MINICOM RFS Bright lights

www.bron.ch

Minicom RFS The introduction to the fascination of the broncolor system

Minicom RFS; creative all-rounders with radio triggering and computer control. Minicom is the lightweight compact solution for photographers who already own broncolor equipment or want to move up to the broncolor system in the future. Minicom is available with or without RFS (Radio Frequency System) for remote control and triggering. Its high light output and compact format create new opportunities in the studio and on location. Minicom is compatible with broncolor power packs, so its ideal as a cost-effective additional light (or first purchase) for digital and analogue photography.

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ULTRAMODERN TECHNOLOGY. The new Minicom compact units (registered design) are professional flash units with all of broncolors know-how and ultramodern technology features. The finest components, microprocessor control, and careful assembly guarantee the ultimate in functionality and reliability even under difficult conditions an investment that starts paying off right away.

IN THE STUDIO AND ON LOCATION. With two output levels (300 and 600 J), Minicom offers sufficient reserves for optimum lighting in many situations. Compatibility with broncolors high-performance power packs makes it the ideal complement to your existing equipment. Minicoms light weight and compact dimensions are much appreciated on the road. Minicom units can be operated at different mains voltages. For outdoor shooting, they can be powered from a car battery or generator (230 V version).

INFRARED OR RADIOFREQUENCY WIRELESS REMOTE TRIGGERING. Using the built-in infrared receiver, all Minicom units can be triggered wirelessly using a broncolor infrared transmitter. Minicom can also be triggered wirelessly via the built-in IR receiver using a broncolor FCM 2. With RFS technology the Minicom RFS can be triggered from distances up to 50 m (164 ft) using the RFS radio trigger on the camera.

|| HELI HINKEL, MODEL EMMA P. (MODELWERK)

transmitter or a computer. Eight digital radio channels can be selected, ensuring that even in large studios, the signal will be reliably transmitted and will not inadvertently trigger other flash units. Minicom RFS units have a built-in RFS interface. Now you can enter lighting corrections directly on screen: simply load the appropriate software and connect the RFS transceiver to an USB port. Four computer memory locations RADIO CONTROL FROM YOUR MACINTOSH OR PC. In the Minicom RFS (Radio Frequency System) version, every function of the compact unit can be controled by radio from the RFS
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COMPACT AND COMPATIBLE. Minicom compact units are compatible with most current broncolor power packs and light shapers. Attachments can be quickly mounted and removed using the patented bayonet with release button. Especially when rectangular reflectors and barn doors are used for light control, 360-degree rotation capability is a great advantage. All in all, Minicom is a compact, easily transportable addition to existing broncolor configurations, and ideal as an initial purchase for newcomers to the profession.

are available for storing lighting situations.

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Compact and flexible. Despite its compact design, Minicom is a big light but small enough to take with you anywhere. It has enough power to provide perfect illumination for many jobs: in the studio and on location, for professional portraits and stills, for advertising and fashion, and for digital or analogue photography.

SHORT CHARGING TIMES. At 0.3 0.9 s for Minicom 40 and 0.4 1.4 s for Minicom 80 (from 200-240 V mains power), the new compact units can deliver quick flash sequences even at full energy. To eliminate exposure variations, acoustic and optical ready signals are given when the charge reaches exactly 100%. The acoustic ready signal can be switched off as required, or replaced by a dim or boost function.

SHORT FLASH DURATIONS. Short flash durations are an absolute necessity for uniform exposure. Total flash duration t 0.1 is 1/900 s for Minicom 40, 1/420 s for Minicom 80. The effective flash duration t0.5 is three times shorter still: 1/2500 s for Minicom 40 and 1/1500 s for Minicom 80.

HIGH POWER. Minicoms power can be adjusted over a 4-stop range in whole-stop and 1/10-stop increments. The adjustment range can optionally be expanded to a total of 5 stops. Energy is discharged internally when power is reduced; that decreases stress on the flash tube and ensures that the selected amount of light is always available. Flash voltage is stabilised to 1.5% and guarantees precisely repeatable exposures.

