Lens Mtd, Stick-On, & Other Trigger Cables

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Lens Mounted, Stick-On, & Other Triggers
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BE YOUR OWN 2nd SHOOTER!

Lens Trigger: Why you want this!
Uses, Options, and Scenarios


A(***) Lens Mounted Trigger - Single Switch
LT1001
The Lens Mounted Trigger - Single Switch Base Model (with up to a 3 foot straight cable), ending in a straight mini plug is $75. The 3/4 inch wide elastic is 9 inches long from snap to snap, and an extension is available for $30 to fit around the large lens hood of the big 400 f2.8 lens. A RA (right angle) molded mini plug is also available for an additional $5. The Quick Disconnect can be added into the cable for $55.

This image (left) shows the Lens Mounted Trigger ($75), with the Rigid Backplate ($40), and Heavy Duty Rubber Cable with Oversized Mini Plug ($10). The total for this item, as shown is $75+$40+$10= $125. The cable shown is 15 inches long, and should not be made shorter than 12 inches to prevent extra cable strain. This version is by far the most popular, and is still available while supplies last of the oversized mini plug and rubber jacketed cable.


A1(***) Lens Mounted Trigger - Rigid Backplate
LT1001a
This Lens Mounted Trigger has a Rigid Backplate Reinforcing Layer that is pre-curved slightly, and sandwiched between the elastic layers of the band with epoxy to give the cable - switch junction additional rigidity. It does add some additional thickness to the area, but helps to prevent any relative movement between the cable and the switch, protecting the solder joints of the thin wires. Just as each of these Lens Mounted Triggers are custom made, the Rigid Backplate is also made to fit, and each one will be slightly different than the next. A view of another Lens Mounted Single Trigger with a close up of the Rigid Backplate can be seen in the image left.
The Rigid Backplate Reinforcing Layer is currently still an optional, but greatly suggested item, and will add $40 to the base cost of $75 for any of the Single triggers ($45 for the Dual versions). The RA mini plug also adds an additional $5 over the straight mini plug.

Rigid Backplate Update (5-28-11): No solder joint failures have been reported with any of the Triggers having the Rigid Backplate, so while it will remain an option for now, any Trigger without the Rigid Backplate that does have a solder joint failure will have a minimum repair cost of $55 + S/H.




A2(***) Lens Mounted Trigger:
Single Switch, Closed Band, Removable Cord
LT1002
This Lens Mounted Trigger - Closed Band, Removable Cord works just the same as all the other Lens Mounted Triggers, but instead of having to fuss with the snap, the band is sewn shut to the same sized loop as the others. There is no additional charge to eliminate the snap and make it into a closed band. Adding the sub-mini jack onto the band is $50, and providing the sync cord (coiled shown, straight also available to 6 feet) will add $55 to the base price of $75, for a total of $180 for this item.

The Rigid Backplate Reinforcing Layer is currently still an optional, but greatly suggested item, and will add $40 to the base cost of $75 for any of the Single triggers ($45 for the Dual versions). The RA mini plug also adds an additional $5 over the straight mini plug.


A3(***) Important Notes - All Lens Triggers:
1) Any of the current Lens Mounted Trigger bands can be sewn shut into a single loop instead of using the 2 part snap for no extra cost, just ask! See below to see how this looks in the Lens Mounted Trigger - Closed Band. The coiled (or straight) removable cord does add an additional $55 to the base price of $75 for a total of $130.

2) For reference, the Canon 400mm f2.8 lens is 14.5 inches circumference on the rubber focus ring (fine for the standard 9 inch band), while on the lens hood, the circumference is 21.75 inches (Large Lens Extension needed here).

3) One word of caution, in that the elastic or Velcro is naturally flexible to form around an object, but constant sharp bending right at the wire / switch junction point will break the fine solder joints, which will result in a failure of the switch and a charged repair. The current "refurbishing" cost for these Lens Triggers is $50 plus S/H. The Rigid Backplate Reinforcing Layer (item LT1001a
LT1001a: Lens Mounted Trigger
Rigid Backplate Reinforcing Layer
12 inch Cable, RA Mini Plug) can be added to any of these Lens Triggers for extra rigidity, and life of the product for just $40 added to the base price ($45 for the Dual versions).



B(***) Strap Trigger Cable - Flat Button
LT1003
The Strap Trigger Cable is a specialized version of the Lens Mounted Trigger using a heavy duty Velcro strap that is specially made to stick to itself. The Velcro strap shown in the image is 0.5 inches wide, and has been pre-curved for a specific application to fit on the handlebar of a mountain bike. Since the strap is flexible, it can also be used around a lens, monopod, or other item, just as the elastic band can be (although it doesn't stretch at all). This Strap Trigger Cable is $75 in strap lengths up to 12 inches long, using a cable length up to 3 feet. The tactile switch used is a thinner height than used in the other switch triggers, although any of the Tactile Switches can be used in this application. The Raised Tactile Switch is shown using the Strap Trigger just below.

