to RC mode.  
Channel:  
Changes the channel so the camera will not receive mistaken  
signals from other Olympus wireless RC flash systems operating  
nearby. Select a channel between 1 and 4 and set the same  
channel on the camera and the electronic flash.  
Group:  
You can control remotely up to three groups (A, B, C) of flash  
arrays with different flash modes and other settings. On the  
electronic flash set in advance the group with which the flash will be  
emitted.  
33  
EN  
Basic wireless photography  
This function will be explained using an example of the electronic flash  
used together with an Olympus digital SLR camera E-3. Refer to the  
camera’s instruction manual for details on the setup range of flash and  
the operations on the camera.  
MODE button  
1 Place the camera and the electronic  
flash. g “About the placement of the  
electronic flash” (P. 36)  
2 Press the MODE button of the electronic  
flash repeatedly to set the flash control  
mode to RC mode.  
RC mode  
3 Set [#RC MODE] on the camera to [ON] and set the camera’s  
built-in flash to a condition that it can be emitted.  
Set the flash mode and the flash intensity on the camera.  
Flash intensity  
Normal flash/Super FP  
value  
flash  
Group  
Switch between  
normal flash and  
Super FP flash.  
Select the flash mode  
and adjust the flash  
intensity individually for  
groups A, B, and C. For  
MANUAL mode, select  
the flash intensity.  
2007. 12.16  
TTL  
M
+1.0  
1 / 8  
Communication light  
level  
Set the  
LO  
2
OFF  
communication light  
level to [HI], [MID], or  
[LO].  
Flash control  
mode  
Channel  
Set the  
Flash intensity  
communication  
channel to the same  
channel used on the  
electronic flash.  
34  
EN  
Channel  
Group  
4 Turn dial A on the electronic flash to  
select the channel and group.  
5 After shooting preparations are  
completed, take some test shots to  
check the flash operation and images.  
6 Begin shooting while checking the charging completed indications  
of the camera and the electronic flash.  
The charge condition of the electronic flash is not communicated to the  
camera. Shoot the picture only after checking that the CHARGE lamp at  
the back of the electronic flash is on, or that the AF illuminator part at the  
front of the electronic flash is blinking.  
When the camera’s flash intensity control mode is set, the actual flash light  
intensity will be the total of the flash intensity value set on the electronic  
flash and that set on the camera.  
x Notes  
The firing angle of the flash cannot be controlled automatically so be sure  
to check it beforehand. Pressing the ZOOM button on the electronic flash  
once will display the firing angle for about 2 seconds. You can change the  
firing angle by pressing ZOOM button again while the current firing angle  
is displayed. Verify whether the firing angle setting is appropriate or not by  
performing a test shot.  
When shooting using 2nd curtain synchronization, set the shutter speed  
up to 4 seconds since the flash will be emitted automatically after about 5  
seconds.  
In RC mode the built-in flash of the camera is used to send the remote  
control signal and therefore cannot be used as a flash.  
35  
EN  
About the placement of the electronic flash  
The remote control signal is sent using the built-in flash of the camera  
so the maximum range for the placement of the electronic flash will  
vary depending on the camera. For details, refer to the camera’s  
instruction manual.  
1 Attach the flash stand to the camera.  
Slide the electronic flash all the way into  
the flash stand until it stops with a click.  
If the lock pin is protruding, pull it back  
inside by turning the lock ring as far as it  
will go in the direction opposite to LOCK.  
You can also fix the flash stand on a tripod.  
2 Place the electronic flash so that the remote sensor is facing the  
camera, and turn the light-emitting section in the direction of the  
subject you want to shoot.  
Placement examples: Placement of a single flash  
Direction  
of the flash  
Remote sensor  
emission  
30°  
Direction of  
the camera  
30°  
60°  
50°  
10m  
100°  
50°  
5m  
36  
EN  
Placement examples: Placement of three flashes  
Group A  
Group C  
30°  
60°  
30°  
50°  
10m  
100°  
50°  
Group B  
Groups A, B: Placed at the sides of the  
subject to bring out perspective and avoid  
a flat look.  
5m  
Group C: Directed at the wall and bounced  
to diffuse shadows from the background.  
Changing the amount of light of each flash  
When shooting with multiple flashes you can create different effects of  
the flash photography by changing the amount of light of each flash.  
First, try to change the flash mode and flash intensity value for each  
group. If that is not enough to create the expression you want, try the  
following.  
Change the distance between the electronic flash and the subject.  
