Hi,
@aarg
The OP isn't trying for hi speed, he is at the moment just trying to get it to flash once.
The flash unit he has is basically what Kodak and some others used in their disposable cameras.
I agree they are not high speed units, just a cheap compromise to expose 35mm 100ASA colour film for happy snaps.
@birdhouse
The flash should occur on the closing of the "contacts" of the flash unit, so closed duration should not be a problem.
As you have found if you short the two "contact" leads together the flash should operate, just be careful of the high voltage that is across them.
Tom... 