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Constant power supply for Flash unit
May 19, 2015 14:08:29 #
Lens Cap wrote:
lightcatcher, thanks, but yes I have tried them and actually they don't seem to last as long as the standard batteries.....thanks for commenting!
They shouldn't because the carbon-zinc AA's put out 1.5 volts and the rechargeables, NiCad or NMH, have an output of 1.2 Volts so it takes them a bit longer to bring the capacitor to full charge.
Depending on the configuration of your flash, you may be able to make up two battery packs of four rechargeable AA's wired in PARALLEL, positive to positive, to maintain the 6v output, velcro them together and run the two leads from the pack to the contacts in the flash making sure the continuity is correct. You can either fix the pack to the flash also with velco, or make the leads long enough to keep the batteries in your pocket. This will work if you can get at (preferably behind) the contacts in the flash unit to make a good connection--with low temp solder and a soldering iron with low wattage, 60W being the max. The basic four AA battery holders should be easily found at consumer electronics stores--the old Radio Shack stores had them as stock items.
Good luck, and if you are not confident of your soldering skills, find a friend to make the last two connections for you.
May 19, 2015 14:15:17 #
ole sarg
Loc: south florida
One hamster. one generator, bag of kibbles, two wires!
had to say it
had to say it
Lens Cap wrote:
Has anyone (successfully) been able to replace the 4 AA batteries in a DSLR flash unit, with a single (AC powered) DC power source? My flash seems to eat the 4 AA batteries which is not conducive when testing ideas requiring flash. I just curious if anybody has a DIY solution or even a purchasable solution.
May 19, 2015 14:39:32 #
ole sarg wrote:
One hamster. one generator, bag of kibbles, two wires!
had to say it
had to say it
:thumbup:
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May 19, 2015 15:12:41 #
captxmas
Loc: San Francisco Bay Area
Quantum is excellent and often available used on e-bay. The problem being that the batteries may be expended. BUT....Batteries can be had cheaply by third party supplies and installed CAREFULLY1 so you don't let the smoke out of the electronics. Adapters and cords for your flash are available also although when changing between models I was able to utilize an existing cord with minor modification.
May 19, 2015 17:30:00 #
amfoto1
Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA
You didn't mention the brand and model of flash, but many can be used with an additional, external power source such as the Quantum.
I use rechargeable AA in my flashes and external power sources and they last much longer than alkaline AA, plus the flashes recycle much faster.
There are different quality rechargeable AA. Some are pretty low capacity, while others are larger.
I use rechargeable AA in my flashes and external power sources and they last much longer than alkaline AA, plus the flashes recycle much faster.
There are different quality rechargeable AA. Some are pretty low capacity, while others are larger.
May 21, 2015 05:44:12 #
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