1
Power Pack P8
Operating Instructions
Issue: 24.04.2017
Table of Contents
2
Preface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
About these instructions and manufacturer information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Keep the instructions accessible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Manufacturer’s contact information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Text features used in this manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Warning features used in this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Features indicating material damage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Intended use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Fundamental safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Components and scope of delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Task and Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Unpacking the Power Pack P8 and checking the scope of delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Preparing the product for use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Insert the power sources into the battery compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Connecting the Power Pack P8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Switching the Power Pack P8 on and off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Operation of the Power Pack P8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
After use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Removing the power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Taking care and cleaning the Power Pack P8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Storing and carrying the Power Pack P8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Battery disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Disposal of the Power Pack P8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
In Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Outside Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Guarantee Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Who to contact if service is required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
About these instructions and manufacturer information
3
Preface
Thank you for your purchase of a quality product “Made in Germany” by Metz.
We are happy to welcome you as a new customer.
Of course, you cannot wait to start working with the video light.
However, it is worthwhile reading the operating instructions, as this is the only way to
learn how to handle the device according to its intended use.
About these instructions and manufacturer information
This guide will help you to use the Power Pack P8 safely.
Keep the instructions accessible
A quick guide (brief instructions) and the material safety data sheet are included with the
product.
Ø Always store these documents with the product.
Ø Please pass on these documents to the next owner when selling or when distributing
the product in any other way.
Manufacturer’s contact information
Metz mecatech GmbH
Ohmstraße 55
90513 Zirndorf, Germany
Tel.: +49-911-9706-0
E-Mail: info@metz-mecatech.de
Internetadresse: www.metz-mecatech.de
About these instructions and manufacturer information
4
Text features used in this manual
The various elements in these instructions follow predefined features. Here is how you
can easily distinguish the following elements:
normal text
Ø Actions to be taken
• List of the first level
Cross references
i Tips contain additional information, such as special information about the Power
Pack P8.
Warning features used in this manual
This manual contains the following warnings:
Features indicating material damage
DANGER
WARNING
Instructions with the word DANGER warn of a dangerous situation that will
cause death or serious injuries.
Instructions with the word WARNING warn of a dangerous situation that poten-
tially may lead to death or serious injuries.
CAUTION
Instructions with the word CAUTION warn of a dangerous situation that poten-
tially may lead to slight or minor injuries.
ATTENTION!
This information warns of a situation that may cause material damage.
5
Safety
Safety
Intended use
The Power Pack P8 is intended explicitly designed for the use in the photographic field
and to operate the digital mecablitz 64 AF-1 flash unit.
In order to provide low voltage supply with operating voltage (4.8 V to 6.0 V), batteries
or rechargeable batteries must also be inserted into the flash unit.
Intended use also includes reading and understanding of these instructions as well as
the compliance and observance of all information in this manual, in particular the safety
instructions. In addition, the safety instructions as well as all other information in these
instructions for the cameras and flash units used must be observed.
Any other use is expressly considered to be non-intended and shall deem the guarantee
and liability claim null and void.
Fundamental safety instructions
Avoid explosions in explosion-hazardous areas
The Power Pack P8 comes properly packaged.
Ø The device must not be operated near flammable gases or liquids (gasoline, solvents,
etc.). Flashlights must not be used! EXPLOSION HAZARD
Ø The device must never be used in these areas!
Ø Do not use a flashlight in these areas!
Prevent suffocation
The Power Pack P8 contains small parts. Children can swallow the small parts and
suffocate.
Ø Ensure to keep the Power Pack P8 out of reach of children.
Prevent serious eye injuries
Triggering the flash near the eyes of humans and animals can damage the retinal and can
severely damage the vision, or cause blindness.
Ø Do not use a flash near someone’s eyes!
Risks due to unauthorised repairs
If the housing has been damaged to such an extent that internal parts are exposed, the
device must not be operated. Remove the batteries!
Also observe the safety precautions in the operating manual of your flash device!
Do not disassemble the device! HIGH VOLTAGE!
There are no components inside the device interior, which can be repaired by a lay
person.
Ø Only qualified personnel shall be permitted to repair the P8!
