-connection inside maglite head...(divelight)

[Oshamo]

When you build divelights you normally have the batteries in a cannister. I´m building a backup light with the batteries inside the battery tube, like a normal flashlight. To make it waterproof I have cut of the switch section and have glued the switch module inside the tube (without the switch). The idea was to turn on the light by twisting the end cap.

And now to the problem... I need to connect the -wire inside the head. Easy I thought, just sand a spot and solder it on...but it seems to be impossible to solder on alu. Do any of you have a solution?

 

[Packhorse]

No you cant solder to Aluminium (easily) so forget it.

I would also forget the twist to turn on idea. Its an invite for a flooded dive light.

A Maglite head is too big for a backup light. Try an IST light instead. They respond well to modding.

If you really want to use a self contained Maglite dive light then how about a piezo switch on the tail cap or a reed switch . Both will require more electronics for them to work though.

 

[DonShock]

One solution I've seen used in the past is to run a wire under the snap ring that normally acts as a stop for the switch. You need to sand off the anodizing in the groove and you can't use too large of a wire, but it does keep pretty good contact.

 

[Oshamo]

Packhorse: I like the piezo idea, but I think they need some sort of circuit board and my electronic skills are very limited. Can you explain how to do it?

DonShock: the snap ring is gone with the switch section, so I have to find another way to attach the -wire.

 

[Packhorse]

http://www.divematrix.com/showthread.php?p=39420

This link should provide you with food for thought.

 

[Oshamo]

Very interesting! But I am not able to transform the schematic drawing of the circuit to anything usefull. Do you have a link to "piezo circuit for absolute dummies" ?

 

[Packhorse]

Thats about as dumified as it gets.
Tell you what buy me a piezo switch and I will build you the circuit.:twothumbs

 

[Oshamo]

Tell you what buy me a piezo switch and I will build you the circuit...

Thanks! That is very nice of you!
I have tried to find such a piezo contact here in Denmark, where I live, but I can only find them in places that do not sell to civilians like me. Can you recommend a netshop that will sell this switch to me?

 

[darkzero]

As a last resort, you could always use electrically conductive epoxy. I've used it with great results. Be sure to mix both parts evenly & well to get best results. As with all epoxies, be sure to roughen up both surfaces to be joined. Cures faster if heated.

I use the one from Circuit Works but MG Chemicals also makes it.

 

[cmacclel]

You can use an internal snap ring.

Mac