External batteries

[pdterp]

Has anyone used the cheap ebay versions of the CP-E3 or CP-E4 battery pack? What are the chances of damaging my flash with one of these?

[SeedyBee]

I do not hesitate to recommend the Pixel TD-381 Pack for Canon. IMO it is the best out there at present, and at an excellent price - US$56.80 incl. shipping from Hong Kong. It uses 2 x 4 batteries. There are reviews on POTN and on Flickr Strobist Group.

[dboes]

That is great! I have been looking for something but I did not have $160 lying around for the Canon version.

[Thats Fresh]

they both go for used around $110.

[Poltergeiss]

That is great! I have been looking for something but I did not have $160 lying around for the Canon version.

The Canon version is a piece of junk. It does the job, but most, if not all, of the little tabs that help hold the batteries in place break VERY easily. Definitely, DEFINITELY not worth $160.

I've been looking for an alternative to it myself.

The only reason why I bought it was because I could use AA's with it vs. the other options out there.

[bowserb]

Flashzebra.com has one for $65. It looks just like the Canon unit right down to the yellow-on-black caution label on the back. Indeed, they may have copied it too well, since the attachment device--a tripod screw--is a bit awkward. I finally figured a way to make it not too difficult--I have the long side of it pointed forward so that it is just under the lens, and that seems to do well at events where it is not convenient to put the thing in a coat pocket.

The battery holder looks just about as flimsy as the Canon unit, so I've been really careful with it. So far no breaks. The Yongyou (I'm sure I spelled it wrong) brand battery pack just like Canon, works, and 12 batteries (8+4) make a big difference in recycle time and time between changes. In fact, I've not had an event yet where I even had to change batteries when using the pack. This also works with the Nissin Di-866, according to Nissin tech support.

While it hasn't happened to me, there is a caution that the flash may shut down if overheated by too many flashes too close together. In any case, I can't see using the 580 at an event without this supplemental battery pack. Flashzebra.com has very good customer service, too. I needed mine in a rush, and they got it out faster than I would have expected.

[shoots]

Thanks for the Flashzebra info. I just purchased an ETTL cord from Lon. Good guy...

I use two of the Canon CP-4's and agree that there is a significant improvement in recycle times using these. If/when I need another I won't hesitate to give the one from Flashzebra a go.

[Pittspilot]

Thanks for the Flashzebra info. I just purchased an ETTL cord from Lon. Good guy...

I use two of the Canon CP-4's and agree that there is a significant improvement in recycle times using these. If/when I need another I won't hesitate to give the one from Flashzebra a go.

I have the Canon unit and it works well, but is extortionate! I'll be trying the FlashZebra unit next....

[shakyhand]

the cheap ebay cp-e3 or e4 works well. I bought one and been using it for a year. 2 weeks ago, I ordered another one for my strobist work...

[PeteQ]

Another vote here for the FlashZebra units. I picked up one as a spare and have used it with no problems.