C(***) Strap Trigger Cable - Raised Button
LT1004
Here is the same Strap Trigger Cable as above, but using the "raised" tactile switch instead of the "flat" tactile switch. Any of the Tactile Switches can be used in this application. This Strap Trigger Cable is $75 in strap lengths up to 12 inches long, using a cable length up to 3 feet. The strap is available in a 1 inch width for a Dual Trigger, and longer cable lengths, coiled or straight, as well as different connectors are also available, just ask!

For a more secure connection of the cable to the tactile switch, the Rigid Backplate is fused to the underside of the switch, and prevents the normal flexing between the cable and the switch. While this does increase the overall thickness of the unit, the fine soldered connections are more secure, and harder to break. This Rigid Backplate will add $40 ($45 for the Dual versions) to the base cost of this (or any) trigger for a total of $115.

Another view (left) of the Rigid Backplate up close. If this Strap Trigger will be used on a small diameter item like handlebars, as opposed to a large lens, please let me know the item diameter, so the curve of the Rigid Backplate can be modified prior to the glue-up and clamping stages.



See: Why You Want This!


D(***) Lens Mounted Trigger - Single w/ Coiled Cord
LT1005
This image shows the Lens Mounted Trigger - Single Switch with the Coiled Cord and Safety Clip. The coiled cord with or without the safety clip adds $55 to the base price of $75, for a total of $130. Add in a RA (right angle) mini plug for $5. The optional Large Lens Extension is $30, but is only needed for the very largest diameter lens hoods. The Quick Disconnect can be added into the cable for $50. The disconnect can be either the mini plug / mini jack set, or the RJ11 / RJ45 coupler as used in the Dual Switch models.

Note: For reference, the Canon 400mm f2.8 lens is 14.5 inches circumference on the rubber focus ring (fine for the standard 9 inch band), while on the lens hood, the circumference is 21.75 inches (Large Lens Extension needed here).

Note: One word of caution, in that the elastic or Velcro is naturally flexible to form around an object, but constant sharp bending right at the wire / switch junction point will break the solder joints, which will result in a failure of the switch and a costly repair. The Rigid Backplate is $40 for the Lens Mounted Trigger, and is strongly suggested for all these flexible trigger devices.




E(***) Lens Trigger - Dual w/ 2 Attached Cables
LT1006
The Lens Mounted Trigger - Dual Switch Band (with up to two 3 foot straight cables), ends in two straight mini plugs, and is $105. The one inch wide elastic is 9 inches long from snap to snap, and an extension is available for $35 to fit around the large lens hood of the big 400 f2.8 lens. RA (right angle) molded mini plugs are also available for an additional $5 (each). The Quick Disconnect RJ11 plug / RJ45 coupler can be added into the cable for $45, or use the Dual Linked Combo Cable (below).


The Dual Linked Combo Cable Extension will neatly extend the Lens Mounted Dual Trigger Cables, and can be made up to 6 feet long. The cost of this item is $90 and includes the disconnect connections.






See: Why You Want This!



F(***) Lens Trigger - Dual w/ Combo Cable
LT1009
Here the Lens Mounted Trigger - Dual Switch Band is shown with the 8 inch short attached cable, ending in a mini plug, with the matching dual ended coiled cord using the mini jack for the disconnnect. The Dual Switch Band is $105, the Dual Coiled Cord is $95, the Safety Clips are $5 each, and the mini plug / jack disconnect is $55.

G(***)
LT1010
Here the Lens Mounted Trigger - Dual Switch Band ($105) ends in the RJ11 plug connecting to a RJ45 coupler. This disconnect set is an additional $55, and the dual ended coiled cord seen here is $95.


H(***) Lens Trigger - Dual w/ Attached Combo Cable
LT1011
The same Lens Mounted Trigger - Dual Switch Band ($105) is shown here having the Dual Ended Coiled Cord ($95) rigidly attached to the Dual Lens Band without using a disconnect, and the optional Safety Clips ($5 each) are also in place. It is also $5 each to use the RA (right angle) mini plugs instead of the straight mini plugs shown.

In the image left, the attached coiled cable is now made using the more flexible rubber jacket, but is still $95. The Lens Mounted Dual Trigger Cable (base unit) is also $105. The precurved Rigid Backplate ($45) has been included to minimize flexing right at the coiled cable, dual switch junction. A Heavy Duty Inline Splice splits the coiled cable into the color coded 2 shorter cables with Safety Clips ($5 each), and ending in the RA Mini Plugs ($5 each).

In another example of how the new Rigid Backplate appears, this image left, also has a rather short coiled cord at the request of the photographer. All the costs for this items are just as above.




