Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

A few weeks ago I purchaced a mini vagabond lithium (230V version). After a few (test) photoshoots in combination with one of my existing old studioflashes (type 400ws / 220V / 50Hz) I suddenly got a problem. My flash fired several times spontaneously and uncontrollably then I got no longer power transfer from my MVL to my studioflash. I noticed that the cooling of the MVL began to work and kept running a long time. Since than I can’t use my MVL anymore. I notice that all the LEDs still burn when I switch power on and I also think the fuse is OK (because when I remove the fuse, the lights (LEDs) are off). I also checked my studioflash (wall) and he functions normally.
What could be the problem?

Do you have, say, a table lamp (120W or less) that you can plug in (power cord will probably be an issue, so do go through extremes to try it)?

When the flash units are plugged into the VML, and both are turned on, do you still see the three LED's in a row, or do they turn off under load?

What type of studio light? Will it work at the lowest power?

Does the outside of the unit feel hot with or without a load?

I have the VLM connected to a lamp (220V /50Hz/ 45W) but without any success. The lamp did not want to burn.
When I turn on the VML together with the flash, I notice the 3 leds keep burning but further nothing happens.

I also notice when I switch on the VML (loaded or unloaded) the cooling system starts working after about 20 min and the inverter feels a bit warm (not hot).

The strobe that I connected was an old Beam Profile (220V/50Hz/400ws/) and even at the lowest power nothing happens.

I hope the the power cord is not the problem. Don't think so but you never now (can't check this because the plug dont' fit into the european net). How can I be sure of this?

Just did a test with no load on the VML. After 45 minutes the fan never came on and the unit does not feel warm to the touch. Please contact customer service.

Although I purchased the unit only 6 weeks ago and so it’s still under warranty, it is not opportune of sending it back to you. The fact is that I have purchased the device through someone in the US. and they sent it to me (Belgium, Europe). I have since verified and shipping and returning the unit costs 3 times the price of the device itself. My only hope than is to find someone here with us that could repair the unit. If not, I have to throw it in the dustbin (about $400 shipping and taxes included). With your experience:do you think the problem lies with the inverter only (battery OK) ? Help, all suggestions what the problem could be are more than welcome !!

Thanks anyway for the advices
marc

Any way you could let us know the serial number of this unit?

On the inverter there is a sticker with the number V230001897

Best Regards
marc

Mmmm. I believe you have too many zeroes in that number? If so it appears the unit was purchased in February?

Your right there is one zero to much:the correct nr is V23001897

By the way: I notice there is a reply between yours and mine now that nothing has to do with our discussion topic

After consulting with other techs and our engineer, we would not be able to diagnose the problem without seeing the VML, which means it would have to come in for service.