Ikelite 4061.1 DS161 User manual

Please read all instructions before using this product.
Instruction Manual
4061.1 D 161 ubstrobe

2
TABLE OF CONTENT
IKELITE D 160 UB TROBE............3
Specifications ......................................3
Introduction ..........................................4
Starting Out..........................................4
Strobe Compatibility ............................4
Strobe Power ......................................4
DS160 Substrobe ................................5
Overview of DS160 Features ..............5
OPENING AND CLO ING ..................6
Opening the Strobe..............................6
O-ring ..................................................6
Closing the Strobe ..............................6
Opening and Closing (Illustration)........7
LI-ION BATTERY PACK 4067 ............8
Charging the Battery Pack ..................9
Storage ................................................9
Warnings ..............................................9
Using NiM or Ni-Cad Battery Packs ..9
MART CHARGER 4067.1 ................10
Specifications ......................................10
Includes................................................10
Usage ..................................................10
Warnings ..............................................10
FLA H DIFFU ER 0591.3 ..................11
Using the Diffuser ................................11
Diffuser Installation and Removal ........11
ARM Y TEM / TROBE MOUNT ..12
Ikelite Arm Systems ............................12
Ikelite Mounts ......................................12
TROBE CONNECTION ....................13
Strobe Connection (Illustration) ..........14
U ING A HARD-WIRED TROBE ..15
U ING A HARD-WIRED TROBE
WITHOUT TTL ....................................15
LED MOVIE LITE ................................16
Aiming the Strobe ................................16
WITCHE / FUEL GAUGE ..............17
On/Off Switch ......................................17
Fuel Guage ..........................................18
Confidence Signal................................18
Firing Mode Switch ..............................18
TROBE READY LIGHT ....................19
Strobe Ready Light and TTL ousing..19
Camera Ready Light ..........................19
Triggered via Sync Cord ......................19
RECOMMENDATION ........................20
Visual Inspections ................................20
Insurance ............................................20
Tips ......................................................20
Lubricant ..............................................20
MAINTENANCE ..................................21
Cleaning and Storage ..........................21
TROUBLE HOOTING ........................22
Strobe Will Not Fire..............................22
AIRLINE TRAVEL ..............................23
TECHNICAL UPPORT......................23
LIMITED WARRANTY ........................23
PRODUCT REGI TRATION ..............24

TTL
Full
-2
-1
-3
-4
Ready Light
Fuel
Gauge
3
2
1
SOS
Batt
w/Lite
Off
On
On
w/Lite
D 161 PECIFICATION
CE - Compliant with applicable EU directives
Complies with FCC part 15, subpart B, ection 15.109 for Class “B” Products
p e c i f i c a t i o n s
Battery Pack ............................................Li-ion module, 7.4v, 4500mAh
Weight ....................................................2.5 lb (1130g)
Size..........................................................9.6 cm dia x 17.9 cm....... 3.75" dia x 7"
Depth Rating............................................90m - 300 feet
t r o b e
Energy Rating..........................................160 watt-sec
Recycle Time ..........................................1.4 sec
Angle of Coverage ..................................90 degrees....... 100 degrees with diffuser
Guide # (ISO 100) feet ............................76 surface - 38 underwater
Guide # meters ........................................24 surface - 12 underwater
Color Temperature ..................................4800 degrees Kelvin
Full Power Flashes ..................................450 flashes per full charge
Firing Modes............................................TTL, Full, 9 fractional powers
M o v i e
Movie Light ..............................................15-watt LED
Angle of Coverage ..................................45 degrees
Brightness................................................500 lumens
Color Temperature ..................................5000-5500K
Burn Time ................................................8 hours at max intensity
Power Settings ........................................Full, 9 fractional powers, SOS
Switch Lock
Toggle
Li-ion Battery Pack
DS161 Strobe ead
3
IKELITE D 161 UB TROBE

