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PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon

    • Original: $79.00
    • Save: $23.00
  • Price: $56.00
  • B&H # WIAC3N
  • Mfr# 804-709

Product Highlights

  • Fingertip Power Control
  • 3 Independent Zones of Flash Control
  • 6 Stops of Flash Control in 1/3rd Stops
  • PowerTracking / CLS/i-TTL & Manual
  • Turn Zones On and Off Remotely

All the PocketWizard radios in your system should be using the same firmware version for proper functionality. The AC3 for Nikon is compatible with any firmware version used on the MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 for Nikon.

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When you add the PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon to your on-camera MiniTT1 Transmitter or FlexTT5 Transceiver, you instantly have three zones of flash control. Whether in CLS/i-TTL or Manual mode, you have control over all your flashes from your camera position. Put your flashes wherever you want, without worrying about having to access them during a shoot.

Three clearly labeled dials let you increase or decrease power to three zones of flash in 1/3-stop increments with a range of up to six stops. Three switches allow you to change zones between Manual, Auto (PowerTracking / CLS/i-TTL) or OFF. Best of all, with its intuitive interface, the design is simple to use. When matched with the PowerST4 or AC9 AlienBees Adapter, you can now control Elinchrom RX, White Lightning and AlienBees flashes right from the camera's position.

ControlTL
PocketWizard's new firmware platform taps into the full potential of your camera and flash system enabling an entirely new level of remote flash capability through our proven radio communications. ControlTL firmware is configurable and upgradeable for "future-proof" continuous improvement.
CLS/i-TTL Compatibility
Designed to work seamlessly with Nikon's CLS/i-TTL systems, the AC3 ZoneController removes operating complexity with its easy-to-use design.
Manual Power Control
With three simple dials, you can quickly adjust the power settings for three independent zones in 1/3rd stop increments with a six stop range.
ZoneControl
Control up to three zones of light, each with one or more flashes, right from the camera's position. Set them all on manual, auto, or mix the settings between zones. Need to turn a zone off? Just slide a switch and it's off.
PowerTracking
In Auto Mode, change ISO, aperture, or FEC and the lights automatically adjust their compensating power setting with PocketWizard PowerTracking. Set your AC3 ZoneController to manual and PowerTracking is turned off for absolute manual control. PowerTracking can be customized via the PocketWizard Utility.
Studio Flash Compatibility
When used in conjunction with a PowerST4 Receiver for Elinchrom RX, or a FlexTT5 paired with an AC9 AlienBees Adapter, you have remote power control over Elinchrom RX, AlienBees and White Lightning studio flash. You can also mix these Nikon CLS/i-TTL or any other PocketWizard triggered flash.
Simple Design
The AC3 weighs almost nothing and slips into the top-shoe of your on-camera MiniTT1 or FlexTT5. There are three dials and three switches, one for each zone.
Auto-Manual Switch
This switch allows you to set each zone to either Manual Power Control, Auto (PowerTracking CLS/i-TTL) or OFF. Set it to OFF and that zone will not fire.
Easy to Read Dials
Clearly labeled from +3 to -3 in 1/3 stop increments. In Auto mode, the dials act as flash exposure compensation. In manual mode, +3 on the dial is your flashes maximum power level. Adjust the dial down to control your power in 1/3 stop increments for up to six stops of control.
Compatibility Nikon CLS/i-TTL, Elinchrom RX, AlienBees, White Lightning
Mounting Hot shoe
Adjustments Auto = +/- 3 stops, 1/3 stop increments
Selector switch: Off, Manual, Auto (PowerTracking, CLS/i-TTL)
Status Indicator LED: Green status indicator
Operating Temperature Above 5°F (-15°C) and below 120°F (50°C)
Storage Temperature Above -22°F (-30°C) and below 185°F (85°C)
Power Receives power from MiniTT1 Transmitter or FlexTT5 Pocket Wizard
Dimensions 2 x 1.7 x 0.9" (5 x 4.2 x 2.1 cm)
Weight 0.82 oz (23.25g)
Requirements MiniTT1 Transmitter or FlexTT5 Transceiver with firmware version 2.100

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
PocketWizardAC3 ZoneController for Nikon
 
4.8

(based on 72 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (61)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (8)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (3)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Lightweight (37)
  • Easy to use (31)
  • Reliable (27)
  • Packs small / compresses (19)
  • Attaches securely (8)

Cons

  • Poor quality (4)
  • Flimsy (3)

