Thursday, June 21, 2007

MetroLux Q and A

Q Why use a MetroLux?

A MetroLux was primarily designed for use with coldlight enlargers. Coldlights have a fluctuating light output that is dependent on temperature mostly. MetroLux monitors the light output continuously and adjusts the exposure in real-time to compensate.

Q Will MetroLux work with other light sources?

A Yes. Although it was designed for coldlights, it works equally well with many light sources: tungsten, quartz, florescent, and the sun although we have had a hard time turning the sun off.

Q Can a MetroLux be upgraded to a MetroLux II (One to a Two)?

A No. Not only is the firmware different, but the hardware is different, too.

Q Can a MetroLux be repaired?

A Yes. We have the parts. Repairs are generally simple, quick, and inexpensive. Probably best to call Karl at headquarters: 415.452.9923 PST

Q Are instructional manuals available on the web?

A Yes. They are available at this blog. See April and May. Maybe I'll figure out the link soon.

Q What are the differences between a One and a Two?

A They look and function pretty much the same. The calibration procedure is different. Two has more memories and is friendlier to use and adjust. Two accepts the Remote Sensor, should you have one (no longer available new). Two has a shutter speed timer included.

Q What is the DIN plug on the front of the One?

A A very few of the first Ones had a DIN on the front. We had plans, but they never happened. It does nothing.

Q What is the screw in the hole on the front of the One?

A This adjusts the frequency and thus the resonance and volume and sound of the beeper. If you don't like the beeper, put tape over the hole beside the hole with the screw.

Q My Metrolux One doesn't reset and doesn't work. What gives?

A Very early Metroluxes didn't have a power on reset. If it doesn't count properly, make sure that all the memory registers have 'proper' numbers in them. The times can have anything, but the percent needs to be between 50 and 200. If it is '00' , this will cause problems.

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Pocket Spot

Pocket Spot
Metering in the Office, 10 2/3 EVs

Pocket Spot

Pocket Spot
Metering in the Office, 4 1/3 EVs

Pocket Spot Spec Sheet

Pocket Spot Digital Light Meter Specs

Display: 2-digit Red LED with 1/3, 2/3 LED indicators

Dial: White, laser-engraved on Meter's anodized color background. Intermost dial is ISO with f/# on the outside. f/1.0 to f/128. Outer dial is shutter speeds from 8 minutes to 1/4000 sec on the inside and EV on the outside. EVs from -1 to 20. Body is marked with Zones from Zero to X (10). [Romans didn't have a zero, but what are you going to do? ]

ISO: 3 to 12800 ISO, marked in 1/3 stops

EV range: -1 2/3 to 23 at 100 ISO

Spectral Sensitivity: Compensated for "typical" B&W film, i.e. HP5+ or Tri-X

Angle of View: approximately 1 degree, smaller at very high EVs and 3 degrees at lower EVs

Viewing: Bore-sight through the hole the length of the chassis. Meter is held about 12" or 300mm from the eye (length of strap)

Linearity: about 1% from low to high.

Calibration: Not required. No adjustments inside.

Finish: Black anodized over a solid block of machined aluminum. Texture is random tumble over stones before anodize. Other colors in consideration at extra cost are RED and BLUE.

Battery: 6V PX28 or equivalent, Supplied

Dimensions: 2.25" x 2" x 3/4" (L x W x T) 57 x 50 x 19 mm
Dial on top is 1/8" thick, 3 mm

Weight: 4 1/8 oz (117 grams) with strap and battery, both included.


specifications subject to change

More pictures on page two near bottom.