Using FJ Triggers with Canon RT Speedlites: Setup and TipsUpdated 18 days ago

Overview

If you’re diving into the FJ system with Canon RT speedlites like the Canon EL-1, proper connection is key. This ensures smooth wireless triggering and control, especially in busy environments where wireless signals might clash.

Key Features of the FJ System with Canon RT Speedlites

Operating Modes

• Canon RT Mode: Tailored for Canon cameras and RT speedlites. While it maintains compatibility, it may struggle in crowded wireless spots where many wireless devices can be found.
• FJ Wireless Mode (TTL-ALL): If you're in a high-traffic area, this mode really shines, reducing interference and ensuring effective communication between devices.

Power Adjustment

The Canon RT system allows a minimum power adjustment of 1/128, aligning with power level 2 on the FJ400 strobe. This is essential for consistent output when using RT speedlites.

Setting Up Your FJ System

Start Fresh

Before you kick things off, reset your FJ triggering device to factory defaults. This small step can save you from future headaches, especially if you’re just starting out.

Match Channels and IDs:

Ensure your FJ strobes and speedlites are set to the same channel and RT ID as the trigger. Canon RT IDs run from 0000 to 1000; match the first two digits (0000 to 0099).

Configuring Your FJ Units:

• FJ200: Go to the settings menu and enable RT/ID.
• FJ80 & FJ80II: Activate Canon-RT/ID and input the matching ID number.
• FJ400: Select TTL/ALL in Menu 1, then long-press RT/ID in Menu 2 to set your RT ID.
• FJ Trigger: Double-check that the RT-ID in the settings menu aligns with your strobes.

Confirming Your Connection:

After making these adjustments, look for green indicators: "Canon-RT" on the trigger and "ID/RT" on the strobe. If the green light doesn’t appear after a few seconds, press the ID/RT button on the strobe to refresh the connection.

Connecting Your Canon RT Speedlites

Activate RT Mode:

Turn on the speedlite and press the double arrow link button until you see ETTL or M, along with "slave" and the wireless symbol (not the lightning bolt).

Assigning Groups:

Use the “Gr” button to assign the speedlite to a group (A-E). This keeps everything organized, especially if you’re working with multiple light sources.

Example Setup:

Let’s say you’re using an FJ400 with a Canon RT speedlite. Here’s a quick rundown:

1. Set the FJ400 to Channel 1 and RT ID 01.
2. On the speedlite, set the channel to 1 and the RT ID to 0001.
3. Assign the speedlite to Group A, ensuring it’s different from the FJ400’s group.
4. In MENU 3 of the speedlite, ensure the channel matches the FJ strobe and trigger. Set the RT/ID to match the FJ units, starting with "00" and then the last two digits.
5. The link LED on the speedlite should glow green. If not, cycle the link button and fire a test shot to check the connection.

Limitations and Troubleshooting

Testing Flashes:

Keep in mind that the FJ trigger’s test button might not activate all flashes in Canon RT mode. It’s usually better to use your camera’s shutter for this.

Connectivity Issues:

Connecting
If you have followed the instructions above and the units are not connecting, you are not seeing the "link" icon, power cycle all the units. Users have reported after all the connection settings are confirmed powering all the units off and then on, initiated the connection. 

Losing Connection
Users have reported when their host camera goes to sleep mode, RT connection is lost. Turn any sleep modes or auto-off modes to their longest time value or OFF. 

When changing connection settings, channel or ID, users have reported the connection being lost. Power cycling the units can restore the connection. 

If you encounter wireless connectivity issues, Canon forums can be a great resource for tips from other users. 

• Solved: Re: Canon 600EX II-RT drops link- HELP! - Page 8 - Canon Community.

Disabled Features in RT Mode:

when using Canon RT settings, features like remote toggling of modeling lights and audible beeps are disabled.

Conclusion

For the best results with your Canon RT speedlites, a solid setup and configuration are crucial. Starting with a reset can help prevent issues and improve connectivity. If you run into challenges, don’t hesitate to contact Westcott for help or to tap into online communities for support and solutions.