PocketWizard Power ST4 RX Flash Units Quick Start Guide

PocketWizard Power ST4 RX Flash Units

Please read this Quick Guide thoroughly before operating. Also, review the product manuals for your camera, flash systems, and other PocketWizard radios.
This PocketWizard radio runs on powerful software called ControlTL® – Control The Light. It can be configured for your specific needs using the PocketWizard Utility which can be downloaded at: www.PocketWizard.com/support/downloads
The PowerST4 for Elinchrom requires a PocketWizard transmitting radio and a compatible Elinchrom RX flash:

• Style 300RX, 600RX, 1200RX
• Digital 1200RX, Digital 2400RX
• Ranger RX, Ranger RX Speed (S), Ranger RX Speed AS

NOTE: Ranger models require Elinchrom’s EL 19374 – EL-Skyport Transceiver RX Adapter. The PowerST4 requires no batteries. It is powered from the remote port of your Elinchrom RX flash.

Product Description

READ ME FIRST

UPDATE FIRMWARE :

• Be sure to upgrade all your PocketWizard ControlTL radios (including this one) to the latest firmware for proper functionality.
• All equipment should be turned OFF when making connections; unwanted triggering or other erratic behavior may occur.
• The first exposure after making initial connections or powering on may not be properly exposed and flash power levels may not be set as expected. Always test at least twice.
• All information in this Quick Guide is subject to change. Visit www.PocketWizard.com/support to find the latest flash and features compatibility, Quick Guides, and Owner’s Manuals.

To use your PowerST4

1. Connect the PowerST4 to your RX flash pack via the remote port, then power on the flash.
2. Select Zone A, B, or C with the Zone Switch on your PowerST4. Default = A
3. Set up your PocketWizard transmitter and take pictures normally.

Make sure all your radios are set to the same PocketWizard channel. See the Learn Mode and PocketWizard Utility sections for more information on channels. Default = ControlTL 1
The Status LED blinks green every few seconds to indicate normal operation. It will blink red in sync with a trigger.

Momentarily pressing TEST/LEARN will test trigger the flash. See the Learn Mode and Reset sections for more information on those functions.

NOTE: The PowerST4 overrides settings you make directly on your flash. If you would like to change the beeper, modeling light, or optical slave mode on your flash, just set those features on your flash before you turn on your camera’s transmitter. You can also adjust these settings from your transmitter via the PocketWizard Utility. See that section for more information.

If you would like the flash to simply trigger at the output power you set and not accept changes from the radio, follow these steps: before turning on your transmitter, change your flash power level then press TEST on the PowerST4 and wait for 3 amber blinks. Allow a few seconds between each step.
To allow the PowerST4 to control the flash features again, turn the flash OFF and back ON.

Control TL

• If you have a ControlTL transmitter like the MiniTT1 or FlexTT5 then you can control your flash’s output level remotely. Add the AC3 ZoneController for even more control.
• Read the PowerTracking section for more information on using the PowerST4 when no AC3 is present, or when using an AC3 in Auto Mode.
• In AC3 Manual Mode, the AC3 Power Dial sets the flash power output as shown in the table on the right.
• The numbers in the table are within +/- 0.1 stops.
• You can use any PocketWizard ControlTL receiving radios together in the same exposure.
• Remember that studio and manual flash output will not be calculated as part of an E-TTL / i-TTL exposure.

Elinchrom PowerST4 Manual Power Settings

PowerTracking

PowerTracking allows you to adjust your remote studio flash’s output power via the camera’s FEC, ISO and aperture controls.

PowerTracking happens automatically when you have a MiniTT1 or FlexTT5 on a Canon or Nikon camera and you are controlling a compatible studio flash with a PowerST4 connected.

• Center Point: The center point for PowerTracking is 3 stops down from your flash’s maximum output power. All PowerTracking adjustments are based on this center point. For example, if your flash’s maximum output power is 6.5, then the center point is 3.5.
• PowerTracking with your camera’s controls: If there is no AC3 ZoneController on your transmitter, flash output power on your remote studio flash will track up and down with FEC changes on your camera. Zero (0) on your camera’s FEC control is the center point and equals 3 stops down from your flash’s maximum output setting. Adjust FEC to raise or lower your flash power per the table on the previous page. See Camera FEC Range section for more information.
  • Nikon: With no AC3 ZoneController on the transmitter, only the camera’s FEC control will adjust flash power output level.
    Canon: With no AC3 ZoneController on the transmitter, the camera’s ISO and FEC controls will adjust flash power output level. The ISO in use for your first picture will be used as the center point for PowerTracking.

In the PocketWizard Utility for your transmitting ControlTL radio, this is called Full Manual and is the default operation for PowerTracking when no AC3 ZoneController is in use. See below for settings in the PocketWizard Utility that allow you to customize PowerTracking to also use your camera’s aperture controls for Canon and Nikon, or ISO controls for Nikon.