I(***) Lens Trigger - Single w/ Short Cable
LT1012
The Lens Mounted Trigger - Single Switch Base Model is $75 with the short cord and the molded plug as seen here. The specialty adapter is a mini inline jack to HH plug and is $25. The same adapter is also available ending in a HH jack (female outlet). The HH (male or female) can be put in place of the the mini plug for just $5. If you are using the "Add-A Tap" setup with zip cords, be sure to specify that you need UNPOLARIZED HH plugs which have both blades of the same width. The Rigid Backplate (not shown) will add $40, and is usually slightly curved when used with the elastic band triggers.

See: Why You Want This!



J(***) Stick-On Trigger
LT1014
The Stick-On Trigger is $75, and can be made in a length up to 3 feet, with either a RA or a straight mini plug. A RA (right angle) molded mini plug is also available for an additional $5. This Velcro pad can mount to the camera body hand grip or anywhere else you can think of with the included Velcro or foam mounting pads. As in the Lens Mounted Trigger - Single Switch with the Coiled Cord and Safety Clip the coiled cord and safety clip adds $45, and the disconnect adds $55.

In this view of the Stick-On Trigger, the Rigid Backplate is sandwiched between the Velcro layers and epoxy fill, and will add $45 to the base cost of $75, for a total of $120.


The Stick-On Trigger shown in the image left has the Rigid Backplate, but it is curved for placement on the grip portion of the camera, and not the flat body recess. Do specify either the flat or curved Rigid Backplate when ordering.


K(***) Stick-on Trigger - Variations
LT1015
Here you can see some variations of the Stick-On Trigger. You can have a Single Switch model that has Dual positions with a custom spacing, or a Dual Switch model that has Dual positions with a custom spacing. The image shows each version ending in a RJ11 plug as the disconnect which is $55, although the mini plug / mini jack can be used instead if desired. The Dual Position Single Switch (2 switches) cna be made for $150, while the Dual Position Dual Switch (4 switches) can be made for $250. As with the other Stick-On Triggers, it is $45 to add the Rigid Backplate to each Stick-On Trigger.


K1(***) Stick-on Trigger - Half & Full Press
[Operates as wired shutter release]
LT1016
While the switch itself in this Custom Stick-On Trigger resembles all the other tactile pushbutton swithes seen in this section, it has actually been re-built into a true 2 position switch to allow an action exactly like the camera shutter button: half press, and then full press. All the normal Lens Triggers, and other triggers will end in a 2 conductor plug, while this 2 position switch ends in a 3 conductor plug (mini, sub-mini, or XLR). This switch can be used as a Special Trigger Input to one of my Custom Pre-Trigger Control Boxes, which are used in the simutaneous firing of multiple cameras (the additional Special 3 Conductor Input Jack (matching the plug) does need to be added to the Control Box to use this 2 position switch properly).


(***) Strap-on Trigger - Half & Full Press
LT1016A
Again, here the tactile switch itself resembles the other single press switches, but this version has been re-built to be a dual press switch to allow for half and full press actions, just like the camera shutter button, or any of the hand controllers (RS-80N3). This version was specifically made to fit the curve of a 30 mm (1 3/16 inch) handle, and has an integrated N3 connector to fit directly to a Canon camera without any additional connection cords. The strap can be cut to fit, or left long, and naturally other camera connectors and pre-curve diameters can be specified upon ordering.


See Additional Uses and Costs (just below) for more details.



K2(***)LT1017
This version of the Stick-On Trigger - Dual Switch will also act as a 2 position switch (wired shutter release) just as the Custom Stick-On Trigger just above to provide the half press action (red button) and then the full press action (black button). Connect this switch to a 3 wire input in one of my Custom Pre-Trigger Control Boxes to take full advantage of the 2 position action of the dual switches.

See Additional Uses and Costs (just below) for more details.



Additional Useage and Costs:
Stick-On or Strap-On Triggers - Dual Switch
Another use for this Stick-On Trigger - Dual Switch is to connect this to a camera plug (to match your specific camera model) or to a Pre-Trigger Cable (through a simple barrel connector) to be able to activate the camera just as if the shutter button was being pressed. This is identical to using a wired shutter release cable, like the Nikon MC-30, or the Canon RS-80N3, but in a much smaller Stick-On format. Think of mounting either of these Stick-On Triggers to an extension pole, to easily activate your camera above a crowded environment. This Custom Stick-On Trigger (Half & Full Press) can be made as a single switch item as shown in the first image and ending in a 3 conductor mini plug for $245, while the Stick-On Trigger - Dual Switch version in the second image can be made for $195. It is $45 additional to add the Rigid Backplate to any of the Stick-On or Strap-On Triggers, single or dual switch versions. Specific Canon N3, Nikon 10 pin, and Nikon MC-DC2 camera plugs are also $45 additional.


