Ikelite DS51 User manual

2
NNoottee::Please read all instructions before using this product.
TTAABBLLEE OOFF CCOONNTTEENNTTSS
IIKKEELLIITTEE DDSS5511 DDIIGGIITTAALL SSUUBBSSTTRROOBBEE....3-4
DS51 Specifications ................................3
Introduction............................................4
DS51 Substrobe Use................................4
Overview of DS51 Features ..................4
Starting Out............................................4
MMOOUUNNTTIINNGG TTHHEE SSTTRROOBBEE....................5
Ikelite Arm/Mounting Systems ............5
LLIITTEE BBRRAACCKKEETT ##44007733............................5
SSTTRROOBBEE CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONN........................6
Connection to Strobe ............................6-7
TTL/Sync Cords ......................................7
UUSSIINNGG AASS AA TTTTLL HHAARRDD--WWIIRREEDD
SSTTRROOBBEE..................................................8
UUSSIINNGG AASS AA HHAARRDD--WWIIRREEDD SSTTRROOBBEE
WWIITTHHOOUUTT TTTTLL......................................9
UUSSIINNGG AASS AA SSLLAAVVEE SSTTRROOBBEE................10
BBAATTTTEERR CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT..................11
Opening the Compartment ..................11
Battery Compartment O-ring ..............11
Changing the Batteries..........................11
Closing the Compartment ....................12
Compartment Flooding ........................12
SSTTRROOBBEE DDIIFFFFUUSSEERR................................13
Using the Diffuser..................................13
Diffuser Installation and Removal ......13
SSTTRROOBBEE RREEAADD LLIIGGHHTT........................14
Camera Ready Light ..............................14
MMOODDEE SSWWIITTCCHH......................................15
Off Position ............................................15
TTL/auto Exposure Position..................15
Manual Exposure Position ....................15
MMOODDEE SSWWIITTCCHH IILLLLUUSSTTRRAATTIIOONNSS........16
RREECCOOMMMMEENNDDAATTIIOONNSS..........................17
Visual Inspections ..................................17
Insurance ................................................17
Tips ..........................................................17
Lubricant ................................................17
MMAAIINNTTEENNAANNCCEE....................................18
Cleaning and Storage ............................18
TTRROOUUBBLLEESSHHOOOOTTIINNGG............................19
Strobe Will Not Fire ..............................19
WWAARRRRAANNTT SSEERRVVIICCEE............................20
Ikelite Limited Warranty ......................20
Returning Products for Service ............20
Digital
Substrobe
DDSS5511
##44004444..11

4
3
IIKKEELLIITTEE DDSS5511 SSUUBBSSTTRROOBBEE
DDSS5511 SSPPEECCIIFFIICCAATTIIOONNSS
WWeeiigghhtt.................................................0.6kg (1.3 lbs.) with batteries
EEnneerrggyy RRaattiinngg::....................................50 watt-sec.
CCoovveerraaggee AAnnggllee::..................................70° (80° with diffuser)
WWiiddeesstt AAnnggllee LLeennss:.............................28mm SLR
GGuuiiddee NNuummbbeerr (ISO 100) feet:..........56 surface, 28 underwater
GGuuiiddee NNuummbbeerr (ISO 100) meters:.....17 surface, 9 underwater
FFiirriinngg MMooddeess:......................................TTL/Auto, Full, 5 fractional powers
CCoolloorr TTeemmppeerraattuurree::............................5700°K
PPoowweerr SSoouurrccee::.....................................4 AA-cell alkaline, NiCad, or NiMH
FFllaasshheess::................................................200 full power
RReeccyyccllee TTiimmee::......................................3.5 seconds (full power)
DDeepptthh RRaattiinngg:......................................90m (300 feet)
CCEE -- CCoommpplliiaanntt wwiitthh aapppplliiccaabbllee EEUU ddiirreeccttiivveess
CCoommpplliieess wwiitthh FFCCCC ppaarrtt 1155,, ssuubbppaarrtt BB,, SSeeccttiioonn 1155..110099 ffoorr CCllaassss ““BB”” PPrroodduuccttss
CCaauuttiioonn::
• The DS51’s bulkhead connector is not waterproof and must be capped when not
connected to a cord or sensor. Using a DS51 underwater with the bulkhead
connector uncapped or unconnected will cause the strobe to flood. DO NOT
continue to use a flooded strobe-return to Ikelite for repair.
