impact EX-100A User manual

EX-100A Monolight
INSTRUCTIONS
www.impactstudiolighting.com
impact
Page 20
(back cover)
Page 1
(front cover)
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
For EX-100A accessories
and to see all of our lighting equipment,
please visit our Web site.
impactTM
TM

Thank you for your purchase of the Impact EX-100A Monolight. The
EX-100A Monolight is economical and lightweight, yet durable enough to
give you many years of trouble-free service and enjoyment. Please read
these operating instructions and safety precautions carefully before
operating this equipment.
Features
• Three-stop range – full power to 1/8 power, steplessly
• Built-in optical slave
• Modeling lamp can be set to proportional or full power
• Accepts Elinchrom-style reectors and head accessories
(8-inch grid reector included)
• Tactile, “grippy” feel that resists slipping, scratches, and shock damage
• Commonly available 1/8˝ mini-plug sync input
• Low 4.3V trigger voltage – safe for any camera’s circuitry
Power Requirements
This light comes in two models; one is designed for use with 110/120V AC power in the US
and the other for 220V AC power in Europe. Neither model can be used outside of its
native power region. Both are supplied with a three-prong, grounded plug. Do not
attempt to defeat this safety feature. If necessary, use only grounded extension cords
rated for six amps or greater.
Warning
There are no user-serviceable parts inside the unit. Only qualied service engineers
should access the inside of the case (Danger – high-voltage parts inside). Avoid damage
to both the ashtube and modeling lamp. If the modeling lamp or ashtube become
cracked or damaged in any way, they should be replaced immediately. Do not use your
ash unit in an environment where moisture or ammable vapor is likely to come in
contact with the unit. Turn the power off and unplug the power cord when the unit is not
in use. Always remove the modeling lamp and replace the protective cap when
transporting the unit. Avoid strong light falling onto the slave cell as it will prevent
efcient operation. If the unit blows a fuse, a replacement fuse can be inserted in the
pull-out compartment on the back of the unit. To ensure long life of the ash capacitors,
the ash unit should be powered up and red several times at least every two months.
All images in this manual are for illustrative purposes only. Your unit may differ slightly from the one pictured.
Page 2 Page 19
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
One-Year Limited Warranty

Mount on a stand
(1) Select a stand or support
system of suitable weight
and dimensions to ensure
stable operation of the unit.
Install Reector &
Modeling Lamp
(2) Remove the protective
cap by pressing in and
turning it counter-
clockwise. Pull the cap off
and set aside.
(3) Install the modeling
lamp by screwing it into the
threaded socket.
CAUTION: Do not touch the lamp with your bare hands. Oil residue from your ngers can
cause the surface of the lamp to heat unevenly and explode. Use white cotton gloves or a
clean cloth.
(4) Install the reector where the protective cap was before. Align the two notches on
the reector with the white guidelines on the ash unit, press the reector in and rotate
clockwise until it locks in place. Rotate the outer ring to secure the reector.
Note: Take care when tting or removing reectors or softboxes to not damage the
ashtube assembly. The ashtube is very delicate. Always switch off the unit and
disconnect the power before tting or changing lamps, ashtubes, reectors, or softboxes.
Preparing Your Monolight for Use
Page 18 Page 3
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1
3 4
2
Specications
EX-100A
Power Output 100 W/S
Guide Number130
Output Control Range Full power to 1/8 stepless
Recycling Time 1~2 seconds
Flash Duration 1/1000 ~ 1/1500 second
Flash Ready Indicator LED and audible beep
Modeling Lamp 60W (not to exceed 100W)
Triggers Sync cable, slave sensor, test button
Trigger Voltage 4.3V
Built-in Slave Cell Yes
Color Temperature 5800°K ±200°K
Flash Tube Plug-in type, user replaceable
Reector Mount Elinchrom-type
Sync Cable 1/8˝ phono jack
Power Source 110~120V AC, 60Hz
Circuit Protection 6.3A Fuse
Dimensions 9.5 × 7.75 × 5˝ (240 × 198 × 127 mm) – without reector
11.25 × 8.25 × 10.3˝ (285 × 210 × 262 mm) – with reector
Weight 2.6 lb. (1.2 kg)
1Guide Number is calculated at f/8, 10ft, ISO 100, using the included reector, and is a starting point.
You should perform your own evaluations to determine the results you prefer.
Contents of carton
Carefully remove the monolight from the box. You should have the following:
• monolight with protective cap and ashtube installed
• 60W modeling lamp • 8˝ grid reector • sync cable
• spare fuse • power cable • user manual
You may also have other items, such as a light stand, umbrella, or softbox,
if you purchased the EX-100A as part of a kit.

