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com

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www.orphancameras.com

r
FOREWORD www.orphancameras.com
Thankyou for purchasingthe Nikon Gamera Groups and TTL auto flash availablewith the SB-23
NikonAutofocusSpeedlight
SB-23.We hopethe SB-23will Camera name Group Type of TTL auto flash with the SB-23
make photographya much
biggerpart of your life.Get to F90VN90s. Multi-SensorBalanced Fill-Flash
know your SB-23,but before
F90-series/N90* I Center-WeightedFill-Flash/SpotFill-Flash
F70-series/N70" Standard TTL Flash
using it, be sure to read both
your camerainstructionmanual F4-series Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash
and this manual.Nikoncannot F-801s/N8008s. tl Center-WeightedFill-Flash/SpotFill-Flash
F-801/N8008. Standard TTL Flash
be held resoonsiblefor
malfunctionsresultingfrom use o Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash
F-601/N6006. . Center-WeightedFill-Flash/SpotFill-Flash
of the SB-23 other than as F601M/N6000 ilt
. Standard TTL Flash
specifiedin this manual,or from
use of the SB-23 with a camera F50-Series/N50. tv o Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash
. Center-WeightedFill-Flash
made by a manufacturerother F-401x/N5005.
than-Nikon. F-501/N2020*
F-401s/N4004s. o Standard TTL Flash including
o For ease of explanation,the F-401lN4004. V Programmed TTL Auto Flash
relationshiosbetweenthe F-301/N2000*
SB-23and variousNikon FA
camerasare classifiedinto six FE2 o Standard TTL Flash
groupsat right. FG VI
o Beforeusingthe SB-23, NikonosV*""
determineyour Nikon camera " Sold exclusivelyin the U.S.A.
group in the Camera Group "- Sold exclusivelyin the U.S.A.and Canada.
Table shown at right. *"* OptionalV-Type Sync Cord is necessary.

ATTENTION: The SB-23 will not operate with Nikon cameras other
than those listed above.
2
<
 www.orphancameras.com
FLASH MODES AVAILABLE WITH S8.23
The SB-23 providestwo flash modes,TTL auto
and manual.In TTL auto flash mode, you can
performeitherAutomaticBalancedFill-Flashor
StandardTTL Flash.
WhenusingStandardTTL Flashcontrol,the
Speedlighttends to providethe main subjectwith
moreillumination than needed,resultingin an
unnaturallybrightsubjectwith a dark background.
WithAutomaticBalancedFill-Flash,the flash
output levelis automaticallycompensatedto
createa naturalbalancebetweenthe overall
exposureand the flash-illuminated subject.
Dependingon the combinationof camerayou use
with the SB-23,your meteringsystemand
exposuremode, the followingmay be availableas
AutomaticBalancedFill-Flash:Multi-Sensor
BalancedFill-Flash,Matrix BalancedFill-Flash,.
Center-Weighted Fill-Flashand Spot Fill-Flash.
In manualflash mode,the SB-23 fires at maximum
output.
StandardTTL flash and manualflash mode are
availablewith all of the Nikon cameragroups.
Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash-with
Group I cameras
The camera'sTTL Multi-Sensoranalyzes
brightnessand contrast,automatically
compensatingthe flash output levelto balancethe
flash output with ambientlight.
This combinationensuresa correctexposureeven
in difficultsituations,includingsceneswith a highly
reflectiveobject such as a mirroror white wall, and
sceneswith a very dark background.
Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash-with Group ll,
Group lll and Group lV cameras
This combinationenablesyou to take well-
balancedphotos with a correctexposurefor both
the backgroundand foregroundsubject. When
shootingsceneswith a highlyreflectiveobject or a
very dark background,however,there is a
possibilityof under-or overexposure.
Genter-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-
Flash-with Group l, Group ll, Group lll
and Group lV cameras
Withthis combination,if you are usinga lens
withouta CPU (anylens other than an AF Nikkoror
Al-P-Nikkor),Center-WeightedFill-Flashand Spot
Fill-Flashwill be performedas AutomaticBalanced
Fill-Flashinsteadof Multi-Sensor BalancedFill-
Flashor MatrixBalancedFill-Flash.Flashoutput is
properlycompensatedto producea naturalfill-
flash effect. a
#
 www.orphancameras.com
READ BEFORE
t:*&;
USING
Nikkor lenses Neverfire the flashtoward or nearanyone's
Nikon offers two types of Nikkor lenses- eyes;it may damagetheir retinas.
those with a built-inCPU and those withouta Nikoncannot be responsiblefor
built-inCPU. malfunctionsor other problemsresulting
Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU include: from the use of other manufacturers'flash
. D-type AF lenses units,camerasor accessories,including
. Non-D-typeAF NikkorlensesexceptAF- lensesand externalpower sources.
Nikkor lensesfor F3AF
o Al-P Nikkorlenses
Nikkor lenses without a built-in GPU
o Non-AFAl-S Nikkorlenses
o Nikon SeriesE lenses
o Al-modifiedNikkorlensesand others

For TTL multiple flash photography

TheSB-23canbe usedonlyas a masterflash
unit,notas slaveflashunit.
 www.orphancameras.com
NOMENCLATURE

