Some questions on a Kodak Flash Supermatic levers

[lethoncbon]

Hello,

I just bought my first lens for my 4x5 camera (a Kodak 152mm f:4.5 Ektar).

It comes with a Kodak Flash Supermatic Shutter and I have few questions about it :

I understood that this shutter could be synchronised with a flash, but the connector doesn't look to anything I know that connects to flash : what kind of cable do I need?

I don't understand the use of one of the lever (marked on the photo), can anyone indicates me what's its use - I can't even figure how to move it?

Thanks in advance for your help !

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[Paul Fitzgerald]

" what kind of cable do I need?"

that connector was called 'ASE' if I remember right, usually just called a Kodak connector.

"I don't understand the use of one of the lever (marked on the photo), can anyone indicates me what's its use - I can't even figure how to move it?"

cock the shutter, then you can set that lever, it was for flash delay for different type bulbs. Not moving it leaves it set to X-synch for modern flash.

[Mark Sampson]

The flash connection is actually called an 'ASA bayonet'. If you search around you can find a ~$10 adapter that will turn it into a standard 'PC' plug. And congratulations- you have a fine lens from 1947.

[lethoncbon]

Thanks for the fast responses !

I'm going to start looking for an adapter : I already found one on the big auction site but I find it a bit expensive for such a little cable ...

I'll keep this post updated.

Thanks again :)

[Glenn Thoreson]

You can buy a new cable from Paramount Cords. Used ones are hard to find and asking prices often equal or exceed new prices. If everything is working right, that is a great lens.

[katheo]

I have one of these bayonet adapters that lets me use a regular pc sync cord. Here are some pics... first without and then with the adapter.

[Mark Sampson]

Katheo, that's what I was thinking of; I've had one for years but I don't remember where I bought it. The Paramount ASA-to-household cable might be lethoncbon's best chance.

[Glenn Thoreson]

I have one of those adapters, too. Does anyone still make them?

[katheo]

Good question. I have one but I'd like to have another so I don't have to switch it between lenses. I'm afraid I'll drop it and lose it!