DPCAV ShutterBug Pro User manual

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 1 Sep-15-2013
Figure 3, Shutter Servo
S HUTTER B UG P RO
Digital Camera Controller
ShutterBug Pro is a tiny accessory that helps take digital or film
camera snapshots. It is ideal for photographers that need to
remotely snap photos or require an intervalometer timer.
Despite its tiny size, it is packed with features.
FEATURE SUMMARY
#Remote shutter activation using a model hobby R/C receiver (not included).
#Standalone intervalometer operation using a flexible internal timer.
#Auto-Sequence shutter control for continuous snapshots.
#Supports two-stage (focus/snapshot) shutter operation.
#Compatible with R/C servos for mechanical shutter operation.
#Direct connect shutter interface uses safe solid state switches.
#Digital camera “keep awake” function.
#Operates on 3.3VDC to 5.4VDC (typical R/C servo voltage).
#Low current draw. 2mA idle, 35mA (plus servo) during snapshot.
#Weighs ~four grams, size 0.9" x 1.2"
WHAT IS IT?
ShutterBug Pro is a convenient accessory for expanding a camera’s shutter features. It
precisely operates the focus and shutter stages upon a timed event or remote control signal. It
can even auto-repeat the shutter for a rapid series of shots. It also can be used to prevent a
digital camera from turning itself off, which is a real lifesaver in some applications.
A hobby R/C servo (not included) is used to activate the camera’s shutter button. Direct wire
interfacing is possible too. For wireless remote photography, ShutterBug Pro is compatible with
many popular model hobby R/C systems.
The photo on the left shows a small blue servo installed on a
digital camera. In this installation the R/C servo was mounted
using double sided foam tape (so it can be removed without
damaging the camera). The servo’s rotating arm is carefully
positioned above the shutter button.
Please keep in mind that each camera will be different. So
some mechanical trickery is often needed to accommodate
the servo. Just use your creativity to devise a reliable
mounting arrangement.

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 2 Sep-15-2013
Figure 4, ShutterBug works with model
R/C systems.
Figure 5, Battery and External Trigger
Switch Wiring
SHUTTER ACTIVATION FEATURES
The shutter cycle can be configured to partially depress the shutter button, wait for the camera
to focus, then snap the photo. At the end of the shutter action, it can be configured to [1]
release the shutter until the next snapshot event, [2] rapidly auto sequence the shutter, or [3]
hold the shutter button down continuously.
SHUTTER TRIGGER METHODS
There are four ways to take a snapshot.
T IMED E VENT (S TAND -A LONE I NTERVALOMETER O PERATION ):
A user-programmable timer is available for time lapse photography. The timer has three
ranges: 1-120 seconds, 1-120 minutes, or 1-120 hours. Please see Figure 4 for battery
connections.
P USH B UTTON S WITCH :
The onboard pushbutton switch can be manually pressed to snap a photo. This is ideal
for testing your camera setup. It is available in
all modes of operation.
W
IRELESS REMOTE C ONTROL :
ShutterBug Pro’s 3-wire cable can be plugged
into a spare channel of a model R/C receiver
(not included). Brands such as JR, Futaba,
Hitec, and Airtronics are compatible.
You may use a stick, knob, or switch on your
R/C transmitter. Of course, the R/C receiver’s
unused servo channels are available to you,
too.
Note: If you are using an R/C transmitter with Dual
Rates or End Point mixes, set them to ±100%.
W IRED REMOTE C ONTROL : Some applications may need to externally trigger a
snapshot using a simple switch interface. ShutterBug
Pro’s 3-wire cable can be controlled by a switch,
relay, or electronic logic signal. The photo on the
right shows how an external switch is wired. When
the orange wire is “grounded,” the shutter is
triggered.

