Recent content by brighthead

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    Why aren't there double AA Headlamps?

    I have the Petzl Pixa 1. It has 2xAA. I got it years ago because I was asking the same questions as you. It is heavier on the forehead than 3xAAA models I have tried, which is my main complaint about it. It also doesn't seem to last much longer, battery-wise (but then again it has only one...
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    Headlamp with OFF-TIMER

    I am using a lamp that has been modified to use a 12V LED lamp from China. It has a 'standard' E14 screw base, but 12V. Basically it just involves replacing the bulb and changing the mains plug of a typical lamp to a fitting of your choice. I am running it off a 12v DC solar battery system. Lots...
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    2017 Petzl e+LITE--a Review, sort of

    Yes, quality can vary like you say (and 'waterproof' can often mean not waterproof and often you can get no regulation...) but for the once-in-a-blue-moon 'stashed away spare' scenarios, they are typically fine. So it's these kinds of scenarios where a cheapie really is good for most people, I...
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    Headlamp with OFF-TIMER

    Heh. In the meantime I have been using a timer from ebay (on a 12V DC lamp), which cost around 4 dollars. The little timer relay turns things off well once you set things up. Ideally I'd want it in a headlamp though: just a no-fuss way to get it to shut off in an hour (like a Sleep Timer on...
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    2017 Petzl e+LITE--a Review, sort of

    If you want even floody light output, you can get it in $3 ebay cheapie "cob" headlamps, so I think the "office drone" and "car glovebox" scenarios described in this review are better served with these inexpensive headlamps, for far less cost (and guilt) if something scratches or breaks. Size...
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    Headlamp with OFF-TIMER

    Thanks for this. New one is called the Wiz. Powers off after 4 hours. Gizmo is still on sale but not on their website. Powers off after 2, which seems high but far more reasonable than 4. Question: can I specifically enter this power-off mode or is it 'permanent'? I don't want it turning off...
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    Headlamp with OFF-TIMER

    I often fall asleep with the headlamp on (reading). I would like to buy a headlamp with an OFF-TIMER, so that I can configure it to automatically turn off after a pre-set time (usually about 1 hour). Do they make these?
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    best 4x AA USB battery bank under $10

    yes they are so cheap; I guess I will go ahead and buy one. Will probably stick to the 4xAA. Thanks for your info!
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    best 4x AA USB battery bank under $10

    Model 1 Model 2 There was another one from the UK but on second look it appears it's just a rebranded China model. So I guess that just leaves 2 4xAA battery bank designs dominating the ebay landscape (excluding different colours).
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    Awesome Older Tech Gadgets

    * Sony Hi-MD. (MiniDisc). MiniDisc always had a near-flawless cartridge design and great chemistry. It's a pity that Sony killed it and allowed Apple to take over. This is what happens when you buy CBS and start to focus on anti-piracy rather than cool usable technology. * DVD-RAM in cartridges...
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    best 4x AA USB battery bank under $10

    It's 2016. Have the enthusiasts reached consensus on the best 4x AA USB battery bank under $10 USD? (no batteries included) I know Ni-MH rechargeables don't get enough attention in battery banks due to their less energy density than Lithium-Ion but I am amazed at how little attention they get...
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    Fluke 15b and 17b?

    Nice update :) I forgot to mention that one of the MAIN reasons that added to my lust for this meter was the AA batteries it uses. I really dislike products with 9V batteries which aren't that common to find rechargeable and are relatively expensive when buying disposables (people still do...
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    Fluke 15b and 17b?

    I have the Fluke 17B and it is a good meter as far as I can tell, and it feels solid. Ordering from China (Dealextreme) should be OK. It comes with a manual which has English and comes supplied with a thermocouple. Just keep in mind that the accuracy is rated less than the higher-end Fluke...
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    Why so many 3 x AAA lights?

    Have to disagree here. Do you have to be a flashlight enthusiast to keep one or two sets of batteries charged and ready? I don't think so. But if you are thinking in terms of loss of power for days, aren't you already one? :) For a headlamp, it's easy to run on many hours on one set to cover...
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