PowerTracking with an AC3 ZoneController: When using an AC3 in A (Auto Mode), flash output power on your remote flash will automatically track up and down with aperture, ISO, or FEC changes on your camera as well as the Power Dial on the AC3. For example: If you narrow your aperture by 1 stop, flash power will increase by 1 stop to keep the exposure the same. Zero (0) on the AC3 Power Dial is centered on the aperture and ISO used for your first picture. For example, if your first picture is at ISO 200 and F:8, then those values will be used as the center point for PowerTracking which is 3 stops down from your flash’s maximum output power.

Follow these steps to set the aperture and ISO values that will be used as the center point:

1. Turn on your camera and MiniTT1 or FlexTT5, but wait to press your shutter button or take any pictures.
2. Set the aperture and ISO you wish to use at the center point. Set the shutter speed as desired, however, changes to shutter speed will not affect PowerTracking.
3. Press the shutter button to take a picture. The center point is now set.
4. Adjust your camera’s ISO, aperture, or FEC to control flash output from the camera automatically via PowerTracking.

To change the values used for the center point, turn off your transmitter then turn it back on and follow these steps again.
Set the AC3 zone to Manual Mode to turn off PowerTracking. Center on ISO & Aperture with First Shot is the default operation. For more information, see the PocketWizard Utility section on adjusting this setting via the PowerTracking Tab for your transmitter.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Shooting in Shutter Priority/Tv, Program, Full Auto, or shooting quickly or making rapid exposure changes is not recommended. The flash values may change rapidly and your remote flash may not be able to keep up. Honor your flash’s ready wait time or “dump” as necessary.

FEC NOTE: Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC) can be set in many places and all values are added together. FEC can be set:

• On the Power Dials of the AC3 ZoneController
• On the camera for all zones except AC3 Manual zones
• For transmitting radios, the PocketWizard Utility can adjust the PowerTracking center point for ISO and aperture which affects all zones
• For the PowerST4, the PocketWizard Utility can adjust FEC for the connected flash on the Exposure Tab

If the combined FEC settings are more or less than your flash’s capabilities, then the flash will operate at maximum or minimum output accordingly.

CAMERA FEC RANGE: The center point for PowerTracking is 3 stops down from your flash’s maximum, so normally +3 on your camera’s FEC would equal flash maximum power. If your camera has a maximum FEC of +2 stops, and you want that setting to equal your flash’s maximum output, set Flash Exposure Compensation in your PowerST4 to +1.0. When you have made this setting, Zero (0) on your camera’s FEC will now be 2 stops down from flash max instead of 3. If your camera’s highest FEC is +1, set this control to +2.0. You can use this control to align your camera’s lowest FEC setting with your flash’s minimum power similarly.

See the Exposure Tab – Flash Exposure Compensation section below for more information.

PocketWizard Utility

Some settings require the PocketWizard Utility software and your ControlTL radio to connect to a computer via the Mini-USB port. Download the Utility at www.PocketWizard.com/support

PowerST4 Receiver Utility settings

Channel Tab
Set your receive channel to match your transmitter. If you are using a MiniTT1 or FlexTT5 as your transmitter, make sure Use ControlTL for Receive Channel is checked. If you are using a Standard transmitter like the Plus II or MultiMAX, uncheck this box. Default = ControlTL 1

Exposure Tab
Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC): Offsets exposure for the connected flash only. This setting can be used as a simple FEC control for an individual flash, or it can be used to set flashes on the same zone to different power outputs or to balance them. For example, you could use -1.0 to make a 600RX match the power of a 300RX. This setting is cumulative with other FEC values set in the system. This control can also be used to adjust where the PowerTracking center point aligns with your camera’s FEC control. See the FEC NOTE and CAMERA FEC RANGE section for more information. Default = 0.0

Flash Tab
Flash Idle Time Out Mode/Delay: The modeling light will turn off after the set time if no triggers are received. Uncheck the box to have the modeling light stay on. Default = Enabled at 600 seconds (10 minutes)

IMPORTANT: Make sure to press the Set Configuration button to save your settings.

