LED Flashlight Blog

Flashlights today are brighter and more efficient than those of the past thanks to the introduction of new technologies in bulbs. Lower energy demand also means the use of less battery power which translates into smaller and lighter-weight flashlights.

Light emitting diodes are the light source in an LED flashlight. Because of their size and capability, they are used in promotional items (especially those that blink), traffic lights, overhead office lighting, and signs. Flashlights and other hand-held items are a great place to use diodes because of the LEDs’ durability and the increase in the life of the batteries. LEDs work because of the diode–a semiconductor electronic component that contains two electrodes, also called terminals, that generate light when electricity runs through them. Each diode contains a semiconductor chip and a reflective cup and are housed in a clear or colored epoxy. They attach to a socket via two terminals, one anode (flowing into) and the other cathode (flowing out of). LED flashlights are flashlights that have replaced the traditional bulb with a light emitting diode.
There are many advantages to using an LED light source. LEDs last longer, are more reliable and use much less energy. Because they are housed in a plastic coating, they are much sturdier and respond to being dropped or abused without breaking like an incandescent bulb might. Because they operate at such low temperatures, their shelf life is many times more than a traditional bulb. Turning them on and off causes minimal wear and tear. One of the disadvantages is susceptibility to damage by static electricity. More importantly, the intensity of an LED can cause eye damage if looked at directly by unprotected eyes. Never stare directly into an LED flashlight.

With so many flashlights around, from the LED flashlight to the shake flashlight to the rechargeable flashlight, it becomes hard to know what exactly is available, where, and for how much. Read on to learn how to find and buy the flashlight.
Make a list of all potential uses for your new flashlight. Perhaps it will be used only in power outages. A lot of people use flashlights for doing work around the house. Do you tinker around in cramped quarters? Will you take it camping or outdoors? All of these factors can help you determine what kind of flashlight to buy. Keep them in mind as you make decisions regarding bulb type, power source and body style.
Choose what style of bulb fits your needs best. The bulb is the heart of the flashlight and determines brightness and range. Incandescent bulbs are the most common. These bulbs are cheap and provide adequate light. However, they can break easily if jostled or dropped. Because of that, many people are turning to LED flashlights. LEDs are praised most for their energy-saving abilities. Again, think about use. If you need a flashlight sporadically, go with an incandescent. If you’re more concerned with long-lasting light, choose an LED. You’ll also want to test out the flashlight’s range.
Decide what kind of batteries you want your flashlight to use. Most standard flashlights will use two to three C or D alkaline batteries, which are relatively cheap and definitely easy to find. Other choices include lithium batteries or rechargeable batteries. There are even solar-powered flashlights. The newest trend is “forever flashlights,” which don’t use batteries or lightbulbs. A tiny generator, activated by shaking the flashlight, powers it. Because nothing ever needs to be replaced, these flashlights are a good choice for someone who uses flashlights often.

Determine the style and size of flashlight you want. Flashlights can be made out of plastics or metals, which affects weight. Think of use. If you’ll be toting your flashlight outside or up ladders, you’ll want something compact and lightweight. For big jobs where a lot of light is needed, try a lantern style flashlight. Some people even prefer headlamp-style flashlights. Pen lights or mini flashlights are great for some projects and can be hooked to your keychain so you can always find them.