Camera "lightning" trigger for Pentax camera(s) ?

**jpzk** · 08-06-2017, 08:28 PM

Hi everyone.

My son is using an old K10D (yeah, it still works) and he asked if I could find where to get a camera lightning "trigger" that would work on his K10D.
Not sure at all where to look for, so I thought of posting here first.

Thanks!

**ChipB** · 08-06-2017, 08:57 PM

Did a little searching and came up with this - MIOPS Smart | MIOPS - they specifically list the K10D and state it takes cable C2.

I have NO involvement or interest in the company and have NOT used the product so can't comment on it. I 'think' this is (was?) called Nero Trigger. Good luck.

WaxPhotographic · 08-06-2017, 09:15 PM

Originally posted by jpzk

Hi everyone.

My son is using an old K10D (yeah, it still works) and he asked if I could find where to get a camera lightning "trigger" that would work on his K10D.
Not sure at all where to look for, so I thought of posting here first.

Thanks!

Sold out/between versions, but you may be able to find one of these second-hand: Camera Axe Store ? Dreaming Robots

**Tas** · 08-06-2017, 09:24 PM

Originally posted by jpzk

Hi everyone.

My son is using an old K10D (yeah, it still works) and he asked if I could find where to get a camera lightning "trigger" that would work on his K10D.
Not sure at all where to look for, so I thought of posting here first.

Thanks!

I've got this one: AEO Photo | LS 4.0 ProMT and have used it on my K5. This model is a multi-trigger so it does motion as well as ligthning however there are cheaper options from this manufacturer to consider. You can buy direct from them or via a retailer like B&H. If you buy from AEO just select the cable from the drop down menu, the K10D is listed.

I was able to capture lots of lightning with this unit on the K5, the triggers are most useful when the sun is still up and the 'long exposure guess' is less useful. To provide an example this is a composite of 12 images (after I'd removed about 5 others), there was a lot of lightning activity and the camera was triggered so many times with this storm. the storm was a unique opportunity due to my location and the direction of it's travel, but it is an example of why I can attest to the effectiveness of this product.

I chose this one as the latency from lightning strike to actuating the shutter was less than the other unit I was looking at from here: Home - Strike Finder One of their units would still be a good option, and they too have varying model/price options to consider. Their top of the line unit the Strikefinder touch is a 5 in 1 model and triggers the shutter in less than 1ms. That's better than the 3ms of my AEO and has more functinality to boot.

If you want to go more contemporary, I was really interested in the MIOPS when it came out, details here: MEET MIOPS | MIOPS It looks more contemporary in design and functionality than the unit I have, and it will work with Pentax cameras and can be controlled by a smartphone. Hopefully someone around here has one of these to provide some feedback for you.

A search of B&H using 'lightning trigger' will pop up more options but the three identified above are the unit I have and can say works well, the other option (Ubertronix) I considered and the later model with more contemporary functionality that I would probably choose if I didn't already have a lightning trigger.

Tas

Last edited by Tas; 08-06-2017 at 09:41 PM.

splash_fr · 08-07-2017, 12:50 AM - **1 Like**

I use the pluto trigger, works very goos and is controlled by smartphone app:
Pluto Trigger - Ein vielseitig einsetzbarer Kamera-Auslöser

rgds,
Gerd.

Not a Number · 08-07-2017, 10:48 AM

The K10D cable remote uses the standard 2.5mm 3 pole "stereo" connector that the majority of Pentax cameras use. And most Canon cable releases should be compatible..

**jpzk** · 08-07-2017, 11:25 AM

Originally posted by splash_fr

I use the pluto trigger, works very goos and is controlled by smartphone app:
Pluto Trigger - Ein vielseitig einsetzbarer Kamera-Auslöser

rgds,
Gerd.

Looks like the ap is only iOS ... he/I have a Sasumg (Android).

**jpzk** · 08-07-2017, 07:36 PM

Thanks so much for the pertinent information, folks!
I'll pass the details to my son ... he'll be thrilled that this can work for him.

rawr · 08-07-2017, 08:26 PM

Originally posted by jpzk

Looks like the ap is only iOS ... he/I have a Sasumg (Android).

Middle of the Pluto trigger product page says:

"Android 4.3 with Bluetooth 4.0 LE or later".

Pluto Trigger - A versatile smart camera remote

Interestingly, the Pluto has a passive IR sensor, which allows heat-based triggering ['Detect human or animals' body heat and take photos!'], as well as a light/laser sensor.

Not a Number · 08-08-2017, 12:37 AM

Some of the triggers have motion detectors, sound or laser light activation among other inputs.

