This question is specifically in relation to the Apex 5T6 (from CN Quality Goods) but also pertains to any other flashlight that may be suitable, and the questions is:
With the existing 3 mode (L-M-H) 5 x XML driver in it, can a separate (and smaller) 1 mode driver be installed to run in conjunction with it to provided a “boosted” higher output in all three modes?
My thoughts: The existing driver has been proven to only deliver around 1.2 Amps per LED on High setting. If its possible to add an extra (separately wired single mode) driver that might say add 1 Amp per LED to the setup, then all three modes would be driven to 1 Amp higher … meaning the High would be 2.2Amps.
These are all theoretical questions and examples - just wondering if its doable and if that’s how the drivers would work if run in conjuction with each other? I don’t have the knowhow or expertise to modify the existing driver myself … so just looking for the cheapest possible option to achieve a brighter output.
Thanks for any thoughts or suggestions!
Cheers
d337944
In general, if you have to ask, it’s probably not a good idea.
Specifically, each driver was only designed to see the emitter as the load, with two (or more) drivers, each not only sees the emitter but also every other driver which the designer did not plan for.
for buck or boost drivers, it would probably be a terrible idea, but for a current sink linear regulator like the AMC7135 based boards it might work. Either way, a better and simpler plan would be to install a driver that can supply the current you want on boost, but let you run it at stock current when you want.
What I’m learning is basically it won’t or it “probably won’t” work, depending on the drivers used.
Good to know - I won’t spend any effort experimenting then, as my free time is very limited (too busy working!). I’ll keep looking for an appropriate replacement driver.
i dont believe a suitable replacement driver exists for this light or the SR king for that matter. The LEDs are wired parallel, so you need a driver with Vout ~3.6V.
Piggy backing multiple 7135 driver chips will work, but this light doesn’t use that configuration.
I think your best bet is to tinker with the current sense resistors and boost current through the parallel LEDs.
