Nikon Speedlight

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Nikon Speedlight SB-600

Speedlight is the name for the range of external electronic flash units from the camera manufacturer Nikon .

General

The name Speedlight was introduced by Nikon in February 1969 with the first electronic flash unit, the SB-1 , to differentiate it from previous flash technology with a flash bulb . Since then, a total of almost 40 different models have been presented, including those for special applications such as macro, ring and underwater flash units. In addition, accessories such as battery packs, lenses or wide-angle adapters are offered.

Early flash units

model introduction Lightning code Recycle time Max. Number of flashes * Functions Weight Dimensions (W × H × D) in mm
SB-1  Oct 1969 36 4 sec. 1000 ** M *** 1100 g (including battery pack) ?? × ?? × ??
SB-2  Dec 1972 25th 8 sec. 140 M, A 410 g 110 × 104 × 40
SB-3  Dec 1972 25th 8 sec. 140 M, A 410 g 110 × 104 × 40
SB-4  March 1974 16 8 sec. 140 M, A 180 g ?? × ?? × ??
SB-5  Sep 1975 32 3 sec. (With SD-4) 420 M, A 1200 g 93 × 252 × 125
SB-6   1976 45 3.8 sec. (At 1/16) k. A. (power supply, no battery) M, A 1100 g (with power pack 6 kg) 128 × 190
SB-7  June 1977 25th 8 sec. 160 M, A 310 g 110 × 79 × 37
SB-8  June 1977 25th 8 sec. 160 M, A 270 g 110 × 79 × 37
SB-9  June 1977 14th 9 sec. 80 M ***, A 87 g 56 × 99 × 24
SB-10  Jan. 1978 25th 8 sec. 160 M, A 270 g 110 × 79 × 37

* with alkaline batteries ** with mono cells (D cells) *** only full output

Explanation of functions:

  • M = manual
  • A = automatic

SB-1

The SB-1 was introduced as an accessory to the Nikon F in February 1969 . The connection to the camera is not made over a hot shoe , but the usual on the Nikon F sync port on the rewind crank . The flash ratio was 36 (ISO 100) . The scope of delivery included a separate battery pack, the flash readiness control lamp SF-1, an adapter SC-4 for the control lamp, an additional flash head SE-1 and a power supply unit SA-1. The SR-1 ring flash, which could be exchanged for the normal flash head, was optionally available. It was screwed onto the filter thread (52 mm) of Nikon lenses with focal lengths from 35 to 200 mm. Another ring flash SM-1 was developed for focal lengths from 24 to 105 mm, but could only be used on lenses in retro position.

SB-2 and SB-3

The SB-2 was introduced as the first compact flash unit in December 1972. The flash guide number is 25. The use of the wide-angle scatter converter extends the illuminated angle of view, but reduces the guide number to 20. The SB-2 was also connected via the flash coupling of the F cameras and did not have a control of the flash intensity. The AS-2 adapter was later developed to operate the SB-1 and SB-2 flash units on cameras with flash shoes. The SB-3 is a variant of the SB-2 for direct connection to the hot shoe, otherwise there are no differences to this.

SB-4

The SB-4 is also a compact flash unit with a weight of 180 g, which was developed primarily for portrait photography. It therefore had an automatic system, which should deliver optimal results at f / 4 . In March 1974 it was introduced with a guide number of 16 and was the first flash unit with a fixed ISO hot shoe connection. The AS-1 and AS-2 adapters were provided for cameras without an ISO hot shoe ( Nikon F and F2 ).

SB-5

The SB-5 is a handheld flash sold from September 1975. It provides a guide number of 32 and weighs 1200 g. The viewing angles are illuminated by lenses up to 28 mm. This flash unit already had three automatic functions for f-stops 4, 5.6 and 8. This required the use of the SU-1 flash sensor. In addition, it could be set manually to full power (guide number 32), 1/4 power (guide number 16) and MD ( motor drive , guide number 11). With the tiltable flash head, the SB-5 could be used for indirect flash in 30 ° steps . Despite the high guide number, the external Power Pack SD-4 provided enough energy with 240 volts for flash cycle times of three seconds at full power. The SE-2 extension cable also made it possible to operate several flash units simultaneously, while the ML-1 control unit was able to remotely control a complete camera flash set over distances of up to 60 meters.

SB-6

As a stroboscopic flash unit, the SB-6 is a special form for the photography of moving objects with series pictures . Despite the short flash recycle times, it has a considerable guide number of 45. In stroboscope mode it fired up to 40 flashes per second. With the sensor unit SU-1, three automatics are available. In addition, the flash output can be reduced in five steps: Full , 1/2 , 1/4 , 1/8 , 1/16 and 1/32 , with a series image speed of 3.8 frames / sec in the last two steps. can be achieved.

SB-7E and SB-8

The SB-7E was introduced in June 1977 and was a modified reissue of the SB-2. Thus it is only natively compatible with the Nikon F and F2; Using the AS-2 adapter, however, it can also be used on cameras that have a hot shoe. The rectifier technology was replaced by a thyristor circuit , so that the device could be lightened by 100 g. With a guide number of 25 (ISO100, m) it has two automatic modes for f-stops 4 and 8. The wide-angle adapter SW-2 increases the illuminated image angle, but reduces the guide number to 20. For the first time, the Mignon battery format was chosen as the power supply ; four batteries are required to operate the flash unit. The SB-7E was never sold in Europe.

The SB-8E was again an update of the SB-3 with a hot shoe connection, but otherwise identical to the SB-7E.

