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Cactus V5 User Manual (EN)

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
56 views

Cactus V5 User Manual (EN)

Uploaded by

gprh999
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 16

EXCEPT AS MENTIONED ABOVE, GIVEN BY ANY PERSON OR ENTITY WITH

RESPECT TO THE WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER SHALL BIND HARVEST ONE


LIMITED. HARVEST ONE LIMITED SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR LOSS OF REVENUES
OR PROFITS, INCONVENIENCE, EXPENSE FOR SUBSTITUTE EQUIPMENT OR
SERVICE, STORAGE CHARGES, LOSS OR CORRUPTION OF DATA OR ANY OTHER
SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES CAUSED BY THE USE OR
MISUSE OF, OR INABILITY TO USE, THE WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER,
REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY ON WHICH THE CLAIM IS BASED, AND EVEN
IF HARVEST ONE LIMITED HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL RECOVERY OF ANY KIND AGAINST HARVEST ONE
LIMITED GREATER IN AMOUNT THAN THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE CACTUS
WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER SOLD BY HARVEST ONE LIMITED OR ITS
AUTHORIZED DEALERS AND CAUSING THE ALLEGED DAMAGE. WITHOUT
LIMITING THE FOREGOING, YOU ASSUME ALL RISK AND LIABILITY FOR LOSS,
DAMAGE OR INJURY TO YOU AND YOUR PROPERTY AND TO OTHERS AND THEIR
PROPERTY ARISING OUT OF USE OR MISUSE OF, OR INABILITY TO USE, THE
CACTUS WILRESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER NOT CAUSED DIRECTLY BY THE
NEGLIGENCE OF HARVEST ONE LIMITED. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL NOT
EXTEND TO ANYONE OTHER THAN THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER OF HARVEST ONE
LIMITED, OR THE PERSON FOR WHOM IT WAS PURCHASED AS A GIFT, AND STATES
YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDY.

CORPORATE OFFICE:

Harvest One Limited


9D On Shing Ind. Bldg.,
2-16 Wo Liu Hang Road,
Fo Tan, Hong Kong

Please contact your local dealer for customer services.

WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER V5 DUO


USER MANUAL

© HARVEST ONE LTD. 2013 2nd edition, June 2013


MAIN FEATURES OF CACTUS V5 WARRANTY
Thank you for purchasing Cactus Wireless Flash Transceiver V5 Duo. The limited warranty set forth below is given by Harvest One Limited in
Cactus V5 is a powerful yet stable device that allows you to command the world with respect to the Cactus brand Wireless Flash Transceiver
your light o˜ camera, with no wires. You can position your lights at purchased with this limited warranty.
any angle, direction and distance – the possibilities are endless!
Your Cactus Wireless Flash Transceiver or other contents, when
1. EXCLUSIVE! Frequency Self-Tune (FST) delivered to you in new condition in its original container, is warranted
Cactus V5 intelligently and automatically adjusts its frequency to against defects in materials or workmanship as follows: for a period of
ensure reliable operation under extreme conditions. one (1) year from the date of original purchase, defective parts or a
2. NEW! Support for maximum sync speed defective Wireless Flash Transceiver returned to our authorized dealers,
as applicable, and proven to be defective upon inspection, will be
Cactus V5 is designed and tested to obtain any sync speed, so repaired with new or comparable rebuilt parts or exchanged for a new
long as it is supported by the camera (e.g. 1/1000s for Nikon, Wireless Flash Transceiver as determined by Harvest One Limited or the
1/250 for Canon). authorized dealers.
3. NEW! Multi-channel triggering
Trigger up to 4 sets of °ashes separately or all at once. This limited warranty shall only apply if the Wireless Flash Transceiver is
used in conjunction with compatible camera and °ash equipment, as
4. Solid performance to which items, Harvest One Limited, shall have no responsibility.
Maximum range of 100m (328 ft) and operating temperature of
-20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F). This limited warranty covers all defects encountered in normal use of
5. Transceiver design the Wireless Flash Transceiver, and does not apply in any of the
following cases:
Cactus V5 can be used both as a transmitter or receiver. Operating
mode is changed through a convenient Mode Switch. (a) Loss of or damage to the Wireless Flash Transceiver due to abuse,
mishandling, improper packaging by you, alteration, accident,
6. Multi-functional electrical current °uc tuations.
Cactus V5 can operate as either a wireless °ash transceiver or a (b) Failure to follow operating, maintenance or environmental
wireless camera shutter release (requires optional shutter release instructions prescribed in Cactus user's manual.
cable). (c) Receive services performed by someone other than Harvest One
7. Two hot shoe ports Limited or authorized dealers.
Apart from triggering wireless °ashes, an on-camera °ash can be (d) Without limiting the foregoing, water damage, sand/corrosion
mounted on top of the transmitter for on-axis ÿlls. damage, battery leakage, dropping the transceiver, scratches,
abrasions or damage to the body, or damage to the hot shoe or PC
cables, will be presumed to have resulted from misuse, abuse or
failure to operate the Wireless Flash Transceiver as set forth in the
operating instructions.
NO IMPLIED WARRANTY, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANT-
ABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, APPLIES TO THE WIRELESS
FLASH TRANSCEIVER AFTER THE APPLICABLE PERIOD OF THE EXPRESS LIMITED
WARRANTY STATED ABOVE, AND NO OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTY OR GUARANTY,

