Any non-Canon flashes that take Canon power packs?

JimKarczewski

So, I have 6 Canon flashes, but only 3 of them are 580 or higher and it seems like between the 540EX and the 580EX (and II) they changed how using lower than full power flashing works. With the 580 or higher if you set it to manual and say 1/4 power it will fully charge the capacitor and dump only enough when triggered to release 1/4 power. Older 540EZ seem to charge up to that amount then dump, charge, dump.. Which is MUCH slower.

So wondering if any of the appropriate models (younnou, cactus, etc) have the same high voltage connectors as the canons to attach external power packs to? I only ask because I just purchased 4 PiXel packs and would like to be able to use them all while shooting sports until I can afford to pick up another 580...


Thanks!

ziggy53

No, I have not found any 3-rd party flash manufacturers that use a Canon-style high-voltage external power.

Older Vivitar 285HV flashes could use a third-party high-amperage external power source, even a simple DIY rig with a gel-cell (heavy) storage battery. (It's not as fast to charge as a Canon HV rig but faster than standard AA cells and many more shots/battery.)

http://www.comatosed.ca/writing/writing/reviews/DIY_Vivitar_285_HV_Battery_Pack.html

A Canon 550EX will use an external high-voltage battery pack and has the standard Canon HV connector. You can often find them in the $200-$250USD range.

JimKarczewski

Thanks Ziggy. You know, I didn't realize the 580EXII are $399 right now until Jan 7.. so may just make the plunge and buy another...