Change the flash intensity value on the electronic flash.  
Change the firing angle.  
x Notes  
If there is an object between the camera’s built-in flash and the electronic  
flash it may obstruct the light signal and the flash may not be emitted.  
If enough light can be reflected back from the subject or from the  
background (for example a wall when shooting indoors), the arrangement  
will work even if it is not perfectly aligned.  
Although there is no limit to the number of wireless flashes you can use,  
it is recommended that each group have no more than three flashes to  
prevent flash malfunction due to mutual interference.  
Place flashes that are to be emitted in AUTO mode so that the auto light  
receptor will face the subject. In such case, the remote sensor will not face  
the camera so the flash will be emitted making use to reflected light from  
the subject or background.  
37  
After you finish placing the electronic flash, be sure to perform a test shot.  
EN  
Picture shooting using a digital camera  
without communication capability  
When using the electronic flash with a camera without communication  
capability, adjust the ISO sensitivity and aperture value in AUTO mode  
to the same values as on the camera or change the shooting distance  
in MANUAL mode.  
You can also emit the flash wirelessly as a slave flash. g “Slave  
flash” (P. 40)  
AUTO  
In this mode, the flash light intensity is controlled automatically  
according to the aperture setting.  
ZOOM button  
1 Turn dial A to adjust the ISO sensitivity.  
Aperture value  
2 Press the ZOOM button to adjust the  
ISO sensitivity  
firing angle according to the focal  
distance of the lens.  
3 Turn dial B according to the aperture  
value of the lens.  
If the ISO sensitivity/aperture value  
combinations do not match the usable  
range, the ISO sensitivity and aperture  
value blink to alert you. In this case,  
change the ISO sensitivity and/or aperture  
value. g “Light control range in AUTO  
Dial A  
mode” (P. 47)  
Press the TEST button to test the flash  
Dial B  
activation.  
g
Test flash activation” (P. 16)  
TEST button  
4 When flash activation has been  
performed correctly, the AUTO CHECK  
lamp blinks for about 5 seconds after  
the shutter is released.  
AUTO CHECK  
lamp  
Flash intensity value  
By selecting an ISO sensitivity and aperture value different from those set on the  
camera, the flash intensity can be adjusted in 1/3 steps.  
38  
EN  
MANUAL  
In this mode, the flash is emitted according to the guide number (GN)  
setting.  
Guide number  
1 The control panel shows the current  
Flash intensity ratio  
guide number together with the flash  
intensity ratio.  
Flash intensity ratio: Ratio of emitted flash  
intensity with respect to the intensity at full  
emission.  
2 Press the ZOOM button to adjust the  
firing angle according to the focal  
distance of the lens.  
3 Turn dial A or dial B to set the guide  
number.  
ZOOM button  
How to determine the aperture value and guide number  
When the shooting distance and aperture value are already  
determined:  
Determine the guide number with the following formula and set the value on  
the electronic flash.  
Aperture value (F) × Shooting distance (m)  
Guide number (GN) =  
ISO sensitivity coefficients  
When it is necessary to determine the aperture value:  
Determine the aperture value with the following formula and set the value on  
the electronic flash.  
Guide number (GN) × ISO sensitivity coefficient  
Aperture value (F) =  
Shooting distance (m)  
When it is necessary to determine the optimum shooting distance:  
Guide number (GN)  
×
ISO sensitivity coefficient  
Optimum shooting distance (m) =  
Aperture value (F)  
ISO sensitivity and their coefficients  
25  
50  
100  
1.0  
200  
1.4  
400  
2.0  
800  
2.8  
1600  
4.0  
3200  
5.6  
ISO sensitivity  
Coefficient  
0.5  
0.71  
For details about the guide number, refer to “Guide number (GN) list” (gP. 45).  
39  
EN  
Slave flash  
The electronic flash is equipped with the slave function. In this function  
you can emit the flash with a wireless remote control by synchronizing  
it to the emission of another flash.  
1 Place the electronic flash.  
Refer to “About the placement of the  
electronic flash” (gP. 36).  
MODE button  
2 Press the MODE button of the electronic  
flash repeatedly to set the flash control  
mode to [SL AUTO] or [SL MANUAL].  
The flash setup is the same as in AUTO  
or MANUAL mode. g “AUTO” (P. 38),  
“MANUAL” (P. 39)  
3 Setup the camera in the following way.  
Set cameras with slave mode to slave  
mode.  
