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Photography Question 

Brenda D.
 

flash and batteries


Hello everyone,I use all Canon products the EOS 40D, and the speedlite420ex I have them on a stroboframe camera flip bracket with a canon off camera shoe cord. I use them in studio and out recently when I have used them, my flash is VERY slow at recharging and the batteries get so hot you cant touch them even with new batteries. I use the blue and silver Energizer lithium ion. does anyone have any idea why these batteries get so hot and can you reccomend any batteries. this is the first time I've ever had trouble usually the batteries never fail me could it be in my flash?


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December 07, 2008

 
- Gregory LaGrange

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  Haven't heard of anyone complaining about rechargeable batteries getting hot on discharge. Only getting warm when they get charged.
Every tried regular alkaline ones with the same heat generated?


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December 07, 2008

 

Brenda D.
  these are not rechargable, just a regular battery. I have used the regular alkaline but they dont seem to last as long.


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December 07, 2008

 

Jon Close
  Single-use lithiums have this tendency when used in flashes. Alklines won't last as long and are slower to cycle the flash, but they don't tend to overheat, either. Best compromise (and least expensive long term) are rechargeable NiMH. Cycle the flash very quickly, but won't overheat like lithiums. Shorter life (more like alkalines), but just carry two sets - one in the speedlight and the other charged or charging.

More generally, if you are firing many flash shots in a short period of time, then you're going to either overheat the batteries, the flash tube, or both. The 420EX manual only has an overheating warning about using the modeling flash, but should have the same warning as the 430EX manual: "To avoid overheating and deteriorating the flash head, do not fire rapid bursts of more than 20 continuous flashes. After 20 continuous flashes, allow a rest time of at least 10 minutes."


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December 07, 2008

 

Brenda D.
  aahhhh that explains it, the rapid fire thing. I guess the next time I have a family of 6 boys and 1 girl in the studio I will pass out the......never mind I'll keep them for myself. JK thanks for the help.


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December 08, 2008

 

ANTHONY CAROLINA
  I have a similar set up except I use the 580EX, I use akaline batteries, change them frequently. I do weddings and will change each time I change locations. probably twice at reception. I dont do rapid burst except when bride & groom enter reception hall. I dont mind the frequent changes. the other option is to get a battery pack. my next investment for 2009 wedding season.


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December 08, 2008

 
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