Besler MXCRX w/Condenser Head + Stabilized Power Supply?

[gdi]

I bought a Besler 4x5 enlarger that came with a Besler Stabilized Power Supply. From looking online, it appears this unit may not be for this enlarger but for a 23c color head. Is there any value in using this with the MCRX? I am using a Besler B&W condenser 4x5 head.

Thanks!

[xkaes]

Beseler made a LOT of "power supplies". It would help if hard a part # or a photo of it. Are the connections wrong? We need more info. Colorheads have very different connections.

I don't use a "power supply" on my condenser heads, they are not required, but I do use a voltage regulator.

[gdi]

Thanks here is a picture - it looks like #8191 but I can find no markings. It has two cords one with a big warning tag that it cannot be plug into a wall out let, but only to a timer.

It looks a lot like this- http://store.khbphotografix.com/Stab...o-23-Used.html

[xkaes]

That six-pronged connection is the "give-away". That's for a colorhead. My guess is that you can use it as a voltage stabilizer for your condenser head, but others will know more about it.

[gdi]

Thanks - I don’t really know if I need it all. I guess if I was doing critical and precise work, voltage fluctuations might make a difference, but since I’m just trying to reach the level of “competent printer” I’m not sure it is that important.

[nolindan]

Many Beseler 'regulated' products used 85V lamps. The power supply chopped the incoming AC at 90 degrees and then varied this chopping point to keep the VRMS output constant. If this supply is of the same design it will not work with standard enlarger lamps.

The admonition (applied late in the manufacturing process) not to plug the unit into the wall may because it will overheat if left on continuously.

[gdi]

Thanks!

So I’ll leave it out of my setup. I have another MX with a Dichro head - if I ever use that I might plug the stabilizer in.

[xkaes]

The Beseler condenser heads use standard 110-120 volt current -- NOT the 85v mentioned above -- and can use everyday light bulbs, but the 211 & 212 types are used because they don't have anything written on the bulb, like "100 WATT GE".

Color heads use COMPLETELY different types of quartz bulbs.

[gdi]

The Beseler condenser heads use standard 110-120 volt current -- NOT the 85v mentioned above -- and can use everyday light bulbs, but the 211 & 212 types are used because they don't have anything written on the bulb, like "100 WATT GE".

Color heads use COMPLETELY different types of quartz bulbs.

Thanks, for the info.

For background, I received a box of 150w unmarked Osram bulbs with the enlarger. This unit also has a "Resistrol" dial and a voltage gauge. (I usually keep it at about 70 volts since I heard it will extend the bulb live. Plus, it will only raise the voltage to 90 volts when maxed out.)

So I think I am all set for now - thanks all!

[Mark NY]

Here's mine: