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Apollo video lights.
E/O cords offer great advantages in flexibility; however, they require
some minor attention to ensure reliable service. Over time the rubberized
connectors may loosen and weaken the connection. The problem is easily
solved by placing the connector on a hard surface and firmly tapping it
with a rubber mallet. This action will tighten the connector and prevent
a sloppy connection. Another problem that might occur is a slight
oxidation on the connector tip after several dives in salt water. A light
sanding with extra fine sand paper will remove any oxidation and ensure
a good connection.
When used with a halogen bulb, an improper E/O connection will cause
the light to flicker. With an HID lamp, an improper connection will the
interrupt current, resulting in a loss of light. The effect is the same as if
you had turned the light off with the switch: the ballast must reset itself
and the bulb cool before restriking. If your light should go off because of
a loose E/O connection, re-seat the connection, turn the switch to the off
position, and wait ten to twenty seconds before restriking the lamp.
Disconnecting the E/O cords by pulling at an angle instead of straight
out can also damage the connectors. Bent connectors cannot be reliably
repaired.
Use of E/O cords in salt water requires extra consideration for
maintenance. Make sure to rinse and dry E/O connectors after each salt
water dive, as the connections will corrode and degrade performance
over time. Most professional photographers and explorers recommend
scheduled maintenance replacement after every two years if the
connectors are constantly exposed to salt water.
Explorer/Apollo NiMH Frequently Asked Questions
What are the number of charge/discharge cycles I can expect from NiMH
batteries?
Under normal conditions you can expect anywhere from 800 - 1000
charge/discharge cycles from your NiMH batteries. Cycle life is
dependent upon usage conditions. Severe over-discharge of your NiMH
can shorten the lifespan of your pack. Over-discharge is difficult with the
18, 50 and 200 watt HID lights; these lights have a regulated ballast that
will terminate light output as the voltage reaches the lower part of the
operational spectrum. Using either a 10 watt HID (which operates with an
unregulated ballast) or a halogen lamp, you should shut down your light
when the light begins to dim, but before you run the pack to complete
discharge (a minimum of 10 volts).
Summary of Contents for Explorer
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