Flashes & lighting
Graflex Graphic Stroboflash User manual
User manual for Graflex Graphic Stroboflash. 23 pages in English. Read the original PDF, download or print a copy without registration.
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- Brand
- Graflex
- Model / document
- Graflex Graphic Stroboflash
- Document type
- User manual
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 23
- File size
- 2.7 MB
- Category
- Flashes & lighting
- Document date
- Not specified in catalog
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Page 4 · Read text
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GENERAL DESCRIPTION t$
-:. $
The Stroboflash is a light weight completely portable electronic flash unit incorpora-
ting the latest in electron tube and printed circuit design These design features
incorporated ln a unit proven iq the field glve the Stroboflash a Very low operating $#j cost for any of the four sizes. .Each power pack is encased in heavy duty, durable
and water resistant Bolotron with Koiled power cord and plug, and shoulder strap. .":..'rr
Stroboflash I is dark blue
Stroboflash II has black bottom and grey top
Stroboflash III has black bottom and light blue top
Stroboflash'IV has black bottom and light blue top with 4-way
power selector.
t
The Stroboflash is designed for use with all cameras having "Xtt or iero delay '{r*
contact synchronization It may also be used with cameras not having such contacts
by utilizing open flash. AII four units use the same #2025 lamphead which is housed
in gr€y Bolotron and ls completely lnterchangeable.
s
NOTE: Stroboflash III has been replaced by Stroboflash IV. ,.
POWER PACK 'i*
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The Stroboflash I Power Pack contains the two batteries, two discharge capacitors '::.i
and a current limiting resistor. The batteries in thls unit are made especially for' ;_*E
uee in electronic equipment and to meet GRAFLEX specifications. The Stroboflash
II Power Pack contains two batteries, also specially made to GRAFLEX specifica-
tions, two discharge capacitors, a current limiting resistor and a fuse, - Bussman
Fusetron MDL 2/10 amp. The prime purpose of the fuse is to open the circuit and
prevent damage to the batteries in the event a capacitor urere to fbil. Contained in
the power paek of the Stroboflash III and IV are two batteries (same as those in the
[), a cument limiting resistor, or resistors, eight discharge capacitors and a fuse,
Bussman Fusetron MDL 1/4 amp. In all three models the power pack is connected
to the lamphead by a retractable Koiled Kord. Thls cord enables the photographer
to 6et the power pack down and have a 10 ft. radius in which to work with the camera
and lamphead. (With the Stroboflash I this radius is 5 ft. ) This feature is also ad-
vantageous when setting the unit upon a stand for slave operation
LAMP HEAD
The completely interchangeable lamphead for the Stroboflash units houses the
triggering circuit, flashtube, and reflector. The reflector has a super-satin
rrfeathering" finish which elimlnates hot-spots and allows for when off the camera.
The flashtube ie either a Kemlite DW2 or cE FT-118. The trlggering circuit con-
sibts of a trigger tube, printed electronic circuit and trigger transformer.View original page 4Page 5 · Read text
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LIGHT OUTPUT & ENERGY STORAGE
The color temperatur€ of tnJfignt produced by the Stroboflash is approximately
70000 Kelvin which elosely approximates that of natural daylight. Usually no filter
is used with daylight fpe filrq.
In the Stroboflash I, two 250 microfarad capacitors are charged from the 480 volt
battery supply to give 50 watt-seconds (joules) of stored energy per flash with a
recycle time of 3 seconds with fresh batteries and up to six seconds a6 batteries
age. Flash duration is approximately 1/1400 second. In the Stroboflash II, the two
525 microfarad capacitors are charged from the 450 volt battery supply to give 100
watt-seconds of stored energy per flash with a recycle time of three to four seconds
with fresh batterles. Flash duration is 1/1000 second which is high enough to stop
normal action regardless of shutter speed.
- The Stroboflash III and IV use eight 250 microfarad capacitors and the same 450
volt battery supply as the Stroboflash II. Energy storage is 200 watt-seconds with
a recyele time of six.seconds with fresh batteries and up to ten seconds as batteries
age. Flash duration is approximately 1/500 second, - a little less on the IV.
THE STROBOFLASH BATTERIES have been specially designed and built for rugged-
ness and durability. However, a sharp blow especially on the corners may or may
not result in permanent damage. Handle batteries carefully'
An alternate source of power is the rechargeable Graflex Nickel-Cadmium AC "€Converter. See speciai insert sheet at reai. This unit is essentially a specially
designed nickel-cadmium battery (MCAD) with AC converter and built-in battery
charger with cord and plug to reach a 110-120 volt AC outlet.
In use you proceed as though regular dry batteries were being used. Operation
requires only that its 3 way switch be set at Battery. This allows the capacitors
to be charged directly from the battery and will provide sufficient flashes for all
ordinarv use as follows:
Stroboflash II - about 160 flashes, - then recharge
Stroboflash III - about B0 flashes, - then recharge
Stroboflash W, full power, - about 80 flashes, - then recharge
Stroboflash fV, L/4 power, - about 300 flashes, - then recharge
Recharging merely requires that the AC power-charger cord be plugged into any
convenient 110-120 volt outlet. No need to clock the charging time as overtime
rpill do no harm. It takes 12 hours to charge from flat to full charge so overnight
charging will have the unit ready the next morning. Be sure the switch is moved
from Charge to Off or Battery when ready to use. Return the Charger cord to the
lower case section, out of the way.
