I recently recieved my VML and have been playing around with powering my Elincrhom BXRIs. By no means have I done a scientific, controlled evaluation, but I did take a BX250Ri and put it through its paces.
Recyle times seemed to be as advertised and the VML powered the BX250Ri throughout the power range. I did notice a slight buzz as the BXRi charged that wasn\'t present when it was plugged into the wall.
So I emailed Elinchrom support:
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i know you haven\'t done any compatibility testing (or plan to) but I have a question about operation with third party battery packs.
i have a paulcbuff vagabond mini (http://alienbees.com/vmini.html) that employs a current limiting inverter - which drops the voltage (depending on load as low as 35VAC) to maintain function and prevent overheating as it operates.
I tried with one BXRI250 and it seems to work fine, but i do hear a slight buzz that isn\'t present when using a wall outlet. I assume this buzz is due to the lower voltage as the inverter charges up the BXRI.
i am not asking for a guarantee, but i could use some guidance on if there are potential concerns with BXRI operation in this configuration. (eg, that sound could be your BXRI control board frying... don\'t do that)
thanks!
steve
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And they quickly responded (to my plesant surprise):
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Hello Steve,
I asked back to our R&D.
They are not happy with this noise..
Our BXRi is a multivoltage unit and if the battery converter does not give sufficient power during recharging the flash unit might come into an undefined voltage mode, which could damage the capacitors. A single voltage unit operates differently and may not be effected. It’s better not to use this combination.
Kind Regards
Thomas
Thomas H.W. Beinke
Deputy Director / Marketing
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I was not as thrilled with the contents of the response though.
I would think the Vagabond I or II and BXRI combo would be in the same boat.
Have folks using that combo extensively experienced any issues?
Jan 21, 2011 at 11:27 AM
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