Slave mode  
Set cameras with manual flash emission  
mode to manual flash mode. This setup will  
function also if you attach an external flash  
with manual flash emission mode to the  
camera.  
x Notes  
The slave flash mode cannot be used with cameras that perform a pre-  
flash because the electronic flash will be emitted simultaneously with the  
pre-flash.  
If other photographers are shooting using flash, the electronic flash may  
react to those lights and be emitted.  
The firing angle of the flash cannot be controlled automatically so be sure  
to check it beforehand. Pressing the ZOOM button on the electronic flash  
once will display the firing angle for about 2 seconds. You can change  
the firing angle by pressing ZOOM again while the current firing angle is  
displayed. Verify whether the firing angle setting is appropriate or not by  
performing a test shot.  
40  
EN  
Warning display list  
Control panel  
Warning details  
Ref.  
page  
Remedy  
display  
P. 16  
P. 38  
(camera with  
communication  
capability)  
In AUTO mode:  
Out of light control  
range  
Change the camera’s ISO sensitivity  
or aperture setting.  
(camera without  
communication  
capability)  
When the optimum shooting distance  
is less than 0.6 m (1.9 ft.) (0.5 m  
(1.6 ft.) in case of close-up flash),  
the displayed value blinks to alert  
you that the shooting range does  
not match the light emission area of  
the flash.  
In MANUAL mode:  
Subject too close  
P. 17  
1Change the camera’s ISO  
sensitivity or aperture setting.  
2Change the guide number setting.  
In FP MANUAL  
mode:  
Subject too close  
1Change the camera’s ISO  
sensitivity or aperture setting.  
2Change the guide number setting.  
P. 20  
P. 26  
In all modes:  
Wide panel  
Set the wide panel.  
request warning  
The light-emitting section is tilted 7°  
downwards.  
Cancel this setting except for close-  
up flash photography.  
In all modes:  
Downward bounce  
P. 27  
P. 26  
The wide panel is set.  
In all modes:  
Wide panel  
warning  
Pay attention to the distance to the  
subject since the guide number will  
be lower.  
41  
EN  
Q&A  
Q When are test flash activation and auto checking effective?  
A Checking the optimum flash activation based on the AUTO CHECK  
lamp is particularly effective in bounce flash (in AUTO modes only).  
Q Why does the electronic flash get hot after successive emissions?  
A The batteries generate heat when flash is emitted repeatedly.  
In this case, use the electronic flash at intervals until the flash  
emission section and batteries cool down.  
Q Why can’t I mount the electronic flash on the camera?  
A The electronic flash cannot be attached if the lock pin is protruding.  
In such case, turn the lock ring as far as it will go in the direction  
opposite to LOCK (gP. 9).  
Q Why doesn’t the flash control mode change when I press the  
MODE button?  
A When the electronic flash is connected to certain types of  
communication-capable cameras, the flash control mode can only  
be controlled from the camera.  
Q What is the recommended white balance setting for the camera  
when using the electronic flash?  
A The auto white balance mode is recommended. If you use the  
manual white balance mode, set the color temperature to around  
5500K. Note that the color temperature varies depending on the  
flash intensity.  
Q The AF illuminator does not light up. What is wrong?  
A The AF illuminator only works when you use the electronic flash  
with Olympus Four Thirds System digital SLR cameras. It does not  
work with other cameras. The AF illuminator will not work also when  
lenses large in diameter that can obstruct it are attached to the  
camera.  
42  
EN  
Q The light control range is not displayed on the control panel. What  
is wrong?  
A The light control range is not displayed in the following cases:  
When the extension tube EX-25 (optional) is used.  
When the lens has been removed.  
In bounce shooting.  
While adjusting the flash intensity.  
When the ISO sensitivity and aperture value are out of the setting range.  
Q The flash wasn’t emitted when shooting in RC mode. What is  
wrong?  
A Verify that the camera and the electronic flash are set to the same  
channel and that the group is set correctly (g P. 35).  
Q How can I find out if my camera is compatible with wireless flash?  
A You can use the RC mode only with cameras compatible with the  
Olympus wireless RC flash system. With other cameras you may  
be able to use the electronic flash as slave flash if the camera’s  
built-in flash can be set to slave flash mode or manual flash mode.  
For details, refer to the camera’s instruction manual.  
Q When the Olympus digital camera entered the sleep mode, the  
control panel on the electronic flash turned off as well. Is this  
normal?  