(***) Bite Switch Dual Press (Half & Full Press)
Re-Molded Nikon 10 Pin & Aux Turning Collar
LT1035 2-28-12
Here is another version of the Dual Press Switch that will is activated by bite pressure in the concave section of the bite switch. This type of switch has been made for those photogs with a limited manual dexterity, and where many functions are done using biting pressure! As shown, this Dual Press Bite Switch has a Nikon 10 pin plug on the end along with the Aux Turning Collar to make for an easy rotation of the locking ring. If you look close, you can also see that the Nikon 10 pin plug has been Re-Molded so the cable drops straight down the camera front, and not out to the side where it is easy to break off, or get snagged. The Dual Press Bite Switch is $125, the Nikon 10 pin Re-Mold is $135, and the Aux Turning Collar is $25.



L(***) Foot Switch
LT1018 (PJ1073)
The light duty Foot Switch is $85 with the hardwired cable up to 6 feet long, ending in a mini plug. This same light duty switch can have a removable cable, and an attached hot shoe for mounting a Pocket Wizard to become a self contained transmitter unit as seen in the next images (click either to enlarge) and is $155 as in the image on the right, while $185 as in the image on the left. With the hot shoe within the outline of the foot switch, the overall size is smaller and lighter (0.3 lbs), but has a smaller press area for the foot, while putting the hot shoe beyond the outline of the foot switch it is internally weighted (0.7 lbs) to prevent tipping when a PW is attached. In either format, the PW can be mounted right in the hot shoe attached to the foot switch, OR at the end of the cable. A 6 foot mini plug to mini plug cable is available for $15, and other lengths coiled and straight are also available, just ask!


L1(***) Foot Switch w/ Crushproof Cable
LT1021
Here we see the Foot Switch with a Heavy Duty (Crushproof) Cable, which was made as part of the Countdown (Pre)-Trigger Timer Control Box, but is readily available for any momentary foot switch operations. The cable is only 1/4 inch but very flexible, and strong (and now black in color). The Foot Switch and Heavy Duty Cable is $140 for up to an 4 foot cable, ending in a mini plug as shown. A RA (right angle) mini plug adds $5, and longer cable lengths are slightly additional. (As an example, a very common photo booth setup using a 20 foot cable and a RA mini plug, would cost $175.) This is the same foot switch that is used with an even heavier rubber SJ cable as seen in the Pre-Trigger Box for Heavy Duty Cables (PT1001
PT1001: Pre-Trigger Control Box w/
Override Switch for
Heavy Duty SJ Cables and
Weatherproof XLR Connectors), where all the connections are made using weatherproof XLR connectors, and the cost increases to $175 (4 foot cable).


L2(***) Foot Switch w/ 10' Cable & N3 Plug
LT1021B (PT1029A)
In this example of the very popular Heavy Duty Foot Switch, the Heavyweight Crushproof Cable is 10 feet long, and is hardwired to a Canon N3 plug (OEM version). (Any other camera plug can be used, depending on your specific needs.) This length is fine if you are pressing the foot switch and you are near the tripod mounted camera. If you are having one of the subjects in the picture pressing the foot switch themselves, you will likely need at least 20 feet of cable, 30 or more feet to be safe. Don't forget that about 6 feet of cable is being used to go from the camera to the floor, and then leaving enough extra so the cable can be anchored to prevent a pull over. Whenever the Override switch is NOT present, the plug can be wired as if the switch were either ON or OFF (Pre-Trigger ON, or Pre-Trigger OFF). This must be decided on ordering, naturally. The Heavy Duty Foot Switch w/ 10 foot Crushproof Cable is $155. Additional 10 foot increments of cable are $10 each. The Canon N3 Plug (OEM version) is $45, for a total of $200. Adding an Override Switch into the line where the inline splice is visible would add an additional $55. Other plugs or connectors and disconnects can also be used as requested. By special order, the Foot Switch is also available in Blue, Yellow and Orange for an additional $35.

The image here is priced just as the setup above with the 10 foot crushproof cable but with the Nikon MC-DC2 camera plug.

To swap out one for connector for another, as when you decide to change the camera this setup is used for, would be $90 plus the cost of the new connector (usually an additional $45).



2 Position Foot Switch (Half and Full Press):
While a foot switch is USUALLY made as just a single momentary position (and hence the need for the Override switch), this style of foot switch can also be made as a 2 position press, just like the camera shutter button, or any of the hand controllers (Nikon MC-30, Canon RS-80N3, etc). This requires both an additional micro switch inside the foot switch, and a different multi-conductor cable to the camera plug, as well as some additional costs. The additional micro switch for the half press, connections and 3 wire cable will add $145 (based on a 10 foot cable length). Additional 10 foot sections of this 3 wire cable would be $20. Do keep in mind, that the foot is just not as sensitive as the hand, which is why this is not that common a setup. If this is really what you want, ask!

