Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Just purchased and set up my first and only Einstein and ran it through some paces to be sure it was a good unit. In Color mode, the unit begins to trigger erratically when set below 15 WS. Sometimes it will trigger, sometimes not. Sometimes bringing up the power, triggering the light and then lowering the power and repeating the action will allow me to successfully "walk" the power down to lower levels successfully. In Action mode this behavior begins at about 5 WS. Another unusual behavior is that the flash ready indicator will show "Ready" almost immediately after power-up, but if the flash is triggered at some low power level, it will fail to fire and then show "Not Ready" for 1-2 minutes before going back to "Ready". Triggering was always performed via the "Test" button on the back, and the unit will beep after a failed trigger, as if it triggered prperly and is again ready to go.

I've plenty of experience with other monolights and packs, and have to conclude this is a malfunction. Any suggestions to try before I return the unit?

Thanks,

Brian

Make sure the flash tube is seated well.

Agreed. With the unit unplugged for about 15 minutes, remove the diffusion dome and press over each leg to ensure the tube is seated. If that does not resolve this, then contact customer service for warranty service.

Thanks for the advice. First thing I tried was re-seating the tube. It is very firmly attached. Almost too firmly. I'm considering removing the tube, cleaning the contacts and re-seating it. Any advice before I do this? There is some risk to the flash tube, due in part to the firmness of the mount, and I'm concerned about warranty issues if I damage it.

Brian

No warranty issues about removing or reseating the tube. However, the firmness tells me it is seated properly. It doesnt hurt to try, but it is likely an internal issue.

OK. Removed, lightly cleaned (no obvious contamination/corrosion) and reseated. Same problem - no change. What do I need to do to return this unit? Can a new one be shipped while I mail this one back to avoid turnaround time? It is brand-new. (No. 529928, 9/26/11). Do I need an RMA number? Please advise.

Thanks,

Brian

You will need to contact customer service for warranty service.