MAINS VOLTAGE. Photographers who travel a lot will appreciate the mains voltage selector which adjusts automatically to local line voltages. It works anywhere in the world, from 100 V to 240 V, even at different

mains voltage range (200-240 V or 120 V). Charging times will be longer if the unit is operated at the alternative mains voltage range. In addition, operating the unit at 100 V will result in a reduction of maximum flash energy.

illuminated dustproof LCD display and silicone keys are easy to read even in dim light. A new feature is the ability to adjust photocell sensitivity. Minicom has a ready buzzer which may be switched off. DEPENDABLE OPERATION. Calibrated flash energy output control means that exposures can be repeated at any time under identical lighting conditions. A cooling fan and temperature monitoring function prevent failures due to overheating. Colour temperature can easily be modified with mechanically secured plug-in flash tubes and a plug-in protecting glass (with or without UV coating). with a stop lever (M8 clamping lever with a steel thread insert for optimum braking effect) for stand mounting. The memory function saves data inputs at shutdown or in the event of a power failure.
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There is a built-in pan/tilt head

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frequencies. The modelling light must be adjusted to the appropriate mains voltage. An acoustic alarm sounds if the mains voltage changes. To prevent overloading on poor-quality mains systems, the unit can be switched to slow charging. The technical data for each Minicom is optimised for a specific

EASY TO USE. The clearly organised control panel displays every setting at a glance: selected power level, modelling light mode, ready status of photocell and IR receiver (radio receiver also in RFS version). Large LEDs indicate the various additional functions (series of up to 50 flashes, dim or boost function, acoustic ready signal, slow charging). The

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Controls and displays 1. 2. Photocell on/off IR-receiver and/or RFS-Interface on/off Umbrella holder Mains switch on/off Modelling light on/off Sync socket (when required, usable as connection socket for computer link) Sync socket Test release, ready display green Connection socket for mains cable Fuse Auxiliary functions (aux) Operating mode modelling light Flash sequence Charging dimmer Buzzer Slow charge Appliance address (for Minicom 40 RFS / Minicom 80 RFS) Digital flash energy display Energy control up/down IR-receiver and photocell

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3. 4. 5.

2 17 3 4 5 6.1 6.2 7 10

6.1 6.2 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.

11 12 13 14 15 16

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9 8
Front panel for Minicom 40 / 80

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SELECTABLE MODELLING LIGHT. Six different modes can be selected for the 300 W modelling light, including six different modelling light proportionality levels as well as full-power and energy-saving modes. Flash monitoring is both visual and acoustic using a modelling light dim or boost function during charging, as well as a buzzer. The dim function causes the modelling light to dim automatically while charging; this not only confirms that charging is occurring but also reduces the load on poorquality mains systems. When taking flash pictures without the modelling light, the new boost function switches the modelling light to full power while charging. This provides confirmation that all the units have triggered, and at the same time allows a quick check of

framing and focus. The modelling light can also be set proportionally to other broncolor compact units and power packs. In proportional mode, the modelling light matches the selected flash output. The procedure is simple: set the same proportionality number on every unit, and the modelling light is always automatically proportional (WYSIWYG = what you see is what you get).

EASIER TO CARRY. With a weight of only 3,0 kg (6,6 lbs) (Minicom 40) or 3,3 kg (7,3 lbs) (Minicom 80) and compact dimensions, Minicom units can be taken wherever you need them without weighing you down. The flash tube, modelling light and protecting glass are effectively protected by a transport hood.

|| ANDY EARL

Using Minicom
Compact and expandable. Accessories are an important ingredient in creativity. The range of accessories for the new Minicom is particularly wide, so you can always rely on it for the right light: on location, as an additional studio light or as a first flash system.