• The strobe is factory sealed; ddoo nnoottdisassemble. Disassembly will void your
Ikelite DS51’s limited warranty.
•DDoo nnoottcontinuously fire the strobe more than 15 times above water in rapid
succession. If this does happen, allow the strobe to cool down for at least 10
minutes.
Bulkhead
Connector
(waterproof
cap removed)
51
ikelite
SUBSTROBE
DS
Bulkhead Cap
Strobe
Ready
Light
Mode Switch
Waterproof
Bulkhead
Cap
Battery Door
Knob
IINNTTRROODDUUCCTTIIOONN
Thank you for purchasing an Ikelite Substrobe. Ikelite brings over 45 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.
DDSS5511 SSUUBBSSTTRROOBBEE UUSSEE
The purpose of a strobe is to illuminate the subject and assist the camera in taking vivid
pictures. The Ikelite DS51 strobe is equally suited for general and wide-angle
photography, covering up to 80° with a diffuser. The compact size of the DS51 makes it
ideal for macro photography while its 5700°K-color temperature helps bring out the true
colors of the underwater world.
The Ikelite DS51 strobe is preflash compatible and operates with traditional film
cameras, dSLR cameras, and digital still cameras. TTL/auto and manual exposure with 5
fractional power setting firing modes are featured. The DS51’s electronics are safely
sealed away from the battery compartment.
Aim the DS51 strobe and illuminate your subject’s colors with the optional Mini-C Lite
and Lite Bracket #4073 (page 5). The bracket secures beneath the strobe, allowing the
Mini-C Lite to be used as both an aiming light and as a night diving light.
OOVVEERRVVIIEEWW OOFF DDSS5511 FFEEAATTUURREESS
• Mode switch features TTL/auto and manual exposure settings.
• Battery compartment accommodates four AA batteries: alkaline, NiCad, or NiMH.
Lithium Ion batteries are NOT recommended.
• Ready light indicates when strobe has recycled.
• Female Ikelite bulkhead connector accepts different camera sync cords and the
EV Manual Controller #4100.6.
• Exposure guide label references recommended exposure settings.
• Diffuser provides softer lighting, wider coverage angle and reduces strobe output
by one f-stop.
SSTTAARRTTIINNGG OOUUTT
Before using the Ikelite DS51 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 DS51 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.
IIKKEELLIITTEE DDSS5511 SSUUBBSSTTRROOBBEE

6
The female Ikelite bulkhead connector permits different Ikelite sync cords or the Ikelite
EV manual controller sensor to be connected to the strobe. The sync cord or sensor relays
a signal from the camera to the substrobe that tells the DS51 when to flash.
The removable waterproof bulkhead cap seals the bulkhead connector when neither a
cord nor a sensor is connected to the DS51. The strobe’s bulkhead connector must be
sealed to remain waterproof (page 7).
CCaauuttiioonn::
•DDoo nnoottleave 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.
•DDoo nnoottdisconnect the sync cord or sensor from the camera or strobe when
underwater or when wet. These items are not waterproof when disconnected.
CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONN TTOO SSTTRROOBBEE
To connect either a sync cord or sensor to the DS51 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 cross-threading.
This can make removal of the strobe or sensor impossible.
Hand-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. DDoo nnoottuse a tool when tightening. It could damage the
cord or strobe.
SSTTRROOBBEE CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONN
ikelite
51
ikelite
SUBSTROBE
DS
Screw
SA-100 Ball Socket Arm #4086.61
(Not included with strobe unless
purchased in a strobe package)
Strobe Mount #9571.4
(included with SA-100
Ball Socket Arm)
5
IIKKEELLIITTEE AARRMM//MMOOUUNNTTIINNGG SSSSTTEEMMSS
Ikelite offers several arm choices compatible
with the DS51. Arms and mounts are NOT
supplied with the strobe unless purchased as
part of a complete package.
The DS51 will accept several Ikelite strobe
arms and mounts on the underside of the
strobe body. For further information, please
visit our “Strobe Mounting Systems” webpage:
http://www.ikelite.com/web_pages/arms.html.
