Hey all,
Quick update! I've further improved the performance of this build - again this build was designed to be a primary test vessel for my GXB172 50W Single Cell Boost Driver.
First, I swapped out the optics. Originally this used an Orange-Peel reflector. However, for those who are familiar with Nichia 144 LEDs, you may know that the phosphor on the die appears to be fairly un-uniform. As a result, the center of the beam is typically much yellow then the outside. In order to fix this, I replaced the OP reflector with a TIR 45-degree honeycomb optic with suggestion from Texas_Ace. Thanks for the tip!
The result is a much more uniform beam and a very very pleasing tint! This really transformed the output of the light! The only downside is a slight drop in OTF lumens, but with a much better quality flood beam.
Details for different TIR optics here: https://budgetlightforum.com/t/-/26270
Next, I also improved the tail-switch by adding in:
- My single milli-ohm FET tailswitch (GFS16)
- An additional battery-sensing LED tailcap light
- Swapped the clicky switch to a stainless steel one.
The tailcap light has the added feature of changing colours (in this case from Blue to Red) when battery voltage drops below 3V, and turns off completely when battery voltage drops below ~2.7V.
For more information about my GFS16 tailcap system, please see this thread: https://budgetlightforum.com/t/-/50404
Still working on the GXB172 but so far it's seen some improvements in both thermal regulation and overall features :)
As usual, more to come soon!