\Orn: Periodic (4-6 months ) inspection of the battery for possible refilling is of
course needed, otherwise the battery needs no attention. Use distilled water.
AC converter operation (No NICAD battery) requires only a standard extension
cord with good plugs with positive contact, - and of course, access to a 110-120
volt AC outlet, Connect the extension cord to the Charger cord and then plug into
outlet. Set the switch at AC power and you have essentially an AC power Pack. www.orphancameras.com
7,View original page 5Page 6 · Read text
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a\{f,\ OPERATION
- t
To turn the unit on: Simply plugithe power cord into the lamphead, observing
poiffi6y matching red-dots. The unit is now ready. No on/off switch;"oper
is incorporated in the Stroboflash because, by eliminating the swjtch, there is no
chance of the photographer forg*ting to turn the unit off, and it is obvious the unit
is on when the cable is plugged in. The unit may be left on during a shooting se ssion
as there ls so little current drawn from the batteries (approximately 2 Mils*) that no
harm will be done to the batteries. Tests prove when the unit is left on for one hour,
approximately enough energy required for only one flash is drawn from the batteries.
Arcing which will in time damage shutter contacts is eliminated in the Stroboflash
by use of a trigger tube. To test, fire the unit, using a bent paper clip or short
Iength of wire which will fit into the household type A. c. trip socket and short out
the two contacts.. Only a few micro-amps of current flow through the contacts So
there is no sparking or danger of shock.
Conneet ghutter cord to camera contacts and to outlet in lamphead and you are
ttshoot. t'ready to If unit continues to flash by itself when shutter cord is connected,
reverse polarity. (Note: A single flash when shutter cord is connected is normal).
To turn the unit off: Disconnect the power cord from the lamphead. The power
g#AEE Tffittrgged in during a shooting session as there are only a few milliamp-
ere of current drawn from the batteries. However, when the unit is not in use for
extended periods it is advisable to disconnect power cord from lamphe ad to conserve
batterie s.
MOUIV"ING
The lamphead ls equipped with a standard thr'ead tripod socket and may be mounted
on a standard battery case or mounting tube by using a friction fitting rubber flash-
gun adapter #2068 which is supplied with each unit This adapter is also available
in metal #206? utllizing a set screw. A standard "L" bracket #2065 (also supplied
with the unit) may also be used for mounting. This bracket is very adaptable ior
bounce lighting, allowing the lamphead to be raised or lowered vertically.
SYNCHROMZATION
t'OtttJrpeWith cameras having "Xttor shutter contacts, simply use required con-
necting cord from household type A. C. outlet on lamphead to camera shutter con-
tacts, and camera is in sync. Reverse plug on lamphead if unit fires more than
once by itself when connected to camera.
ttx'lCameras not having type shutter contacts may sometimes have them built in
by a competent camera repairman. We do not do this work.
I
*milliampereView original page 6Page 7 · Read text
__
MULTIPLE OPERATION
Two or three.or more .'jlampheads may be used on one stroboflash Power Pack.
Connection is made witfi ZO ft. extension cables #2050. When two or three lamp-
heads are used on one power pack, however, the total light is divided equally
- among the number of flishtubes fired. Be sure to connect in proper sequence,
the power pack cord tolthe extension cord or cords, and then connect the lamp-
heads. The tubes may..flash but without arcing in the circuit. When disconnecting,
simply reverse the precedure, - remove the lampheads first and then disconnect
the extension cords from the povrer pack cord.
SLAVE OPERATION
The stroboflash (power pack with lamphead) will operate as a slave unit by the 3
use of a phototube assembly. This is accomplished by inserting the phototube I
socket #2148 with phototub e #2142 into the trip outlet on the lamphead. Light
fromthemainlightatthecameracauSestheslaveunittof1ashinsJmchroniza-
tion with the main light source.
-4Hdhfta
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I www.orphancameras.comView original page 7Page 9 · Read text
HOW MUCH ENERGY IS STORED FOR EACH FLASH ?
' t '
fresh batteries - Stroboflash I 50 watt-seconds wifh
100 watt- seconds wit-h fresh batterie s - Stroboflash il
200 watt-seconds with fresh batteries - Stroboflash III and IV
.
HOW DO I MOUNT THE LAMPHEAD?
i
A tripod socket is provided on the bottom of the lamphead. For con-
venience, each Stroboflash outfit includes a rubber battery case adapter
ttltt and an b-racket. The battery case adapter permits mounting the
lamphead on the top of a standard battery case such as the Graflite, f fl,rr Graflite, Jr. , etc. The bracket permits use of the lamphead with
those camtras not equipped with a standard battery case.
HOW DO I SYXICHRONIZE IT WITH MY CAMERA ?
rforr ttxtt ("Zero delay) type contacts may be synchro- or Shutters having
nized with all STROBOFLASH. Because of the delay factor, solenoids
do not synchronize properly with electronic flash. Plug the connecting
cord from the carrlera contacts into the two-terminal trip socket in the
polarity of this cord must be observed, so if the unit fires lamphead.
continually without shutter triggering, reverse the plug in the socket.
The upper pin in the socket is grounded.
HOW CAN I FIRE MORE THAN ONE LANIP FROM THE POWER PACK ?
:#-
, Stroboflash 20f extension cords may be used to connect the pdwer pack
to several lamps. The light output will be divided equally between the
lamps. When several larnps are connected to the same power pack,
firing any one of them will fire them all.