SB-9

The SB-9 was developed as an ultra-compact flash unit and was launched in June 1977. It replaced the SB-4 and is barely 24 mm thick. Despite a weight of only 90 g, it delivered a guide number of 14 (ISO100, m) . Two automatic modes deliver correct exposure at f / 2.8 and f / 4.

SB-E

The 1979 SB-E was specially developed for the Nikon EM . It has a guide number of 10 and can be set to the different flash sync times of the Nikon EM (1/90 sec.) And the Nikon FE / FM (1/125 sec.).

SB-10

The SB-10 replaced the SB-8 after a short time. Technically, there was only one small change that was very significant for the further development of the hot shoe: A second contact was added that could forward the ready signal from the flash unit to the viewfinder of the Nikon FE and all subsequent camera models.

Flash units with TTL measurement

With the SB-11, Nikon began the era of TTL flash metering , in which the light that actually hits the film is measured.

model introduction Lightning code Recycle time Max. Number of flashes * Functions Weight Dimensions (W × H × D) in mm
SB-11  March 1980 36 8 sec. 150 M ***, A, TTL 860 g 276 × 104 × 118
SB-12  March 1980 25th 8 sec. 160 M ***, A, TTL 350 g 105 × 40 × 85
SB-14  Dec 1981 32 9.5 sec. 270 M ***, A, TTL 515 g 94 × 217 × 91
SB-140  Dec 1981 32 8 sec. 270 M ***, A, TTL 515 g 94 × 217 × 91
SB-15  Apr. 1982 25th 8.5 sec. 160 M ***, A, TTL, MD 270 g 105 × 40 × 85
SB-16  Apr. 1983 32 11 sec. 100 M ***, A, TTL, MD 485 g 82 × 166 × 100
SB-17  June 1983 25th 8.5 sec. 160 M ***, A, TTL, MD 300 g 105 × 40 × 85
SB-18  Oct 1983 20th 6 sec. 250 M ***, TTL 150 g 66 × 113 × 42
SB-19  Oct 1983 20th 6 sec. 250 M ***, A 150 g 66 × 113 × 42

* with alkaline batteries ** with mono cells (D cells) *** only full output

Explanation of functions:

  • M = manual
  • A = automatic
  • TTL = Through The Lens (measured through the lens)
  • MD = Motor Drive (synchronization with cameras with a film motor)

SB-11

The SB-11 was introduced together with the F3 in March 1980 as Nikon's first TTL flash unit. It is designed as a stick flash and has a guide number of 36. The flash head can be folded up for indirect flash. Two different contacts are available for different camera connections: The TTL connection to the F3 is made using the TTL cable SC-12, the connection to all other cameras is made using the adapter cable SC-23. The optional SW-2 diffuser reduces the guide number to 25, but at the same time enables images to be illuminated with wide-angle lenses up to 28 mm. The SU-2 flash sensor was placed directly under the flash head and offers, in addition to the automatic f / 4 , f / 5.6 and f / 8, an M position for full flash output and an S position as a reception mode for the ML-1 remote control. Eight mignon cells provide enough energy for approx. 150 pictures and a minimum flash cycle time of eight seconds (full power). The external battery pack SD-7, which was presented later, provides six baby cells with energy for a total of 270 flashes.

SB-12

Nikon SB-12

The SB-12 was presented at the same time as the SB-11 as a TTL compact flash unit for the F3, but can also be attached to the Nikon F and F2 with the flash foot adapter. However, it can then only be set manually. It weighs 350 g without batteries and provides a guide number of 25, which is reduced to 18 when using the optional wide-angle converter SW-4. The TTL mode enables the F3 to take pictures from 0.6 to 12 meters from the subject with aperture values ​​from f / 2 to f / 22. The TTL extension cable CS-14 allows unleashed flashing within a radius of one meter around the hot shoe of the F3.

SB-14 and SB-140

The SB-14 is again a handheld flash unit - with a guide number of 32 it is considered the “little brother” of the SB-11. It is only supplied via the external SD-7 battery pack and does not have its own battery chamber in the housing, which means that the weight of the basic unit is only 515 grams, plus the weight of 290 grams for the SK-5 flash bracket, which is required for mounting on the camera becomes. The flash head of the SB-14 can be rotated and swiveled and thus offers the possibility of indirect flash for every recording format. With the wide-angle attachment SW-5, the guide number is reduced to 22. The sales start was in December 1981.

The SB-140 is a special variant of the SB-14 for use in research and criminal investigations. It has a slightly modified flash head and three matching filter attachments for infrared and UV photography.

SB-15 and SB-17

Nikon FG with the SB-15 flash unit mounted

The SB-15 is the successor to the SB-12. The technical data including the guide numbers have not been changed, only the flash reflector can be folded up horizontally by 15 °, 30 °, 60 ° up to a maximum of 90 °.

The SB-17 is a modified version of the SB-15 presented in June 1983 with a connection for the F3 series and TTL synchronization, which is otherwise identical.

SB-16

The device presented in April 1983 was sold as SB-16A or SB-16B depending on the camera adapter supplied; With the respective adapter, the flash head can either be used with a camera of the F3 series (AS-8) or an ISO standard hot shoe (AS-9). It can be folded horizontally by 90 ° and is the only Speedlight with a second flash reflector, which counteracts the formation of shadows in faces in the case of indirect flashes by brightening them. The guide number without the SW-7 wide-angle attachment is 32 and with 19. In addition to the TTL mode, there are two additional automatic modes for aperture f / 4 and f / 8. Both camera adapters also have PC sync and TTL connections. Four mignon cells serve as the energy source.

