Two 'D' cell voltage Regulated LS Flashlight?

[ElektroLumens]

I want to know if there is much interest in a 2 'D' cell, voltage regulated Blaster. This would be the Blaster VI body, but instead of a 5 watt Luxeon Star, I would use a 1 watt Lambertian Luxeon Star, and a voltage regulator.



I have tested the micropuck with two D cells to last about 24 hours of good reasonable brightness.

If maximum brightness were the choice, it may be about 12 hours, but constant maximum brightness. This circuit would be something like the one dat2zip sells.

Any comments or suggestions here.

I sort of lean towards the micropuck, as the battery life is so good, and the LED Dynamics micropuck product already exists.

The thought is a smaller but comparable flashlight to the Blaster II. Shorter battery life of course, as the Blaster II goes 24 hours at high brightness, and a good 3 days after that of usable light.

I guess the idea would be to have a smaller, 2 D cell size flashlight, using a 1 watt Luxeon Star.

Wayne j

[kd7kmp]

I would personally like to see a 5W regulated light. I have several 1 watters already. BTW, I love my original 3D cell Balster!

Kevin

[Bullzeyebill]

Wayne, what current would it be regulated? Blaster II is approximately 700mA-resisted?

[PaulW]

A 1 watter would be nice, yet a little ho-hum to me. But a 5 watter would really turn me on, regardless of battery configuration.

It's the idea of regulation that I want -- the flatter the better. I really dislike not knowing for sure whether I need to change batteries.

[Free]

I agree, a flashlight of that size and weight should be much brighter. I vote for a 5watt regulated. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/buttrock.gif[/img]

[Joel]

Wayne:

I love the form factor of the 2-D light. It would be great to use the 3-to-D adapters in it with a 1 watt LS. I could use lithium AA's or my rechargeables. I already own two of your Blaster II's and would love something a bit smaller with a decent run-time. My Everled could take the voltage of the 3-to-D's but your optics kick the heck out of any light the Everled would fit into. Keep up the GREAT work!
Joel

[woodbender]

I personally would like the setup a lot. I do plan to get a 5 watter at some point, but would also like a 1w in the same size configuration. This would also give several battery options such as 2d's or your 3 to d holders using rechargeables or even lithiums. I could choose either light depending on if I preferred brightness or runtime. I guess my only concern would be how much the output is stepped up. I would like to get the most brightness out of the 1watt as possible.

[bucken]

I was thinking more along the line of a SINGLE D-cell length, using your 3-to-D adapter (4.5V), to power a 1W LS. This would make a positively GREAT automobile emergency light. Could even use lithiums, if desired.

As far as the 2 D-cell length, I have to agree with others about a preference for a regulated 5W, but not if it would be significantly dimmer than direct-drive. Your current Blaster VI would be very difficult to improve.

Just my .02...

[Joel]

Wayne:

To heck with my previous idea - Bucken's idea of a single D size 1 watt rocks! The compact size and ability to use AA lithiums in the 3-to-D would make for the perfect emergency light! I would buy one for every relative and then some! Maybe with a lanyard ring for a glowring. With your optics and quality I think a "Blaster Jr." would be a terrific addition to your product line.
Joel

[woodbender]

Got to admit that the single D size using your 3 to d holder with AA lithiums sounds really nice.

[ElektroLumens]

[ QUOTE ]
woodbender said:
Got to admit that the single D size using your 3 to d holder with AA lithiums sounds really nice.

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah, I've thought about a 1 D cell flashlight, using the 3-To-D holder. That would still be very bright, and last about 8 hours or so. It would be about 7" long, which is 2" shorter than the Blaster VI.

Wayne j

[Rothrandir]

sound like a good idea!

i understand the idea behind using a micropuck, because of availability, but would you consider using other converters for a premium price? possibly upgrade to a bb750 for extra $10 or so? ;D

btw, would you consider putting your web site in your sig line?

[IsaacHayes]

Going along with the original post idea: 2D size 1W. My feelings on this is you already have a super long lasting light that is 3D. This one would be a bit smaller but needs more to make it different from the current BlasterII+. So I vote 12hours maximum brightness. That's still a ton of runtime over incandecents, plus it would be bright all the time. Use it for when you need the brightest light time after time.
Blaster II+ = large, long lasting.
Blaster 2D = Bit more compact, full blast all the time.
And going a bit off topic then, I think a compact 1W 2C sized light with 30mm would be really popular.

[Icebreak]

[ QUOTE ]
IsaacHayes said:
And going a bit off topic then, I think a compact 1W 2C sized light with 30mm would be really popular.

[/ QUOTE ]
I like this idea also. Otokoyama has a rendition of this up in the Modified forum. His description gives credit to ElektoLumens. He respectfully and informally calls it "Mini-Blaster". He hints that he would like to see Wayne build a 1W 2C.

The 3 to D's will allow for multiple configurations. Many people are going to be very happy when they become available. A 2D 1W isn't something I'm looking for right now, but certainly, it is a good idea.

[ElektroLumens]

[ QUOTE ]
Icebreak said:
[ QUOTE ]
IsaacHayes said:
And going a bit off topic then, I think a compact 1W 2C sized light with 30mm would be really popular.

[/ QUOTE ]
I like this idea also. Otokoyama has a rendition of this up in the Modified forum. His description gives credit to ElektoLumens. He respectfully and informally calls it "Mini-Blaster". He hints that he would like to see Wayne build a 1W 2C.

The 3 to D's will allow for multiple configurations. Many people are going to be very happy when they become available. A 2D 1W isn't something I'm looking for right now, but certainly, it is a good idea.



