Inon Z240 modeling light "flashing"

Help!

I am having an issue with one of my Inon Z240 strobes: The modeling light will come on at random, then start flashing on and off. Once it comes on at random and/or starts flashing, it will not stop until you turn the strobe off. I am using two Z240's (type 2), and only one of the strobes does this. The strobe does appear to fire correctly. This is quite bothersome, and my subjects don't seem to appreciate it either! This happens daytime and night diving...

Setup:

Nikon D300 camera, manual mode

Subal ND30 housing, bulkhead distribution circuit board set to manual

Sea & Sea 5-pin sync cords x 2

Inon Z240 Type 2 strobes x 2, manual mode x 2, ACC's disabled x 2, slave "covers" in place x 2

I couldn't find this issue posted here or on the net..

Thank you very much for any and all of your input!

Debbie

Hi Debbie,

It would seem to me that there may be two possible causes of this problem; either mechanical or electronic.

Firstly mechanical - If the spring behind the push button modelling light switch has lost its tension maybe that could allow the control rod to flop around and make the circuit? Therefore a simple swap out of springs may cure the problem. Maybe you could compare the spring tension with your other Z-240. Also, try gently shaking the strobe and see if that initiates the light which may also confirm a mechanical type problem.

Otherwise its likely to be an electronic issue which is problably going to require a RTB...

Hope this helps, Tim

Another option:

Do you have the slave sensor on the bottom of the strobe covered? When this is un-covered the modeling light comes on.

Alex

Debbie

I'll be a bit more of a harbinger of doom. Check the strobe for leaks in the battery compartment and cracks around the outside of the strobe, especially beneath the rubber ring around the front. What you are looking for is a crack in the plastic which MAY be letting tiny amounts of water in which will cause electronic problems. Also look carefully if there is any condensation in the lense.

My Z240 died a very slow death due to an almost imperceptible crack in the plastic under the rubber ring, exhibiting similar symptoms to yours except my light wouldn't stay OFF. If it is that, then you can replace the internal bits for about 60-70% of a new strobe.