PoketWizard MultiMax User manual

www.PocketWizard.com
Owner’s Manual

2

3
Congratulations on the purchase of your new PocketWizard
MultiMAX digital radio triggering system.
The PocketWizard MultiMAX is a microprocessor-based radio slave system
that uses advanced digital signaling to increase triggering range, reliability and
reject radio noise from other sources. Since is utilizes Transceiver technology,
it is both a transmitter and a receiver all in one. It is the most innovative and
advanced wireless solution in the photographic industry.
As a stand-alone unit, the MultiMAX offers precision special effects functions
not available in any wireless triggering device. It incorporates integrated
Trigger Time Control software, True Trigger Confirmation and Selective Quad
Triggering, all of which offer solutions to photographic challenges that hinder
today’s photographer’s creativity. Unparalleled in features and performance, the
PocketWizard MultiMAX is more than just a radio slave.
Welcome to Digital Wireless Freedom!
Manufactured in the United States of America by:
LPA Design
41 IDX Drive
Suite 265
South Burlington, VT 05403

4
Table of ConTenTs
“TheFCCWantsYouToKnow”......................................7
IconsUsedinthisManual..........................................8
Features .......................................................9
CommunicationTechnology .....................................9
BasicFeatures................................................9
SpecialFeatures ..............................................9
PartReference .................................................10
LCDInformation................................................11
Controls ......................................................12
PowerSwitch ...............................................12
Keypad ....................................................12
PORT1/PORT2.............................................12
StatusLED..................................................12
GettingStarted.................................................13
SafetyWarnings .............................................13
BatteryInformation...........................................13
BatteryLife...............................................14
Mounting .....................................................14
VELCRO®...................................................14
1/4-20Mount ...............................................14
ShoeMount ................................................14
Lanyard....................................................14
Quick Setup - Basic Radio Slave Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
BasicSetupforRemoteFlash...................................15
Triggering Multiple Flashes With Multiple RECEIVE Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Connecting MultiMAX (set for TRANSMIT mode) to Flash . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
StandardRadioOperation.........................................17
TransceiverControl...........................................17
Channels...................................................17
Compatibility................................................18
Selective Quad-Triggering (A B C D keys) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
ClassicChannels...........................................20
LKey....................................................20

5
TrueConfirmation............................................21
Radio ...................................................21
Optional Flash Confirmation Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
MenuSystem..................................................23
Navigation..................................................23
NumericEntry.............................................24
MainMenu....................................................25
A:AdvancedMenu............................................25
B:BasicSettings.............................................25
C:CounterMenu.............................................25
D:GoAdvanced..............................................25
D:GoNormal................................................25
BasicSettings..................................................26
A:ContactTime..............................................26
B:BeepMenu ...............................................28
A:BeeponAll.............................................28
B:BeeponTrigger..........................................28
D:BeepDisable............................................28
C:LCDContrastAdjustment....................................29
D:RESET...................................................29
CounterMenu..................................................30
A:CountUp+Reset ..........................................30
B:CountDown+Reset........................................30
C:Clear/Reset..............................................30
D:Disable ..................................................30
AdvancedMenu ................................................31
A:DelayMenu-TRANSMITTER.................................31
A:Remotes+PORT2.......................................31
B:RemotesOnly...........................................32
C:RearCurtain............................................32
A:DelayMenu-RECEIVER.....................................33
A:PORT1+PORT2........................................33
B:PORT2................................................33
C:Equalize ...............................................34
B: Intervalometer (Time Lapse Photography) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
C:Multipop.................................................36
D:SpeedCycler-TRANSMITTER.................................37

