Camera, hot shoe adaptor, external flash... is it necessary?

Question

I have a Canon Rebel XTi and 580EX II. I use a hot shoe adaptor as a surge protector between my camera and external flash. The external flash locks on nicely to the adaptor, but the adaptor does not lock onto the camera. It seems a bit heavy, and I'm afraid it will slip off. Is it really necessary to have the adaptor?

Answer 1

It depends on the external flash. If its new, and designed for a digital camera, you probably don't need it, especially if it is also a Cannon brand. BUT, if it is an older model, one originally designed for a film SLR, or made by an aftermarket company you almost certainly do need it. Older models used different voltages and current in their triggering circuits, and some of them were a lot higher than today's DSLR's. You could burn out your hot shoe, or even the whole circuitry of the camera. The combo you list probably doesn't need it, but I would definitely read every page of the flash and camera manuals before I used it without the surge protector. Also It wouldn't hurt to call Cannon's tech support, and ask them if they can advise you.

Answer 2

No. I never herd of a surge protector for a flash. If Canon felt a need for it they would have included it. The cameras built in hot shoe has been designed and tested so don't try to improve on it.