2 15
R&TTE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY (DOC) CAUTION AND WARNING
We, Harvest One Limited, 9D On Shing Industrial Building, 2-16 Wo Liu
Hang Road, Fo Tan, Hong Kong, declare under our own responsibility
that the product: Before using your product, read the following safety precautions to
ensure correct and safe use and to help prevent damage of Cactus V5.
CACTUS WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER V5
1. Turn OFF all your equipment (e.g. Cactus units, ˜ash units and
is in conformity with the essential requirements and other relevant cameras, etc.) before changing batteries or making connection.
requirements of the R&TTE Directive (1999/5/EC). Observe the correct polarity when changing batteries. There is
The products are compliant with the following standards and/or other danger of explosion if battery is installed incorrectly.
normative documents: 2. Remove batteries and switch o° the transceiver during storage.
SAFETY EN 50371: 2002 3. Do not permanently store the product in a high temperature
EMC EN301 489-1 V1.8.1 environment (i.e. under strong direct sunlight, near cooking
EN301 489-3 V1.4.1 stoves/oven).
Radio EN300 440-1 V1.5.1
EN300 440-2 V1.3.1 4. Cactus V5 should never be submerged in liquid or exposed to
heavy rain unless it is properly protected.
Supplementary information:
Technical ÿle held by: Harvest One Limited 5. Do not operate the device in the presence of ˜ammable gases or
fumes.
Place and date of issue: Centre Testing International
Corporation, 6. Do not ÿre the ˜ash directly into the eyes of someone at close
Build C, Hongwei Industrial Zone, range.
Baoan 70 District, Shenzhen, China
December 24, 2010
Signed by or for the 24 Dec 2010
MAJOR SPECIFICATIONS
manufacturer:
Name: Ling Wai Kwan Date of Signature Working radio frequency: 2.4 GHz
Title: Director
Number of channels: 16
This product Wireless Flash Transceiver V5 is in
conformity with the provisions of EU Council
Supported sync speed: Up to 1/1000s (subject to camera’s sync
Directive: 1999/5/EC. speed limitation)
E°ective distance: 0.3m – 100m (1 ft - 328 ft)
The crossed-out wheeled bin means that within the
European Union the product must be disposed Operating temperature: -20°C to +50°C (-4°F to 122°F)
separately at the end of product cycle. Do not Flash voltage handling: 0V - 300V
dispose this product with other municipal waste.
Camera voltage handling: 0V - 6V
Power input: 2 x AAA 1.5V batteries
Dimensions: 82mm (L) x 70mm (W) x 37mm (H)
Weight (per transceiver): 58g
14 3
PACKAGE CONTENTS NOTICES
NOTICES FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE U.S.A.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency
Interference Statements
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
V5 Transceiver (x2) Flash Stand FS-5 (x2) limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment o˜ and
* 3.5mm Plug Cable CA-350 (x1) * PC Sync Cable CA-100 (x1) on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit di˜ erent from
that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
HARVEST ONE LIMITED AND THE MANUFACTURER OF THIS WIRELESS
* 6.35mm Plug Adapter PA-635 (x1) AAA Alkaline Battery (x4) FLASH TRANSCEIVER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY RADIO OR TV
INTERFERENCE CAUSED BY UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS TO THIS
EQUIPMENT. SUCH MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER AUTHORITY
TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT
Cactus
V5

FCC ID: VAAWFTV5


MADE IN CHINA
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
"When Light Dances 2" Album (x1) User Manual (x1) 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.
* also available as optional accessories

