Suggestions for filling 9 - AA pack for use with high draw Mag85 MOD

[Databyter]

I'm wondering what batteries would be best used in the 9 AA pack to drive this Mag85 MOD.

The usable runtime is only going to be about 30 minutes as it is with this hungry 1185 bulb.

I want to maximise runtime and reliability while minimizing loss.

It's been years since I wasted any time reading about rechargables and I know the scenery changes fast in that tech.

I saw some neat threads about the new enelopes but wouldn't they be a bit underpowered for this application runtime wise?

Thanks in advance.

 

[45/70]

I saw some neat threads about the new enelopes but wouldn't they be a bit underpowered for this application runtime wise?

I think eneloops would be OK for an 1185. As I remember an 1185 draws a bit less current than an ROP. The name brand 2500-2700's would probably work as well. Some disagree with me on this, but if I were you I'd run Elite 1700's. You may sacrifice a little runtime, but they'll make it brighter and whiter throughout the run than the other choices.

Dave

 

[Illum]

Eneloops have held the 1185 draw well, I have two mag85s in service, they have seen no quantifiable issue with eneloops

 

[Chodes]

My experience has been at around 3A , you won't get the claimed 2000maH of the Eneloop. I'd say it's the best cell for the job though.

You should average around 3A. So that's theoretical 40 minutes on the eneloops. So count on 30 minutes run time (as you said) and some dimming in the last 10 minutes.

If you want a hot rod pack , Elite 1700s. You could just use the Elites , I'd prefer Eneloops if I could only have one.

You said "maximize reliability"
Therefore Eneloop wins.
I believe they will maximise run time too, despite any 2500 -2700 claims.
Not sure what you meant about the "loss"

 

[VegasF6]

I can't say if you will get the runtime you would like, though I have been happy with mine. But, I will tell you the Eneloops will hold up to the current draw easily. In fact, watch for insta-flash. I refer you to my thread.
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=2742872#post2742872

 

[Hill]

Mike,

I had (and just sold) a 3D mag85 that was powered by 9AA 2000 mah eneloops in a 9AA FM adapter. I found them to give more power compared to some 2500 mah duracells. My vote would be to go with the Eneloops, or if you can find them, get the precharged Duracells (make sure they are made in Japan), also known as "Duraloops" from a local store like Target or Walmart. They are so named because they are simply repackaged eneloops.

A word of caution----check out Luxluthors' destructive incandescent bulb test. Do not run the light with all 9AA fresh off the charger or you will blow (flash) your bulb! Best to run with 9AA + dummy cell until the voltage drops into the "safe" zone (~11.5 volts I think).

I agree, this is an expensive hobby, and it get's worse I'm afraid, especially during the learning curve time (I've blown several emitters and drivers). True it may be cheaper to buy something already built, but where's the fun in that??

Hill

 

[Databyter]

Looks like I'm going to go with the Enelopes (or the Duralopes). I'm glad I asked! Better to be thought a fool than to NOT ask and BE a fool..
Thanks for referring to that thread also Vegas, gave me some good input also.lovecpf
I want to see what I can find on store shelves for this part of my quest, shipping is killing my budget.

The suspense is killing me I have bought all this and NOTHING has arrived yet but it's only one day.:tired:

PR base to bi-pin socket (G4) $16

2X - Bi pin WA1185 Bulb $12

9AA to 3D Battery Pack $39

Cammed Black vlop $45

Total (Fivemega) $121 Shipped



Borofloat® Lens $11 Shipped



Smart Charger (9.6 - 18V CHun 180) $40 Shipped

Grand Total so far $172 Shipped

This doesn't include host light or batteries.

After reading a few threads I realized that for the Mag85 I'm not going to worry about internal stock resistance much except for possibly a good cleaning. a bit of resistance will be fine and possibly more safe.

For my LED mods however with the pretty much lifetime runtimes and no flash danger I'll be looking for a way to bypass or improve the switch resistance of a M@g.