Yes, it has been a long time since the mini project was started due to Covid and other issues. But I’m confident that we’re close to wrapping things up. Sorfin has shipped out some prototypes which have arrived at the destination countries. Hopefully they’ll clear customs so that actual testing/feedback can be done.
Had me confused at first. It shipped in "Simple" mode which I never use.
So far, the UI seems to match up well with the Sofirn LT1 Lantern A2 UI diagram from here: https://budgetlightforum.com/t/-/65927, but could be slight changes I didn't come across yet.
First impressions
It sure looks awkward for a lantern - too high. Nice they widened the base to help stabilize it but it's still too tippy for a lantern, specially sitting on an unstable surface, which you can expect when camping. Don't know what they could have done better, but saving every possible mm where possible would help. Maybe a flat brass button on the driver instead of a spring - don't need double springs for a lantern - shouldn't be on a bike or gun for example. I get it though - using a high capacity 21700 is important, but I would have been in favor of widening the body and base even further, keeping in mind keeping it light-weight is important too.
I'm probably far from the best to evaluate these attributes though. Unlike the BLF/Sofirn LT1, the LED's are where you would expect them - just above the driver, below the diffuser. A nice touch is they used an OP reflective surface under the top cap - I would think that would lessen the loss of lumens.
I never opened up the top of the BLF LT1, so just tried a few mins ago. Didn't notice the top hex head nut, so used a strap wrench on the top, and that loosened it, so I then tried unthreading the top - boy, what a mistake. Pulled the 3 wires and their pads right off the MCPCB - :FACEPALM: . It's fixable though - just gotta make new pads, re-solder. I see now how totally different that design is from the Mini. The old LT1's MCPCB is on the top - never expected that. Should have researched/read-up on it first.
I'm unfamiliar with the specs on the Mini, but it seems pretty bright at max. Even our new kitten in a lit room had to wince when looking at it on max.
I'll try to take pics, maybe a quick tear down.
Ohh - the diffuser is unscrewable on both the bottom and top, with an o-ring on each end. I'm thinking it's not something that should be done often - don't think that plastic will hold up well. The MCPCB appears to be aluminum, interesting - haven't seen an alum one used in years, but maybe because it's amp limited, though I hope it's DTP aluminum.