A Yes, it is normal. When the camera enters the sleep mode, the  
FL-50R does as well. When the camera wakes up, so does the  
FL-50R.  
Q Does the FL-50R also turn off when the Olympus digital camera is  
turned off?  
A When the camera is turned off, the FL-50R enters the sleep mode.  
When the camera is turned on again, the FL-50R also turns on.  
When you want to turn off the FL-50R, turn off the FL-50R before  
turning off the camera. In addition, when connected to a camera  
without communication capability, the FL-50R enters the sleep  
mode if it is not operated for about 60 minutes.  
43  
EN  
Optional accessories  
Power grip  
Flash Power Grip FP-1  
(The RG-1 remote grip cable and FL-CB01 or FL-CB02 flash bracket  
cable (depending on the digital camera used) are required.)  
This accessory allows the electronic  
flash to be used as a grip-on type flash  
powered from four C (R14) alkaline  
batteries.  
Using these batteries together with  
the electronic flash batteries makes it  
possible to charge the flash at a higher  
speed and increase the available flash  
emission count.  
External power supply  
Flash High Voltage Set SHV-1  
(High Voltage Pack HV-1, NiMH Battery Pack BN-1 and AC Adapter AC-2)  
The NiMH battery pack BN-1  
incorporated in this accessory makes it  
possible to charge the flash at a higher  
speed and increase the available flash  
emission count.  
(Measurements obtained from in-house tests at Olympus)  
Batteries used Battery used Battery used  
Flash  
interval  
Flash emission  
count  
in the FL-50R  
in the FP-1  
in the HV-1  
Approx. 2.5  
sec.  
Approx. 510  
times  
C (R14)  
alkaline  
batteries  
AA (R6) alkaline  
batteries  
Approx. 780  
times  
BN-1  
BN-1  
Approx. 1 sec.  
Approx. 1 sec.  
Approx. 400  
times  
x Notes  
Up to 10 successive full flashes are permitted. To allow the light-emitting  
area to cool, the electronic flash should not be used for at least 10 minutes  
after 10 flashes have been fired. For details, refer to “Limit counts of  
continuous firings” (gP. 48).  
44  
EN  
Guide number (GN) list  
TTL AUTO/AUTO  
ISO100, m  
10 12 14 17 25 35 42  
16 20 24 28 35 50 70 85  
18 20 28 30 36 40 45 50  
FOUR THIRDS  
With 135  
8
ZOOM (mm)  
Full emission  
TTL AUTO/AUTO  
MANUAL  
ISO100, m  
FOUR THIRDS  
With 135  
1/1  
8
10 12 14 17 25 35 42  
ZOOM (mm)  
16 20 24 28 35 50 70 85  
18 20 28 30 36 40 45 50  
13 14 20 21 26 28 32 35  
9.0 10 14 15 18 20 23 25  
6.4 7.1 9.9 11 13 14 16 18  
4.5 5.0 7.0 7.5 9.0 10 11 13  
3.2 3.5 4.9 5.3 6.4 7.1 8.0 8.8  
2.3 2.5 3.5 3.8 4.5 5.0 5.6 6.3  
1.6 1.8 2.5 2.7 3.2 3.5 4.0 4.4  
1/2  
1/4  
1/8  
1/16  
1/32  
1/64  
1/128  
MANUAL  
FP TTL AUTO  
ISO100, m  
FOUR THIRDS  
With 135  
1/125  
8
10 12 14 17 25 35 42  
ZOOM (mm)  
16 20 24 28 35 50 70 85  
13 14 20 21 26 28 32 35  
11 13 18 19 23 25 28 32  
10 11 16 17 20 23 25 28  
9.0 10 14 15 18 20 23 25  
8.0 8.9 13 13 16 18 20 22  
7.1 7.9 11 12 14 16 18 20  
6.4 7.1 9.9 11 13 14 16 18  
5.7 6.3 8.8 9.4 11 13 14 16  
5.0 5.6 7.9 8.4 10 11 13 14  
4.5 5.0 7.0 7.5 9.0 10 11 13  
4.0 4.4 6.2 6.7 8.0 8.9 10 11  
3.6 4.0 5.6 5.9 7.2 7.9 8.9 9.9  
3.2 3.5 5.0 5.3 6.4 7.1 8.0 8.9  
2.8 3.1 4.4 4.7 5.7 6.3 7.1 7.9  
2.5 2.8 3.9 4.2 5.1 5.6 6.3 7.0  
2.2 2.5 3.5 3.7 4.5 5.0 5.6 6.3  
2.0 2.2 3.1 3.3 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.6  
1.8 2.0 2.8 3.0 3.6 4.0 4.5 5.0  
1.6 1.8 2.5 2.7 3.2 3.5 4.0 4.4  
1/160  
1/200  
1/250  
1/320  
1/400  
1/500  
1/640  
1/800  
1/1000  
1/1250  
1/1600  
1/2000  
1/2500  
1/3200  
1/4000  
1/5000  
1/6400  
1/8000  
Shutter speed  
45  
EN  
FP MANUAL  
The following guide number figures have a 1/1 flash intensity ratio.  