SB-18 and SB-19

For the Nikon FG , the compact flash unit SB-18 came onto the market in October 1983. It has a guide number of 20 and weighs just 150 grams. Equipped with four Mignon cells, it has enough energy for approx. 250 releases at full power, which is the only alternative setting option in addition to the TTL mode. The reflector is immobile.

The SB-19 is a variant in which the TTL mode gave way to a conventional automatic mode.

Auto-focus flash units

model introduction Lightning code Recycle time Max. Number of flashes * Functions Weight Dimensions (W × H × D) in mm
SB-20  March 1986 30th 7 sec. 150 M, A, TTL 260 g 71 × 110 × 70
SB-21  Oct 1986 12 8 sec. 200 M, A, TTL 145 g 130 × 120 × 21
SB-22  Dec 1987 25th 4 sec. 200 M ***, A, TTL 250 g 68 × 105 × 80
SB-23  June 1988 20th 2 sec. 400 M ***, A, TTL 140 g 64 × 67 × 84

* with alkaline batteries ** with mono cells (D cells) *** only full output

Explanation of functions:

  • M = manual
  • A = automatic
  • TTL = Through The Lens (measured through the lens)
  • MD = Motor Drive (synchronization with cameras with a film motor)

SB-20

The SB-20 represents another leap in the Nikon flash technology range. With the introduction of AF cameras, a light source was required to support passive autofocus . Nikon introduced this with the SB-20. When the autofocus is active, it shines a grid onto the object to be photographed via a separate AF auxiliary light LED. With the SB-20, a first forerunner for the variable flash reflector was also created. The increasing use of zoom lenses required more and more a comfortable solution to be able to set the flash unit to various focal lengths. The SB-20 offers this option with a rotating flash reflector that can be set to three different focal lengths. Position N covers the focal length range of 35 mm, position T is for 85 mm and position W for 28 mm. The guide numbers in the corresponding reflector positions are as follows: N = 30 (ISO100, m) , T = 36 (ISO100, m) and W = 22 (ISO100, m) . The flash head could be folded 90 ° horizontally upwards and 7 ° downwards. The latter option is for macro photography . Three modes (TTL, automatic and manual) are available. In manual mode, the flash output can be reduced from full to 1/16. This flash unit is also fed by four Mignon batteries which are sufficient for approx. 150 releases at full power. In order to keep energy consumption lower, a stand-by function was also added to a Speedlight for the first time. The flash could be reactivated by tapping the shutter button on the camera. As a hot shoe model, one of the adapters AS-4 AS-7 or AS-17 (for TTL) is required for using the SB-20 on the F3. It was launched together with the F501 in spring 1986.

SB-21A / B

In 1986, the SB-21A / B replaced the SR-1 ring flash unit that had been in production for over 10 years. Two control units, AS-12 and AS-14, make it compatible with the F3 series and all other cameras with an ISO hot shoe. The flash unit is mounted on either 52 mm or 62 mm filter thread using the adapter supplied. Energy sources for the SB-21 are either 4 Mignon cells, the external battery pack of the Medical Nikkor 120 mm f / 4 called LD-2 or the power supply unit LA-2 AC. The SB-21 has a guide number of 12 (ISO100, m) , which could be reduced to 1/4 or 1/16 either by TTL or manually. The flash unit has been developed for lenses with focal lengths greater than 35 mm and causes vignetting when used at further focal lengths .

SB-22

The SB-22 on a COOLPIX 5000

The SB-22 was introduced in 1987 and is a more compact variant of the SB-20. The rotating reflector was exchanged for a folding reflector, which can be folded down 7 ° and upwards 90 °. The guide number is 25 (ISO100, m) and decreases to 18 (ISO100, m) with the wide-angle adapter . From the SB-22, this is built into the flash housing as a diffuser . With four Mignon batteries approx. 200 flashes can be ignited at full power. The flash recycle time is given by Nikon as 4 seconds. For more releases and faster flash recycle times, a battery pack such as B. the SD-8A can be used.

SB-22s

Chronologically, the SB-22s only belongs here in terms of its name. Due to its market launch in April 1998, however, it belongs to the Modern Speedlight series according to the release date .

SB-23

The SB-23 was introduced in 1988 as another ultra-compact flash unit with a rudimentary range of functions. The flash head is fixed for direct flash and a wide-angle attachment is also missing. Only TTL or manual are available as flash modes. However, four Mignon batteries can fire up to 400 flashes with a very short follow-up time of just two seconds. The guide number is also very high at 20 (ISO100, m) for such a compact model.

Flash units with multi-flash TTL and 3D multi-sensor fill-flash

From the following models onwards, Nikon introduced the TTL multi-flash system, which for the first time allows the use of up to five flash units simultaneously in TTL mode. The TTL control is transmitted via the TTL cable SC-17 SC-18 or SC-19. The 3-pole SC-18 and SC-19 cables only transmit the TTL on / off signals, while the 5-pole SC-17 transmits all TTL signals and the flash unit connected to it takes over the measurement / control flashes.

model introduction Lightning code Recycle time Max. Number of flashes * Functions Weight Dimensions (W × H × D) in mm
SB-24  March 1988 36 7 sec. 100 M, A, TTL, RPT 390 g 80 × 131 × 100
SB-25  March 1992 36 7 sec. 100 M, A, TTL, 3D-TTL, RPT 380 g 79 × 135 × 101
SB-26  Sep 1994 36 7 sec. 100 M, A, TTL, 3D-TTL, RPT 390 g 79 × 135 × 101
SB-27  Aug 1995 30th 5 sec. 140 M, A, TTL, 3D-TTL 340 g 107 × 70 × 97
SB-28  Apr 1997 36 6.5 sec. 150 M, A, TTL, 3D-TTL 320 g 69 × 128 × 90
SB-29  Dec 1999 11 3 sec. 300 M, TTL, 3D-TTL 410 g 119 × 133 × 29 (flash unit)
SB-30  Feb. 2002 16 4 sec. 250 M, A, TTL, 3D-TTL 92g 59 × 84 × 36