CCaauuttiioonn::Ikelite arm systems are designed for
underwater use. Be careful when transporting
the system above water since some camera
trays, or arm adjustments may be unable to
support the weight of the strobe(s) above
water.
MMOOUUNNTTIINNGG TTHHEE SSTTRROOBBEE
LLiittee BBrraacckkeett ##44007733
The optional Lite Bracket secures the
Ikelite Mini-C Lite underneath the
DS51 strobe for use as an aiming light
and night diving light.
The Lite Bracket is placed between the
strobe body and the strobe mount.
Using a Phillips Head screwdriver,
remove the strobe mount from the
underside of the strobe and secure the
Lite Bracket in it’s place. Then, using
the extra screw provided with the
Lite Bracket, secure the strobe mount
under the bracket.
51
ikelite
SUBSTROBE
DS
Lite Bracket
for Mini C-Lite
Screw

7
Bulkhead
Connector
(waterproof
cap removed)
51
ikelite
SUBSTROBE
DS
Bulkhead Cap
Retaining
Ring
Stem O-ring
Ikelite
Index Groove
Stem O-ring
Retaining
Ring
Nikonos
SSTTRROOBBEE CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONN ccoonntt..
Ikelite Sync Cord
TTTTLL SSNNCC CCOORRDDSS______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ikelite offers interchangeable sync cords so that the DS51 strobe can be connected to
different camera systems. A TTL sync cord (illustrated above) is required to send the
TTL/auto exposure signal from the camera to the strobe.
8
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 cameras require
the use of a Digital TTL sync cord. These cords are designated by a blue band at one end.
The DS51 may be used in TTL/auto or manual exposure modes.
TTL (thru-the-lens) exposure automatically compensates for aperture, distance and fil-
ters. Because there's such a wide range of apertures and subject distances, photogra-
phers 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 sig-
nals 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 out-
put 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 DS51 with this setup.
Retaining
Ring
Stem O-ring
Ikelite
Index Groove
Stem O-ring
Retaining
Ring
Nikonos
UUSSIINNGG AASS AA TTTTLL HHAARRDD--WWIIRREEDD SSTTRROOBBEE

9 10
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 DS51 must be used in
manual exposure modes. Strobe output is not automatically adjusted for proper
exposure when set to TTL/auto mode.
The #4100.6 EV Manual Controller may be added in series to provide additional control
of the DS51 in 10 power increments. Check with the housing or camera manufacturer to
determine if the camera emits a pre-flash. Set the EV Controller selector switches
accordingly for use with the DS51 (refer to the EV Controller instruction manual). Set
the DS51 mode switch to "TTL/Auto" to utilize the power settings on the EV Manual
Controller.
UUSSIINNGG AASS AA HHAARRDD--WWIIRREEDD SSTTRROOBBEE WWIITTHHOOUUTT TTTTLLUUSSIINNGG AASS AA SSLLAAVVEE SSTTRROOBBEE
For use with the following types of systems:
- Ikelite or non-Ikelite housings without external strobe connector
The EV Manual Controller #4100.6 is required to use the DS51 as a slave strobe. The EV
Controller watches the camera's built-in flash and triggers the strobe at the appropriate
time.
Set the DS51 mode switch to "TTL/auto" to utilize the power settings on the EV Manual
Controller. If the DS51 is set to a manual exposure mode, the power settings of the EV
Manual Controller are ignored.
The camera must be set to a "force flash" mode, usually designated by a lightening bolt,
in order for the DS51 to fire consistently in every photo. Both the camera's built-in flash
and the DS51 must recycle completely before taking another flash photo.
Most digital cameras fire one or more short preflashes to help the camera determine
focus, exposure and color balance. After the preflash(es), the camera's built-in flash fires
to illuminate the subject while the photo is taken. Both the EV Manual Controller and
the Substrobe DS51 are preflash compatible. The internal switches on the EV Controller
must be set properly for the DS51 to fire at the correct time. Refer to the EV Manual
Controller instruction manual for more information.
If the DS51 fires at the incorrect time resulting in a dark photo, the preflash setting is
most likely incorrect. Check both the preflash switch on the EV Controller and the
camera's exposure mode. Some digital cameras fire a preflash in Auto, Program, shutter
priority and aperture priority modes, but not manual exposure modes.
