Even with this remote’s basic use as a shutter release, The Canon TC80N3 timer remote is a handy tool to have. To eliminate possible camera shake, it’s advisable to use a shutter release combined with mirror lock-up and placing your camera in on a tripod in low light situations. Using the shutter release in this way helps to limit camera shake which improves the sharpness of your images.

In addition to the shutter release, other programmable features include a self timer, interval timer, long exposure setting, and exposure count. These settings may be used in any combination making the possibilities virtually limitless. For example, time lapse photography may use a combination of the interval timer and the exposure count. Plus when desired, the self timer can be used to delay the first shot. Alternatively, just using the self timer will permit the photographer to set up the hot and comfortably settle into the shot. The self timer, long exposure, and interval timer settings are limited to 99 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds. The exposure count can be set for up to 99 shots.

The settings can be entered at any time without worry of inadvertent alterations. Pressing the light button until the hold indicator is displayed will deactivate all but the light button or prevents the stop/start button from being deactivated once an operation has been started. An indicator in the display panel lets the user know when the CR2032 battery power starts to get low. If the battery is fine, there is no indicator on the screen. A storage place is included on the back for your camera’s RC socket cover. The remote connects to the camera simply by pressing the plug into the camera’s socket. To disconnect, pinch the plug on the side and pull out.

I've owned my remote since 2004 and the battery is still going strong. I'm not sure how long the battery is supposed to last, but complaints about not being able to turn the remote off seem unwarranted. The versatility and usefulness of this device makes this a must have for me.

The only down side I can see is the short cord from between the remote and the camera. At 34 inches, the remote must stay closely tethered to the camera. This may be fine for most uses, but can be a limitation for others.

It is clear to me that this is a well thought out, quality product by Canon. If you are looking for a versatile timer remote and can live with the short chord, don’t hesitate to purchase the Canon TC80N3.

PROS:
A simple shutter release
Includes self timer, interval timer, long exposure, and exposure count programmable options

CONS:
Thirtyfour inch cable