* with alkaline batteries

Explanation of functions:

  • M = manual
  • A = automatic
  • TTL = Through The Lens (measured through the lens)
  • 3D-TTL = pre-flashes together with distance information from compatible lenses
  • RPT = strobe flash

SB-24

The SB-24 is considered a pioneer in modern flash photography. Together with the Nikon F-801, also presented in 1988, and all subsequent models such as the For example, the Nikon F4 can be operated without any pre-settings, just controlled by the camera, thus opening up flash photography for all user groups. In addition to this advanced automation, however, there have also been significant improvements in manual control. In addition to TTL and automatic, the SB-24 also supports fully manual control, a stroboscope mode with 10 Hz and, for the first time, a matrix-controlled fill flash. Each of these modes can be further influenced, making the flash unit the most versatile of its time. The rotating flash reflector has been further developed and converted into a motor-controlled zoom reflector which, with compatible cameras and lenses, automatically adapts to the focal length used (from 24 to 85 mm). For the first time, an LC display has also been installed in order to be able to graphically display the extensive functions. The display is illuminated to ensure the operation of the flash unit even when there is little ambient light. The flash output can also be reduced in 1/3 steps in TTL mode via the display in order to better mix the natural light with the flash light . The flash head can be tilted horizontally and swiveled vertically, enabling indirect flashing in any position of the camera. Here, too, either four Mignon cells or a separate battery pack such as the SD-7 or SD-8A provide energy. Up to 100 activations were possible via the Mignon cells. With the introduction of the automatic zoom reflector, the guide number also became a variable. The main routing number is still given by Nikon for 35 mm and is 36 (ISO100, m) for the SB-24 . The actual guide number varies depending on the reflector position between 30 (ISO100, m) at 24 mm and 50 (ISO100, m) at 85 mm.

SB-25

The SB-25 replaced the very successful SB-24 in 1992 and extended the range of functions significantly while maintaining almost the same technical specifications. The guide number remained at 36 (ISO100, m) . Just like the power supply and the dimensions. In addition to the automatic flash reflector, there was a fold-out lens and a pull-out white reflector card. The functionality of the SB-25 has been adapted to the current Nikon F90 . The 5 segment TTL sensor was added to this and subsequent models. In order to make the TTL measurement even more precise, the SB-25 emits a burst of up to 16 short measuring flashes before the exposure. Together with the distance information from the also newly introduced D- Nikkor lenses, the TTL measurement was further refined. Nikon calls this system 3D multi-sensor fill-flash. In addition, the modes multi-sensor fill-flash , center-weighted fill-flash and spot fill-flash can be selected. The stroboscope mode has also been increased to a frequency of 50 Hz with a maximum of 40 flashes at 1/64 power. The FP High Speed ​​Sync function has been added for the new cameras F90 , F100 and the F5 series , with which exposure times of up to 1 / 4000s are possible. The SB-25 can also be used to reduce the red-eye effect , in which short pre-flashes are emitted to close the iris in the eye. For additional security, the hot shoe connection is provided with a safety pin next to the clamping screw. With all camera models from the F90 onwards, this is lowered into the hot shoe and prevents accidental detachment of the flash unit from the camera.

SB-26

The Nikon SB-26 front and back views

The SB-26 was the next Speedlight in the series and was introduced in September 1994. Here, too, the structure and services have hardly changed. With a guide number of 36 (ISO100, m) approx. 150 flashes could be ignited at full power. In addition to an improved diffuser, which can now illuminate a viewing angle of 18 mm lenses, the biggest innovation was the installation of a photo cell . With this the SB-26 can be ignited wirelessly from the main flash used. For this purpose, the SB-26 activated via a selector switch on the front, disabled and the switch position D later be activated. This switch position is used to ignite the flash through a delay circuit only after the TTL measurement of the main flash. This prevents the SB-26 from igniting within the pre-flashes of the main flash and thus falsifying the result. With this remote control, however, the SB-26 must be set manually or via the automatic system. TTL signals cannot yet be transmitted over this connection.

SB-27

In contrast to the 3 previous models, the SB-27 was again developed with a more compact housing. It was launched in 1995. The nominal number of 34 (ISO100, m) decreased with the reflector position from 24 mm to 25 (ISO100, m) . To illuminate this focal length of 24 mm to a maximum of 50 mm, the SB-27 must be aligned horizontally. In the vertical position, focal lengths from 35 mm to 70 mm are covered. As in the previous model, the flash reflector automatically corrects the intermediate stages. The lens and the reflector card were also taken over from this. Just like the 3D multi-sensor fill-flash system. Four Mignon batteries provide energy for approx. 150 releases with a flash cycle time of approx. 5 seconds. With an external battery pack like the SD-8A, both values ​​can be improved.

SB-28

Speedlight SB-28

The SB-28 should replace the previous model SB-26 from 1997. With the same performance (guide number 36 (ISO100, m) ) it was reduced to a weight of only 320 g (without batteries). The dimensions have also been reduced to 127 × 68 × 91 (L × W × H in mm). The photocell was removed due to insufficient demand and two years later it was presented as the external control unit Speedlight # SU-4 . The release has also been moved to the second shutter curtain and the red-eye reduction function as an extra function in the camera and can only be controlled from there. As a further improvement over its predecessor, the flash head of the SB-28 can now be released with just one button for turning and panning.