4 13
3. Flash Not Triggered / Shutter Not Released NOMENCLATURE
LED blinks? Possible Cause Solution
TX: No 1. Poor battery contact or Replace batteries on TX and
RX: No battery out of power on TX retry
2. Shutter speed is faster than Adjust the camera’s shutter
the camera’s x-sync speed to the maximum Test Button
limitation supported x-sync speed
TX: Yes (GREEN) 1. Poor battery contact or Replace batteries on RX and
Status LED
RX: No battery out of power on RX retry Hot Shoe (Female)
2. Channel mismatch Ensure both transceivers are set
to the same channel
3. Background radio Set both transceivers to another
interference channel
Change setup location as
interference may come from
other equipment in the
surrounding area
Battery Compartment
4. Beyond 100m e°ective Make sure TX and RX X-Sync Port
range transceivers are placed within
100m (328 ft) of each other Mode Switch

Note: The effective range of


100m (328 ft) may not be Hot Shoe (Male)
achieved in the presence of
radio interference
Tripod Mount
TX: Yes (GREEN) 1. Poor hot shoe contact Adjust tightness of hot shoe
RX: Yes (GREEN) contact
Remove hot shoe metal plate
Clean hot shoe contact of V5 and
˜ash with clean cloth
2. Flash used is not Check that the ˜ash used is
compatible with V5 compatible with V5 (refer to
Compatibility section of this
user manual)
3. Poor cable connection Check cable connection
Change cable
4. Wrong cable is used (only Ensure that an appropriate Channel Dial
when V5 used Wireless shutter release cable is used
Shutter Release)

12 5
COMPATIBILITY TROUBLESHOOTING
Portable Flashes and Studio Strobe Lights Before reading this section, ensure that Cactus V5 transceivers have
Cactus V5 works with all portable ˜ashes and strobes with triggering been set up correctly (follow the instructions in the Operation section
voltage between 0V - 300V, and equipped with any of the following of this manual).
connection interfaces:
If the problem persists after conducting the troubleshooting steps,
Hot shoe 3.5mm port contact your seller directly for further assistance.
PC sync female 6.35mm port
1. Flash Misÿre (Unexpected Flash Firing)
Cactus V5 is not compatible with reverse polarity ˜ashes and some LED blinks? Possible Cause Solution
dedicated ˜ash models, as indicated in Notes on Dedicated Flash TX: No Poor hot shoe connection Adjust tightness of hot shoe
below. RX: No contact
Remove hot shoe metal plate
! Notes on Dedicated Flash: Clean hot shoe contact of V5
1. Cactus V5 does not transmit TTL information. and ˜ash with clean cloth
2. Connecting Cactus V5 transceiver to a ˜ash with a Sony Alpha TX: No 1. Background radio Set both transceivers to
style hot shoe requires an optional hot shoe adapter (i.e. the RX: Yes (GREEN) interference another channel
“FS-1200 hot shoe adapter”). Change setup location as
interference may come from
3. Some dedicated ˜ashes (e.g. Nissin Di-622 and Di-466, Sunpak
other equipment in the
PZ42x and PZ30, Sigma EF-530/500 DG ST for Canon, etc.) are surrounding area
triggered via system-speciÿc pins instead of the central hot shoe
contact. Cactus V5 does not work with these ˜ash models. To 2. TX and RX transceivers are Place the TX and RX
check whether your dedicated ˜ash unit is compatible with placed too close to each transceivers at least one meter
other apart and retry
Cactus V5, try attaching the ˜ash unit to a camera of another
brand (e.g. attaching a Nikon TTL ˜ash to a Canon DSLR camera).
If the ˜ash can be triggered, it will work with Cactus V5. 2. Slow Synchronization (Delayed Flash)
LED blinks? Possible Cause Solution
Cameras TX: Yes (GREEN) 1. Shutter speed is faster Adjust the camera’s shutter
Cactus V5 works with practically all SLR and DSLR cameras. This RX: Yes (GREEN) than the camera’s x-sync speed to the maximum
includes all cameras that come with (1) a standard ISO hot shoe, limitation supported x-sync speed
and/or (2) a female sync port connection. 2. Radio interference with Ensure ˜ash trigger transceivers
wireless shutter release are set to a di˝erent channel
Other Flash Triggers from that used by wireless
shutter release transceivers
Each Cactus V5 unit is designed to work exclusively with other Cactus
TX or RX: Yes Insu˛cient battery power Replace batteries and retry
V5 units. It is NOT compatible with any other ˜ash trigger, including (RED every 3 secs)
Cactus V2, V2s and V4.