EV Manual Controller
Sync Cord connects
directly to DS51
Slave
Sensor

1211
OOPPEENNIINNGG TTHHEE CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT
Always turn the substrobe to OFF before opening the battery door located at the back
of the strobe.
To access the battery compartment, rotate the knob counter-clockwise several times and
gently pull the door off. Tilt the rear portion of the strobe down while removing
the battery door to eliminate the possibility of water droplets falling into the battery
compartment after a dive. DDoo nnoottremove the knob from the battery door.
The battery compartment is sealed separately from the main electronics. DDoo nnoott
disassemble the strobe. Disassembly will void your Ikelite limited warranty.
BBAATTTTEERR CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT OO--RRIINNGG
Be aware of the position of the o-ring around the perimeter of the battery door. Keep
the o-ring and sealing surfaces clean.
Lubricant is not necessary for proper sealing of the battery door o-ring.
CCHHAANNGGIINNGG TTHHEE BBAATTTTEERRIIEESS
Install four AA-cell batteries: alkaline, NiCad, or NiMH. Refer to the “+” and “ – “ mark-
ings in the battery compartment to help properly install the batteries. If the batteries are
installed incorrectly, it may damage the strobe’s electronics.
Always carry spare batteries; weak batteries cause many camera and strobe problems.
It’s time to replace the batteries when, after the DS51 has flashed, the ready light
remains dark for 15 seconds or longer. (See “Strobe Ready Light,” page 10.)
NNoottee::It is possible to buy bad “new” batteries, so check the voltage output with
a meter. Lithium Ion batteries are NOT recommended due to their effect on the strobe’s
recycle time and the batteries’ thermal switch characteristics.
O-Ring Seal
note solid black line when
sealed properly against
the strobe body.
Knob
rotate clockwise
to tighten
BBAATTTTEERR CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT
CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT FFLLOOOODDIINNGG
The battery compartment is separate from the DS51’s factory sealed electronics.
Should the battery compartment flood, flush the compartment with fresh water and
dry thoroughly. Determine the cause of the flooding to the best of your ability. Send
the DS51 and other system components involved to Ikelite for inspection and testing as
soon as possible.
Often, divers find themselves in remote locations for extended periods without
access to multiple strobes. If the strobe with the flooded battery compartment is the
only one available to you at the time and you’re desperate to continue shooting, please
follow these instructions for a temporary fix:
1. Air out and thoroughly dry the battery compartment with air from a blow dryer
or a SCUBA tank hose.
2. Wash out the battery compartment with alcohol. Repeat Step 1.
3. Replace all batteries after battery compartment flooding. Never re-use
batteries that have been wet. The water could create an internal short circuit
in the strobe at some later date, potentially causing an explosion.
4. Reassemble with fresh batteries.
5. After returning from your trip, send the DS51 and other system components to
Ikelite for inspection and testing.
BBAATTTTEERR CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT ((ccoonntt..))
CCLLOOSSIINNGG TTHHEE CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT
Again, check that the o-ring and sealing surfaces are clean. Make sure the o-ring is back
in its original position and free of any debris.
Lubricating the o-ring will NOT result in a better “seal” to the strobe and is not recom-
mended. The o-ring is seated in the battery door channel and does not need to be
removed. Frequent removal of the o-ring can increase the risk of dirt or debris getting
into the o-ring channel and causing a leak. If the o-ring needs to be removed, do not use
a screwdriver or other sharp instrument that may damage the o-ring channel and result
in a leak.
Replace the battery door. Make sure the door fits into the recess around the battery
compartment. Rotate the knob clockwise several times and firmly hand-tighten to assure
the proper o-ring seal; otherwise, the battery compartment may leak. TThhee oo--rriinngg sseeaall iiss
vviissiibbllee tthhrroouugghh tthhee bbaatttteerryy ddoooorr.. VViissuuaallllyy ccoonnffiirrmm tthhaatt tthheerree iiss aa ssoolliidd bbllaacckk lliinnee wwhhiicchh
iinnddiiccaatteess aa sseeaall aallll tthhee wwaayy aarroouunndd tthhee ddoooorr..