6
Safety
Avoiding material damage and malfunctions
Avoid damage to property due to incorrect power supply
The Power Pack P8 can be operated using the following standard and high-quality batte-
ries:
• Nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries 1.2 V, type IEC HR6 (AA/Mignon).
• Alkali-manganese dry batteries 1.5 V, type IEC LR6 (AA/Mignon).
Ø Use only the above-mentioned power sources.
The use of other sources may result in damage to the equipment or power sources.
.
Avoid property damage due to improper handling of the batteries or rechargeable batteries
Incorrect handling of power sources can lead to property damage.
Ø The Power Pack P8 can be equipped with either 4 or 8 batteries or rechargeable batte-
ries. Always use only 4 batteries of the same type, in each group (A or B), provided by
the same manufacturer, equivalent capacity (mAh) or equivalent power class, and
with the same charge level.
Ø When inserting the batteries or rechargeable batteries, ensure the correct polarity
according to the symbols in the battery slot. Using the wrong polarity can destroy the
device! Risk of explosion if the batteries are not used correctly.
Ø Always change all cells of a group (A or B) at once or simultaneously!.
Ø Do not mix fully charged cells with spent cells within a group (A or B)!
Ø The equipped battery compartment may only be stored or transported in the Power
Pack P8! Otherwise there is a danger of a short circuit!
Ø Rechargeable batteries must be removed from the device for charging!
Ø Use only suitable loading devices to charge rechargeable batteries!
Ø Do not recharge dry batteries!
Ø Do not throw batteries into the fire!
Ø Do not short-circuit batteries!
Ø Do not use damaged batteries! The insulating jacket of batteries must not be
damaged! Risk of short circuiting!
Ø Do not expose batteries to excessive heat such as direct sunlight, fire or the like!
Ø Lye may leak from spent batteries, resulting in damage to the contacts or the device.
Always remove spent batteries from the device!
Ø If the device is not used for a longer period, remove the batteries!
Damage to property due to rain, fumes, heat, and humidity
Rain, fumes, heat and humidity can damage the Power Pack P8.
Ø Do not expose the device to dripping or splashing water (for example, rain) or fumes.
Ø Protect the device from excessive heat and high humidity. Do not store the device in
the glove compartment of the car or expose it to excessive sunlight (for example, on
the dashboard or hat rack in the car)!
ATTENTION!
Do not insert lithium batteries into the battery compartment of the
Power Pack P8!
7
Avoid damage to the material due to moisture/condensation
Ø Rapid temperature changes can cause moisture/condensation.
Allow the device to acclimatize!
Avoid damage to property due to incorrect accessories
Using the Power Pack P8 with the wrong accessories may result in property damage.
Ø Use the device only with the accessories recommended in the operating instructions!
Avoid malfunctions due to dirt accumulation
Dirty contacts of the connection cable, the battery compartment or the connection socket
in the flash unit can lead to a malfunction.
Ø Ensure to keep dirt away from the contacts of the connection cable, the battery
compartment or the connection socket in the flash unit!
Avoid damage to property due to incorrect cleaning
Improper cleaning can damage the Power Pack P8.
Ø Only use a dry soft cloth (e.g.: microfiber cloth) for cleaning purposes.
Ø Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the device.
Safety
8
Description
Description
Components and scope of delivery
The Power Pack P8 comes properly packaged. The components shown below are
included in the delivery.
No. Description
Power Pack P8 with integrated battery compartment and connection cable
Carrying case
Knurled thumb screw
Opening for knurled thumb screw
Safety data sheet (omitted for clarity)
Quick guide (omitted for clarity)
Discription
9
No. Description
Power Pack P8 housing
Battery compartment
Carrying case
Knurled thumb screw
Feedthrough for knurled thumb screw
Release button for battery compartment
Battery compartment lid
Control LED for batteries or rechargeable batteries of Group A
Control LED for batteries or rechargeable batteries of Group B
햻 Connector for Power Pack socket of the flash unit
A
B
햻
10
Discription
Task and Function
The Power Pack P8 is used in the photographic field for the external power supply of the
Metz digital mecablitz 64 AF-1 with high voltage 330 Volt.