IKELITE D 161 UB TROBE (continued)
4
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing an Ikelite Substrobe. Ikelite brings over 50 years of underwater
photographic and lighting experience to the strobe market. Ikelite Substrobes are
designed and built in the USA by Ikelite to suit both the professional and the amateur
photographer.
The purpose of a strobe is to illuminate the subject and assist the camera in taking vivid
pictures. The Ikelite DS161 Substrobe is equally suited for general and wide-angle
photography, covering up to a full 100° angle with a diffuser.
The contents of this instruction manual are subject to change at any time without prior
notice.
TARTING OUT
Before using the Ikelite DS161 Substrobe, please read this owner’s manual thoroughly
and retain it for future reference. Ikelite recommends becoming familiar with the
features and functions of the Ikelite DS161 Substrobe above water before trying the
camera and strobe in the water. And, if you have not yet done so, it is suggested that you
read your camera’s owner’s manual as well.
TROBE COMPATIBILITY
The DS161 Substrobe is compatible with all Ikelite TTL systems and current digital
cameras, as well as all older TTL film cameras including the Nikonos system. A variety of
sync cords, sensors, and TTL adapters are available to connect to almost any camera
system currently on the market.
TROBE POWER
The DS161 recycles in a quick 1.4 sec from full discharge. When fired at a fractional
power — whether in TTL or manual mode — the strobe recycles virtually instantaneously.
Number of flashes per full charge will increase dramatically in most cases when using in
TTL mode with a compatible camera system. The powerful DS161 is adjustable in 10
half-stop increments for precise control over your exposure when used in manual mode.
MOVIE LIGHT COVERAGE
Three super-bright LEDs are arranged behind a special optical element to provide 45
degrees angle of coverage free of hotspots. The daylight balanced color temperature
brings out true, natural colors with or without the use of a color correcting filter.
MOVIE LIGHT MODE
With the strobe set to the "Batt w/Lite" position, the movie light is adjustable between
100% and 50% power in 10 fractional power settings. The "SOS" mode emits the
universal signal for help in an emergency situation.
With the strobe set to the "On w/Lite" position, the movie light doubles as an aiming light
for focusing or night diving. The light automatically turns off and back on when the strobe
fires so there is no effect on photos.

5
IKELITE D 161 UB TROBE (continued)
D 161 UB TROBE
The Ikelite DS161 Substrobe combines high intensity output and wide coverage angle
in a compact, versatile design. This strobe features 160 watt-sec. intensity and covers
a full 100° using the diffuser. Special soft-lite reflector provides rich reds, oranges, and
warmer flesh tones.
The DS161 is pre-flash compatible and operates with both traditional film cameras and
digital still cameras. Multiple firing modes are featured, including TTL/Auto exposure.
The DS161 electronics are safely sealed separately from the battery pack. The industrial
grade Li-ion batteries recycle in an incredible 1.4 seconds and the Li-ion battery pack
is easily interchangeable with a spare unit. When in the “Batt w/Lite” position, the fuel
gauge references the remaining battery capacity. Aim the DS161 and illuminate your
subject's colors with the built-in modeling light / night diving light / movie light.
OVERVIEW OF D 161 FEATURE
• Separate power and firing mode switches.
• Interchangeable battery pack features industrial grade Li-ion batteries.
• LED fuel gauge approximates the remaining battery capacity.
• Visual ready light indicates when strobe has recycled.
• Female Ikelite bulkhead connector accepts different camera sync cords and the
EV-Controller 4100.6.
• Exposure guide label references recommended exposure settings.
• Separate diffuser provides softer lighting and wider coverage angle.
• Movie Light includes “SOS” mode for help in emergency situations.
MOVIE LIGHT BURN TIME
Custom circuitry and highly efficient drivers provide 8 hours of continuous burn time on a
fully charged battery with no waning effects. Continuous use of the light at full power
reduces number of full power flashes by less than 15%.