13 14
SSTTRROOBBEE DDIIFFFFUUSSEERR
UUSSIINNGG TTHHEE DDIIFFFFUUSSEERR
The white diffuser can be secured to the front of the DS51 strobe when softer lighting
or a coverage angle of up to 80° is desired.
The diffuser reduces the DS51’s light intensity by one full f-stop. When the diffuser
is secured to the strobe, refer to the exposure guide information on page 11 and increase
the number by one.
For the TTL/auto mode example with an ISO rating of 100, if you set your camera to f-8
without the diffuser, you can shoot subjects up to 1.2m (4’) away, as stated on page 11. If
you add the diffuser to the strobe with the camera set at f-8 and using ISO 100, you
must reference one number greater than f-8 in the chart. In this case, that number is
f-11, which means you can shoot subjects up to 0.6m (2’) away.
DDIIFFFFUUSSEERR IINNSSTTAALLLLAATTIIOONN AANNDD RREEMMOOVVAALL
1. The white diffuser features two protruding tabs for use in installation and
removal. The tabs on the diffuser should be positioned away from the strobe.
2. Place the diffuser over the front of the strobe. Spread the two tabs apart, insert
the diffuser into the recessed front, and then rotate the diffuser until it locks
into position.
3. To remove the diffuser, bend one tab out towards the edge while lifting
simultaneously.
A lanyard or string can be attached to the diffuser by threading it through the two
circular openings near its edge. Attach the other end to the strobe arm to prevent
accidental loss.
Push and
Lift to Remove
Tab
Holes for
Lanyard
Tab
SSTTRROOBBEE RREEAADD LLIIGGHHTT
The Ikelite DS51 Substrobe features a ready light at the rear of the strobe that glows red
when the DS51 has recycled and is ready to fire it’s flash again. This recycling time should
not exceed 15 seconds. If the glow disappears for longer than 15 seconds between flashes,
it may be time for new batteries. (See “Changing the Batteries” on page 11.)
SSTTRROOBBEE RREEAADD LLIIGGHHTT AANNDD TTTTLL HHOOUUSSIINNGG
When the DS51 is in TTL mode and connected to an Ikelite DSLR housing, the strobe
ready light will glow green for approx. 2 seconds to indicate a correct 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 pow-
ered and ready to fire. If the strobe ready light does not glow red, the batteries may be
expended.
our camera’s ready light “lightning bolt” in the camera viewfinder may blink while the
DS51 is recycling and then glow solid when the DS51 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.
RREEAADD LLIIGGHHTTaanndd EEVV MMAANNUUAALL CCOONNTTRROOLLLLEERR
When using the DS51 strobe with the optional EV Manual Controller (page 10), without
optional sync cord, the strobe is not electronically connected to the camera. Therefore,
the ready light in the viewfinder of the camera indicates when the on-camera flash has
recycled. Examine both the camera and strobe ready lights to make sure both flashes
have fully recycled before taking the next picture.
Strobe
Ready
Light

16
15
MMOODDEE SSWWIITTCCHH
The DS51 Substrobe’s mode switch has eight different positions: OFF, TTL/auto exposure
setting, and six manual exposure settings. Refer to illustrations on page 16.
OOFFFF PPOOSSIITTIIOONN ((Refer to illustrations on page 16)
(Fig.1) Shows the mode switch in the OFF position. The white indicator on the knob
aligns with OFF. Always turn the substrobe to OFF before connecting or disconnecting a
sync cord or opening the battery compartment.
TTTTLL//AAUUTTOO EEXXPPOOSSUURREE PPOOSSIITTIIOONN ((Refer to illustrations on page 16)
(Fig.2) Shows the mode switch in the TTL (Thru-the-Lens) / auto exposure position.
From the OFF position, rotate the switch clockwise to access the TTL/auto exposure
setting; the white indicator on the knob aligns with TTL. When taking pictures with the
mode switch in this position, the camera automatically signals the strobe to turn off
when the exposure is correct.
• When the DS51 is connected directly to the camera, the camera must feature
compatible TTL/auto exposure to utilize this mode.
• The TTL/auto firing mode must be selected when connecting the EV Manual Controller
#4100.6 (page 10).
