Minolta MF FAQ: Flashes
4.1 The Range
The Minolta flash range consisted of at least the following models:
- Electroflash: Electroflash (external link), 20 - launched for the SRT body range
- Auto Electroflash: 25, 32, 128, 320, 450 (external link)
- Auto Electroflash with X-sync: 30FX, 118x, 132X, 200x, 220x, 320x
Models 128, 118x, 320 and 320x offered a bounce head.
These flashes featured an extra contact on the shoe which set the correct sync speed on suitably equipped bodies (XG- XD- onwards).
- Auto Electroflash PX: 80PX, 132PX, 280PX, 360PX (external links)
Designed for X- series bodies, specifically the X-570 & X-700 SLRs, PX series flashes set the camera to X-sync speed and offered TTL flash metering. All but the 80PX could also be used with the CLE rangefinder, both on- and off-camera, with TTL metering.
Some models have bounce / tilt heads and multiple output power.
4.2 Features of the -PX series
| Specific features of the -PX series |
|---|
| Model | Type | GN at
100ASA in m | Bounce
? | Swivel
? | Thyristor
? | Variable
power ? |
|---|
| 80PX | ringflash | 8 | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| 132PX | normal | 32 | Yes | No | No | ? |
| 280PX | normal | 28 | No | No | Yes | 2 |
| 360PX | normal | 36 | Yes | Yes | Yes | 9 |
4.3 Filter Sets
Both 280PX and 360PX could use simple clip-on wide angle diffuser panels to broaded their coverage when in use with wide angle lenses down to 28mm. Additionally, models 360X and 360PX were capable of taking an optional filter panel set. The kit consists of the following [Stephen D'Arcy-Evans]:
4.4 AC Adaptors
A pair of AC Adaptors, 4 and 5, were available for powering certain flashes in the range from AC outlets. Note that use of these was not possible in combination with the Powergrip II. The following is taken from the operating "manual" of one of these adaptors [Mike Nobbs (viking01&64#globalnet.co.uk
)].
AC Adaptor 5
...for use with Minolta Auto Electroflash 360PX, 320X, 320 or Macro 80PX.
[Photo here showing lead plugging into the 3-pin connector above the hot shoe on the front of the flash.]
AC Adaptor 5 connects Auto Electroflash 360PX, 320X, 320 or Macro 80PX to an alternating current power supply to provide virtually unlimited number of flashes and consistent recycle times.
OPERATION
- Turn flash off.
- With cord pointing to right, insert rectangular plug completely into flash's external power input.
ø Do not force or reverse plug; it fits in only one way.
- Plug adaptor into nominal 230V (50/60Hz) power outlet. Acceptable range is 198 to 264V [obviously this differed for other markets].
CAUTION: Never connect adaptor to outlet of higer voltage than indicated, sice doing so may damage adaptor and/or flash and result in personal injury.
ø If adaptor is connected to outlet of lower voltage than indicated, current will be insufficient for normal operation of flash.
- Turn power switch on to charge flash. Furthur operation is the same as with batteries.
CAUTION: Never insert metal objects into rectangular plug when adaptor is connected to power outlet.
Recycle Times*
360PX: approx. 12 seconds
320X, 320: approx. 9 seconds
Macro 80PX: approx. 7 seconds
* at designated nominal voltage when flash fired at full power and range, as determined by standard Minolta test method; recycle times may vary with actual range and flash usage.
Notes:
Significantly reduced recycle times than those listed above are possible when combining 280PX or 360PX with the PowerGrip II, which uses 6 AA batteries or a dedicated NiCad pack to produce 9v DC instead of the 7v at 30mA this adaptor produces.
Although the 280PX has the same 3-pin power connector as the 360/360X/360PX, there is no mention of the ability to use these AC adaptors with the 280PX.
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