Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

I just bought an UltraZap 1600 serial #7388 on eBay ( http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330722825103#ht_500wt_1031 ). The unit looks to be in excellent shape. But after 10-15 flashes at any power level, the flash stops working. when I hit the test button I hear a click, but no light and the ready light stays green. I have to turn it off or leave alone for about 5-10 minutes then it starts working again.

Any idea as to what could be causing this erratic behavior?


Thank you,
Aharon



ps. How old is this unit?

The very fist thing would be to eliminate the method of triggering. Does this happen from the test button? Does this happen with a remote or standard sync cord? What about the slave eye? Does the same method work when using a different light? Once this is confirmed to persist via multiple paths of triggering, then you can trouble shoot the light.

Have you tried reseating the flash tube? I would suggest removing the tube (using a clean cloth or gloves), inspecting the legs for burn marks or charring, and if clean, reinstalling the tube and retesting.

Removing the model lamp may make the tube removal easier (it just unscrews like a regular bulb), and the tube just pulls straight out, though a gentle rocking motion may be required. There will be black marks inside the glass near the legs. This is normal and OK. The burn marks would be on the tips of the metal legs. If there are burn marks, then you should discontinue use, and send it in for repair (or go through the dispute process for ebay, if applicable and desirable). Burn marks indicate arcing from an ill seated tube. This damages both the tube as well as the contacts in the light. Simply replacing the tube will then damage the new tube, as installing the damaged tube in another light will damage the new light.

If the tube looks good, and the problem persists after reinstallation, you can swap tubes with another UltraZap, X-series, or Alien Bee series flash unit. If the problem follows the tube, you can simply replace the tube. If the problem remains with the flash, the unit will need to come in (or go the dispute route).

Repairs generally fall under the $50 standard repair fee. This includes most repairs, and shipping to a U.S. address. It does not include the price for expendables like bulbs or cords, shipping to us, or shipping out of the country.

I have eliminated the trigger variables, I've tested optical, test button, Sync cables. Same behavior.

I will move on to the lamp next. I don't have another Paul C Buff product to test with. So If I see anything that may look like a problem with the bulb, I'll just order a replacement, if that doesn't work, then I'll send it in for repairs.


Thank you,
Aharon

Given the resources at hand, that may be the best route to take. At worst, you will have a spare tube.

This is what the bulb looks like when I pulled it.



I'll like to send in the unit for repairs, What's my next step?


Thank you,
Aharon

That will do it. There is a link below which describes the repair process. Basically, box it up, include a not saying what is wrong, include name and contact info, and our address is in the link. You may also want to specify you need a new tube as well.

http://www.paulcbuff.com/repair.php