Flash focus assist beam use question

[mneuwieuyagaobcf]

I've got a 430EX flash on my 350D camera. I was wondering if it is possible to use the focus assist beam on the flash without the flash firing?

[davidfig]

Nope. If you are talking about the pre-flash. All canon cameras do it and you cannot turn them off.

[Curtis N]

Custom function 7-1 on the 20D will prevent the flash from firing. I don't know if the RebelXT has this function.

[TheSteveMadden]

Nope, the XT doesn't do this. C.Fn 7 on the 350D is mirror lockup. The 580 has this control on the flash for those who want the functionality with the 350D.

[mneuwieuyagaobcf]

Ah no worries. I think i will just set flash strength to 1/64 and fire the flash into my head to use the focus beam without flash.