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FASHION. With their short charging time and flash duration, as well as wireless triggering, Minicom units are simply perfect for fashion photography and reportage. ON LOCATION. Automatic voltage adaption, batSTILLS AND ADVERTISING. PORTRAITS AND WEDDINGS. Minicom compact units let the portrait photographers creativity run free. Their wide control range allows very subtle light control, and wireless triggering ensures complete freedom of movement. With its high light output, bright modelling light, comprehensive accessories and 360 reflector rotation, Minicom meets all the essential requirements for professional stills and advertising photography. The new Sequence function lets you program the units for up to 50 automatic triggerings, for situations such as multiple exposures when the available light output needs to be increased. tery converter, generator operation capability, a variety of kit, and a robust housing: Minicom is the ideal light for travel and outdoor work. For photojournalists, the separately deactivatable photocell prevents inadvertent triggering by other flashes. The Minicom RFS version can be triggered dependably from as far as 50 m (164 ft) away.

MANY POSSIBILITIES. Because they are compatible with the various series of broncolor units, you can add an extensive range of accessories to your Minicom unit in order to expand your artistic capabilities and creative freedom. Accessories include numerous light shapers, barn doors, two types of softboxes in various sizes, as well as white, silver and transparent umbrellas. There are also honeycombs for spotlight effects, neutral density and CC filters, colour and diffusion filters, spot and projection attachments, a conical snoot and a great deal more. REFLECTORS MOUNT QUICK AS A FLASH. Reflectors can be quickly latched on and removed with a patented bayonet mount. Especially when using rectangular reflectors and barn doors, 360-degree rotation capability is very advantageous. An umbrella mount is built into the unit. Minicom is a complete system of compact units and customised accessories including four different kits that is perfect for portable use and many studio applications. RFS TRANSCEIVER. For wireless remote control of the unit by radio from a PC or Macintosh computer. Interactive function, i.e. manual settings on the unit are automatically updated in the computer. USB connection. Includes software on data medium. RFS TRANSMITTER. Radio transmitter with 10 digitally coded channels for wireless triggering. Distance (outdoors) approx. 30 m (98,4 ft). (Range 300 m) (984 ft). REMOTE CONTROL. via built-in eight-channel RFS (Radio Frequency System) interface for remote control of the unit by radio and via RFS Transceiver from a PC or Macintosh computer. As many as eight units can be controlled on each channel (studio). CEILING MOUNTING INCLUDED. For ceiling mounting, simply install the bracket on the Minicom in the reverse orientation. The front panel is then the right way up and can be easily read, and optimum air circulation is assured. The transmitter has a test button for direct flash triggering from the transmitter. Two additional buttons are used to adjust the output of all radio-controlled flash units directly 1 sync cable and lithium button cell (approx. 5-year service life).
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from the RFS transmitter. Includes

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|| THOMAS BACH

Minicom Kits. The Minicom compact units are available either one-off or in kits. Even outside the studio, the wellequipped complete kits serve as reliable, easily transportable and high-performance light source.

MINICOM EXPERT KIT. The complete setup for demanding jobs in the studio and on location:
|| ANDY EARL

MINICOM TRAVEL KIT. Designed for simpler situations and smaller jobs: 2 Minicom 40 units including flash tubes, modelling lamps, protecting glass and transport hoods, 2 P-Travel reflectors, 1 P-Travel barn door, 1 5 m (6,6 ft) sync cable, 1 case, 1 stand case, 2 stands. MINICOM BASIC KIT. The ideal introduction to the broncolor system: 1 Minicom 80 including flash tube, modelling lamp, safety shield and transport hood, 1 P-Travel reflector, 1 umbrella reflector, 1 white umbrella, 1 5 m (6,6 ft) sync cable, 1 case, 1 stand.