[/ QUOTE ]
I saw the Mini-Blaster. Nice idea. It may happen, but possibly with 3 C cells?

I have some of Wayne Yamaguchi's circuits. I just ordered a couple more yesterday. I'm looking at the 500mA badboy, and the adjustable one. I have a 750mA Badboy, but not sure if I want to use it with the 1 watt or not.

Anyway, it's not easy to decide on which size. The Blaster II has superb battery life, is very bright. Hard to beat that combination. The idea is to go smaller, with high brightness. I also like the idea of a 1D size, using the 3-To-D holder. It would be as bright as the Blaster II, but batery life would be much shorter. It is a lot smaller, so it will fit in a purse or glove box.

I do appreciate the feedback and input. Thanks.

Wayne J.

[Minjin]

I say go with 3 Sub C batteries in a battery stick. This configuration could support a 5w as well with the proper circuit. Its time for Elektrolumens to join the rechargeable world. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Battery sizes:

2C = 1.020in diameter x 3.94in long
3C = 1.020in diameter x 5.91in long
3SC = 0.910in diamater x 5.07in long
2D = 1.300in diameter x 4.80in long
3D = 1.300in diameter x 7.20in long

But you wouldn't want to cut into those Stinger sales would you? [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img]

Mark

[Rothrandir]

lol minj [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] what do you know about batteries? [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

wayne, if you could make a rechargable 5w via docking station or plug where you don't have to take the batts out, i, and countless others would be extremely interested [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

[Icebreak]

Wayne -

Yes, 1W 1D. I would go for that. IMHO, exploring all the possibilities of the D chassis is understandable and wise.

Roth -

You crack me up all the time but that's really funny. What does Minjin know about batteries? [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] More than the average bear.

Off Topic again: Maybe someone should open up a thread, "What would you like ElektroLumens to build next?"

3C? Yes, I like that form factor. 6C low resistance 5W? Oh, yeah. Rechargable Blaster? BooYaaa.

Wayne already built one special light I wanted. It is a Blaster VI, low resistance 5W RB. Blows my socks off! When I can borrow a camera I'll post a mini-review.

Back On Topic: 1W 1D loaded with 3 AA lithiums goes in the console or occasionally the adjustable drink holder?

[snuffy]

I'd like to see the 1W 1D version. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsup.gif[/img]
It might be a good seller.
There's nothing like it on the market now.

[Ginseng]

I would buy a 1W1D + 3-D for both of our cars as well as two for the house. A killer category buster.

Wilkey

[Elnath]

Well...I'll put in my $0.02 on the 1W/1D size light. I want one! (right after I get the 3 to D carriers I already have on order... [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img]

Wayne, It's great to see that you are "listening" to your most rabid customer base should add lots of concepts for exploration by your R&D staff.... [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

[soloco]

I really like the 1W LS 1D (3AA) idea a LOT! I've been trying to make it, but I don't have the facilities to do it. If you made this, I would definitely get it!

I'd also like to see a 1W LS using 2 123s side by side or a single 223. It would be even smaller than a 1D and have a nice oblong handle to grip. I know this would probably require some injection molding, but I think this is the light I am dreaming of making.

[lightbulb]

The 2 C cell would be a perfect sized flashlight plus you can use the body for both the 1w and 5w using 3 123 bats and possibly interchange heads that would house the converter

[IsaacHayes]

Hmm based on what everyone is wanting I will suggest these.
** 1D for smaller size. Could we posibly have it with rechargables that we don't have to remove? Would be awesome. A lanyrd would be great too, but might be hard to machine in?
** 2C smaller size again. A 3C would be a bit too bulky I'd think. Needs to be shorter as well as skinnier. Rechargeble via docking/jack is defiantly a plus. A 5W recharable would be awesome in this size.
Fully regulated Full bright all the time. This light would serve a different purpose than the others. Probably make it inbetween sizes of the 3D and 2C. So a 2D would probably be good. Call it the "Blaster Pro"?

IceBreak, I'd like to see some pics of that eye-frier! [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] RB is just crazy.

[B@rt]

[ QUOTE ]
Rothrandir said:
btw, would you consider putting your web site in your sig line?

[/ QUOTE ]

Good idea... [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsup.gif[/img]

[Icebreak]

IsaacHayes -

This Blaster VI 5W RB is crazy. I've discovered something truly fascinating with it that was briefly discussed on the boards once before, but not explored. It's screaming at me, "No more flashlights for 3 mo. and you can buy a camera for me." Yeah right. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img] I'm sure you know how awesome they are but I've never had one before. Gemini Cricket!

BTW, nice synopsis of this thread.

B@rt -

I've never accused you of being subtle and I'm not going to start now.

[B@rt]

[img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif[/img] Not subtle..? [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/icon3.gif[/img]
I even wear velvet gloves when typing... [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/icon15.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/yellowlaugh.gif[/img]

[Rothrandir]

[ElektroLumens]

[ QUOTE ]
B@rt said:
[ QUOTE ]
Rothrandir said:
btw, would you consider putting your web site in your sig line?

[/ QUOTE ]
Good idea... [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsup.gif[/img]


[/ QUOTE ]


Isn't that my web site up in the right hand corner of my banner? [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img] I know it's not the greates banner, but it's the first one I ever did. I suppose I can make a better one?

Wayne j

[Quickbeam]

Is your banner supposed to be in your sig line? I don't see it there. I think the point was to have a way to quickly go to your site since your banner ad isn't always on screen.