p.2 #1 · How do I use Canon speedlite, it doesn't do anything :/
The 420 can not be accessed by the cameras external speedlight control, that only applies to the 580exII.
You should check the cameras custom functions at the end of the menu and look for the menu option that asks to disable the flash. Did you check all of the custom functions when you got the camera to see how it is set up?
And clean the pins from time to time.
Namik wrote:
I tried checking it but when clicking in the menu, it says: "This menu cannot be displayed. Incompatible flash or flash's power is turned off." But flash is on so I don't know.
I think I am putting it correctly...all pins seem to align.
p.2 #2 · How do I use Canon speedlite, it doesn't do anything :/
Daniel K wrote:
The 420 can not be accessed by the cameras external speedlight control, that only applies to the 580exII.
You should check the cameras custom functions at the end of the menu and look for the menu option that asks to disable the flash. Did you check all of the custom functions when you got the camera to see how it is set up?
And clean the pins from time to time.
I already mailed it back to sender. I also tried it on one of my friend's nikons and it behaves the same way: just fires preflash.
p.2 #4 · How do I use Canon speedlite, it doesn't do anything :/
Namik wrote:
I already mailed it back to sender. I also tried it on one of my friend's nikons and it behaves the same way: just fires preflash.
Trying the 420EX on your friend's Nikon would not have helped troubleshoot the problem. Canon flashes are not designed to be used on Nikons and vice versa. Each company uses a proprietary flash system.
I cannot think of any setting on the 40D that would have explained what you experienced. The fact that the internal flash works suggests that the flash exposure compensation is not misset. The 420EX does not have its own flash exposure compensation controls, so the camera's flash exposure compensation settings take precedence.
It does appear that the flash is malfunctioning, but it is possible that the 40D has a problem, too. You could go to a local photography store and ask to try a brand new EX flash on your 40D to localize the problem. If the problem still occurs, then your 40D has the problem.
p.2 #6 · How do I use Canon speedlite, it doesn't do anything :/
A common problem is that the screws holding the hot shoe plate on the body become loose. You will get very erratic results when this happens. It is also the simplest thing to fix.
The link below is about fixing a 20D, but it applies to your 40D as well. This method also works for fixing off-camera cords.
p.2 #7 · How do I use Canon speedlite, it doesn't do anything :/
More a few times I've used a ST-E2 for AF assist only and forgot to enable "flash fires" for external Speedlites afterwards. A week later I wonder why the hell my 430EX won't fire. Of course after a few brain farts I realize what the hell and enable flash function.
