Newbie question - first post

[slideways]

I'm new with all that is the world of flashlights but I'm getting hooked. I'm hoping some of you who are more knowledgable will be able to answer some questions.

My "keychain" light is an ARC-LS. It uses the CR123 power pack. ARC offers both single and dual AA power packs. The Punishment Zone reviewed all three power packs and the dual AA was rated at 80500mcd vs 71000mcd for the CR123.

Here are my questions. Is the difference mentioned above in output enough that you'd notice it? What is a mcd? I did a search of all forums but didn't turn up the answers.

This forum has the coolest icons and graemlins.

Thanks up front for any help, AJ

 

[Mr HG]

Welcome to CPF, slideways!

1 cd (candela) is 1000 mcd (milicandela)
I think candela is the same as candlepower, not sure though.
Please correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[Charles Bradshaw]

The Arc Ls can be run with 2 Alkaline or 2 Lithium AAs, and it is noticably brighter with the Lithiums. This is due to the higher voltage of the Lithium AA (1.88 volts before load). You also get double the runtime over CR123A or Akaline AAs. only the Rev1 circuit LS could use 1AA and you get 7 hours of light in that mode. Same but brighter in 2AA Lithium. 3 - 3.5 hours with Alkaline AAs or CR123A (rev1).

The hybrids, rev2, and LS2 get shorter runtimes. (now called LSL for the low dome, and LSH for the high dome, as opposed to LS1 rev2 and LS2 respectively.) Each comes in standard and Premium brightness grades. The standard packs now are TSP-123 and TSP-2AA for the Kroll clickie built into the tail.

 

[JollyRoger]

There isn't really a HUGE difference in noticeable brightness b/w the ARC w/ the 123 pack or the AA (using alkalines). Given how small the 123 package is, I'd stick with that (and you're already using it, too!)