HOW DO I CHANGE THE BATTERIES ?
1 - Remove the power plug from the lamphead.
2 - With a coin or screwdriver remove the round head screw and washer
on the ends of the Power Pack-
- lift straight ttp. B - Remove the top hatf of the power pack carefully,
This contains the capacitors, a series resistor, and fuse. On the
Stroboflash I simply pull away the heavy rubber gasket which seals
both halves together.
4 - under normal use and life expectancy, Stroboflash batteries are good for:
* - 1500 flashes - Stroboflash I 1000 ** - Stroboflash II 2000 flashes ** 1000 flashes Stroboflash III **
1000 flashes plus - stroboflash IV account of 4-way selector.
Newbatteriesmavthenbeinsertedintothebo.ttomhalfinplace.oftheold. * 2 to 3 times *"ny1iu"'n"J" a;ilt;Ji-al life expectancyif Battery Booster ""fr is used as directed'
rrAboutdoublethenumberofflashesduringnormallifeexpectancyifBattery
Booster is used as directed' www.orphancameras.com ,ffi,View original page 9Page 10 · Read text
SHOULD SPARE BATTERTES BE STORED?#HOW
Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place, preferably not over ?0o.
WhenStroboflashisterieSarestanduseaSpare
set or use the Battery Booster as directed.
HOW LONG WILL THE FLASHTUBE LAST ?
The tube is guaranteed by the manufacturer -
Stroboflash I 10,000 flashes
Stroboflash II 10, 000 flashes
Stroboflash III 5, 0 00 flashe s
Stroboflash IV 5, 000 flashes plus
HOW ARE SEVERAL UMTS FIRED IN SYNCHROMZATION?
Because of the very low idling current, srRoBoFLAsH make excellent
slave units, where thc unit is to be set up and left unattended. rnsert the ' phototube into the trip socket on the lamphead in place of the connecting
cord from the camera. The tube should point upward to the rear. The
tube may be rotated in the socket so that the concave photosensitive side
faces the triggering light source, which may be any type of flash, synchronizcd
with the camera. An extension cord may be used between the phototube and
lamphead if the proper polarity is observed and tc hide thc stroboflash from
cam era view.
If other photographers are working in the area., and phototubes are not
desirable, the trip sockets of several lampheads can be wired.in parallel
using double or triple plugs. Alr unlts can then be fired from any trip sockct.
WHAT FILTERS ARE RECOMMENDED FOR COLOR?
The ligh from STROBOFLASH closely approximates the color tempcrature
of sunlight; thus daylight film may be exposed without. f ters. For exacting
work, folrow the recommendations of the film manufacturer for exposure with
ele ctroni c flash.
WHAT DO I DO IF THE UNIT DOESN'T FIRE ?
Check the shutter for synchronization and check the trip cord to be sure
good contact is being made. Try tripping the unit by shorting the trip cord
in the lamphead with a short piece of wire. If i,t fires, the trouble is in the
shutter or trip cord.
WHAT DO I DO IF THE UNIT FIRES CONTINUALLY \ryITHOUT TRIGGERING
FROM THE CAMERA?
First, reverse the trip cord in its socket. If this doesntt work, check for -'
a short in the trip cord or shutter contacts.
\View original page 10Page 11 · Read text
-<EE!
wIrAT DO I DO IF I CAN'T FIND TEE TROT'BLE rN EITI{ER CASE ? ,,.
Have your dealer return the unlt prepaid to your nearest Graflex service
Center for servicing
WHAT CUARANTEE DOES THE UNIT CARRY?
we guarantee each new stroboflash sold by us to be free from defects in ' material and workmanship under normal use and service. In accordance
. with long-established practice in the electronic iodustry, our obligation
under this guarantee is limitcd to making good at the factory any part or
parts thereof which shall, within 90 days after making delivery of the
Stroboflash to the original registered purchaser, be returned to us with
transportation charges prepaid, and which our examination shall disclo6e - to our satisfaction to have been thus defective.
ThIs guarantce being expressly ln lieu of all other guarantees, expressed
or implied, and of all other obligations or liabilities on our part, and
we neither assume or authorize any other person to assume for us any
other liability in connection with the sale or use of our equipment.
Ttre guarantee shall not apply to any Stroboflash which shall havc been
repaired or altered in any way so aa, in our judgement, to affe ct its
performance or reliability, nor which has been subject to misuse, negli-
gence, or accident, nor to any Stroboflash which shall have been operated
with lmproper fuse. Graflex, Inc. will not make payments for guarantee
service- performcd by
BATTERY GUARANTEE
Dry batteries used in Stroboflash are high voltage and specially made for Graflex, Inc.
The manufacturer warrants them to be free of defects resulting from workmanship
or quality of materials,
The 240 volt batteries for Stroboflash are warranted therefore for a period of six -
months frorh date of manufacture,
Thre 225 volt batteries for Stroboflash II, III arid fV are equally warranted but for
a 9 months period from date of manufacture.
Our stocks are constantly kept fresh and under controlled temperature until the
moment of packing and shipping. A Iast minute voltage test is made to insure that
we are shipping fully charged stock.
www.orphancameras.comfiView original page 11Page 12 · Read text
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HOW TO SYNCHRONTZF.THE STROBOF''LASH
HOW TO CHECK S TNCHRONIZATION Observe the shutter blades by the
light of the flash. They should
appear wide open during flash. Be sure to check several times and at all usable
shutter speeds.
