Compact flashlights with powerful diode-based luminous flux are highly appreciated by ordinary users, and are also common among professionals. For example, due to their ergonomic design, they can be used as equipment for construction workers and rescuers. And fans of extreme tourism use LED lights because of their reliability and stability of bright radiation.
Varieties by purpose
The scope of the device determines its operational and design features. The most common type is the household model. This is a conventional LED flashlight that provides a light output of medium brightness, in which from 1 to 10 miniature lamps are integrated. The next most popular category is represented by tourist models. They are not always distinguished by high qualities of the luminous flux, but without fail they have increased resistance to external influences. The housing protection class is the basic characteristic of this type of models. In particular, IP64-67 ratings are considered optimal for using the device in extreme wilderness environments. Here it is worth noting the narrow focus of individual modifications. For example, a flashlightLED "Cosmos" in 3W CREE design is designed for use by divers - in addition to super-bright radiation, it is completely protected from water penetration under the case. As for professional flashlights, they are designed for use in construction (optional addition to power tools), rescue activities (head-mounted design and long battery life), etc.
Varieties by design
The simplest household models most often have a manual body - that is, it does not require special installation and allows you to move it in your hand. The already mentioned headlamp models are found in different categories - it can be a tourist lantern, and a household one, and a construction one. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that the user is completely free from additional manual manipulations during operation. This is also a portable LED flashlight that can be used offline. But there are also stationary lamps on diode elements of light radiation. These include projector models that provide decorative lighting, and the so-called tent modifications. They can be called mobile, but not manual. With such a lantern, temporary lighting of a camping or work site is organized.
Varieties by food type
Most modern flashlights run on rechargeable batteries. This solution is convenient because after 30-60 minutes of charging, the user gets the opportunitymany hours and even daily operation of the device in any place, regardless of access to the 220 V network. Moreover, such models can also be charged from a car cigarette lighter. Usually, a lithium-ion block is used as a battery, although professional LED rechargeable flashlights can also be supplied with polymer analogues, since they are more reliable and more stable in current output. Do not leave the manufacturers and the battery power supply system. The use of AA and AAA elements is beneficial in that initially they give a longer period of flashlight performance. However, in terms of economy, they are more expensive than cordless devices.
LED Light Specifications
In choosing, the first thing to evaluate is the luminous flux - how much it is able to meet the requirements of lighting brightness. This value is measured in Lumens (Lm). So, a household model for an evening walk can provide a stream with a brightness of 20-100 Lm, but professional needs often require a stable maintenance of brightness at 1000 Lm. The next thing to consider is the number of LEDs. As mentioned above, the simplest flashlights are supplied with 1-10 diodes. But as the power increases, their number can increase to 50 pcs. The brightest LED lights have not only a large number of diodes, but are also characterized by a high degree of brightness - from 500 to 1000 Lm. These are models that are close in performance to stationary spotlights. By the way, multifunctional flashlights support the abilityluminous flux adjustment. This indicator is adjusted on a scale from 10 to 50% on average. The shape of the stream can also be adjusted - the beam can be concentrated or scattered.
Producers
Development and production of flashlights of this type are engaged in and manufacturers of construction tools, and travel companies, and, of course, specialized manufacturers of lighting elements. In particular, Bosch, Dew alt, Einhell, etc., can be noted. In the Russian segment, the Bright Luch brands, the aforementioned company Cosmos and Era are popular. Moreover, the products cover almost all categories from household to professional. Thus, the LED flashlight "Era" in the FA19M modification is intended for amateur use - on vacation or on the road. At the same time, it is provided with 19 diodes and provides a powerful luminous flux. As for the cost, it varies from 200 to 500 rubles. in the case of household models and from 1000 to 2000 on average - in the professional class.
Pros and cons of LEDs
LED lamps provide many advantages in themselves, including a high degree of brightness, energy saving, long service life and compactness. Most of the operational ergonomic benefits are only indirectly related to diodes. Manufacturers develop easy-to-use, functional and well-protected designs for such flashlights, trying to combine several effective solutions at once. Therefore, LED lights at this stage of developmentlighting technicians are at the pinnacle of technological progress. At the same time, the weaknesses of the LEDs are also preserved. These include a narrow color spectrum, mandatory integration of control circuits (controllers) into devices, and high cost.
Conclusion
The use of LEDs is more likely to justify itself in special operating conditions. Where high brightness of the luminous flux is required, the possibility of its flexible adjustment, and at the same time reliability. Therefore, in professional areas, LED lights are practically an uncontested solution. However, at home, such a lamp may well be replaced by an analogue with an incandescent lamp, for example. This solution will not only cost less, but will also benefit in some performance qualities - it is enough to note a more natural glow that is gentle on the eyes. On the other hand, in terms of operating and maintenance costs, it is LEDs that are more profitable in the long run.
