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View Full Version : Old Sunpak Auto 2000 Flash not adjusting

k4show
18th of March 2009 (Wed), 17:55
No matter what I set the flash exp. comp as my pics look the same, is it just because its an old flash unit? I am looking into buying a new flash unit in the future.
msowsun
18th of March 2009 (Wed), 18:27
No, it is probably because you are not using the flash correctly. Flash Exposure Compensation only works with ETTL flashes.

With this old flash you must use your camera in Manual Mode only.

On this flash I think you can select your brand of camera. This is very limited form of "dedication". It might automatically set your shutter to 1/60 and maybe show a flash ready icon. Or it might not do anything.

You should set about 1/125 shutter speed. Then set the ISO and f/stop on the flash to match the ISO and f/stop on your camera. You usually have 2-3 options for f/stop Auto Range. In the "OFF" position I believe the flash will fire at full power.

I have never used this flash but theses older "Auto Thyristor" flashes generally all work the same way.

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y17/msowsun/photo%20stuff/Newer/Sunpak2000PZ.jpg
k4show
18th of March 2009 (Wed), 18:55
Is there any way to adjust the power of the flash so it acts as a fill? Thanks. I was shooting in Av. What does the slider in the bottom right hand corner do? I tried figuring it out, but to no prevail.
msowsun
18th of March 2009 (Wed), 19:05
The slider in the bottom right hand corner is used to set your brand of camera. But like I said it only offers very limited use.

To use the flash for "Fill" you can try setting it up as per normal use but then set the flash f/stop maybe 1 stop less than you have set for the camera.

Example: Your camera meter says you need ISO 400 1/125 f/8 for a properly exposed outdoor photo. You can set the flash to ISO 400 f/5.6

When the flash fires the Auto Thyristor will shut off the flash as soon as it's sensor sees enough light for 5.6

That should add just a little Fill Flash without overpowering the scene.

Try it and let us know how it works out.
k4show
18th of March 2009 (Wed), 19:12
You would still shoot at F/8 though right?
msowsun
18th of March 2009 (Wed), 19:20
Yes, If that is what the camera meter says.