Flash head Batterychamber

Batterychamberlid
AutofocusassistilluminatorLED
 www.orphancameras.com

Power switch/
Ready-light
flash mode selector

Mountingfoot lock nut

Mountingfoot Hot-shoe contacts

 www.orphancameras.com
CONTENTS
FoREWoRD ...........................2
MANUAL FLASHOPERATION.........
......92
FLASH
MoDES
AVAil-ABLE W|THSB-23......................3-4
CLOSE.UPFLASH PHOTOGRAPHY
READ
BEFoRE
USrNG....... ............................4
NoMENCLATURE
............. .........................5-6
lN TTL AUTO FLASH MODE................30
C0NTENTS... ........7 MISCELLANEOUS.
PREPARATION AUToFoCUS pHoTocRApHy....................
FLASH
ATTACHING IFTHEUNDEREXPOSUREALERT APPEARS
INSIDE
"APERTURE/
sHooTrNGD|STANCE
RANGE LABEL'........................8 VIEWFINDER .......35
INSTALLING
BATTERIES.. .....8.9 EXPOSURE
COMPENSATION ... ....36
ATTACHTNG
FLASH UNtr............ ..........10-11 TRoUBLESH0oTTNG ................... ....37
READY-LIGHT
tND|CATIoNS............... .......12
TTLAUTOFLASHANDMANUALFLASHOPERATION.....13
SHOOTINGIN TTL AUTO FLASH
MODE .14-31
TTLAutoFlash0perationwith GroupI cameras.,..l4-15
TTLAutoFlashOperationwith Groupll cameras...l6-18
TTLAutoFlashOperationwith Grouplll cameras.19-20
TTLAutoFlashOperationwith GrouplV cameras.21-23
TTLAutoFlash0perationwith GroupV cameras..24-27
TTLAutoFlashOperationwith GroupVl cameras28-29
Aperture.
Selecting .................30-31

,A
 www.orphancameras.com
PREPARATION (Forall-groupNikoncameraslistedon page 2.)
ATTACHING DISTANCE
"APERTURE/SHOOTING RANGELABEL'' INSTALLINGBATTERIES
'.?) \lrw) l(@f l@) r(i

The following battery

types can be used with
the SB-23.
o 1.5V AA alkaline-
manganese
. NiCd batteries
. Manganesebatteries
Be sureto followthe "+"
and "-" indicationsinside
Two aperture/shooting distancerangelabelsare provided-one in the batterychamberto
meters,the other in feet. Chooseyour desiredlabel,and attach it to ensurebatteriesare
the Speedlightbody. properlyloaded.
For batteryinformation,
see "ABOUTBATTERIES"
on page40.

I Slide open the battery
I r chamber lid.
www.orphancameras.com
t, Load four batteries into Glose the battery chamber
2
Z. the battery chamber. rJr lid.
o Batterieswith a "+" terminal
exceeding6mm in diameter
cannotbe used.
 www.orphancameras.com

ATTACHINGFLASH UNIT

1 Turn the mounting foot O Slide the mounting foot 2 Tightenthe mounting lock
I r lock nut of the SB-23 Z. lorward into the camera's \Jr nut firmly.
clockwise as far as it accessory shoe as far as
goes. it goes.
.Power switchesof the SB-23
and cameramust be turned off.

10
 www.orphancameras.com

About the SB-23's standby system

Settingthe SB-23's power switch/flashmode Caution:
selectorto TTL or M positionturnson the SB-23. When not usingthe SB-23or when carryingit in
At eitherof thesepositions,the SB-23 a bag, etc., alwaysset the power switch/flash
automatically turns off approx.B0 secondsafter mode selectorto OFF position.
the SB-23 is used to conservebatteryenergy.
To turn the SB-23on again,lightlypressthe
camera'sshutterreleasebutton .

The standbysystemdoes not functionin the

followingcases.
FA,,FE2=When you have selecteda mechanical
shuttersettingof "M250"or "B," or when using
the NikonMotor DriveMD-12.
FG, NikonosV: Whenthe shutterspeeddial is
set to "M90" or B.

11
 www.orphancameras.com
READY.LIGHTINDICATIONS
READY
OC
t$kon
The SB-23'sready-lightlightsup or blinksin the
followingcases.
The ready-light comes on-flash is ready to
fire
With the SB-23'sflash mode selectorat TTL or
M, the ready-lightlightsup to indicatethe flash
is readyto fire.
Flashshootingis possiblewheneverthe ready-
lightlightsup.
Both viewfinder ready-light and SB-23's
ready-light blink for a few seconds after
shooting-light output might be insufficient
With the SB-23 in TTL auto flash mode, if both
the camera'sviewfinderready-light and SB-23's
ready-lightblinkfor a few secondsafter
shooting,the flashhas firedat its maximum
outputand lightmightbe insufficient for correct
12
::::l:::tl l!!:::?./tr
exposure.Check aperture/shooting distance
rangetable on the SB-23 to determinewhether
you were beyondthe indicatedmaximumrange.
Dependingon conditions,choosea wider
aperturefor maximumflash range(if exposure
mode is set at Programmedor Shutter-Priority
Auto, switch to Aperture-PriorityAuto or
Manual), or move closerto the subject.
Notes:
. lf the ready-lighttakes more than 30 sec. to
lightup when usingalkaline-manganese
batteries,replacewith a fresh set.
. With NiCd batteries,if recyclingtime is over 10
seconds,rechargethem.
 www.orphancameras.com
TTL AUTO FLASHAND MANUAL FLASH OPERATION

OFF [.[ TTL

mml
IGHTS8.23

To turn on the SB-23,set the power switch/flash

mode selectorto TTL or M position.For TTL auto
flash,set to TTL;for Manualflash,set to M.