ISO100, m  
FOUR THIRDS  
With 135  
1/125  
8
10 12 14 17 25 35 42  
ZOOM (mm)  
16 20 24 28 35 50 70 85  
13 14 20 21 26 28 32 35  
11 13 18 19 23 25 28 32  
10 11 16 17 20 23 25 28  
9.0 10 14 15 18 20 23 25  
8.0 8.9 13 13 16 18 20 22  
7.1 7.9 11 12 14 16 18 20  
6.4 7.1 9.9 11 13 14 16 18  
5.7 6.3 8.8 9.4 11 13 14 16  
5.0 5.6 7.9 8.4 10 11 13 14  
4.5 5.0 7.0 7.5 9.0 10 11 13  
4.0 4.4 6.2 6.7 8.0 8.9 10 11  
3.6 4.0 5.6 5.9 7.2 7.9 8.9 9.9  
3.2 3.5 5.0 5.3 6.4 7.1 8.0 8.9  
2.8 3.1 4.4 4.7 5.7 6.3 7.1 7.9  
2.5 2.8 3.9 4.2 5.1 5.6 6.3 7.0  
2.2 2.5 3.5 3.7 4.5 5.0 5.6 6.3  
2.0 2.2 3.1 3.3 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.6  
1.8 2.0 2.8 3.0 3.6 4.0 4.5 5.0  
1.6 1.8 2.5 2.7 3.2 3.5 4.0 4.4  
1/160  
1/200  
1/250  
1/320  
1/400  
1/500  
1/640  
1/800  
1/1000  
1/1250  
1/1600  
1/2000  
1/2500  
1/3200  
1/4000  
1/5000  
1/6400  
1/8000  
Shutter speed  
The guide numbers for flash intensity ratios other than 1/1 in the FP MANUAL mode  
can be calculated with the following formula.  
Guide number = Guide number at 1/1 × Flash intensity ratio coefficient  
Flash intensity ratios and their coefficients  
1/1  
1.0  
1/2  
1/4  
0.5  
1/8  
1/16  
Flash intensity ratio  
Coefficient  
0.71  
0.35 0.25  
46  
EN  
Light control range in AUTO mode  
Usable ISO sensitivity/aperture value (F) combinations for light  
control in AUTO mode  
AUTO light control range (m)  
Firing angle (mm)  
ISO sensitivity  
Upper row: FOUR THIRDS Lower row: 135  
8
10  
(W panel) (W panel)  
16 20  
(W panel) (W panel)  
12  
24  
14  
28  
17  
35  
25  
35  
42  
85  
3200 1600 800 400 200 100 50  
50  
70  
F8 F5.6 F4 F2.8 F2 F1.4  
1.1 - 12.8 1.2 - 14.2 1.7 - 20.0 1.9 - 21.4 2.2 - 25.7 2.5 - 28.5 2.8 - 32.1 3.1 - 35.7  
F11 F8 F5.6 F4 F2.8 F2 F1.4 0.8 - 9.0 0.9 - 10.0 1.2 - 14.0 1.3 - 15.0 1.6 - 18.0 1.7 - 20.0 2.0 - 22.5 2.2 - 25.0  
F16 F11 F8 F5.6 F4 F2.8 F2 0.5 - 6.4 0.6 - 7.1 0.8 - 10.0 0.9 - 10.7 1.1 - 12.8 1.2 - 14.2 1.4 - 16.0 1.5 - 17.8  
F22 F16 F11 F8 F5.6 F4 F2.8 0.5 - 4.5 0.5 - 5.0 0.6 - 7.0 0.6 - 7.5 0.8 - 9.0 0.8 - 10.0 1.0 - 11.2 1.1 - 12.5  
F32 F22 F16 F11 F8 F5.6 F4 0.5 - 3.2 0.5 - 3.5 0.5 - 5.0 0.5 - 5.3 0.5 - 6.4 0.6 - 7.1 0.7 - 8.0 0.7 - 8.9  
F32 F22 F16 F11 F8 F5.6 0.5 - 2.2 0.5 - 2.5 0.5 - 3.5 0.5 - 3.7 0.5 - 4.5 0.5 - 5.0 0.5 - 5.6 0.5 - 6.2  
F32 F22 F16 F11 F8 0.5 - 1.6 0.5 - 1.8 0.5 - 2.5 0.5 - 2.7 0.5 - 3.2 0.5 - 3.6 0.5 - 4.0 0.5 - 4.5  
F32 F22 F16 F11 0.5 - 1.1 0.5 - 1.2 0.5 - 1.7 0.5 - 1.8 0.5 - 2.2 0.5 - 2.5 0.5 - 2.8 0.5 - 3.1  
F32 F22 F16 0.5 - 0.7 0.5 - 0.8 0.5 - 1.2 0.5 - 1.3 0.5 - 1.5 0.5 - 1.7 0.5 - 1.9 0.5 - 2.2  
The right part of the table shows light control ranges when using a  
camera without communication capability. The figures given are for  
reference only.  