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A B
C
D
E
F G
HI
Best Practices
As with any ash unit, the useful life of the ash tube and the unit as a whole depends on
the way it is used. Avoiding excessive heat is the key to long life.
• The fast recycling feature of the EX-100A allows a rapid sequence of high-power
ashes. However, this feature should be used sparingly, since continuous rapid ashing
can cause overheating and subsequent damage to the ashtube and possibly the
internal electronics.
• Rapid sequences of ashes should always be followed by a reasonable cooling period;
10 to 20 minutes without ashing, or at a substantially reduced rate.
• Dimming or turning off the modeling lamp will reduce heat.
• Avoid rapid high-power ashing when using restrictive reectors such as snoots or
grid reectors, particularly if the unit is pointing downward.
• Do not ash over 12 shots per minute for over 10 minutes.
• Do not ash over eight shots per minute for over 30 minutes.
• Take special care when shooting in a high-temperature environment.

Legend
A – Recycle Indicator Light F – Fuse Holder
B – Photocell G – Power Socket
C – Power Regulator Dial H – On/Off Switch
D – Sync Jack I – Modeling Light Switch
E – Test Fire Button
Power Supply
Plug the power cord into the back of the ash unit. Before plugging the power cord into
the wall socket, make certain that the power switch is set to the OFF (circle) position.
Note: The EX-100A flash unit comes in two designs; one is designed for use with 110/120V
AC power in the US and the other for use with 220V AC power in Europe. Neither model can
be used outside of its native power region.
Power Switch
Turn the power switch to the ON (line) position.
The flash will sound a beep and then sound a
second beep indicating that ash power has been
reached and the unit is ready to re. The green
ready light will also be lit. We recommend
charging the flash unit for one hour prior to its
initial use and after an extended period of
inactivity (more than two weeks). If the unit is left
unused for a few months, or the unit has been
used predominantly at low power settings, we
recommend that the power be increased to the
maximum and the unit left switched on (with the
modeling lamp OFF) for at least 30 minutes, with
several test ashes red, to help preserve the life
of the capacitors.
Operating Instructions
Page 16 Page 5
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Safety and Maintenance Notes
Safety Notes
• Do not use your ash in an environment where moisture
may come in contact with the unit.
• A re hazard exists if ammable materials are placed in close proximity
to the ashtube or the modeling lamp. Do not use your ash
in an environment where ammable vapors are present.
• Do not restrict the ventilation holes when the ash is in use.
• Always switch off the power and disconnect the power cord
before changing the fuse, modeling lamp, or ashtube.
• Avoid placing cables where they can be tripped over.
Replace damaged cords immediately.
• Never use a ash unit with damaged covers, moldings, ashtube,
or modeling lamp. If the unit is dropped or damaged,
have it checked by a professional repair service before using.
• Due to the high-voltage circuitry inside this device,
do not attempt to disassemble or repair the unit yourself.
• Keep out of the reach of children.
Maintenance Notes
• Turn the power off and unplug the power cord when the ash is not in use.
• We recommend charging the ash unit for one to two hours prior to its initial use
and after an extended period of inactivity (more than two weeks).
• If the unit is left unused for a few months, or the unit has been used predominantly
at low power settings, we recommend that the power be increased
to the maximum and the unit left switched on (with the modeling lamp OFF)
occasionally for at least 30 minutes to help preserve the life of the capacitors.
• Avoid rapid, high-power ashing, especially when using restrictive reectors
such as snoots or grids. Excessive heat will shorten the lifespan of your ash unit,
modeling lamp, and ashtube.

