Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Hey everyone, new to the forums...

On our last 2 location shoots we of course took along the Vagabond II as we were using our AB 1600's for shooting. While shooting, everything worked as it should for a while then all of a sudden the VB2 would not power the AB. The VB2 was fully charged and we maintain the charge when the system is not being used between photoshoots etc. This happened to us on another location shoot and cost us the shot we needed with our clients on a sunset engagement session. After testing the VB2 at home before a wedding last night and all was working fine. At the wedding on another sunset shot guess what, no power to the AB1600 right when we needed it in the middle of a golf course, just a "beep" every few seconds from the VB2.... The VB2 does not get used to death or abused and yet has not been reliable for the past 3 shoots (2 of which were with the same client on 2 different occasions!)

We are about to order the new mini anyway but the fact that the VB2 is still is perfect condition and not working is upsetting :evil: . Any news on this issue from anyone out there??

Sounds like a partially dead battery...

It does sound like a near dead battery. Even with perfect maintenance, a battery does not have infinite life, and no two batteries will live the same length of time.

However, you can have the battery checked under load at most auto parts stores. You can also use the alligator clips that came with the VII to connect with a car or lawn mower battery to test proper function with another battery source.

If you have a multimeter, you can also check the charger output of the VII inverter. Disconnect the battery from the inverter (be sure no cables touch the opposite terminal or cable). Connect the inverter to the wall as though you are charging it. Meter the contacts coming from the inverter. You should have 13.85VDC or more. If not, contact us for repair options. If you do, then the battery is the likely culprit.

Also, you are more than welcome to send the unit in to have use inspect the it if you are not comfortable doing it yourself.

Thanks guys, We will run some tests on the battery to see if thats the issue. In the mean time we have ordered a mini to put to the test when it arrives. Will post back the results of the VB2 tests...