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 3 Sep-15-2013
Figure 6, Servo Connector
INSTALLATION
ShutterBug Pro is compatible with R/C servo-activated shutters and direct (hardwired)
connections. The servo method is the most popular because it does not require camera
disassembly or modification.
S ERVO M ETHOD
As mentioned, a standard R/C servo can be controlled from ShutterBug Pro’s timer
feature or it can be remotely activated using a model R/C system. Servos are available
from R/C model hobby shops. For example, the tiny Hitec HS-55 is low cost and a
popular choice. How you mount it is up to you.
To install the servo on ShutterBug Pro, simply plug it into
the 3-pin connector. The servo cable’s Signal (yellow, or
white) wire is positioned so that it is closest to the outside
edge. The servo is then mounted on the camera with
adhesive or double sided foam tape. The goal is to have
the servo arm press the shutter button, so your
installation should allow that.
D IRECT C ONNECT M ETHOD
Note: The direct connection method requires delicate electronic soldering, and difficult
modifications to your digital camera that will void the warranty. You, and only you, are
responsible for any damage that may occur in your attempt to modify your camera. Do this
installation at your own risk. Please note that we are unable to offer specific instructions on how
to modify your camera.
The ShutterBug Pro can electronically connect to some digital photo cameras. Its direct
connect interface uses two solid state “switches.” The Stage-1 switch is for focus and
Stage-2 is for shutter (snapshot). The switches are optically isolated, which provides
electrical protection to your camera.
ShutterBug Pro’s direct connection provides the electrical closure to the contacts on your
camera’s shutter button. Stage-1 (focus) is switched-on first, followed by Stage-2
(shutter). All switches are turned off after a short final delay. Total focus/shutter activation
time will depend on the settings you have chosen (please see System Programming
section).

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 4 Sep-15-2013
Figure 7, Basic Direct Connect ID
Figure 8, 2-Wire Layout
Figure 9, 4-wire Layout
The photo on the right shows how the two camera
stages are identified on ShutterBug Pro’s circuit board.
The connections must be made by soldering your
custom made wiring cable to the indicated pads. Use a
temperature controlled soldering iron set for delicate
soldering work.
The Stage-1 and Stage-2 switches are polarity
sensitive. So, they must be wired to match the polarity
of your camera. This can be determined by using a voltmeter across the camera’s shutter
button (switch) contacts during its resting state.
Direct Connect Method:2-Wire
Not all cameras do a focus when the shutter
button is depressed. Or perhaps you do not
want to use the cameras auto focus feature. If
so, only two wires are needed.
N/A Not Used
SHUT+ Shutter Positive
SHUT- Shutter Negative
Direct Connect Method:4-Wire
Typical wiring for a camera that has an auto
focus stage is accommodated with the 4-wire
scheme.
FOC+ Focus Positive
FOC- Focus Negative
SHUT+ Shutter Positive
SHUT- Shutter Negative

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 5 Sep-15-2013
Figure 10, 3-wire Common Positive
Figure 11, 3-wire Common Negative
Direct Connect Method:3-Wire
You can install ShutterBug using 3-wires too. This is usually wired as a common negative
ground arrangement. However, some cameras will need a common positive ground. If
you aren’t sure what to do then use the 4-wire method.
FOC+ Focus Positive
SHUT+ Shutter Positive
COM- Common Negative
COM+ Common Positive
FOC- Focus Negative
SHUT- Shutter Negative