Flash Output
The ash power output is variable over a three
f/stop range (four f/stops) from full power to 1/8
power in a stepless gradation. Flash power is
adjusted by rotating the power-regulator knob on
the back panel of the unit. The EX-100A will sound
a beep and the green indicator will light when the
unit has recycled and is ready to ash.
Lowering Flash Power
While raising the ash power requires no special
consideration, lowering the power does. Excess
power that has built up in the system’s capacitors
must be released. You must press the red test
button to manually “pop” the ash after a
power-lowering adjustment. The EX-100A will
then recycle to the lower power you’ve selected.
A beep will sound and the green indicator will
light when the unit has recycled and is ready to
ash again.
Caution: To avoid eye damage, do not look into the
strobe while ring. Do not re the ash in close
proximity to the face. Turn the unit off and unplug
the power cord when changing attachments.
Page 6 Page 15
Flash Settings Changing the Fuse
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
A 6.3A fuse is mounted in the rear panel and protects the circuitry of the flash unit. Turn
off the unit and disconnect the power supply before changing the fuse. Never replace
with a fuse of a different type or rating. A spare 6.3A fuse has been included with your
EX-100A monolight. Use a small screwdriver to release the fuse cover. Remove the old
fuse, place the new fuse in the slot, then replace the fuse holder.
Manually “pop” the ash when
reducing ash power. This will
ush the excess power in the
capacitors.

The Modeling Light switch is to the right of the
power switch and has three settings: Proportional
Mode, Full Power, and Off.
Proportional Mode
During normal use, most photographers will use a
monolight in “Proportional” Mode. The modeling
light intensity will increase or decrease in response
to changes in the ash power. To work in
Proportional Mode, rock the modeling light switch so
that bottom of the switch (marked with double
horizontal lines) is down.
Full Power
The EX-100A allows you to reduce the ash power
but keep your modeling light at full power. Rock the
modeling light switch so that the top of the switch
(marked with a single horizontal line) is down. The
modeling light will stay on at its full power.
Off
To turn off the modeling light, set the modeling light
switch to its middle position (marked with an “O”).
Modeling Light Settings
Page 14 Page 7
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Modeling light and ash power
are proportional
Modeling light set to full power
Modeling light is off
Changing the Flashtube
Discharge the Flash Unit
The charge in the flash unit must be discharged before removing the flashtube. Make
sure the flash unit is on. Push the TEST button on the rear panel of the flash. The unit will
flash, discharging the power. Immediately turn off the power switch on the rear panel.
Unplug the power cord from the power source. It is advisable to wait at least 30 minutes
before touching or removing the flashtube.
Remove Old Flashtube
First, remove any reflector, softbox, or ash head accessory. Then, using white cotton
gloves or a clean cloth, remove the modeling lamp. You will need to remove the retention
spring wrapped around the top of the flashtube. With needle-nose pliers, unhook the
retention spring loop. Using white cotton gloves or a clean cloth, grip the base of the
flashtube on each side. Carefully pull the flashtube from the flash unit.
Install New Flashtube
Make sure the power switch is off and the power cord is disconnected from the outlet.
Locate the two flashtube pin sockets above the modeling lamp socket. Using white
cotton gloves or a clean cloth, push the pins of the flashtube into the sockets using firm,
even pressure at the base of the flashtube. With needle-nose pliers, hook the retention
spring over the hook above the flashtube. Reinsert the modeling lamp using white cotton
gloves or a clean cloth. Reinstall the reflector.

