[Leica] Combined use of Power Supply and Remote Control of DM-R

[fredhess at phenix-visuals.nl (Fred Hess / Phenix Visuals NL)]

Hello,



I like to share with you to way I solved a problem with my Leica
R8-DM-R-combination.



For some time I use the DM-R rather frequently in various situations. For
instance I use this set-up on my Leitz Orthoplan microscope. I take then
pictures using the Imacon-Flexcolor-software and save the shots directly to
my harddisc in the DNG-format.



The use the mirror-lock-up-mode on the R8 is a great advance in
photomicroscopy, to avoid vibrations. Unfortunately it is not possible to
fire the camera in this mode directly by the Flexcolor-software, because
this software generates only one pulse (and you need two pulses: the first
one to lock-up the mirror and the second pulse to release the shutter).

So you have use an ordinary cable-release or the electric release 14 254 or
the remote-control 14202. I prefer to use the remote control, also to avoid
any vibrations



I also like to use the external power supply 14 452. I do not want constant
use my rechargeable batteries. I want save them for outdoor use. And there's
my problem: you cannot use the remote control and the power supply
simultaneously. Because they make use of the same connector on the DM-R.



I have some experience with making of my own electronic devises.

Well, this is what I have done: I bought the right connectors, made by the
German firm Franz Binder, and a few switches etc.

I mounted these connectors and the switches in small plastic box and
carefully soldered the whole setup according to the technical information
provided to me by the Leica-guys in Solms.



And it works. I sit quite comfortable next to my microscope and
laptop-computer. I fire the camera (in mirror lock-up-mode) mounted on the
microscope. The images are sent by the FireWire IEEE 1394-cable to the
computer, where I can check the images and save them on my hard disc as a
DNG-, TIFF- or JPEG-file.



To speak with Mr. Wallace (of Wallace & Grommit): 'A valuable addition to my
modern (digital) lifestyle..'



The only things which are not in line with the DM-R yet are the frames in
the eyepieces of my microscope. They show the full-frame of 24x36mm and not
the size of the sensor of the DM-R.

But that is not such a great disadvantage, and I get used to imagine the
factor of 1,37x in these frames.



If somebody on the LUG also wants to make such a special connection I am
willingly to share the technical details. Please contact me then off-list.



Fred Hess.