In order to supply the above-mentioned flash unit (operating voltage 4.8 V to 6.0 V),
with low voltage, the batteries or rechargeable batteries must also be inserted into the
flash unit and the main switch should be used to turn on the flash unit.
i The Power Pack P8 is not intended for other flash units.
The Power Pack P8 has two generator parts or DC voltage converters (A and B), which are
independent of each other. They generate the energy or the high voltage of 330 volts for
the flash capacitor in the digital mecablitz 64 AF-1.
The Power Pack P8 is connected to the socket of the digital mecablitz 64 AF-1 with the
plug of the integrated connection cable.
The Power Pack P8 has a pull-out and replaceable battery compartment for 2 x 4 batteries
or batteries of sizes AA and Mignon.
The battery compartment of the Power Pack P8 can be equipped with either 4 or 8 batte-
ries or rechargeable batteries.
i Always use only 4 or 8 batteries of the same type, provided by the same manufac-
turer, equivalent capacity (mAh) or equivalent power class, and with the same charge
level.
If necessary, always change all 4 or 8 cells at once or simultaneously! Do not mix fully
charged cells with spent cells — even within groups!
Technical data
Flash sequence time and flash number of the digital mecablitz 64 AF-1:
Since the flash unit as well as the Power Pack P8 can be operated with a variety of diffe-
rent power sources, it is not possible to specify the flash sequence times and flash
number.
However, the flash time of the digital mecablitz 64 AF-1 with the Power Pack P8 can be
halved approximately.
The flash number of the digital mecablitz 64 AF-1 can increase to triple with the Power
Pack P8
Dimensions (W x H x D): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . approx. 170 mm x 72.5 mm x 25 mm
Weight (without batteries or rechargeable batteries)
. approx. 200 g
Storage conditions: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . dry and sheltered from the weather
Unpacking the Power Pack P8 and checking the scope
of delivery
Ø Remove the product from its packaging.
Ø Check the scope of delivery for correctness and completeness, see section Overview
Scope of delivery, starting at page 7.
Ø In case of deviations, please contact your dealer.
Usage
11
Preparing the product for use
Insert the power sources into the
battery compartment
To insert the power sources into the battery
compartment, proceed as follows:
Ø Press the release button
in the in the
center of the battery compartment lid and
slide the battery compartment lid to the
side.
Ø Then, pull out the battery compartment
from the housing of the Power Pack 8.
Ø Insert the batteries or rechargeable batteries according to the (+) and (-) symbols into
the battery compartment.
First, press the negative (-) pole and then the positive (+) pole of the battery or rechar-
geable battery into the receiving slot of the battery compartment.
Ø Insert either 4 or 8 batteries or rechargeable batteries into the battery slot. The indivi-
dual batteries or rechargeable batteries of Group A and Group B must be from the
same manufacturer, of the same type and with the same charge state. Cells with
unequal charge levels must not be mixed – even in groups.
Risk of fire and explosion due to mixed operation!
Ø Make sure the battery slot and the Power Pack P8 housing are in line. Then, slide the
battery compartment into the Power Pack P8 housing.
The battery compartment is spring-loaded. As a result, pushing the compartment into
the housing of the Power Pack P8 requires slight pressure.
When the battery compartment lid of the battery compartment is in the locked posi-
tion, the battery compartment cannot be fully inserted into the cabinet. Use the
release button to unlock the battery compartment lid, then slide the battery compart-
ment lid to the side. Subsequently, the battery compartment can be fully inserted and
locked into the Power Pack P8 housing.
ATTENTION !
If dropped or bumped, this can damage the Power Pack P8.
Ø Avoid dropping or bumping the device.
ATTENTION !
Incorrect handling of power sources can lead to property damage.
Ø Use only the power sources recommended in this manual.
Ø When inserting the power sources, ensure the correct polarity according to
the symbols in the battery slot.
Usage
12
Power Pack P8
connection plug on
the mecablitz 64AF-1
Connecting the Power Pack P8
Ø Insert the plug of the integrated connection cable into the connection socket of the
digital mecablitz 64 AF-1.