Page 8 Page 13
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
TEST Button
There are three ways to trigger your ash, but the simplest is to press the red TEST
button. This is useful when you need to discharge the power built up in the ash unit,
for example, just before replacing the ashtube (more on that later).
Sync Connection
The sync jack on the EX-100A Monolight may be used for
direct connection to a camera set to ‘X’ synchronization.
Insert the “PC” end of the supplied sync cord into the
connection on your camera and the other mini-plug end
into the sync jack on the back panel of the EX-100A.
A radio slave receiver with a mini-plug may also be
plugged into this jack.
Photo Cell
The EX-100A Monolight features a photo cell which
allows the flash unit to be triggered by another flash.
This is called “Slave Mode.” The photo cell is located on
the back panel next to the ready light. The photo cell is
very sensitive, but some experimentation with
positioning may be necessary to ensure a reliable trigger,
particularly if the cell is not in the direct line of sight of
the triggering ash unit. Avoid directly illuminating the
photo cell from a continuous light source (such as ceiling
lights or windows) since this can prevent correct
operation. Very high ceilings can also affect the
operation of the photo cell.
The EX-100A is always in Slave Mode, even when using
sync cords. To disable the photo cell, cover both the
ready and photo cell sensors with black electrical tape.
Triggering the Flash
Sync connection: step 1
Sync connection: step 2
The photo cell sensor
Breaking Down Your Softbox
Turn off the power to your light head and
disconnect the power supply. Unmount the
softbox assembly from the monolight.
Remove both diffusers. Release a ex rod
by folding the corner of the softbox away
from its captured rod.
The second rod to be released should be
the one opposite the rst. Continue with
the third and fourth ex rods.
Pull the ex rods from the mounting ring.
Stow everything until the next shoot.
1
3 4
2

Page 12 Page 9
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
Use of Softboxes (Continued)
Umbrellas
An umbrella with a handle diameter of up to 9mm can be secured in the umbrella holder.
Firmly press the umbrella shaft through the holder. The locking knob is located beneath
the holder. Do not overtighten to avoid damaging the shaft of the umbrella. The reector
supplied with the Impact EX-100A features a slot through which you can feed the umbrella
shaft. Be sure to install the reector with the slot at the bottom.
Use of Umbrellas
The front diffuser attaches to touch
fasteners on the outside edge of the
softbox skin.
After you’ve attached the touch fasteners
on all four sides, pull the corners of the
diffuser over the corners of the softbox.
Mount your softbox onto the monolight.
Line up the notches with the white marks,
push in and turn clockwise until it locks.
You’re ready to shoot. You can angle the
softbox by releasing the locking arm.
Adjust positioning, then lock it back down.
9
11 12
10

Page 10 Page 11
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
Use of Softboxes
The EX-100A Monolight is often sold as a kit with an Impact softbox included. The following
instructions will guide you to set up the Impact softbox typically included in an EX-100A kit.
If you bought the EX-100A alone, you can use any softbox that has an Elinchrom mount.
Begin by unfolding the softbox skin.
Remove the rubber bands holding the ex
rods together.
Insert the small end of one of the ex rods
into the mounting ring. Be certain to insert
the rod as far as it will go.
Insert a second ex rod in the hole
opposite the rst one.
Pull the softbox skin over the mounting
ring. Align the corners with the ex rods.
1
3 4
2
Tuck the thick end of one of the ex rods
into a pocket in the corner of the softbox
skin.
Tuck the opposite ex rod into its pocket.
You’ll have to bend the rod a little to get it
to t.
Continue with the third and fourth ex
rods, inserting the small ends all the way
into the mounting ring rst.
The interior bafe attaches with touch
fasteners. You can leave this bafe off for
more intense light.
5
7 8
6

Page 10 Page 11
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
Use of Softboxes
The EX-100A Monolight is often sold as a kit with an Impact softbox included. The following
instructions will guide you to set up the Impact softbox typically included in an EX-100A kit.
If you bought the EX-100A alone, you can use any softbox that has an Elinchrom mount.
Begin by unfolding the softbox skin.
Remove the rubber bands holding the ex
rods together.
Insert the small end of one of the ex rods
into the mounting ring. Be certain to insert
the rod as far as it will go.
Insert a second ex rod in the hole
opposite the rst one.
Pull the softbox skin over the mounting
ring. Align the corners with the ex rods.
1
3 4
2
Tuck the thick end of one of the ex rods
into a pocket in the corner of the softbox
skin.
Tuck the opposite ex rod into its pocket.
You’ll have to bend the rod a little to get it
to t.
Continue with the third and fourth ex
rods, inserting the small ends all the way
into the mounting ring rst.
The interior bafe attaches with touch
fasteners. You can leave this bafe off for
more intense light.
5
7 8
6

