Help! Problems firing off camera flash!

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DataDog

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Steve
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Hi folks.

Basically, the set up I have is as follows:

Eos500D, 2x pocket wizards, 430 ex II flash, lighting stand, 2 different shoe mounts with pc connection (one with integrated cable on hot shoe mount - lastolite sync block. The other is a jessops mount with pc jack and I have an external cable.

I was able to fire the flash off camera with the lastolite sync block on two shoots and then it all just stopped working when setting up for my third shoot.

I initially ordered the sync block and it was faulty before first use so this is the replacement. Given the poor build quality, I decided to try the jessops mount to see if that's where the fault was. Still no joy.

The flash fires fine on camera so it's not faulty. The PW's are talking to each other as when you press and hold the test button, the status lights on both units remain on while the button is held. All batteries are new, same channels selected etc. I can't think of any obvious problem. Is it likely to be another brand new sync block (jessops one this time) that's also goosed???

I'm really frustrated. I don't mind paying a bit more cash for a reliable sync block but I can't find a suitable product in the UK. What does everyone else use?

For those of you who are unaware, the 430exII does not have a sync port built in, hence the need for the external connection on the block.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Steve
 
Firstly,have a look at the port where the sync cable plugs into the Pocket Wizard and ensure that there's a good contact and if so, assuming you're using PWIIs, try swapping the units around and plugging the cable into the other one and see if that makes any difference.
 
Thanks FITP. I just checked the connection and all seems fine. Tried changing over the units too and there's no change in status. Still no flash. Any other suggestions?
 
I haven't tried that yet, no. I'm away offshore now but will try it out when I get back.

Thanks very much for your help!
 
No idea if this is relevant, but have you tightened the flashguns onto the sync blocks?

As for my solution, I use RF-602 triggers. It all just works. No need for extra components to jerry rig a working solution.
 
Cables. I had the same issue with my big strobes using Pulsar triggers. The cables ended up being buggered.

Just a thought.
 
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