Banggood got button top ones and now idk where else to order them…. I know with a small mod by remove those plastic rings can let the flashlight take flat top batteries. But I like to keep my stuff as they are from factory if nothing is broken…
ordered nichia version, hope new driver will solve all the problems
Any more info on the new led wiring? So we’re currently in the 2nd batch if I’m not mistaken? New led wiring will be the 3d batch then?
How difficult would it be for a noob like me to replace the driver, if I practice some soldering first? I’d like to get started on some electronics projects, and this looks really tempting. If it is too advanced, I would be happy to pay someone to do it.
Would these drivers be available loaded with the caps, resistors and chips? I’d be able to solder the wires, but have never worked with such small componnents.
Lexel could probably solder some led wires to the driver for you, then you’d route the wires through the center hole and solder the ends to the led board. There is easy access as seen in this picture.
I know the wiring is different, but it should still be 6 solder joints minimum. It would be easy for a novice, but if you’ve never done it before, practice a little first.
Built and tested.
Thanks, that’s about what I was expecting. I usually pick up new skills pretty easily, but like PBWilson I wouldn’t dare to try and add any components to as circuit (yet).
Boss is not in office, i can't get hold of him. I have not seen the actual updated unit yet, but i was told that all units sold from Oct 9 onward would be from 2nd batch with new LED wiring.
The way Lexel does it is called reflowing. It’s like making a pizza. Lol
You apply a little solder paste to each pad, then place each component into position. Then you put it in an oven for a very specific time/temperature cycle. Then boom, they are all soldered.
There are reflow videos on YouTube. You should check out a couple that shows the componentS moving into position. It’s really neat.
Thanks. That’s interesting. You mentioned there would be a minor output bump of like 200 lumens or so I believe, and there would be less heat at the same time for the second batch. So who knows there is a major driver re-design with a boost driver. Honestly, if there is such a difference, testing the new batch and comparing to the first one would be really nice as well. :partying_face:
I know these are flat tops, but does anyone have any experience with this Brand?
I don’t see a good reason why anyone should consider these. For the same, or even less money, you can get genuine Samsung 30Q cells.
I noticed that Matt (from Adventure Sport) has got some videos on reflowing LEDs. Really enjoyed his Giggles video (and the self built camping lantern one), so I’ll be giving him some more views! 
Ordered 10/12 and shipped 10/13, Thanks freeme .
Ah well, Royal Mail 48 hours haven’t received mine yet from Banggood EU/UK, despite 2 1/2 days waiting for it from their centre in Birmingham. So I’m not going to have it in my hands for at least another week (business travel next week). Thought I might have had it by tomorrow. Maybe someone else will be first to report on what might have changed, before then.
Reflowing leds on mcpcb’s is pretty similar. Here, check this link. It’s pretty cool.
Ooh I like that - fresh chips in the oven!
Continuing the story from here: ENEDED - #1483 by FreeMagenta
Another reply from the Banggood.
They asked me to check the batteries…
… AGAIN.
Either I am totally stupid and the battery charge - within Li-Ion limits - can cause the driver to malfunction - or they didn’t bother to look at the movies I sent to them, just issued a ‘general troubleshooting response’.
Maybe they are just waiting for me to fix it myself and don’t bother them…
…I am really disappointed with BG for handling the light. First, the phantom tracking code, now - this.