Update 4-5-13: It seems that for some Nikon cameras with Live View (D5000), and most likely Canon cameras as well, this 3 wire, dual press setup is needed to be able to use a Foot Switch Setup, especially if the image is to be seen on the LCD or HDMI output device. Upon ordering, I can send you a test cable to be sure if a single press foot switch will work for your camera, or if you will need a dual press (2 position) foot switch (conditions apply).

Very Common Order (2 position switch, 20 feet cable):
1) HD Foot Switch 10 ft Crushproof cable------$155
2) OEM camera plug--------------------------------$45
3) 2 Position microswitch upgrade--------------$145
4) Addl 10 ft Crushproof cable (3 wire)----------$20
Sub-total-------------------------------------------$365

If you want the option of shooting with Pre-Trigger ON (faster shooting, no delay, pre-set focus), then add the Inline Override Switch as shown for $55 additional.


Here is the same Foot Switch, but now with 20 feet of the Crushproof Cable, which is a better length for most photobooth type of setups. Also included is the Pre-Trigger Override Switch in place of the Inline Splice. Notice that as requested for this specific photog, there are 2 camera ends connected, one is the Canon N3, and the other is the Sub-Mini plug, so either style of camera can be used, one at a time. There are no isolation circuits included, so the different cameras can not easily be used at the same time, unlike as seen in the Pre-Trigger Control Box units.



Here is the same Foot Switch, but now with 30 feet of the Crushproof Cable, which will give you that extra distance for the larger group shots for most photobooth type of setups. Also included is the new version of the Pre-Trigger Override Switch in place of the Inline Splice. The new wiring scheme works better with many of the new cameras having the live view screen. The orange color of the foot switch (yellow or blue is also available) makes it easy for everyone to see where the foot switch is.


This same Foot Switch is also available in an Extra Heavy Duty Metal version (black only) for an additional $55, and while the normal Foot Switch alone weighs in at 3.5 oz, the metal version is a heafty 2.5 pounds.

L3(***) Foot Switch w/ Built In Pre-Trigger Module
LT1021A (PT1029)
The Heavy Duty Foot Switch with a Standard Weight Cable attached (as in the image left), is available for $130. In the image shown, the cable ends in the mini jack (so as to accept any optional camera specific cable ending in the normal 3 conductor mini plug), but also has an optional Pre-Trigger Override Switch for triggering a single remote camera, while still being able to set the Pre-Trigger status to ON or OFF. This setup can also be hardwired to a specific camera plug as needed, for an additional cost, naturally. Normally you would have the Pre-Trigger Cable as an extra device on the cable end, or as part of he Control Box. Adding the Pre-Trigger Override Switch to this Foot Switch is a $95 additional cost. The camera specific cable shown (Canon N3) is a $105 additional cost, and is listed as item PT1005.

M(***) Foot Switch - Burst Mode Issues
Putting a PW in the hot shoe of any of these Foot Switches will indeed trigger another PW as a receiver in one shot mode, but it seems that to achieve true burst mode, either the PW MultiMax needs to be connected through the "Camera / Port 1", or a special mod needs to be done to the PW to make the foot contacts act properly. (Ask me for details.)

More details, explanations, and FAQ's: Burst Mode Issues



N(***) Foot Switch - Comparison
LT1022
Here is a comparison of the 3 different Single Foot Switches that are available with the above mods. The Light Duty is priced above, while the Rear Hinge Heavy Duty Switches (left and middle) add $25 to the price shown.

See: Why You Want This!



O(***) Twin Footswitch
LT1023
This Twin FootSwitch with Hot Shoes and Dual Detachable Cable (click either image to enlarge in a separate window) is a heavy duty solid unit. The Low Profile Hot Shoes can each hold and trigger a radio transmitter, and the 4 conductor mini jack allows the transmitters to be located at the end of the included Dual Cable. Each switch alone is much more robust than the light duty foot switches above, and the twin switch unit weighs a full 3.5 lbs, while the light duty single switch weighs in at only 0.3 lbs. The Aquiline Twin HD Metal FootSwitch is available for $285. The single jack with the 4 conductor cable, and the hot shoes are no longer available or included in this pricing, but instead a 3 conductor mini jack and Dual Cable is an available option and will add $155 to the base cost. A pair of crushproof cables is also available, ending in the mini jack (or other connector as needed), and would add $95 to the base cost of the FootSwitch.

For more flexibility in use, use the Dual Linked Combo Cable Extension. This cable will neatly extend the Lens Mounted Dual Trigger Cables, or these dual jack footswitch models and can be made up to 6 feet long. It is an additional $45 to add each mini jack so that separate cables can be use as opposed to a combo cable. The cost of this extension cable is $90 in addition to the Twin Footswitch and primary cable.