For TTL Auto flash operation see pages 14 to

31.

With Group I cameras see pages 14 to 15.

With Group ll cameras see pages 16 to 18.
With Group lll cameras see pages 19 to 20.
With Group lV cameras see pages 21to 23.
With Group V cameras see pages 24 to 27.
With Group Vl cameras see pages 28to 29.

For Manualflash operation with all catrneras,

see page 32.
SHOOTINGIN TTL AUTOwww.orphancameras.com
FLASH MODE
TTL Auto Flash Operation with Group I cameras (F90X/N90s,
F90-series/N90,
F70-series/N70)
Lens Metering system Exposure mode Type of TTL auto flash
ProgrammedAuto*,
Nikkor lens with a Matrix, Shutter-PriorityAuto and Multi-SensorBalanced
built-inGPU Center-Weighted,
Spot Aperture-PriorityAuto Fill-Flash

Manual StandardTTL Flash

Apedure-Priority
Auto Center-WeightedFill-
Flash/SpotFill-Flash
Other lenses Center-Weighted/Spot
Manual StandardTTL Flash

* ln Programmed Auto exposure and Shutter-Priority Auto modes, always sef fhe SB-23's flash mode to
TTL.At M. the camera's shutter is locked.
 www.orphancameras.com

-r Procedure
r
Irt I Set the SB-23's power switch/flash mode A Lightly press the shutter release button
I r selector to TTL to turn on the SB-23. tr and confirm focus and exposure
indications inside the viewfinder'
n set the camera,s
s et'v
sync rr'vse
mode torv 'v'
normar
rlrs' For viewfinderexposurealerts,see page 35.
Z, ;;;;.'
E, Gonfirm the sB-23's ready-light lights up,
e select aperture.
vr rsrv'
9r then fully depress the shutter release
lJr
button to take a picture'
In Programmedor shutter-priorityAuto
exposuremode, set the lensto its minimum
aperture(largestf-number).
In Aperture-Priority
Auto or Manualexposure
mode, set the apertureso the subjectis
positionedwithinthe flash shootingdistance
range.(Forflash shootingrange,see page
30.)
 www.orphancameras.com

TTL Auto Flash Operation with Group ll cameras (F4-series,

F801s/N8008s,
F801/N8008)
With F4-seriescameras
Lens Metering system Exposure mode Type of TTL auto flash

ProgrammedAuto,
Matrix Auto and
Shutter-Priority MatrixBalancedFill-Flash
Aperture-PriorityAuto

AF Nikkor lenses/ Manual StandardTTL Flash

Al-P type Nikkor lenses/
AF Teleconverter/ ProgrammedAuto,
AF-Nikkor lenses for Auto and
Shutter-Priority Fill-Flash
Center-Weighted
Nikon F3 AFlAl-type Center-Weighted Aperture-PriorityAuto
Nikon and Nikkor
lenses (includingAl-S) Manual StandardTTL Flash

ProgrammedAuto,
Auto and StandardTTL Flash
Shutter-Priority
Aperture-PriorityAuto
Spot
Manual StandardTTL Flash

Matrix/Center- ual
Aperture-Priority/Man StandardTTL Flash
Other lenses Weighted/Spot

16
 www.orphancameras.com

With F-801s/N8008sand F-801/N8008cameras

Lens Metering system Exposure mode Type of TTL auto flash
ProgrammedAuto*1
srruitei-prioiiiv
Autoano Matrix BalancedFill-Flash
Matrix Apedure-Priority
Auto
Manual StandardTTL Flash
Programmed Auto*1
AF Nikkor lenses/ snuitei-prioiiiyAutoano Center-WeightedFill-Flash
Al-P type Nikkor lenses Center-Weighted Aperture-PriorityAuto
Manual StandardTTL Flash
Programmed Auto*1
srruitei-prioiiiy
Autoano Spot-FillFlash
Spot*z Aperture-Priority
Auto
Manual StandardTTL Flash
Center-Weighted Fill-
Other lenses Center-Weighted/ Aperture-Priority Flash/SpotFill-Flash
Spot*z
Manual StandardTTL Flash
ln Programmed Auto exposure mode, always sef fhe SB-23's flash mode to TTL. At M, the camera's
shutter locks.
Spot Metering is only available with the F-801s/N8008s.
 www.orphancameras.com

