Classic Series Helmet doesn't "wake up" fast enough

[jstluise]

I have a Classic Series Helmet (251292) that I use along with a Millermatic 211 MIG welder. Ever since I've got the helmet I've noticed that occasionally when I start a new welding session, I get blinded on the first arc because the helmet doesn't seem to "wake up" fast enough. After that initial arc, the helmet works great like it should. I say occasionally because sometimes I don't notice a problem on the initial arc, but it happens more times than not. Lately I've resorted to closing my eyes and making an initial tack just to wake the helmet up. And most of the time, even with my eyes closed, I can tell the helmet has a split second of unshaded light with the initial arc.

I talked directly with Miller and they suggested I warranty the lens, which I did. Unfortunately even with the new lens I have been experiencing the same problem. I've also tried playing with all the different settings with no luck. The helmet works exactly like it should besides that initial wake up.

Has anyone else experienced this problem? I've done some searching around but haven't been able to find anyone experiencing the same problem.

Thanks!

[H80N]

Replaced batteries recently..??

Do you give it exposure to sunlight to boost the charge

[ryanjones2150]

Maybe you're positioning the mig gun in a manner that it's shielding the arc a little. That combined with the sensitivity set caddywumpus might do that.

[jstluise]

Replaced batteries recently..??

Do you give it exposure to sunlight to boost the charge

Replacing the batteries was the next thing I was going to try. I guess there is a possibility they are low, even though it was brand new and there hasn't been a low battery indicator. I'll give it a try.

This helmet (variable shade) does not have a solar cell; only the fixed shade models are powered by a rechargeable, non-replaceable solar cell.

Maybe you're positioning the mig gun in a manner that it's shielding the arc a little. That combined with the sensitivity set caddywumpus might do that.

Possible, but having been blinded numerous times by the arc makes me think that the helmet is getting plenty of light. And, as soon as the helmet wakes up on that first arc, subsequent arcs are shaded without any delay when welding in the same position.

It's an odd behavior and sort of sporadic (sometimes I don't get the blinding delay, but it happens more times than not), and it's not really a problem that is fun to diagnose since I'm always worried about getting flashed.

Thanks for the replies. I'll try the new batteries and see if that helps. Just wanted to check in to see if anyone else experienced this problem.

[H80N]

Do you have the "DELAY set to max...minimum...??

Slows Lens Dark-
To-Light State
(Between 0.1 And 1
Second)


Is your shop temp too cold for the liquid crystal....?? Below 14F

"When stored in extremely cold temperatures, warm helmet to ambient
temperature before welding."

Here is the manual..

https://www.millerwelds.com/files/ow...52052F_MIL.pdf



is this a "VS" or "VSi",,,,??? X-Mode ..??