Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Like a fool, I used my 4 new mini lithiums and 4 new Einstein heads, before reading the manual fully. I used the modeling lights on high (forbidden in manuel) for about ten minutes before noticing a burning smell coming from the minis. The units still work, but I am wondering how screwed I am. Any thoughts on weather or not it is safe to continue to use the batteries (without modeling lights, of course) or do they have to be sent in and repaired?

An initial "burning" smell is not that uncommon as stuff heats for the first time under hard use. Since the model lamps were on high, that will push the VML to its max capacity, heating significantly (which does not suggest hot or dangerously hot).

I seriously doubt any damage was done or that anything actually burned or came close to burning.

Let them cool down, and then test them again without the model lamp on or with it at very low power (under 50W).

Thanks, I did this and they are working fine..