6 11
FREQUENCY SELF-TUNE (FST) OPERATION
A common issue with ˜ash triggering systems is the unintentional As Wireless Flash Transceiver
frequency shift in relation to temperature change. This results in high 1. Install two AAA batteries into each Cactus V5 transceiver. Ensure
failure rate when exposed to extreme weather conditions. Frequency that all plastic battery wrapping is removed and batteries are
Self-Tune (FST) is a new exclusive feature of V5 that minimizes the installed in the correct polarity.
likelihood of misÿres to ensure reliable performance.
Note: Alkaline batteries are recommended. Rechargeable
The concept behind FST is simple – every V5 transceiver is equipped batteries also work but operation time may be reduced.
with a chipset that records the last functioning frequency (i.e. the
frequency level at which V5 works) at di˛erent temperature levels. 2. Set the V5 transceivers to the correct mode (Transmitter to "TX",
When the V5 transceiver is exposed to extreme conditions, it will Receiver to "RX"). This will automatically power on the
self-calibrate to this last working frequency after each ÿring. transceivers.

To take full advantage of this new feature, it is advised that a “test 3. Connect the receiver (RX) to the light source:
ÿring” be done before taking the actual shot. This will ensure that the Portable Flash
V5 transceiver in either Transmitter or Receiver mode will be Connect the hot shoe of the external ˜ash to female hot shoe
calibrated to a functioning frequency, and that important and slot of RX, or use the PC sync cable to connect RX to the ˜ash’s
stunning photographs will not be missed! PC sync port.
FST is especially useful when V5 is exposed to the following extreme Studio Strobe
conditions: Connect RX to your strobe using a 3.5mm plug cable (CA-350) or
with a 6.35mm adapter (PA-635), according to your strobe’s port
1. when operating temperature is <-5°C or >+30°C (<23°F or >86°F); size.
2. when there is a sudden temperature change of larger than 20°C
(68°F) or more. 4. Set both TX and RX to the same channel using the Channel Dial.
For sudden temperature changes larger than 20°C (68°F), it is highly 5. On TX, press the Test button. The status LED of both TX and RX
advised that a series of test ÿrings be done to ensure that V5 is tuned should blink in GREEN simultaneously.
to a functioning frequency. It is suggested that a ÿve-minute interval
6. Attach TX to the camera’s hot shoe. If your camera does not have
or about 5-10 test ÿrings be allowed for V5 to adjust to the new a hot shoe, connect TX to the camera using a PC sync cable
temperature. (CA-100).
7. Press the camera’s shutter release button.

10 7
As Wireless Shutter Release 4. To close the camera shutter, full press and release the Test button
(requires optional shutter release cable) on TX once more. The GREEN status LED on both TX and RX will
blink simultaneously.
! Notes:
This function requires the use of a separately purchased shutter
release cable for connection between the transceiver and camera. This LED SIGNAL OUTLINE
cable is NOT included.
A minimum of two Cactus V5 transceivers are required to operate Transceiver Status Indicator on TX Indicator on RX
Cactus V5 as a wireless shutter release. Flash transceiver mode Green
1. Install two AAA batteries into each Cactus V5 transceiver. Ensure Shutter release mode Green
that all plastic battery wrapping is removed and batteries are
installed in the correct polarity. Half-press auto focus Orange
Green Green
2. Set the V5 transceivers to the correct mode (Transmitter to "TX", Bulb mode activation (for 2 seconds) (continuously after
Receiver to "RX"). This will automatically power on the activation)
transceivers.
Bulb mode closed Green
3. Connect RX to your camera using an appropriate shutter release Red
cable. Low battery on TX None
(every 3 seconds)
4. Set both TX and RX to the same channel using the Channel Dial. Low battery on RX None Red
Ensure the channel set on the wireless shutter release transceivers (every 3 seconds)
is di˜erent from that set on the wireless °ash transceivers (if any).
5. Half press the Test button on TX to auto focus. The status LED on
both TX and RX will turn ORANGE to indicate auto focus. MULTI-CHANNEL TRIGGERING
6. Full press the Test button on TX for shutter release. The status LED
on both transceivers will turn GREEN to indicate shutter release. Multi-channel triggering is a new feature of Cactus V5. With this new
function, you can now trigger up to four (4) sets of °ashes and strobes
separately or all at once.
As Wireless Shutter Release in Bulb Mode
(requires optional shutter release cable) On the side of each V5 transceiver is a rotary Channel Dial with the
numbers 1 to 16 printed, 1 to 5 in blue color, and 6 to 16 in white. The
1. Setup V5 transceivers as Wireless Shutter Release. Channel Dial is used to change the transceiver channel – either in TX
2. Full press and hold the Test button on TX. The status LED on TX or RX mode – from one to another.
will turn GREEN at ÿrst and go o˜ after approximately 2 seconds. To make use of the multi-channel triggering
The camera’s shutter is now in a continually opened state. Note feature, ensure that the TX transceiver is set to
that the RX transceiver’s status LED remains on in GREEN while the Channel 1, while RX transceivers for °ashes and
camera’s shutter is still opened. strobes to be triggered by this TX transceiver is
3. Release the Test button on TX. set to a "channel in blue" (i.e. Channels 1 to 5).

