Connecting a handle mount Metz flash on a Sony Cybershot DSC-R1

[jllbvs]

I bought in december 2006 a Sony Cybershot DSC-R1, and I have been using it during these 6 past years with the greatest satisfaction.  The DSC-R1 is an excellent camera, which perfectly fulfills all my needs.

With it, I use a Sony HVL-RLA ring flash for close-up shots, and a HVL-F32X. (I always encountered some contact problems with the flash socket, but that is another story). 

With all my films cameras (Rolleiflex FX, Rollei SL66SE and Linhof large format camera) I have always been using a handle mount flash Metz 45 CL-4, which I highly appreciate.  

One of the advantages of this kind of flash is that it can be used practically with any brands and models of cameras, just by using what is called an "SCA" adapter. On Rolleiflex medium format film cameras, the SCA 356 adapter performs perfectly.  

The same flash can be used on digital cameras. I recently  installed the flash on a Fuji X100 with a SCA-301 system module, SCA-300 adapter and PC synchro cord. It works perfectly. 

So, I decided to use the Metz 45 CL-4 with my Sony DSC-R1. Metz knowledge base confirms that this flash can be used with a DSC-R1. No problem.  

Then, I bought a SCA-3602 (dedicated module for Sony cameras), and a SCA-3000C adapter. Following instructions of DSC-R1 user manual and Metz user guides, I tried to configure the system. 

Nothing. I checked all carefully, assembled and disassembled it a dozen times : nothing. No flashlight...

There is probably a small detail which I forgot. But which one ? 

I know that the SCA-3602 is out of production. But, the one I bought was a brand new one, so with the SCA-3000C. 

Did someone already tried this system, or experienced similar problems ?  Please, help ! 

Many thanks and kind regards. 

Jean-Louis

[jllbvs]

I've read this topic with interest, scav242. Many thanks for your help.

I think that there is (maybe) a "firmware" version of the SCA 3602 which doesn't fit my flash and/or DSC-R1.

As I wrote earlier, I found a "true" SCA 3602 M4 adapter, and I'll try it as soon as received.

I've been working in computers world for nearly 40 years, and I know that firmwares and drivers make most of the time the difference between a working device and a useless one.

To be continued...

[jllbvs · Accepted solution]

Hi everybody.
I received this morning the new SCA 3602 M4 adapter.
I mounted it under the SCA 3000 C-M1, plugged both cables : all functions perfectly.
Perfect flash exposures in TTL and automatic (aperture) modes.
I also tried the 45 CL-4 in indirect mode. Also OK.

The camera controls the flash completely.

Well, I guess that the SCA 3602 "version" was the problem.
With the first SCA 3602, nothing. And with the second one (with the "M4" green label on top) all is OK.

Many thanks to all those who answered to me.
If one day I can help you, it will be a great pleasure.
Have a nice day.

Jean-Louis

[Mick2011]

Ah that's great news

Many thanks for your feedback Jean-Louis, it really is very much appreciated.

Cheers

Mick