This is the newer style of Twin FootSwitch, and while it is also made of metal, and about the same weight or the older style (above), the switches are a slightly lower profile, and therefore easier to press. Two Hot Shoes are included for the same price of $285. Adding each mini jack (as shown) is $45. The Coiled Combo Cable (just below), with color-coded RA mini plugs is $125, although 2 separate single cables can also be used instead of the Combo Cable, one per mini jack.


The Twin FootSwitch can be wired either for independant or interlocking operation (default is independant; interlocking will only allow the first switch pressed to be active and fire the transmitter, even if both foot switches are depressed). For those who really want everything, the addition of a small slide switch into the circuit will allow either mode of operation to be selected. To have the slide switch to allow for both modes of operation will add an additional $45. The additional switch can also be set so that the press of either foot switch will operate both hot shoes.

Other switch styles are available, and images will be posted soon.


P(***) Dual FootSwitch - Treadle Style
LT1026
The Dual FootSwitch - Treadle Style (click either image to enlarge) is also a heavy duty dual switch unit that operates 2 long life microswitches by pressing either the left or right side of the single 4 inch wide cast aluminum pedal. Only one switch will operate at a time (independant control is not available with this switch). With the hot shoes in place, this switch weighs a hearty 1.5 lbs, and has a heavy non-skid rubber bottom. As shown above with the 2 hot shoes, this item is $250. A hardwired dual cable is available for $90, and this cable can be made detachable for just $65 more.


Q(***) Manual Tripper on Coiled or Straight Cable
LT1027 (SC1040)
This Manual Tripper on a 6 foot Coiled Cable Ending in a Mini Plug is $85. A Safety Clip can be put on the cable end near the mini plug for just $5. The image also shows 2 optional adapters: Mini Jack to HH Male, and Mini Jack to HH Female. Each adapter is $45, and is usually best to be made as a short 6 inch cable instead of a rigid adapter for the same price. The same Manual Tripper is also available ending in a HH outlet (male or female) which can be put in place instead of the the mini plug for just $5. If you are using the "Add-A Tap" setup with zip cords, be sure to specify that you need UNPOLARIZED HH plugs which have both blades of the same width. There are many styles of HH plugs, and the availablility changes frequently. If you have a certain style you want or like, be sure to specify, or order enough units for your needs. The plug in the first image is a soft rubber, while in the second image, the plug is a more rigid plastic, and in the third image, the plug is a hard bakelike plastic.




R(***) Manual Tripper Comparison
LT1028 (SC1042)
The Manual Tripper Comparison shows the difference in size of the two types of Manual Trippers now available. Each is priced at $85 with either a 6 foot staight or coiled cord, and will end in a straight mini plug. A short coiled cord, and a RA mini plug are optional for $5 each. A Safety Clip can be put on the cable end near the mini plug for just $5. The Small Manual Tripper has a low force actuator that provides a good tactile feedback, and can be actuated by a vertical press, or a press in almost any other direction as well, while the Large Manual Tripper is a silent non-tactile switch that is acutated in a vertical direction only. The length and diameter of the Small Manual Tripper lends itself to being taped to almost anything, while the Large Manual Tripper is easier to hand hold.

The Small Manual Tripper actuator shown is off white in color, 3/16 inch high and is still available. Also available are 2 other actuators for the Small Manual Tripper: a black actuator (1/4 inch high), or a brown actuator (3/8 inch high).


Here is another set of Manual Trippers (Metal Housing). Each of these Manual Trippers are 0.75 inch in diameter and are fine if you are not holding anything else. A cord ending in the mini plug is included for $95.




Zip cord, HH plugs, and "Add-A-Taps" have always been a popular and easy way to make a modular connection to fire a camera directly, or a radio transmitter. Zip cord is readily available at just about any hardware store, and the Add-A-Taps will just snap in place to make a secure connection. Care must me taken to not insert the HH male plugs into a 120 volt outlet, naturally. Wrapping the connection completely with gaffers tape after the HH male plug is inserted into the Add-A-Tap will help to make the connection extra secure, and also make it less likely that someone else might accidently insert the HH male plug into a live outlet. The camera end can be wired as Pre-Trigger ON or OFF, depending on your needs. The Manual Tripper shown is $95, while the camera end (N3 plug) is $65 using the generic N3 connector, or $110 using the OEM version of the N3 connector as shown. These camera Pre-Trigger Cables are also know by the older name of "Motor Drive Cables" (PT1010) Each "Add-A-Tap" is $5.


See: Why You Want This!



S(***) Manual Tripper in Vinyl Hand Grip
LT1029 (SC1043)
This image shows the Manual Tripper Set into a Vinyl Hand Grip. It is $95 as shown with a molded mini plug on a 6 foot cable. Other styles of switches, grips, connectors, and cables are available as needed. The vinyl hand grip is hollow and was originally made to fit on the control stick of an ultra-light plane, so the pilot could take pictures without letting go of the control stick. Different diameters are available to fit over different size tubes, or the vinyl grip can be just hand held just as it is.