FlexTT5 or MiniTT1 Transmitter settings

These settings affect the use of a PowerST4:

Modeling Tab

• Modeling Light Control : Check this box to control modeling light behavior from the transmitter. Default = Enabled
• Control Mode : Determines when the modeling light will go to its active setting. Set to Camera Wake to have the modeling light go active when the camera’s shutter release is half-pressed. Set to AF-Assist to have the modeling light go active only when the camera requests auto-focus assist. Default = Camera Wake
• Modeling Light Autotrack: Enable this control for the modeling light level to track with the camera exposure or AC3 Power Dial settings. Default = Enabled
• Modeling Light Active XX%: Sets the active output level of the modeling light if Autotrack is not used. Default = 100%
• Modeling Light Sleep: Check this box to have the modeling light automatically go to a set output level after a set time. If this box is unchecked, the modeling light will never sleep. Default = Enabled
• Modeling Light Sleep XX%: Sets the output level of the modeling light when it sleeps. Default = 10%
• Modeling Light Delay After Camera Sleeps: Sets the number of seconds after the camera sleeps (meters go inactive) when the modeling light will go to its sleep value. Default = 30 seconds

PowerTracking Tab

• Speedlite Control: Adjusts how Canon Speedlites will respond to the AC3 or ControlTL Transmitter with no AC3. It does not affect the PowerST4. Default = Normal E-TTL

• PowerTracking Control : Adjusts how ControlTL-capable remote studio flashes, like flashes connected to PowerST4 radios, respond to the AC3 in Auto Mode, or to a ControlTL Transmitter with no AC3. See the PowerTracking section for information.

  • Full Manual (default): Turns off PowerTracking for aperture and ISO.
    With an AC3 ZoneController on the transmitter, any zones set to Auto Mode will operate as Center on ISO & Aperture with First Shot (see below) when this control is set to Full Manual. AC3 Manual Mode can be used to adjust flash output power manually with an AC3.

  • Nikon: With no AC3 ZoneController on the transmitter, only the camera’s FEC control will adjust flash power output level.

  • Canon: With no AC3 ZoneController on the transmitter, the camera’s ISO and FEC controls will adjust flash power output level.

• Center on ISO & Aperture with First Shot: The aperture and ISO as set on the camera for the first exposure after powering on the MiniTT1 or FlexTT5 will be used as the center values for PowerTracking. For example if your camera is set to ISO 100 and F:5.6 for its first exposure, then those exposure settings will equal 3 stops down from your flash’s maximum output power. Adjustments to aperture, ISO, and FEC will adjust flash output power accordingly, as will adjusting the Power Dial on AC3 zone in Auto Mode. See the PowerTracking section for more information.

• Center on ISO & Aperture: Lets you control the exposure settings where the center for PowerTracking will begin. Adjust the drop-down boxes for the Aperture Center-On and and ISO Center-On values you want to use as the center point (3 stops down from your flash’s maximum) for PowerTracking.

• Center on Aperture Only: PowerTracking will only work with aperture changes. Set the desired aperture using the Aperture Center-On control. ISO changes will be ignored for PowerTracking.

• Center on ISO Only: PowerTracking will only work with ISO changes. Set the desired ISO using the ISO Center-On control. Aperture changes will be ignored for PowerTracking.
  No Change (trigger only): Turns off PowerTracking and the Power Dials on the AC3 will not adjust the power output of your remote flash. Use this setting if another AC3 is controlling the flash’s manual power output, like when sharing flashes with another photographer and you want to use the exact same manual flash output power.

• AC9 Flash Exposure Compensation : This control is only for remote FlexTT5 radios with an AC9 AlienBees Adapter in the hot shoe. It does not affect the PowerST4.

Flash Tab

• Remote Beeper : Determines what setting the remote flash’s ready beeper will use the next time you half-press the camera’s shutter release. Default = No Change on Wakeup.
• Optical Trigger : Determines what setting the remote flash’s optical trigger will use the next time you half-press the camera’s shutter release. Default = No Change On Wakeup.
  See the NOTE on the To Use your PowerST4 page for more information on these settings.
  The remaining settings on the Flash Tab do not apply to the PowerST4.

For other PocketWizard Utility settings, refer to the Owner’s Manuals for the MiniTT1, FlexTT5, AC3 ZoneController, AC9 AlienBees Adapter, or other ControlTL radios or accessories.

Learn Mode

Your PowerST4 needs to be on the same channel as your transmitter. Channels can be set via the PocketWizard Utility (recommended) or taught from any PocketWizard transmitter. Learn Mode is not required for normal operation of the radios. See the PocketWizard Utility section for more information on setting channels. If you are using a ControlTL transmitter like the MiniTT1 or FlexTT5, and you want to have your flash respond to power settings from the AC3 or perform PowerTracking, make sure your PowerST4 learns a ControlTL channel. Standard Channels on the Plus II and MultiMAX can be used for triggering only.

Follow the steps below to put your PowerST4 in Learn Mode.

IMPORTANT: Hold radios at least 2 feet apart when teaching/learning. Your flash may trigger during teach/learn.