WHAT ABOUT SHUTTER SPEED ? The highest possible shutter speed
should be used at all times in order
to eliminate the possi.bilities of ghost images due to the room illumination.
OPEN FLASH FOR SPECIAL SHOTS When it is desired to synchronize
the flash with special action (say
the breaking of ari egg) the two trip lead wires can be positioned so that the O
falling object will bring them together momentarily. The room is darkened
somewhat to prevent ghost images, the shutter opened by the photographer, the
flash occurs when the object hits the contacts, and the shutter is closed.
PRECAUTIONS WITH TRIP LEADS If the unit continues to flash by
or flashes every time the
camera is touched, reverse the trip lead conne:li."I'
DO NOTuse soldering pastes or
. any other than rosin core solder
in soldering trip leads. Use only the best grades of insulation and wash all con-
nectors with carbon tetrachloride whenever they become dirty, since even the
smallest amount of leakage current may cause seU triggering.
MULTIPLE SYNCHRONIZATION Stroboflash units may be con-
nected lamp to larnp, bX means
of a trip lead in order to synchronize any number of units. Be sure polarity of
trip leads is observed.
Where other flash units will not
interfere, the accessory phototube will permit perfect synchronization up to
t'seett 200 feet, without connecting trip leads, provided the remote units can
direct or reflected light from the master unit.
SYNCHRONIZATION WITH OTHER TYPES The accessory phototube for
the Stroboflash permits
synchronization with other units. Use the SfROBOFLASH as a "slave unitft
to be triggered by the flash frorh the unit at the camera. This makes an ideal
way to supplement the light from a standard flash lamp on the camera.View original page 12Page 13 · Read text
#
HOW TO SYNCHRONTZE THE STROBOFLASH
TRIGGERING METHOD: The triggering method is completely electronic and ,
since no relays are involved, the flash occurs almost the instant the circuit
is closed. Very small currents flow in the trip circuit (less than 100 mic-
roamperes) permitting the use of delicate built-in shutter contacts without
fear of damage. These contacts must be such that the circuit is closed at the
moment the shutter blades are wide open.
BETWEEN THE LENS SHUTTERS: Most shutters and cameras are noly pro-
vided with contacts for electronic flash and function perfectly with STROBO-
FLASH.
Graphex and Rapax Shutters: With the "X" type, simpty connect the trip lead
from the unit to the two prongs provided on the shutter. Tripping the shutter
will trip the unlt in proper synchronization. If the shutter is of the fully syn-
chronized type providing for use of regular flash bulbs also, be sure the indice- t'Xt'or ItOFFtt) tor is set to the "Ot' (not position.
t'Xt' Kodak Supermatic Shutter: With the type, simply connect the trip lead
to the two prongs provided. If the shutter is of the fully synchronized type,
cock the shutter in the usual fashion but DO NOT COCK THE SYNCHROMZER
PORTION. Watch polarity.
'rX[ Ilex Synchronized Shutter: Set adjuster to red dot or position. Watch polarity. '€i
Custom Built Contacts: Many photographers prefer to have contacts installed in
@trepairmen.Insomecases,delayedactionmerchanisms.j
must be removed to accomplish this. Brush contacts can also be installed on
the lens board in such m anner that the cocking lever will brush a piece of spring "
wire or phosphor bronze at the moment the shutter blades are wide open.
Kalart Synihrostrob: An accessory cable release device that can be adjusted to
operate with most between-the-lens shutters. Manufactured by the Kalart Com-
pany of Stamford, Connecticut.
' STUDI6 SHUTTERS: Packard and Ilexpo shutters can be readily synchronized
with a "home madet'brush contact made of wire or phosphor bronze, or by means
of a type YZ?P.W-4 Microswitch obtainable at electrical or radio supply houses.
FOCAL PLANE SHUTTERS: These shutters must be synchronized at the speed
at which the entire film area is exposed, usually around 1/20 second. With
Graflex cameras, it is usually convenient to set the curtain at "Ott, use the
highest tension and have the rising of the mirror close a contact just before the
curtain is released to close.
www.orphancameras.com10View original page 13Page 14 · Read text
rAA.":::'GET THE MOST FROM YOUR STROBOFLASH BATTERIES ...
The two STROBOFLASH batteries installed in your STROBOFLASH are designed
to give up to the indicated number of flashes under normal use and service.
Stroboflashl 1000-1500
Strobof lash II 20 00
Stroboflash III 1000
Stroboflash IV 1000 plus per use of 4-way selector
Follow these hints and obtain maximum results:
WHERE TO KEEP THEM
Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place, preferably between 40o
and 650 F. Batteries should be given the same care as film and may be
stored in the refrigerator.
DO NOT STORE BATTERIES AT HIGH TEMPERATURES such AS En-
countered in the trunk of an automobile parked in the hot sun.
To do so will result in ceIl deterioration of the batteries and will have
the same effect on them as average actual use.
COLD WEATHER will not injure the batteries but will retard the
sulting in a long recycling time.
This should be kept in mind if you wish to take a series of rapid pic-
.:*a,:a:z:-tures. When the batteries are brought back up to room temperature,
the recycling time will decrease to normal.
FREEZING will irot injure the batteries used in STROBOFLASH but they
must be brought back up to normal temperature for operation. However,
do not place batteries on a heater or radiator for quick thawing.
