IMR Soft-Start query

[gallagho]

I'm thinking of joining the IMR set, by purchasing a MEGALENNIUM-B 3x18650 and using it with the FM1909 bulb.

Just wondering do I need a soft-start with this setup? Or will the McClicky
be OK?

I have been using my 1185 setup without a Soft-Start by ensuring I don't use cell hot of the charger, am I likely to have a similar amount of risk of with the IMR setup or greater?

Can I even use a soft-start, presumably there quite some amperage with the IMR rig?

TIA

 

[hoongern]

I'm thinking of joining the IMR set, by purchasing a MEGALENNIUM-B 3x18650 and using it with the FM1909 bulb.

Just wondering do I need a soft-start with this setup? Or will the McClicky
be OK?

I have been using my 1185 setup without a Soft-Start by ensuring I don't use cell hot of the charger, am I likely to have a similar amount of risk of with the IMR setup or greater?

Can I even use a soft-start, presumably there quite some amperage with the IMR rig?

TIA

The FM1909 is quite a hardy bulb, set to run at the higher voltage of 11.4V (20hr life), compared to the 1185 which [equivalently] goes at 10.4V (20hr life). The 1185 flashes at 12.3V, while the 1909 flashes at 13.0V.

As such, you can hit it with 3xIMR18650 just fine. A soft-start would help to increase bulb life, but shouldn't be necessary.

I have a 2D Kiu/tailcap mod build with 3xIMR26500. With cells fresh off the charger @ 4.2V, I can run the 1909 without issues, although these days I tend to only charge to 4.1V at the expense of some runtime.

On the other hand, the same build with cells charged to 4.1V and rested for a day *poof* the 1185.

 

[alpg88]

A soft-start would help to increase bulb life, but shouldn't be necessary.

+1

 

[flashfiend]

+ another 1.

Also 3x18650 IMR should be considered the minimum for the FM1909 to really shine. I was not impressed with my results with 18500IMRs.

 

[Billy Ram]

I can tell you the 1909 bulb will hold up ok but the McClicky won't last long @ 5.5a.
Billy

 

[mrartillery]

I can tell you the 1909 bulb will hold up ok but the McClicky won't last long @ 5.5a.
Billy

Very good point, go with the soft start!