Best Uses

  • Weddings (27)
  • Family photos (19)
  • Indoors (16)
  • Outdoors (16)
  • Outdoor events / games (13)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Semi-pro photographer (22), Pro photographer (16), Photo enthusiast (14)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (54)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Excellent product

This product does what it advertises and does it well. Now I don't need to worry about line of sight (as I did with my SU800) and about shooting in broad daylight. The ...Read complete review

This product does what it advertises and does it well. Now I don't need to worry about line of sight (as I did with my SU800) and about shooting in broad daylight. The AC3 coupled with the mini tt1/ flex tt5 make for a complete remote solution. I have had no misfires so far - it simply delivers! And at [$] it is a third the price of the SU800. Finally I love the fact that it does not need a battery to operate. Excellent product!

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

simplistic, great, easy, control

I use this product to trigger my nikon speedlights and paul buff a.k.a alienbees studio lights. The only reason I gave it 3stars is becuase it won't allow you to control paul buff einstein down...Read complete review

I use this product to trigger my nikon speedlights and paul buff a.k.a alienbees studio lights. The only reason I gave it 3stars is becuase it won't allow you to control paul buff einstein down all the way to 1/128th power, and if your not paying attention feels like you may break it
Great product ability to trigger studio and speed lights at the same time. no more walking back and forth to change powerlevels on flash can all be achieved from the top of your camera. also gives you the ability to control three sets of light so now you can have a key back and fill light have comeplete ratio control

Not so great: well it seems kinda flimsy feeling when your turning or forget and try to overturn the command dial. It could use another stop on the command dial as it wont let you choose any power level under 1/64th power which the paull buff and nikon speed lights go under to 1/128 power

Reviewed by 72 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-20

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5.0

It is a must have

By bcsteve

from Vancouver, BC

About Me Pro Photographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Attaches Securely
  • Durable
  • Lightweight

Cons

    Best Uses

    • General Use
    • Indoors
    • Low Light
    • Night Time
    • Outdoors
    • Portraits
    • Special Events

    Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

    If you are shooting with multiple Flex TT5's this is a must have. Makes it really easy to adjust all the flashes in the different zones.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Share this review

     
    5.0

    PocketWizard Rules

    By Frank

    from Sarasota, Florida

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Attaches Securely
    • Durable
    • Lightweight

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • General Use
      • Indoors
      • Night Time
      • Outdoors
      • Portraits
      • Special Events

      Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

      The addition of this little device is the icing on the cake when it comes to controlling my remote flashes. No need to keep running back and forth to the remote units, now all I have to do is pick the unit I want to adjust and I am ready to go. Fantastic product, works as advertised - I could not be happier with this or their other products.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      4.0

      Wouldn't leave home without it

      By Zeroplusplus

      from St. Louis, MO

      About Me Pro Photographer

      See all my reviews

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Great wireless range
      • Lighting setup speed
      • Long battery life

      Cons

      • Slight wiggle on TT5

      Best Uses

      • Commercial Photographers
      • Indoors
      • Location Photographers
      • Outdoors
      • Portrait Studios

      Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

      I shoot commercially and primarily on location. Recently I decided to update all my lights and Pocket Wizards to the new AC3/FlexTT5/MC2 system.I find that with the addition of the AC3, I can adjust power levels and lighting ratios much faster. My shoots frequently have 3 lights set at various distances, even lights set outside windows or not within easy reach.Shooting outdoors and working with ever changing lighting conditions, the new AC3/FlexTT5/MC2 system is just a pleasure to work with.3 independent channels is plenty for what I shoot. Now I control all my lights directly from the top of my camera instantly.I removed 1 star for a slight wiggle when the AC3 is attached to the top of the TT5. Pocket Wizard really should have made ONE unit incorporating both AC3 and Flex TT5 into one unit. I would have gladly paid $ for that setup...hint hint!No battery needed for the AC3, it powers from your Flex TT5 battery. Battery life is great, 40 hours of use with Eneloop AA's and battery is still fine.Great new system from PW at a fair price. Highly recommended without reservations for the working pro.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

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      5.0

      Amazing! The PocketWizard got better!!

      By gmn314

      from Bridgewater NJ

      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Attaches Securely
      • Lightweight
      • Powerful

      Cons

      • Flimsy

      Best Uses

      • General Use
      • Indoors
      • Low Light
      • Night Time
      • Outdoors
      • Portraits
      • Special Events

      Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

      Works as advertised. Just watch some of the PocketWizard videos that show you how to use this. This accessory will increase the functionality of your wizards exponentially!!