6
OtherFeatures .................................................38
KeypadLock................................................38
HighVoltageProtection........................................38
Relay Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
SoftwareVersionDisplay.......................................39
ApplicationsofAdvancedFunctions.................................40
Self-TimerorCableRelease ....................................40
TTL/AutoflashHelper........................................40
Programmedsequenceshooting.................................41
RecycleLockout .............................................41
CameraEqualization ..........................................42
LagTimeMeasurement......................................43
OneUnitEqualization.......................................46
TwoUnitEqualization.......................................46
EqualizationAdjustments....................................48
TechnicalInformation............................................49
Specifications ...............................................49
RadioInformation............................................50
MaximumandMinimumSettings................................51
SavedSettings...............................................51
Troubleshooting................................................52
Whenindoubt!..............................................52
ResettoDefaultFactorySettings ................................52
SustainingHighPerformance......................................53
TimeConversionCharts..........................................54
FractionstoDecimal..........................................54
SecondstoMinutesandHours..................................54
To find the correct PocketWizard brand cables for your
flash and cameras, and to experience other products like
the Plus II, please visit www.PocketWizard.com or
your local photography dealer.

7
This US frequency MultiMAX is compatible with all US frequency PocketWizard products.
It is not frequency compatible with CE or JAPAN PocketWizard products. Verify frequency
compatibility before purchasing. Some products are not manufactured on every frequency. Always
operate within local radio regulations.
The fCC wanTs you To know:
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
1. Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
2. Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
3. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or television technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and also with RSS-210 of Industry &
Science Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may
not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.

8
ICons used In ThIs Manual
N
Read the information following this icon. It shows important notes about thesubject
being discussed.
☞
Follow this icon for more detailed information on the subject in another section.
Î
Find valuable tips and techniques with this icon.
Warning or caution.
Refer to www.pocketwizard.com for updated information.

9
feaTures
Communication Technology
Full Digital Radio Communication
Microprocessor controlled
32 digitally coded channels
Complex 16 or 24 bit coded signal
Selective Quad-Triggering
Basic Features
Built-in hot shoe
1/4-20 female mounting thread
Built-In AC adapter jack (see Page 49 for ordering information)
Illuminated LCD panel
Illuminated soft touch keypad
60 Hours battery life (depending on usage)
Sync speeds up to 1/250 with focal plane shutter,1/500 with leaf shutter
Adjustable contact closure time
Compatible with all US frequency PocketWizard products (see Page 7)
Protects cameras from high sync voltage
Customizable audible beep settings
Weighs less than 5.5 ounces with batteries
Special Features
Transceiver Technology
True Confirmation
Quad-Triggering Confirmation on all four zones
Flash Confirmation with Optional Cable on all four zones
Trigger Time Controller Software
Rear Curtain Sync
Precision Delays
Intervalometer
Multipop
Lag Time Measurement
Multiple Camera Equalization
SpeedCycler
Relay Mode
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

10
MulTIMax ParT referenCe
Lanyard
Loop
Status Light
PORT 2
Output
PORT 1
Input / Output
LCD (Liquid
Crystal Display)
Power /
TRANSMIT /
RECEIVE
Mode Switch
Hot Shoe
Input
MENU Key
Channel /
Numeric Entry
UP / DOWN Keys
Zone / Menu /
Numeric Entry Keys
Battery
Door
¼ - 20
Tripod
Mount
Battery
Door
Latch
Flexible Antenna
ACC Port
TEST Button
Back Light / Key Lock
See page 49
for AC power
information.

11
lCd InforMaTIon

12
ConTrols
Power Switch
TRANSMIT = Unit is powered on in TRANSMITTER (TX) mode
RECEIVE = Unit is powered on in RECEIVER (RX) mode
OFF = Unit is powered OFF
Keypad
A B C D L = Selects Quad-Triggering Zones and
Local. Also used in menu navigation and numeric entry
TEST = Triggers MultiMAX. Press to test operation or to
trigger remote units and/or attached cameras/flashes
Illuminates LCD and keypad. Hold down for key
lock. Pressing it while in any menu will bring you back
to the Main Screen.
/MENU = enters menus, and is used to enter or select items.
▲▼ Used for menu selection, selecting channels and numeric entry.
Port 1 / Port 2
CAMERA / PORT 1 =
Input from camera sync terminal, external trigger
button, Flash Confirmation Cable, or other device
Output to camera motor drive, flash, or other device
FLASH / PORT 2 = Output to flash, camera motor drive, or
other device
Status LED
Displays the following information:
Blinking every few seconds = power on, ready for trigger
Blinking in sync with trigger = normal triggering
Steady =
continuously triggered from radio, hot shoe, or PORT 1
performing delay or contact time
Once every two seconds = performing Intervalometer or Multi-pop function
Dark = power off or poor battery condition
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
–
–
•
•
•
•
–
–
•
•
Power SwitchPower Switch
KeypadKeypad
Port 1, Port 2, Status LEDPort 1, Port 2, Status LED

