Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/03/26

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Subject: [Leica] MR4 Meter Circuit
From: "Frank Filippone" <red735i@worldnet.att.net>
Date: Thu, 26 Mar 1998 23:01:26 -0800

The MR4 meter is a simple circuit without voltage regulation.  It consists
(simplistically) of a battery, amp-meter, CDS Cell, and variable resistor
in its operational mode.  Basically, the CDS cell varies its resistance
with light intensity.  The amp-meter measures the variable current from the
circuit.  The variable resistor  is used to set full scale adjustment of
the meter.

Why is this important?  Because if you have a meter that is calibrated for
the old mercury cells (1.35 V) , and want to use it with the new 1.50 V
batteries, you either must adjust the variable resistor or set your ASA
lower.  How much lower?  I would say 10%... 1/3 of an F-stop is fine.  
Does this remain linear with increased light?  Yes it does... one ASA
setting change will make all your readings accurate, no matter what the
light reading.

So.... either get your tech to adjust the variable resistor or decrease
your ASA by 1/3 speed... ASA 100 to 80, for example.

Your third choice is to buy the CRIS battery adaptor... this will work
without adjusting anything.

I would review the CL and M6 meter as well if someone would make that
available, although from my previous life I know that the M6 is a different
animal.


Thank You
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Frank Filippone
red735i@worldnet.att.net