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      Great Solution

      By Gross

      from Kentucky

      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Attaches Securely
      • Lightweight

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • General Use
        • Indoors
        • Low Light
        • Night Time
        • Outdoors
        • Portraits
        • Special Events

        Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

        This is so much quicker and simpler than using a SB-900 to control flashes.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

         
        5.0

        easy to use

        By the Ders

        from NYC

        About Me Photo Enthusiast

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

          Cons

            Best Uses

              Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

              makes everything so easy. I use a D3S so I can't even adjust an overall level on the camera so this is a huge help.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              Great Control

              By Prince and Pearl

              from New Jersey

              About Me Pro Photographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Attaches Securely
              • Lightweight

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Indoors
                • Outdoors
                • Portraits
                • Special Events

                Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                I utilize the zone controller inside and outside the studio. I love the ease of
                use and controll over my small flashes. It isn't particularly useful with a two
                light setup or less but very convenient when there are eight
                flashes on the set and i need to control them in groups.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                5.0

                Pretty cool

                By GreatWhite

                from Raleigh, NC

                About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Attaches Securely
                • Lightweight

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Flash Photography

                  Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                  I'm using this with the TT5 and MC2's and it works great. It's nice to be able to control 3 separated zones without having to move around. Plus it's pretty lightweight.
                  The only drawback is that you can only set the power down to 1/128 on the Einstein.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Control the light

                  By Ken1227

                  from Baton Rouge

                  About Me Pro Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Attaches Securely
                  • Lightweight

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • General Use

                    Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                    Does what it is suppose to no complaints.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Works Great

                    By TF

                    from Washington

                    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                          Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                          Works as described, prompt shipping.

                          • Was this a gift?:
                          • No

                          Share this review

                           
                          4.0

                          Works well with the Flex TT5 Tranceivers

                          By Vince

                          from Madison, AL

                          About Me Photography Student

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Attaches Securely
                          • Lightweight

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • General Use
                            • Indoors
                            • Low Light
                            • Night Time
                            • Outdoors
                            • Portraits
                            • Special Events

                            Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                            I use the controller to manage multiple flashes. It makes it much easier to control and alleviates the need to have to walk back and forth making adjustments to the flashes.

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                             
                            5.0

                            Expensive, but worth it

                            By MKDJr

                            from Fort Benning, GA

                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Attach Securely
                            • Durable
                            • Easy to Use
                            • Lightweight

                            Cons

                            • Expensive

                            Best Uses

                            • General Use
                            • Indoors
                            • Outdoors
                            • Special Events

                            Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                            Combining the MiniTT1 with the AC3 and FlexTT5 gives you full TTL and manual control of your Nikon lighting, to include FP sync and the ability to adjust power levels from your camera. Easy to use, reliable, this system just works. Expensive, but you won't be disappointed.

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

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                            5.0

                            Mind control in a compact body

                            By Martine

                            from Sacramento, Ca

                            About Me Photography Student

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Attach Securely
                            • Durable
                            • Powerful

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Indoors
                              • Low Light
                              • Night Time
                              • Outdoors

                              Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                              This is one sweet item, I can't believe it's ability to control so many flash minds and needing no batteries. I love it and I have chosen my AC3 over my girlfriend. Don't worry, she said it's okay as she knows that the closer I am to my AC3, the better my pictures of her will turn out.

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

                              Share this review

                               
                              5.0

                              AC3 zone controller

                              By Vangoghz

                              from Chicago, Il.

                              About Me Casual Photographer

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

                              • Work's as advertised

                              Cons

                              • Loose fitting

                              Best Uses

                              • General Use
                              • Indoors
                              • Outdoors
                              • Special Events

                              Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                              Works great with pocket wizard Mini TT1. Shoot, review, change. It's that simple.

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

                              Share this review

                               
                              5.0

                              Amazing tool, speeds up your shoot

                              By Berna

                              from San Ysidro CA

                              About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

                              • Amazing Value
                              • Attach Securely

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                  Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                                  I use this during the wedding's day photoshoot with small strobes. It sure speeds up the setup time and helps to make the light output adjustments very fast without messing with in camera menus, that way you don't loose constant communication with the couple. Worth every penny.

