The PocketWizard AC7 RF HardShield increases the operation and working distance of the Canon 580EX Flash Unit and the Canon 580EXII Flash Unit.

• This hardshield gives full access to all flash controls present on the Canon flash units
• The PocketWizard AC7 HardShield F/580EX/EXII protects the FlexTT5 from the RF noise produced by the flash units
• The design of the AC7 HardShield  is apt for the flash units while using umbrellas and softboxes
  

With two ¼-20 mounting points, the AC7 can be mounted both vertically and horizontally on light stands, clamps, brackets or simply handheld.  The back of the flash remains open for complete access to the LCD and flash controls and there is access to the remote power port.  The flash head can be rotated when using the AC7 shield due to a small cut-away in the side of the shield.

When used with an umbrella, the AC7’s lay-flat design places the flash more in the center of the umbrella than usual and produces a symmetrical light shape for incredibly even light dispersion.  Most of the popular diffusers, grids, snoots and reflectors can still be used with the AC7 shield in place.

RF Interference

The body of the AC7 shield is made with a material that effectively blocks RF interference (EMI) from clouding the FlexTT5 antenna.  To block noise traveling through  connections in the hot shoe, an electronic filter has been added to a hot shoe built into the AC7.  Combined, the AC7 shield allows the FlexTT5 to receive transmissions at distances 300 to 500% farther than before and well within the range of most off-camera lighting needs.

For photographers who want to take advantage of the unique capabilities of the MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 Radios when using the Canon 580EX, 580EX II and 430EX flashes, the AC7 shield provides a solution for working ranges that meet or exceed those typical of off-camera flash photography.  The Canon 550EX, 270EX and newer 430EX II emit relatively low EMI and work well with the FlexTT5 without shielding.  PocketWizard is committed to exploring other solutions to maximize the performance of the ControlTL system.

The AC7 RF Shield is now available in the US and Canada and is starting to ship world wide.  Please contact your local retailer for availability.

A connector for Quantum and Canon external battery packs is being developed but is still a few months from delivery.