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3 Mode Flashlight driver for 445 build?

Polonium210

Polonium210

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Hi All,

After completing my first 405 build I am now attempting to build my first 445 M140 build into a Small Sun host.

I really like the idea of having a 3 mode driver like the one that is already in the Small Sun. I will be powering it off of one 18650 3.7v cell. Is it possible to use this driver to drive a 445?

From what it looks like to me this driver appears to be a linear driver and to change the current I would have to switch out the two 1ohm resistors following the 1.25/R=mA rule? :thinking:

I have a small metal lathe and have already machined a heat sink and inserted the Aixiz module with a 445 diode pressed in. All I need now is the driver:D

Let me know what you guy's think, this is only my second build ever
:thanks:

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Blord

Blord

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Not all linear drivers follow the 1.25/R=mA rule. The LM317/117 does but I am not sure about this driver. Did you measure the actual current from the 3-mode driver with a testload ? Maybe the current is already good for a 445nm diode.
 
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benmwv

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You can't power a m140 with one cell from that. You need a boost driver.
 
Polonium210

Polonium210

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So I have to scrap the 3 mode driver idea and go with something like the flexdrive?

Well maybe I will use this driver with a 405.
 
Sigurthr

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With a very low dropout linear you could probably run a 650nm diode from one cell, but I think that is about it. Happy reading!
 
benmwv

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Measure the current of the driver on a test load.

I imagine it's about 1A and should work well for one of the 300mw 635 diodes.
 
rhd

rhd

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You could always just use 2x 16340s (or 2x 18350s).

Generally, unless it's the absolute tightest host, you can fit the above combinations wherever a single 18650 will go. Reason:

- They make 18650 hosts capable of handling slightly longer than standard 18650s, since many cells are now coming with protection circuits that add length.
- So, even though 2x 16340 are 3mm longer (in theory), if you go unprotected, you'll have some extra margin, and it should all fit.
 
Polonium210

Polonium210

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I thought of using two Tenergy CR123's. Will the stock 3 mode driver handle double the intended voltage?
 
rhd

rhd

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Polonium210 said:
I thought of using two Tenergy CR123's. Will the stock 3 mode driver handle double the intended voltage?
Click to expand...

You haven't even linked us to the host, so who knows ;)

If you link us to the original light, there might be some info about the driver. But otherwise, we're just guessing.
 
rhd

rhd

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Polonium210 said:
I purchased it off eBay so there was not much info on it except that it has a 3 mode driver and runs off a single 18650 cell. Most likely the driver can take a higher voltage but the LED only needs the single cell.

http://http://www.ebay.ca/itm/260883916571?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649#ht_1686wt_689
Click to expand...

Some flashlights will say 1x18650 or 2xCR123 (16340). When they do, it's almost certain that they'll be fine for 445s driven from two cells. The only real different between a 445 and the LED, is that the 445 drops more voltage - which actually is better for the driver if it's a linear one, since there's less voltage for it to drop. Even a buck driver is probably happier driving a 445 from two cells than it would be driving a LED.

However, yours doesn't say that 2x CR123 (16340) are alright - so all you can do is test (with a test load).
 
Polonium210

Polonium210

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I am the proud new owner of a $50 LED :wave:

I tested the driver on a dummy load and got 960mv on my scope.
It did work for a few minutes and was damn bright!

Oh well, it was a learning experience.... :cryyy:

I think I will try a flex drive instead.
Does anyone sell these here? Or is fleabay my only option?
 
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rhd

rhd

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Polonium210 said:
I think I will try a flex drive instead.
Does anyone sell these here? Or is fleabay my only option?
Click to expand...

I think I'm going to cry.

But, if you're set on using a flex, at least get it from someone on the forum, not eBay. Try DTR, Flaminpyro, or (maybe?) Jayrob. I know the first two sell them. Not 100% sure if Jayrob does. All three are good sources to buy from :)
 
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