Vivitar 285HV won't fire with PC-Sync Cable

[steve_simons]

I recently bought a Vivitar 285 HV and have been learning to use it on

the hot shoe just fine, but the reason I bought it was so I could use

it with a PC sync cable, so today I went out and bought a short coiled

one from the local camera store (all they sell).

 

Well, I brought it home and connected the cord to my camera fine, but

then noticed that, although the smaller end of the cable's diamater

matches the diameter of the shutter socket on the 285HV, the plug

doesn't penetrate very far and... doesn't work!

 

I've had the camera in every different setting, just trying to get the

flash to fire while holding the plug into the socket.

 

I've heard that I need a sort of PC-to-Vivitar cable which, from what

I see in photos, has a pointed end, which makes less sense because

inside the flash where the plug goes in is shallow and there is a flat

piece of metal inside.

 

This is very confusing to me, I figured it'd fire with an ordinary PC

cable because I didn't read anything about any "PC to Vivitar" cables

when I researched the flash.

 

If anyone can help my out with this situation, please do!

[roger krueger]

Yup, you need the pointy PC-to-Vivitar cable.

[jmf]

as in http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=73504&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

[paul -]

Here's a clearer view of the correct (Vivitar PC-1) sync cord. If you bought the flash new, there is one in the box.<p>If you only need to move the 285HV a short distance (like to a flash bracket), get the <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=61594&is=REG&addedTroughType=search">Vivitar SC-3</a> Sensor Cord. It does double-duty in that it keeps the flash sensor on-camera for accurate metering, and it also performs the function of sync cord.<div></div>

[steve_simons]

Thanks for your answer. I was just informed that I can use the Vivitar-PC cord with a PC-PC cord, so now I just need to buy the Vivitar-PC cord (I bought the flash used on eBay) and I'll be set.

 

Thanks for your answer.