MMAANNUUAALL EEXXPPOOSSUURREE PPOOSSIITTIIOONN ((Refer to illustrations on page 16)
Figure 3 shows the mode switch in the manual exposure mode with the DS51 Substrobe
turned to the F (full power) position. Rotate the mode switch clockwise to access the
different power settings. Each power setting clockwise from F reduces the light output
of the DS51 Substrobe in one-half f-stop increments. When shooting in the manual
mode, it is suggested that you start the strobe at full power and adjust the camera’s
aperture based on the strobe-to-subject distance.
If the subject in the photo is underexposed (dark) you must move closer to the subject.
If the subject is overexposed (light), then you can rotate the mode switch clockwise to
reduce the light output of the strobe until the desired exposure is obtained. The DS51
provides five reductions in power in one-half f-stop increments from the full power
setting. (Fig.4), for example, shows the mode switch set to -1 and 1/2 f-stops.
DDoo nnoott uussee mmaannuuaall ssttrroobbee sseettttiinnggss wwiitthh aa ccaammeerraa tthhaatt eemmiittss ““pprree--ffllaasshh””.. LLeeaavvee tthhee DDSS5511
iinn tthhee TTTTLL ppoossiittiioonn aanndd aaddjjuusstt eexxppoossuurree uussiinngg yyoouurr ccaammeerraa sseettttiinnggss oorr hhoouussiinngg
ccoonnvveerrssiioonn cciirrccuuiittrryy ((iiff aapppplliiccaabbllee))..
Strobe
Ready
Light
Mode Switch
Waterproof
Bulkhead
Cap
Battery Door
Knob
(Fig.1) (Fig.2)
(Fig.3) (Fig.4)
MMOODDEE SSWWIITTCCHH ((iilllluussttrraattiioonnss))

17 18
our Ikelite DS51 Substrobe should be given the same care and attention as your
other photographic equipment. After using your strobe in water, please follow these
instructions to insure the DS51’s longevity and good working order.
CCLLEEAANNIINNGG AANNDD SSTTOORRAAGGEE
CCaauuttiioonn:: Make sure the DS51’s battery door is on and tightened down before
exposing the strobe to water. Ideally, water should never enter the battery
compartment. If this does occur, see “Battery Compartment Flooding” on page 16.
1. Always rinse the exterior of the DS51 with fresh water after use, especially after
exposure to salt water. While rinsing, turn the mode switch to free salt or debris
that might have accumulated in the DS51’s recesses during the dive.
2. Dry the DS51 thoroughly.
3. Check the battery door’s o-ring and sealing surfaces for any debris and gently
wipe it away with a soft, lint free cloth. Lightly lubricate the exposed part of the
door’s o-ring.
4. Check the DS51’s bulkhead connector threads for debris. Gently wipe away with
a soft, lint free cloth or a cotton swab to clean the threads. Afterwards, lightly
lubricate them.
5. Remove the batteries and store the DS51 with the battery door lightly screwed
on; this will allow any hydrogen/air mixture to escape the battery compartment
and avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the o-ring that could cause it to flatten.
In addition to these procedures, it is strongly recommended that this strobe be
returned to Ikelite periodically for inspection and water pressure testing. Ideally your
DS51 should undergo this process every two years or 100 dives, whichever comes first.
MMAAIINNTTEENNAANNCCEE
VVIISSUUAALL IINNSSPPEECCTTIIOONNSS
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.
IINNSSUURRAANNCCEE
It is recommended that you add an aallll--rriisskk ffllooaatteerrto your homeowner’s and/or
renter’s insurance policy to cover your equipment against loss or damage. While the
Ikelite DS51 Substrobe has a limited warranty against manufacturing defects, it does
not cover customer neglect.
TTIIPPSS
• 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 between 70° and 80°.
• If possible, measure the light with a meter and set the camera aperture
accordingly. For balanced lighting between your subject and the background,
meter the available light and set the camera aperture accordingly. Using a narrower
aperture darkens the background. A wider aperture lightens the background and may
over-expose the photograph.
• More natural looking photos can be achieved through the addition of a second
external strobe. The Ikelite EV Manual Controller #4100.6 works well with a
second strobe when you plan on using manual exposure.