HOW TO USE THEM
It is normal for batteries which are consumed during the first 4 months
of operation to give more flashes than batteries consumed over a period
of a year.
A LARGE NUMBER OF FLASHES IN A FEW HOURS may increase the
will regain their
ability to release energy after a nightts rest. If this is not convenient,
there are two alternative s:
set of batteries I - Use the t'Rest System. " By this method an extra
must be on hand. By alternating usage the set not in use has time
to build up strength.
I'depolarize'r . 2 - A Battery Booster is available which wiII the batteries
in a few hours to bring them back to normal operation. It may also
be used while the batteries are actually in service.
3 - StroboflashI batteries are rechargeableanclthe Battery Booster will increase
by many times the number of flashes during normal life expectancy.
11View original page 14Page 15 · Read text
THE STROBOFLASH DRY BATTERIES have been speciallv designed and built
for ruggedness and durability. However, a sharp blow especially on the
corners may or may not result in permanent damage. Handle batteries
carefully.
BATTERIES ARE APPROACHING THE END OF THEIR USEFUL LIFE
when, after a rest, the shortest time in which two consecutive flashes
may be made exceeds five seconds (Stroboflash II) or ten seconds
(Stroboflash IV). When this is evident, batteries should be replaced to
insure dependableservice.
TO GET NEW BATTERIES IN A HURRY
.,"*.€
SEE YOUR GRAFLEX DEALER, or . . ,
u
Simply send check or money order in the correct amount to the neares,
Service Center listed below for each 225 -volt or 240-volt battery desired. ',
:: Your order will be mailed to you promptly via PARCEL POST.
WHEN NEW BATTERIES ARE RECEMD, inspect them carefully for
possible physical damage from shipment such as dents, bulges, etc, I
If batteries appear to be damaged check them at once in a Stroboflash
or with a Battery Analyzer. If they do not operate properly, enter a ,;
claim first. then notify your source immediately. Gd --*' .. ,.'1* 14* -" !,*gAtrrRY GuAnANtrr
'
. The STROBOFLASH HIGH-VOLTAGE DRY BATTERY is guaranteed by
the battery manufacturer to be free of defects resulting from workman-
- ship or quality of materials. r,
GRAFLEX SERVICE CENTERS FOR HANDLING STROBOFLASH are Iocated at:
GRAFLEX, INC.
89 Allen Street
Rochester 8, New York
GRAFLEX, INC. GRAFLEX, INC.
800 No. Cole Ave., P.O. Box 38606 Suite 922, 50 Rockefeller Plaza
Hollywood38, California New York 20, New York
GRAFLEX of CanadaLimited GRAFLEX. INC.
13? Wellington St., West 320 West Ohio St.
Toronto 1, Ontario, Canada Chicago 10, trlinois
e/56 Printed in U.S.A.
t2
www.orphancameras.comView original page 15Page 16 · Read text
NEWSTROBOFTASHIV WIIH ..4.WAY EXCTUSIVE POWERSETEOOR
Justsel the diol for nominol50,
100,150,2@wolf-secondsoutPut
Here for the first time is a Portable
electronicflash unit that can be used
for ar'y photographic assignment.A
flick of the convehientcontrol switch
gives V4, Y2, 3k ot fu.ll Power outPut
. . . tnC instant selection-of the right
light for perfect pictures.This exclu-
sii. FULL RANGE LIGHT CON-
TROL lets the user select the light
output to professionalaccuracy.Take
cloie-upswith fast film or long shots
with color film vary exPosure
vented from discharging.Besidescon-
servingbatteryPower,this featurealso
permits faster recyclingtime between
hashes.The 50 watt-secondsettinghas
a recycling time of approximately 2
seconds.The 100 watt setting-aP-
proximately 3 seconds; 150 watt
setting-approximately5 seconds;and
the 2OOwatt setting recyclesat ap-
proximately6 seconds.User must allow
2 to 3 secondsafter dischargebefore
changingswitch position.
The new StroboflashIV is comPlete-
ly interchangeablewith the cords,
plugs, lampheads,and other accessories
bf StroboflishI, II, and III and retains
all their many importantfeatures
extra rapid ricycling . . . efficientre- 1 / 4 / 7 2 71 full flectorwith exceptionally-trigger uniform light SelectorSetting % distributibn . . tube triggering Nominal Watt-second t0 1 0 0 1 t 0 200
for your personal protection, protec- EffectiveCandle
tion of your shutter, and maximum Power Seconds
slavesensitivity. . . simple,economical Flashduration (Approx.)
slaveaccessory. no wet batteriesto Rechargingtime (Approx.)
recharge no corrosiveliquids . . . GuideNumbers:bos€d on
operatesin the heatof the desertor the Color-ASA 32
cold of the arctic . . . Stroboflashcan B & \7-ASA 2OO
be left on for hours,readyfor instant Equipment: Lamphead, power pack with 10'Koiled Kord, L-bracket and actionu'ithor-rtappreciableloss of bat- rubber battery caseadaPter.
tery Power.
NOTE GRAFLEX,lNC. III. EXCEPTAS SPECI- STROBOFLASHIV REPTACESSTROBOFTASH ROCHESTER8, N. Y., U. S. A.
