Background info for Newbie

[BigGuy]

I am new here and am looking for information to help me get started building some flashlights. Can you recommend some links or threads or articles to help me understand the big picture and others with tips on execution? I have read the McLux DIY guide and will study it closely before beginning.

I have ordered an e1, e2, and e3 bodies from Balrog which should arrive in a couple weeks. Any thoughts on a moderating challenging strategy?

Thanks
Scott

 

[NewBie]

I'd prefer if you don't probe my background too much. Though there is alot of it you'll not find anything about...

(/me points to topic)

 

[B@rt]

 

[BigGuy]

I apologize for using your name. Just tell me where I should send the copyright infringement money. I assume you and lawyers accept PayPal.

Come on -- give me some help!

Thanks
Scott

 

[NewBie]

There are lots of them, especially Mag mods. Search through the old posts on the board, you'll find more than you can shake all ten fingers at.

Are you looking for mods or from scratch projects? Are you more mechanical or electrical?

 

[BigGuy]

I'm looking for from scratch projects. I guess what I need most is some theory and tips for soldering the LEDs, emitters, and converters.

Other than asking or copying what has already been done (which are both excellent approaches), how can I know which Luxeons are best/most appropriate with, e.g, a BB700.

Also, how do I learn the differences, i.e. advantages/disadvantages, of McLux PR, PR-T, L1 heads?

Thanks again.

 

[zapper]

Since you've already ordered those bodies, heads and that board then the best choice would be a LUX III emitter. I mostly mod other lights (cheap ones) just in case I screw it up it doesn't hurt much. It's also a good way to learn how to creatively use the space available from different flashlights. Heat management is by far the biggest concern therefore all metal bodies (normally aluminum) is your best bet initially as you have already started. The Star on a 1 watt is sufficient if you keep the current below spec fo 350 mA (~100 mA is fine). If there is plenty of contact with alot of heatsinking then drive away (still not over 600MA though). I actually push about 550 mA through most of mine but they are sinked out big time. I also do it to one in a plastic body but it has a monster slug hidden behind. Probably the most common mod uses a Mag of 2 or 3 cells in either C or D configuration. Here's the Mag site for dissasembly Mag Disassembly Now, here is THE MAN HIMSELF "Mr. BULK" /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bowdown.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/buttrock.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink2.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/clap.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/party.gif on how to Build a SPACE NEEDLE! Basically the same for most Mag mods. Heres another really good one Mag with NFLEX board Good luck, a big welcome and let us now how it goes. Here are a few I did Zappers Stuff and album

 

[BigGuy]

Thanks Zapper. That information is helpful. Actually the only thing that I have ordered are the three bodies. I probably will order one of those heads? [Do you have any recommendations there?]

As for the heatsink issue, say I am going to build a 2X123 light with an aluminum body and 3 or 5 W Luxeon, would I need a separate heatsink. If not, I guess it is a function of a good fit and conductive grease. In general, how often are separte heat sinks used and do you have any advice there.

Thanks. I apologize for my ignorance, but I'm trying.

Scott

 

[zapper]

No apoligies necessary, everyone pretty much starts out the same. The LED has to be mounted on something that will transfer heat to the body efectively over a good surface area. Be it a hotlips in a Mag or a copper sided pcb for a minimag with either thermal grease or thermal epoxy or your own creation. After that you have to look at the heat to be disapated. The more power (1W<3W<5W)the thicker (more surface area) the light needs. Looks like you have a good start. I'm sorry I can't recommend a head for you to try. Search around some old posts for that, there are quite a few.