When you use a camera equipped with the communication function,  
the light metering range for the lens in use is displayed on the control  
panel. This range may be different from the figures in this table.  
47  
EN  
Continuous firing  
For your safety,  
be sure to observe the following.  
Continuous firings make the light-emitting section hot and may result in  
its deterioration, malfunction or deformation. Therefore, continuous firing  
should be limited to the counts shown in the following table. Always leave  
the electronic flash unused for at least 10 minutes after continuous firing  
up to the limit count.  
Limit counts of continuous firings  
Flash intensity  
FULL; 1/1  
1/2  
Flash interval  
1 sec.  
Limit count  
10  
20  
40  
80  
0.5 sec.  
1/4  
0.3 sec.  
1/8 - 1/128  
0.2 sec. or less  
Available counts of flash emission synchronized with continuous  
shooting (at 8 frames/sec.)  
The following table shows the flash emission count that can be  
synchronized to the continuous shooting of the camera. Note, however,  
that the electronic flash should be left unused for more than 10 minutes  
once the maximum continuous flash emission count has been reached.  
FL-50R  
Internal  
battery  
Flash intensity  
External power  
supply  
1/4  
1/8  
1/16  
1/32  
1/64  
1/128  
Without external  
power supply  
Flash Power Grip  
FP-1  
2
5
10  
16  
30  
40  
With  
With  
frames frames frames frames frames frames  
2
5
16  
40  
40  
40  
frames frames frames frames frames frames  
(C (R14) alkaline  
batteries/C (R14)  
NiCd batteries)  
2
5
12 18 40 40  
Without  
frames frames frames frames frames frames  
4
40 40 40 40 40  
High Voltage Pack  
HV-1  
(NiMH battery pack  
BN-1)  
With  
frames frames frames frames frames frames  
20 40 40 40 40  
frames frames frames frames frames frames  
4
Without  
48  
EN  
Safety precautions (Be sure to read  
and observe the following)  
This instruction manual uses a variety of common symbols and icons to assist  
you in proper handling and usage of this product and to warn you of potential  
hazards to yourself and others as well as to property. These symbols and their  
significance are described below.  
This electronic flash has been designed exclusively for use with Olympus  
digital cameras. Do not connect the electronic flash to a camera not  
manufactured by Olympus, as this may result in a malfunction or damage to  
the camera and/or flash.  
DANGER  
The electronic flash incorporates high-voltage circuitry. Never attempt  
to disassemble or modify it, as this may result in electric shock and/or  
injury.  
Do not use the electronic flash in a place where it may be exposed to  
flammable or explosive gas. Otherwise, fire ignition or explosion may  
result.  
To prevent a traffic accident, do not direct the flash towards the driver  
of a car.  
49  
EN  
WARNING  
Do not fire the flash or AF illuminator light immediately in front of a  
person’s eyes (particularly an infant). Exposure to the light from the  
flash at a very short range may cause irreparable injury to the eyes.  
Be especially careful to avoid using the electronic flash at a distance of  
less than 1 meter from an infant.  
Do not leave the electronic flash and batteries within reach of children.  
If a child swallows a battery or small accessory, see a doctor  
immediately.  
If the flash is emitted near a child, their eyes may be injured irreparably.  
Moving parts of the electronic flash could injure a child.  