6
OPENING THE TROBE
Turn the strobe OFF, and place the strobe face down on a flat surface.
Slide the locking lever out by either grasping the sides of the lever and pulling it out OR
use your thumb to apply slight pressure to the top of the lever and slide it out.
Flip the lever up and then rotate the lever counter-clockwise 90°. The internal spring
automatically pushes open the strobe. Lift the rear section off of the strobe front (See
illustrations on page 7). The rear section is the battery pack for the strobe.
The battery pack does NOT remain waterproof when removed from the strobe.
Therefore, we suggest keeping the open portion of the battery pack pointed down while
removing to eliminate the possibility of water droplets falling inside. The Li-ion batteries
remain permanently secured inside the Li-ion battery pack.
The front section of the DS161, which houses the main electronics, is safely sealed
separately from the battery pack. The front section will remain waterproof when the
battery pack is removed. owever, avoid salt-water contact with the battery pins.
Damage/corrosion can cause a short circuit.
O-RING
The o-ring is located on the inside rim of the battery pack. Keep the o-ring and the
sealing surfaces clean. DO NOT stretch the o-ring when cleaning. It is not necessary to
lubricate the o-ring. Never use spray lubricant because it may crack the plastic.
CLO ING THE TROBE
Make sure the power switch has been rotated to the OFF position.
Place the front of the strobe face down on a flat surface. Check that the o-ring and
sealing surfaces are clean; make sure the o-ring is positioned properly inside the rim of
the battery pack. Place the locking lever in the open position (slide the lever out, flip the
lever up, and rotate the lever counterclockwise 90 degrees until it stops).
Align the front and rear sections of the strobe. Lower the battery pack onto the front
section of the strobe. Proper alignment of the two sections is extremely important to
avoid possible damage to the internal components.
To seal the strobe, simply press down slightly on the rear of the battery pack and rotate
the lever clockwise 90 degrees until it stops. Flip the lever down and then slide the lever
into the locked position to properly seal the strobe.
OPENING AND CLO ING

7
OPEN
RCD
INDPLS IN U.S.A.
UNLOCK
INDPLS IN U.S.A.
UNLOCK
Pull Out
Flip Up Rotate
OPENING AND CLO ING (illustration)

8
The 4061.1 DS161 Substrobe includes a Lithium Ion (Li-ion) battery pack and smart
charger. The battery pack requires Smart Charger 4067.1 (page 10).
Li-ion Battery Pack 4067 is compatible with Ikelite's DS125, DS160 and DS161 strobe.
The battery pack must be attached to the strobe head for use in or underwater.
Additional battery packs are available through an Ikelite dealer.
The battery pack does NOT remain waterproof when removed from the strobe.
Therefore, we suggest keeping the open portion of the battery pack pointed down
while removing to eliminate the possibility of water droplets falling inside.
The battery pack is factory sealed and contains no user-serviceable parts other than
the O-ring. Do not disassemble the battery pack.
Li-ion Battery Pack 4067
LI-ION BATTERY PACK 4067
Charger Socket
O-ring

9
LI-ION BATTERY PACK 4067 (continued)
CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK
Requires Ikelite 4067.1 Smart Charger Li-ion. Do not attempt to charge the battery pack
with other chargers. Use of an incompatible charger is a safety risk and may cause
irreparable damage to the battery pack.
Typical recharge time is approximately 5 hours.
TORAGE
Do not store a depleted battery pack for extended periods of time. Charge the battery
pack to at least half full prior to storing. Always place the power switch in the locked OFF
position. Store in a cool, dry place. We suggest storage of your strobe with the locking
lever OPEN to allow any hydrogen/air mixture to escape.
WARNING
- Always turn off and lock the battery power switch or disconnect the battery and store in
a cool, dry place when not in use.
- The battery pack is not waterproof when removed from the strobe.
- Do not disassemble the battery pack.
- Do not expose the pack to heat.
- Do not use lubricant, cleaners, or any chemical on the o-ring or battery pack.
- NEVER use or charge a water damaged battery pack. Flooding may cause a short
circuit and lead to overheating.
- Do not discard, crush or incinerate. Check local rules and regulations on electronic
waste disposal and use an approved recycling facility.
- Do not ship or travel with a flooded or known defective battery pack.
U ING NIMH OR NI-CAD BATTERY PACK
The DS161 Substrobe head also accepts both 4066.5 NiM battery packs and 4066
Ni-Cad battery packs in good working condition. Do not use a battery pack with dead or
water damaged cells. If you intend to use an older battery pack on your new Substrobe,
please reference the notice dated 6/22/09 on the following web page:
http://www.ikelite.com/web_pages/important.html.