Procedure for Group ll cameras

I Set the SB-23's power switch/flash mode e Lightly press the shutter release button to
I r selector to TTL to turn on the SB-23. tJr confirm focus and exposure indications
'fls/ffiffi:",,Hl3|Jre
O setectaperture. seepase35.
aterts,
Zt
In Programmedor Shutter-PriorityAuto A Gonfirm the SB-23's ready-light comes on,
exposuremode, set the lensto its minimum Tr then fully depress the shutter release
aperture(largestf-number). button to take a picture.
In Aperture-Priority
Auto or Manualexposure
mode, set the apertureso the subjectis
positionedwithinthe flash shootingdistance
range.(Forflash shootingrange,see page
30.)
 www.orphancameras.com

TTLAuto Flash Operation with Group lll cameras (F601/N6006,F601M/N6000)

Gamera's setting
lndication
Lens Automatic on camera's Type of TTL
Exposure mode Metering system Balanced LGD panel auto flash
Fill-Flash
t-7t
Set Matrix Balanced
(.> Fill-Flash
Matrix
Cancel (.: StandardTTL Flash
AF Nikkor ProgrammedAuto,
lens with Auto,
Shutter-Priority t-7t
ru Center-Weighted
a built-in Aperture-Priority
CPU Auto or Manual Center-Weighted Set lnl Fill-Flash

Cancel :,.1 StandardTTL Flash

E
Set Spot Fill-Flash
Spot
Cancel StandardTTL Flash

Set EI Center-Weighted
Center-Weighted :,.1 Fill-Flash
Other Aperture-PriorityAuto Cancel it StandardTTL Flash
lenses or Manual f-7t
Set ro Spot Fill-Flash
Spot
Cancel StandardTTL Flash

19
 www.orphancameras.com
;, Procedure for Group lll cameras
i Set the SB-23's power switch/flash mode i Lightly press the shutter release button
I r selector to TTL to turn on the SB-23. rtr and confirm focus and exposure
indications inside the viewfinder.
o Make sure that
"'"' normar etrrv
sync '.s
is rer
set v"
on the
alte For viewfinderexposurealerts,see page35.
Z.;;;;;'-

n serect
t\Jr
aperrure. 5. :#t:'Slitlll","ti;3n::Xtrr-Jn"ll,n
release button to take a picture'
In Programmedor shutter-priorityAuto
exposuremode, set the lensto its minimum ',-,

aperture(largestf-number). I :

In Aperture-Priority
Auto or Manualexposure
, mode, set the apertureso the subjectis
positionedwithinthe flash shootingdistance
range.(Forflash shootingrange,see page
30.)

20
 www.orphancameras.com

TTL Auto Flash Operation with Group lV cameras (F50-series/N50,F401x/N5005)

Lens Gamera's exposure mode Type of TTL auto flash

ProgrammedAuto*l

Shutter-Priority
Auto MatrixBalancedFill-Flash
Nikkor lens with a built-in CPU
Aperture-PriorityAuto

Manual
Center-WeightedFill-Flash
Other lenses Manual
"1 With an F\)-series/N5? camera in Silhouette Program, Close-IJp Program or LandscapeProgram , do
not use the flash.

21
 www.orphancameras.com
Procedure for Group lV cameras

I Set the SB-23's power switch/flash mode e Lightly press the shutter release button
I r selector to TTL to turn on the SB-23. tJr confirm focus and exposure
"nd
indications inside the viewfinder.
n Select apefture.
For viewfinderexposurealerts,see page 35.
3t
In Programmedor Shutter-PriorityAuto A Gonfirm the SB-23's ready-light lights up,
exposuremode, set the lensto its minimum Tr then fully depress the shutter release
aperture(largestf-number).Confirmyour button to take a picture.
subjectis withinthe flash shootingdistance
i range.To verify the controlled aperture,see
the table on page 23. For the flash shooting
range,see page31.

ln Aperture-Priority
Auto or Manualexposure
mode, set the apertureso the subjectis
positionedat a point within the flash shooting
distancerange.For flash shootingrange,see
page 30.

22
,;G);a*
 www.orphancameras.com

To verify controlled aperture

With F5O-series/N50cameras: See the table
belowto verifythe controlledaperturewith ISO 100
filmin SIMPLEmode.(lnADVANCEDmode,the
controlledapertureappearsinsidethe viewfinder.)

i# For outdoor subject(s)

on a sunny day t/8

For outdoor subject(s)

on a cloudy day or in shadows f/5.6

For indoor subject(s) f/4

With F-401xlN5005cameras: See the table below

to verifythe controlledaperturewith ISO 100 film.

Shutter speed in
Shooting conditions Controlled aperture Shutter-Priority
Auto exposure
Scene that includes the sun 'f/16 1/125 sec.
For outdoor subject(s) on a sunny day f/8 1/125sec.
For outdoor subject(s)on a cloudy day or in shadows 'f/5.6 1 / 1 2 5s e c .
For indoor subiect(s) f/5.6 1/30 sec.