T(***) Manual Tripper in a Plastic Box
LT1030 (SC1044)
Here is the Manual Tripper Set into a Plastic Box. It is $90 as shown with the 6 foot cord and molded straight mini plug, although other switch styles, and box sizes are available. The box is supplied with heavy duty Velcro for mounting, and the cable length and exit position, as well as the switch position can be customized.



U(***) Dual Head Wired Remote: Canon / Nikon
LT1031 (7-26-10)
Add a second camera cable into any wired controller (timer or manual) and you can control 2 cameras at the same time as in these images, top, and bottom. These images show Canon branded controllers, and OEM camera plugs, but this mod can be done for any digital format, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, Leica, etc. Generic or OEM controllers and plugs can be used, but usually identical cameras must be used to prevent feedback and shutter bounce. This mod is $90 to add an additional camera plug into any controller. The controller and additional plug needed are not included in this cost, and can either be sent to me, or I can supply the desired type needed. Canon N3 plugs on a rubber cable are $45, while Nikon 10 pin plugs on the rubber cable are $35, and generic friction fit plugs of either type are $25 on a PVC cable.

If you are trying to connect unmatched cameras, or multiple cameras at greater distances, you should look into the various Pre-Trigger Control Box Setups in the Pre-Trigger Section of this site. All the setups are custom made to order based on your needs with various inputs, outputs, switches, disconnects, and attachment points, and connecting cables. Some are meant for extremely harsh conditions with heavy duty cables and waterproof connections (PT1001
PT1001: Pre-Trigger Control Box w/
Override Switch for
Heavy Duty SJ Cables and
Weatherproof XLR Connectors), while others are meant to be mounted within finger reach of the controls (PT1024
PT1024: Pre-Trigger Control Box
1 x 2 Output Jacks with
Standard 2 Wire and
Special 3 Wire
Trigger Input Jacks and PT1025
PT1025: Pre-Trigger Control Box
1 x 2 w/ Disconnect Switch
Manual Tripper & Under Camera Mounting), and used with standard zip cord cables and run & gun shooting.


By adding a 3 conductor disconnect ($75) into one of the lines for the Dual Head Timer Remote this will allow extensions, a longer camera cord to be used, or even different camera cords to be used with the same basic timer unit. The Camera Delay Module (CP1100
CP1100:
Camera Delay Module
(0.0001 - 9.9999 seconds)) can also be used when inserted into the camera line as a way of syncing the two cameras to within 0.0001 seconds.




Adding a second output cable to the Canon ZR-1000 Remote is also $90. The 3 conductor sub-mini (2.5mm) plug and cable is only $15 on the PVC cable. The existing cable from the ZR-1000 is about 13 inches long, but the second cable can be made any length up to about 3 feet without any change in performance to any measurable degree. While the second output cable is being added, the first cable can be replaced with a longer cable for just an additional $20 if desired.


V(***) Trigger Remote Cable Swap & Conversion
LT1034 (12-20-10)
This Trigger Remote (TC-80N3) originally ended in the N3 connector shown, but the photog just bought a new Canon 60D that used the smaller sub-mini connector (2.5mm). The line into the controller was replaced, so the new sub-mini plug was still a molded plug, and a new sub-mini jack was added onto a short section cut from the original cable. For the occaisonal use of the older N3 based camera, the tail section can be connected. If the N3 based camera is to be used more often than the sub-mini plug version, the new line cord would be better to end in the straight version of the sub-mini plug instead of the RA (right angle) version. in either case, it is $115 to replace the line cord, and add the sub-mini jack to the existing cut cord.


(***) Controller w/ Coiled Cord and Camera Plugs
CP1093
Controller w/ coiled cord: $95
First inine jack to camera: $55
Add'l inline jack to camera: $65
Inline jack w/o controller: $75
Sub-mini jack additional: $15

All OEM N3, MC-DC2, 10 pin: $45 added to total of above

It is also an option to reverse the gender of the connections, that is to put the PLUG on the camera connector side, and to put the JACK on the controller side, adding $65 additional to the above costs. (Each camera end section would then become a Special Pre-Trigger Cable which can be used for the MultiMax or FlexTT5 PW's, as in item PT1005)

Convert your controller (any model) to a coiled cord with the disconnect: $95

Here (image left) is a Canon N3 (OEM version) to Sub Mini Jack Adapter Cable. This item would be priced at $55 (base cable) + $15 (sub-mini jack) + $45 (OEM version) = $115. An adapter like this can convert a specific trigger that has been used for any controller that has the sub-mini plug on the end.