SB-22s

The SB-22s was introduced in 1998 after eleven years as an update version of the SB-22. The latest technology including 3D multi-sensor fill flash, TTL, etc. was now installed in the almost identical housing. The guide number has also been increased to 28 (ISO100, m) . The four Mignon batteries gave enough energy for almost 250 releases with a very short flash cycle time of barely four seconds.

SB-29

The SB-29 is the further development of the macro flash unit SB-21 which it replaced in 1999. Like its predecessor, it consists of two housings that are connected to each other by a cable. The guide number is 11 (ISO100, m) with a flash cycle time of just three seconds. The ring flash unit could be attached to lenses with 52 mm, 62 mm and 72 mm filter thread or directly to the control unit using three adapters. In addition to the TTL function, the flash could be throttled manually. In addition, a stroboscope mode with approx. 40 Hz was available, which could also be used as a preview for the shadow cast by the flash set.

SB-30

The SB-30 is again an ultra-compact flash unit. It was introduced in February 2002 and has only been developed for direct flashing. Due to the design, the Leitz number is only 16 (ISO100, m) and the flash unit needs a CR-123A lithium battery for 250 flashes. The flash cycle time is approx. 4 seconds. The functions available are manual with full power, 1/8 and 1/32, as well as auto, TTL and 3D-TTL. The SB-30 can also be used as a wireless flash unit. With the built-in infrared filter and receiver both as a transmitter and receiver unit. For macro photography, the flash unit can be tilted forward using the joint in the foot. Tilted completely down, it can be mounted to save space and remain on the camera even when not in use.

Flash units with D-TTL for early DSLRs

With the introduction of the digital image sensor in single lens reflex cameras, the TTL system had to be changed. The original main measurement was taken with the shutter open with light reflecting off the film surface. The CCD sensor of DSLR cameras is unsuitable for this, however, as not enough light is reflected from it. Nikon therefore relocated the entire TTL measurement to the pre-flashes, which are reflected from the closed shutter onto the TTL sensor. As a result, however, the system lost the ability to stop the flash when the required amount of light was reached while taking the picture. The entire calculation of the required amount of light can only be determined and calculated before the exposure.

model introduction Lightning code Recycle time Max. Number of flashes * Functions Weight Dimensions (W × H × D) in mm
SB-28DX  Feb 1999 36 6.5 sec. 150 M, A, TTL, 3D-TTL, D-TTL 320 g 69 × 128 × 90
SB-50DX  Feb 2001 22nd 3.5 sec. 250 M, TTL, D-TTL 235 g 63 × 107 × 105
SB-80DX  Feb. 2002 38 6 sec. 150 M, A, TTL, 3D-TTL, D-TTL, RPT 335 g 71 × 128 × 92

* with alkaline batteries

Explanation of functions:

  • M = manual
  • A = automatic
  • TTL = Through The Lens (measured through the lens)
  • 3D-TTL = measuring flashes together with distance information from compatible lenses
  • D-TTL = Digital TTL for early DSLRs
  • RPT = strobe flash

SB-28DX

The SB-28DX is the modified version of the SB-28 for the introduction of the digital SLR cameras such as the D1 , D1X , D1H and D100 and came onto the market together with the D1 in 1999. Apart from the D-TTL measurement, it is identical to the SB-28.

SB-50DX

The SB-50DX was introduced in February 2001 as the second flash unit with D-TTL function. Although compatible with all cameras with a hot shoe, the SB-50DX was specially designed for the new DSLR models with built-in flip-up flash units. Due to its 45 ° position, it protrudes far beyond the folded-out flash units of the cameras and can be used in conjunction with them to provide support . Here, the camera flash can still with an attached to the SB-50DX diffuser disc defused be. The camera's internal flash is only used for brightening, while the SB-50DX acts directly or indirectly as the main flash. However, the camera flash can be left closed and the SB-50DX used as the sole flash unit. The flash head can be folded down to approx. −17 ° for macro shots in order to guarantee correct exposure even with very short shooting distances of down to 30 cm. For indirect flash, the flash head flips up to 90 °. The built-in diffuser enables illumination at focal lengths of 14 mm. The guide number is reduced from 22 (ISO100, m) to 12 (ISO100, m) . For the first time, no Mignon cells were used as power supply, but two lithium batteries of the type CR-123A . With these, 250 releases are possible with a flash cycle time of approx. 3 1/2 seconds. Remote control via control flashes has also been reintroduced as a further function . This allows both SB-50DX and SB-80DX flash units to be used as control units or receiver units. The receiver units must be set to the remote function in the menu . The control unit can be converted into an infrared control unit with the supplied infrared filter SW-9IR. This avoids incorrect exposure of the flash set by the control flashes. The range in which the flash set of the receiver units can be set up is up to 7 meters. Another innovation is the securing of the flash connection on the flash shoe of the camera. It was changed from the previously used rotary thread to a safety lever, which ensures that the flash unit can be put on and taken off quickly.

