Corded Flash Metering Feature Sekonic L-308X

Recently I purchased a Sekonic L-308X light meter. It replaced my now failing and much loved Gossen Profi-Six light meter.

Firstly, the meter works perfectly, my question is to do with corded flash metering.

On page iii of the manual there is a bulleted note, which reads:-

"Do not use the meter in Cord Flash Mode at altitudes above 2,000m (6,561 feet)"

Not having used corded flash equipment for well over 30 years, and then operating at or near sea level, I have never heard of this requirement before.

Anyone able to shed light on the matter, its just a matter of interest thing? I have no intention of using flash equipment, although, if someone gifted me a studio set of flash equipment, I could be interested.

A PDF version of the meter is here.

Danger from lightening strikes?

Ooooh, interesting one there Matt, hadn't thought of that.

Won't be an issue in Australia as our highest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko, is only 2228m high, and I've been there in December 1975, which was the last time you could drive a vehicle within 200m of the summit, then walk the rest of the way to the cairn at the top.

As a footnote:- we rode our motorcycles to the top on that December 1975 trip, then walked to the summit. While at the summit we saw snow that had turned rather icy on the eastern slopes, we donned our waterproofs, then proceeded to slide down on our backs and backsides a few times, a wonderful time was had by all and sundry. Couldn't do that these days, too easy to injure yourself; or something like that.

Looking at L308s and L308X user manuals, it notes danger from using corded mode if hands are wet, and/or in conditions with water...so electrical isolation can be the fundamental issue "There is a danger of electric shock if the "Cord Flash Mode" is used. "
Why that means use above a certain altitude can only be speculated, the user manual offers zero insight.

Arrrh, I see. On page 21 of the manual it says:-

"There is a danger of electric shock if the meter is handled with wet hands, during rain, in areas splashed by water or where there is a lot of moisture. This may also result in damage to the meter."

We still have the 2,000m rule to figure out though.

Well I think I have discovered the issue, air density.

It seems that many electrical devices require a greater separation of componentry as one goes higher in altitude. Rather than rave on as though I know what I'm talking about; which I don't, this link seems to explain things.

It is a three page PDF from a German company in Achern, the last paragraph summarises things neatly, but if you read it through, or read enough of it, you'll see why there is a 2,000m user ceiling for these products.

The rather interesting take away is to do with Chinese manufactured products, they apparently use 5,000m as their main cut-off point. This is due to China have many areas of high altitude.

Thanks for sharing this