Manual mode using a Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2

Whether the ST-E2 should include that functionality can of course be debated. It's at least clear that from a technical point of view, it could include that functionality. It could also be able to control three flash groups, not just two, since the protocol supports it, but it can't.

Hello,

you all seem to be quite knowledgable about the little ST-E2 bugger.

What I am wondering is if it can work as a dumb simple IR optical master for other flash brands — for instance, old Nikon SU-4 slaves that will trigger with just about any flash of any camera ...

And secondly — if I would mount this on an old film camera — let's say EOS 5 or some old medium format FUJI — would it work? Again, just a brainless IR optical master telling the slave just "fire" and nothing else.

Thank you for your kind answers in advance!
All the best,
Rene

Hi, Not easily.

I don't have access to an ST-E2 right now but I remember trying what you suggest.

By default the ST-E2 sends pre-flash commands and these would defeat simple 'fire-now-in-sync' type slave units.

It's probably easier just to use small flash unit set to M with no Proprietary Optical Wireless stuff going on. You can tape on an IR pass filter if you wish the send signal not to be captured.

Thank you for your answer!

Sadly there are drawbacks to such a DIY solution - one is the smouldering of the IR filter or, worse, the Speedlight plastic fresnel.

Other is - the flashes are still bigger. I would still be delighted to find a simple small IR trigger of any brand that can work as a stupid master so to say.

Hi, In years gone by I've miss-used Nikon's SG 3IR gismo in many ways - but it allows for good ventilation! When suitably modified, it can even be used in front of a Canon xD or xxD pop-up flash (there is a micro switch to be defeated).

Yes, lovely gizmo - only if you have a pop-up which I don't ...