Avoid the following actions to prevent fire or injury due to battery fluid  
leak, overheating, fire ignition or bursting.  
Do not use batteries that are not specified for use with this electronic  
flash.  
Do not throw the battery in a fire, expose it to heat, short-circuit it, or  
disassemble it.  
Do not mix old and new batteries, or batteries of different types or  
brands.  
Do not attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries such as alkaline  
batteries.  
Do not load batteries with the +/– polarity reversed.  
Do not store the electronic flash in a place exposed to excessive dust  
or moisture. Otherwise, fire or electric shock may result.  
Do not use the flash when it is covered by a flammable object such as  
a handkerchief.  
Do not touch the light-emitting area after use. It will be very hot and  
could burn you.  
If the electronic flash is dropped in water or any fluid gets inside,  
immediately remove the batteries. Contact your dealer or consult your  
Olympus Authorized Service Station.  
Continued use could result in fire or electric shock.  
Do not expose the electric flash to dripping or splashing.  
Do not expose the battery to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or  
the like.  
50  
EN  
CAUTION  
If you notice any abnormalities such as leakage, discoloration,  
deformation, overheating, or odor, stop using this device. Continued  
use could result in fire, overheating or explosion. Remove the batteries  
carefully to avoid burning yourself and to prevent exposure to gas or  
dangerous fluids that may be released. Contact your dealer or consult  
your Olympus Authorized Service Station.  
Always remove the batteries when you don’t expect to use the  
electronic flash for a long period. Otherwise, heat generation or fluid  
leak from the batteries may result in fire, injury and/or contamination of  
the surroundings.  
Do not use a leaking battery. Doing so could result in fire or electric  
shock.  
Do not handle the electronic flash with wet hands. Doing so could  
result in electric shock.  
Do not leave the electronic flash in a place where it may be exposed to  
high temperatures. Otherwise, deterioration of parts or fire may result.  
Do not take out the batteries immediately after using the electronic  
flash continuously for a long period.  
Otherwise, the hot batteries may cause burns.  
Do not deform the battery compartment or allow any foreign objects to  
get inside.  
51  
EN  
BATTERY PRECAUTIONS  
Use only the specified batteries.  
Be sure to observe the following points. Otherwise, battery fluid leak,  
overheating, fire ignition and/or bursting may result.  
Do not mix old and new batteries, recharged and discharged batteries,  
batteries of different capacities, or batteries of different types or brands.  
Do not attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries such as alkaline  
batteries.  
Do not load or use the batteries with the +/– polarity reversed. If the  
batteries do not fit smoothly in the battery compartment, do not force  
them.  
Never use a battery if its outer coating (insulation) has been partially or  
entirely peeled off. Otherwise, leakage, overheating or explosion may  
result.  
Some brand-new batteries may also have their outer coating  
(insulation) peeled off completely or partially. Never use these  
batteries.  
Do not use the following kinds of batteries.  
Outer coating  
(insulation) is  
peeling or has  
peeled off (even  
if the battery is  
brand-new).  
The negative  
end is slightly  
swollen and  
is not covered  
by the coating  
(insulation).  
The negative end  
is flat (whether or  
not a part of the  
negative pole is  
covered by the  
coating).  
If battery fluid gets on your skin or clothes, it may irritate your skin.  
Immediately rinse your skin or clothes with clean water.  
If battery fluid comes in contact with your eyes, blindness may result.  
Rinse your eyes with clean water without rubbing them and see a  
doctor immediately.  
Do not apply a strong shock to a battery or throw it.  
Do not immerse batteries in water or expose to moisture including rain,  
seawater and animal urine.  
Do not throw a battery in fire or heat it.  
52  
EN  
Caution for usage environment  
To protect the high-precision technology contained in this product,  
never leave the flash in the places listed below, no matter if in use or  
storage:  
• Places where temperatures and/or humidity are high or go through  
extreme changes. Direct sunlight, beaches, locked cars, or near  
other heat sources (stove, radiator, etc.) or humidifiers.  
• In sandy or dusty environments.  
• Near flammable items or explosives.  
• In wet places, such as bathrooms or in the rain.  
• In places prone to strong vibrations.  
Never drop the flash or subject it to severe shocks or vibrations.  
When the electronic flash has not been used for a long period, mold  
or moss may form. This can cause a malfunction. To prevent this, it  
is recommended to check the operations before using the electronic  
flash after a long period of storage.  
Do not touch electric contacts on the flash.  