Page 12 Page 9
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
Use of Softboxes (Continued)
Umbrellas
An umbrella with a handle diameter of up to 9mm can be secured in the umbrella holder.
Firmly press the umbrella shaft through the holder. The locking knob is located beneath
the holder. Do not overtighten to avoid damaging the shaft of the umbrella. The reector
supplied with the Impact EX-100A features a slot through which you can feed the umbrella
shaft. Be sure to install the reector with the slot at the bottom.
Use of Umbrellas
The front diffuser attaches to touch
fasteners on the outside edge of the
softbox skin.
After you’ve attached the touch fasteners
on all four sides, pull the corners of the
diffuser over the corners of the softbox.
Mount your softbox onto the monolight.
Line up the notches with the white marks,
push in and turn clockwise until it locks.
You’re ready to shoot. You can angle the
softbox by releasing the locking arm.
Adjust positioning, then lock it back down.
9
11 12
10

Page 8 Page 13
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
TEST Button
There are three ways to trigger your ash, but the simplest is to press the red TEST
button. This is useful when you need to discharge the power built up in the ash unit,
for example, just before replacing the ashtube (more on that later).
Sync Connection
The sync jack on the EX-100A Monolight may be used for
direct connection to a camera set to ‘X’ synchronization.
Insert the “PC” end of the supplied sync cord into the
connection on your camera and the other mini-plug end
into the sync jack on the back panel of the EX-100A.
A radio slave receiver with a mini-plug may also be
plugged into this jack.
Photo Cell
The EX-100A Monolight features a photo cell which
allows the flash unit to be triggered by another flash.
This is called “Slave Mode.” The photo cell is located on
the back panel next to the ready light. The photo cell is
very sensitive, but some experimentation with
positioning may be necessary to ensure a reliable trigger,
particularly if the cell is not in the direct line of sight of
the triggering ash unit. Avoid directly illuminating the
photo cell from a continuous light source (such as ceiling
lights or windows) since this can prevent correct
operation. Very high ceilings can also affect the
operation of the photo cell.
The EX-100A is always in Slave Mode, even when using
sync cords. To disable the photo cell, cover both the
ready and photo cell sensors with black electrical tape.
Triggering the Flash
Sync connection: step 1
Sync connection: step 2
The photo cell sensor
Breaking Down Your Softbox
Turn off the power to your light head and
disconnect the power supply. Unmount the
softbox assembly from the monolight.
Remove both diffusers. Release a ex rod
by folding the corner of the softbox away
from its captured rod.
The second rod to be released should be
the one opposite the rst. Continue with
the third and fourth ex rods.
Pull the ex rods from the mounting ring.
Stow everything until the next shoot.
1
3 4
2