• Always carry spare batteries. Weak batteries are the cause of many strobe and
camera problems; check the voltage with a meter. NNoottee::it’s possible to buy bad
“new” batteries.
•DDoo nnoottfire the strobe more than 15 times in rapid succession. If this does happen,
allow the DS51 to cool off for at least 10 minutes before resuming photography.
LLUUBBRRIICCAANNTT
• Use only Ikelite brand silicone lubricant with Ikelite brand o-rings; other brand
lubricants can cause the Ikelite o-rings to swell in size.
•DDoo nnoottuse 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.
RREECCOOMMMMEENNDDAATTIIOONNSS

DS51 Substrobe_4044.1-02_0510
2019
WWAARRRRAANNTT SSEERRVVIICCEE
IIKKEELLIITTEE LLIIMMIITTEEDD WWAARRRRAANNTT
Ikelite Substrobes are warranted against any manufacturing defects for a period of
two years from the original date of purchase. All other Ikelite products are warranted
against any manufacturing defects for a period of one year from the original date of
purchase. Defective products should be returned prepaid to Ikelite. Ikelite will, at its
discretion, repair or replace such products, and will return them to the customer
prepaid. All other claims, of any nature, including, but not limited to bulb failure, are
not covered. Except as mentioned above, no other warranty, expressed or implied,
applies to this Ikelite product.
RREETTUURRNNIINNGG PPRROODDUUCCTTSS FFOORR SSEERRVVIICCEE
Ikelite is most interested in performing any service to assure that all products
perform as intended. For repair service, return the Ikelite product to the address below
with your name, address, phone number, and a brief description of the problem.
Evidence of purchase date must be provided to obtain warranty service. Thank you.
IIKKEELLIITTEE UUNNDDEERRWWAATTEERR SSSSTTEEMMSS
50 West 33rd Street
Indianapolis, IN 46208 USA
317-923-4523
wwwwww..iikkeelliittee..ccoomm
Email: [e-mail]
TTRROOUUBBLLEESSHHOOOOTTIINNGG
SSTTRROOBBEE WWIILLLL NNOOTT FFIIRREE
1. Check the DS51’s ready light. Turn the strobe’s mode switch to OFF and then
back to TTL. Make sure that the switch has actually clicked into position.
2. Check that the batteries are inserted according to the “+” and “-“ markings.
It is possible to buy bad “new” batteries, so check the voltage output with
a meter if possible. If using NiCad or NiMH batteries, make sure the charger is
operating properly and that the batteries are fully charged.
3. Check the mode switches on the camera and strobe.
4. Check the cord connections at the camera and strobe.
5. When using a sync cord between the camera and strobe, disconnect the cord
from the camera but leave the cord connected to the strobe. Then use the two
ends of a bent paper clip to connect different receptacles on the flash cord
contacts, as detailed in the diagram below. This process, known also as “shorting,”
creates a temporary circuit that can test-fire the strobe.
CCaauuttiioonn::When creating a circuit via paper clip, or “shorting,” pay close attention
to which two receptacles you connect. If you short across the wrong receptacles
on a TTL sync cord, you may damage the DS51’s electronics.
The specific receptacles to connect with the paper clip vary based on the type
of cord you own. Please refer to the diagram of two types of flash cord contacts.
IIkkeelliittee TTTTLL CCoorrdd::Point the raised half-circle at the end of the cord encompassing
the receptacles towards you, per the above diagram. Place one end of the paper
clip on the center receptacle and one end on the lower right-hand receptacle.
The DS51 should flash.
NNiikkoonnooss TTTTLL CCoorrdd::Point the indexing groove at the end of the cord towards you,
per the above diagram. Place one end of the paper clip on the top-most, center
receptacle and one end on the lower, right-hand receptacle. The DS51 should flash.
If the DS51 flashes, the source of the problem lies somewhere in the camera.
If the DS51 does not flash, please send both the strobe and cord used in the test to
an authorized Ikelite dealer or to Ikelite; see “Returning Products for Service”
on page 20.
DDoo nnoottattempt to repair the strobe or cord yourself. This may cause
further damage and void your Ikelite limited warranty.
Ikelite
Sync Cord
Nikonos
Sync Cord
Paper
Clip
Paper
Clip