Gossen Lunasix 3,again.

[David Lingham]

I want to use a Gossen Lunasix 3 that I’ve been given. After research I’ve discounted using Wein cell batteries, because of there short life. I would prefer to use, what here in the UK, is called a PX14 adapter that takes two silver oxide cells, as this would be the cheaper route. The problem is no one seems to stock or sell it any more. So the only option appears to be using two MR9 adapters, one for each battery.

Both are advertised here:

http://www.smallbattery.company.org.uk/sbc_mr9_adapter.htm.

http://www.smallbattery.company.org.uk/sbc_px14_adapter.htm.

I have found the MR9 cheaper on ebay, but not the PX14.

I have read of a procedure to add diode into the wiring of the meter, but that is beyond me. Also, I’m well aware of the problems of using old meters, calibration etc. And all the good advice I see and hear is to buy something new and d*****l. But, I want to use this meter so I’m asking, firstly does anyone know where to buy the PX14 adapter, and are either these adapters any good?

 

[ic-racer]

Use another brand of Zink battery. In the States Zink batteries are the least expensive button cells. I buy them in bulk.

 

[E. von Hoegh]

Use 675 zinc-air cells and block off all but one of the airholes, this increases the life to a year or more. I made sone rings of 14 AWG copper wire to hold them centered. I use this adaptation in all my meters & cameras, one 675 lasted for 27 months in a Nikkormat with moderate regular use.

 

[Jeff Bradford]

When I sent my LunaSix out to Quality Light Metric for calibration, I asked about the battery issue. George Milton advised that he could recalibrate the meter to use alkaline batteries, but advised against it. He recommended using the zinc-air cells as being "the perfect solution". A pack of 16 costs about $7.

 

[btaylor]

Yes, the hearing aid zinc-air cells are inexpensive and the tip on covering most of the air holes is a good one-- but I am lazy, and I like things to fit just right. So I bought some MR9 adapters. 2 from CRIS (expensive! Excellent fit/function) and I just ordered a couple of less expensive ones on eBay, they haven't arrived yet. I had Gossen repair/calibrate my old LunaPro and they sold me the PX14 for $80US, so the 34 pound one looks like quite the bargain to me. I have so many devices that use the mercury cell that it's worth it to me.

 

[David Lingham]

Thank you all for your replies. I want to do this right, so I’ll try and get the PX14.

 

[Tobes71]

I have the PX14 from the small battery company for my Lunasix. Works perfectly, meter is accurate, and it's still using the first set of batteries after 18 months.

I have no reservations about recommending it.

 

[David Lingham]

Thank you Tobes71, it's the way I'll try and go.

 

[Dan Fromm]

I have the PX14 from the small battery company for my Lunasix. Works perfectly, meter is accurate, and it's still using the first set of batteries after 18 months.

I have no reservations about recommending it.

If you mean the adapter, not the alkaline PX 14 battery, they show it as out of stock. It looks exactly like the discontinued Gossen 4145 adapter.

David, you might want to look at the battery discussion in http://www.galerie-photo.com/horseman-4x5-exposure-meter.html

 

[David Lingham]

Thank you Dan. It looks a very in depth read. I've been told that the PX14 adapter is no longer made by Gossen, what I'll probably do is get two MR9 adapters instead.

 

[jgoody]

I have used the CRIS adapter with an OM 1n camera for many years and the meter worked correctly. Seems like a quality product.

 

[Kodachromeguy]

I do not know how you can ever adjust any light meter to work with alkaline batteries because their voltage drops off as they age. The almost constant 1.35 volt output of mercury batteries is the electrical feature that made them so valuable to use in light meters. Like some others above, I recommend the zinc-air cells. Only uncover one hole on the top. In USA, they are cheap for a 6-package at the grocery store. Good luck with your meter..