Does the Vivitar 285HV fit the Nikon D5000?

I just bought it, and i would like to know if it fits.

The Vivitar 285HV has the standard hot shoe and the Nikon D5000 has the standard hot shoe mount so yes-your flash will fit onto your camera and it should work fine.

I believe the HV model was designed for digital use so you should be safe in regard to its trigger voltage, but I'd test it with a volt- or multi-meter just to be absolutely certain.

Yes it wil fit & fire. You won't have TTL (auto flash metering) so you set the flash output manually on the flash.

Be sure it is the HV version! The 285HV has a trigger voltage of 12V (safe) whereas the 285 has a trigger voltage of 350V (which will fry your camera!).

Test it with a voltmeter to be sure. Instructions here;

http://www.botzilla.com/photo/g1strobe.html

Here is an article on guide numbers that could be useful to read if you are getting the Vivitar 285HV
http://en.wikipedia.org/...ide_number