X sync socket problem

Matt: Glad to see that your detailed tests and my observations agree. I concur that an impedance converting "booster" circuit as you suggest would probably solve the OP's problem.

I am now intrigued as to how the other camera manufacturers arrange their flash interfaces and whether this arrangement that latches is unique to Pentax, I have already determined that Canon are different and do not latch. I must try to borrow some other cameras to test, the problem being that I only know Pentax owners (my 2 colleagues at work who own digital SLRs are fellow Pentaxians). I cannot imagine that latching is the norm as if this were the case then these trigger manufacturers would surely have it gripped?

(Edit: Punctuation error)

John,
AKAIK, Canon are easily popped. Apparently trigger voltages over 8V (IIRC) will blow the trigger mechanism.
They've probably just got a straight transistor output.

It's a tricky one - but easily fixed with the booster.
Matt

Yes, I reckon that the Canon is a simple transistor output and therefore likely to be more fragile than the Pentax thyristor system.

I remember a post from Clarky stating that he uses high voltage flashguns on his K20D with no problem. I have not plucked up the courage to try it yet, especially as this contradicts the advice given at SRS when I bought my K10D. However I now believe that the Pentax system is likely to be OK up to 300 volts or so, the usual minimum voltage that thyristors are rated at. When I am feeling braver I will try it out.

I just wish Pentax would tell us straight about this. Mind you I suppose they have nice new low voltage trigger flashguns to sell so they do not want us using our old kit instead

I am on the hunt now for some other brand cameras to test to see how they do it!

Don't know if this is completely relevant but?

I was trying to use a set of old Courtenay Solaflash units a few days ago with a PC sync cord connection to my K7. Immediately I plugged in the cord the flashes fired but they would NOT fire when I tripped the shutter.

After some research on the net, it seems the Courtenays may have a negative centre pin and this apparently can cause the problem. I've just now tested the K7 using a sync cord connection to my Metz 48 AF-1 and it works fine so it looks like there was no damage to the camera from the reversed polarity.

Useful discussion, I'm just trying to understand this myself.

So bottom line (albeit very simplistic), if I'm acquiring a flash that requires triggering through the PC sync, there are likely to be issues?

I'm looking at buying a Paffrath & Kemper Ring-flash

Thanks

Apologies for resurrecting this very old thread but I also have been looking for a way of safely using my K5 sync socket with a Courtenay Solaflash without frying the electrics.

I came across this little gadget which seems just the job

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160715596293&category=30087...

Has anyone got one of these and does it work o.k.?

Well, I have purchased the 'Sync Protector' and it works fine. An easy solution for anyone with old studio lights.