                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                  • No

                                  Share this review

                                   
                                  5.0

                                  Now this is what I call "Control"

                                  By Shutterbug Pat

                                  from White Plains, NY

                                  About Me Pro Photographer

                                  See all my reviews

                                  Verified Buyer

                                  Pros

                                  • Easy To Pack
                                  • Easy to Use
                                  • Lightweight
                                  • Reliable
                                  • Strong Construction

                                  Cons

                                    Best Uses

                                    • Family Photos
                                    • Landscape/Scenery
                                    • Portaiture
                                    • Weddings/Events
                                    • Wildlife Photos

                                    Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                                    How much better can it get? A device that controls the output settings of 3 separate flashes. It is a Godsend when you're shooting solo and time is of the essence. No more fussing with each flash in between shots. Just place it on the Mini TT1 Transmitter and transmitter on camera and you are able to adjust each TT5 Transceiver remotely. Now that's control!

                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                    • No

                                    Share this review

                                     
                                    5.0

                                    This is what I have been looking for!!!

                                    By FatSkeeter

                                    from Miami, FL

                                    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                    Verified Buyer

                                    Pros

                                    • Easy To Pack
                                    • Easy to Use
                                    • Lightweight
                                    • Perfect
                                    • Reliable

                                    Cons

                                      Best Uses

                                      • Family Photos
                                      • Landscape/Scenery
                                      • Travel
                                      • Weddings/Events
                                      • Wildlife Photos

                                      Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                                      This unit on my camera and two others out on strobes gives me the range and the flexibility to place things were i need to. Do not have to worry about line of sight. These can be used outside all day long!

                                      The computer program that you use when you first recieve the unit(s) is user freindly and easy to use. There are lots of options to set and things to reserach and try out. Although the DEFAULT settings is all that i used and things work great.

                                      People may talk about the DURABILITY of this unit or lack of MASS or WEIGHT. Now-a-days anythign dealing with radio transmission waves doesnt have to be heavy or bulky. These are perfect weight and size for me.

                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                      • No

                                      Share this review

                                       
                                      5.0

                                      This is what I have been lookign for!!!

                                      By FatSkeeter

                                      from Miami, FL

                                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                      Verified Buyer

                                      Pros

                                      • Easy To Pack
                                      • Easy to Use
                                      • Lightweight
                                      • Perfect
                                      • Reliable

                                      Cons

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Family Photos
                                        • Weddings/Events
                                        • Wildlife Photos

                                        Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                                        go to PocketWizard website to find out more about this zone controller. It is really as easy as they portray it to be in the videos.

                                        No more screwing around with the Nikon on board flash levels on the camera and/or flash. No more wondering if you need commander modes, slave modes, zone assignement. This unit and the FlexTT5 takes care of it all. Make simple little adjsutments on the fly when needed.

                                        People complain about the construction, or weight of this unit. Anything dealing with radio waves now a days doesnt have to be bulky or heavy. It is acceptable to me and doesnt matter much to me. I do not need anything ELSE weighing down my camera as a whole UNIT.

                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                        • No

                                        Share this review

                                         
                                        5.0

                                        Excellent product

                                        By Khen

                                        from fresno, ca

                                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Easy To Pack
                                        • Easy to Use
                                        • Lightweight
                                        • Reliable
                                        • Strong Construction

                                        Cons

                                          Best Uses

                                          • Family Photos
                                          • Travel
                                          • Weddings/Events

                                          Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                                          I use the AC3 zonecontroller on my Nikon D700 with my speedlights.
                                          I used both in and out door, it makes shooting way easier. I don't have to manually adjust my Speedlight output back and forth or move my stands. It's all done through the AC3. Its a
                                          Amazing!

                                          • Was this a gift?:
                                          • No

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                                          5.0

                                          They finally have it right!

                                          By Honeybee Photographer

                                          from Suffolk, VA

                                          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                          Verified Buyer

                                          Pros

                                          • Easy To Pack
                                          • Easy to Use
                                          • Lightweight
                                          • Reliable

                                          Cons

                                            Best Uses

                                            • Family Photos
                                            • Sports/Action
                                            • Travel
                                            • Weddings/Events

                                            Comments about PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon:

                                            I struggled initially with the Pocketwizards when they came out for the Canon system and actually sold them. Because of the prowess of the Nikon flash system, I even moved away from Canon to Nikon and then they came out with their Nikon versions. Initially I was very sceptic but I got to try them out at a show and was convinced to buy them and give them another go. I'm so happy they now provide the reliability that you would expect from wireless radio trigger combined with all the flexibility of the Nikon CLS system.

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                                            • No

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                                            PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Nikon
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