8 9
As Wireless Shutter Release 4. To close the camera shutter, full press and release the Test button
(requires optional shutter release cable) on TX once more. The GREEN status LED on both TX and RX will
blink simultaneously.
! Notes:
This function requires the use of a separately purchased shutter
release cable for connection between the transceiver and camera. This LED SIGNAL OUTLINE
cable is NOT included.
A minimum of two Cactus V5 transceivers are required to operate Transceiver Status Indicator on TX Indicator on RX
Cactus V5 as a wireless shutter release. Flash transceiver mode Green
1. Install two AAA batteries into each Cactus V5 transceiver. Ensure Shutter release mode Green
that all plastic battery wrapping is removed and batteries are
installed in the correct polarity. Half-press auto focus Orange
Green Green
2. Set the V5 transceivers to the correct mode (Transmitter to "TX", Bulb mode activation (for 2 seconds) (continuously after
Receiver to "RX"). This will automatically power on the activation)
transceivers.
Bulb mode closed Green
3. Connect RX to your camera using an appropriate shutter release Red
cable. Low battery on TX None
(every 3 seconds)
4. Set both TX and RX to the same channel using the Channel Dial. Low battery on RX None Red
Ensure the channel set on the wireless shutter release transceivers (every 3 seconds)
is di˜erent from that set on the wireless °ash transceivers (if any).
5. Half press the Test button on TX to auto focus. The status LED on
both TX and RX will turn ORANGE to indicate auto focus. MULTI-CHANNEL TRIGGERING
6. Full press the Test button on TX for shutter release. The status LED
on both transceivers will turn GREEN to indicate shutter release. Multi-channel triggering is a new feature of Cactus V5. With this new
function, you can now trigger up to four (4) sets of °ashes and strobes
separately or all at once.
As Wireless Shutter Release in Bulb Mode
(requires optional shutter release cable) On the side of each V5 transceiver is a rotary Channel Dial with the
numbers 1 to 16 printed, 1 to 5 in blue color, and 6 to 16 in white. The
1. Setup V5 transceivers as Wireless Shutter Release. Channel Dial is used to change the transceiver channel – either in TX
2. Full press and hold the Test button on TX. The status LED on TX or RX mode – from one to another.
will turn GREEN at ÿrst and go o˜ after approximately 2 seconds. To make use of the multi-channel triggering
The camera’s shutter is now in a continually opened state. Note feature, ensure that the TX transceiver is set to
that the RX transceiver’s status LED remains on in GREEN while the Channel 1, while RX transceivers for °ashes and
camera’s shutter is still opened. strobes to be triggered by this TX transceiver is
3. Release the Test button on TX. set to a "channel in blue" (i.e. Channels 1 to 5).

8 9
FREQUENCY SELF-TUNE (FST) OPERATION
A common issue with ˜ash triggering systems is the unintentional As Wireless Flash Transceiver
frequency shift in relation to temperature change. This results in high 1. Install two AAA batteries into each Cactus V5 transceiver. Ensure
failure rate when exposed to extreme weather conditions. Frequency that all plastic battery wrapping is removed and batteries are
Self-Tune (FST) is a new exclusive feature of V5 that minimizes the installed in the correct polarity.
likelihood of misÿres to ensure reliable performance.
Note: Alkaline batteries are recommended. Rechargeable
The concept behind FST is simple – every V5 transceiver is equipped batteries also work but operation time may be reduced.
with a chipset that records the last functioning frequency (i.e. the
frequency level at which V5 works) at di˛erent temperature levels. 2. Set the V5 transceivers to the correct mode (Transmitter to "TX",
When the V5 transceiver is exposed to extreme conditions, it will Receiver to "RX"). This will automatically power on the
self-calibrate to this last working frequency after each ÿring. transceivers.

To take full advantage of this new feature, it is advised that a “test 3. Connect the receiver (RX) to the light source:
ÿring” be done before taking the actual shot. This will ensure that the Portable Flash
V5 transceiver in either Transmitter or Receiver mode will be Connect the hot shoe of the external ˜ash to female hot shoe
calibrated to a functioning frequency, and that important and slot of RX, or use the PC sync cable to connect RX to the ˜ash’s
stunning photographs will not be missed! PC sync port.
FST is especially useful when V5 is exposed to the following extreme Studio Strobe
conditions: Connect RX to your strobe using a 3.5mm plug cable (CA-350) or
with a 6.35mm adapter (PA-635), according to your strobe’s port
1. when operating temperature is <-5°C or >+30°C (<23°F or >86°F); size.
2. when there is a sudden temperature change of larger than 20°C
(68°F) or more. 4. Set both TX and RX to the same channel using the Channel Dial.
For sudden temperature changes larger than 20°C (68°F), it is highly 5. On TX, press the Test button. The status LED of both TX and RX
advised that a series of test ÿrings be done to ensure that V5 is tuned should blink in GREEN simultaneously.
to a functioning frequency. It is suggested that a ÿve-minute interval
6. Attach TX to the camera’s hot shoe. If your camera does not have
or about 5-10 test ÿrings be allowed for V5 to adjust to the new a hot shoe, connect TX to the camera using a PC sync cable
temperature. (CA-100).
7. Press the camera’s shutter release button.