10
MART CHARGER 4067.1
- It is safe to leave the charger connected to the battery pack when charging is complete
or when charger power is off. To conserve energy, unplug the unit when not in use.
- Operation of the charger with battery packs other than those intended is dangerous
and could result in damage to the battery or charger.
- Model numbers and ratings are shown on the rear label of the charger. This charger is
intended to be correctly oriented in a vertical or floor plug socket.
- This charger is for indoor use only.
- Use only in dry locations.
- Charger contains no user-serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open this product;
replace if damaged.
- Keep the charger away from fire and other sources of heat.
INCLUDE
U AGE
WARNING
PECIFICATION
Compatibility ..................................................Ikelite 4067 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
Input ..............................................................100-240 Volts AC, 50-60 ertz, 0.6 Amps
Output ............................................................8.4 Volts
Operating Temperature ..................................32°F - 104°F (0°C - 40°C)
Storage Temperature......................................-4°F - 185°F (-20°C - 85°C)
- Smart Charger Li-ion with US plug flip out blades
- European plug adapter
- Australian plug adapter
- United Kingdom plug adapter
CAUTION:
CAUTION:
Adapter Prongs Closed Attached
Charging indicator LED: OFF ..................Disconnected from pack
FLA HING ......Charging Mode
OLID ..............Full Charge
DO NOT attempt to charge or connect a battery pack that has flooded or leaked. Electrical
shock, injury or fire could occur. Make sure the battery pack is turned off and completely
dry before charging.
Use only with compatible Ikelite lithium-ion battery
packs. Charge a battery pack to at least half full prior
to storing for extended periods of time. This charger
features flip out blades for use with US plugs.
Additional plug adapters are provided. Close the flip
out blades and slide a compatible plug adapter on
until it snaps into position.

FLA H DIFFU ER 0591.3
U ING THE DIFFU ER
The white diffuser can be secured to the front of the DS161 substrobe when softer lighting
or a coverage angle of 100° is desired.
The diffuser reduces the DS161 light intensity by one full f-stop.
DIFFU ER IN TALLATION AND REMOVAL
1. Position the Diffuser Cut-outs over the DS161 substrobe’s Diffuser Retention
Tabs.
2. Press down lightly until the diffuser is flush against the strobe face.
3. Rotate the Diffuser Installation Posts either direction until the Posts stop
against the strobe’s Diffuser Retention Tabs.
4. Reverse process to remove the Diffuser.
A lanyard or string can be attached to the diffuser by threading it through the two
Lanyard oles near its edge. Attach the other end to the strobe to prevent
accidental loss.
Flash Diffuser
Installation Post
Diffuser
Cut-outs
D 161 ubstrobe
Diffuser Retention Tab
Lanyard oles
11

IKELITE ARM Y TEM
Ikelite offers several arm choices compatible with the DS161. The arm and strobe mount
are NOT supplied with the strobe. For additional information go to www.ikelite.com
Caution: Ikelite arm systems are designed for underwater use. Be careful when
transporting the system above water since some camera trays and arm adjustments may
be unable to support the weight of the strobe(s) above water.
ARM Y TEM / TROBE MOUNT
TTL
Full
-2
-1
-3
-4
Ready Light
Fuel
Gauge
3
2
1
SOS
Batt
w/Lite
Off
On
On
w/Lite
IKELITE MOUNT
An optional paddle-type or ball-type mount can be mounted to the underneath side of the
strobe. The mount slides into the strobe base and is secured with a screw (supplied with
optional mount). Make sure to slide the mount into the strobe base until it stops. Be
careful to not cross-thread the screw when tightening the mount. The DS161 Black
Shroud can be rotated slightly to gain better access to the strobe base with a screwdriver.
Although not necessary, you can apply a small amount of Ikelite lube around the screw
threads before attaching the strobe mount. Use Ikelite lube only (supplied with the DS161
strobe). This will reduce the possibility of seizing and allow removal of the screw should
the mount need to be removed. Removing the mount for long storage periods will also
reduce the possibility of seizing.
DS161 Shroud
Ball-Type Mount
“not included”
with DS161
Mount Screw
Strobe Base
12