• Batteries or rechargeable batteries must be installed into the battery compartment
of the digital mecablitz 64 AF-1.
Switching the Power Pack P8 on and off
Ø The digital mecablitz 64 AF-1 flash unit, which is connected to the Power Pack P8,
automatically activates or powers on the Power Pack P8 as soon as the main switch is
used to turn on the mecablitz.
Ø The Power Pack P8 is automatically switched off as soon as the connected flash unit
is switched off with its main switch or if the connected flash unit is automatically swit-
ched to the power-saving standby mode. The Power Pack P8 is automatically reacti-
vated or switched on again as soon as the flash unit is reactivated from the standby
state with its wake-up function.
Operation of the Power Pack P8
The Power Pack P8 can be stored in the supplied pouch during operation:
Ø Ensure that the bottom of the pouch is tightly closed with the snap closure.
i The bottom of the pouch can be opened with the snap button to remove or replace
the battery compartment of the Power Pack P8 without removing the Power Pack P8
from the pouch.
Ø Open the Velcro closure on the top of the pouch and insert the Power Pack P8 into the
pouch so that the integrated LEDs of the Power Pack P8 can also be seen through the
openings of the closed cover of the pouch. Then, close the Velcro closure of the
pouch.
Ø The Power Pack P8 can be used with the belt loop on the back of the pouch. e.g., on
the belt of the trousers, or can be attached vertically.
The Power Pack P8 can be attached to the tripod at the bottom of the camera. To do this,
use the knurled thumb screw from the scope of supply. The function depends on the
camera.
i The pouch cannot be used when the Power Pack P8 is installed directly underneath
the camera.
13
Usage
i When operating the P8 with 8 batteries/rechargeable batteries or two DC converters,
the maximum number of flashes that can be emitted is increased and the maximum
flashing time is reduced compared to the operation with 4 batteries/rechargeable
batteries.
When operating the mecablitz with the Power Pack P8, the energy for the flash capacitor
is normally obtained from the Power Pack P8 only in the basic setting of the mecablitz.
The batteries/rechargeable batteries inserted into the mecablitz, supply only the low
energy range of the low voltage range of the flash unit (micro controller with periphery
and user interface, etc.).
If the Power Pack P8 is connected to the mecablitz, it is automatically switched on or
activated as soon as the main switch is used to turn on the mecablitz. An additional
setting for activating the Power Pack P8 on the flash unit is not required.
i If required or upon request, the internal DC voltage converter of the mecablitz can
also be connected to the power supply of the flash capacitor during operation with
the P8. This ensures that a total of 3 DC voltage converters provide the power energy
for the flash capacitor in the mecablitz. This increases again the number of flashes
and ensures the shortest possible flash sequence times
While the DC voltage converter of the Power Pack P8 charges the flash capacitor of the
mecablitz, the Power Plot P8 indicator LED corresponding to the DC voltage converter (A
or B) flashes.
When both DC converters of the Power Pack P8 charge the flash capacitor, both indicator
LEDs (A and B) of the Power Pack P8 flash.
i As soon as the flash capacitor of the mecablitz is charged and the mecablitz green
flashing ready indicator of the mecablitz is lit, the LED indicators go out on the
Power Pack P8.
After the flashing, the indicator LED of the respective DC voltage converter flashes
again until the flash capacitor in the mecablitz is charged or recharged.
When the Power Pack P8 is switched on, no special operating display is indicated for
its operation on the Power Pack P8 and the mecablitz as soon as the flash capacitor is
charged in the mecablitz.
POWERPACK
O
POWERPACK
O
Usage
14
After use
Removing the power sources
Ø Disconnect the power supply from the product.
Ø Remove inserted batteries or rechargeable batteries.
Ø Recharge the batteries if necessary, as described in the battery instructions.
Taking care and cleaning the Power Pack P8
To clean or maintain the Power Pack P8, proceed as follows:
Ø When cleaning and taking care of the unit, only use a dry soft cloth
(e.g.: microfiber cloth).
Ø Contact your dealer if you cannot remove dirt in this way.
Storing and carrying the Power Pack P8
Ø Always carry the Power Pack P8 in the supplied pouch.