The Safety Clip can be added to the short section if desired. M/F extensions are available in various lengths: 6 ft: $15, 12 ft $20, 25 ft: $25, 50 ft: $45, 100 ft: $55. Add $5 to cut one of these cables to a custom length, or to use a different connector (except PC connectors, which are shown below).


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(***)Lens Trigger: Why you want this!
Use this device to trigger a Pocket Wizard or other radio transmitter while holding another camera. You can fire off pictures with the remote camera while holding your main camera. The top picture shows the Single Switch Band model with an attached 3' straight cable ending in a molded miniphone plug to trigger a Pocket Wizard which will cause the firing of a remote camera without putting down the camera the switch band is mounted to! The red button switch has a good tactile feel, and is easy to locate. Easy on, easy off; easy positioning for either side of lens!


Important Notes:
1) Any of the current Lens Mounted Trigger bands can be sewn shut into a single loop instead of using the 2 part snap as shown in the images, just ask!

2) For reference, the Canon 400mm f2.8 lens is 14.5 inches circumference on the rubber focus ring (fine for the standard 9 inch band), while on the lens hood, the circumference is 21.75 inches (Large Lens Extension needed here).

3) One word of caution, in that the elastic or Velcro is naturally flexible to form around an object, but constant sharp bending right at the wire / switch junction point will break the solder joints, which will result in a failure of the switch and a costly repair.

Most popular / requested options:
1) Replace the 3' straight cable with the 6' coiled cable. The Pocket Wizard can then be placed in a pouch or in a pocket and out of the way. (Only $45 additional to base price for the Single Switch Band, $95 additional to base price for the Dual Switch Band). The Safety clip is most useful to help prevent plug pullout, and relieve the stress and strain on the plug / jack connection. It is not field installable, and must be specified at time of order.

2) Add quick disconnect near elastic switch band. You don't have to fumble to unplug the wire from the Pocket Wizard when putting down your camera. (Only $50 additional to base price for Single Switch Bands, $55 additional for the Dual Switch Bands). The quick release can be place on either the 3' single straight cable, 6' single coiled wire, or 6' double coiled cable. For the Single Switch models, the quick disconnect can either be the RJ11 connector with the RJ45 coupler, or the mini plug / mini jack combination. For the Dual Switch models, a 4 conductor mini plug / mini jack can be used instead of the RJ11 / RJ45 for an additional $5.

Wedding Scenario:Shooting a wedding ceremony, and you are down the aisle using long and wide glass, while your remote setup is mounted on a tripod or clamps near the front to face the bride, overlooking the groom's shoulder (or also in a balcony, as when using the dual switch model). Press the Lens Mounted Trigger Switch to get every closup expression of the bride, while you are taking the distance shots from down the aisle. You never have to lose the field of view from your handheld camera, and both cameras will operate independantly. It does take a bit of practice, but the results are awesome in getting the same expression from the two different angles! Using the coiled cable will allow the Pocket Wizard to be placed in a pouch along with the external battery for the flash, and the quick disconnect will allow you to easily put the camera down without having to unsnap the Switch Band.

Sports Scenario:
Set up a remote behind each goal (i.e. soccer, basketball, etc), and when you are shooting on the sidelines, you can get either goal action by pressing one button or the other on your Lens Mounted Trigger Switch Dual Band. The buttons are color coded, and each has a different feel, although you can put a clear or felt pad on one to help distinguish the difference. The Pocket Wizard can be easily placed in a waist pouch, and using the quick disconnect, you don't have to unsnap the Switch Band to get all unhooked!

E-mail me with questions, or to order and have me make one for you NOW!

First time e-mailing? Please tell me your city, state, and country, and how you got to me if you would like me to answer your question. Thanks for understanding!






Don't forget that you also need a Pre-Trigger Cable to connect the receiver to the camera. Only one S/H charge when both are ordered together (or when included in a flash mod order) !

Pocket Wizard Plus II Users:
...Continuous or burst mode is not supported
...Single shot mode works just fine!
Explanation:
...This is because of the auto-transceiver function of the Plus II design (and only this model), an attempt by PW to make the relay function of the MultiMax model easier to use. The MultiMax model works correctly in burst mode when a Trigger Switch press is applied to port 1, while in the Plus II model, the port 1 jack auto switches to an "output" immediately after a switch press so the auto-relay function can happen more easily. It is this auto switch to output mode of the port 1 that prevents a continuous firing in burst mode. The solution is to only take one picture at a time, or use a MultiMax for the transmitter!


Design Glitch Plus II - Burst Mode Mod
This mod is for Plus II models and will correct this condition!
More Info in FAQ Section
...This explanation, and another by MAC (Pocket Wizard)...

Lens Mounted Trigger Setups:
(Click to see larger image in a separate window)
Wrap single band around shoe to make this a foot actuated trigger!





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