13
GeTTInG sTarTed
Please pay attention to the following safety warnings:
Operating temperature: above -15° C (5° F) and below 50° C (120° F)
Storage temperature, without batteries: above -30° C (-22° F) and below 85° C (185° F)
Remove batteries during storage.
Battery Requirements: IEC:LR6 (AA) Size
Do not remove instrument covers during operation.
Do not operate the device in the presence of flammable gases or fumes.
Operation of any electrical instrument in such an environment constitutes
a definite safety hazard.
There are no user serviceable parts inside the MultiMAX. Do not install
substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification of the instrument.
Refer servicing only to qualified and authorized personnel.
Red LED’s are used for dim light application and do not indicate a hazardous status.
The MultiMAX is an accessory device for cameras and flashes.
Do not use this product in a manner not specified in documentation.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Battery Information
CAUTION: Turn OFF your equipment (PocketWizard units, electronic flash
units, cameras, etc.) before making connections or changing batteries.
Install 2 fresh AA (IEC:LR6) batteries into the MultiMAX. Make sure to note
proper polarity. Alkaline batteries are recommended. Rechargeable batteries
will also work, though operation time may be reduced.
WARNING – To avoid battery leakage, follow these guidelines:
• Always remove the batteries when the unit is not in use for extended periods of time,
or during shipping or long distance travel.
• Never mix old and new batteries. Always use a fresh pair of matched batteries.
• Always change batteries promptly at the first indication of low battery operation.
• Do not use or leave the unit in extreme temperature or humidity situations.
See “Technical Information” for normal operating and storage temperatures.
NErratic unit behavior or malfunction may occur if batteries are inserted while the
power switch is set to either RECEIVE or TRANSMIT. Always make sure the power
switch is set to OFF before changing or inserting batteries.

14
Battery Life
The MultiMAX displays remaining battery life with a 3 segment battery
icon in the upper left corner of the LCD:
3 segments displayed = batteries are fresh/new
2 segments displayed = batteries are good
1 segment displayed = replace batteries soon
0 segments displayed = install fresh/new batteries immediately
With one set of standard Alkaline batteries the MultiMAX will operate for approximately
60 hours. When using Intervalometer or Multipop modes exclusively, battery life can be
200 – 300 hours. This time may vary depending on temperature, battery type, and the
quality of batteries used. Extensive use of back light, speaker, or extended trigger contact
times will consume the batteries at a faster rate.
The MultiMAX continually regulates the battery power which gives excellent performance
throughout the life of the batteries. The unit will continue to function normally until the
batteries are nearly exhausted.
NThe MultiMAX voltage regulation is very efficient. There is only a small benefit when
using Lithium batteries. Lithium batteries are designed for the quick burst high current
draw found in cameras and portable flash devices. Expect only a 10 - 20% longer
battery life (approximate) over Alkaline batteries when using Lithium batteries.
MounTInG
Mount a remote MultiMAX using any of the included methods.
See Sustaining High Performance (page 53) for more mounting information.
VELCRO®
For tripods,
mounting arms,
isolation bars,
brackets, etc.
1/4-20 Mount
For mounting on
a bracket shoe, cold
or dead shoe, etc.
For hanging from a
light stand, flash handle,
tripod knob, belt, etc.
Lanyard
Shoe Mount
For attaching to
flashes, brackets,
cameras, etc.