10 7
COMPATIBILITY TROUBLESHOOTING
Portable Flashes and Studio Strobe Lights Before reading this section, ensure that Cactus V5 transceivers have
Cactus V5 works with all portable ˜ashes and strobes with triggering been set up correctly (follow the instructions in the Operation section
voltage between 0V - 300V, and equipped with any of the following of this manual).
connection interfaces:
If the problem persists after conducting the troubleshooting steps,
Hot shoe 3.5mm port contact your seller directly for further assistance.
PC sync female 6.35mm port
1. Flash Misÿre (Unexpected Flash Firing)
Cactus V5 is not compatible with reverse polarity ˜ashes and some LED blinks? Possible Cause Solution
dedicated ˜ash models, as indicated in Notes on Dedicated Flash TX: No Poor hot shoe connection Adjust tightness of hot shoe
below. RX: No contact
Remove hot shoe metal plate
! Notes on Dedicated Flash: Clean hot shoe contact of V5
1. Cactus V5 does not transmit TTL information. and ˜ash with clean cloth
2. Connecting Cactus V5 transceiver to a ˜ash with a Sony Alpha TX: No 1. Background radio Set both transceivers to
style hot shoe requires an optional hot shoe adapter (i.e. the RX: Yes (GREEN) interference another channel
“FS-1200 hot shoe adapter”). Change setup location as
interference may come from
3. Some dedicated ˜ashes (e.g. Nissin Di-622 and Di-466, Sunpak
other equipment in the
PZ42x and PZ30, Sigma EF-530/500 DG ST for Canon, etc.) are surrounding area
triggered via system-speciÿc pins instead of the central hot shoe
contact. Cactus V5 does not work with these ˜ash models. To 2. TX and RX transceivers are Place the TX and RX
check whether your dedicated ˜ash unit is compatible with placed too close to each transceivers at least one meter
other apart and retry
Cactus V5, try attaching the ˜ash unit to a camera of another
brand (e.g. attaching a Nikon TTL ˜ash to a Canon DSLR camera).
If the ˜ash can be triggered, it will work with Cactus V5. 2. Slow Synchronization (Delayed Flash)
LED blinks? Possible Cause Solution
Cameras TX: Yes (GREEN) 1. Shutter speed is faster Adjust the camera’s shutter
Cactus V5 works with practically all SLR and DSLR cameras. This RX: Yes (GREEN) than the camera’s x-sync speed to the maximum
includes all cameras that come with (1) a standard ISO hot shoe, limitation supported x-sync speed
and/or (2) a female sync port connection. 2. Radio interference with Ensure ˜ash trigger transceivers
wireless shutter release are set to a di˝erent channel
Other Flash Triggers from that used by wireless
shutter release transceivers
Each Cactus V5 unit is designed to work exclusively with other Cactus
TX or RX: Yes Insu˛cient battery power Replace batteries and retry
V5 units. It is NOT compatible with any other ˜ash trigger, including (RED every 3 secs)
Cactus V2, V2s and V4.

6 11
3. Flash Not Triggered / Shutter Not Released NOMENCLATURE
LED blinks? Possible Cause Solution
TX: No 1. Poor battery contact or Replace batteries on TX and
RX: No battery out of power on TX retry
2. Shutter speed is faster than Adjust the camera’s shutter
the camera’s x-sync speed to the maximum Test Button
limitation supported x-sync speed
TX: Yes (GREEN) 1. Poor battery contact or Replace batteries on RX and
Status LED
RX: No battery out of power on RX retry Hot Shoe (Female)
2. Channel mismatch Ensure both transceivers are set
to the same channel
3. Background radio Set both transceivers to another
interference channel
Change setup location as
interference may come from
other equipment in the
surrounding area
Battery Compartment
4. Beyond 100m e°ective Make sure TX and RX X-Sync Port
range transceivers are placed within
100m (328 ft) of each other Mode Switch

Note: The effective range of


100m (328 ft) may not be Hot Shoe (Male)
achieved in the presence of
radio interference
Tripod Mount
TX: Yes (GREEN) 1. Poor hot shoe contact Adjust tightness of hot shoe
RX: Yes (GREEN) contact
Remove hot shoe metal plate
Clean hot shoe contact of V5 and
˜ash with clean cloth
2. Flash used is not Check that the ˜ash used is
compatible with V5 compatible with V5 (refer to
Compatibility section of this
user manual)
3. Poor cable connection Check cable connection
Change cable
4. Wrong cable is used (only Ensure that an appropriate Channel Dial
when V5 used Wireless shutter release cable is used
Shutter Release)

12 5
PACKAGE CONTENTS NOTICES
NOTICES FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE U.S.A.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency
Interference Statements
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
V5 Transceiver (x2) Flash Stand FS-5 (x2) limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment o˜ and
* 3.5mm Plug Cable CA-350 (x1) * PC Sync Cable CA-100 (x1) on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit di˜ erent from
that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
HARVEST ONE LIMITED AND THE MANUFACTURER OF THIS WIRELESS
* 6.35mm Plug Adapter PA-635 (x1) AAA Alkaline Battery (x4) FLASH TRANSCEIVER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY RADIO OR TV
INTERFERENCE CAUSED BY UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS TO THIS
EQUIPMENT. SUCH MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER AUTHORITY
TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT
Cactus
V5

FCC ID: VAAWFTV5


MADE IN CHINA
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
"When Light Dances 2" Album (x1) User Manual (x1) 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.
* also available as optional accessories

4 13
R&TTE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY (DOC) CAUTION AND WARNING
We, Harvest One Limited, 9D On Shing Industrial Building, 2-16 Wo Liu
Hang Road, Fo Tan, Hong Kong, declare under our own responsibility
that the product: Before using your product, read the following safety precautions to
ensure correct and safe use and to help prevent damage of Cactus V5.
CACTUS WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER V5
1. Turn OFF all your equipment (e.g. Cactus units, ˜ash units and
is in conformity with the essential requirements and other relevant cameras, etc.) before changing batteries or making connection.
requirements of the R&TTE Directive (1999/5/EC). Observe the correct polarity when changing batteries. There is
The products are compliant with the following standards and/or other danger of explosion if battery is installed incorrectly.
normative documents: 2. Remove batteries and switch o° the transceiver during storage.
SAFETY EN 50371: 2002 3. Do not permanently store the product in a high temperature
EMC EN301 489-1 V1.8.1 environment (i.e. under strong direct sunlight, near cooking
EN301 489-3 V1.4.1 stoves/oven).
Radio EN300 440-1 V1.5.1
EN300 440-2 V1.3.1 4. Cactus V5 should never be submerged in liquid or exposed to
heavy rain unless it is properly protected.
Supplementary information:
Technical ÿle held by: Harvest One Limited 5. Do not operate the device in the presence of ˜ammable gases or
fumes.
Place and date of issue: Centre Testing International
Corporation, 6. Do not ÿre the ˜ash directly into the eyes of someone at close
Build C, Hongwei Industrial Zone, range.
Baoan 70 District, Shenzhen, China
December 24, 2010
Signed by or for the 24 Dec 2010
MAJOR SPECIFICATIONS
manufacturer:
Name: Ling Wai Kwan Date of Signature Working radio frequency: 2.4 GHz
Title: Director
Number of channels: 16
This product Wireless Flash Transceiver V5 is in
conformity with the provisions of EU Council
Supported sync speed: Up to 1/1000s (subject to camera’s sync
Directive: 1999/5/EC. speed limitation)
E°ective distance: 0.3m – 100m (1 ft - 328 ft)
The crossed-out wheeled bin means that within the
European Union the product must be disposed Operating temperature: -20°C to +50°C (-4°F to 122°F)
separately at the end of product cycle. Do not Flash voltage handling: 0V - 300V
dispose this product with other municipal waste.
Camera voltage handling: 0V - 6V
Power input: 2 x AAA 1.5V batteries
Dimensions: 82mm (L) x 70mm (W) x 37mm (H)
Weight (per transceiver): 58g
14 3
MAIN FEATURES OF CACTUS V5 WARRANTY
Thank you for purchasing Cactus Wireless Flash Transceiver V5 Duo. The limited warranty set forth below is given by Harvest One Limited in
Cactus V5 is a powerful yet stable device that allows you to command the world with respect to the Cactus brand Wireless Flash Transceiver
your light o˜ camera, with no wires. You can position your lights at purchased with this limited warranty.
any angle, direction and distance – the possibilities are endless!
Your Cactus Wireless Flash Transceiver or other contents, when
1. EXCLUSIVE! Frequency Self-Tune (FST) delivered to you in new condition in its original container, is warranted
Cactus V5 intelligently and automatically adjusts its frequency to against defects in materials or workmanship as follows: for a period of
ensure reliable operation under extreme conditions. one (1) year from the date of original purchase, defective parts or a
2. NEW! Support for maximum sync speed defective Wireless Flash Transceiver returned to our authorized dealers,
as applicable, and proven to be defective upon inspection, will be
Cactus V5 is designed and tested to obtain any sync speed, so repaired with new or comparable rebuilt parts or exchanged for a new
long as it is supported by the camera (e.g. 1/1000s for Nikon, Wireless Flash Transceiver as determined by Harvest One Limited or the
1/250 for Canon). authorized dealers.
3. NEW! Multi-channel triggering
Trigger up to 4 sets of °ashes separately or all at once. This limited warranty shall only apply if the Wireless Flash Transceiver is
used in conjunction with compatible camera and °ash equipment, as
4. Solid performance to which items, Harvest One Limited, shall have no responsibility.
Maximum range of 100m (328 ft) and operating temperature of
-20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F). This limited warranty covers all defects encountered in normal use of
5. Transceiver design the Wireless Flash Transceiver, and does not apply in any of the
following cases:
Cactus V5 can be used both as a transmitter or receiver. Operating
mode is changed through a convenient Mode Switch. (a) Loss of or damage to the Wireless Flash Transceiver due to abuse,
mishandling, improper packaging by you, alteration, accident,
6. Multi-functional electrical current °uc tuations.
Cactus V5 can operate as either a wireless °ash transceiver or a (b) Failure to follow operating, maintenance or environmental
wireless camera shutter release (requires optional shutter release instructions prescribed in Cactus user's manual.
cable). (c) Receive services performed by someone other than Harvest One
7. Two hot shoe ports Limited or authorized dealers.
Apart from triggering wireless °ashes, an on-camera °ash can be (d) Without limiting the foregoing, water damage, sand/corrosion
mounted on top of the transmitter for on-axis ÿlls. damage, battery leakage, dropping the transceiver, scratches,
abrasions or damage to the body, or damage to the hot shoe or PC
cables, will be presumed to have resulted from misuse, abuse or
failure to operate the Wireless Flash Transceiver as set forth in the
operating instructions.
NO IMPLIED WARRANTY, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANT-
ABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, APPLIES TO THE WIRELESS
FLASH TRANSCEIVER AFTER THE APPLICABLE PERIOD OF THE EXPRESS LIMITED
WARRANTY STATED ABOVE, AND NO OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTY OR GUARANTY,

2 15
EXCEPT AS MENTIONED ABOVE, GIVEN BY ANY PERSON OR ENTITY WITH
RESPECT TO THE WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER SHALL BIND HARVEST ONE
LIMITED. HARVEST ONE LIMITED SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR LOSS OF REVENUES
OR PROFITS, INCONVENIENCE, EXPENSE FOR SUBSTITUTE EQUIPMENT OR
SERVICE, STORAGE CHARGES, LOSS OR CORRUPTION OF DATA OR ANY OTHER
SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES CAUSED BY THE USE OR
MISUSE OF, OR INABILITY TO USE, THE WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER,
REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY ON WHICH THE CLAIM IS BASED, AND EVEN
IF HARVEST ONE LIMITED HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL RECOVERY OF ANY KIND AGAINST HARVEST ONE
LIMITED GREATER IN AMOUNT THAN THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE CACTUS
WIRELESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER SOLD BY HARVEST ONE LIMITED OR ITS
AUTHORIZED DEALERS AND CAUSING THE ALLEGED DAMAGE. WITHOUT
LIMITING THE FOREGOING, YOU ASSUME ALL RISK AND LIABILITY FOR LOSS,
DAMAGE OR INJURY TO YOU AND YOUR PROPERTY AND TO OTHERS AND THEIR
PROPERTY ARISING OUT OF USE OR MISUSE OF, OR INABILITY TO USE, THE
CACTUS WILRESS FLASH TRANSCEIVER NOT CAUSED DIRECTLY BY THE
NEGLIGENCE OF HARVEST ONE LIMITED. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL NOT
EXTEND TO ANYONE OTHER THAN THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER OF HARVEST ONE
LIMITED, OR THE PERSON FOR WHOM IT WAS PURCHASED AS A GIFT, AND STATES
YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDY.

CORPORATE OFFICE:

Harvest One Limited


11D, Blk 2,
Koon Wah Mirror Factory (6th) Ind. Bldg.,
7-9 Ho Tin St,
Tuen Mun, Hong Kong

Please contact your local dealer for customer services.

USER MANUAL

© HARVEST ONE LTD. 2013 2nd edition, June 2013

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