23
 www.orphancameras.com

TTL Auto Flash Operation with Group V cameras

, With F-501/N2020
and F-301/N2000cameras

Lens Lens aperture Type of TTL

ring Shutter speed dial Exposure mode
auto flash
Minimum PDUAL(for F-501 only) ProgrammedTTL
Nikkor lenses aperture P, PHI
ProgrammedAuto Auto Flash*1
with a built-in CPUI
AF-Nikkor lenses for Apedure-priority
FSAF/Al-type Nikkor Any desired A
auro
and Nikon lenses apedure StandardTTL
(includingAl-S type) Flash
Series E 1/125-1sec.,B*2 Manual

A Aperture-priority
Other lenses Any desired auto StandardTTL
aperture Flash
1/125-1sec.,B*2 Manual
', *7 ln Programmed TTL Auto Flashshooting, flash output is controlled in the same manner in
as Standard
1 ffL Hash, but the controlled aperture is fixed at each ISO film speed.
.2 With the shutter speed sef at 1/250 sec. or faster, the camera automatically
i switches to 1/125 sec. as
I soon as the SB-23 is turned on.
j

24
 www.orphancameras.com

Procedurefor F-501/N2020and F-301/N2000cameras

1 Set the SB-23'spower switch/flashmode A Lightlypressthe shutterreleasebutton
I r selectorto TTLto turn on the SB-23. tJr and confirmfocusand exposure
indications inside the viewfinder.
O Select aperture.
For viewfinderexposurealerts,see page 35.
Lt
il$ For ProgrammedTTL Auto Flash in Gonfirm the SB-23's ready-light comes on,

ffi
n
-!r
ProgrammedAuto exposuremode, set the then fully depress the shutter release
lensto its minimumaperture(largestf- button to take a picture.
number).In ProgrammedTTL Auto flash,the
controlledaperturesare fixed at each ISO film
speed and the shootingdistancerange is
alwaysfrom 0.7m to 3.5m regardlessof the
film speed in use (seetable on page 31).
In Aperture-PriorityAuto or Manualexposure
mode, set the apertureso the subjectis
positionedwithin the flash shootingdistance
range.(Forflash shootingrange,see page
30.)

25
;4".:..+,s*r*i;F; , -. --,- --t--;+.
 www.orphancameras.com

With F-401s/N4004sand F-401lN4004cameras

Gamera's setting (exposure mode)
Lens , Type of TTL auto flash
Aperture Oial I Snutter speed dial I
A ProgrammedAuto ProgrammedTTL Auto
S Flashshooting*s
Nikkor lens 1/60-1sec.*2 Auto
Shutter-Priority
with a built-in
CPU *1 Any desired
A Aperture-PriorityAutc
aperture 1/60 - 1 sec. and B*4 Manual StandardTTL Flash

Other lenses *4 Not usable 1/60 - 1 sec. and B*4 Manual

*7 Sef lensto its minimum aper-ture(targestf-number). To set your desired aperture, use the camera's
aperture dial.
.2 titheshutterspeedr'ssetaf 1/125sec.orfaster,thecameraautomaticallyswitchestol/100sec. as
soon as the SB-23 is turned on.
*S ln Programmed TTL Auto Flashshooting, flash output is controlled in the same manner as in Standard
TTL Flash,but the controlled apertures are fixed at each ISO film speed.
.4 Viewfinder exposureindicator LEDsdo not appear. lJsean external exposure meter, then set the
exposure using the lensaperture ring and shutter speed dial. Ignore the apefture sef on the camera's
aperture dial.

26 i
.|-;:.,..:.
-
.
*Ji*Et . . rj::i:,::..#&
l;i r";',.,,..,,,..
r* www.orphancameras.com
Procedurewith F-4O1s/N4004sand F-401lN4004cameras

if 1 Set the SB-23'spowerswitch/flashmode

I r selectorto TTL.
e Lightlypressthe shutterreleasebuttonto
9r confirmfocusand exposureindications
inside the viewfinder.
6 Select aperture. For viewfinderexposurealerts,see page 35.
ht
For ProgrammedTTL Auto Flashin A Confirm the SB-23's ready-light comes on,
ProgrammedAuto exposuremode or '?r then fully depress the shutter release
Auto exposuremode, set the
Shutter-Priority button to take a picture.
lensto its minimumaperture(largestf-
number).In ProgrammedTTL Auto flash,the
'* shootingdistancerangeis alwaysfrom 0.7m
to 3.5m, regardlessof the film speed in use
(seetableon page31).
In Aperture-Priority
Auto or Manualexposure
mode, set the apertureso the subjectis
positionedwithinthe flashshootingdistance

$
range.(Forflashshootingrange,see page
30.)

27
: .. .- r;**1:r '.e4$c&)d;=
 www.orphancameras.com

TTL Auto Flash Operation with Group Vl cameras (FA, FE2,FG, Nikonos V)
Lens Gamera's exposure mode setting Possible shooting

Aperture-PriorityAuto*1
All Nikon and Nikkor lenses StandardTTL Flash
Manual*2
.1 With an FA camera sef at Programmed Auto or Shutter-PriorityAuto exposure mode, turning on the
SB-23 automaticalty switches the camera to Aperture-Priority Auto. Shutter speed is fixed at 1/250 sec.
With an FE2 camera, the shutter speed is fixed at 1/250 sec.
With an FG camera set af Programmed Auto exposure mode, turning on the SB-23 automatically
switches the camera to Aperture-Priority Auto. Shutter speed is fixed at 1/90 sec.
With a Nikonos V camera, the shutter speed is fixed 1/90 sec.
*2 Mechanical settings (M250, M90 and B) on the camera's shutter speed dial cannot be used with the
sB-23.

