Sekonic FLASHMATE L-308X Exposure Meter User Manual

1. Introducció

The Sekonic FLASHMATE L-308X is a compact and accurate exposure meter designed for both still photographers and filmmakers. It provides precise measurements for ambient and flash lighting, featuring dedicated Photo, Cine, and HD Cine modes. Its portable design and versatile functionality make it an essential tool for achieving optimal exposure in various shooting environments.

Figure 1: Sekonic FLASHMATE L-308X Exposure Meter, front view.

2. Què hi ha a la caixa

Please ensure all items are present upon unboxing your Sekonic FLASHMATE L-308X:

• Sekonic Flashmate L-308X Exposure Meter
• Estoig suau
• Corretja
• Synchro terminal cap
• Instruccions (aquest manual)

3. Configuració

3.1. Instal·lació de la bateria

The L-308X requires AA batteries for operation. Locate the battery compartment on the rear of the device, open it, insert the batteries according to the polarity indicators, and close the compartment securely.

3.2. Sync Port

The meter features a synchro terminal for wired flash triggering. Remove the protective cap to access the port. This allows for direct connection to compatible flash units for precise flash exposure measurements.

Figure 2: Close-up of the lumisphere and mode button.

4. Modes de funcionament

The L-308X offers three primary operating modes: Photo, HD Cine, and Cine. Each mode is tailored for specific photographic and cinematic needs.

4.1. Encendre/apagar

To power on the device, press and hold the power button located on the top left. To power off, press and hold the power button again.

4.2. Selecció de mode

To switch between Photo, HD Cine, and Cine modes, first ensure the device is off. Then, press and hold the MODE button while simultaneously pressing the power button. This will cycle through the available modes. Release the power button once the desired mode is displayed.

4.3. Mode de fotografia

In Photo Mode, the L-308X provides full exposure control for still photography. It displays measurement data for flash and ambient light readings, as well as ambient EV measurement. Both Shutter Priority Mode and Aperture Priority Mode are available.

Figure 3: L-308X display in Photo Mode.

4.4. HD Cine Mode

HD Cine Mode is designed for cinematographers, offering a compact solution for location scouting or quick on-set measurements. Users can select from a range of frame rates and shutter angles, with accuracy to within one-tenth of a stop. The addition of ISO 850 assists in taking measurements in the native ISOs of many professional cinema cameras.

Figure 4: L-308X display in HD Cine Mode.

4.5. Cine Mode

Cine Mode caters to professional digital cinematography. It allows selection of frame rates and shutter angles for precise exposure control with one-tenth stop accuracy. The L-308X also offers Lux (lx) and foot-candle (fc) readouts, facilitating quick lighting setup.

Figure 5: L-308X display in Cine Mode.

4.6. Mesura de la llum ambiental

To measure ambient light, ensure the lumisphere is extended. Point the meter towards the camera position (for incident light) or towards the subject (for reflected light, with lumisphere retracted). Press the measuring button to get a reading.

4.7. Flash Measurement

The L-308X supports both cordless and corded flash measurements.

• Cordless Flash: Select the cordless flash mode. Position the meter and trigger your flash manually. The meter will capture the flash exposure.
• Corded Flash: Connect the meter to your flash unit via the synchro terminal. Select the corded flash mode. Press the measuring button on the meter to trigger the flash and obtain a reading.

4.8. ISO Adjustment

Press the ISO button to enter ISO adjustment mode. Use the up/down arrow buttons on the side to change the ISO sensitivity. The meter supports a wide range of ISO settings, including ISO 850 for cinema cameras.

4.9. Shutter Speed and Aperture Adjustment

Depending on the selected mode (Shutter Priority or Aperture Priority), use the up/down arrow buttons to adjust the desired shutter speed or aperture value. The meter will then display the corresponding complementary exposure value.

4.10. EV Mode

The L-308X can display exposure values (EV). This provides a single numerical representation of light intensity, useful for quick comparisons and consistent lighting setups.

4.11. Exposure Indicator

The meter features an exposure indicator to visually represent the measured light level relative to the set exposure. This helps in fine-tuning settings for optimal results.

4.12. Càrrega

The Sekonic L-308X operates on AA batteries. Ensure fresh batteries are installed for optimal performance. There is no internal rechargeable battery or USB charging port on this model.

5. Manteniment

5.1. Neteja

Wipe the meter's body with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, lightly dampen the cloth with water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep the lumisphere clean and free of dust or smudges to ensure accurate readings.

5.2. Emmagatzematge

When not in use, store the L-308X in its provided soft case to protect it from dust, scratches, and impacts. Remove batteries if the meter will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.

6. Solució De Problemes

• El mesurador no s'encén: Comproveu la instal·lació de les piles i assegureu-vos que les piles siguin noves.
• Lectures inexactes: Ensure the lumisphere is clean and correctly positioned for incident or reflected light. Verify ISO settings match your camera.
• El flaix no s'activa: For corded flash, check the sync cable connection. For cordless, ensure the flash is set to trigger and is within range.

7. Especificacions

8. Garantia i assistència

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Sekonic website. Contact details for customer service are typically provided in the product packaging or on the manufacturer's support pages.