flash voltage on Bessa Rx

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olleorama

flasher extraordinaire
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What's the recommended maximum flash voltage for R2, and Rxm bessa models? I recently got myself a R2 and have failed to find any information.
 
Well, my random guess is that it's ∞, since it's a mechanical shutter. But if the metering is somehow connected to the flash terminal or if the share a common ground (but why???) somehow, there could be a risk.
 
I'm not sure of the premise behind this question. The circuitry in the camera sends a signal that triggers the flash unit. The accumulated and stored energy in the flash unit's capacitor is directed to the flash unit's bulb/tube, not back into the camera.
Voltage might be high but amperage would be miniscule.
 
Leigh Youdale said:
I'm not sure of the premise behind this question. The circuitry in the camera sends a signal that triggers the flash unit. The accumulated and stored energy in the flash unit's capacitor is directed to the flash unit's bulb/tube, not back into the camera.
Voltage might be high but amperage would be miniscule.
Click to expand...

It is quite widely known that high voltage flashes can damage modern camera electronics. I wonder if I can inflict any harm on the light meter on my bessa by using a high voltage flash. Yes, the current might be low, but still, Better safe than sorry. (I use a 320 w/s press flash with a voltage of around 190 V with my super 23, and would like to use it with my bessa)
 
Most electronic flash guns charge up to around 300V, so your camera should be fine upto this level.


Sent from my GT-S5830
 
I've used all my strobes (old ones) on the hot shoe of my BessaR and so far so good. I did read that even if it is safe the mechanical contacts could become pitted from high voltages. I got a SAFE SYNCH which many don't like but I do. And I use it all the time on my hot shoe cameras (it adds a little height for red eye reduction). I also use it on my IIIf just to be sure. (I'm tired of CLAs on the IIIf).
 
Update!

Update!

My bigass press flash wont fire from the bessas sync port! Strange as it may sound it does fire from all my other mechanical and electronic (including my 5D) cameras but not the bessa R2! The PC sync connection does however work as it is capable of releasing other flash guns (with lower voltages).

Either the model specific camera-to-flash cable plug is incompatible with the bessa (not so likely as it works with other cameras), or there is somekind of electronic safety circuit in the R2? Or is there something else I have missed?

Extremely annoying trying to shoot people in the night with acros without flash.
 
You may need to email Cosina and ask about flash sync voltages that would be the safest way. I once had a Metz 45 CT 1 with a high sync voltage. I plugged it into my Sekonic Flash mate and it damaged the flashmate, can't say if the Bessa would be damaged by a high sync voltage but I would not want to risk it. An email to Cosina will cost nothing so it is worth a try. Maybe Camera Quest would know also.
 
Stephen Gandy recommended me not to use the big flash on the bessa. I will buy or build a safe synch I think.
 
Hi - my understanding is that you can use a flash of any voltage. The trigger is on a different circuit to the meter. I've used several higher voltage flashes without a problem. Note that this advice was confirmed from the shop I bought it from.

Good luck

Andrew
 
mercedes_sl1970 said:
Hi - my understanding is that you can use a flash of any voltage. The trigger is on a different circuit to the meter. I've used several higher voltage flashes without a problem. Note that this advice was confirmed from the shop I bought it from.

Good luck

Andrew
Click to expand...

That was my understanding too. But it just wont fire this flash, although it works with every other camera I have.
 
olleorama said:
That was my understanding too. But it just wont fire this flash, although it works with every other camera I have.
Click to expand...

That seems odd. I've used an off camera flash with sync cord with similar or higher voltages on my R3A. The only thing I can think of is that the sync pin is not mating well with the socket. Mayhap you need to rig up a shoe based sync... These things are always frustrating!

Andrew
 
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