Ø Disconnect the Power Pack P8 before transporting it over long distances and storing it
near the flash unit.
Ø Store the Power Pack P8 in locations that are not exposed to heat or moisture.
Ø Store and transport the product and ensure to avoid bumps and impacts.
ATTENTION!
Leaking batteries can damage the product.
Ø Remove the power sources if the product is not used for a long period of
time.
ATTENTION !
Improper cleaning can damage the Power Pack P8:
Ø Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the Power Pack P8
Ø Clean the product only as described in this manual.
ATTENTION !
Incorrect storage or carrying may damage the product.
Ø Carry and store the product only as described in this manual.
Disponal
15
Battery disposal
Spent batteries must not be disposed with household waste. When returning spent
batteries/rechargeable batteries use an approved recycling system.
Only return fully discharged batteries/rechargeable batteries. As a rule, batteries are
considered discharged when the device operated with this battery
– does not operate properly after prolonged use of the batteries.
To prevent a short circuit, the battery terminals must be covered with an adhesive strip.
Germany: As a consumer, you are legally obliged to return spent batteries. You can
dispose of your old batteries wherever the batteries were purchased free of charge. You
may also take them to public collection points in your city or county.
These symbols can be found on all batteries containing hazardous substances:
Pb = Battery contains lead
Cd = Battery contains cadmium
Hg = Battery contains mercury
Li = Battery contains lithium
Disposal of the Power Pack P8
In Europe
Ø Properly sort the packaging of the P8 and then dispose of it. Use the local services for
collecting paper, cardboard and light packaging.
Ø Dispose of the P8 together with the spent batteries and rechargeable batteries sepa-
rately from household waste. Information on collection points, which receive old
equipment free of charge, can be obtained from your municipality and city admini-
stration.
Note: Within the context of the CE mark, the correct exposure was evaluated during
the EMC test.
Outside Europe
Ø Dispose of the P8 according to local regulations.
Ø If in doubt, contact Metz mecatech GmbH.
Misprints and errors are reserved!
Guarantee Provisions
16
Guarantee Provisions
Federal Republic of Germany
1. The guarantee provisions apply exclusively to purchases made in the Federal Republic
of Germany.
2. The guarantee regulations of the respective country or the warranty regulations of the
seller apply abroad.
3. The following provisions are only valid for private use.
4. The guarantee period – 24 months – begins with the conclusion of the purchase
contract or with the date of delivery of the device to the buyer (end user).
5. Warranty claims can be claimed only upon proof of the date of purchase by submitting
the original purchase order created by the seller.
6. We ask you to return the defective equipment together with the purchase slip either to
the dealer or directly to Metz mecatech GmbH Zentralkundendienst, Ohmstraße 55,
9o513 Zirndorf in a safe and secure manner and a detailed description of the
complaint. Return and shipping are at the risk of the buyer.
7. The guarantee is that equipment which has become defective because of a recognized
factory or material defect is repaired free of charge or, if the cost of the repair is dispro-
portionate. Any further liability, in particular for damages which are not caused by the
device itself, is excluded. This does not apply, insofar as in the case of willful intent or
gross negligence. Warranty claims do not extend the warranty period nor does it create
a new warranty period for the replaced or reworked parts.
8. Improper handling and intervention by the buyer or third parties excludes the warranty
obligations as well as all further claims.
Excluded from the guarantee are also damages or faults that have arisen by ignoring
the instructions for use, mechanical damage, leaking batteries or by force majeure,
water, lightning, etc. Furthermore, the warranty does not cover wear, normal consump-
tion or excessive use.
The following parts are particularly affected: Contacts, integrated connection cable
with connector plugs
9. These warranty provisions do not affect the buyer's warranty claims against the seller.
Metz mecatech GmbH
Ohmstraße 55
D-90513 Zirndorf/Germany
www.metz-mecatech.de
Who to contact if service is required
Ø If problems arise during the use of the P8, contact Metz mecatech GmbH immediately.
Metz mecatech hereby declares that this device is in compliance with the essential requi-
rements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC. The conformity declara-
tion according to the R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC can be found under:
www.metz-mecatech.de
/