Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

At a rodeo yesterday, our X1600's all performed reliably, but at least one of our Einsteins failed to fire very frequently. I was triggering it with a PowerMC2 at first, then later added a Plus II, in addition, which seemed to have no significant effect.

I like using the Einstein for the most important spots in the arena, for the fast duration, but it's got to be super-reliable.

A while back while testing some studio stuff, I noticed that it wasn't always firing, even when I hit the Test button. I believe I sent one of the lights in for repair for this exact issue.

What could be causing this? Could it be a flash tube going bad? I guess I should just send them both in... I've got an important event starting on the 18th, and if I can't be confident they'll fire every time, I'll need to just use the X1600's instead.

Another issue I'm having with the Einsteins in certain arenas is that the soft-power switch means that after a momentary loss of power, if won't automatically come back on like the X1600's. This means I actually have to stop taking photos (not good when you're the official photographer for a rodeo!) and turn the Einsteins back on. The PowerMC2/FlexTT5 implies that you should be able to "wake" the flash up remotely, but how? Later I'll try it out with auto-hibernate enabled, but that would provide its own risk (expecting the flash to go off when it's gone to sleep)...

I need to order more flashes before long, but I need to work out these issues! I love the flash duration of the Einsteins, and the ability to remote control them would help a lot, but I wonder if they can be reliable enough for when every shot matters, and a non-fire means I lose potential profit.

Another issue, I got an AC9 to try with one of the X1600's, and have stopped using it for important events, because occasionally it will cause the Dumping light to go solid red, and the flash will refuse to fire... when I remove the AC9 and trigger with a sync cord to via the FlexTT5, it works reliably, however.

This will be important to know. If the flash is not firing from its own test button, then there is a problem with the flash. If it does fire from its own test button, does it fire from the receiver's test button reliably? By determining if it is a flash or radio remote communications problem will reduce headaches in the correction process.


Assuming the flash is not firing from its own test button, then there could be a problem developing in the tube (probably a lead break), or a problem internal to the light.
Intermittent triggering could come from a bad radio, interference, shielding or range. PocketWizard will need to help you out on that, if that is the case. http://www.pocketwizard.com/support or 802-658-0038 x572


Einstein can be turned on or off remotely via the Cyber Commander and CSXCV combo. I am unsure of the controls in the PocketWizard transmitters. PocketWizard will need to assist you in that regard.


Common causes of this include a bad ground in the power supply (this includes the AC outlet, extension cords, power strips, and even the power cord for the light itself). Also, ensure the power slider is set to full power. You may also want to swap the telephone cords for good measure. These are things we look for in the CyberSync system. PocketWizard may have more suggestions.

I sent the Einsteins off in the mail last night. They were indeed not always firing from its own Test button, even with no remote plugged in. It seems to get worse after a few flashes (possibly getting too hot?), which could be because of dust inside (I'm a rodeo photographer).

Regarding the wake-up feature, PocketWizard was supposed to have added that in the last firmware, but they said there's a bug, so it doesn't work, but will be fixed in the next update. Hopefully soon!

Regarding the AC9, I will try and test out with several X1600's tonight.

Thanks,
David