Compact lights with a powerful luminous flux based on diodes are highly appreciated by ordinary users, and are also common among professionals. For example, due to the ergonomic design, they can be used as equipment for builders and rescuers. And lovers of extreme tourism use LED lights because of their reliability and stability of bright radiation.
Designated Varieties
The scope of the device determines its operational and structural features. The most common type is the household model. This is a conventional diode flashlight that provides a medium-light output that integrates 1 to 10 miniature lamps. The next most popular category is tourist models. They are not always distinguished by high qualities of the luminous flux, but without fail have increased resistance to external influences. Enclosure class is a basic characteristic of this type of model. In particular, IP64-67 classes are considered optimal for using the device in extreme wildlife conditions. It is worth noting the narrow focus of individual modifications. For example, a rechargeable LED flashlight "Cosmos" in the performance of 3W CREE is designed for use by divers - in addition to super-bright radiation, it is completely protected from water entering under the casing. As for professional flashlights, they are designed for use in construction (optional addition of power tools), in rescue activities (headlamp and long battery life), etc.
Design Varieties
The simplest household models most often have a manual case - that is, it does not require special installation and makes it possible to move in the hand. The already mentioned head-on models are found in different categories - it can be a tourist lamp, both household and construction. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that the user completely falls off from additional manual manipulations during operation. This is also a portable LED flashlight, which can be used offline. But there are stationary lights on diode elements of light radiation. These include floodlight models that provide decorative lighting, and the so-called tent modifications. They can be called mobile, but not manual. With such a lamp, temporary illumination of a camping or work site is organized.
Varieties by type of food
Most modern flashlights operate on battery power. This solution is convenient in that after a 30-60 minute charge, the user gets the opportunity to use the device for many hours and even daily, anywhere regardless of 220 V network access. Moreover, you can also charge such models from a car cigarette lighter. Usually, a lithium-ion block is used as a battery, although professional rechargeable LED flashlights can also be equipped with polymer analogues, since they are more reliable and more stable in returning currents. Do not leave the manufacturers and the battery system. The use of elements AA and AAA is advantageous in that they initially give a longer period of operability of the flashlight. However, in terms of savings, they are more expensive than battery devices.
LED light specifications
In the choice, the first step is to evaluate the luminous flux - how much it is able to meet the requirements of the brightness of lighting. This value is measured in Lumens (Lm). So, a household model for an evening walk can provide a stream with a brightness of 20-100 Lm, but professional needs often require stable maintenance of brightness at 1000 Lm. Next, the number of LEDs should be taken into account. As mentioned above, the simplest flashlights are equipped with 1-10 diodes. But as power increases, their number can increase to 50 pcs. The brightest LED lights have in their composition not only a large number of diodes, but also are characterized by a high degree of brightness - from 500 to 1000 Lm. These are models that are close in performance to stationary floodlights. By the way, multifunctional flashlights support the ability to adjust the luminous flux. This indicator is set on a scale of 10 to 50% on average. The flow shape is also adjustable - the beam can concentrate or scatter.
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of building tools, travel agencies, and, of course, specialized manufacturers of lighting elements are involved in the development and production of flashlights of this type. In particular, the companies Bosch, Dewalt, Einhell, etc. can be noted. In the Russian segment, the brands "Bright Ray", the aforementioned company "Cosmos" and "Era" are popular. Moreover, the products cover almost all categories from household to professional. So, the LED flashlight "Era" in the modification FA19M is intended for amateur use - on vacation or on the road. At the same time, it is provided with 19 diodes and provides a powerful luminous flux. As for the cost, it varies from 200 to 500 rubles. in the case of household models and from 1000 to 2000 on average - in the professional class.
Pros and cons of LEDs
LED lamps themselves provide many advantages, including a high degree of brightness, energy saving, long life and compactness. Most operational ergonomic benefits only indirectly relate to diodes. Manufacturers develop convenient, functional and well-protected designs for such flashlights, trying to combine several effective solutions at once. Therefore, LED lights at this stage in the development of lighting technology are at the top of technological progress. At the same time, the weak spots of the LEDs remain. These include a narrow color spectrum, mandatory integration of control circuits (controllers) into devices and high cost.
Conclusion
The use of LEDs is more likely to pay off in special operating conditions. Where a high brightness of the light flux is required, the possibility of its flexible adjustment, and with it reliability. Therefore, in professional fields, LED lights are almost no alternative solution. However, at home, the use of such a flashlight may well be replaced by an analogue with an incandescent lamp, for example. This solution will not only cost less, but will also win in some operational qualities - it’s enough to note a more natural glow that is gentle on the eyes. On the other hand, in terms of operating and maintenance costs, it is LEDs that are more profitable in the long run.