15
QuICk seTuP - basIC radIo slave oPeraTIon
Basic Setup for Remote Flash
Turn off all equipment before installing batteries or making connections!
1. Install 2 AA batteries in each MultiMAX
2. Connect camera to first MultiMAX:
Slide unit into camera hot shoe
- or -
Use sync cable to connect camera’s PC terminal to CAMERA / PORT 1
3. Connect flash to second MultiMAX
Use flash cable to connect flash unit’s sync terminal to FLASH / PORT 2
4. Turn both MultiMAX units on
Set power switch on MultiMAX attached to camera to TRANSMIT mode
Set power switch on MultiMAX attached to flash to RECEIVE mode
5. Set both MultiMAX units to same channel and Quad-Triggering zone
Use ▲▼ to set channel (default is CH: 17)
Use A B C D L to select Quad-Triggering zones
(default is TRANSMIT = A B C D L, RECEIVE = A)
6. Turn camera and flash on
7. Press TEST button on MultiMAX (set for TRANSMIT mode) and release.
Confirm remote flash triggers.
You’re all set! Use the camera normally.
a.
b.
a.
a.
b.
a.
b.

16
Triggering Multiple Flashes With Multiple RECEIVE Units
Multiple remote flash units may be triggered in sync with each other.
1. Install batteries in each additional MultiMAX unit
2. Use flash cable to connect each additional flash unit’s sync terminal to FLASH / PORT 2
3. Set power switch on each additional MultiMAX unit to RECEIVE mode
4. Set all MultiMAX units to same channel as TRANSMIT unit
You’re all set! Use the camera normally.
Connecting MultiMAX (set for TRANSMIT mode) to Flash
A flash can be connected to a MultiMAX (set for TRANSMIT mode). It will trigger in sync
with the remote flash units. This flash is called the local flash and is usually mounted on a
camera bracket.
1. Use a flash cable to connect the flash unit’s sync terminal to FLASH / PORT 2 of
the MultiMAX (set for TRANSMIT mode)
2. Use the Lkey to enable or disable the Local flash
You’re all set! Use the camera normally.
☞Using a local flash this way protects the camera from high voltages.
See the Specifications section, Page 49, for more information.

17
sTandard radIo oPeraTIon
Transceiver Control
The MultiMAX operates as either a transmitter or a receiver. To use the MultiMAX as a
Transmitter (sending device) set the power switch to TRANSMIT. To use the MultiMAX as a
Receiver set the power switch to RECEIVE.
☞There is a special mode that enables a MultiMAX to automatically switch from
RECEIVE to TRANSMIT then back to RECEIVE while triggering a remote camera. Read
the Relay Mode section, Page 39, for more information.
Channels
The MultiMAX is a 32 channel digital radio slave. Each MultiMAX channel represents a
digital code transmitted on specific PocketWizard radio frequencies. This enables many
photographers to work in the same area. It also enables a photographer to control multiple
remote devices (cameras, flash units, etc).
A MultiMAX (set for TRANSMIT mode) will trigger any number of MultiMAX units (set for
RECEIVE mode) set to the same channel. Units set to different channels will not interfere
with each other.
From the main screen press the ▲▼ keys to change channels.
Some MultiMAX features are only available on higher channels. Refer to the table below for
features / channels availability:
Features Channels 1-16 Channels 17-32
Digital Radio Signal. X X
Delay including Rear Curtain Sync X X
Intervalometer X X
Multipop X X
Relay Mode X X
Selective Quad-Triggering X
Confirmation (Radio and Flash) X
SpeedCycler X