  • Rear of the SB-50DX

  • SB-50DX with diffuser in front of the camera's internal flash

  • Lever for deactivating the camera's internal flash

SB-80DX

The SB-80DX was introduced two years after the SB-50DX in February 2002. With a guide number of 38 (ISO100, m) , it is Nikon's most powerful battery- powered flash unit to date. It achieves a flash cycle time of 4 seconds and can ignite approx. 150 flashes with a battery charge of four Mignon cells. The range of functions includes manual flashing from full load to 1/32, automatic flashing, TTL, 3D-TTL and stroboscopic flashing. All these functions can be conveniently set via a ring menu on the integrated multi-function LC display. The SB-80DX also has wireless flash control and can be used both as a control unit and as a receiver unit. The automatic zoom reflector covers focal lengths from 24 mm to 105 mm and can be extended to 17 mm by using the diffuser. If this is not enough, this value can be increased to 14 mm by using the supplied SW-10H diffuser dome. As soon as this is placed on the SB-80DX, a small electrical contact automatically blocks the reflector to 14 mm. For individual purposes, the flash intensity can be corrected from −3 to +3 f-stop steps. In addition , the SB-80DX automatically fires a flash of lightning for approx. 3 seconds when you press the preview button on the camera. This allows shadows and flash exposure to be checked in advance. The function can also be activated via an extra button on the back of the flash unit. The SD-8A and the SK-6A power rail can be used as external voltage sources.

Flash units with i-TTL or Creative Lighting System

After digital SLR cameras became affordable for amateur photographers, Nikon introduced the Creative Lighting System (CLS). It summarized the flash modes developed up to then and the new i-TTL under one heading. All of the following flash units have since been compatible with the CLS.

model introduction Lightning code Recycle time Max. Number of flashes * Functions Weight Dimensions (W × H × D) in mm
SB-300  Aug 2013 18th 3.5 s ** 110 M, i-TTL 97 g 65 × 57 × 62
SB-400  Nov 2006 21st 2.5 s ** 150 M ***, i-TTL 127 g 57 × 66 × 80
SB-500  Sep 2014 24 3.5 s ** 140 M *****, i-TTL, video light 226 g 67x114.5 x 70.8
SB-600  March 2004 30th 3.5 s 250 M, TTL, D-TTL, i-TTL 235 g 63 × 107 × 105
SB-700  Sep 2010 28 2.5 s 200 M, i-TTL 360 g 126 × 71 × 105
SB-800  Nov 2004 38 2.5 s **** 150 M, A, TTL, 3D-TTL, D-TTL, i-TTL, RPT 350 g 71 × 128 × 92
SB-900  July 2008 34 2.3 s ** 190 ** M, A, 3D-TTL, i-TTL, RPT 415 g 78 × 146 × 119
SB-910  Dec 2011 34 2.3 s ** 190 ** M, A, i-TTL, RPT 420 g 78.5 × 145 × 113
SB-5000  Jan. 2016 34.5 1.8 s ** 190 ** M, A, i-TTL, RPT 420 g 73 × 137 × 103.5
R1C1  Nov 2005 10 6 s 290 M, TTL, D-TTL, i-TTL approx. 500 g 68 × 96 × 58 (SU-800 only)

* with alkaline batteries ** with Ni-MH accumulators *** only with the D40 **** only with 5 battery cells ***** setting via the camera menu for compatible cameras

Explanation of functions:

  • M = manual
  • A = automatic
  • TTL = Through The Lens (measured through the lens)
  • 3D-TTL = pre-flashes together with distance information from compatible lenses
  • D-TTL = Digital TTL for early DSLRs
  • i-TTL = Intelligent TTL for DSLRs (see CLS )
  • RPT = strobe flash

SB-300

The SB-300 was introduced in August 2013 as a very simple compact flash unit. The very compact dimensions of 65.4 mm × 57.4 mm × 62.3 mm result in a guide number of 18 (ISO100, m) . The flash covers the angle of view of a 27 mm lens (FX format) or 18 mm lens (DX format) and can be pointed slightly backwards in 4 steps from horizontal alignment up to 120 °. It is not possible to swivel to the side. The SB-300 supports i-TTL exposure control and can be controlled manually on compatible cameras via the camera menu. The flash itself only has an on / off switch and an operating control light. It is operated with 2 micro rechargeable batteries / batteries (size AAA).

SB-400

The SB-400 was introduced together with the D40 in November 2006. It is a pure i-TTL flash unit with a compact design. With the extremely compact dimensions of just 57 × 66 × 80 mm, there is a guide number of 21 (ISO100, m) . Two mignon cells provide enough energy for up to 150 releases. The flash reflector can be folded up by 90 ° in three steps for indirect flash. With the D40, the flash can be throttled manually. Only the i-TTL control is available on all other CLS-compatible cameras. It is not possible to use the FP automatic high-speed synchronization with the SB-400.

  • The SB-400 on a Nikon D7000

  • Reflector in basic position

  • Reflector tilted upwards by 90 degrees

  • Controls on the back

SB-600

The SB-600 was introduced half a year before the SB-800 in March 2004 as a more simply equipped, cheaper alternative. The flash guide number is 30 (ISO100, m) a little below that of its big brother. In return, the flash cycle time at full power with four Mignon cells is 3.5 seconds. The SB-800, on the other hand, takes a full 6 seconds. At 235 g, the SB-600 is over 100 g lighter than the SB-800. Nikon specifies the maximum number of flashes as 250. In contrast to the SB-800, the SB-600 only serves as a receiver unit in the Advances Wireless Lighting System .

  • Speedlight SB-600 with stand AS-10

  • Speedlight SB-600 rear view

  • Speedlight SB-600 front view

SB-700

Introduced in September 2010, the SB-700 came onto the European market at the end of November. It replaces the previous model, the SB-600, presented in 2004, and is currently being sold alongside the SB-910. At 28 (ISO 100, m) the flash ratio is slightly weaker than that of the predecessor, but the flash recycle time is a whole second shorter at 2.5 s, and the maximum number of flashes has been reduced by 50 to a maximum of 200.