**sholtzma** · 08-08-2017, 07:46 AM

Any multi-purpose triggers (light, sound, etc) that work with the K-1?

nikono · 08-08-2017, 08:47 AM

The shutter release for the K-1 works via the 3-contact 2.5mm plug (focus, trigger).
Accessories? PENTAX K-1 | RICOH IMAGING
I think all trigger units that are sold in the market, with the right plug, can work with the camera.
However, imo, a photo of a random streak of light in the sky is only 20% of the thrill. It's a muted thrill like a roller coaster ride that's not screaming. It is the thunder that completes the thrill. And better yet, counting the seconds between the lighting and the thunder tells how far away the lighting is (number of seconds X speed of sound). A still photo lacks all that data.
I'd use video mode to capture lightning and thunder then I can grab any still frame I want from the video.

**jpzk** · 08-08-2017, 11:07 AM

Originally posted by rawr

Middle of the Pluto trigger product page says:

"Android 4.3 with Bluetooth 4.0 LE or later".

Pluto Trigger - A versatile smart camera remote

Interestingly, the Pluto has a passive IR sensor, which allows heat-based triggering ['Detect human or animals' body heat and take photos!'], as well as a light/laser sensor.

Interesting ! Thanks! More stuff to send to my son now.

**lazarustx** · 08-17-2017, 10:05 AM

I have the K1, shouldn't these work with the K1's cable input or the Infrared Input. I looked at the Pluto Trigger, but the K1 isn't listed. However, I'm going to assume that a Pentax wired trigger is universal.

Not a Number · 08-17-2017, 12:02 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by lazarustx

I have the K1, shouldn't these work with the K1's cable input or the Infrared Input. I looked at the Pluto Trigger, but the K1 isn't listed. However, I'm going to assume that a Pentax wired trigger is universal.

From the Pluto website linked above:

Quote:

E3: 645D, 645Z, ist D, ist DL, ist DL2, ist DS, ist DS2, K1, K-3, K3 II, K-30, K-5, K-5 II, K-5 IIs, K-5 IIt, K-50, K-500, K-7, K10 Grand Prix, K100D, K100D Super, K10D, K110D, K200D, K20D, MZ-6, MZ-L, ZX-L

Even though it should actually be K-1. The K-1 uses the common 2.5mm 3 pole (stereo) plug that is used by the majority of Pentax DSLRs that accept wired remotes, Canon and other camera brands.

08-06-2017, 08:28 PM	#1
jpzk Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Québec Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 8,251	Camera "lightning" trigger for Pentax camera(s) ? Hi everyone. My son is using an old K10D (yeah, it still works) and he asked if I could find where to get a camera *lightning* "trigger" that would work on his K10D. Not sure at all where to look for, so I thought of posting here first. Thanks!

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08-06-2017, 08:57 PM	#2
ChipB Site Supporter Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Eau Claire, WI Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,701	Did a little searching and came up with this - MIOPS Smart \| MIOPS - they specifically list the K10D and state it takes cable C2. I have NO involvement or interest in the company and have NOT used the product so can't comment on it. I 'think' this is (was?) called Nero Trigger. Good luck.

08-06-2017, 09:15 PM	#3
WaxPhotographic Junior Member Join Date: Jan 2016 Location: Salt Lake City Posts: 41	Originally posted by jpzk Hi everyone. My son is using an old K10D (yeah, it still works) and he asked if I could find where to get a camera *lightning* "trigger" that would work on his K10D. Not sure at all where to look for, so I thought of posting here first. Thanks! Sold out/between versions, but you may be able to find one of these second-hand: Camera Axe Store ? Dreaming Robots

08-06-2017, 09:24 PM	#4
Tas Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Brisbane, QLD Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,202	Originally posted by jpzk Hi everyone. My son is using an old K10D (yeah, it still works) and he asked if I could find where to get a camera *lightning* "trigger" that would work on his K10D. Not sure at all where to look for, so I thought of posting here first. Thanks! I've got this one: AEO Photo \| LS 4.0 ProMT and have used it on my K5. This model is a multi-trigger so it does motion as well as ligthning however there are cheaper options from this manufacturer to consider. You can buy direct from them or via a retailer like B&H. If you buy from AEO just select the cable from the drop down menu, the K10D is listed. I was able to capture lots of lightning with this unit on the K5, the triggers are most useful when the sun is still up and the 'long exposure guess' is less useful. To provide an example this is a composite of 12 images (after I'd removed about 5 others), there was a lot of lightning activity and the camera was triggered so many times with this storm. the storm was a unique opportunity due to my location and the direction of it's travel, but it is an example of why I can attest to the effectiveness of this product. I chose this one as the latency from lightning strike to actuating the shutter was less than the other unit I was looking at from here: Home - Strike Finder One of their units would still be a good option, and they too have varying model/price options to consider. Their top of the line unit the Strikefinder touch is a 5 in 1 model and triggers the shutter in less than 1ms. That's better than the 3ms of my AEO and has more functinality to boot. If you want to go more contemporary, I was really interested in the MIOPS when it came out, details here: MEET MIOPS \| MIOPS It looks more contemporary in design and functionality than the unit I have, and it will work with Pentax cameras and can be controlled by a smartphone. Hopefully someone around here has one of these to provide some feedback for you. A search of B&H using 'lightning trigger' will pop up more options but the three identified above are the unit I have and can say works well, the other option (Ubertronix) I considered and the later model with more contemporary functionality that I would probably choose if I didn't already have a lightning trigger. Tas Last edited by Tas; 08-06-2017 at 09:41 PM.

