Is the triggering current of a Vivitar 283 Flash of sufficient value to damage the shutter contacts on a Leicaflex SL? Porter have a limiting device in their catalogue, which I assume is generic! Is a specific Leica Device on the market? Thank you in advance for your input. Pete Harvey

-- Pete Harvey (nnn0lmt@worldnet.att.net), August 02, 2001

Answers

The voltage output of the Vivitar 283/285 was changed during its long production. It's hard to tell, except that for the past 4-5 years they have "CHINA" embossed on the base, just in front of the flash foot, whereas before that it said "JAPAN". For sure, all the "CHINA" ones are lower voltage. That said, the voltage problem is between HV flash units fired through the *hot shoe* (direct or via PC adaptor)of modern cameras with dedicated/TTL circuitry. Firing a HV flash through the PC socket isn't going to harm any camera unless the instructions specifically say it will, since they're made for studio use. Lastly, at the time the SL was made pretty much all the electronic flashes were HV so it's unlikely there ever was a problem with the SL in that regard.

-- Jay (infinitydt@aol.com), August 02, 2001.

The short answer is no. Limiting devices are used to reduce the trigger voltage of older flash units and some studio flash units. The trigger voltage of these flashes can sometimes be over 200 volts which will damage cameras that use an electronic switch to fire the flash. Your SL uses a mechanical switch which will have no problems with the high voltage. The mechanical switche can oxidise and require cleaning; but, then the high voltage is a plus as it will fire even with a less than perfect connection.

It is easy to test your trigger voltage. Turn the flash on and allow it to charge the capacitor fully (20s to a minute after the ready light comes on). Then measure across the sync cord or shoe contacts with a volt meter. If I remember a PopPhoto article on this subject correctly, the electronic cameras like under 10 volts but I am no a 100 % sure so check your camera manual or manufacturer.

Cheers

-- John Collier (jbcollier@powersurfr.com), August 02, 2001.

My old 283 hasn't caused any problems with my SL or SL2.

-- Douglas Herr (telyt@earthlink.net), August 02, 2001.