Like the SB-910, the SB-700 is a control unit for the Advanced Wireless Lighting System. An automatic temperature measurement switches off the flash when the temperature is too high and thus protects the flash tube from damage due to overheating. The scope of delivery includes the stand AS-22, the diffuser SW-14H, the filter attachments SZ-3TN and SZ-3FL and the bag SS-700. The filter attachments are automatically recognized by the SB-700 via a coding.

  • Speedlight SB-700

SB-800

The SB-800 was introduced in 2004 as the successor to the SB-80DX. It has a guide number of 38 (ISO100, m) . The flash recycle time (at full power) is 6 seconds (with four Mignon cells) and 2.7 seconds with the included battery pack SD-800 (holds an extra Mignon cell). With this, the SB-800 should be able to deliver approx. 150 flashes at full load. The SB-800 is a control unit with which other flashes of the Advanced Wireless Lighting System can be remotely controlled wirelessly. The scope of delivery of the SB-800 includes the SD-800 battery pack, the SW-10H diffuser dome, the SJ-800 gel color filter set, the AS-19 stand and the SS-800 cloth bag. In addition, an extended filter set SJ-1 , the battery pack SD-8A and various TTL and non-TTL flash cables are available. An SK-6A power bracket originally developed for the SB-80DX can also be used with the SB-800.

  • Back of the SB-800 on a Nikon D200

  • Front of the SB-800 on a Nikon D200

  • Side of the SB-800 on a Nikon D200

SB-900

Nikon SB-900

The SB-900 was introduced in July 2008. It replaces the SB-800 and has very similar specifications. Although it has become a bit bigger and heavier, it only has a guide number of 34 (ISO100, m) . The recycle time, however, is slightly shorter at 2.3 seconds. In addition, there are almost 200 trips with four Mignon cells. The ability to add a fifth cell like in the SB-800 has been abandoned. The temperature monitoring has already been added here, but in contrast to the SB-700, it can be deactivated manually. With the SB-900, a new external voltage source, the high-performance battery pack SD-9 , was introduced. So far, this is only compatible with the SB-900, as an extra nose was attached to the connection, which prevents the connection to older Speedlights.

SB-910

The SB-910 was introduced on November 30, 2011 and released in December 2011. It is a slightly further developed version of the SB-900 with improved overheating protection, an adapted user interface and modified color filter attachments.

SB-5000

The professional SB-5000 was released in 2016.

Macro flash kit R1C1

The R1C1 macro flash kit has been the “battleship” of Nikon's macro flash units since it was launched in November 2005. The guide number is 10 (ISO100, m) and with a CR-123A lithium battery an SB-R200 can fire up to 150 lightning bolts. The control unit SU-800 is also fed by a CR-123A battery and can therefore emit up to 1200 control flashes with a flash cycle time of one second. In addition to the complete kit R1C1, there is also a slimmed-down version R1 , which is sold without the control unit SU-800 . This is then controlled by compatible DSLR cameras via the integrated flash unit. The R1C1 consists of the infrared control unit SU-800 , two wireless flash units SB-R200 , the adapter set for the connection of up to 8 flash units, which can be attached to the connection ring SX-1 around the lens, the diffuser disc SW-12 with bracket as well as a system bag for the safe storage of all individual parts. The connection ring can be attached to lenses with filter threads 52, 62, 67, 72 and 77 mm. As a member of the Advanced Wireless Lighting System, all flash units can be controlled wirelessly. Therefore, these do not necessarily have to be attached to the lens ring , but can be freely distributed around the subject with the help of AS-20 feet or retaining clips. The SU-800 can be used to create 2 flash groups with different TTL settings. The flash exposure compensation can be shifted from one group to the other at the same time. The intensity of one group is automatically reduced, while that of the other is increased. The motif can be lit correctly quickly and easily. If the internal flash unit of a compatible camera is used instead of the SU-800 , Nikon recommends the use of the infrared filter SG-3IR, which is plugged into the hot shoe of the camera and folded in front of the unfolded flash unit. The kit is also compatible with D-TTL cameras such as the D100 . However, since these do not have the wireless Advanced Wireless Lighting System, the SC-30 control cables from the SU-800 to the SB-R200 units must be laid here. The number of flash units is limited to two here.

  • The macro flash kit R1 without SU-800 with infrared filter SG-3IR

  • Color filter set SJ-3

  • The macro kit R1 with diffuser attachments

  • The R1C1 macro kit with SU-800 and diffuser attachments

  • SB-R200 on stand

  • SB-R200 with diffuser on stand

  • Top view of the SB-R200

  • Infrared filter SG-3IR

  • Front view of the SU-800

  • Rear view of the SU-800

Flash units for Nikon 1

Nikon has developed a new multi-accessory connector and new, matching system flashes for the V-models of the Nikon 1 series . These flash units are not compatible with cameras outside of the Nikon 1 series.

model introduction Lightning code Recycle time Max. Number of flashes * Functions Weight Dimensions (W × H × D) in mm
SB-N5  Sep 2011 8.5 - - i-TTL, M 70 g 50 x 70.5 x 40.5
SB-N7  Oct. 2012 18th - - i-TTL, M 70 g 57.4 x 68.4 x 62.3

SB-N5

The SB-N5 is a simple, very compact, but also relatively inefficient flash unit for the Nikon 1. It can be swiveled horizontally and vertically for indirect flash. As a special feature, it has an LED light on the front that provides a short-term continuous light for the "Smart Photo Selector" and "Moving snapshot" modes.

