V11R light vibrating/pulsating

Ibex

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Oct 11, 2012
Messages
16
I purchased a new V11R a few weeks ago and used it lightly. I am using AA battery with extender. I just noticed that the light start vibrating or pulsating very fast as the brightness is increased closed to max. the pulsating is only very short range and stops as I past that point either going higher or lower in output. The battery is new and fresh.

Is this normal? Is it the battery? Do I need to send it back?

Thank you.
 

HotWire

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Mar 9, 2011
Messages
1,651
I use my Sunwayman V11R with RCR123 batteries and have never had any flickering problems. I don't have the extension tube, so I can't try an AA battery. You might try a 14500 battery or revert back to the shorter RCR battery to test it. Be sure to clean all contacts you can reach in the flashlight. A dirty contact can make lights flicker.
 

Ibex

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Oct 11, 2012
Messages
16
I am pretty sure it is a flashlight :)

I tried a new AA battery but the flickering is still in the same spot as I increase the variable control ring. I guess I can go and purchase a 14500 battery and give it a try.

Not sure.
 

louie

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Aug 31, 2002
Messages
1,106
Location
Seattle
My VR11 does the same thing, pulses with an AA alkaline as it nears maximum output (but not max ring rotation). I feel it's a normal side effect of the control circuit's ability to handle a wide range of battery current. AA Alkalines are the lowest, along with NIMH, lithium RCR123, and 14500, and max being the IMR IIRC. I am guessing that the alkaline voltage fluctuates more that the other chemistries at higher current draws, and the circuit tries to adjust for that. I can get a brief flicker with an Eneloop but no pulsing, and no problem (and much brighter) with a Zebralight 14500 or AW RCR123. Note also that you reach max light output at various places on the ring, depending on the power in the battery. I haven't tried IMR cells to get the rated 500 lumens, and get max output before the ring rotation ends.

Consider going with RCR123 - smaller, lighter, much higher output. I take my extender ring on trips, so I have the option to run on AA in an emergency.
 
Joined
Mar 7, 2007
Messages
644
Same here and I carry a AA NiMH when I travelling for the same reason. This AA possibility plus the infinite variability make the V11R an excellent travel light IMV.


I take my extender ring on trips, so I have the option to run on AA in an emergency.
 
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