Canon 580EX II

[KevinStecyk]

I presently own one 580EX flash unit.

I am considering purchasing more than one Canon 580EX II flash units. I'd like to experiment with Strobist type activities. That is, I'd like to use the flash units off camera and in combination with Pocket Wizards. I have seen come comments on the internet concerning the PC sync socket (?) and master versus slave settings. Can someone provide a more indepth discussion or description of using Canon's new 580EX II flash unit? Are there concerns that I should be aware of?

[Dennis_Vied]

Here's a page that might be helpful:

Canon EX Flash System Overview

Of course, Strobist is good, too.

[KevinStecyk]

Originally Posted by Dennis_Vied

Here's a page that might be helpful:

Canon EX Flash System Overview

Of course, Strobist is good, too.

Hi Dennis,

I think that link discusses the 580EX, not 580EX II. The 580EX II has a PC sync cord, whereas its predecessor does not.

From a comment on the B & H site, "Also the pc socket doesn't fire external flashes or remote transmitters."

The impression that I am getting, perhaps incorrectly, is that the pc socket accepts Pocket Wizards but does not send out signals to fire other external flashes or remote transmitters.

I think as long as it accepts Pocket Wizards, I am okay.

Just curious as to others' experiences.

Best regards,
Kevin

[Jerry Skrocki]

I have not used the PC sync on my 580EXII, but according to the manual:

"With manual external metering, you can connect the camera to the Speedlite's PC terminal with a sync cord and place the Speedlite at a different position from the camera.

You cannot connect a Speedlite to another Speedlite's PC terminal with a sync cord. The second Speedlite will not fire."

It appears that the PC terminal accepts input only with no output.

Jerry

[KevinStecyk]

Originally Posted by Jerry Skrocki

I have not used the PC sync on my 580EXII, but according to the manual:

"With manual external metering, you can connect the camera to the Speedlite's PC terminal with a sync cord and place the Speedlite at a different position from the camera.

You cannot connect a Speedlite to another Speedlite's PC terminal with a sync cord. The second Speedlite will not fire."

It appears that the PC terminal accepts input only with no output.

Jerry

Thank you Jerry, that is helpful information to know.

[Jerry Skrocki]

The 580EXII also has a built-in light meter.

"The flash reflected off the subject is metered by an external metering sensor in real time. When the standard flash exposure is attained, the flash output is cutoff automatically. Auto external metering compatible with the EOS-1D Mark III and manual external metering compatible with all EOS cameras are provided."

Jerry

[KevinStecyk]

Ah, that's interesting.

[Pro Photo Store]

Visit the B&H Pro Photo Store for the best Gear Prices and regular specials!

Brilliant Color for any Digital SLR
White Balance Cap
The Pros Agree on ColorRight
What People Are Saying