Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

I was using the Ring Flash the other day (The ZRM1 RingMaster) with my Z2500 - Zeus pack and after firing a couple of shots the ready lamp would just not come on. This is the second time I have run into this issue.

This has never happened before. Any reason why this could be happening? I've let them cool down for over an hour as well before I could pop another shot - but still no luck!

If I turn on the modelling lamps for a second or two, just to see if the ring flash is getting power - it works.

The Z2500 is powered by the Vagabond II. Any help on this would be much appreciated.

Are you running the Vagabond as a step down transformer, that is, it is plugged into the wall to convert 230VAC to 120VAC? Or are you running just the VII as a remote power supply? The problem may lie in the VII or in the Zeus. If you have access to another 120VAC outlet, you can check to see if the Zeus pack will work properly on it. You can do a couple of things to the VII to judge its performance. You can meter the output of the AC outlet to ensure it is 120VAC. Also, you may want to have the battery tested under load to ensure it can keep up with the demand. Many auto parts stores in the U.S. can do this, I presume many worldwide can do the same. Alternatively, you can connect the VII inverter to a car battery and see if the characteristics improve.

Are you using any remotes via the RJ11 connection?

I use the VII for both purposes - as a remote power supply and as a step down transformer. I simultaneously use 2x1600's and 1x3200 white lightnings on my VII and the zeus pack - they all worked fine. Would there still be an issue with the VII on that account?

Will the Zeus work fine by itself? Are you using any remotes via the telephone jack? How long are you waiting for the green light? 30 Seconds? are you getting a red dump light when waiting for green?