580 EX Batteries

[Megalot]

Hi all

Does anyone know if using the 580 EX flash in manual more uses more power than using it in ETTL?

Thanks

[S_J_P]

Re: 580 EX Batteries

That depends on the power setting!

Technically, as E-TTL uses a pre-flash to meter prior to the exposure flash, E-TTL will use more power than an equivalently exposed manual image which only outputs the single flash.

[Nathaniel]

Re: 580 EX Batteries

I very happily use duracell batteries on my 580Ex flash gun and it goes like a bomb. The charge also lasts a very long time, so must so I have to remember to remove the batteries when I have finished an assignment.

[Megalot]

Re: 580 EX Batteries

Thanks. I've also always used Duracell with no problems. I think I must have had a duff batch. I've just received and installed a set of eneloop rechargeable batteries, the difference between them and a new set of these Duracells was immediately noticeable, the flash charged to full power in a couple of seconds and the recycle time was minimal. I'm going to stick with the eneloop now. To be fair I contacted proctor & gamble who make Duracell and they have put a voucher in the post (don't know to what value)

[S_J_P]

Re: 580 EX Batteries

If I remember correctly alkaline cells tend to drop their voltage as they discharge whereas rechargeable cells tend to maintain their voltage until the very end, this voltage drop can lead to prolonged recharge times even when there's still a decent amount of juice in the cell. Rechargeable cells seem to work effectively in flashguns, and I'd tend to avoid alkalines unless absolutely necessary.

[Megalot]

Re: 580 EX Batteries

Just by way of an update, I bought a couple of sets of the Eneloop batteries as suggested on this forum, what a difference. There is no overnight drop off in performance,the first set has been in for over a week and has delivered well in excess of 250 flashes so far. I had to buy a charger but that will pay for itself in no time. I contacted Proctor & Gamble (the manufacturer of the Duracell batteries), they offered no explanation but sent me a voucher for £15 which was good. I also went the whole hog an bought a canon CP E4 battery pack (as I use flash a lot these days) and that has boosted the performance of the 580 EX again.

Thanks for the input people.

[AndyMackie]

Re: 580 EX Batteries

Eneloops are definitely the way to go - faster recharge per flash, charge lasts forever, much cheaper
What's not to like?
Andy

[Nathaniel]

Re: 580 EX Batteries

I fully endorse the Eneloops batteries judging by the way that my Westminister clock keeps on going month after month, for the last 6 months. Had I inserted Duracell batteries as before, I am sure that one or two would have lost their charge by now, giving me erroneous chimes. I will therefore remove the duracell batteries from my Canon 580Ex and insert Eneloops batteries from now on.