Welcome Back the Vivitar 285HV Flash…

Why Vivitar’s new and improved 285HV flash is something to get excited about

The HV is a very important part of the name.  The original Vivitar 285 is not safe for your digital camera, the newer 285HV is.  The most important difference is the now lower than 6-volt  synch voltage in the new version.  The 285HV ($90, street) offers a normal, wide or zoom setting (slide the front of the flash out).  Yes it looks like your father’s flash, but its simplicity is also its beauty. 

Set the aperture and the ISO (ASA on flash) and the dial does the rest. The wheel shows the f-stops with color wedges, set the mode selector dial to the color and you are set and so is the flash.  With the new version you receive a panel to adjust the flash for wider coverage.  For batteries, you can use four 1.5 volt AA alkaline batteries.  You also have the option of using NiCad rechargeable batteries for faster recycle time. The flash unit comes with a  short synch cord that you use to connect to your off camera trigger.  The cord has one end that fits the synch jack on the side of the flash, the other end you will need to connect with different things depending on what you are using to trigger.

The coolest thing I have seen is the Wein peanut slave running you about $20.   
It is the about the size of a dime, looks like a marble cut in half with a small connector and fits right into the end of the cord that comes with the Vivitar 285HV, working like a tiny transmission receiver.  Now your first flash should, if all is right in your world, trigger the second flash. 
                                                   
If you wish to use a Pocket Wizard you will need the Pocket Wizard cord specifically for the Vivitar 285HV.  You can find the cords at a number of places, one easy stop for all your cord needs is Paramount cords, http://www.paramountcords.com  they should have every cord you could ever need.  If you aren’t sure exactly which one you need, call them and the folks there are more than willing to help you out.   Is your head spinning yet?  Once you see the simplicity of the set up, you will be amazed.  If you go the flash and peanut slave route you have a second flash triggering for just a little over $100, depending on your flash cost.
—Melissa Macatee