New York Bronch Sqles qnd Service Ofiices FICALTY RETATEDON THIS PAGE, FOR USING THE 4-WAY
50 Rockefetler Plozo, Svile 922, New York 20, New York SEIECTOR,.THE ATTACHEDINSTRUCTIONSFOR STROBOFTASHIII
Wesfern Division, Sqles qnd Service REMAIN UNCHANGED. 800 North Cole Avenue, Hollywood 38, Colifornio
Midwest Division, Sqles qnd Service
320 West Ohio Slreel, Chicogo I O, lllinois
LZaView original page 16Page 17 · Read text
EXPOSITREAND DEVELOPMENT WITH YOUR STROBOFLASH
WHY WATT SECONDS ? This is a question very frequently asked by the
photographer. . . Watt seconds is a method of measuring electrical energy
stored in the condensers. It does not necessarily provide you with a number
by which you can determine exposure. This is due to the difference in the
duration of the flash in high and low voltage units. For instance, the Strob III
using alternating house current (rather than batteries) is a 200 watt second
unit, with a flash duration of L15,000 of a second, which is much faster than
the 1/1,000 of a second flash duration of a battery powered Stroboflash II,
(with 100 watt second energy) yet both give about the same amount of usable
light.
ELECTRONIC FLASH IS DIFFERENT from any other commonly used photo-
graphic light source. Therefore, before you can use this fight successfully,
you must be aware of the properties which make this light di.fferent, and those
which make it react diversely to photographic emulsions.
The most obvious difference is its short duration. The extremely short flash
(varying from L1L0,000to tlL,000 of a second) produces a number of unusual
effects on the film.
FILMS REACT DIFF ERENTLY and will produce a somewhat thinner or denser
negative than one would expect. For example: At an exposure time of 1/50
of a second Superpan Press is more than a full stop faster than Isopan. When -
the exposure time is greatly reduced to let us say 1/3,000 of a second, the
. speed of both films are practically identical. With electronic flash, Super
Panchro Press Type B produces a denser negative than Tri-X Pan although the
daylight ASA ratings for the two films are 125 and 200 respectively.
EXIENDED DEVELOPMENT IS USUALLY PREFERRED, due to the fact that
short duration flash tends to produce soft negatives. An increase of from 25y'0
/ to LOO%above the normal time usually provides the desired amount of contrast
for most usere. Of courae, an energetic developer guch as Strob-X is pre-li ferred when the utmost in film speed is desired.
TO DETERMINE PROPER f/STOP SETTING for any photograph it is necessary
to accurately determine the arnount of light reflected by the subject. When work-
ing out of doors using daylight, or indoors using flood, for a given source of
illumination the amount of reflected light can readily be determined with an ex-
posure meter or a calculator. With flash this becomes very difficult because
of the extremely short duration.
When using a STROBOFLASH the photographer knows that the unit will give the
same amount of light every time it is fired. It therefore becomes reasonably
simple to determine the amount. of light which is reflected from the subject, if
the lamp-to-subject distance is knownr The method for determining correct
expoaure is known as the guide number system.
13
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EXPOSURE AND DEVELOPMENT WITH YOUR STROBOFLASII
SURROUNDINGS GOVERN EXPOSURE and have an important effect on the
amount of light reaching the subiect. If the exposure is made in a medium
sized room with light colored walls and ceiling, the photographer gains from
the light which is reflected back on the subject. If a much larger room is
used much of the reflected light is lost by scattering, and to obtain the same
exposure it becomes necessary to increase the aperture. When the photo is ' made outdoors at night where there is little reflectance and much absorption,
at least two more full stops are necessary for good exposure.
DEVELOPMENT TECHNIQUE IMPORTANT TO CONSISTENT RESULTS -
Development varies greatly from gne photographer to another. There are
a great many things that will vary in the procdssing of a negative. There
are different types of developers which produce varied effects. The time,
temperature, means and frequency of agitation, - all must be standardized
to produce consistent quality in any negative.
WHEN TWO LIGHTS are added to the seme power supply the power or light
output is divided between the two lamps. If the second light does not fall
upon the same area of the subject, or if one light is used for a modeling
Iight, the light which is closest to the subject determines the exposure.
Therefore, the guide nuinber will fall off one full f/stop. lf the guide number
with one light is 22O, tlne number when two lights are used would drop to 160.
THE COLOR TEMPERATTIRE of commonly used electronic flash tubes is
identical, as the spectral quality of the gas is the same. They produce
:it'n": light which has color temperature of ?,000 degrees Kelvin. This approxi-
mates the color temperature for which daylight color films are balanced
(5900 degrees Kelvin). In most cases it is not necessary to use a filter with
Daylight color films although a few photographers who prefer slightly warmer
tones may use a filter such as the Wratten 81C, Ansco UV-16, or Harrison
c-L14.
13aView original page 18Page 19 · Read text
- Each photographer"PERSONAL,' GUIDE NUMBERS MUST BE ESTABLISHED
must establish his OWN GUIDE NUMBERS bymaking testE with his own equipment,
his own processing procedure - to find the type of negative he prefers'
- A guide number is a very important figu.re, whichGITIDE NUMBER EXPLAINED
when diriiiled by the lamp-to-subiect distance (in feet) will giv-ethe correct f / stop'
If the proper f/stop is known (as in sJmchro- sunlight) the f/stop may be divided into
the guide nqmber to'find the proper tamp-to-subject distance'
WHAT GUIDE NIIMBER SHOULD I USE? - It is possible to find YouR correct
guide number with your STROBOFLASH by dxperimenting wlth your equipment
ind your processing technique. By making a number of exposures and develop-
ing riegatives to produce the type of negative you prefer, you can easily find the
f/itop-*fricft produced the best exposure. By multiplying this f/stop by the distance
in feet from lamp to subject you can determine your correct guide number. Let us
assume that ttre best ne gative with a given film was produced at f/11 and all the
pictures were made with ttre STRoBoFLASH twenty feet from the subject. By mul-
iiptyi.tg the two numbers (11x20 - 2201we find that our guide number is 220.