18
Compatibility
MultiMAX channels are compatible with all PocketWizard radio slave products per the table below:
Digital Radio Model MultiMAX Compatible Channels
Older MultiMAX units 1-16
17-32 Quad-Triggering or Fast Mode
PocketWizard 10 Channel Classic 1-10
PocketWizard 16 Channel Classic 1-16
PocketWizard Plus
PocketWizard Plus II
1-4
PocketWizard MAX 1-16
17-32 Quad-Triggering or Fast Mode
Sekonic Digital Radio Transmitter
Module RT-32 (L358, L608, L608 CINE)
1-16
17-32 Quad-Triggering
Sekonic Digital Radio Receiver RR-4 1-4
Sekonic Digital Radio Receiver RR-32 1-16
17-32 Quad-Triggering or Fast Mode
Calumet Radio Equipped Turbo Filter 1-9
Profoto Flash Packs with built-in PocketWizard
Recievers
1 – 16
1 – 32 Quad-Triggering
Norman Flash Packs with built-in PocketWizard
Recievers
1 – 16
1 – 32 Quad-Triggering
Dyna-Lite Flash Packs with built-in PocketWizard
Recievers
1 – 16
1 – 32 Quad-Triggering
Kodak DCS Pro 14n, DCS Pro 14nx, and DCS Pro
SLR/n Digital Cameras with PocketWizard Upgrade
1 – 16
1 – 32 Quad-Triggering
Nikon D1 series with PocketWizard Upgrade 1 – 16
1 – 32 Quad-Triggering
The digital radio design of the MultiMAX will enable it to be fully compatible with
future PocketWizard products.
PocketWizard manufactures products for 3 different world frequencies: US, CE, and JAPAN. Not every
product is manufactured for every frequency. Products manufactured for one world frequency are
NOT compatible with products from another. Make sure to order products that are compatible with the
frequency you already own, or are legal for use in your world region.
PocketWizard manufactures products for 3 different world frequencies: US, CE, and JAPAN. Not every
product is manufactured for every frequency. Products manufactured for one world frequency are
NOT compatible with products from another. Make sure to order products that are compatible with the
frequency you already own, or are legal for use in your world region.

19
Selective Quad-Triggering (A B C D keys)
This powerful feature is used to individually control up to
4 sets of MultiMAX units (set for RECEIVE mode) on the
same channel. Each keypad letter, A B C D refers to an
individual zone. Each zone can be independently selected
or deselected from a MultiMAX (set for TRANSMIT mode).
Follow the steps below to test Quad-Triggering:
1. Set one MultiMAX to TRANSMIT mode
2. Set up to 4 MultiMAX units to RECEIVE mode (same
channel as TRANSMIT unit)
3. Using the A B C D L keys set each RECEIVE unit
to a different zone
4. On the TRANSMIT unit use the A B C D L keys to
select which zones will trigger. The zone is selected
when the letter is displayed on the LCD screen. The
zone is deselected when a dot appears where the
letter would be displayed.
5. Press the TEST key on the MultiMAX (set for
TRANSMIT mode) unit to trigger the selected zones
Any number of MultiMAX units (set for RECEIVE mode)
may be set to the same channel and zone, and will
trigger simultaneously. Selective Quad-Triggering is only
available on channels 17 and higher.
TRANSMIT unit
Channel: 17
Zones: A, B, and Local
RECEIVE unit
Channel: 17, Zone: A
RECEIVE unit
Channel: 17, Zone: B
TRANSMIT unit
Channel: 17
Zones: A, B, and Local
RECEIVE unit
Channel: 17, Zone: A
RECEIVE unit
Channel: 17, Zone: B

20
Classic Channels
Classic channels are compatible with early PocketWizard
models and the PocketWizard Plus. Selective Quad-
Triggering is only available in channels 17 through 32. In
channels 1 through 16 the display will show CLASSIC
CHANNEL and zones A B C D do not appear. The Akey
simply toggles the remote receivers on or off and is
displayed on the main screen as R. It is not possible to
toggle both the remote (Akey) and the local flash (Lkey)
off at the same time when using a CLASSIC CHANNEL.
Operation on these channels is identical to the function of
the LOCAL / BOTH / REMOTE switch found on
PocketWizard Plus and Classic Transmitters.
LKey = On any channel the Lkey toggles the local flash on or off in a MultiMAX (set for
TRANSMIT mode).
☞See the Connecting MultiMAX (set for TRANSMIT mode) to Flash section, Page 16,
for more information.
☞The Lkey toggles Relay Mode when using a MultiMAX (set for RECEIVE mode). See
the Relay Mode section, Page 39, for more information.
TRANSMIT unit set to
CLASSIC CHANNEL 4
Remote and Local selected
TRANSMIT unit set to
CLASSIC CHANNEL 4
Remote and Local selected