Sekonic L-308X-U

Sekonic L-308X-U Flashmate Light Meter User Manual

Model: L-308X-U

1. Prodotto finitoview

The Sekonic L-308X-U Flashmate Light Meter is a portable and versatile device designed for precise light measurement in photography, cinematography, and HD cinematography. It features a sliding lumisphere for incident or reflected light measurement via a 40° reception angle lens. The meter offers a wide metering range from 0 to 19.9 EV at ISO 100, with exposure times from 1/8000 to 60 seconds, and a flash range from f/1.0 to f/90.9 at ISO 100. Its customizable LCD display illuminates automatically in low light conditions (5 EV or darker). The L-308X-U supports Photo, Cine, and HD Cine modes, and includes PC sync terminal and cordless flash measuring options. It is powered by a single AA battery and weighs approximately 3.5 oz, ensuring convenient portability.

Sekonic L-308X-U Flashmate Light Meter with its protective case

Figure 1: The Sekonic L-308X-U Flashmate Light Meter shown with its included protective case. The meter features a clear LCD display and intuitive controls for various light measurement modes.

2. Caratteristiche principali

The L-308X-U is designed with three distinct metering modes to cater to diverse imaging needs:

  • Modalità foto: Provides comprehensive exposure control for still photography. It displays measurement data for both flash and ambient light readings, including ambient EV measurement. This mode supports both Shutter Priority and Aperture Priority for flexible depth-of-field control.
  • HD Cine Mode: A compact solution for cinematographers, ideal for location scouting or quick adjustments on set. Users can select from a range of frame rates and shutter angles, with accurate measurements to within one-tenth of a stop. The inclusion of ISO 850 allows for measurements in native ISOs of many professional cinema cameras.
  • Modalità cinema: Tailored for professional digital cinematography, this mode allows selection of frame rates and shutter angles for precise exposure control with one-tenth stop accuracy. It also offers Lux (lx) and foot-candle (fc) readouts, facilitating quick lighting setup.

3. Impostazione

3.1. Installazione della batteria

The Sekonic L-308X-U requires one AA battery for operation. To install the battery:

  1. Individuare il coperchio del vano batterie sul retro del misuratore.
  2. Far scorrere il coperchio aperto nella direzione indicata dalla freccia.
  3. Insert one AA battery, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as marked inside the compartment.
  4. Chiudere saldamente il coperchio del vano batteria finché non scatta in posizione.

3.2. Accensione iniziale

After battery installation, power on the device:

  1. Press the power button located on the top left of the meter.
  2. The LCD display will light up, showing the current settings (e.g., ISO, shutter speed, aperture).
  3. Adjust the ISO setting by pressing the ISO button and using the up/down arrow buttons on the side to match your camera's ISO.
Davanti view of Sekonic L-308X-U Light Meter showing its LCD display and mode button

Figura 2: Fronte view of the Sekonic L-308X-U, highlighting the LCD display where metering information and settings are shown. The MODE button is visible on the left.

4. Operating the Light Meter

4.1. Selezione di una modalità

Premere il tasto MODALITÀ button on the front of the meter to cycle through Photo, HD Cine, and Cine modes. The selected mode will be indicated on the LCD display.

4.2. Effettuare una misurazione

To take a light reading:

  1. Ensure the lumisphere is in the correct position for incident (extended) or reflected (retracted) light measurement.
  2. Point the lumisphere towards the light source (incident) or the subject (reflected).
  3. Press the large measurement button located on the side of the meter.
  4. The LCD display will show the recommended exposure settings (e.g., aperture and shutter speed).

4.3. Regolazione delle impostazioni

Use the up and down arrow buttons on the side of the meter to adjust various settings such as ISO, shutter speed, or frame rate, depending on the selected mode. The display will update in real-time to reflect the changes.

Sekonic L-308X-U Light Meter being used by a photographer on a set

Figure 3: The Sekonic L-308X-U in a practical setting, demonstrating its use by a photographer to measure light for a subject. Its compact size makes it ideal for on-location work.

5. Manutenzione

5.1. Pulizia

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your light meter:

  • Wipe the exterior of the meter with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Per macchie ostinate, leggermente dampen the cloth with water or a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution. Avoid harsh chemicals.
  • Gently clean the lumisphere and LCD display with a microfiber cloth to prevent scratches.

5.2. Conservazione

When not in use, store the light meter in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It is recommended to use the provided protective case to prevent dust and physical damage.

Sekonic L-308X-U Light Meter partially inserted into its black protective case

Figure 4: The Sekonic L-308X-U being placed into its custom-fit protective case, emphasizing the importance of proper storage for device longevity.

6. Risoluzione Dei Problemi

If you encounter issues with your Sekonic L-308X-U, refer to the table below for common problems and their solutions:

ProblemaPossibile causaSoluzione
Il misuratore non si accende.Batteria scarica o installata in modo errato.Sostituire la batteria AA o assicurarsi che sia inserita con la polarità corretta.
Inaccurate light readings.Dirty lumisphere, incorrect mode selected, or improper metering technique.Clean the lumisphere. Verify the correct Photo, HD Cine, or Cine mode is selected. Ensure the lumisphere is positioned correctly (incident/reflected) and pointed accurately.
Il display LCD è scuro o tremolante.Batteria scarica.Sostituisci la batteria AA.
I pulsanti non rispondono.Problema software temporaneo o batteria scarica.Rimuovere e reinserire la batteria per resettare il dispositivo. Se il problema persiste, sostituire la batteria.

7. Specifiche

CaratteristicaDettaglio
Numero di modelloL-308X-U
Dimensioni del prodotto0.35 x 0.98 x 1.69 pollici
Peso dell'articolo3.52 once
Fonte di alimentazione1 batteria AA (necessaria)
ProduttoreSekonic
ColoreNero
Metering Range (ISO 100)Da 0 a 19.9 EV
Tempi di esposizioneDa 1/8000 a 60 secondi
Flash Range (ISO 100)da f/1.0 a f/90.9
Video Capture Resolution (HD Cine)1080p (supported mode)

8. Garanzia e supporto

Sekonic products are manufactured to high-quality standards and come with a manufacturer's warranty. For detailed information regarding warranty coverage, terms, and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Sekonic websito.

For technical support, service, or additional inquiries, please contact Sekonic customer service or visit their support page. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Official Sekonic Websito: www.sekonic.com

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