13
The female bulkhead connector permits different Ikelite sync cords, EV Manual Controller or
a Fiber Optic Adapter to be connected to the strobe. These connectors relay signals from
the camera to the substrobe to trigger the flash.
The removable waterproof bulkhead cap seals the bulkhead connector when nothing is
connected to the DS161. The strobe’s bulkhead connection must be sealed to remain
waterproof (page 14).
Caution:
• Do not leave the sync cord or sensor connected to the camera or strobe
for prolonged periods as electrolysis could occur and make removal of the
equipment impossible.
• Do not disconnect the sync cord or sensor from the housing or strobe when
underwater or when wet. These items are not waterproof when disconnected.
• Make sure there is no debris on the sync cord o-ring and the sync cord connector
is aligned properly when attaching to the strobe bulkhead (page 14).
CONNECTION TO TROBE
To connect either a sync cord or sensor to the DS161 Substrobe, follow these instructions:
1. Turn the substrobe to OFF and make sure all components are dry. Clean and
lightly lubricate the stem o-ring and the bulkhead connector threads.
Check the o-ring for nicks or cuts.
2. Note the positioning of the receptacles and pins on the end of the cord. Properly
align the end of the cord and insert it into the strobe bulkhead connector.
When using the 4103.51 cord, which connects an Ikelite housing to an Ikelite
Substrobe, both cord ends are identical; either end can be connected to the
strobe.
3. The connector threads are very fine; do not cross thread. If it is difficult
to turn the knurled retaining ring on the cord or sensor, you are likely
cross-threading. This can make removal of the strobe or sensor impossible.
and-tighten the knurled retaining ring on the cord or sensor. Push the end of
the cord further into the bulkhead connector and continue to tighten the knurled
retaining ring. Do not use pliers or a tool when tightening. It could damage the
cord or strobe.
TROBE CONNECTION

14
TROBE CONNECTION (illustration)
Bulkhead
Connection
Retaining Ring
Stem O-ring
Blue Band
4103.51 Ikelite Sync Cord
D 161 ubstrobe
Bulkhead Cap

15
For use with the following types of systems:
- Ikelite housings for digital cameras with external strobe connector but without TTL
conversion circuitry
- Non-Ikelite housings for digital cameras with Nikonos-style strobe connector
Connect the strobe using an appropriate Ikelite sync cord. The DS161 must be used in
manual exposure modes. Strobe output is not automatically adjusted for proper exposure
when set to TTL(Auto) mode.
U ING A A HARD-WIRED TROBE WITHOUT TTL
For use with the following types of systems:
- Ikelite housings for digital cameras with TTL conversion circuitry
- Ikelite housings for film cameras
- Nikonos V, RS cameras
- Non-Ikelite housings for digital cameras and compatible TTL adapter
Connect the strobe using an appropriate Ikelite TTL sync cord. Digital DSLR cameras
require the use of a Digital TTL sync cord. These cords are designated by a blue band at
one end. The DS161 may be used in TTL(Auto) or manual exposure modes.
TTL (thru-the-lens) exposure automatically compensates for aperture, distance and filters.
Because there's such a wide range of apertures and
subject distances, photographers wanting to easily
balance lighting and control close-up photographer
should select the TTL(Auto) exposure mode. When
the strobe fires, the camera reads the light and signals
the strobe to turn off when the exposure is correct.
Strobe output can be adjusted in TTL(Auto) mode
using either exposure compensation built into the
camera or an exposure compensation module in the
back of the housing (if applicable).
If an exposure compensation module is featured in the
back of the housing, strobe output may be controlled
manually while the strobe itself is left in TTL(Auto)
mode. In order to use the manual exposure modes on
the strobe itself, the housing module must be set in a
manual position.
When using a non-Ikelite TTL adapter or third party
conversion circuitry, please refer to the product's instructions for help in using the DS161
with this setup.
U ING A A TTL HARD-WIRED TROBE
Retaining Ring
Stem O-ring
Blue Band
Ikelite