We use thi6 guide number to ascertain the correct exposure at any l:s1p-1o- subje ct
distance. If we wanted to make a picture at ten feet, we would divide ten into the
guide number 220 and the answer would be the correct IlstoP (22O divided by 10 :
f 1221.
APPRO)CMATE GIIIDE NUMBERS are given so the photographer has a basis from
which to develop HIs owN GUIDE NUMBER, FOR HIS OWN USE. On the next page
are shown guide numbers based upon the ASA daylight rating of various films and
the Effective candle Power seconds rating of each model stroboflash. Again we
emphasize, that these are suggested guide numbers as only you can determine the
type of negative You want.
MANUFACTURER CANNOT SUPPLY COMPLETELY ACCURATE GUIDE NI'MBERS
for their equipment because of the greatly varied techniques of photographers. some
of the things which must be taken into consideration are:
FILMS VARY AS MUCH AS A FULL STOP. . . B1ACKANd \trhitc
emulsions may vary from their rated speed as much as a full
f /stop, and with color, a haU stop from one emulsion batch to
another. The speed of the film decreases as it ages, and this
may become apparent before the expiration date on the package
if the film is improperly stored.
L4
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r . t . , i F , , , : . . : { . { : r . 1
EXPOSURE
Strob lighting is different from conventional lighting in that the" flash duration is
shorter than most shutter speeds. This eliminates the problem. of selecting the
proper shutter speed for many shots. For best results the photographer should
run tests to aequaint himself with this type of lighting.
DEVELOPMENT
To obtain negatlves of noimal contrast, about 50% longer development than usual ttforcedt' is recommended. This is not development but is necessitated by the
action of very short expoeures on film emulsions. Again, the user wiII eventually
eet HIS OWN STANDARDS depending upon contrast and negative quality preferred.
MOISTURE PROBLEMS
It is a good practice to moieture-proof the highly sensitive trip circuit of your
Stroboflash every 3 - 4 months (depending upon severity of use). This should be
done to eliminete any erratic flishing of the Stroboflash which may occur when it
is used under extremely high hurr:idity conditions or when the unit is taken into a
warm place after being out in the cold" To moisture-proof the trlp circuit, first
clean the following areas with carbon tetrachloride (CAUTION: DO NOT INHALE
FITMES) and then apply a thin coat of Dow Corning #4 Silicone Compound to the
following insulating areasf
(1) Surface of outlet on lamphead
' CAUTION: Do not apply sllicone.to socket holes or any
surface which must make electffif contact
to another surface such as plug pins, prongs
or posts on shutter, etc.
(2) Male and female end of shutter cord plug
(3) Plugs on power cord and extension cords
(4) Surfaces adjacent to camera shutter cord connector
when the unit will constantly be used under extreme humidity or moisture condi-
tions, it ig recommended that the lamphead housing be rernoved and the following
places treated.
(1) Wafer base of flash tube. (both sides)
(2'l Trigger tube socket. (both sides)
(3) Under portion of trip socket.
(4) Back end of 4-prong plug.
Silieone compound is available in 1 ounce tubes under catalog #2L75.
15View original page 20Page 22 · Read text
N I CAD A.C CO NVE R.TER.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR U5E
DESCRIPTION
The Groflex Nicqd A-C Converterserves3 pu.poses:
A. h iniludes provisionfor chorging the copocilorsin the Power Top from on A-C 110-120 volt power suppry.
B. lt hq5 provisionfor chorging the copocilors in the Power Top from o relf-contoined,optionolly qvqilqble, nickel
cqdmium3-cell 4-volt bottery.
C. lt contoinso built-in bottery chorger for chorging the nickel cqdmiumbottery ds need€d.
The Nicod A-C Converteroccupiesthe some spcce qs fwo 225-volt Strobotloshdry botteriesotherwiseuied. lt is
self-contoinedin o sheet sleel housingond interchongeswith the dry bofte.ieswith eose.
lf you purchoreyour Strobofloshwith o Nicqd A-C Converterinstolled,the block Boltoronbotte.y cose with shoulder
strop will hove been modified for the 3-woy switch. lf you ore substitulingfor the 225-volt dry botteriesin your own
unif, the lop front edge of the bottery cose must be nofched for lhe switch qnd lhe plote ottqched to the foce of ihe
cose' This plote with screwsqnd mounling instructions,Cot, No. 2109, ir furnishedwith the Nicqd A-C Converter.
INSTATTATION
Removethe Stroboflqih Power Pock Top ond dry botteriesffom the lower block bottery cose. Insert the Nicod A-C
Converterinto it with the switchextendingover the edge of the cose ond switchplote. lf the unit is to be bqttery-operqted.
rhe A-C cord should be tucked into the end of the bottery cose, lt will be {ound eosier to slip the plug into the cosc
before insertingthe converfef.The rest of lhe cord con then be tucked in eosily. Replocelhe Power Pock Top.
