cheap chinese video light review

[the_jaguar]

this is what I've been buying.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805798616900.html?spm=a2g0o.order_detail.order_detail_item.4.7decf19cWazo6h&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa

but its the $68 version without the batteries.

Thanks - how has it been working out? Do you get a couple of years usage at least? Also, none of these models are constant lumen output products, right? As in, the lumens go down as the battery discharges, instead of the ones from Kraken, etc that are constant output.

 

[lermontov]

this is what I've been buying.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805798616900.html?spm=a2g0o.order_detail.order_detail_item.4.7decf19cWazo6h&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa

but its the $68 version without the batteries.

ive had 3 of these, 2 lasted about 3 dives 3rd on is still going- hopefully youll haver better luck

 

[the_jaguar]

ive had 3 of these, 2 lasted about 3 dives 3rd on is still going- hopefully youll haver better luck

no refunds/replacements, etc, I presume?

 

[lermontov]

no refunds/replacements, etc, I presume?

well i was asked to send it back at my cost and then to send money for postage to get it replaced-I'll never buy this brand again

 

[MikeHoncho]

1

 

[MikeHoncho]

What light is that a knockoff? The thing is about the knockoffs, is that they are copies with similar nearby factories where workers get swapped. So they become in essense the same product.

I have no idea

 

[MikeHoncho]

Thanks - how has it been working out? Do you get a couple of years usage at least? Also, none of these models are constant lumen output products, right? As in, the lumens go down as the battery discharges, instead of the ones from Kraken, etc that are constant output.

I have no idea. I have one dive on the set up and hoping to get another in the next week or so. With the set up I have, the next failure point is either a O-Ring failure (easily checked) and a electronic failure. Electrical failure is kind of low risk given it is used for 2 hours (two dives) once every couple weeks. Even with a electronic failure, at $70 each, I can go through 5-6 to match the cost of a "non-chinese" comparable.

 

[LeopoldToth]

Hi again,

I've ordered a new one from Ali, but I still want to fix my old torch.
I'll start debugging by removing all unnecessary parts, switches etc.

Is there any schematic available or do I need to draw it myself?
Is there anyone who knows what controller circuit is used? Mine has no text on it at all, totally unmarked 14 pin IC.

 

[MikeHoncho]

Hi again,

I've ordered a new one from Ali, but I still want to fix my old torch.
I'll start debugging by removing all unnecessary parts, switches etc.

Is there any schematic available or do I need to draw it myself?
Is there anyone who knows what controller circuit is used? Mine has no text on it at all, totally unmarked 14 pin IC.

Take the buttons out and see if there is water intrusion. If there is then remove the ring that holds the lens in and unscrew the heat-sink plate to see the large circuit board. If there isn't water damage on that then I would plan on replacing the switch with a reed switch or pezo and fill the hole in with epoxy. I would remove the switch for the blue/red lights all together and fill them in with epoxy. I know you can completely remove the circuit board the switch is soldered too and the ribbon wire is soldered too and connect a reed switch directly to the ribbon wire.