Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/12/26

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Subject: Re: [Leica] B
From: Ruralmopics@aol.com
Date: Sun, 26 Dec 1999 22:12:59 EST

In a message dated 12/26/99 7:20:52 PM, howard.390@osu.edu writes:

<< It is commonly said that the "B" on the shutter speed dial stands for
"bulb".  This doesn't seem to make much sense.  Does anyone know the story
behind this, or what the "B" *really* stands for?
 >>

When you say bulb, imagine a squeeze bulb -- like on a turkey baster or an 
old fashioned ear syringe. Now imagine a hose from that bulb attached to the 
shutter. When  you squeeze your imaginary bulb what happens? Does your 
imaginary shutter open? Good, your hose hasn't sprung a leak yet. Now what 
happens when you release the bulb? The shutter closes? Now does "bulb" make 
sense. Needless to say, it's an archaic term.

Bob