The Modeling Light switch is to the right of the
power switch and has three settings: Proportional
Mode, Full Power, and Off.
Proportional Mode
During normal use, most photographers will use a
monolight in “Proportional” Mode. The modeling
light intensity will increase or decrease in response
to changes in the ash power. To work in
Proportional Mode, rock the modeling light switch so
that bottom of the switch (marked with double
horizontal lines) is down.
Full Power
The EX-100A allows you to reduce the ash power
but keep your modeling light at full power. Rock the
modeling light switch so that the top of the switch
(marked with a single horizontal line) is down. The
modeling light will stay on at its full power.
Off
To turn off the modeling light, set the modeling light
switch to its middle position (marked with an “O”).
Modeling Light Settings
Page 14 Page 7
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
Modeling light and ash power
are proportional
Modeling light set to full power
Modeling light is off
Changing the Flashtube
Discharge the Flash Unit
The charge in the flash unit must be discharged before removing the flashtube. Make
sure the flash unit is on. Push the TEST button on the rear panel of the flash. The unit will
flash, discharging the power. Immediately turn off the power switch on the rear panel.
Unplug the power cord from the power source. It is advisable to wait at least 30 minutes
before touching or removing the flashtube.
Remove Old Flashtube
First, remove any reflector, softbox, or ash head accessory. Then, using white cotton
gloves or a clean cloth, remove the modeling lamp. You will need to remove the retention
spring wrapped around the top of the flashtube. With needle-nose pliers, unhook the
retention spring loop. Using white cotton gloves or a clean cloth, grip the base of the
flashtube on each side. Carefully pull the flashtube from the flash unit.
Install New Flashtube
Make sure the power switch is off and the power cord is disconnected from the outlet.
Locate the two flashtube pin sockets above the modeling lamp socket. Using white
cotton gloves or a clean cloth, push the pins of the flashtube into the sockets using firm,
even pressure at the base of the flashtube. With needle-nose pliers, hook the retention
spring over the hook above the flashtube. Reinsert the modeling lamp using white cotton
gloves or a clean cloth. Reinstall the reflector.

Flash Output
The ash power output is variable over a three
f/stop range (four f/stops) from full power to 1/8
power in a stepless gradation. Flash power is
adjusted by rotating the power-regulator knob on
the back panel of the unit. The EX-100A will sound
a beep and the green indicator will light when the
unit has recycled and is ready to ash.
Lowering Flash Power
While raising the ash power requires no special
consideration, lowering the power does. Excess
power that has built up in the system’s capacitors
must be released. You must press the red test
button to manually “pop” the ash after a
power-lowering adjustment. The EX-100A will
then recycle to the lower power you’ve selected.
A beep will sound and the green indicator will
light when the unit has recycled and is ready to
ash again.
Caution: To avoid eye damage, do not look into the
strobe while ring. Do not re the ash in close
proximity to the face. Turn the unit off and unplug
the power cord when changing attachments.
Page 6 Page 15
Flash Settings Changing the Fuse
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
A 6.3A fuse is mounted in the rear panel and protects the circuitry of the flash unit. Turn
off the unit and disconnect the power supply before changing the fuse. Never replace
with a fuse of a different type or rating. A spare 6.3A fuse has been included with your
EX-100A monolight. Use a small screwdriver to release the fuse cover. Remove the old
fuse, place the new fuse in the slot, then replace the fuse holder.
Manually “pop” the ash when
reducing ash power. This will
ush the excess power in the
capacitors.