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 6 Sep-15-2013
SYSTEM PROGRAMMING
ShutterBug Pro’s flexibility is due to its user-programmable features. In other words, it can be
configured to your special requirements.
The system programming feature allows you to set the following features:
#Camera wake-up interval.
#External Trigger mode (R/C or external switch).
#Shutter mode.
#Shutter repeat (auto-sequence) interval.
#Focus duration.
#Home servo position.
#Focus servo position.
#Shutter (snapshot) servo position.
ShutterBug Pro is factory configured with the following settings. Of course, any of these
settings can be changed to suit your application.
C ONFIGURATION T YPE D EFAULT V ALUE R ANGE OF V ALUES
Wake-up/Standalone Interval Period 60 2 to 120
Wake-up/Standalone Interval Units Seconds Sec, Sec10X, Min, Hr
Shutter Repeat Interval Four Seconds 1 to 30 seconds
Shutter Dwell Time One Second ½ to 10 seconds
Shutter Repeat/Hold Mode Repeat Once, Repeat, Hold
Focus Dwell Time Two Seconds 1 to 10 seconds
External Trigger Mode R/C Signal R/C or External Switch
Servo Home Position Full Left (1.0mS) Any servo rotation position
Servo Focus Position Center (1.5mS) Any servo rotation position
Servo Snapshot Position Center Right (1.7mS) Any servo rotation position

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 7 Sep-15-2013
Figure 12, Push Button Switch
PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
“Programming” ShutterBug Pro involves pressing the push
button switch while observing the red and yellow lights. If you
are installing a servo then you will also need a servo signal
source (such as a R/C radio system or servo signal
simulator) to program the servo position settings.
Each programming step involves a blinking Yellow LED. The
blink pattern indicates the programming step that you are on.
There are ten steps, so there are ten unique LED patterns
that will be seen by the time programming is complete.
At each step you will respond by pressing the push switch. The number of presses will program
the feature. For example, during the “Shutter Repeat Interval” programming step, pressing the
switch four times will set the shutter repeat time to four seconds. Once you are done with the
step, just wait three seconds for the Red LED to wink once. ShutterBug Pro will then move to
the next step. If desired, programming can be exited by removing power after the Red LED
winks, which will leave the remaining values unchanged.
If your entry is illegal, the Red LED will rapidly flash for several seconds as a warning. You will
then be allowed to try again. During steps one through seven, if you do not enter your value
within seven seconds, ShutterBug Pro will move to the next step. This allows you to skip the
steps you do not want to change.
The LED patterns are arranged as simple patterns of short and long blinks. The following table
outlines the blink codes ( 

= short blink, ,,
,,,,
,, = long blink, ÷= Red LED On).
STEP RED LED YEL LED DESCRIPTION
1 Off Camera Wake-up/Standalone Interval
2 Off  Wake-up/Standalone Interval Units
3 Off  Shutter Repeat Interval
4 Off  Shutter Dwell Time
5 Off Shutter Repeat / Hold Mode
,,
6 Off Focus Dwell Time
 ,,
7 Off External Trigger Mode
 ,,
8÷Servo Neutral (Home) Position
9÷ Servo Stage 1 (Focus) Position
10 ÷ Servo Stage 2 (Snapshot) Position

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 8 Sep-15-2013
S TART OF P ROGRAMMING
Programming begins by holding down the pushbutton switch while you apply power to
ShutterBug Pro. Continue to press the switch until the Red LED is on. When you are
ready start programming, release the switch. Now the fun begins!
Step 1: Camera Wake-up/Standalone Interval.
Range: 1 = Turn Off, else 2 - 120
Depending on the operating mode, the Wake-up/Standalone interval is used to
prevent the camera’s power save feature from putting the camera to sleep or to
determine the time between snapshots.
W AKE - UP
While in the R/C or external trigger mode (see Step 4), this is the delay time
before the next shutter “Keep Awake” movement. At the time interval you choose,
the Stage 1 (focus) position will be active for a moment, which keeps the camera
awake. So, to prevent your digital camera from falling asleep, set this time to be
less than the camera’s maximum allowed inactivity duration. For example, if your
camera turns itself off in five minutes, then enter four presses and choose
“Minutes” in Step-2 (for four minutes). If it turns off in 60 seconds, then enter five
presses and choose “10X Seconds in Step-2 (for fifty seconds).
S TANDALONE
When in the Standalone mode, this is the time delay before the next snapshot.
If you want to take a photo every five minutes, enter five presses and choose
“Minutes” in Step-2 (for five minutes). If you want a photo every two hours, enter
two presses and choose “Hours” in Step-2.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Standalone mode is automatically disabled if a R/C servo
signal has been detected. To test standalone mode after programming you must
disconnect battery power, remove the servo signal source, then reapply power.
Step 2:  Camera Wake-up/Standalone Interval Units.
Range: 1= Seconds, 2= 10x Seconds, 3= Minutes, 4= Hours.
This entry is a companion to Step 1. It sets the time units (resolution) for the
Camera Wake-up/Standalone Interval. For example, press three times for
minutes.