:- .,:a;k.e ,l
G
..l*F "w'

www.orphancameras.com
Procedurefor Group Vl cameras

t I Set the SB-23'spower switch/flashmode

I r selectorto TTLto turn on the SB-23.
Set the camera's exposure mode to
Aperture-PriorityAuto or Manual.

[3: A
tr
Check the subject-to-camera distance,
confirm the appropriate aperture from the
table on page 31, then set the aperture
value on the lens aperture ring.
Lightly press the shutter release button to
confirm the focus and exposure
indications inside the viewfinder.
For viewfinderexposurealeds,see page 35.

tr Gonfirm the SB-23's ready-light comes on,

Vr then fully depress the shutter release
button to take a picture.

-;u-*4!*&q- -.&gt
2sj
 www.orphancameras.com

Selecting Aperture
AUTO
RANGE

ln TTL auto flash mode ln manualflash mode

To selecta suitableaperture,follow the verticalline
representing the flashshootingdistancedown to
whereit meetsthe horizontallinefor the film speed
rn use.
Example1: To shoota subject4m (approx.13 ft.)
awaywith an ISO 100 film,selectany aperturefrom
f/2Io f/4.
Example2: lf you selectf/4 with an ISO 100 film,
you can take picturesof subjects0.9 m to 5 m (2.9
'16ft.)
ft. to away.
Usingthe aperture/flash shootingdistancerange
table,read the appropriateshootingdistance.
The aperture/flashshootingdistancerangetable
can serveas a guideto determiningthe proper
aperturein manualflashmode.
Determinethe flashshootingdistance,then follow
the horizontallinefor the film speedin use to
where it meetsthe verlicalline representingthe
f lash shootingdistance.
With ISO 100 film,for example,to shoota subject
5 m (approx.16 ft.) away,the appropriateaperlure
isf/4.

30
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Usingguide number Usable apertures/shooting distance range in

Todeterminethe correctaperture,use the TTL mode
following equation. Unir.m
Unit: n (ft)
g u i d en u m b e r
f/stop = lS0film speed
flash-to-subiectdistance Shooting
1000* 800* 400 200 1 0 0 50 25 distance
range
Seetableto confirmthe guidenumbersfor various 2.8+tlz2 . 8 z 3.6-20(12-65)
filmsoeeds.
Unit: m/ft.
4+tls 4 2,8 z 2.5-14(8.3-46)
5.6+l/s 5 . 6 42.8 2 1.B-10(5.8-32)
lS0filmspeed 25 50 1 0 0 200 400 800
B+1lz B 5.6 4 2.8 2 (4.2-23)
1.3-7.0
Guide
number 10/3314t4620t66 28192401131
5 6t184 11+Ut 11 B 5 . 6 4 2.8 Z (2.9-16)
0.9-5.0
1S+% 1 0 I t 1 a . 5.6 4 2'S 0,7-3
5 {2.1-11}
22+1ls 22 16 '11 B 5 . 6 4 0.6-2.5 Q.0-8.21
22 16 1 1 B 5 . 6 0.6-1.7 (2.0-5.7)
22
't6 1 ' l B 0 . 6 - 1 .(22 . 0 - 4 . 1 )
22 ' t 6 1 1 0.6-09 Q.0-2.8\
* Forcamerasin groupsl, ll, lll
andlV,plus theF-S7l/N2020
andF-301/N2000.
il = ProgrammedTTLAutoFlash informationforF-50'1/
N2020,F-401s/N4004s,F-401/N4004 andF-30i/N2000
cameras.WithF-401s/N4004s or F-401/N4004,
the
usable
filmspeedis lS025to 400.
31
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MANUAL FLASH OPERATION (forall Nikoncamerasroupsr
In manualflash mode. the SB-23 fires at its
maximumlight output regardlessof the flash-to-
subjectdistance.Use manualflash mode when you
cannotobtainan appropriateexposurein TTL auto
mode.

Procedure

a Set the camera's exposure mode to

I r Aperture-PriorityAuto or Manual.
,t Set the SB-23's power switch/flash mode
4r selector to M to turn on the SB-23.

e Select and set the aperture on the lens or

lJr cdm€ra body.
Confirm the appropriateaperture by referring
t o p a g e3 1 .

A Confirm that the SB-23's ready-light

r?r Gom€son, then fully depress the shutter
release button to take a picture.

.i:ni:i3;a
i* CtOSr-uprusu pF|OTOGRAPHY
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lN TTLAUTOFLASHMODE(foral Nikon
camera
sroups)
* Forflashshootingwith a subjectcloserthan 0.6 m, E Determine the aperture using the following
I useoptionalNikonTTL RemoteCord SC-17.(With rJr eeu€rtion,then set the camera's aperture
I theSB-23directlymountedon the camera,light to that value.
f, fromthe SB-23 cannot cover a subjectcloserthan
0.6m.)
f/stop(aperture):#
[
whereA correspondsto the film in use
I . for F4-seriescameraswith a DW-2O/DW-21 accordingto the table below.
lI finder,use NikonTTL RemoteCord SC-24.
lS0film speed 25 50 1 0 0 200 400 800 1000
I
J Procedure A 2.5 3 , 5 5 7.5 1 0
1 Remove the SB-23 from the camera When using ISO 100 film and the flash-to-subject
I r speedlight mount. Connect the SB-23 and
f O
camera with the TTL Remote Cord.
Set the camera's exposure mode to
distanceis 0.5 m, for example,divide5 by 0.5 to
get 10. That meansyou should use an apertureof
f/1Oor smaller(f/1Oor largerf-number).Use the
1t Aperlure-PriorityAuto or Manual. smallestaperturepossible.

e Adjust the SB-23's position so that tight

lJr from the flash head covers the subject.

