The need for a portable light source can arise at the most unexpected moment. In such a case, it is important to have a reliable and efficient flashlight on hand that will provide visibility in the dark for a certain period of time. There are different designs of such devices, including both universal and specialized ones. Recently, the technology of lighting systems has advanced significantly, so hand lamps have acquired new options. In addition, manufacturers are introducing more and more advanced light sources and batteries into designs, which also improves the performance of this product.
Key Features of Hand Torches
The performance of flashlights is usually expressed in terms of luminous flux performance. In particular, emit radiation power, which is indicated by lumens (Lm). Entry-level models typically provide beam power in the range of 3 to 5 lumens, while a powerful handheld flashlight for special applications can range from 100 to 150 lumens. The next important characteristic is the voltage that ensures the operation of the light source. This value is determined by the elementpower supply and varies on average from 1.5 to 4 watts.
In addition to the characteristics of the luminous flux, design data should also be taken into account. Depending on the purpose, the flashlight may have special protection against moisture and high temperatures. You should also pay attention to the mass, which usually varies between 300-400 g. True, hand-held flashlights for professional tasks can have more massive designs weighing up to 1 kg.
Types of light sources for flashlights
The oldest source for flashlights of this type is an incandescent lamp. Today, such models have practically dropped out of the manufacturers' lines due to low efficiency and low working life. They were replaced by halogen counterparts, which have a longer service life and a brighter glow. The most valuable product of this kind in terms of operational parameters is the LED hand lamp, which has a wide range of advantages. First of all, this is durability, expressed in tens of thousands of hours of glow. The advantages of the luminous flux of such models are also noted - for example, they have the highest color rendering index. But LEDs also have disadvantages. This is a high cost, which, however, is offset by the reliability and resistance of the flashlight to mechanical stress.
Optical systems
The concentration of the light flux depends on how the optics are implemented. It is worth noting that cheap models do not have such systems at all, since their light source is simplysinks into the bottom of the case. More advanced devices are equipped with mirror reflectors that orient the radiation in one direction. Also, such modifications can be equipped with focusing lenses. The modern market offers models with two types of reflectors - textured and smooth. If you need a bright hand lamp with uniform dispersion, then you should refer to models with reflectors of the first type. The second option is preferable if you need a large range of light supply. True, the high concentration of the beam increases the requirements for centering in the reflector.
Case designs
In the traditional version, the body of the lantern has the following elements - a base, a head and a shank. The batteries are included in the base, which also acts as a link between the optics and the shank. The head part contains the light source itself, optical elements, and, in some models, the driver. By the way, this is the most critical part, especially if the controls are also concentrated in it. The shank is responsible for the ergonomics of the design. Most often, hand lamps are controlled using buttons located in this area. Elements for fixing the device can also be provided here. When choosing a model according to the case, it is important to take into account the materials of manufacture and the level of protection against moisture. The simplest devices are usually made of plastic, while professional and some amateur modifications may include high-strength steel with titanium in the design.
Operating modes
In most devices, such add-ons are completely absent. Special operating modes are more often implemented in special and professional models. More common are the functions of a strobe and an SOS signal. In the first case, the flashlight automatically flashes at a certain frequency, and in the second, a light signal is provided in Morse code. In addition, a hand-held professional flashlight can also have an instant-on function. This means that the user will be able to activate the device with minimal impact on the start button. In this case, there may be other ways to turn on the light - for example, by turning the head.
Batteries
The flashlight with a built-in battery is considered the most efficient and productive today. Typically, such devices are charged from the network, without disassembling the design. The most common nickel-metal hydride elements are presented in different sizes. They can be replaced at the end of their service life, but in such a way that the new component matches the old one in terms of power. Most often, a hand-held rechargeable flashlight is supplied with electronic filling in the form of the above-mentioned driver. This addition allows you to stabilize the luminous flux, also changing its brightness. Battery models are still in demand. These are entry-level flashlights, which usually have enough power of 1.5-3 watts. Such elements are presented in different sizes - from low-power disk batteries to the so-called finger batteries. AAA format components.
Conclusion
Despite their modest dimensions, modern flashlights can have a rather complex device. This is evidenced by the introduction of high-tech electronic filling and reflectors, as well as the use of wear-resistant materials in the design. In addition, hand lamps can be supplied with additional accessories. Already as standard, many manufacturers provide several filters and diffusers to scatter light. The development of optics with the ability to adjust the light flux also contributes to the expansion of functionality. These and other characteristics make the handheld flashlight a truly useful, reliable and versatile device.