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 9 Sep-15-2013
Step 3:  Shutter Repeat Interval
Range: 1 to 30 seconds.
This entry configures the shutter repeat time. It is only observed when ShutterBug
Pro is used in the “Repeat” mode (see Step 5). Each press is one second, with a
maximum of thirty seconds. For example, for a rapidly repeating two second
shutter period, press twice. The timer begins at the end of each snapshot.
Step 4:  Shutter Dwell Time
Range: 0.5 to 10 seconds (with half-second resolution).
This entry configures the Shutter (Stage-1) dwell time. Each press is one-half
second, with a maximum of ten seconds (twenty presses). For example, to set a
1.5 second Shutter time, press three times.
Step 5: ,, Shutter Repeat / Hold Mode
Range: 1= Once, 2= Repeat, 3= Hold.
The shutter can be configure to operate in three different ways. They are as
follows:
Once: Press and release the shutter button once. Do not press again until
the next external trigger (R/C or external switch).
Repeat: Cycle the shutter to take rapid sequence of photos. Continue repeat
until the external trigger is released.
Hold: At the end of the snapshot, continue holding the shutter active until
the external trigger is released. Once the external trigger is removed,
the shutter will continue to stay active until the expiration of the
Shutter Dwell Time period. During the Standalone mode, the shutter
will remain active until the pushbutton switch is pressed.
Step 6:  ,, Focus Dwell Time
Range: 1= Off, else 1 to 10 seconds (with half-second resolution).
This entry configures the focus dwell time. One press will disable Focus (Stage-2)
operation. Beyond that, each press is one-half second, with a maximum of ten
seconds (twenty presses). For example, to set a 1.5 second focus time, press
three times.

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 10 Sep-15-2013
Step 7:  ,, External Trigger Mode
Range: 1= R/C Signal, 2= External Switch.
This entry configures ShutterBug Pro for the type of external snapshot trigger you
need. For example, if you will be using it with an R/C receiver, press once for “R/C
Signal.” To use the external switch method, press twice.
Important Note: Standalone mode users must set this feature to “R/C Signal.”
NOTES ON SERVO POSITION PROGRAMMING (STEPS 8 - 10):
(1) During programming steps eight through ten, the Red LED will be on. This serves to warn you
that servo position programming is active. (2) If you are using the direct connect method these
steps can be ignored. (3) There are no time limits to setting the servo positions; a key press
selection must be made to continue to the next step. You may press twice to reload the factory
defaults or press three times to skip the entry with no change. (4) When setting the servo
position, the Red LED will urgently flash for several seconds if the R/C signal is missing. If this
occurs please check your R/C equipment and try again.
Step 8: ÷Neutral (Home) Servo Position
Range: 1= Store servo position, 2= Load factory default, 3= Skip (no change).
This entry allows you to precisely set the neutral (home) servo position. Use your
R/C transmitter (or servo signal simulator) to position the servo arm away from the
camera’s shutter button. Once it is where you want it, enter one press.
Step 9: ÷ Stage 1 (Focus) Servo Position
Range: 1= Store servo position, 2= Load factory default, 3= Skip (no change).
This entry allows you to precisely set the Stage-1 (focus) and Wake-up servo
position. This is a half-pressed shutter button on cameras that support this. Use
your R/C transmitter (or servo signal simulator) to position the servo arm so that it
half-presses the shutter button. Once it is where you want it, enter one press.
Step 10: ÷ Stage 2 (Snapshot) Servo Position
Range: 1= Store servo position, 2= Load factory default, 3= Skip (no change).
This entry allows you to precisely set the Stage-2 (snapshot) servo position. Use
your R/C transmitter (or servo signal simulator) to position the servo arm so that it
GENTLY provides a fully depressed shutter button. Do not allow it to press too
hard or the servo will wear out very quickly. Once it is where you want it, enter one
press.

