Nikon Photomic Tn Batteries
The batteries intended for the Nikon Photomic Tn were PX625 mercury cells. They now no longer available because of the hazardous materials they contain. The best current substitute power cell is a 625A alkaline. The 625A alkaline cells are available at Wal Mart and other discount stores. You may find that your meter readings are not spot on with the alkaline batteries, but it will be close enough to make sure your meter is working and to shoot some photos on print film. Of course, you can always ignore the meter and use the Sunny 16 Rule.
Labels: Camera Hacks, Camera Maintenance, Cameras
posted by Xavier at 9:01 PM
8 Comments:
I have an FTn, which is basically an F with the Photomic built in. I went through this; basically I just bracketed everything for a while until I was sure that the meter was close enough to rely on.
The overall discharge voltage curve is a little different though, so it may drift over time. Photomic IIRC uses a CdN cell which is a resistive load, but I can't remember how the circuit is set up so I can't tell ya right now if it's high on a fresh battery and then drops low, or the other way around.
I have to use Wein zinc-air cells in my cameras. These are the only ones that replicate the old batteries and do not throw off meters.
They are available all over the web in different sizes/power. They are air activated and last pretty long.
or, god forbid, use an external spot meter and the zone system. (I hate bringing a meter, but I never have exposure issues when I do)
Arrggh. This camera stuff is so LAME!
Sorry to disappoint anon. I blog for myself, and if I want to make notes to refer back to in the future, I will.
Hey, I'm diggin' "this camera stuff". You're inspiring me to bust out the old Nikon F and go walking around.
Not having a light meter built in, I tend to fall back on "Sunny 16" a lot. It does actually work, and it's refreshing to see someone mention it.
I have a Leica M4 myself with the MR meter. I bought a half-dozen mercury batteries when I heard they were going off sale; I think they're still in my freezer somewhere.
Only a matter of time before 35mm film disappears, I fear. I'm from Rochester NY originally; Kodak has shut down about 80% of its factories, and bulldozed a lot of the industrial park, primarily for tax reasons, as film sales have dropped off the map. Even Xrays are going digital.
Don't say it Bob..........
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