Continuous current capacity

[Jon_L]

Would someone please tell me if six alkaline "C" cells in series can provide enough continuous current to feed three low Vf Lux III's in series?

I've been lurk'n and search'n for many days but remain unsure.

Since battery capacity, voltage characteristics, and current draw capability are so fundamental to CPF's urge to the max, would it be possible to have some central resource with this data for all battery sizes and chemistrys?

 

[cy]

welcome to cpf jon

3X nmh C cells would be perfect for Direct drive for 3x kbin vf luxeons.

 

[tvodrd]

Welcome Jon_L,

What you describe will work ok, even with J voltage bin. I think alky C's are ok with the 1/4A or so draw you should see. You will be underdriving the LEDs, but with 3 of them you'll get a useful amount of light for a very long time. Again, welcome!

Larry

 

[evan9162]

[ QUOTE ]
Jon_L said:
Would someone please tell me if six alkaline "C" cells in series can provide enough continuous current to feed three low Vf Lux III's in series?

I've been lurk'n and search'n for many days but remain unsure.

Since battery capacity, voltage characteristics, and current draw capability are so fundamental to CPF's urge to the max, would it be possible to have some central resource with this data for all battery sizes and chemistrys?

[/ QUOTE ]

Not likely. With exceptionally low Vf Luxeons, you'll maybe get 200-250mA with fresh batteries, and current will drop from that point on.

 

[Jon_L]

Thanks much for your interest, guys. I may be trying to build beyond my ability, but was thinking of using a boost circuit which would fully use the batteries, provide whatever current the LED's wanted, and might allow brightness control.

Was unsure though, if internal resistance of the C cell batteries could pass 2 to 3 amps.

Thanks again, Jon
(who, 3 weeks ago wouldn't dream a flashlight could be this complicated)