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 11 Sep-15-2013
LED STATUS INDICATORS
The Red and Yellow LED indicators provide status information during normal operation. A quick
glance can determine the operating mode, external R/C signal condition, and snapshot activity.
#While idle, the Red LED will periodically blink the operational mode. The blink code is
defined as follows:
One Blink = R/C Trigger mode.
Two Blinks = Standalone mode.
Three Blinks = External Trigger Switch mode.
#If the R/C servo signal becomes corrupt (or is no longer detected), the Red LED will
constantly blink until the R/C servo signal is restored. Note: This applies only to the R/C
trigger mode.
#During a snapshot, the Yellow LED will operate as follows:
Rapid Flash = Stage-1 (Focus) active.
Solid Yellow = Stage-2 (Shutter) active.
Copyright by Digital Products Company, 2007

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 12 Sep-15-2013
D ISCLAIMER
Digital Products Company, or their distributors, have no control over the installation and use of their
products. As such, no liability may be assumed, nor will any liability be accepted, for any damages
resulting from the use of this product. Under no circumstances will the buyer be entitled to
consequential or incidental damages. Use at your own risk. By act of installing it, the buyer accepts all
resulting liability.
DIGITAL PRODUCTS COMPANY
90 Day Limited Warranty
COVERAGE:
This product is warranted to be free from defects in parts and workmanship for a period of 90 days. Digital Products Company (DPC) will repair or
replace (at its option) the product and anyof its parts which fail to conform to this warranty. The warranty period begins on the date the product was
first purchased. This warranty is in lieu of all other expressed warranties. DPC does not assume or authorize any party to assume for it any other
obligation or liability. T HIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS . Y OU MAY HAVE OTHER RIGHTS , WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE .
MODIFICATIONS:
Any modifications or repair by anyone other than Digital Products Company (DPC) or its authorized agents will void this warranty.
N OT C OVERED IN THE WARRANTY (EXCLUSIONS):
1. Malfunctions due to improper installations, non-authorized repairs, tampering, misuse, dropping impact or modification.
2. Possible incompatibility with other A/V equipment.
3. Damage due to acts of God, lightning or accident.
4. Incidental or consequential damages, including damages from delay or loss of use, or equipment damage to other customer owned
equipment .
5. Any product whose serial number has been altered, defaced or removed.
6. Batteries, cords, wall mounted transformers, cosmetic parts or routine maintenance.
7. Adjustment of customer-operated controls and features as explained in the instruction guide.
WHEN SERVICE IS NEEDED DURING THE WARRANTY PERIOD:
1. Contact DPC using the “contact us” link instructions found at www.dpcav.com. Please provide the model name, serial number, purchase date,
and specific details to the problem. If DPC determines that service is required, they will issue a Return Authorization (RA) number and they will
request that you return the unit.
2. Pack the unit in its original packing materials (or suitable equivalent) with all accessories. Place this in a larger shipping carton and include
sufficient filler to protect the unit from shipping damage. DPC is not responsible for shipping damage due to poorly packaged units.
3. Write the RA number on the outside of the shipping carton. Include inside the carton a note describing the problem, your name, return shipping
address (PO boxes not accepted), the RA number, and a photocopy of the sales receipt.
4. Ship the instrument prepaid and insured to Digital Products Company, 134 Windstar Circle, Folsom, CA 95630 USA. Your unit will be returned
to you using DPC’s preferred shipping method.
WHEN SERVICE IS NEEDED AFTER THE WARRANTY PERIOD:
1. Tryto resolve the problem by contacting DPC’s technical support department. Please provide the model name, serial number, and a description
of the problem. You must provide your fax number or e-mail address if you are outside the USA.
2. If the technical support agent determines the problem requires service then DPC will issue an RA number and provide payment and return
shipping instructions.
DIGITAL PRODUCTS COMPANY