Legend
A – Recycle Indicator Light F – Fuse Holder
B – Photocell G – Power Socket
C – Power Regulator Dial H – On/Off Switch
D – Sync Jack I – Modeling Light Switch
E – Test Fire Button
Power Supply
Plug the power cord into the back of the ash unit. Before plugging the power cord into
the wall socket, make certain that the power switch is set to the OFF (circle) position.
Note: The EX-100A flash unit comes in two designs; one is designed for use with 110/120V
AC power in the US and the other for use with 220V AC power in Europe. Neither model can
be used outside of its native power region.
Power Switch
Turn the power switch to the ON (line) position.
The flash will sound a beep and then sound a
second beep indicating that ash power has been
reached and the unit is ready to re. The green
ready light will also be lit. We recommend
charging the flash unit for one hour prior to its
initial use and after an extended period of
inactivity (more than two weeks). If the unit is left
unused for a few months, or the unit has been
used predominantly at low power settings, we
recommend that the power be increased to the
maximum and the unit left switched on (with the
modeling lamp OFF) for at least 30 minutes, with
several test ashes red, to help preserve the life
of the capacitors.
Operating Instructions
Page 16 Page 5
10M 25M 50M 75M 100M 10Y 25Y 50Y 75Y 100Y
Safety and Maintenance Notes
Safety Notes
• Do not use your ash in an environment where moisture
may come in contact with the unit.
• A re hazard exists if ammable materials are placed in close proximity
to the ashtube or the modeling lamp. Do not use your ash
in an environment where ammable vapors are present.
• Do not restrict the ventilation holes when the ash is in use.
• Always switch off the power and disconnect the power cord
before changing the fuse, modeling lamp, or ashtube.
• Avoid placing cables where they can be tripped over.
Replace damaged cords immediately.
• Never use a ash unit with damaged covers, moldings, ashtube,
or modeling lamp. If the unit is dropped or damaged,
have it checked by a professional repair service before using.
• Due to the high-voltage circuitry inside this device,
do not attempt to disassemble or repair the unit yourself.
• Keep out of the reach of children.
Maintenance Notes
• Turn the power off and unplug the power cord when the ash is not in use.
• We recommend charging the ash unit for one to two hours prior to its initial use
and after an extended period of inactivity (more than two weeks).
• If the unit is left unused for a few months, or the unit has been used predominantly
at low power settings, we recommend that the power be increased
to the maximum and the unit left switched on (with the modeling lamp OFF)
occasionally for at least 30 minutes to help preserve the life of the capacitors.
• Avoid rapid, high-power ashing, especially when using restrictive reectors
such as snoots or grids. Excessive heat will shorten the lifespan of your ash unit,
modeling lamp, and ashtube.

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Best Practices
As with any ash unit, the useful life of the ash tube and the unit as a whole depends on
the way it is used. Avoiding excessive heat is the key to long life.
• The fast recycling feature of the EX-100A allows a rapid sequence of high-power
ashes. However, this feature should be used sparingly, since continuous rapid ashing
can cause overheating and subsequent damage to the ashtube and possibly the
internal electronics.
• Rapid sequences of ashes should always be followed by a reasonable cooling period;
10 to 20 minutes without ashing, or at a substantially reduced rate.
• Dimming or turning off the modeling lamp will reduce heat.
• Avoid rapid high-power ashing when using restrictive reectors such as snoots or
grid reectors, particularly if the unit is pointing downward.
• Do not ash over 12 shots per minute for over 10 minutes.
• Do not ash over eight shots per minute for over 30 minutes.
• Take special care when shooting in a high-temperature environment.

Mount on a stand
(1) Select a stand or support
system of suitable weight
and dimensions to ensure
stable operation of the unit.
Install Reector &
Modeling Lamp
(2) Remove the protective
cap by pressing in and
turning it counter-
clockwise. Pull the cap off
and set aside.
(3) Install the modeling
lamp by screwing it into the
threaded socket.
CAUTION: Do not touch the lamp with your bare hands. Oil residue from your ngers can
cause the surface of the lamp to heat unevenly and explode. Use white cotton gloves or a
clean cloth.
(4) Install the reector where the protective cap was before. Align the two notches on
the reector with the white guidelines on the ash unit, press the reector in and rotate
clockwise until it locks in place. Rotate the outer ring to secure the reector.
Note: Take care when tting or removing reectors or softboxes to not damage the
ashtube assembly. The ashtube is very delicate. Always switch off the unit and
disconnect the power before tting or changing lamps, ashtubes, reectors, or softboxes.
Preparing Your Monolight for Use
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Specications
EX-100A
Power Output 100 W/S
Guide Number130
Output Control Range Full power to 1/8 stepless
Recycling Time 1~2 seconds
Flash Duration 1/1000 ~ 1/1500 second
Flash Ready Indicator LED and audible beep
Modeling Lamp 60W (not to exceed 100W)
Triggers Sync cable, slave sensor, test button
Trigger Voltage 4.3V
Built-in Slave Cell Yes
Color Temperature 5800°K ±200°K
Flash Tube Plug-in type, user replaceable
Reector Mount Elinchrom-type
Sync Cable 1/8˝ phono jack
Power Source 110~120V AC, 60Hz
Circuit Protection 6.3A Fuse
Dimensions 9.5 × 7.75 × 5˝ (240 × 198 × 127 mm) – without reector
11.25 × 8.25 × 10.3˝ (285 × 210 × 262 mm) – with reector
Weight 2.6 lb. (1.2 kg)
1Guide Number is calculated at f/8, 10ft, ISO 100, using the included reector, and is a starting point.
You should perform your own evaluations to determine the results you prefer.
Contents of carton
Carefully remove the monolight from the box. You should have the following:
• monolight with protective cap and ashtube installed
• 60W modeling lamp • 8˝ grid reector • sync cable
• spare fuse • power cable • user manual
You may also have other items, such as a light stand, umbrella, or softbox,
if you purchased the EX-100A as part of a kit.

