Pocket Wizard AC3 refuses to work in manual

I've just started using AC3 controller with three speedlites.

They behave perfect in ETTL but the controller has no effect over the flash settings in the manual mode. In fact, I can't even switch the flashes off via the controller.

They fire ok, so there is communication, but I can't alter power levels or switch off.

Any thoughts?

I've had the AC3 act werid on me a few times. Try this: Turn your camrea on with it in A mode, take a photo with it in A, then moving it into M mode. That took care of it for me.

m.shalaby wrote in post #13337080
I've had the AC3 act werid on me a few times. Try this: Turn your camrea on with it in A mode, take a photo with it in A, then moving it into M mode. That took care of it for me.

Very weird, I'll give it a go. Thanks

running a pair of AC3, and never noticed this kind of issue
I don't think it could mounted incorrectly
maybe the switch itself is defective

SMP_Homer wrote in post #13337515
running a pair of AC3, and never noticed this kind of issue
I don't think it could mounted incorrectly
maybe the switch itself is defective

Hmmm... if the Mini was defective, it would have to be defective on all three channels. I guess it's possible.

I've been through the software setup, that all looks fine, both Mini and Flexes are set to factory defaults.

This is incredibly frustrating, anybody else got any ideas?

Make sure the firmware is the same version on all your devices... and the latest version. I had this same problem, once I updated the firmware, the problem was fixed.

KevinA wrote in post #13341091
Hmmm... if the Mini was defective, it would have to be defective on all three channels. I guess it's possible.

I've been through the software setup, that all looks fine, both Mini and Flexes are set to factory defaults.

This is incredibly frustrating, anybody else got any ideas?

I meant the switch on the AC3 the 0 M A switch (x3)
maybe those are defective and switching it doesn't do anything but A

SMP_Homer wrote in post #13342401
I meant the switch on the AC3 the 0 M A switch (x3)
maybe those are defective and switching it doesn't do anything but A

I can switch off strobes in ETTL (in any of the channels).

I've emailed PW, be interesting to see how they respond.

Ok, ok, ok... now there are times when we just want to crawl under the table or put a paper bag over our heads (or both).

This is most definitely one of those moments.

I just updated the firmware. After all, it couldn't be as simple as that, could it? I mean, could it????

Humble pie with custard and ice cream please.

Sorry guys. Lesson learnt.

delsol9400 wrote in post #13341328
Make sure the firmware is the same version on all your devices... and the latest version. I had this same problem, once I updated the firmware, the problem was fixed.

Thanks for your help. Damn!

glad it was an easy fix...

KevinA wrote in post #13344490
Ok, ok, ok... now there are times when we just want to crawl under the table or put a paper bag over our heads (or both).

This is most definitely one of those moments.

I just updated the firmware. After all, it couldn't be as simple as that, could it? I mean, could it????

Humble pie with custard and ice cream please.

Sorry guys. Lesson learnt.

Sorry to revive an old thread .... Having the same issues as Kevin.

I've flashed the latest firmware, and also did a factory reset. Using the MANUAL dial to increase or decrease power does not work.... There was an instant that I thought it was working, but I can't be sure. I'm seeing the shutter in the frame .... as if my 1/200 sync speed is too fast when I decrease power output. (5Dmk3). After powering everything off and trying again... it goes back to no response in MANUAL mode.

Stumped ....:o

Answering my own post in case others have the same issue. The FLEX and MINI are NOT fully compatible with the CANON 5Dmk3 using FW 6.150 .... BETA FW 6.153 is necessary.

The AC3 is now playing nice ... I am still testing and playing with this new toy ... but all seems to be working for now.

Was this all resolved? I am having the same issue, the AC3 has no control over my flash output while in manual mode, works fine in ettl. I have reset to factory settings, updated firmware.......nothing​. Is there an issue with the Canon MKIII? Any help is appreciated.

I replied in your other thread (which you can now ignore). FWIW, I always follow PW's procedure on their recommended power-up sequence (top-down). Then I fire one or two "calibration" exposures. My Mini/Flex triggers have proven very reliable with my Nikon systems. Apparently this appears to be a Canon- or model-specific issue with current PocketWizards. Good luck!