CAUIION: BE SURElo observe proper orienlotion of the Power Pock Koiled Kord os indicoted on the cover of ihe
Nicod A-C Converter.lf the PowerTop is not properly plugged in, the Nicod A-C Converterpower output will be shorted,
resultingin dqmoge lo inlernol componenl!.
To removethe converler,iurt invert the botiery cose, so thql the converterwill slip out. Note thot the nickel codmium
bottery is 5pill proof.
swrTcH
To move the switch lever from one position to onother, push in slightly on the metql switch plote on the block bottery
cose. This will disengoge the lever, ollowing it to be shifted eosily. When the unit is not in use, the switch should be
returned io the neutrot (verticol) position.
1 7View original page 22Page 23 · Read text
.q<l xl
BATTERYOPERATION
With the switchqt "Bottery," o fully chorged botlery will provide the qpproximotenumber of floshesshown herewiih.
Flqshes-Slroboflqshll-obouf 160
Strobofloshlll-obout 80
StrobofloshlV-obout 80 full power-more ot oiher positionsof selecior. .
NOIE-thdt the switch should not be left in the "Bqttery" position if lhe unit is aot octuolly being used, since the
vibrotorwill cqusesomedroin on the bottery,therebyreducinEthe totol numberof floshesobloinoble,
d Recycling-Stroboflosh ll obout 8 sec.
StrobofloshlV-Vr obout 4 sec.
StrobofloshlV-Y2 oboul 8 sec.
StrobofloshlV-3lr obout l2 sec.
Stroboflqshlv-full obout 15 3ec.
Rechorging-Plugthe A-C Chorger cord into ll0-120 volt outlei. A fully dischorgedbottery cdn be fully rechorged
in opproximotely l2 hours. The botiery will not be domoged by extended chcrging beyond thot time. The buili-in
bqttery chqrger drow5 only 4 wott5. 1
A-C OPER,ATIONWITH BAfiERY
Removethe A-C Power Cord frorn the boltery cose ond plug it into the ll0-120 volt 60 cycle outlet dnd turn the
iwitch to the A-C Chorge poiition. Thi3 will keep ihe copocitorsin lhe Power Top chorged ond will qt fhe some time
chqrge the nickel codmiumbottery. Recyclingtime is lhe iome oi lhot given obove for bottery operotion.
A.C OPERATION-NO BATTERY
It is possibleto use the Nicod A-C Converteros merelyon A-C Power supply withoul the nickel codmiumbottery. lf lhe
bottery is to be removed, disconneclthe ll0 volt power cord from woll outlet ond remove lhe 4 screws holding
the top plqte of lhe converler in ploce. Lift the top pldte off. Disconnectond tope seporotelythe iwo bqttery leods
(1 red qnd 1 whifel. Loorenfhe screw holding the bottery retoining slrop to lhe end of the converterond removethe
nickelcodmiumbqttery,Replocethe lop coverond holding screws.
*r" ,* When reinstqllingthe nickel codmiumboftery, ottoch the red wire lo the sepqrote positive{f} terminol in the corner
of the metol Conveder housing ond qttoch the white wire lo the seporote negotive (-l terminol (over the number
W-l57781 ond secure in ploce with nut. Tighten lhe screw holding the boftery slrop qnd refit the top cover with the
4 holding screws.
NICKETCADMIUM 4.VOLT BATTEN.Y
The nickel codmiumboltery is q wet cell fype, but io ieoled thot lhere is no leokoge. Every4-6 monthi, checkihe liquid
level of the 3 cells through the holes provided in the side qnd corner of the converterhousingond fill with distilled
woter qs needed. Only o few drops moy be needed to bring the level up lo the index line on the iide of the bottery.
',{,+ Fill only ofter the bottery hos been fully chorged.When replocingthe cqp screws,removedfor filling, be sure thol lhese
qre lurned down TIGHTIY,to prevenl leokoge ond to insure proper operotion of lhe pressureseolswhich ore q port
of the cop screws,The bottery does nol gos on dischorge ond hos no noxious or corrosiveodors. According to the
t, monufqclurer,the botlery will not be domoged by overchorging,qlthough it will require more ftequent oddition of
distilledwoter. 05 o resultof such exlended chorging. A smoll omount of gos moy be generoled ot thot time, but it is
qutomoticollyvented by lhe pressureseols,Any white residuewhich moy oppeor on the top of the boltery is hormless
(non-corrosive)sodium corbonote, which moy be brurhed or woshed owoy. The bottery moy be stored fully, or
portiolly chorged, or completelydischorgedwithout horm. lt will chorge or dischorge ot high or low temperotures,
thereby in5uring good performonce of the Strobofosh under exlreme conditions.NOTE A new boltery should be put on
chorge for o few hours before putting into use. /
sPECrArTNSTRUCflONS I
Do not remove lhe Power Pock Top from the Nicod A-C Converferwhen the Koiled Power Kord it plugged into the
lomp heod ossembly.
To ovoid scrdtchingthe end of the Nicod Conve.ter,ploce strips of block ScotchTope or similor moteriql over lhe
stoplesqt the end of the block bqltery cqre, Apply o similor strip oyer the screwsor rivets holding the switch plqte.
GRAFtEX, lNC.
ROCHESTER8, N. Y.
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