1. Plug the PowerST4 radio into a compatible flash and turn it ON.
2. Press and hold TEST on the PowerST4 for several seconds until the Status LED blinks amber, then release TEST.
3. Immediately press and hold TEST on the teaching transmitting radio (MiniTT1, FlexTT5, MultiMAX or Plus II). When the PowerST4 Status LED blinks green, the channel is learned:
   • green blink = Low Standard channel learned (1 through 16, including Plus 1 through 4)
   • green blinks = High Standard channel learned (MultiMAX 17 through 32)
   • green blinks = ControlTL channel learned for MiniTT1 or FlexTT5

Reset

RESET A / CHANNEL RESET:
To reset the learned channels back to the channels last set in the Utility, hold TEST as you power on the flash. The Status LED blinks green twice to indicate a reset. Release TEST. Advanced features set via the Utility are retained.

RESET B / FACTORY DEFAULTS

To reset all advanced features and channels to FACTORY DEFAULTS, press and hold TEST before you power on the flash, continue to hold TEST as you power on the flash, and do not release TEST for about 10 seconds. When the Status LED blinks green 4 times, release TEST.

PowerST4 PocketWizard Utility Defaults:

• Channel = ControlTL Channel 1
• Exposure Compensation = +/- 0.0
• Flash Idle Time Out Mode/Delay = Enabled at 600 Seconds (10 minutes)

PowerST4 radio information (RECEIVE ONLY):

• 340.00 – 354.00 MHz, US FCC/IC
• 433.42 – 434.42 MHz, CE

IMPORTANT: US FCC/Canada frequency radios are NOT compatible with CE frequency radios or Japan frequency radios and vice versa. For more information on frequency, please go to: www.PocketWizard.com/wheretobuy/frequency

Temperature

• Operating Temperature: Above -15° C (5° F) and below 50° C (120° F)
• Storage Temperature: Above -30° C (-22° F) and below 85° C (185° F)

PocketWizard.com

Warranty

This PocketWizard product is covered under a two-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. For warranty details, and to register your product, please go to www.PocketWizard.com/support or contact your local PocketWizard Distributor. Distributor contact information can also be found at www.PocketWizard.com. To receive a copy of the two-year limited manufacturer’s warranty on this PocketWizard product, e-mail us at warranty@lpadesign.com or write to us at LPA Design, Inc., 21 Gregory Drive, Suite 140, South Burlington, VT 05403, United States of America, Attn: Warranty.

© 2010 LPA Design, Inc. All rights reserved. Product features and specifications are subject to change without notice. PocketWizard, ControlTL, MiniTT1, FlexTT5, PowerST4, AC3, AC9, HyperSync, Plus II, and MultiMAX are either trademarks or registered trademarks of LPA Design, Inc. All other trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners. For more information on this product, including detailed features, specifications, etc., go to www.PocketWizard.com. US Patent: 5,359,375 & US and other patents pending

FAQ’s

What is the PocketWizard Power ST4 RX Flash Unit?

The PocketWizard Power ST4 RX is a wireless flash receiver designed to work with compatible flash units and triggers for remote flash control.

What is the main function of the Power ST4 RX flash unit?

The Power ST4 RX flash unit acts as a receiver that allows you to trigger external flashes remotely using compatible transmitters.

Is the Power ST4 RX compatible with specific camera systems?

The PocketWizard Power ST4 RX is often designed to be compatible with specific camera and flash brands, so ensure it's compatible with your equipment before use.

How does the Power ST4 RX connect to my camera and flash unit?

The Power ST4 RX typically connects to your flash unit via a hot shoe mount or sync cable, enabling wireless communication with a compatible transmitter.

What type of wireless technology does the Power ST4 RX use?

The Power ST4 RX likely utilizes radio frequency (RF) technology to establish a wireless connection between the transmitter and flash unit.

Can I use multiple Power ST4 RX units together?

Yes, you can typically use multiple Power ST4 RX units simultaneously, allowing you to trigger multiple flashes independently or simultaneously.

What is the range of the wireless communication for the Power ST4 RX?

The effective range of the Power ST4 RX's wireless communication varies, but it's designed to work at a certain distance between the transmitter and receiver.

Does the Power ST4 RX support TTL flash control?

Depending on the model, the Power ST4 RX might offer support for Through-The- Lens (TTL) flash metering and control, enhancing flash exposure accuracy.

How do I set up and configure the Power ST4 RX?

Follow the instructions in the product manual to set up the Power ST4 RX with your camera and flash unit. This typically involves syncing the transmitter and receiver and adjusting settings.

Is the Power ST4 RX powered by batteries?

Yes, the Power ST4 RX often requires batteries for operation. Check the manual for specific battery type and installation instructions.

What's the advantage of using wireless triggers like the Power ST4 RX?

Wireless triggers provide convenience and flexibility, allowing you to place your flash units in various positions without the limitations of physical cables.

Can I use the Power ST4 RX for off-camera flash photography?

Absolutely, the Power ST4 RX is designed for off-camera flash photography, enabling creative lighting setups and better control over lighting direction.

Download This PDF Link: PocketWizard PowerST4 RX Flash Units (Black) Quick Start Guide

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