EOS Extendable Remote Shutter Release

Here are my notes on how to make an extendable remote shutter release for Canon EOS 5D/20D/30D/40D camera.

Click on any image for a larger version.

remote release for Canon 5D/20D/30D/40D


The base product is the Remote Shutter Release from Dot Line for Canon cameras using 3-pin remote connector (5D, 20D, 30D, 40D).  It is avaliable in two forms, with the modern palm mechanism or with the traditional thumb-activated plunger release mechanism as pictured here.  A partial press initiates autofocus, a full press triggers exposure.  The lock mechanism latches the exposure on the pressing of the plunger.  Press the plunger again to terminate the exposure.

The Remote Shutter Release has been modified by the in-line insertion of a 1/8 inch (3.5mm) stereo (3-conductor) mini plug and jack.  This allows for the insertion of compatible items like a 20-ft. stereo headphone extension cable or a custom shutter release that terminates in a 3.5mm stereo plug, for example, an adapter that allows shutter release plunger for the Canon (FD manual) Auto Bellows to close the aperature and electronically trigger the EOS camera shutter.

Parts list:
Make
 Part#
 Description
 Source
 Price
Dot Line
 DL-1483 Remote Release for Canon Cameras Using 3-Pin Remote Connector
(traditional thumb-activated plunger release mechanism, 2 ft. coiled cord)
 B&H Photo
 $39.95
RadioShack 274-284 1/8" Stereo Phone Plug (2-Pack) RadioShack $3.99
RadioShack 274-274 1/8" Stereo In-Line Audio Jack RadioShack $3.99
RadioShack 42-2562 20-Ft. Stereo Headphone Cable, 1/8" Jack to 1/8" Plug RadioShack
 $8.99


Total parts price
$56.92

Instructions - standard disclaimers apply - I am not liable for any damages to your remote release, camera, or any other equipment that you use.
  1. cut the cable (e.g. with diagonal cutters) near the camera end, but leave yourself some space for the jacket and some extra in case you make a mistake and have to make a new clean cut.
  2. put on the jacket(s) - STOP, DO NOT SOLDER YET - PUT ON THE JACKETS FIRST - YES, RIGHT NOW
  3. using the wiring details, cut and strip the wires to fit, cut and strip the outer insulation but leave it long enough to fit inside the metal strain relief
  4. using the wiring details, solder
  5. crimp strain relief around insulation, and screw on the jackets
  6. test the plug end using a meter or other continuity tester
  7. assemble plug in jack and test with camera with and without extension
Enjoy!

Wiring detail - you can verify this yourself with a meter:

wire
 conductor
 function
red
 tip
 expose
yellow
 ring
 focus
white
 sleeve
 ground
green
 (none)
 (unused)

wiring detail - remote release for Canon 5D/20D/30D/40D

NoBell Home - gjm - last update 10/11/2007, created 10/11/2007