Concurrent with the launch of the D700, Nikon has also announced the introduction of the Nikon Speedlight SB-900, a new external i-TTL flash unit with advanced features.

-
leadpic_SB900

July 1, 2008: Concurrent with the launch of the D700, Nikon has also announced the introduction of the Nikon Speedlight SB-900, a new external i-TTL flash unit with advanced features.
Successor to the popular SB-800 model, the SB-900 provides a wide 17-200 mm auto zoom range (expanded from the SB-800’s 24-105mm), three illumination patterns, newly designed, streamlined operation with a full-information LCD panel, and AF-Assist illumination compatible with new-generation AF sensors. An improved booster circuit provides faster recycle times and firmware can be uploaded via a Nikon digital SLR camera to ensure the SB-900 can accept the latest technological advancements.

-
SB900_back_sml

Rear view of the new Nikon SB-900 Speedlight.
The SB-900 offers three illumination patterns (standard, centre-weighted and even) and automatically detects Nikon FX and Nikon DX formats and selects suitable light distribution. It can also automatically detect colour filters (fluorescent or incandescent), allowing the camera to control colour temperature according to filter information. New AF-Assist illumination covers a wide 20-105 mm focal range compatible with the new Multi-CAM3500 FX/DX AF sensor. A thermal cut-out function limits the number of flashes to avoid deterioration of light emitting parts caused by continuous flash firing.
The SB-900 is powered by two AA-size batteries and will be offered at an RRP of $749. Full product details can be found at www.nikon.com.au.