Quik-Brite small-area lights at Big Lots!

Skibane

Enlightened
Joined
Nov 26, 2002
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285
Location
San Antonio
Picked up a 10-pack at Big Lots earlier this evening, for exactly $9.00. Was originally tempted to order a set by mail after seeing their TV advertisement last year, but am now glad that I waited! :D

The set includes 8 "Quik-Brite" lamps (magnet-activated), and two "Bonus Swivel Spots" (essentially, miniature tap-lights). Each of the lights uses 3 LR44/AG13 alkaline button cells to operate 2 white LEDs (in the case of the "Quik-Brites") or 1 white LED (in the case of the "Swivel Spots").

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The "Quik-Brites" use a small, rectangular, adhesive-backed bar magnet to activate a reed switch inside the light, which in turn uses a pair of transistors to drive the LEDs - Seems like tech overkill, but works OK. Basically, you stick the magnet on one side of a cabinet/closet/drawer door, and stick the "Quik-Brite" immediately next to it, on the other side. Separating the magnet from the light turns on the LEDs. There is no time-out - The LEDs run until the either the magnet returns, or the batteries die.

Lacking a reed switch, the "Swivel Spots" (on the left, below) are activated by pressing firmly on the front lens - pressing again turns them off. The LED is mounted inside a hinged stalk, which can be either flipped up to direct the light in a specific direction, or can be be flipped down to diffuse the light into the front lens. A small "lazy susan" bearing on the back of the light allows the entire light to be rotated 360 degrees.

qb1.jpg

Both light designs are pretty slick, but are hindered by QC problems - My kit had 4 magnets missing, and one of the lights had been running for an indefinite amount of time when the package was opened. (Interestingly, after an hour of rest, the almost-dead batteries recovered enough to produce near-new brightness).

BOTTOM LINE: Great concept, with so-so execution. Definitely worth the cut-rate price . At the original selling price...eh, maybe...
 
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