Thank you for your purchase of the Impact EX-100A Monolight. The
EX-100A Monolight is economical and lightweight, yet durable enough to
give you many years of trouble-free service and enjoyment. Please read
these operating instructions and safety precautions carefully before
operating this equipment.
Features
• Three-stop range – full power to 1/8 power, steplessly
• Built-in optical slave
• Modeling lamp can be set to proportional or full power
• Accepts Elinchrom-style reectors and head accessories
(8-inch grid reector included)
• Tactile, “grippy” feel that resists slipping, scratches, and shock damage
• Commonly available 1/8˝ mini-plug sync input
• Low 4.3V trigger voltage – safe for any camera’s circuitry
Power Requirements
This light comes in two models; one is designed for use with 110/120V AC power in the US
and the other for 220V AC power in Europe. Neither model can be used outside of its
native power region. Both are supplied with a three-prong, grounded plug. Do not
attempt to defeat this safety feature. If necessary, use only grounded extension cords
rated for six amps or greater.
Warning
There are no user-serviceable parts inside the unit. Only qualied service engineers
should access the inside of the case (Danger – high-voltage parts inside). Avoid damage
to both the ashtube and modeling lamp. If the modeling lamp or ashtube become
cracked or damaged in any way, they should be replaced immediately. Do not use your
ash unit in an environment where moisture or ammable vapor is likely to come in
contact with the unit. Turn the power off and unplug the power cord when the unit is not
in use. Always remove the modeling lamp and replace the protective cap when
transporting the unit. Avoid strong light falling onto the slave cell as it will prevent
efcient operation. If the unit blows a fuse, a replacement fuse can be inserted in the
pull-out compartment on the back of the unit. To ensure long life of the ash capacitors,
the ash unit should be powered up and red several times at least every two months.
All images in this manual are for illustrative purposes only. Your unit may differ slightly from the one pictured.
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One-Year Limited Warranty
This IMPACT product is warranted to the original purchaser to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship under normal consumer use for a period of one (1) year
from the original purchase date or thirty (30) days after replacement, whichever occurs
later. The warranty provider’s responsibility with respect to this limited warranty shall
be limited solely to repair or replacement, at the provider’s discretion, of any product
that fails during normal use of this product in its intended manner and in its intended
environment. Inoperability of the product or part(s) shall be determined by the warranty
provider. If the product has been discontinued, the warranty provider reserves the right
to replace it with a model of equivalent quality and function.
This warranty does not cover damage or defect caused by misuse, neglect, accident,
alteration, abuse, improper installation or maintenance. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN,
THE WARRANTY PROVIDER MAKES NEITHER ANY EXPRESS WARRANTIES NOR ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. This warranty
provides you with specic legal rights, and you may also have additional rights that vary
from state to state.
To obtain warranty coverage, contact the Impact Customer Service Department to
obtain a return merchandise authorization (“RMA”) number, and return the defective
product to Impact along with the RMA number and proof of purchase. Shipment of the
defective product is at the purchaser’s own risk and expense.
For more information or to arrange service, visit www.impactstudiolighting.com or call
Customer Service at 212-594-2353.
Product warranty provided by the Gradus Group.
www.gradusgroup.com
IMPACT is a registered trademark of the Gradus Group.
© 2014 Gradus Group LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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