ShutterBug Pro © 2007-2013 Page 13 Sep-15-2013
F REQUENTLY A SKED Q UESTIONS
Q: I want to use four 1.5V rated alkaline batteries to operate ShutterBug Pro. But that will give
me six volts, which I understand is too high. Will I be OK? Also, how long do you think they will
last during use?
A: Don’t use four alkaline cells since the voltage will indeed be too high with a fresh set.
Instead, use only three of them (4.5V). Battery duration depends on how often the snapshots
are taken and other factors. But, generally speaking, three D-size alkaline batteries should last
several days.
Q: I’m setup for the Standalone mode and my ShutterBug is using a R/C servo to activate the
camera’s shutter button. However, I don’t want to buy a R/C system to set the servo positions.
The instructions mention that a servo signal simulator can be used. What is that?
A: A servo signal simulator (sometimes called a servo tester) is a small battery-powered box
that is used to bench test model R/C servos. Prices range from $25 on up, depending on the
brand. Just check your local R/C hobby store to see what they offer. You don’t need fancy
features, so a simple low-cost design is fine.
Q: I’m using the Standalone mode with very long time delays. The problem is that my camera
turns itself off when it is idle for more than five minutes. What can I do?
A: Unlike the R/C and External Switch trigger methods, the Standalone mode does not have a
camera keep-awake feature. For long duration timed snapshots, the servo’s Stage-1 position
can be used to turn the camera on (instead of focus). This has the advantage of maximizing
the camera’s battery duration. On some cameras this can be done with one servo and a
cleverly mounted two-sided servo arm. If the power switch is too far away from the shutter
button, then two servos can be used together. Just install them in parallel with a servo “Y”
cable (available at the R/C hobby store). Not all cameras can be adapted for this, but with
some imagination, such tricks are possible.
Q: I have a special application where I need to connect ShutterBug’s Direct Connect Interface
to a battery powered relay. How much voltage and current can the interface handle?
A: The recommended maximum voltage is 30V and the maximum current is 35 milliamps. The
voltage/current combination must not exceed 100mW or damage may occur. A low voltage
relay (with a high-sensitivity coil) is recommended. Be sure to add the typical diode protection
on your relay’s coil.

Programming Summary

SHUTTERBUG PRO MENU SUMMARY
1. Camera Wake-up/Stand alone Intervals:
0=Skip, 1=Off, 2-120.
2.  Wake-up/Standalone Interval Units:
0=Skip, 1= Sec, 2=Sec10X, 3=Min, 4=Hr.
3.  Shutter Repeat Interval:
0=Skip, 1-30 seconds (one second per press).
4.  Shutter Dwell Time:
0=skip, 1=0.5S, 2=1S, 3=1.5S, ... 20=10Sec (500mS per press).
5. ,, Shutter Repeat / Hold Mode:
0=Skip, 1=Once, 2=Repeat, 3 = Hold.
6.  ,, Focus Dwell Time:
0=Skip, 1=Off, 2=1S, 3=1.5Sec, ... 20=10Sec (500mS per press).
7.  ,, External Trigger Mode:
0=Skip, 1=R/C Signal, 2=External Switch.
8. ÷Servo Neutral Home Position:
1= Store, 2=Default 1.0mS, 3=Skip.
9. ÷Servo Stage 1 Position:
 1= Store, 2=Load Default 1.5mS, 3=Skip.
10. ÷Servo Stage 2 Position:
 1= Store, 2=Load Default 1.7mS, 3=Skip.