Battery Handling Precautions  
If the +/– terminals of a battery are stained with sweat or oil  
smudges, contact failure may result. Clean the terminals well with a  
dry cloth before using the batteries.  
All rechargeable batteries must be recharged using the specified  
battery charger, simultaneously and completely. Be sure to read the  
battery and battery charger instruction manual.  
In general, battery performance will be temporarily reduced as the  
ambient temperature drops. When using batteries in a cold place,  
keep them warm by keeping the electronic flash in cold protection  
gear or clothing.  
When traveling, it is a good idea to carry spare batteries with you. In  
some countries, it may be difficult to obtain certain batteries.  
When disposing of a rechargeable battery, insulate the +/– terminals  
with pieces of tape and be sure to follow local regulations.  
53  
EN  
For customers in USA  
FCC Notice  
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 unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment would  
void the user’s authority to operate.  
For customers in CANADA  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
For customers in Europe  
“CE” mark indicates that this product complies with the  
European requirements for safety, health, environment  
and customer protection. “CE” mark cameras are  
intended for sales in Europe.  
This symbol [crossed-out wheeled bin WEEE Annex  
IV] indicates separate collection of waste electrical and  
electronic equipment in the EU countries.  
Please do not throw the equipment into the domestic  
refuse.  
Please use the return and collection systems available in  
your country for the disposal of this product.  
Trademarks  
All brand names and product names mentioned in this manual are the  
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.  
54  
EN  
Specifications  
Model number  
Type  
:
:
:
FS-FL50R  
External electronic flash for digital still camera  
Automatic switching  
Guide number  
50: When in 42 mm (85 mm with the 135 type)  
28: When in 12 mm (24 mm with the 135 type)  
18/20 switching (when the wide panel is used)  
Automatic switching  
Firing angle  
:
At 12 mm: Up/down 61°, Left/right 78°  
(equivalent to image angle of 12 mm lens)*  
At 42 mm: Up/down 21°, Left/right 28°  
(equivalent to image angle of 42 mm lens)*  
At 8 mm using the wide panel:  
Up/down 83°, Left/right 101°  
(equivalent to image angle of 8 mm lens)*  
* ZOOM values are the FOUR THIRDS camera  
values.  
Flash emission period  
:
:
Approx. 1/20000 to 1/500 sec. (variable according to  
the flash intensity, except in Super FP flash)  
Approx. 150 times (using AA (R6) alkaline batteries)  
Approx. 220 times (using lithium battery packs)  
(Variable depending on shooting conditions)  
Approx. 6 seconds (using AA (R6) alkaline batteries)  
Approx. 5 seconds (using lithium battery packs)  
Flash emission count  
(at full activation)  
Recharge time  
:
(from full activation to  
CHARGE lamp lighting)  
Flash modes  
:
:
:
:
TTL AUTO, AUTO, MANUAL, FP TTL AUTO, FP  
MANUAL, RC, SL AUTO, SL MANUAL  
Bounce angles  
Auto power off  
AF illuminator  
Up: 0 to 90°, down: 7°  
Right: 0 to 90°, left: 0 to 180°  
Interlocks with the auto power off operation of a  
camera with communication capability  
Automatic firing at low intensity, possible only when a  
camera with communication capability is connected.  
Standard effective distances: 0.7 to 7 m (2.3 to 23 ft.)  
(Variable depending on the camera and lens in use.)  
55  
EN  
RC function  
:
:
Available when used together with cameras  
compatible with the Olympus wireless RC flash  
system.  
Effective distance : Up to approx. 10 m (32.9 ft.)  
AA (R6) alkaline batteries, AA (R6) NiMH batteries, AA  
(R6) lithium batteries, AA (R6) oxyride batteries, AA  
(R6) NiCd batteries × 4 or CR-V3 lithium battery pack  
(Olympus LB-01) × 2  
Power supply  
External power supply  
Dimensions  
:
:
:
Flash Power Grip FP-1 and Flash High Voltage Set  
SHV-1.  
78 (W) × 141 (H) × 107 (D) mm (3.1 × 5.6 × 4.2 in.)  
(excluding protrusions)  
Weight  
385 g (13.6 oz.) (excluding batteries)  
Operating environment : Temperature: 0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F)  
Humidity: No more than 80% (without condensation)  
Specifications are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part  
of the manufacturer.  
56  
EN  
Memo  
57  
EN  
Memo  
58  
EN  
Memo  
59  
EN  
Printed in Singapore  
VS161301  

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