MINICOM RFS KITS. Unlike the standard Minicom Kits, the Minicom RFS Kits additionally include the RFS transmitter (Art. No. 36.130.00). The Minicom Expert RFS Kit does not include the IRX 2 transmitter (Art. No. 36.116.00).
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3 Minicom 80 units including flash tubes, modelling lamps, protecting glass and transport hoods, 2 P-Travel reflectors, 1 P-Travel barn door, 1 umbrella reflector, 1 silver umbrella, 1 Pulsoflex C 60 x 100, I IRX2, 1 5 m (6,6 ft) sync cable, 1 case, 1 stand case, 3 stands. MINICOM CLASSIC KIT. The complete kit for a wide range of jobs: 1 Minicom 80 and 2 Minicom 40 units including flash tubes, modelling lamps, protecting glass and transport hoods, 2 P-Travel reflectors, 1 P-Travel barn door, 1 Pulsoflex C 60 x 100, 1 5 m (6,6 ft) sync cable, 1 case, 1 stand case, 3 stands.

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|| HELI HINKEL, MODELS: LEFT KORINNA (PLACE MODELS), RIGHT VEZA (MEGA MODELS)

Technical Data Minicom / Minicom RFS

Minicom 40 / Minicom 40 RFS Flash energy F-stop at a distance of 2 m (6,6 ft) 100 ISO, reflector P50 // P70 Flash duration t 0.1 (t 0.5) Charging time (for 100 % of selected energy) 300 J (100 V: 250 J) 32 5/10 // 22 5/10 (100 V: 32 2/10 // 22 2/10) 1/900 s (1/2500 s) with mains voltage 110 240 V with mains voltage 100 V: about 20 % longer 230 V / 50 Hz: 120 V / 60 Hz: 100 V / 50 Hz: 0,3 0,9 s 0,3 1,2 s 0,3 1,5 s

Minicom 80 / Minicom 80 RFS 600 J (100 V: 500 J) 45 5/10 // 32 5/10 (100 V: 45 2/10 // 32 2/10) 1/420 s (1/1500 s) with mains voltage 110 240 V with mains voltage 100 V: about 20 % longer 230 V / 50 Hz: 120 V / 60 Hz: 100 V / 50 Hz: 0,4 1,4 s 0,4 1,9 s 0,4 3,0 s

Can be switched to slow charge mode Mains voltage

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Can be switched to slow charge mode

The technical data of the Minicom / Minicom RFS are optimised for a certain mains voltage (200-240 V or 120 V). If the unit is operating on an alternative mains voltage, an extension of the charging time results. If the unit is operating on mains voltage 100 V, the maximum flash energy is reduced to 250 J. Illuminated digital display, LED display as well as dust and scratch-proof, illuminated silicone keyboard over 4 f-stops in 1/10 increments (1:16); can be switched to 5 f-stops (1:32) Halogen max. 300 W Proportional to flash energy as well as full and low settings. Proportionality adjustable to all broncolor flash systems and the various output levels. Manual release button, photocell and infrared receiver (can be switched off), sync cable, FCM 2, FCC, IRX2, IRQ transmitter RFS Visual and audible (can be switched off), signals when 100% of selected energy is reached Visual: Audible: Dim or boost function of the modelling light during charging buzzer

Controls Control range of flash energy (100 V: 13 f-stop less) Modelling light Flash release Flash release Minicom RFS Ready display Flash monitoring Additional functions Remote control Minicom RFS Number of sync sockets Stabilized flash voltage Cooling Standards Power requirements Dimensions (L x W x H) Weight kg

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Sequences (serial flashes) up to 50 flashes Sensibility of the photocell can be reduced By means of the 8 channel RFS Interface (Radio Frequency System) for remote control of the unit by radio from servor RFS as well as transceiver RFS from PC or Macintosh computer. Up to 8 units can be controlled per channel (studio). 2 +/- 1,5 % Fan
Printed in Switzerland 0107

EC standard 73/23, UL 122 200240 V / 5060 Hz: 6 A 100120 V / 5060 Hz: 10 A 286 x 154 x 194 mm (11,3 x 6,1 x 7,6) 3,0 (6,6 lbs) 200240 V / 5060 Hz: 6 A 100120 V / 5060 Hz: 10 A 286 x 154 x 194 mm (11,3 x 6,1 x 7,6) 3,3 (7,3 lbs)

Bron Elektronik AG CH-4123 Allschwil / Switzerland www.bron.ch

|| COVER URS RECHER