The SB-N5 does not have its own batteries; it is powered by the camera's battery. The flash itself only has an on / off switch and an operating control light. The flash is controlled via the camera's menu.

SB-N7

The SB-N7 is a simple flash unit for the Nikon 1. It can be swiveled vertically by 120 ° for bounce flash.

The flash itself only has an on / off switch and an operating control light. The flash is controlled via the camera's menu. It is operated with 2 micro rechargeable batteries / batteries (size AAA).

literature

  • Peter Braczko: The Nikon Handbook, a complete guide to cameras, lenses and accessories . 460 pages. Fountain Press Newpro UK Lt. ISBN 0-86343-383-9 .
  • Simon Stafford, Rudi Hillebrand & Hans-Joachim Hausschild: The new Nikon Compendium, cameras, lenses and accessories since 1917 . 416 pages. Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. ISBN 1-57990-592-7 .

Web links

Commons : Nikon flashes  - collection of images, videos and audio files

Individual evidence

  1. ↑ Photography in Malaysia , viewed March 2011
  2. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: SB-1 , accessed April 2011
  3. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: SB-2 , accessed April 2011
  4. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Additional info on Nikon Speedlights SB-3, SB-4 and SB-5 , accessed April 2011
  5. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Additional info on Nikon Speedlights SB-6, SB-7E and SB-8E , accessed April 2011
  6. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Additional info on Nikon Speedlights SB-9 and SB-E , accessed April 2011
  7. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Additional info on Nikon Speedlights SB-10 , accessed April 2011
  8. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Nikon SB-11 - Operational Manual , accessed March 2011
  9. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Nikon SB-12 - User's Manual , accessed March 2011
  10. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Nikon Flash Unit SB-14 Bracket Flash , accessed April 2011
  11. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Nikon Flash Unit SB-140 UV-IR Bracket Flash , accessed April 2011
  12. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Nikon SB-15 / SB-17 - Operational Manual , accessed May 16, 2018
  13. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Nikon SB-16A / B , accessed April 2011
  14. ↑ Photography in Malaysia: Nikon Speedlights SB-18 & SB-19 , accessed April 2011
  15. ↑ Information page about the SB-20 in English , accessed in April 2011
  16. ↑ English-language information page about Nikon SB-1 to SB-21 , accessed in April 2011
  17. ↑ engl. Info page about the SB-22 , accessed in April 2011
  18. ↑ Ken Rockwell website on the SB-22 , accessed April 2011
  19. ↑ info page engl. via the SB-23 , accessed March 2011
  20. ↑ Ken Rockwell website on the SB-23 , accessed April 2011
  21. ^ English-language information page about Nikon SB-24 , accessed April 2011
  22. ↑ info page engl. SB-24 , accessed April 2011
  23. ↑ a b Nikon support page TTL systems  ( page no longer available , search in web archives )  Info: The link was automatically marked as defective. Please check the link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. , accessed April 2011@1@ 2Template: Toter Link / nikoneurope-de.custhelp.com  
  24. ↑ info page engl. SB-25 , accessed April 2011
  25. ↑ Information page in English about the SB-26 , accessed in April 2011
  26. ↑ Another information page about the SB-26 with lots of billing data , accessed in April 2011
  27. ↑ private review page about the SB-26 , accessed in April 2011
  28. ↑ info page engl. SB-27 , accessed April 2011
  29. ↑ Technical data of the SB-28 on the English-language info page , accessed in 2011
  30. ↑ SB-22's subpage of the SB-22's information page , accessed April 2011
  31. ↑ engl. Info page about the SB-29 , accessed April 2011
  32. ^ Info page SB-30 in English , accessed in April 2011
  33. ↑ Instructions for using the wireless flash control in English , accessed April 2011
  34. ↑ Main page of several information pages about the SB-50DX , accessed in April 2011
  35. ↑ Private review of the SB-50DX , accessed April 2011
  36. ↑ Extensive review of the SB-50DX in English ( memento of the original from December 13, 2010 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was automatically inserted and not yet checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. , accessed April 2011 @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.bythom.com
  37. ↑ Report on the SB-400 , accessed April 2011
  38. ↑ Product page of the SB-400 on Nikon.de , accessed in April 2011
  39. ↑ PDF with technical data of the SB-400 ( Memento of the original dated November 13, 2011 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. , accessed April 2011 @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.fotomayr.de
  40. ↑ Product page of the SB-600 , nikon.de, accessed in April 2011
  41. ↑ Information page about the SB-600 , accessed 2011
  42. ↑ Nikon's press release on the SB-700  ( page no longer available , search in web archives )  Info: The link was automatically marked as defective. Please check the link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. , accessed April 2011@1@ 2Template: Dead Link / www.nikon.de  
  43. ↑ Product page of the SB-700 , nikon.de, accessed in April 2011
  44. ↑ Information page about the SB-800 , accessed in October 2013
  45. ↑ Product information page of the SB-800 , Nikon.de, accessed October 2013
  46. ↑ Product page for the SD-9 on the Nikon USA website , accessed April 2011
  47. ↑ Product page of the SB-900 , Nikon.de, accessed in April 2011
  48. ↑ nikon.de
  49. ↑ Product page of the R1C1 , Nikon.de, accessed in April 2011
  50. ↑ Information page about the R1C1 Kit in English by Ken Rockwell , accessed April 2011
  51. ↑ Product page of the SB-N5. Nikon, November 1, 2013, accessed November 11, 2013 .
  52. ↑ Product page of the SB-N7. Nikon, November 1, 2013, accessed November 11, 2013 .