Vivitar 283 adjustable flash hack - Short

In this video I show how to modify the Vivitar 283 flash to make it a variable output flash with a 100k linear taper potentiometer. This video is about 18.5 minutes, see the below link for a shorter version that runs about 3.5 minutes.

18.5 minute version:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpE3Mw-qbB0

Thanks for watching,
JoeCubicle

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[stevethorley]

great vid and love your work .. .I have heard ppl say that that model flash will fry the ttl cct of a modern camera.. I personally think that is complete bull sh!t . Have you tested this ? can you make any comment ?

[JoeCubicle]

@stevethorley I have read that the Vivitar 283 units made in Japan are OK. Others may damage newer DSLR's. You have to look on the body of the unit for the "Made In: _ _ _ ". I'm pretty sure the Japan ones are OK, you should research and double check my info. Thanks a ton for watching and commenting.

[kaudjar]

That is genius. Mental and genius. Good job. I'd love to be able to do that, alas, no soldering iron or dexterity.

[JoeCubicle]

@kaudjar I would bet you could find someone near you that would solder a wire or two for you. Guys that are into electronics would love to help someone do an electrical hack. Put an ad in your local Craigslist.

[killkiddo]

thanks for the vid! i couldn't wrap my brain around the still pics other were posting.

[JoeCubicle]

@killkiddo That is EXACTLY why I made this video. I even make videos of things I sell locally on Craigslist. People love the fact there is a video they can look at.

[commodorecrush]

Very awesome. I just bought a Vivitar 283 used for $20 and will be trying this.

[kaudjar]

Thanks for replying. You've just made me think; my wifes uncle is a retired engineer who spends most of his time hillwalking in Scotland (can you think of a better way to spend your days? I can't) I'll need to ask him if he can show me how to do this.

Thanks again for the vid. Genius.