Question about ARC4 semi-tac mode

[machulu]

I've been using the semi-tac mode for a few weeks now and it seems to be a very effective way to carry the light without accidental activation. Even so, most ARC4 users still seem to demand some sort of lock out or switch guard... why is this? Am I missing something? Is there any drawbacks to the semi-tac mode that anyone has experienced?

~Stephen

 

[stockwiz]

I just want a switch guard if there is the possiblity of it having a keyring on it for use with keys. I agree with you, the semi tactical mode is the way to go, especially with the fact that the light learns how fast your click speed is.

 

[carmel]

I agree also; I use the semi-tac mode permanently: since one has to double-click the Arc4 all the time anyway to change brightness settings, it's no hassle. The only reason I will buy the "switch guard," is for the lanyard ring.

carmel

 

[mporter]

I use the semi-tac mode too. But I would also prefer full lockout being available in an easier way, such as 4 clicks.

 

[Fastlane]

I use semi-tac and it is a good switch lock. I do not understand the need for full momentary tac mode. You can just unscrew the head from the body a half turn to make the light inoperative. If you activate full-tac, that is what you have to do anyway to reset so you can use it again.

If a shortage of memory space is a problem for adding features, I would delete some menu items to free it up. Tac modes and the button lock gone in favor of a default switch lock activated without going into the menu and a user settable brightness level and even interval for the locator flash in the menu.

Press and hold for a couple of seconds from off could activate the lock without interferring with other functions, and double click from off to unlock. With that feature, I suppose the need for semi-tac mode is questionable.

Three levels of flash modes in the menu options: SOS same as it is now with High brightness for a distress signal. Medium brightness and medium flash interval or series of double flashes , and current Level 16 locator flash.

The menu would be simplified and less intimidating to many.
Distress SOS, Signal(M), Locate (L), Force Primary, RFS

 

[Mark_van_Gorkom]

Some cell phones have an automatic key lock that turns on when you don't use it for a few minutes; perhaps that would be an option? If changing menu options is a matter of cutting & pasting the relevant lines of code, we may one day be able to pick and choose our own custum menu? Mine would go: Force Primary, Auto Lock, Locate, Adjust Locate Level, Semi-Tac.

And a built in microphone, so it will switch to locator flash (level 1) when you clap your hands twice /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[Psychomodo]

I now use semi-tac mode as a sort of switch guard and it seems perfect for this. The only thing missing from this superb light is somewhere to attach a split ring/lanyard.

 

[Psychomodo]

(I don't like, or use, the clip)

 

[Fastlane]

The automatic lock after so many minutes inactivity is good, so long as the light isn't turned on inadvertantly in your pocket or something during that period. I couldn't think how to accomplish a locator flash level adjustment in the options menu without making separate options since each click in the options menu changes to the next option and double click reverses. I had thought entering the brightness menu from Level 16 would be a way to adjust the locator level, but suggested the three different flash modes as a simpler alternative. Hopefully we get some more ideas here.

 

[Mark_van_Gorkom]

I was thinking adjusting the locator flash could work this way: go to the options menu, select Locator Adjust, after the 4 flashes you go to a seperate "branch" where you can adjust the brightness of the locator flash.