How to test a flash unit?

[rEv09]

Hi all, I'm thinking of getting a SB800 flash unit. But before i do, I would like to know how to test it to ensure that everything is working fine esp if i'm getting it 2nd hand.

 

[hammie]

Press the pilot button

 

[Daedalus Trent]

you might also want to test if its creative lighting system is working i.e- if it can be fired wirelessly ;p

 

[Ah Pao]

Check the auto zoom as well. I had a 580EX that had it's zoom disabled because of a faulty diffusor panel.

 

[Pokka]

Mount onto your camera and do a few test shots. Swivel the flash around and check for its flexibility in turning and tilting.

 

[rEv09]

Press the pilot button

what does the pilot button do?

 

[subxero]

what does the pilot button do?

test fire

 

[rEv09]

Okie, so

- press pilot button
- ensure rotating feature is working
- check zoom
- ?? how to test the creativity function wirelessly ??

 

[reachme2003]

at manual mode, use a flash meter to check its constant power at various settings, eg. 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2 and full power. also, check that its battery compartment has no signs of corrosion at its contact points. too many to check.

 

[Daedalus Trent]

Okie, so

- press pilot button
- ensure rotating feature is working
- check zoom
- ?? how to test the creativity function wirelessly ??

Ask the user how to set it

But if your camera cannot act as a commander, then i don't think you can test it :think:
Maybe if the seller is nice, you can ask if to bring sth that can trigger the flash via CLS ;p

 

[zac08]

Ask the user how to set it

But if your camera cannot act as a commander, then i don't think you can test it :think:
Maybe if the seller is nice, you can ask if to bring sth that can trigger the flash via CLS ;p

Get another SB-800 as a remote controller or slave... :bsmilie:

Which camera is the TS using?

 

[FusionMist]

You can actually use SU-4 function of SB800 even if your body cannot act as commander. =)

 

[ZerocoolAstra]

the SB800 can't really act as a remote commander if it's the ONLY flash unit, correct? Unless TS has another flash (eg. SB-600 or SB-800), or a cam body that can act as commander (D80 and above)....

 

[Daedalus Trent]

the SB800 can't really act as a remote commander if it's the ONLY flash unit, correct? Unless TS has another flash (eg. SB-600 or SB-800), or a cam body that can act as commander (D80 and above)....

nope, dun think so