Quick question regarding tailcap current.

Flashlight Modding and DIY Parts
1

Hello folks.

I recently found a Romisen RC-C8 on ebay in the UK brand new, for about half the price it would cost from China - Bounus!

It arrived in 2 days, and the quality is very nice.

I have a question... I am currently running 3xAAA, and it doesn't appear particularly bright. The battery pack is sitting at 3.8v without load, and on high I am measuring approx 350mA at the tailcap. Now I am fairly new to this area, but if the Vf of the LED is not far off of that of the batteries, and the torch *claims* to have a regulated current of 800mA, should my measurements be closer to this value?

Just thinking out loud really. Might mod this light anyhow, as I really like the feel of it but not too keen on the beam pattern.

2

You have to multiply that by 3 (I think).

3

What batteries are you using? NiMH or Alkalines? If later, don't expect them to be capable of delivering any high current, try Eneloops instead.

4

Try single 14500 if it will fit.

5

Sorry, should have mentioned. It's running from 3 x AAA GP Recyko LSD NiMHs.

I'm not too concerned about the brightness, it's just that having measured the current, I wanted to understand the relationship between the voltage and current at the battery and at the driver.

6

Forgot to update this thread.

Tried an 18650, and got nearer the mark at about 700mA.

This is by far the feeblest light in my collection. A Sipik SK68 clone on 14500 destroys it - hell, it would probably still outshine it on 1 AA.

I'm thinking it might be worth trying to find a single mode driver which will push about 1.5A. That or give it away to a friend.

7

direct drive it with 3 nimh AAA