Ikelite 100a - any use on a DSLR?

[String 17]

I've been offered an ikelite 100a strobe (cost nothing). Ive just bought an EOS 450D and Ikelite housing.

 

Is there any way at all this strobe can be used with that setup if not in TTL but in a manual mode (with cable?) or is it likely to be of no use at all in any mode?

 

This is no cost to me but obviously if its no use at all either then there's no point in taking it.

[PRC 2]

I don't know that specific strobe but as long as you are in manual you can use it.

 

The only concern that I would have is that if it is really old (stone age) it may have a trigger voltage > 5V which could trash the camera.

 

If you search on google 'camera strobe trigger voltage test" or similar you will get info.

 

The only other thing to get around is some way of dialling the output down - if it has such a feature built in then you are home and dry, if not then you will need to adjust by strobe positioning and maybe covering the front with parts of your hand which is sometimes not convenient!

 

 

Sorry I can't help more - I don't know the specific strobe.

Paul C

[saga7 6]

Hi-i use a ikelite AI strobe which is the previous name for the 100a strobe. You have to shoot manual so the hotflash triggers the strobe. I have used a pentax k100 camera and a nikon d40x camera with great results. Use 1/2 power on strobe for shots to 4 feet. Beyond full power. I have done 5 trips with these setting and am very happy with results. It works the best for close focus shots and fish and macro. Most of my shots are 4 feet and closer. Automatic or Priority modes do not work. Has to be manual on camera for the strobe to trigger.

My settings are

nikon d40x RAW, Vivid color(emphasizes the yellows and reds), speed 100, asa 100, f stop in clear water sunny days f/13- cloudy days f11 and f11 for night. These settings you will get lots of depth of field with vivid colors.