16
LED MOVIE LIGHT
The LED movie light is located in the center of the strobe front. It is usable as a video
light, an aiming light and a night diving light.
The movie light is on in both "On w/Lite" and "Batt w/Lite" switch positions.
It is normal for the movie light to flicker every few seconds as the strobe capacitors
recharge. The momentary power drain on the batteries causes the flickering as the strobe
recycles.
In the “On w/Lite” switch position, the LED movie light turns Off when the strobe is fired
to eliminate any additional illumination to the area being photographed. When the strobe
fires, the light automatically dims to an imperceptible level so there is no effect on photos.
The movie light shines at its full intensity in the "On w/Lite" switch setting regardless of
the position of the Firing Mode Switch.
For variable intensity, switch the Substrobe to the "Batt w/Lite" position."
"In the "Batt w/Lite" switch position, the output of the movie light can be adjusted using
the Substrobe's “Firing Mode” switch. The light emits 100% power in the "Full" switch
position. Brightness is reduced for each subsequent position of the switch down to 50%
power at the -4.5 position.
With the Substrobe in the "Batt w/Lite" switch position and the Firing Mode in the
"TTL/SOS" position, the movie light will turn off and on in the universal "SOS" frequency.
This can be stopped by turning the Substrobe to any other switch position.
Due to the extended life-span of LED bulbs, the DS161 Substrobe LED movie light bulb
is non-user replaceable. In the unlikely event the LED movie light should quit working,
return the Substrobe to Ikelite for repair.
The 15-watt LED movie light features a 8 hour burn time at full intensity.
AIMING THE TROBE
Use the movie light to aim the strobe. Look thru the camera's viewfinder, and aim the
strobe so that the movie light shines in the center of your picture area. If your subject
distance greatly changes, you should recheck the positioning of the strobe.
When using auto-focus cameras, the movie light may be required in low light levels to
illuminate your subject to allow the camera to auto focus.
LED Movie Light
D 161 ub trobe
Flash Tube

17
WITCHE / FUEL GAUGE
TTL
Full
-2
-1
-3
-4
Ready Light
Fuel
Gauge
3
2
1
SOS
Batt
w/Lite
Off
On
On
w/Lite
Switch Lock
Battery
Compartment
The DS161 features separate switches for power on/off and firing modes. The arrow on
the switch points to the selected position.
ON/OFF WITCH
OFF: The horizontal switch position is OFF. The adjacent tab locks the switch in the OFF
position. To unlock, slide the tab away from the switch. Always turn the Substrobe OFF
before opening the strobe.
ON: There are two ON positions. Rotating the switch clockwise to the first ON position
turns on the power to the Substrobe. Further rotation of the switch clockwise to the
second ON position turns on both the power to the Substrobe and the movie light.
TE T: Occasionally check the battery capacity by rotating the switch counterclockwise to
the “Batt w/Lite” battery position and referencing the fuel gauge on the side of the strobe.
The “Batt w/Lite” battery position also turns ON the movie light.
Fuel G auge
D 161 ubstrobe

18
FUEL GAUGE
When the switch is rotated to the “Batt w/Lite” position, the fuel gauge on the side of the
strobe will display 0, 1, 2, or 3 red LED lights indicating the remaining charge in the
battery pack (see below). When no LED's are illuminated, then the battery capacity is low
and you may have less than 75 full power flashes remaining. For general guidelines,
refer to the following list:
• 3 LED’s - above 75%
• 2 LED’s - above 50%
• 1 LED - above 25%
• No LED - less then 25%
CONFIDENCE IGNAL
The DS161 strobe features a confidence signal indicator light that will glow if the strobe
receives a TTL quench signal. The #3 LED on the fuel gauge will glow GREEN for three
seconds if the DS161 strobe quenches. This green confidence light illuminates only in the
TTL exposure mode when used with compatible TTL systems.
FIRING MODE WITCH
Multiple firing modes are featured: TTL/Auto and 9 fractional power settings from the Full
power setting: Full, -1/2, -1, -1 1/2, -2, -2 1/2, -3, -3 1/2, -4, -4 1/2.
TTL(Auto) - Thru-The-Lens/Auto Exposure: The camera automatically signals the strobe
to turn off when the exposure is correct. The camera must feature compatible TTL(Auto)
exposure to utilize this mode on the DS161 when connected directly to the camera. (See
“Using as a ard-Wired TTL Strobe” section). The TTL(Auto) firing mode MUST be
selected when connecting the optional EV-Controller 4100.6.
Full - Full Power Manual Exposure: The strobe fires at full power each time. You must
select the correct exposure manually. Set the camera aperture based on the subject
distance (see "Exposure Guide" section).
Fractional Power ettings:Select the appropriate power setting to manually balance
the strobe output for available light. Select a fractional power setting
when the strobe-to-subject distance is fixed and the manual full power setting would
over-expose with the camera's selected aperture. The difference between each power
setting is one-half an f-stop; moving from Full power to -1/2 decreases the light output by
one-half an f–stop. Changing the power setting does not alter the coverage angle.
WITCHE /FUEL GAUGE (continued)