08-07-2017, 12:50 AM - 1 Like	#5
splash_fr Senior Member Join Date: May 2013 Posts: 178	I use the pluto trigger, works very goos and is controlled by smartphone app: Pluto Trigger - Ein vielseitig einsetzbarer Kamera-Auslöser rgds, Gerd.

08-07-2017, 10:48 AM	#6
Not a Number Moderator Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Venice, CA Posts: 10,526	The K10D cable remote uses the standard 2.5mm 3 pole "stereo" connector that the majority of Pentax cameras use. And most Canon cable releases should be compatible..

08-07-2017, 11:25 AM	#7
jpzk Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Québec Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 8,251 Original Poster	Originally posted by splash_fr I use the pluto trigger, works very goos and is controlled by smartphone app: Pluto Trigger - Ein vielseitig einsetzbarer Kamera-Auslöser rgds, Gerd. Looks like the ap is only iOS ... he/I have a Sasumg (Android).

08-07-2017, 07:36 PM	#8
jpzk Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Québec Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 8,251 Original Poster	Thanks so much for the pertinent information, folks! I'll pass the details to my son ... he'll be thrilled that this can work for him.

08-07-2017, 08:26 PM	#9
rawr Veteran Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Posts: 11,913	Originally posted by jpzk Looks like the ap is only iOS ... he/I have a Sasumg (Android). Middle of the Pluto trigger product page says: "Android 4.3 with Bluetooth 4.0 LE or later". Pluto Trigger - A versatile smart camera remote Interestingly, the Pluto has a passive IR sensor, which allows heat-based triggering ['Detect human or animals' body heat and take photos!'], as well as a light/laser sensor.

08-08-2017, 12:37 AM	#10
Not a Number Moderator Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Venice, CA Posts: 10,526	Some of the triggers have motion detectors, sound or laser light activation among other inputs.

08-08-2017, 07:46 AM	#11
sholtzma Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Salisbury, NC Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,043	Any multi-purpose triggers (light, sound, etc) that work with the K-1?

08-08-2017, 08:47 AM	#12
nikono Junior Member Join Date: May 2015 Posts: 42	The shutter release for the K-1 works via the 3-contact 2.5mm plug (focus, trigger). Accessories? PENTAX K-1 \| RICOH IMAGING I think all trigger units that are sold in the market, with the right plug, can work with the camera. However, imo, a photo of a random streak of light in the sky is only 20% of the thrill. It's a muted thrill like a roller coaster ride that's not screaming. It is the thunder that completes the thrill. And better yet, counting the seconds between the lighting and the thunder tells how far away the lighting is (number of seconds X speed of sound). A still photo lacks all that data. I'd use video mode to capture lightning and thunder then I can grab any still frame I want from the video.

08-08-2017, 11:07 AM	#13
jpzk Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Québec Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 8,251 Original Poster	Originally posted by rawr Middle of the Pluto trigger product page says: "Android 4.3 with Bluetooth 4.0 LE or later". Pluto Trigger - A versatile smart camera remote Interestingly, the Pluto has a passive IR sensor, which allows heat-based triggering ['Detect human or animals' body heat and take photos!'], as well as a light/laser sensor. Interesting ! Thanks! More stuff to send to my son now.

08-17-2017, 10:05 AM	#14
lazarustx Site Supporter Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Austin Tx Posts: 209	I have the K1, shouldn't these work with the K1's cable input or the Infrared Input. I looked at the Pluto Trigger, but the K1 isn't listed. However, I'm going to assume that a Pentax wired trigger is universal.

08-17-2017, 12:02 PM - 1 Like	#15
Not a Number Moderator Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Venice, CA Posts: 10,526	Originally posted by lazarustx I have the K1, shouldn't these work with the K1's cable input or the Infrared Input. I looked at the Pluto Trigger, but the K1 isn't listed. However, I'm going to assume that a Pentax wired trigger is universal. From the Pluto website linked above: Quote: E3: 645D, 645Z, ist D, ist DL, ist DL2, ist DS, ist DS2, K1, K-3, K3 II, K-30, K-5, K-5 II, K-5 IIs, K-5 IIt, K-50, K-500, K-7, K10 Grand Prix, K100D, K100D Super, K10D, K110D, K200D, K20D, MZ-6, MZ-L, ZX-L Even though it should actually be K-1. The K-1 uses the common 2.5mm 3 pole (stereo) plug that is used by the majority of Pentax DSLRs that accept wired remotes, Canon and other camera brands.