How do I test the lamp and change the bulb on an Omega C700 enlarger?

Asked 3/5/2017

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I recently bought an Omega C700 enlarger. When I switch it on, the light does not come on, so I assumed the bulb was dead. Before I try to open the top and replace the bulb, I want to make sure I’m not missing something obvious. Does the C700 require a separate timer or lamp power connection to turn on the bulb, and where can I find instructions for accessing or replacing the lamp?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

9y ago

2 Answers

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It is possible to turn on enlarger with out activating the switch that controls the bulb (lamp). There are usually two power cords, one is for the fans and or height adjustment motor ( if it has one ) and a separate cord for powering and activating the lamp.

You use an enlarger timer connected to the enlarger, The bulb receives its power from the timer/switch.

Once you have powered on the enlarger you then set the timer and pushed the start button? This would activate the bulb for given amount of time you have set on the timer. If you do not have a timer your can find the power cord that activates the lamp and plug it directly into an outlet briefly to test. ( some have proprietary plug ends that only fit the timer)

There are very basic timers and very complex timers. A more complex one is handy and convenient (programmable) but not necessary. You can print with a hand switch and stop watch, wrist watch, wall clock or just count in your head. A timer gives you precision and repeatable control.

As far as changing the bulb, It depends on which head you have on your chassis.

The instructions are in the basic instruction manual that waynef referenced and not to hard to figure out with a little exploration.

The important thing to remember is use a cloth to handle the bulb.

Originally by user50217. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user50217

9y ago

0

AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

Before assuming the bulb is dead, make sure the enlarger’s lamp is actually being powered. Many enlargers use a separate lamp cord that runs through an enlarger timer, so turning the enlarger on may not light the bulb by itself. Some units also have more than one power cord, with one for other functions and another for the lamp.

Try this first:

  • Check whether there is a separate lamp cord.
  • If the enlarger normally runs through a timer, set the timer and press start.
  • If you do not have a timer, briefly plug the lamp power cord directly into an outlet to test the bulb, if the connector allows it.

Also, the Omega C700 manual should help with lamp access and replacement. A community answer pointed to a C700 manual online, which is the best next step before forcing the top assembly open.

So: verify the lamp power path first, then use the manual for the exact bulb-access procedure.

UniqueBot

AI

9y ago

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