19
TROBE READY LIGHT
TTL
Full
-2
-1
-3
-4
Ready Light
Fuel
Gauge
3
2
1
SOS
Batt
w/Lite
Off
On
On
w/Lite
Confidence Light
Ready Light
D 161 trobe
TROBE READY LIGHT AND TTL HOU ING
The Ikelite DS161 Substrobe features a ready light that glows red when the DS161 has
recycled and is ready to fire its flash again.
The middle #2 LED on the fuel gauge functions as the visual ready light.
The #3 LED on the fuel gauge will glow GREEN for three seconds if the DS161 strobe
quenches, indicating that the strobe has provided proper exposure. If no green light
appears, check the image for possible under-exposure. When the strobe has recycled
again, the ready light will again glow red indicating that the strobe is fully powered and
ready to fire. If the strobe ready light does not glow red, the batteries may be expended.
Your camera’s ready light “lightning bolt” in the camera viewfinder may blink while the
DS161 is recycling and then glow solid when the DS161 is fully charged. Nikon DSLRs
and older Canon DSLR models such as the 20D and Rebel XT will always display a solid
glow “lightning bolt” regardless of the strobe cycle.
CAMERA READY LIGHT - Triggered via ync Cord
When using a TTL/Auto exposure camera (film or digital) in an Ikelite TTL compatible
housing connected to the DS161 strobe by sync cord, the flash ready light in the
camera viewfinder and the DS161 ready light will both glow when the Substrobe has
recycled and is ready to fire.
If the Ikelite housing does not feature TTL compatible circuitry, then the ready light in
the camera viewfinder would not be triggered when the strobe has recycled.

20
VI UAL IN PECTION
Visual inspections are important. Take the time to examine the entire assembled setup
(strobe, camera housing, arms, etc.) above water. An improper seal or loose
connection can cause a lot of damage. Always check for leaks once you place the
equipment in the water.
IN URANCE
It is recommended that you add an all-risk floater to your homeowner’s and/or renter’s
insurance policy to cover your equipment against loss or damage. While the Ikelite
DS161 Substrobe has a limited warranty against manufacturing defects, it does
not cover customer neglect.
TIP
• Photograph through as little water as possible; move in close. Maximum
recommended shooting distance underwater is 1.8m (6’).
• Use the diffuser for softer lighting or a coverage angle of approximately 100°.
• If possible, measure the light with a meter and set the camera aperture
accordingly. A narrower aperture darkens the background; a wider aperture
lightens it.
• Add a second DS161 Substrobe for more natural looking photos and wider angle
of coverage when shooting both still and video images. Add a second Substrobe
using either the EV Manual Controller 4100.6 or an appropriate dual
sync cord.
• Purchasing a spare Li-ion Battery Pack 4067 is recommended if you dive
often. Weak batteries are the cause of many strobe and camera problems.
• Do not fire the strobe more than 15 times above water in rapid succession. If this
does happen, allow the DS161 to cool off for at least 10 minutes before resuming
photography.
LUBRICANT
• Use only Ikelite brand silicone lubricant with Ikelite brand
o-rings; other brand lubricants can cause the Ikelite o-rings to swell in size.
• Do not use spray lubricant; it can crack the plastic parts of the strobe.
• Ikelite brand silicone lubricant is provided for the sync cord stem o-ring and the
bulkhead connector threads. Use only enough lubricant to lightly cover the area
being applied; wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
• Lubricant only reduces friction; it is not a sealant.
RECOMMENDATION