A Set the SB-23's power switch/flash mode

Tr selector to TTL to turn on the SB-23.

33
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 www.orphancameras.com
MISCELLANEOUS
AUTOFOCUS FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY (with Nikon AF cameras)
The SB-23'sAF assistLED lets you perform Procedure
autofocusflash photographyin dim light or even
total darknesswith a NikonAF camera ni 1 Set the camera's AF mode to single servo
Nikkorlens. "no I I AF'
When ambientlight is insufficientfor autofocus at Gonfirm the SB-23's ready-light comes on.
operation,the AF assist LED automaticallyturns on 1.
to start the operationand add contrast to dark
subject(s),allowingthe camera'sautofocussystem e Lightly press the shutter release button
to functionas though it were daytime. tJr and confirm the in-focus indicator appears
lf ambientlight is sufficientfor autofocus,the AF in the vievvfinder.
assistLEDdoes not light up. o lf the in-focusindicationdoes not appear,
o Autofocus distance range with the AF assist the subjectis beyondthe autofocus
LED: distancerange;focus manuallyon the clear
Approx. 1m (3.3ft.) to 5m (16.4ft.) at 20"Cor mattefield.
68.F. Do not use the autofocuslock function.
o Usable lenses:
With the F-501/N2020:AF Nikkorlensesfrom 35 Fully depress the shutter release button to
4. take a picture.
m m t o 1 0 5m m o lf the SB-23's ready-lightbecomesdarker
With other NikonAF cameras:AF Nikkorlenses
'from24 mm to 105 mm or blinks,replacethe batterieswith a fresh
set.

34
J www.orphancameras.com
lFTHEUNDEREXPOSURE
ALERTAPPEARSINSIDEVIEWFINDER
(withall Nikoncameragroups)
il Backgroundwill be underexposed.To get a correct
exposurefor the background,performslow sync
flashphotography.
Whenperformingslow sync, use a tripod to
preventcamerashake.
With I and lll group cameras
In ProgrammedAuto or Aperture-Priority
Auto
exposuremode, set the camera'ssync mode to
Slow-Sync.
with other cameras
1. Turn off the SB-23.
2. Set the camera'sexposuremode to Shutter-
PriorityAuto or Manual.
3. Set the shutterspeed (andaperturein Manual
exposuremode)so that the backgroundwill be
correctlyexposed.
4. Set the SB-23's power switch/flashmode
selectorto TTL to turn on the SB-23.Checkthe
shootingdistancerange,confirmthat the ready-
light comes on, then fully depressthe shutter
releasebutton to take a shot.
35
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 www.orphancameras.com

EXPOSURECOMPENSATION(with all Nikon camera groups)

To make your picturelighteror darker,use your ----\-
Exposure com-
camera'sexposurecompensationfunction.To ----\
Pensation
-'---value +2 0 -1 -2
makethe picturelighter,use "+" compensation.To Film
f I

----\-
make it darker,use "-" compensation. speed in use
lf your camerahas no exposurecompensation 25 25 50 1 0 0
function: 50 25 50 1 0 0 200
o In StandardTTL Flash,the flash shooting 100 25 50 1 0 0 200 400
distancerangevarieswith the amountof 200 50 1 0 0 200 400 800
exposurecompensation.To confirmthe
400 1 0 0 200 400 800
compensateddistancerange,see the table at
right,then check the film speed on the back of 800/1000 200 400 800
the SB-23. lf you make +1 EV compensationw.ith
ISO 100 film, for example,read the flash shooting
A
t'/- | ' Nof posslb te; shooton manual.
distancerangeat ISO 50 on the aperture/flash
shootingdistancetable and set ISO 50.

36
.
 www.orphancameras.com

(common to all Nikon camera groups)

TROUBLESHOOTING
Trouble Cause Remedy
Batteries
areimproperlyinstalled. Properly
instal
I batteries.
Batteries
areexhausted. Replace
batteries
withfreshones.
Ready-light
doesnotcomeon. Powerswitch/mode selector
is setat
0FFposition. Setto TTLor M position.
SB-23hasautomaticallyturned off presstheshutter
Lightly release
button.
dueto thestandby system.
SB-23firedat itsmaximum outoul Check shootingdistance
and,if
Ready-light
hlinksafter shooting*. butthelightmighthavebeen necessary,movecloserto subject
or
insufficient
fora correct
exposure. selecta wideraperture.
Ready-lighttakesmorethon30 sec.,
to comeon whenusingalkaline- Battery
is exhausted. Replace
batteries
withfreshones.
manganese batteries.
R*ady-lighttakesmorethan 10 sec.to poweris weak.
Battery Recharge
NiCdbatteries.
lightup whenusingNiGdbatteries.
$hutterlockswhenready-light Powerswitch/mode is setat Setpowerswitch/mode
selector selector
to TTL
lightsup. M position
in Programmed
Autoor position,
or selectAperture-Priority
Auto
Shutter-Priority
Autoexposuremode. or Manualexoosure mode.
.ln TTL auto flash mode, the ready-light
blinks before shooting in the following cases.'
1) With V- and Vl-group cameras, when the film speed setting is beyond the usabte range.
2) With Vl-group cameras, when a mechanical shutter speed setting (M250, M90 or B) is se/ecfed.

TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHTCARE
No strong shocks or vibration
Neverdrop the SB-23or allow
strongshocks.
Strongshocksor vibrationmay
affectthe SB-23'sprecision
alignment.
3B
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No disassembly
The flashunit incorporates high-
voltagecircuits-never
disassemble or repairit. lf the
SB-23malfunctions or failsto
work properly,take it
immediately to an authorized
Nikondealeror servicecenter.
Keep the SB-23 away from
water and out of the rain
The SB-23 is not a wateroroof
flash unit-keep it away from
water. lf internalcomponentsare
rusted by water, repairmay not
be oossible.

Gautionsfor cleaning
To removesmudges,wipe with a
soft,dry silicon-treatedor
regularcloth.Neveruse paint
thinner,benzene,acetone,
alcoholor chemicalsolvent
cleaningagents-they might
damagethe plasticparts.
www.orphancameras.com
Cautions before storage
When not usingthe SB-23,
removebatteriesto avoid
damagedue to batteryleakage.
lf leakageoccurs,take the SB-23
to your nearestauthorizedNikon
dealer.
To oreventdeteriorationof the
condenserand prolongthe lifeof
your SB-23, load batteriesand
fire the SB-23 severaltimes once
oer month.
Cautions for storage
Keepthe SB-23 away from high
temperaturesand neverstore in
a damp place.Store in a dry,
well-ventilated
location.
Do not storethe SB-23 together
with naphthalene or camphor;do
not placeit nearequipmentthat
generateselectromagnetic
waves (televisionsets or radios);
and keep it away from extremely
hot placessuch as a car in
summeror in front of a heater).
39
 www.orphancameras.com

ABOUT BATTERIES
Battery properties Cautions for using NiGd batteries
o Batteryperformancedrops as temperature When usingNiCd batteries,in additionto the
decreases,but performancewill returnafter an generalcautionsfor ordinarybatteries,note the
adequateperiodof non-use.Check batteries following:
beforeusing.Batteriesshould be replacedwith a . Operatingability at low temperaturecan be
new set beforethey are completelyexhausted. improvedby using NiCd batteries.
o Turn the SB-23's power/modeselectorswitch to Other battery data will be changed depending on
OFF beforeloadingbatteries.Followthe "+" and batteriesand charging stafus.
"-" indicationsinsidethe batterychamberto o Batteriesmust be chargedusingthe battery
ensurebatteriesare properlyloaded. charger designatedby the battery manufacturer.
. When replacingbatteries,replaceall old batteries
with new ones. Nevermix batterybrandsor
models,or new and old batteries.
lmproper usage may shorten battery life or cause
a /oss of contact.
r Do not disposeof batteriesby burningand never
disassemblebatteries.
r lf you do not intendto use the SB-23 for a long
period,removethe batteriesfrom the SB-23 and
store in a cool, dry place below 20'C(68"F).

40
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SPECIFICATIONS
Electronic Automaticsilicon-controlled Standby system The SB-23 automaticallyturns off
construction rectifierand series circuitry when it is not used for approx.80
Powersource Four 1.5VAA-typealkaline- seconds,and turns on when
manganese,manganeseor NiCd camera'smeterturns on
batteries Ready-light Lightsup when the flash is ready
Numberof flashes and recyclinEtime at manual to fire; blinksfor a few seconds
full light output after shootingwhen the SB-23
fired at its maximumoutput
Number of Recycling
AA-typebatteries flashes(approx.)*time(approx.)* AF assist LED Automaticallyfires LED beam
toward the subjectwhen
Alkaline-manganese 400times 2 sec. performingautofocuswith Nikon
Manganese 100times 5 sec. AF camerain insufficientlight
Nicd 150times 1 . 5s e c . Dimensions Approx.64 x67 x 84 mm
*Forautofocusoperationwiththe AF-assist (Wx H x D) o r 2 . 5x 2 . 6 x 3 . 3 i n .
LED,fewer
(without batteries)
flashesareavailableanda longerrecyclingtimeis required. Weight
Approx.140 g or 4.9 oz.
Accessories provided
Guide number (at ISO 100)
20mor66ft. Soft Case SS-23
Angle of coverage
Horizontal60', vertical45' All performance data are for normal-temperature
operation (20C/68"F).
Usable lens 35 mm or longer
Power switch/ Three positionsare provided- Specifications and design are subject to change
mode selector OFF,TTL for TTL auto flash without notice.
exposurecontrol and M for
manualflash exposurecontrol

'4#,' '.;:1.;;;-;^!,: