Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Ok, I've gone over the included manuals a dozen times I've got the Cyber Commander and CST combo and can't figure out how to fire the camera (Nikon D200) as advertised literature and included manuals promote.

also can't figure out how to take (up to ) 1000 of sec high speed flash shot to freeze action keep getting the black bars (not synched)

Help? thanks



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The CyberSync system was designed with the sole intention of triggering flash units (ours, in particular). This involves closing a circuit. Remote shutter releases also perform the function of closing a shutter. The CyberSyncs close a circuit, which just so happens can be used to fire most other flashes and some cameras. However, since each camera or flash unit may have different requirements, we cannot globally guarantee or gurantee support for these functions. We do mention the possibility of compatability, but "promoting" this is something we are careful to not do, as we cannot account for everything a camera manufacturer may do.

What I can say is this: A Cyber Commander and CyberSync transmitter alone will not perform this task. A CSRB is required to be connected to the remote jack of the camera (via a special cable, not available through us) in order for the system to trigger the shutter. In some cases, a CSRB+ can work, however, not with Nikon or Pentax cameras.

What we do promote with the CC and CST combo is to keep the CST in the hotshoe to actually fire the lights when the camera is triggered (by the shutter button or other appropriate means). In this case, the CC would be used to make adjustments to the lights and hand held. This will not trigger the camera, and will require remotes on the lights. This allows for easier manipulation and metering with the Cyber Commander.

As for the black bands: All SLRs have a maximum shutter speed at which neither shutter curtain covers any part of the frame. This is traditionally known as "x-sync". This is the absolute fastest shutter speed you can fire studio flash and get an evenly illuminated frame, or one without black bars. This is a limitation of the camera, and will vary from camera to camera, but yours should be 1/250 (some users can get 1/320). Some cameras also use an electronic shutter, which does not actually incorporate shutter blades, but activate and deactivate the sensor as a whole. Other types of cameras use a leaf shutter, which can reach 1/500 x-sync.

Radio remotes will introduce a delay when triggered. Some units have longer delays than others. Some cheap triggers will introduce a delay that can drop the speed down to 1/60 in some cases. We advertise up to 1/2500 possible sync speed, with capable cameras. This is not to imply it is possible with any one camera, but that it will not be the limiting factor in the shutter speed at which you can sync with flash as long as you are not exceeding 1/2500".

In short, you cannot shoot past 1/250 or 1/320 with the equipment you describe.

Firing a camera remotely along with wireless triggering of flashes introduces another level of remotes, which can also be explained if you wish.