Esprit Digital Operating Instructions
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3
WARNINGS & FAULT FINDING
If the unit appears to have developed a fault, first establish that it is a genuine internal fault and
not a case of normal operation such as overheat. Carry out the following checks to eliminate any
external causes. If no obvious problem can be found and replacement of the modelling lamp,
flash tube or fuse does not effect a cure then it is likely that an internal fault has developed.
Always return the unit to an authorised service centre if a fault is suspected after these checks.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU ATTEMPT ANY REPAIR yourself.
MIS-FIRE Warning
If the unit receives a trigger signal from any of the valid sources (TEST, IR REMOTE, IR
TRIGGER, SYNC) but fails to flash for any reason then the display will flash continuously and the
sounder will beep (if on). Press any button, apart from TEST, to stop this alarm. Increase the
power setting to maximum and use the TEST button to try and flash again. If the problem
continues to happen on more than the odd occasion, particularly at lower power settings, then it is
likely that the tube is wearing out. Before replacing the tube, check that the trigger wire is
correctly connected and is not shorted to or in close proximity to the metal reflector. If the unit
fails to flash at all then check the flash tube for signs of damage or overheating.
If the unit fails to flash and the display warning is not given then the Sync. lead and/or camera
should be suspected. If possible check these with another flash system. Check the polarity of the
Sync. from the camera and use an adapter to reverse it if necessary. The ESPRIT DIGITAL
supplies a SYNC. voltage of +14V with respect to the chassis Ground.
OVERHEAT Warning
The unit is fitted with overheat protection that turns the modelling lamp off and inhibits charging
until the unit has cooled sufficiently. The display flashes ‘OH’ while the overheat condition exists.
An audible warning is not given since this may last for some time. Overheat will normally only
occur if the unit is flashed repeatedly at a fast repetition rate. Slowing down the repetition rate will
normally help keep the unit out of overheat. Dimming the modelling lamp or turning it off may also
help.
NOTE: The controls are inhibited during overheat to prevent inadvertent changes being made. If
the lamp was on before the OH condition existed then the lamp display will show it as being
temporarily switched off.
The Control Panel Does Not Light
If the control panel does not light when the unit is switched on then first check that the AC power
supply to the unit is OK. Under exceptional conditions of use the fuse may blow. This is normal
and is designed to protect the unit. Confirm that the fuse is intact and if in doubt replace. A spare
fuse is fitted in the fuse holder, always replace with a fuse of the correct type and rating.
If the fuse blows immediately the unit is switched on remove the modelling lamp, replace the fuse
and try again. If the fuse blows again there is an internal fault.
The Control Panel Lights but Does Not come To ‘READY’
If this happens then first confirm that the AC power supply is adequate and within the prescribed
limits. Try switching the unit off, wait a minute, and then switch on again.
The Modelling Lamp Does Not Light.
Check the fuse and the modelling lamp itself. Replace as required.
GENERAL
Welcome to the world-wide family of Bowens flash equipment users, and congratulations on
selecting the Esprit Digital. This has been designed using the latest technology to produce a unit
that is simple to operate, yet has a powerful, highly controllable and accurate output. It is
intended for studio use by professional photographers and should not be used for any other
purpose. Please familiarise yourself with these instructions before operating the unit.
SAFETY NOTES
•
The Esprit Digital must not be used in an environment where moisture or flammable vapour
is likely to come in contact with the unit.
•
A fire hazard exists if flammable materials are placed in close proximity to either the flash
tube or modelling bulb when the unit is in use.
•
When moving the unit from extremes of temperature and humidity, allow at least one hour
for the unit to stabilise at room temperature before connecting it to the supply.
•
Do not restrict air vents while in use.
•
The reflector and front end of the unit can become Very Hot. Care should be exercised when
handling equipment that has been in use.
•
Switch off and disconnect from the supply before changing fuse, modelling bulb or flash
tube.
•
A 10A (T) 20mm fuse mounted on the rear panel (Fig.1) protects the charging and modelling
circuitry of the unit. Disconnect from the supply before changing the fuse. Never replace with
a fuse of a different type or rating. A spare 10A (T) fuse is fitted in the fuse holder.
•
Only connect the unit to a 3-wire, earthed (grounded), supply with an AC Line voltage within
the range 95V to 130V with a nominal frequency of either 50Hz or 60Hz. Unregulated or
poorly regulated generators should not be used.
•
Avoid placing cables where they can be tripped over. Protect from heavy, sharp or hot
objects, which may cause damage and replace damaged cables immediately.
•
Never use a unit with damaged covers, mouldings, flash tube or modelling bulb. If the unit is
dropped or damaged in any way always have it checked out before using.
•
Due to the high voltage and high energy used in the Esprit Digital, an authorised Service
Centre must carry out all servicing.
CONTENTS OF CARTON
•
Esprit Digital with flash tube
•
Sync.
cord
•
Instructions
•
Safety
Leaflet
Additional items may be supplied for use in specific countries.