DS-125 TTL-upgrade for old serial number

Hi!

I've just bought a DS-125 via ebay a few days ago and the seller mentioned the serial number in the auction. At first I didn't give it a thought but now I read on the Ikelite homepage that some models (between serial 2500-4999) need updates to fully use TTL with the Ikelite housing for the 20D (http://www.ikelite.com/web_pages/uttlssnreq2.html). I had no idea that there are different types of DS-125 but mine is of course one of those that apparently need the update (serial 2883). Does anybody have an idea what kind of update this is and if it's really necessary?

Is it just TTL that won't work and can I use the strobe in manual mode? Or will it not work at all?

Another question: Ikelite told me that this update can only be done in the US and this of course adds shipping costs. They charge 100USD and take 4 weeks. Adding the time for shipping to and from the US this means about 8 weeks (since I'm located in the EU)

Does anybody know of a company/dealer that does this upgrade in Europe? Preferrably Austria or Germany?

Thanks for any help!

Regards,

Georg

The update is to change the circuitry inside the strobe that controls TTL. Without the update, TTL doesn't work.

As long as you use a digital sync cord, you should be able to use the strobe in manual mode without issue.

Nobody can make the upgrade except Ikelite. You have no choice other than to send it to them if you want it upgraded.

it would be nice if Ikelite started a European service center, but they like to see their own stuff, and dont do remote "diagnosis" as well.

I think the 4 weeks they mention are on the safe site. You (and they can send express (DHL) and then it will probably be just 5 - 5,5 weeks with all shipping but probably shorter. DHL shipping is much cheaper when they send it back from the usa to me then the other way around (I am in the Netherlands).

I dont know if the update is also required for the inhousing manual control, but then the DS125 does have enough power settings.

Gerard

You could also shoot manual through this season and update during winter.

Is it just TTL that won't work and can I use the strobe in manual mode? Or will it not work at all?

I shoot my "old" 2K serial number DS-125 with a D2X on manual without a problem.

The upgrade is for TTL converter compatability (not available for my camera anyway <_< ... Ikelite !!)

So you can shoot away!

HTH

Leander

Thanks for the many answers!

I think I will try shooting manual as all of you suggested it should be possible. After that I will decide if I'll upgrade.

Thanks again for your help!

Georg