Vivitar 285 HV zoom Flash help needed

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Archive 2009 · Vivitar 285 HV zoom Flash help needed

Ray Still
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p.1 #1 · Vivitar 285 HV zoom Flash help needed

Read a lot of great things about the old school Vivitar 285HV flash so I picked one up along with a SB4 AC power supply. Unpacked it pristine condition no manual though. So I go to install 4 AA batteries ummm they sure fit loose something is not right here. Ok I have the SB4 so I'll check it out that way without batteries. Doesn't power on. Ok time to find manual online which I did. Seeing the unit is missing the Battery insert alright strike 2..
Here is the part I'm confused on the manual say you need 4 batteries in unit if you use the SB4 AC power for the Synch to work. My question even without batteries shouldn't the unit power on with the SB4 AC power plug attached and plugged in. I did as the manual said whenn using the SB4 I kept the flash power switch in the off position.

Any help appreciated. Was able to track down a battery insert but won't be able to pick it up until tomorrow

Nov 10, 2009 at 09:55 PM

cgardner
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p.1 #2 · Vivitar 285 HV zoom Flash help needed

There should be a cassette to hold the batteries, but you figured that out.

The batteries are needed to run the control circuit. The SB-4 AC adapter just supplies the flash. If memory serves the 285HV manual is incorrect about the power needing to be on/off. I know its the opposite of the older 283 model.

Chuck

Nov 10, 2009 at 10:04 PM

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